| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09342052B2 |
System for attaching a wristlet strand to a case
Wristwatch including a case in or on which there is arranged a first open housing, a wristlet provided with one end arranged in the first open housing, and a fastening means for holding the end of the wristlet in the first housing. The fastening means includes a second housing opening onto the first housing and a fastening element arranged in the second housing and occupying one part of the first housing. The wristwatch further contains a means of retaining the fastening element. |
| US09342050B2 |
Illuminated timepiece display device
A watch includes a mechanical timepiece movement that includes at least one timepiece display device including a mobile timepiece component. The component transmits and diffuses light emitted by at least one light energy source included in the display device. The component is formed of a first material which is silica, or quartz, or single crystal quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramic or material partially transparent to visible or ultraviolet wavelengths, or a transparent or translucent at least partially amorphous material, and of at least a second phosphorescent or fluorescent material applied in a thin layer to at least one of surfaces of the component. The light source, which is active or passive, injects light into one portion of the component which conveys and diffuses the light over at least one portion of the component, or throughout an entirety of the component, to make the component visible in the dark. |
| US09342046B2 |
Process cartridge including plate configuration with inner and outer side plates that allow for attachment to image forming apparatus
A process cartridge and an image forming apparatus are provided. The process cartridge is detachably mountable in an apparatus body of the image forming apparatus, and includes a plurality of photosensitive drums, a first outer side plate which is provided on one side of the photosensitive drums in an axial direction of the photosensitive drum, a second outer side plate which is provided on the other side of the photosensitive drums in the axial direction, and opposes the first outer side plate with the photosensitive drums interposed therebetween, and a plurality of input parts which are provided on ends of the photosensitive drums at the one side, respectively. An end face of each of the input parts being provided inward with respect to the outer surface of the first outer side plate. |
| US09342045B2 |
Image forming apparatus having fixing unit detachably mountable to a main assembly of the apparatus
An electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes: a main assembly; and a fixing unit. The main assembly includes an advancing-and-retracting member capable of advancing and retracting in a direction substantially perpendicular to a mounting direction of the fixing unit, and includes an urging member configured to urge the advancing-and-retracting member in an advancing direction. The fixing unit includes an engaging member engageable with the advancing-and-retracting member. The engaging member includes i) a retracting portion configured to retract the advancing-and-retracting member against an urging force of the urging member with a mounting operation to the main assembly, and ii) permitting portion configured to a) permit advance of the advancing-and-retracting member by the urging portion with a further mounting operation to the main assembly and b) receive a force for moving the fixing unit in a mounting direction by the advancing-and-retracting member. |
| US09342043B2 |
Unit assembly and image forming apparatus
A unit assembly (10) is provided with an image forming unit (20) and an intermediate transfer unit (40), and is configured to be capable of being inserted into and removed from an apparatus body (110). The image forming unit (20) has first processing units (200A to 200D), developing units (4A to 4D), a positioning portion, and a link member (80). The positioning portion is provided in each of the developing units (4A to 4D) and determines the mutual relative positions of the developing units (4A to 4D). The link member (80) links the developing units (4A to 4D) to each other. The intermediate transfer unit (40) is held by the image forming unit (20). |
| US09342041B2 |
Developing cartridge having drive-force receiving member
In a developing cartridge, a drive-force receiving member includes: a first cylindrical part having a gear part transmitting drive force to a developing roller; a second cylindrical part disposed radially inward of the first cylindrical part and in contact with a support part; and a receiving part receiving drive force from outside of the developing cartridge. The receiving part is disposed outward of the first and second cylindrical parts in an axial direction in which a rotational axis extends. The receiving part has an internal space in communication with a gap between the first and second cylindrical parts. The receiving part is disposed to overlap the gap between the first and second cylindrical parts when the receiving part is viewed in the axial direction. The receiving part has an outward end in the axial direction, at least part of the outward end of the receiving part being closed. |
| US09342036B2 |
Image forming apparatus with a pair of resin and metal frames
An image forming apparatus, including a main body and a driving force transmission, is provided. The main body supports an image forming unit which includes an image carrier. The driving force transmission transmits a driving force to the image carrier. The main body includes a first frame, a second frame, and a connecting member. The first frame is made of resin, disposed on one side of the image carrier with regard to a direction of rotation axis of the image carrier, and supports the driving force transmission disposed thereon. The second frame is made of metal and disposed on the other side of the image carrier with regard to the direction of rotation axis. The connecting member connects the first frame and the second frame with each other. |
| US09342034B2 |
Cleaning device and image forming apparatus using same
The intermediate transfer belt cleaning device includes a cleaning blade for removing residual toner on the intermediate transfer belt, a waste toner conveying screw that conveys the removed toner, and a vibrating part with multiple vanes, arranged between the cleaning blade and the waste toner conveying screw, each vane partly coming into contact with the waste toner conveying screw and vibrating in linkage with the motion of the waste toner conveying screw. Each vane has a projected part that is positioned close to, and projects toward, the intermediate transfer belt. |
| US09342032B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a time setting unit that sets a print allowable time according to the amount of advance payment, a usage time count unit that counts a usage time and a print allowance determination unit that determines, from the time setting unit and the usage time count unit, whether printing is allowed or prohibited. Before the time counted by the usage time count unit reaches the print allowable time, the print allowance determination unit allows the printing to be performed whereas after the time counted by the usage time count unit reaches the print allowable time, the print allowance determination unit prohibits the printing from being performed. |
| US09342024B2 |
Image forming apparatus
In an image forming apparatus, a sensor section includes a sheet path through which the sheet passes in a sheet feeding direction. In the sensor section, a light source unit emits light to an irradiation area set in the sheet path. Here, the light is elongated in a main-scanning direction and has quantities of light varying according to positions in the main-scanning direction and according to positions in a height direction perpendicular to a sheet feed surface. In addition, in the sensor section, a light-receiving section receives light diffused in a predetermined diffusing direction among the light emitted from the light source and then irradiated to the sheet passing in the sheet path and outputs information representing quantities of the received light. In the image forming apparatus, a control section extracts a parameter from the information and derives an amount of curl of the sheet. |
| US09342020B2 |
Printing apparatus using technique to handle error in finisher, control method therefor, and storage medium
An image forming apparatus which uses a printing control technique for, even when a third-party finisher whose performance is unknown is connected to the image forming apparatus, realizing a sheet-feeding judgment with consideration given to the performance of the finisher and preventing degradation of working efficiency. When an error notification is received from a post-processing apparatus, a type of a sheet discharged to the post-processing apparatus is identified. The identified type is managed as a type of a prohibited sheet prohibited from being discharged to the post-processing apparatus. |
| US09342015B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an optical detecting device; a movable unit including a rotatable member having a first light-blocking surface and a second light-blocking surface; and a control unit. The movable unit rotates with rotation of the rotatable member so that the second light-blocking surface is movable to a first position where the optical detecting device is light-blocked and a second position where the optical detecting device is not light-blocked, and includes a locking member for locking the second light-blocking surface in the second position. When the first and second light-blocking surfaces pass through a detecting portion of the optical detecting device, the control unit discriminates a state of the movable unit on the basis of a detection result of the optical detecting device. |
| US09342013B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus including same
According to the present disclosure, a fixing device includes a belt member and a heating device. The heating device is configured to heat the belt member. The fixing device further includes two terminal portions. The two terminal portions are electrically connected to a detector configured to detect a resistance value of the belt member, a value of a current that flows when a predetermined voltage is applied to the belt member, or a potential difference that occurs when a predetermined current is made to flow in the belt member. The two terminal portions are also contacted, on a one-to-one basis, by end-portion regions at both ends of an inner circumferential surface of the belt member in a belt-width direction of the belt member. |
| US09342009B2 |
Image fixing device
A fixing device configured to fix an image on a recording material, includes: a rotary member including an electroconductive layer; a coil which has a spiral shaped portion and is disposed in the inside of the rotary member; and a core disposed in the spiral shaped portion; with magnetic resistance of the core being, with an area from one end to the other end of the maximum passage region of the image on the recording material regarding the generatrix direction, equal to or smaller than 30% of combined magnetic resistance made up of magnetic resistance of the electroconductive layer and magnetic resistance of a region between the electroconductive layer and the core. |
| US09342006B2 |
Belt member, fixing device, and image forming apparatus including the same
Provided is a belt member used in a fixing device of an electromagnetic induction heating system. The belt member includes an endless resin base layer, heat layers, and an insulating resin layer. The heat layers are two or more layers including a non-magnetic metal stacked on the resin base layer. The insulating resin layer is an insulating layer stacked between the heating layers. |
| US09342004B1 |
Heating device, fixing device, and image forming apparatus
Provided is a heating device, including a transparent belt that travels along a determined path, a first transparent member that comes into contact with an outer circumferential surface of the belt to form a nip at a first position in the belt, and an irradiating section that irradiates a beam which reaches a second position which comes into contact with a heating-target member and differs from the first position in a circumferential direction of the belt via the transparent member and the nip. |
| US09341996B1 |
Hub-based drive coupling mechanism for a fuser backup member and methods of using same
A hub-based drive coupling mechanism for a fusing assembly, including a gear operatively coupled to a motor; a hub member; and a backup roll having a shaft rotatably coupled to the gear via the hub member, the gear including an outer cylindrical portion having a plurality of tabs disposed along an inner surface thereof, the hub member including an annular portion having a plurality of protrusions radially extending therefrom, and the backup roll shaft having a pin member. The gear rotates for a first fraction of a revolution without rotating the hub member and the backup roll due to the tabs of the gear not contacting the protrusions of the hub member, and rotates for a second fraction of the revolution with the hub member due to contact between the tabs and protrusions, but without rotating the backup roll. |
| US09341992B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes first and second forming units that form first and second to-be-transferred images and first and second not-to-be-transferred images with first and second toners, respectively, the first toner containing a metal pigment; a transfer body to which the first and second to-be-transferred and not-to-be-transferred images are to be transferred; a transfer member that transfers the first and second to-be-transferred images to a recording medium at a transfer nip between the transfer member and the transfer body; and a removing member that removes, with an electrostatic force, the first and second toners forming the first and second not-to-be-transferred images from the transfer member. In a transfer mode, the first not-to-be-transferred image is transferred to a position that do not overlap the recording medium to be introduced into the transfer nip after the first not-to-be-transferred image when seen in a direction of introduction of the recording medium. |
| US09341991B1 |
Deskewing mechanism for an intermediate transfer belt module and imaging drums in an electrophotographic printer
An electrophotographic printer having an intermediate transfer belt (ITB) module having an endless belt wrapped around a first and second roll and a plurality of imaging drums, all mounted in a frame between a rear panel and an access panel pivotally mounted to the front panel. The first and second rolls lie in an ITB reference plane and the imaging drums lie in an imaging drum reference plane that is mutually planar to the ITB reference plane. A camming device, mounted to one of the front panel and the access panel, rotates the access panel to provide a skewing adjustment to ITB module and plurality of imaging drums to substantially correct a skew error caused by the racking of the front panel with respect to the rear panel with the access panel maintaining mutual planarity between the ITB reference plane and the imaging drum reference plane. |
| US09341986B2 |
Developing device, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge
A drawing-up magnetic pole and a control magnetic pole of a magnetic field generator that is disposed in a developer carrier are adjacent to each other and a prevention member is provided that secures, between the prevention member and an upper end of a side wall of a developer supply conveyance path, a supply path through which a developer in the developer supply conveyance path passes toward the developer carrier at least over the entire width of a developing area and that prevents a control retained developer, which is prevented by a developer control member from passing through a control gap, from moving toward the surface of the developer carrier along lines of the control magnetic force. The peak of the magnetic flux density of the drawing-up magnetic pole in the normal direction is disposed below the lower end of the supply path. |
| US09341983B2 |
Developer accommodating unit, developing device, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A developer accommodating unit for accommodating a developer includes: a flexible container provided with a plurality of openings for permitting discharge of developer. The openings are formed and arranged in a longitudinal direction of the developer accommodating unit. The openings have opening areas such that with respect to the longitudinal direction, the opening area of the opening provided at an end portion is larger than the opening area of the opening provided at a central portion. |
| US09341982B2 |
Component movement mechanism for an image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus may include a photosensitive member, a developing device including a developing roller, pressing members configured to engage with the developing device and springs configured to urge the pressing members. In some examples, each of the pressing members may be configured to contact and move the developing device between various positions based on the urging of the springs. Additionally or alternatively, various ends of a contact surface of the developing roller configured to contact developer may be disposed relative to an axis line of the developing roller and pressing surfaces of the pressing members. |
| US09341979B1 |
Closed loop focusing system
A system for focusing light including a gradient index lens array positioned at a first distance from a surface, and first and second positioning elements arranged to modify the first distance. The first and second positioning elements modify the first distance based on an analysis of an image formed on the surface across substantially a full width of a cross process direction of the surface. |
| US09341969B2 |
Toner for electrostatic development, image forming device using same, and image forming method
Toner for electrostatic development in accordance with one aspect of the present invention contains toner base particles produced by subjecting a toner composition containing binder resin, a coloring agent, and wax to melting and kneading and thereafter pulverization and classification, the toner having a volume median particle diameter (D50) of 5.5 to 7.5 μm, and the toner having particle size distribution in which the toner base particles include 15 to 55% by number of toner base particles of not more than 5 μm in particle diameter, and include not more than 1.5% by number of toner particles of more than 10 μm in particle diameter. |
| US09341964B2 |
Process for producing electrophotographic photosensitive member
In a process for producing an electrophotographic photosensitive member, in particular, a process of forming a charge transporting layer, a production process is provided by which the stability of a charge transporting layer coating fluid even after its storage for a long time is improved so as to form a coat for a charge transporting layer having a high uniformity. In a process for producing an electrophotographic photosensitive member having a charge transporting layer on a support, a production process is used in which a coat of (i) a liquid dispersion comprised of particles containing a charge transporting material, particles containing a binder resin, and an aqueous dispersion medium, or (ii) a liquid dispersion comprised of particles containing both a charge transporting material and a binder resin, and an aqueous dispersion medium, is formed on the support and then the coat is heated at a temperature not less than the melting point of the charge transporting material to form the charge transporting layer. |
| US09341961B2 |
Cross technology reticle (CTR) or multi-layer reticle (MLR) CDU, registration, and overlay techniques
Methods for reducing reticle transmission differences and for optimizing layer placement for overlay in MTRs and CTRs are disclosed. Embodiments include providing a reticle having a prime area and a frame area surrounding the prime area; determining RT differences across the prime area; and providing RT adjustment structures on the reticle to decrease the RT differences. Other embodiments include grouping multiple layers of a semiconductor production flow, the layers for each group having an RT difference less than a predetermined value; and placing the layers on plural ordered reticles of a reticle set, each reticle having multiple image fields, by selecting, for each reticle, layers from a single group and optimizing placement of the layers for overlay. Other embodiments include selectively rotating image fields on a reticle having multiple image fields to improve overlay, or optimizing placement of DDLs on CTRs by placing each design orientation on a different reticle. |
| US09341960B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
An exposure apparatus having a projection system configured to project a plurality of radiation beams onto a target and an image slicer. The image slicer is arranged in an inverted configuration such that, if an input image formed of a plurality of separated image regions were provided to the image slicer, it would output an output image formed from the plurality of image regions, each arranged to adjoin an adjacent image region. The exposure apparatus is configured such that each of the radiation beams is input into the image slicer at a location corresponding to a respective one of the separated image regions. |
| US09341959B2 |
Substrate holding device, exposure apparatus, and device manufacturing method
To provide a substrate holding apparatus which can prevent a liquid from entering into a rear surface side of a substrate. A substrate holding apparatus is provided with a base material, a first holding portion formed on the base material for holding the substrate, and a second holding portion formed on the base material for holding a plate member by surrounding the circumference of a processing substrate held by the first holding portion. The second holding portion holds the plate member so as to form a second space on the side of the rear surface of the plate member. On the rear surface of the plate member, an absorbing member is arranged for absorbing the liquid entered from a gap between the substrate held by the first holding portion and the plate member held by the second holding portion. |
| US09341958B2 |
Deflection mirror and projection exposure apparatus for microlithography comprising such a deflection mirror
A deflection mirror (1, 501, etc.) for a microlithography projection exposure apparatus for illuminating an object field in an object plane of the projection exposure apparatus (1067) using the deflection mirror with grazing incidence. This deflection mirror has a substrate (3, 503, etc.) and at least one layer system (5, 505, etc.), and during operation light impinges on said mirror at a multiplicity of angles of incidence, wherein the layer system is designed such that, for light having a wavelength of less than 30 nm, for an angle of incidence of between 55° and 70°, the variation of the reflectivity is less than 20%, in particular less than 12%. |
| US09341956B2 |
Spatial light modulator unit, illumination optical system, exposure device, and device manufacturing method
According to one embodiment, a spatial light modulator unit is used in the illumination optical system for illuminating an illumination target surface with light from a light source and comprises: a spatial light modulator with a plurality of optical elements arrayed in a predetermined plane and controlled individually; a spatial light modulation element which applies spatial light modulation to the incident light from the light source and which makes rays of intensity levels according to positions of the respective optical elements, incident on the plurality of optical elements; and a control unit which individually controls the plurality of optical elements on the basis of information about the intensity levels of the rays incident on the respective optical elements. |
| US09341953B2 |
Microlithographic illumination system
A microlithographic illumination system can include a light distribution device that can generate a two-dimensional intensity distribution in a first illumination plane. A first raster array of optical raster elements can generates a raster array of secondary light sources. A device with an additional optical effect can be disposed spatially adjacent to the two raster arrays. The device can be configured as an illumination angle variation device. The device can influence the intensity and/or the phase and/or the beam direction of the illumination light. The influence can be such that an intensity contribution of raster elements to the total illumination intensity can vary across the illumination field. This can enable the illumination intensity to be influenced across the illumination field in a defined manner with respect to the total illumination intensity and/or with respect to the intensity contributions from different directions of illumination. |
| US09341951B2 |
Wynn-dyson imaging system with reduced thermal distortion
A Wynn-Dyson imaging system with reduced thermal distortion is disclosed, wherein the reticle and wafer prisms are made of glass material having a coefficient of thermal expansion of no greater than about 100 ppb/° C. The system also includes a first IR-blocking window disposed between the reticle and the reticle prism, and a second matching window disposed between the wafer and the wafer prism to maintain imaging symmetry. The IR-blocking window substantially blocks convective and radiative heat from reaching the reticle prism, thereby reducing the amount of thermally induced image distortion in the reticle image formed on the wafer. |
| US09341947B2 |
Resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A resist composition including a polymeric compound having a structural unit derived from an acrylate ester containing a lactone-containing cyclic group having a group represented by general formula (a0-r-1) on the side chain and optionally having the hydrogen atom bonded to the carbon atom on the α-position substituted with a substituent: in formula (a0-r-1), Ra3 and Ra4 each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a non-aromatic hydrocarbon group optionally having a substituent, provided that Ra3 and Ra4 are optionally mutually bonded to form a ring with the carbon atom bonded to Ra3 and the nitrogen atom bonded to Ra4; and * represents a valence bond. |
| US09341943B2 |
Pellicle for lithography
There is provided a pellicle having a frame 12, a film 11 and an adhesive 13 for bonding the film 11 to the frame 12, and this adhesive 13 is a silicone compound having a low outgassing tendency and high heat resistance; in a better mode case, it can maintain its adhesive strength at temperatures 100-200 degrees C. and it exhibits results of TML being 1.0% or lower and CVCM being 0.1% or lower when tested in accordance with ASTM E595-93; thus this pellicle is useful for EUV light exposure lithography. |
| US09341942B2 |
Vacuum chamber assembly for supporting a workpiece
A chamber assembly (26) for providing a sealed chamber (40) adjacent to a workpiece (28) to counteract the influence of gravity on the workpiece (28) includes a chamber housing (244), and a seal assembly (33) that expands and/or contracts to better seal against the workpiece (28). Further, the chamber assembly (26) can include one or more transducer assemblies (34) that expand or contract to quickly respond to leaks or injections of fluid in chamber assembly (26) to maintain a constant and stable chamber pressure in the chamber assembly (26). Moreover, the chamber assembly (26) can utilize a pressure source (35) that directs a lager amount of fluid (374) through a fluid passageway (368) to accurately maintain the pressure within the chamber assembly (26). |
| US09341932B2 |
Light emitting device, super-luminescent diode, and projector
A light emitting device includes a laminated body having an active layer, a first cladding layer, and a second cladding layer, the active layer constitutes an optical waveguide, the optical waveguide includes a first portion connecting a first exit section and a first reflecting section to each other, a second portion connecting the first reflecting section and a second reflecting section to each other, and a third portion connecting the second reflecting section and a second exit section to each other, and a current density in the first portion and a current density in the third portion are higher than a current density in the second portion. |
| US09341925B2 |
Rig for multi camera shooting
Disclosed herein is a rig for multi-camera photographing. The rig for multi-camera photographing includes a cover frame, a center base plate fixed and installed in a center line over the cover frame, and a left rotational movement plate and a right rotational movement plate disposed on the left and right sides of the center base plate and disposed in such a way as to rotatably move around rotational movement shafts protruded over the cover frame. |
| US09341920B1 |
Pulsed fiber laser wavelength convertor
A wavelength convertor includes a beam splitter which splits a pulsed laser beam at wavelength λp into a first higher power pulse portion and a second low power pulse portion. A fiber super continuum (SC) generator is coupled to receive the second pulse portion which converts the second pulse portion into a SC pulse having a bandwidth of >100 nm including a narrow spectral portion at wavelength λs. An optical parametric amplifier (OPA) having a periodically poled material is included with domains arranged to provided quasi-phase matching for amplification at λs and pumping at λp. The arrival of the SC pulse portion at λs and the first pulse portion at the OPA is synchronized to overlap in time. The OPA is seeded by the SC pulse portion at λs and pumped by the first pulse portion to provide an amplified OPA seed at λs. |
| US09341918B2 |
Liquid crystal optical device and image display device
According to one embodiment, a liquid crystal optical device includes an optical unit and a control unit. The optical unit includes a first substrate unit, a second substrate unit, and a liquid crystal layer. The first substrate unit includes a first substrate having a first surface, and first elongated electrodes provided on the first surface. The second substrate unit includes a second substrate having a second surface opposing the first surface, first opposing electrodes provided between the first and second substrates and a second opposing electrode provided between the first and second substrates. The liquid crystal layer is provided between the first and second substrate units. The control unit is electrically connected to the first elongated electrodes, and the first and second opposing electrodes. The control unit implements a first operation of forming a first voltage distribution and a second operation of forming a second voltage distribution. |
| US09341914B2 |
Variable reflectance mirror reflective element for exterior mirror assembly
A variable reflectance mirror reflective element for a vehicular exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a front substrate and a rear substrate, with an electrochromic medium disposed therebetween. A mirror reflector is disposed at a third surface of the rear substrate and includes a stack of thin films and has a sheet resistance of less than about 5 ohms per square. Light that reflects off of the mirror reflector and passes through the electrochromic medium and the front substrate exhibits a substantially non-spectrally selective reflectance characteristic to a person viewing the exterior mirror reflective element when no voltage is applied to the electrochromic medium. At least a portion of the mirror reflector extends out under the seal towards a perimeter edge of the rear substrate. An electrical connection, which may include a conductive epoxy, is made to the portion of the mirror reflector outboard of the perimeter seal. |
| US09341913B2 |
Nanostructured transparent conducting oxide electrochromic device
The embodiments described herein provide an electrochromic device. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrochromic device includes (1) a substrate and (2) a film supported by the substrate, where the film includes transparent conducting oxide (TCO) nanostructures. In a further embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes (a) an electrolyte, where the nanostructures are embedded in the electrolyte, resulting in an electrolyte, nanostructure mixture positioned above the substrate and (b) a counter electrode positioned above the mixture. In a further embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes a conductive coating deposited on the substrate between the substrate and the mixture. In a further embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes a second substrate positioned above the mixture. |
| US09341910B2 |
Electrochromic lithium nickel Group 5 mixed metal oxides
Multi-layer electrochromic structures comprising an anodic electrochromic layer comprising a lithium nickel oxide composition on a first substrate, the anodic electrochromic layer comprising lithium, nickel and a Group 5 metal selected from niobium, tantalum and a combination thereof, wherein (i) the atomic ratio of lithium to the combined amount of nickel, niobium and tantalum in the anodic electrochromic layer is at least 0.4:1, respectively, (ii) the atomic ratio of the combined amount of niobium and tantalum to the combined amount of nickel, niobium and tantalum in the anodic electrochromic layer is at least about 0.025:1, respectively, and (iii) the anodic electrochromic layer exhibits an interplanar distance (d-spacing) of at least 2.5 Å as measured by X-ray diffraction (XRD), comprises at least 0.05 wt. % carbon, and/or has a coloration efficiency absolute value of at least 19 cm2/C. |
| US09341907B2 |
Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display includes: a first substrate, a second substrate facing the first substrate, a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and including liquid crystal molecules, a gate line positioned on the first substrate, a data line positioned on the first substrate and crossing the gate line, a first thin film transistor and a second thin film transistor connected to the gate line and the data line, a third thin film transistor connected to the gate line and the second thin film transistor, a reference voltage line connected to the third thin film transistor, and a pixel electrode including a first subpixel electrode connected to the first thin film transistor and a second subpixel electrode connected to the second thin film transistor. |
| US09341903B2 |
Active matrix substrate and liquid crystal display panel including the same
An auxiliary capacitor (6) of each of sub-pixels (P) includes a transparent electrode, a pixel electrode, and a capacitor insulating film between the transparent electrode and the pixel electrode. Switching elements (5a) are connected, for every predetermined sub-pixel(s) (P) along a column direction of the sub-pixels (P) arranged in rows and columns, to the source lines (15a) different from each other. A plurality of transparent electrodes are each shared by a pair of the sub-pixels (P) which are adjacent to each other in a predetermined direction and are arranged in a corresponding one of the wide spaces each provided between adjacent two of gate lines (13). The transparent electrodes adjacent to each other in the row direction receive different signals. |
| US09341901B2 |
Display device
A display device is provided that inhibits color mixture between adjacent subpixels and allows for obtaining a high-quality image. The display device includes a display area on which a light-blocking metal layer, a black matrix, and a plurality of subpixels are arranged, wherein the plurality of subpixels are arranged adjacent to one another via a black matrix as seen vertically from above, the black matrix and the light-blocking metal layer are arranged to overlap each other as seen vertically from above, and the light-blocking metal layer 130 is arranged on the bank of an organic flattened film. |
| US09341896B2 |
Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display (LCD) including a liquid crystal panel, and a gate driver which applies a gate signal having a driving frequency equal to or greater than 100 Hz to the liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal panel comprises a first display panel, a second display panel facing the first display panel, and a liquid crystal composition disposed between the first display panel and the second display panel and includes liquid crystals. |
| US09341886B2 |
Image display device
An image display device includes a liquid crystal panel section, a light source section divided into a plurality of regions, a light detection section detecting the light intensity of the light source section, and a timing generation section. The timing generation section generates a light emission drive signal which turns on each of the regions of the light source section according to scanning in the liquid crystal panel section, and which turns on all the regions of the light source section in a light detection period, and generates a light detection gate signal allowing the detection of the light detection section to be effective in the light detection period. |
| US09341884B2 |
LCOS device and method of fabricating the same
The present invention provides a LCOS device including a silicon substrate, a first dielectric layer, a first mirror layer, a second dielectric layer, and a second mirror layer. The first dielectric layer is disposed on the silicon substrate. The first mirror layer is disposed on the first dielectric layer. The second dielectric layer is disposed on the first mirror layer. The second mirror layer is disposed on the second dielectric layer. |
| US09341883B2 |
Display module and light guide device
A display module is provided. A light source is configured to provide an illumination beam. A light guide plate has a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and an incident surface connecting the first surface and the second surface. The illumination beam enters the light guide plate through the incident surface. A reflective element is connected to the light guide plate and has a plurality of first reflective surfaces inclined with respect to the second surface. A reflective display unit is capable of modulating a polarization state of the illumination beam to form a modulated beam. The second surface is disposed between the reflective display unit and the first surface. The first surface is disposed between the second surface and a reflective polarizer, and the reflective polarizer filters the modulated beam into an image beam. |
| US09341880B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel and driving method thereof, and display device
In a liquid crystal display panel, as the arrangement of the color filters of the sub-pixel units of every two adjacent pixel units in the row direction, from at least one group composed of two adjacent columns of pixel units in the row direction, is changed, the color filters of two adjacent sub-pixel units in the row direction, which belong to different two pixel units, have the same color; position of the data line connected with the sub-pixel units with color filters of the same color is changed, so that the data line is provided at a side of one of the sub-pixel units with color filters of the same color far away from the other one thereof. Therefore, while the color mixing phenomenon is avoided, a part of the black matrix, which should be provided between the two adjacent sub-pixel units in the row direction, may be omitted. |
| US09341873B2 |
Manufacturing method of a flexible display panel comprising a contact hole formed in a buffer layer
A flexible display panel including a buffer layer, an active element, a pad, a display device and a signal transmission circuit is provided. The active element is located on the buffer layer. The pad is located in the buffer layer and is electrically connected to the active element. The display device is located on the active element and is electrically connected to the active element, in which the display device includes a pixel electrode, an opposite electrode and a display medium layer located therebetween. The active element and the signal transmission circuit are respectively located at a first surface and a second surface of the buffer layer, the second surface is opposite to the first surface, and the signal transmission circuit is electrically connected to the active element via the pad. A manufacturing method of a flexible display panel is also provided. |
| US09341868B2 |
Silicon-based electro-optical device
In a region in which silicon semiconductor layers having first and second conductive types are stacked, a concavoconvex structure including a Si1-xGex (x=0.01 to 0.9) layer is formed on a surface of the first silicon semiconductor layer, a relatively thin dielectric is formed on the concavoconvex structure, and a silicon semiconductor layer having the second conductive type is further stacked. |
| US09341865B2 |
Eyewear having magnetic clip-on lenses
Eyewear according to one embodiment includes a primary frame retainer, at least one primary lens and a clip-on lens assembly removably attachable to the front of the primary frame by magnetic forces interacting between two magnets affixed to the primary frame and the clip-on lens assembly, respectively. The clip-on lens assembly includes a connector affixed to a secondary frame of the clip-on lens assembly. The connector has a hook removably engagable with a recess defined in the primary frame for positioning the clip-on lens assembly with respect to the primary frame. |
| US09341864B2 |
Contact lenses having a reinforcing scaffold
Ophthalmic lenses for correcting refractive error of an eye are disclosed. Ophthalmic lenses include an inner optic portion having a scaffold between an anterior portion and a posterior portion. The scaffold is characterized by a substantially uniform thickness formed from a material characterized by a modulus that his higher than the modulus of the peripheral portion. Openings within the scaffold are filled with a low modulus material. When applied to an eye, the lenses are configured to provide one or more lenticular volumes between the posterior surface of the lens and the cornea. The disclosure further relates to methods of correcting refractive errors of an eye such as astigmatism or spherical aberration using the ophthalmic lenses. |
| US09341863B2 |
Eyeglass hinge assembly
The invention relates to a hinge for connecting a temple arm to an eyeglass frame that may be made up of one or more frame parts. Parts of the eyeglasses, including the temple arm and frame, are interchangeable so the colour, shape and style of eyeglasses can be quickly and easily changed. The temple arm is connected to the frame securely, but in a way that the temple arm can easily be disconnected for interchanging. The temple arm needs to be deformed, bent or moved beyond a normal orientation to allow it to be easily disconnected. In a preferred embodiment, the temple arm hinge assembly comprises a hooked member and a pivot shaft, whereby the pivot shaft comprises a notch or truncation positioned such that the hooked member can only be engaged/disengaged if the temple arm is deformed or the like beyond a normal position. |
| US09341861B2 |
Mobile terminal and controlling method thereof
A mobile terminal and controlling method thereof are disclosed, by which fluctuation of a screen can be reduced. The present invention includes a lens, a lens drive unit configured to move the lens along an x-axis and y-axis which are vertical to an optical axis and a z-axis parallel to the optical axis or to rotate the lens centering on the x-axis and the y-axis, an image pickup unit configured to generate a digital signal by detecting a light having passed through the lens, an image processor configured to create a preview image by applying an image processing to the digital signal, a display unit configured to display the preview image, and a controller, if a distance between the lens and the image pickup unit is shorter than a preset distance, controlling a partial region of the preview image to be outputted through the display unit. |
| US09341859B2 |
3D image based alignment method
An alignment method applied to a barrier-type 3D display includes providing a 3D alignment device at least comprising an image capture tool and an alignment shift analysis software; disposing a display panel with a barrier laminated thereon in the 3D alignment device; presenting a display and a barrier alignment check patterns on the display panel and the barrier; the image capture tool capturing an image of a moiré pattern generated by the display and the barrier alignment check patterns; analyzing the image of the moiré pattern by the alignment shift analysis software, and determining at least three measurement points of the image of the moiré pattern; calculating position shift for each measurement point and rotation angle between display panel and barrier by the alignment shift analysis software; and adjusting corresponding position between display panel and barrier if the calculation results exceed predetermined alignment errors. |
| US09341854B2 |
Slim and compact volumetric 3D display systems based on moving display surface
This invention relates to volumetric 3D display systems based on a rotary reciprocating display surface. Layout of mechanical components and optical path are arranged to provide maximal viewing angle and minimal view-blocking, while keeping the whole system size compact and slim. Motion mechanisms, mechanical relief mechanism and 2-direction dynamic balancing are design to give smooth and quiet motion, while keeping the design simple and cost low. Backing structures and supporting frames for the display surface are designed to minimize deformation and stress in the display surface, while still satisfying requirements in optics and display. Mechanical and optical layout also considers the need for converting among multiple display modes. Image presentation methods for display occlusion effect and black and dark images are devised. |
| US09341851B2 |
Virtual image display apparatus
An observer can observe a video in a state in which the visual line of the observer is caused to overlook the downward side. In particular, in a virtual image display apparatus, even when the positions of the eyes, the nose, and the ears of the observer deviate from standard positions and the observer cannot observe a video in a targeted overlooking direction in a worn state in standard setting, it is possible to change an angle in an overlooking direction with respect to a front direction and cause the observer to perform observation in a suitable visual line by changing, with a nose receiving section functioning as an adjusting section, the posture of the virtual image display apparatus and adjusting an emission state of video light from a light guide member according to individual differences of the observer. |
| US09341843B2 |
See-through near-eye display glasses with a small scale image source
An interactive head-mounted eyepiece with an integrated processor for handling content for display and an integrated image source for introducing the content to an optical assembly through which the user views a surrounding environment and the displayed content, wherein the height of the image source is at least 80% of a display active area width of the optical assembly. |
| US09341841B2 |
Optical scanner, image display apparatus, and head-mount display
An optical scanner includes: a base portion; a light reflecting portion that reflects light; a connection portion that connects the base portion and the light reflecting portion; and a shaft portion that supports the base portion in a swingable manner about a swing axis, wherein the light reflecting portion is disposed so that a geometrical center of the light reflecting portion is separated from the swing axis in a plan view seen in a direction in which the light reflecting portion and the base portion are lined up, and wherein a geometrical center of at least one of the base portion and the connection portion is positioned on an opposite side of the geometrical center of the light reflecting portion with respect to the swing axis in the plan view. |
| US09341836B2 |
Digital microscope apparatus, method of searching for in-focus position thereof, and program
A digital microscope apparatus includes a first imaging unit including a first imaging device and a first optical system including an objective lens configured to enlarge first and second images of a preparation that holds a sample, the first image being formed on the first device through the first system, a second imaging unit including a second optical system that is branched from the first system and has a depth of field larger than the first system and a second imaging device on which the second image is formed through the second system, and a controller configured to calculate a provisional in-focus position of the lens based on the second image, determine an area of the first device, from which the first image is read, and search for, based on the read image, an in-focus position of the lens in a predetermined range based on the provisional in-focus position. |
| US09341827B2 |
Anamorphic objective lens
An anamorphic objective lens comprising, along an optical axis and in order from an object space to an image space: at least a negative (−) spherical first lens group; an anamorphic second lens group and a positive (+) spherical third lens group wherein an aperture stop is located before, after or preferably within the spherical third lens group. Both spherical lens groups contain spherical refractive optical surfaces and the anamorphic lens group contains cylindrical and plano optical surfaces with at least one cylindrical surface oriented at substantially 90 degrees about at least one other cylindrical surface. The negative spherical first lens group may provide focusing. |
| US09341824B2 |
Mobile device and optical imaging lens thereof
Present embodiments provide for a mobile device and an optical imaging lens thereof. The optical imaging lens comprises five lens elements positioned in an order from an object side to an image side. Through controlling the convex or concave shape of the surfaces of the lens elements to allow the thickness of the second lens element and air gaps between the five lens elements along the optical axis satisfying the relation 1.400≦AG34/AG12≦4.615, the optical imaging lens shows better optical characteristics and the total length of the optical imaging lens is shortened. |
| US09341823B2 |
Imaging lens
A compact low-cost imaging lens which meets the demand for low-profileness, offers high brightness with an F-value of 2.5 or less and a wide field of view, and corrects aberrations properly. Its elements are arranged in order from an object side to an image side: a positive first lens having a convex object-side surface; a negative second lens having a concave image-side surface; a negative third lens; a negative fourth lens as a meniscus double-sided aspheric lens having a convex image-side surface; and a double-sided aspheric fifth lens having a concave image-side surface. The aspheric image-side surface of the fifth lens has a pole-change point off an optical axis, and the imaging lens satisfies conditional expressions (1) and (2): TTL/2ih≦0.8 (1) 20<νd1−νd2<50 (2) where νd1: Abbe number of the first lens at d-ray νd2: Abbe number of the second lens at d-ray ih: maximum image height TTL: total track length. |
| US09341813B1 |
Imaging lens module and mobile terminal
An imaging lens module includes an imaging lens assembly and a first optical component. The imaging lens assembly has an optical axis and includes a lens element. The lens element includes an effective optical portion, which is non-circular and disposed on a center of the lens element. The first optical component has a non-circular opening hole. The effective optical portion of the lens element of the imaging lens assembly is corresponded to the non-circular opening hole of the first optical component. |
| US09341812B2 |
Autofocus mechanism with a first and second amplification rate
First and second amplifiers amplify a voltage value of a first signal and generate first and second amplified signals. Third and fourth amplifiers amplify the voltage value of a second signal and generate third and fourth amplified signals. A corrector corrects one of the first amplified signal and the second amplified signal based on a first correction function illustrating a relationship between the voltage value of the first amplified signal and the voltage value of the second amplified signal and generates one of a first corrected signal and a second corrected signal, and corrects one of the third amplified signal and the fourth amplified signal based on a second correction function illustrating a relationship between the voltage value of the third amplified signal and the voltage value of the fourth amplified signal and generates one of a third corrected signal and a fourth corrected signal. |
| US09341807B2 |
Gravitation compensation for optical elements in projection exposure apparatuses
A gravitation compensator for mounting optical elements in a projection exposure apparatus and a corresponding projection exposure apparatus are disclosed. The gravitation compensator at least partly compensates for the weight force of a mounted optical element and simultaneously enables a change in the position of the optical element without the compensated weight force being altered in an impermissible manner during the change in position. This applies, in particular, to high weight forces which are to be compensated. Furthermore, the gravitation compensator enables use in different atmospheres and the compensation of corresponding aging effects. |
| US09341806B2 |
Fan-out subassembly
A fan-out subassembly includes furcation modules mounted to a furcation module holder, which is adapted to be connected to a main component. The furcation module holder includes a cable anchoring location. Each of the furcation modules has a furcation tube mounting insert and a plurality of furcation tubes. The furcation tubes are supported by the furcation tube mounting inserts and have free portions that extend outwardly from the furcation tube mounting inserts and from the furcation module holder. The furcation tubes can hold optical fibers of a cable that extends from the subassembly to a cable spool. The subassembly and the free portions of the furcation tubes can be packaged together until installation. |
| US09341804B2 |
Cable strain relief for cables, in particular fiber optic cables
The invention relates to a means of cable strain relief (1) comprising a crimping sleeve (3) for the mechanical operative connection of a cable (5) to a crimping neck (2), wherein the crimping sleeve (3) is used in the crimped state for clamping a textile braid (7) of the cable (5) intended for stain relief between the crimping sleeve (3) and the crimping neck (2). At its cable-side end, the crimping sleeve (3) comprises a deformable plastic sleeve (4) that produces a mechanical operative connection in the crimped state between an exterior jacket (6) of the cable (5) and the crimping sleeve (3). |
| US09341802B2 |
Telecommunications assembly
A telecommunications assembly includes a chassis defining an interior region and a tray assembly disposed in the interior region. The tray assembly includes a tray and a cable spool assembly. The cable spool assembly is engaged to a base panel of the tray. The cable spool assembly is adapted to rotate relative to the tray. The cable spool assembly includes a hub, a flange engaged to the hub and an adapter module. The flange defines a termination area. The adapter module is engaged to the termination module of the flange. The adapter module is adapted to slide relative to the flange in a direction that is generally parallel to the flange between an extended position and a retracted position. |
| US09341800B2 |
Modular optical fiber distribution hub with multi-row splitter module mounting structure
A modular optical fiber distribution housing is provided. The housing includes a first row of splitter modules and a second row of splitter modules both supported from the inner surface of one of the plurality of walls, and each splitter module is receives an input optical fiber and includes a splitting device configured to split a signal carried by the received input optical fiber into a plurality of signals carried by respective output optical fibers. The first row of splitter modules is located between the second row of splitter modules and the inner surface of the wall supporting the first and second rows of splitter modules. |
| US09341793B2 |
Light source device
Provided is a light source device which includes: a LD mounted on a stem; a cap fixed to the stem so as to cover the LD; a light converging lens capable of converging light flux emitted from the LD; an optical fiber connection portion to which an optical fiber is connected, the optical fiber receiving inputting of the light flux converged by the light converging lens; and a holder for holding the optical fiber connection portion, the holder being fixed to the cap. The optical fiber connection portion includes a position adjusting portion which adjusts a position of the optical fiber connection portion with respect to the holder. |
| US09341791B2 |
Optical module, manufacturing method of optical module and optical communication device
An optical module includes: a substrate provided with a through hole for inserting an optical fiber from a second principal surface side of the substrate; an optical device provided on a first principal surface side of the substrate; a first electrode provided in the substrate for connecting an electric fiber from the second principal surface side; a second electrode formed on the first principal surface side of the substrate for connecting to the optical device; and a third electrode provided on a side surface of the substrate and electrically connected to the second electrode. |
| US09341787B2 |
Apparatus providing simplified alignment of optical fiber in photonic integrated circuits
A structure for optically aligning an optical fiber to a photonic device and method of fabrication of same. The structure optically aligns an optical fiber to the photonic device using a lens between the two which is moveable by actuator heads. The lens is moveable by respective motive sources associated with the actuator heads. |
| US09341782B2 |
Methods and systems for delaying optical waves
Coupled-resonator optical waveguides (CROW) can be used to control a speed of an optical signal. In particular, the coupling distance between the resonators can be adjusted to precisely control a group delay of an optical wave. Systems and methods are described to control such coupling distance in a CROW. |
| US09341781B2 |
Laser machining and mechanical control of optical microresonators
An apparatus and technique are used to fabricate optical microresonators. A fabrication chamber contains all fabrication materials and devices. The microresonators are fabricated from a glass preform mounted on a motorized spindle. A laser is focused onto the preform to partly or fully impinge on the preform. The laser's focus position is controlled by changing the positioning of a lens mounted on a translation stage. Piezoelectric control elements may be mounted to finished microresonators to control of nonlinear parametric oscillation and four-wave mixing effects of the microresonator, control of nonlinear optical stimulated Brillouin scattering and Raman effects of said microresonator and wideband tuning of the frequency spacing between the output modes of a nonlinear-Kerr-effect optical frequency comb generated with said microresonator. |
| US09341773B2 |
Stackable optoelectronics chip-to-chip interconnects and method of manufacturing thereof
An optoelectronics chip-to-chip interconnects system is provided, including at least one packaged chip to be connected on the printed-circuit-board with at least one other packaged chip, optical-electrical (O-E) conversion mean, waveguide-board, and (PCB). Single to multiple chips interconnects can be interconnected provided using the technique disclosed in this invention. The packaged chip includes semiconductor die and its package based on the ball-grid array or chip-scale-package. The O-E board includes the optoelectronics components and multiple electrical contacts on both sides of the O-E substrate. The waveguide board includes the electrical conductor transferring the signal from O-E board to PCB and the flex optical waveguide easily stackable onto the PCB to guide optical signal from one chip-to-other chip. Alternatively, the electrode can be directly connected to the PCB instead of including in the waveguide board. The chip-to-chip interconnections system is pin-free and compatible with the PCB. The main advantages of this invention are to use the packaged chip for interconnection and the conventional PCB technology can be used for low speed electrical signal connection. Also, the part of the heat from the packaged chip can be transmitted to the PCB through the conductors, so that complex cooling system can be avoided. |
| US09341768B2 |
Lighting device, display device and television device
A backlight device includes a light guide plate, a first light source, a second light source, and a positioning portion. The light guide plate has at least one end surface as a light entrance surface and one plate surface as a light exit surface. The first light source is opposed to a first light entrance surface that is a first end surface of the light guide plate. The second light source is opposed to a second light entrance surface that is an end surface opposite from the first light entrance surface of the light guide plate. The second light source is arranged to have a distance from the second light entrance surface relatively greater than a distance between the first light source and the first light entrance surface. The positioning portion is configured to position the light guide plate in a direction in which the first light source, the light guide plate, and the second light source are arranged, and to position the light guide plate with respect to the first light source and the second light source. The positioning portion is arranged to have a distance from the second light entrance surface relatively greater than a distance from the first light entrance surface. |
| US09341767B2 |
Display device
A display device includes a display panel, a backlight unit, a support member, a protection member and a spacing member. The backlight unit includes a printed circuit board on which light emitting blocks are mounted and a light guide. The spacing member presses the printed circuit board against the support member and uniformly maintains spaces between light output surfaces of the light emitting blocks and a light input surface of the light guide. |
| US09341766B2 |
Lighting device, display device and television device
An object of the present invention is to suppress the brightness distribution in the lighting device. The backlight unit 12 according to the present invention includes an LED 17 as a light source with a light intensity distribution in which light having a peak light intensity travels in a direction inclined with respect to a front direction, a chassis 14 having an opening on a light exit side and housing the LED 17, and a light leading member 22 provided to extend from a mounting surface of the LED 17 toward the light exit side. The light leading member 22 is configured to lead light from the LED 17 toward the light exit side. The employment of the LED 17 with the above light intensity distribution enables an irradiation area A irradiated with the light having the peak light intensity to be larger. This reduces the uneven that may occur in the brightness distribution of the outgoing light. |
| US09341765B2 |
Light-source device
A light source device includes: a light-emitting part; a light guide including in its center a columnar part whose central axis direction is a lengthwise direction, that guides light input into an end face from the light-emitting part, and outputs light from a side face of the columnar part; a light guide holder that covers an end of the light guide except for at least part of the end face; and a support part, including a through-hole that penetrates from one face to another face formed therein, that holds an end of the light guide holder on a side of a first opening on the one face of the through-hole so as to allow sliding in the lengthwise direction, and light is input into the light guide via a second opening on the other face of the through-hole. |
| US09341764B2 |
Backlight unit and liquid crystal display comprising the same
Provided are a backlight unit and a liquid crystal display including the backlight unit. The backlight unit includes a light emitting package, and a light guide plate disposed at one side of the light emitting package. The light emitting package includes a printed circuit board including first regions that are spaced an interval apart from each other and second regions defined between the first regions, light source units disposed on the first regions of the printed circuit board, dummy wiring patterns disposed on the second regions of the printed circuit board, and wiring patterns disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the light source units. |
| US09341756B2 |
Method for correcting the surface form of a mirror
A method for correcting a surface form of a mirror (1) for reflecting radiation in the wavelength range of 5-30 nm, which includes: applying a correction layer (13) having a layer thickness variation (21) for correcting the mirror's surface form, and applying a first group (19) of layers to the correction layer. The first group (19) of layers includes first (9) and second (11) layers arranged alternately one above another, wherein the first layers have a refractive index at the operating wavelength which is greater than the refractive index of the second layers for that radiation.The correction layer (13) is applied by: introducing the mirror into an atmosphere including a reaction gas (15), applying a correction radiation (17) having a location-dependent radiation energy density, such that a correction layer having a location-dependent layer thickness variation (21) grows on the mirror's irradiated surface. |
| US09341755B2 |
Optical film
An optical film comprises a transparent supporting substrate and a structuralized layer integrally formed on the supporting layer and having a plurality of light-concentrating units including design that varies in height along their length or varies in pitch of prism structure to overcome the optical defects (wet-out) of the optical film and to enhance the optical properties of the optical film. |
| US09341754B2 |
Light diffuser for point light source and direct type point light source backlight device
In a direct type point light source backlight using point light sources, a light diffuser is provided that can achieve coexistence of superior luminance, luminance uniformity (front and oblique views), and a color unevenness characteristic even with a desired backlight thickness and a few number of point light sources without using a number of optical films together.Specifically, provided is a light diffuser for point light sources, the light diffuser having a plurality of convex portions formed on a surface thereof, wherein the convex portion has a substantially triangular pyramid shape whose bottom surface is a triangle, and an inclined angle θ with respect to a bottom surface of a side surface of the substantially triangular pyramid shape and a refractive index A of a material forming the convex portion satisfy the following equations (1) and (2). θ≧−40A°+115.2° (1) θ≦25A°+22.25° (2) |
| US09341753B2 |
Optical device and method of controlling propagation directions of light and surface plasmon by using the optical device
Provided are an optical device and a method of controlling propagation directions of light and a surface plasmon using the optical device. The optical device includes a light source, a substrate, and a metal layer that is disposed on the substrate, the metal layer includes at least two slots, and propagation directions of light and a surface plasmon may be controlled by using the light that is polarized in a direction parallel to a direction of a long length of any one of the at least two slots. |
| US09341747B2 |
Azo compound and salt thereof, and dye-based polarizing film and polarizing plate containing the same
The present invention relates to an azo compound represented by the following formula (1) [wherein, A represents a naphthyl group having a substituent, R1 to R6 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having a carbon atom number of 1 to 5, an alkoxy group having a carbon atom number of 1 to 5, a sulfo group, or an alkoxy group having a sulfo group and a carbon atom number of 1 to 5, and X represents a benzoylamino group having a substituent, a phenylamino group having a substituent, a phenylazo group having a substituent, or a naphthotriazole group having a substituent] and a salt thereof. By using the azo compound or a salt thereof of the present invention, a neutral color polarizing plate and a color polarizing plate for a liquid crystal projector being excellent in polarization performance and durability. |
| US09341745B2 |
3D network-structured silicon-containing prepolymer and method for fabricating the same
A 3D network-structured silicon-containing preploymer and a method for fabricating the same are disclosed. The method of the present invention undertakes a hydrolytic condensation/polymerization reaction of penta(alkanol)alkoxy disiloxane, a reactive silicon-containing polymer and a reactive hydrophilic monomer to form a silicon-containing preploymer featuring a 3D network structure and having superior mechanical strength. The method further undertakes a copolymerization reaction of the silicon-containing preploymer, a hydrophilic monomer and a silicon-containing hydrophobic monomer to fabricate a silicone hydrogel-containing mixture having high oxygen permeability and high hydrophilicity. The silicone hydrogel-containing mixture can be used to fabricate contact lenses that the users wear comfortably. |
| US09341744B2 |
Amphiphilic polysiloxane prepolymers and uses thereof
The present invention provides an amphiphilic polysiloxane prepolymer which comprises hydrophilic monomeric units derived from at least one hydrophilic vinylic monomer, polysiloxane crosslinking units derived from at least one polysiloxane crosslinker having at least two terminal ethylenically-unsaturated groups, dangling polysiloxane chains each of which is terminated with one ethylenically unsaturated group, and chain-transfer units derived from a chain transfer agent other than a RAFT agent. A prepolymer of the invention is suitable for making hydrogel contact lenses. The present invention is also related to hydrogel contact lenses made from an amphiphilic polysiloxane prepolymer of the invention and to processes for preparing an amphiphilic polysiloxane prepolymer of the invention and for making silicone hydrogel contact lenses. |
| US09341743B2 |
Photosensitive resin composition for color filter, and color filter prepared using the same
The present invention relates to a phthalocyanine compound represented by Formula 1, a dye including the same, a photosensitive resin composition including the same, and a color filter prepared using the same. In Formula 1, Z1 to Z16 and M1 are the same as defined in the specification, wherein 1 to 8 of Z1 to Z16 are substituted with one of Formulae 2 to 5, as also defined in the specification. The phthalocyanine compound can have high luminance, high contrast, and excellent heat resistance. |
| US09341740B1 |
Optical ground tracking apparatus, systems, and methods
Optical ground tracking apparatus for use with buried object locators or other instruments or devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a magnetic field sensing buried object locator includes a ground tracking apparatus having input and output light snoot assemblies, light generation and sensing assemblies, and a processing element to receive signals from the light sensor assembly and generate location or tracking information associated with movement of the locator. |
| US09341738B2 |
Systems and methods for neutron detection in nuclear logging tools
A neutron detector includes a hollow shaped lithium-6-containing scintillator configured to produce a light signal in response to a neutron incident on the scintillator, a gamma-absorbing core that at least partially fills the inside of the hollow scintillator, and a device configured to produce an electrical signal in response to the light emitted from the scintillator. |
| US09341737B2 |
Measuring total, epithermal and thermal neutron formation porosities with one single set of neutron detectors and a pulsed neutron generator
An apparatus for estimating porosities of a formation includes: a borehole conveyable pulsed neutron generator to emit a pulse of high energy neutrons; a short spaced neutron detector to provide a count rate as a function of time; a long spaced neutron detector to provide a count rate as a function of time; a timing gate to synchronize a timing of neutrons detected by the detectors with respect to the neutron pulse; and a processor. The processor is configured to determine epithermal count rates and thermal count rates for the detectors based on timing of detection of neutrons with respect to the neutron pulse and calculate a first ratio of short to long spaced detector epithermal count rates and a second ratio of short to long spaced detector thermal count rates. The processor estimates an epithermal porosity using the first ratio and a thermal porosity using the second ratio. |
| US09341736B2 |
Goods inspection apparatus using distributed X-ray source
This invention relates to an X-ray goods inspection apparatus, and in particular to a goods inspection apparatus using distributed X-ray source. |
| US09341735B1 |
Apparatus and method for simultaneously obtaining quantitative measurements of formation resistivity and permittivity in both water and oil based mud
An apparatus and method for simultaneously obtaining quantitative measurements of vertical and horizontal resistivity and permittivity formation parameters by firing, using at least one transmitter in each of a horizontally and vertically polarized array on opposite sides of a drill collar, signals in the direction of a downhole formation, the fired signals from the transmitters in the arrays being fired simultaneously and engaging the downhole formation. The apparatus and method continues by receiving, using at least one receiver in each of the arrays, signals associated with the fired signals after the fired signals have engaged the downhole formation, where the received signals represent apparent formation data. The apparatus and method further involves determining, using the measured apparent formation data, the true formation data including one or more vertical and horizontal formation parameters. |
| US09341732B2 |
Continuously towed seafloor electromagnetic prospecting system
A towed system for underwater electromagnetic prospecting for use with a seaward vessel is provided. The towed system comprises a first portion, a second portion, and a tow cable. The first portion is located on the vessel and includes a controller and a power supply system. The second towed portion is for submersion in the water and transmits an electromagnetic waveform and receives a corresponding electromagnetic signal. The tow cable connects the first portion with the second portion. The tow cable includes at least a pair of suitable conductors for delivering to the second portion a power signal generated by the first portion and at least one optical fiber for carrying data communications between the first portion and the second portion. The transmitted and received signals are digitized and this information is sent digitally to the controller in the first portion. |
| US09341729B2 |
Amplitude contrast seismic attribute
A method for visualizing seismic data of a subterranean formation, including obtaining an estimated dip field of the subterranean formation, wherein the estimated dip field represents a measure of deviation of a stratigraphic layer from flat, extracting a matrix data item surrounding a voxel of the seismic data, wherein the matrix data item is extracted from the seismic data based on a value of the estimated dip field surrounding the voxel, generating modified seismic data by at least applying a matrix operator to the seismic data, wherein the matrix operator calculates a partial derivative of the seismic data using the matrix data item, and displaying the modified seismic data. |
| US09341727B2 |
Geometrical presentation of fracture planes
Systems, methods, and software can be used to analyze microseismic data from a fracture treatment. In some aspects, fracture planes are identified based on microseismic event data from a fracture treatment of a subterranean zone. Each fracture plane is associated with a subset of the microseismic event data. Confidence level groups are identified from the fracture planes. Each confidence level group includes fracture planes that have an accuracy confidence value within a respective range. A graphical representation of the fracture planes is generated. The graphical representation includes a distinct plot for each confidence level group. |
| US09341726B2 |
Processing seismic data
A method of processing seismic data acquired consequent to actuation of a seismic source is described. The method comprises taking the result of the following process into account when processing the seismic data where the process comprises estimating the effect of uncertainty in the position and/or orientation of the seismic source relative to the measuring receiver on processing the seismic data by estimating a source wavefield from data acquired by a near-field measuring receiver and from a first parameter set including at least one parameter indicative of the position and/or orientation of the seismic source relative to the measuring receiver, varying the value of at least one parameter of the first parameter set, estimating the source wavefield from the data acquired by the measuring receiver and from the varied first parameter set and obtaining information about the uncertainty in the estimate of the source wavefield. |
| US09341725B2 |
Piston integrated variable mass load
Embodiments relate to marine vibrators that incorporate one or more piston plates that act on the surrounding water to produce acoustic energy. An example marine vibrator may comprise: a containment housing; a piston plate; a fixture coupled to the containment housing; a mechanical spring element coupled to the piston plate and the fixture; a driver disposed in the marine vibrator, wherein the driver is coupled to the piston plate and the fixture; and a container coupled to the piston plate, wherein the container is configured to hold a variable mass load; wherein the marine vibrator has a resonance frequency selectable based at least in part on the variable mass load. |
| US09341723B2 |
Radiographic image capturing apparatus
A radiographic image capturing apparatus includes: a readout IC equipped with a plurality of readout circuits connected to signal lines, respectively; a power source circuit which supplies a power to the readout IC; and a discharge circuit disposed on a path through which the power source circuit supplies the power to the readout IC, the discharge circuit being is capable of connecting the path and a GND to each other. The discharge circuit connects the path and the GND during a sleep mode. |
| US09341720B2 |
Camera-based position location and navigation based on image processing
An apparatus and method for estimating a position of a mobile device based on one or more images is disclosed. Positioning information is derived from an image containing an SAS (self-addressing source such as a QR code), thereby setting a first vector V1 and an SAS pose. The image is also used to determine a displacement between the mobile device and the self-addressing source, thereby setting a second vector V2. Using the first vector V1, the SAS pose and the second vector V2, the mobile device may estimate its position with high accuracy and may also recalibrate dead-reckoning navigation and a gyrometer. |
| US09341719B2 |
Psuedo maximum likelihood tracking for global navigation satellite systems
GNSS receivers and methods of determining a current receiver state of a GNSS receiver are provided. The method includes receiving positioning signals from a plurality of satellites; generating a plurality of correlation grids from the received positioning signals, where each correlation grid is associated with a respective one of the plurality of satellites; estimating a probability distribution of the current receiver state from the plurality of correlation grids; and determining a maximum likelihood estimate of the current receiver state from the estimated probability distribution. |
| US09341717B2 |
Apparatus for position notification of vehicle, method and computer-readable medium
A vehicle position notification apparatus include a main body unit which includes at least a detection unit, an attachment unit and a communication unit; wherein the detection unit detects a body under detection; the attachment unit makes the main body unit adhere to the body under detection detected; and the communication unit transmits position information of the main body unit. |
| US09341716B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for GPS time synchronization using cellular signal bursts
A system, apparatus and corresponding method by which to synchronize to a time reference a main module of a device—a main module such as global positioning system (GPS) receiver—using a cellular communication signal received by a cellular module also included in the device. To synchronize the main module to the reference time, the invention provides a method including the steps of: having the cellular module respond to the cellular communication signal by providing to a clock module of the main module a trigger pulse derived from the data component of the cellular communication signal, and also by providing to the main module information relating the trigger pulse to a universal time. The main module is then able to resolve a value for time based on the information relating the trigger pulse to a universal time and the trigger pulse. |
| US09341713B2 |
Sensing circuit for recognizing movement and movement recognizing method thereof
Provided is a sensing circuit for recognizing a movement including: at least one light emitting device outputting light; at least one light receiving device receiving the light reflected by an object on the light emitting device and generating a plurality of current signals proportional to an amount of incident light; a signal conversion unit converting the plurality of current signals into a plurality of digital signals; a recognition unit measuring a synthetic digital signal to determine whether an object moves by receiving the plurality of current signals; and a control unit controlling the recognition unit, wherein the recognition unit generates a clock signal for the synthetic digital signal greater than a critical value and measures a count generated by the clock signal; and the control unit determines whether the object moves through a comparison of the count and a reference value. |
| US09341712B2 |
Variable resolution uncertainty expert system for digital bathymetry database
System and method for estimating uncertainty by obtaining conditional probability densities of bathymetric uncertainty due to navigation error and bottom slope using a Monte Carlo technique, using the Monte Carlo results to train a Bayesian Network to provide the causal relationships of navigation error and bottom slope to bathymetric uncertainty, producing a histogram of bathymetric uncertainty from the Bayesian Network of the uncertainty for an area similar to the training set area, and estimating the uncertainty based on the histogram produced by the Bayesian Network. |
| US09341710B2 |
Sub-carrier successive approximation millimeter wave radar for high-accuracy 3D imaging
A sub-carrier successive approximation (SCSA) radar having a sufficiently high accuracy to capture 3D images of concealed objects. The invention is phase-based, and directly measures round trip time by estimating the phase delay of the carrier. One of its advantages is that the carrier does not need to sweep across a wide frequency range, thereby relaxing RF front-end bandwidth and linearity requirements. SCSA radar accuracy is limited only by the extent of system noise, allowing very high accuracy to be achieved with a sufficient integration period. The SCSA radar can be readily implemented in CMOS, as well as other device technologies, and fabricated within one or more small integrated circuits. |
| US09341709B2 |
Image sensing device and focal plane array device using frequency conversion for real-time terahertz imaging
Provided is an image sensing device that includes a detector configured to detect a terahertz wave signal received by a receiving antenna, a voltage-controlled oscillator configured to output an oscillation frequency according to an output voltage of the detector, and a frequency digital converter configured to convert the oscillation frequency output from the voltage-controlled oscillator to a digital signal. |
| US09341708B2 |
Road surface condition detection device and road surface condition detection method
A radio waves receiving unit receives horizontally polarized waves and vertically polarized waves of radio waves radiated from an object at a radiation angle. An image generation unit generates a horizontally polarized waves image and a vertically polarized waves image based on the horizontally polarized waves and the vertically polarized waves, respectively. A polarization ratio calculation unit calculates, for each radiation angle, a polarization ratio which is a ratio of intensity of the horizontally polarized waves to the vertically polarized waves based on the horizontally polarized waves image and the vertically polarized waves image. A refractive index calculation unit calculates a refractive index of the object based on a change between polarization ratios of two different radiation angles. A road surface condition recognition unit recognizes a condition of a road surface based on the refractive index. |
| US09341704B2 |
Methods and systems for object tracking
Methods and systems for object tracking are disclosed in which the bandwidth of a “slow” tracking system (e.g., an optical tracking system) is augmented with sensor data generated by a “fast” tracking system (e.g., an inertial tracking system). The tracking data generated by the respective systems can be used to estimate and/or predict a position, velocity, and orientation of a tracked object that can be updated at the sample rate of the “fast” tracking system. The methods and systems disclosed herein generally involve an estimation algorithm that operates on raw sensor data (e.g., two-dimensional pixel coordinates in a captured image) as opposed to first processing and/or calculating object position and orientation using a triangulation or “back projection” algorithm. |
| US09341701B2 |
Method for synchronizing time measurements carried out in a radio communication network for geolocation purposes
The invention relates to a system for forming an asynchronous communication network for receiving client transmitters, comprising base stations that are remote from one another, said network enabling the geolocation of the client transmitters. For this purpose, the system comprises a plurality of stationary reference transmitters, the positions of which are known and each of which transmits a specific beacon signal in a frequency band included within the frequency band of the network. The geolocation of a client transmitter is carried out by multilateration by taking pairs of base stations into consideration, each pair consisting of base stations capable of receiving the signals from the client transmitter and the signals from a single reference transmitter, and by calculating the difference between the times the signal from the client transmitter arrived at the base stations, said difference being determined by calculating, for each base station, the difference between the times of arrival of the signal transmitted by the client transmitter and of that transmitted by the reference transmitter. |
| US09341697B2 |
Moving platform orientation tracking system
An orientation tracking system for a moving platform includes a transmitter which generates an beam having a known polarization with respect to a predefined coordinate system. The moving platform includes an ellipsometric detector capable of detecting the polarized beam when within the line-of-sight of the transmitter, and measuring its polarization state. The polarization state indicates the rotational orientation of the moving platform with respect to the predefined coordinate system. The beam could also be used to convey guidance commands to the platform. |
| US09341696B2 |
Method, system, and control apparatus for setting over-current protection point of electronic device
A method, a system, and a control apparatus for setting an over-current protection point of an electronic device are provided. The method comprises: step 1, the parameter auto-test equipment transmitting a starting signal and outputting a target current for over-current protection based on the auto-adjustment control unit; step 2, the first driving signal generator receiving the starting signal and transmitting a driving signal to the over-current protection module; and step 3, the electronic device receiving the target current for over-current protection, and the over-current protection module receiving the driving signal and adjusting a resistance of the resistance adjusting unit to the over-current protection point of the electronic device. The invention attains fully automatic operation on the over-current protection point of the electronic device, improves stability and consistency of setting the over-current protection point, and saves labor cost at the same time. |
| US09341691B2 |
Short TE 3D radial sampling sequence for MRI
A method for magnetic resonance imaging includes providing a radio frequency excitation pulse to a specimen. The pulse has a duration. The method includes, concurrent with providing the radio frequency excitation pulse, applying a first gradient having a first polarity. The method includes applying a readout gradient at a time after the duration. The readout gradient has inverse polarity relative to the first polarity. The method includes, concurrent with applying the readout gradient, acquiring magnetic resonance data from the specimen. The method includes generating an image based on the magnetic resonance data. |
| US09341686B2 |
Single-package power meter
A single-package power meter is disclosed for measuring the power consumed by a load connected to an electrical conductor. The power meter is galvanically isolated from the electrical conductor through the use of magnetic sensors or through the combination of magnetic sensors and capacitors. Instantaneous power consumed at the load and other desired parameters are determined by measuring the voltage of the load and current flowing through the electrical conductor. Current is measured using a magnetic sensor to detect the magnetic field associated with the current flowing through the electrical conductor. Voltage is measured by one of two possible techniques involving magnetic sensors to measure the current flowing through a coil connected in parallel with a load, or through the use of a capacitively coupled voltage divider connected in parallel with the load. An application specific integrated circuit is further disclosed that controls the bias currents of the sensors for autoranging purposes and also for computing desired parameters, such as power consumption. |
| US09341684B2 |
Magnetic field sensing apparatus and methods
Magnetic field sensor designs that provide both increased directionality and proximate coupling desirable for improved directionality and sensitivity and methods for fabricating them. |
| US09341680B2 |
Selectable upper voltage range monitoring circuit
A battery voltage measuring circuit for an implantable cardiac device is presented. Since the usable battery voltage for the device is limited to an upper range of voltages, the need for measuring lower voltages at which the battery is approaching end of life is of no use. The disclosed invention allows for the measurement of a selectable upper range of battery levels that can be chosen without using a level shifting device such as a zener diode. Multiple voltage ranges with associated measurement resolutions can be achieved without using high current zener diode implementations. This allows for a trade-off between measurement range and resolution while resulting in a lower power and more accurate measurement circuit. Conventional zener diode implementations only allow for a single measurement range and are prone to non-linear error as the voltage measurement range increases. |
| US09341679B2 |
Battery voltage monitoring apparatus
A battery voltage monitoring apparatus for monitoring an assembled battery voltage, the assembled battery including a plurality of battery cells, the battery voltage monitoring apparatus including a plurality of input terminals, the plurality of input terminals being respectively coupled to the plurality of battery cells through a potential measurement line, a comparator having a hysteresis characteristic and including a first terminal and a second terminal, the second terminal receiving a reference voltage, and a current source, one end of the current source being coupled between one of the plurality of the input terminals and the first terminal. |
| US09341677B1 |
System and method for data input alignment
A data alignment method is provided by iteratively increasing the delay of each data input line of a system component until a test signal transmitted on each data input line is received at the system component at substantially a predetermined time. |
| US09341674B2 |
Scan test circuit, test pattern generation control circuit, and scan test control method
A scan test generation method includes dividing a single clock domain into a plurality of regions; incorporating a test pattern generation control circuit in each of the regions; selecting one of a skewed-load mode and a broadside mode as a test pattern generation mode by the test pattern generation control circuit for each region; generating a test pattern determined based on selected one of the test pattern generation mode for each region; and generating a test pattern such that the skewed-load mode and the broadside mode are mixed in a single clock domain. |
| US09341671B2 |
Testing holders for chip unit and die package
A testing holder for a chip unit, a multi site holding frame for plural chip units and a method for testing a die thereof are provided. The proposed multi site holding frame for testing plural chip units simultaneously includes a first holder frame having a plurality of testing holders. Each of the plurality of testing holders includes a holder body containing a specific one of the plural chip units, and a pressure releasing device formed on the holder body to release an insertion pressure when the specific one of the plural chip units is inserted in the holder body. |
| US09341670B2 |
Residual material detection in backdrilled stubs
A stub of a via formed in a printed circuit board is backdrilled to a predetermined depth. A capacitance probe is positioned within the via. Then the capacitance probe is used to obtain a test capacitance measurement. The test capacitance measurement is compared to a predetermined baseline capacitance measurement. Residual conductive plating material in the backdrilled stub causes the test capacitance measurement to exceed the predetermined baseline capacitance measurement. An indication is made that the predetermined baseline capacitance measurement has been exceeded. |
| US09341664B2 |
LED failure detection
A fault detecting circuit in a string of LEDs D1-Dc containing comparing operational amplifiers IC1/IC2 connected to a current source is divided into sections, D1-Da, D2-Db, and D3-Dc, wherein the common between the Da cathode and the D2 anode is connected to the noninverting-input of IC1, while the common between the Db cathode and the D3 anode is connected to the noninverting-input of IC2, and to the string D1-Db is connected in parallel to a divider comprising R1/R2, while the string comprising D2-Dc is connected in parallel to a divider comprising R3/R4, and the common of R1/R2 is connected to the inverting-input of IC1 and the common of R3/R4 is connected to the inverting-input of IC2, while the outputs of IC1/IC2 are connected to the bases of corresponding transistors T1/T2, whose emitters are connected to ground and collectors are connected to the voltage source and also to the output terminal. |
| US09341663B2 |
MEMS device positioning apparatus, test system, and test method
A positioning apparatus includes a support structure, a positioning structure, and a fixture for retaining MEMS devices. A shaft spans between the support structure and the positioning structure, and is configured to rotate about a first axis relative to the support structure in order to rotate the positioning structure and the fixture about the first axis. The positioning structure includes a pair of beams spaced apart by a third beam. Another shaft spans between the pair of beams and is configured to rotate about a second axis relative to the positioning structure in order to rotate the fixture about the second axis. Methodology entails installing the positioning apparatus into a chamber, orienting the fixture into various positions, and obtaining output signals from the MEMS devices to determine functionality of the MEMS devices. |
| US09341661B2 |
Tone detector
A tone detector is disclosed that is realizable in digital embodiment on a single integrated circuit die and does not require external components, such as a discrete capacitor. An input connects to a comparator, which in turn connects to one or more edge detectors and a flip flop. The edge detector outputs a pulse responsive to a detected edge. A counter is reset by the pulses from the edge detectors thereby preventing the counter from reaching a maximum value, which would otherwise be output from the counter and provided to a flip flop to clock in the comparator output at the D input to the flip flop. In operation, the comparator generates a rail to rail signal responsive to a received tone, which in turn is clocked through the flip flop as a logic high output indicating presence of a tone. |
| US09341660B2 |
Load impedance estimation and repetitive control method capable of allowing inductance variation for inverter
The present invention provides a load impedance estimation and repetitive control method capable of allowing inductance variation for an inverter, wherein the method is applied for predicting corresponding next-period switching duty cycles for four switching member sets of the inverter by way of sampling three phase voltages and calculating next-period voltage compensations based on the previous line-period voltage compensations. Moreover, during the calculation and prediction, the method also involves the inductance variations of the output inductors of the inverter into the load impedance estimation matrix equation. Therefore, the three phases four wires inverter with the presented load impedance estimation and repetitive control method can provide a steady output voltage to the loads even if the originally-connected loads are replaced with other different loads. Thus, this load impedance estimation and repetitive control method can indeed improve the drawbacks of the inverter controller based on conventional DQ transformation method. |
| US09341659B2 |
User interactive living organisms
Embodiments described herein use capacitive sensing to detect human interaction with living plants. A sensing system may utilize the natural conductive paths found in an organic plant to transmit an electrical signal between the plant and a user interacting with the plant. By directly contacting the plant or coming into proximity of the plant, the user may affect the electrical signal. That is, the electrical properties of the user (e.g., the capacitance of the human body) change a measured impedance curve associated with the electrical signal. Based on this change, the sensing system detects an interaction between the user and the plant and may inform a user interaction device to provide a feedback response to the user. For example, the feedback response may be an audio or video effect that is based on the type of user interaction such as whether the user touched the plant's leaf or stem. |
| US09341658B2 |
Fast on-chip oscillator trimming
Oscillation frequency measurements for trimming oscillators on an integrated circuit device are performed entirely on the device. The oscillation frequency measurements utilize a reference clock. Some measurements count periods of the oscillator signal independently of the reference clock, and some measurements count periods of the reference clock independently of the oscillator signal. After one oscillator on the device has been trimmed, that trimmed oscillator may then be used to make oscillation frequency measurements for trimming another oscillator on the device. |
| US09341657B2 |
Current sensor and printed circuit board for this sensor
A printed circuit includes a hole, a stack, one or more first coils, a magnetic core, and a pad. The hole passes through the vertically through the board to receive a conducting wire. The stack comprises metallization layers vertically stacked and separated mechanically from one another by electrically insulating layers. The first coils fulfill functions of a measurement coil and of an excitation coil. Each first coil has turns wound solely around the magnetic core. The magnetic core forms a first magnetic ring surrounding the hole and extending horizontally between metallization layers. Each turn of each first coil is formed by two conducting tracks produced, respectively, in metallization layers situated above and below the first magnetic ring. The pad passes through an insulating layer and passes through an interior of the magnetic ring, electrically linking the two conducting tracks. |
| US09341656B2 |
Nanosensors including graphene and methods of manufacturing the same
Nanosensors including graphene and methods of manufacturing the same. A nanosensor includes a first insulating layer in which a first nanopore is formed; a graphene layer that is disposed on the first insulating layer and having a second nanopore or a nanogap formed therein adjacent to the first nanopore; and a marker element that is disposed adjacent to the graphene layer and identifies a position of the graphene layer. |
| US09341654B2 |
Mixed current sensor and method for fitting said sensor
The invention relates to a mixed current sensor comprising in a case: a magnetic current sensor; a current measuring device comprising a Rogowski coil arranged in such a way that a primary circuit of the magnetic sensor corresponds to the primary circuit of said current measuring device, electronic means for performing acquisition and measurement of the electric current. Said sensor comprises a linking cassette comprising first fixing means arranged to position and secure said cassette by clip-fastening onto the measuring device; second fixing means arranged to position and secure said cassette and the measuring device by clip-fastening onto the case. |
| US09341648B2 |
Probe card and manufacturing method thereof
The probe card includes a substrate, at least two IC boards, and a plurality of probe pads. The IC boards are located on the substrate, and a predetermined distance is formed between the IC boards. Each of the IC boards has a plurality of lead connection points. The probe pads are plated on the IC boards, and are respectively connected to the lead connection points to cover the lead connection points. A probe area is surrounded by the probe pads on each of the IC boards. The probe pads are used to abut against plural probes. |
| US09341644B2 |
MEMS apparatus with a movable waveguide section
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) sensing device, including a laser arrangement configured to generate a light beam, a first waveguide configured to receive and output a first portion of the light beam, and a second waveguide having a section that is evanescently coupled to the first waveguide and configured to receive and output a second portion of the light beam. The section of the second waveguide is configured to be movable substantially parallel to the first waveguide, wherein a movement of the section of the second waveguide may be caused by an inertial change applied to the sensing device. The movement of the section may cause a detectable change in light intensity between the first and second portions of the light beam. Based on the detected change, the inertial change may be determined. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed. |
| US09341643B2 |
Vibrator element, method of manufacturing vibrator element, vibrator, electronic device, electronic apparatus and moving body
A vibrator element includes a pair of first and second drive vibrating arms that extend in opposite directions from a base portion; a first weight that is spaced from a tip of at least one of the first and second drive vibrating arms toward the base portion and is provided in a first region of the at least one of the drive vibrating arms; and a second weight that is provided in a second region that is a region between a tip of the first weight and the tip of the at least one of the drive vibrating arms. When an area of the first region is represented as A1, a mass of the first weight is represented as B1, an area of the second region is represented as A2, and a mass of the second weight is represented as B2, B1/A1>B2/A2 is established. |
| US09341638B2 |
Automatic analyzer
An automatic analyzer enables users to perform working steps easily and reliably by switching a display screen irrespective of a skill level of the user. The automatic analyzer, which determines a consistency of a test item, includes a display/input section to display a plurality of working steps relating to necessary work flow for measurement. The display/input section is adapted to selectively present a maximized workflow display and a reduced workflow display. The maximized workflow display shows a series of operations and works, and further shows a plurality of operations and works in an order that the plurality of operations and works are processed. In a reduced display of the work flow, the reduced workflow display shows details of a specific operation or work, and a position of the specific operation or work in a sequence that the entire series of operations and works are processed. |
| US09341630B2 |
Activatable fluorogenic compounds and uses thereof as near infrared probes
Novel fluorogenic compounds designed such that upon a chemical event, compounds capable of emitting NIR light are generated, are disclosed. The compounds comprise two or more acceptor-containing moieties and a cleavable donor-containing moiety, being in complete pi-electrons conjugation and being such that no delocalization of pi-electrons is enabled. Also disclosed are fluorescent compounds generated upon subjecting the fluorogenic compounds to a chemical event (e.g., deprotonation). Also disclosed are uses of the fluorogenic compounds as NIR probed with a Turn-ON mechanism in monitoring presence and/or level of various analytes. |
| US09341627B2 |
Protein structural biomarkers to guide targeted chemotherapies
A rapid, infrared spectroscopic method has been developed to assess the efficacy of targeted chemotherapeutics against the structure of the polypeptide target, based on the effect of natural polymorphic sequence variation on the conformation of the protein. This method has an advantage over the current genomics-based screening, as the new method provides a direct readout of the structural, and hence functional, outcome of polymorphisms to the protein region targeted by drugs. It allows rapid measurement of a protein's susceptibility to therapeutic targeted agents, prior to using the drug as treatment in the patient. This method can be used to identify biomarkers for a response for a protein to a drug which can be readily tested, interpreted, and used in a clinical setting. |
| US09341626B2 |
Selective cytopheresis devices and related methods thereof
The present invention relates to systems and devices to treat and/or prevent inflammatory conditions within a subject and to related methods. More particularly, the invention relates to systems, devices, and related methods that sequester leukocytes and/or platelets and then inhibit their inflammatory action. |
| US09341624B2 |
Device for detection of target molecules and uses thereof
Devices and methods for the detection of target molecules are disclosed. Devices and methods for detecting food-borne target molecules are also disclosed. |
| US09341623B2 |
Immunodiffusion assay for influenza virus
A method for performing an immunodiffusion assay comprising at least the following steps of: (a) preparing one or more test samples comprising an influenza virus antigen, (b) treating the test samples with at least 5% (w/v) of detergent, (c) applying the treated test samples to a gel comprising an antibody specific to the influenza virus antigen, and (d) allowing the samples to diffuse into the gel. |
| US09341622B2 |
Cellulose derivative fine particle, dispersion liquid thereof, dispersion body thereof and diagnostic reagent
An object of the present invention is to provide a hydrophilic cellulose derivative fine particle having a small particle size, a dispersion liquid thereof and a dispersion body thereof; and provide a diagnostic reagent composed of the hydrophilic particle, which is excellent in storage stability and does not require excess components, such as an emulsifier or surfactant. The cellulose derivative fine particle of the present invention is a cellulose derivative fine particle comprising a cellulose derivative with a part of hydroxyl groups of cellulose being substituted with a substituent, wherein the average particle diameter is from 9 to 1,000 nm; and the diagnostic reagent of the present invention is a diagnostic reagent obtained by loading a substance differentially interacting with a test object substance on the above-described cellulose derivative fine particle. |
| US09341621B2 |
Ultrasensitive detection of biomolecules using immunoseparation and diffractometry
Systems and methods for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of target biomolecules in a sample are presented. The detection of biomolecules is achieved through a synergistic use of immunoseparation and diffractometry, and the formation of antibody-biomolecule-ligand sandwich complexes that form diffraction gratings. Characteristic diffraction patterns are then produced upon illumination of the diffraction gratings with light. The diffraction patterns can be used to detect very low amounts of biomolecules present in the sample. |
| US09341615B2 |
PC-O 40:1 as a biomarker for healthy aging
Using NMR/MS based metabonomics and targeted lipidomics approaches the inventors have explored the metabolic phenotypes of aging and longevity in a cohort including centenarians, elderly and young adults. The inventors have identified biomarkers for a reduced risk of developing ageing related chronic inflammatory disorders and propose a method of diagnosing a lifestyle that allows delaying and/or avoiding ageing related chronic inflammatory disorders using PC-O 40:1 as biomarker. |
| US09341610B1 |
Electrical arc trigger systems, methods, and apparatuses
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for triggering electrical arcs are disclosed. Such arcs are useful for testing combustible fluids and equipment operating near ignition hazards. In some embodiments, arcs are produced with a defined energy at a defined time with little variation in arc energy. Consistent production of arcs is facilitated by one or more of conditioned electrodes, control and/or reduction of parasitic capacitance, avoidance of corona sources, and non-interfering arc triggers. In some embodiments, electrodes are conditioned by repeated application of conditioning arcs. Conditioned electrodes have relatively physically consistent and chemically consistent tips. In some embodiments, arc triggers are charged particle sources such as light sources operating in cooperation with a target to produce free electrons proximate the electrodes. |
| US09341609B2 |
Methods and systems for ultra-trace analysis of liquids
A monitoring assembly (201) with an intake (213) has at least one pump (210) featuring at least one pump channel mounted in the monitoring assembly (201). A plurality of fluid lines are coupled to the at least one pump (210). At least one filter cartridge (315) is also mounted in the assembly. Each filter cartridge (315) is separately coupled by one of the plurality of fluid lines to one of the pump channels, where each filter cartridge (315) contains material for extracting an analyte, and where the at least one pump operates to separately push fluid through the at least one filter cartridge (315). The filter cartridge (315) operates to separate fluid into constituent parts. |
| US09341608B2 |
Method for determining expected shelf life of seafood
A method of determining the expected shelf life of seafood. The method includes a step of placing a test strip against a piece of seafood, wherein the test strip includes an indicating pad having a pH indicator that is configured to change color in the presence of ammonia. The method further includes a step of ascertaining concentration on a parts per million level of ammonia by comparing the color of the pH indicator to a comparative chart, wherein the comparative chart includes a gradient of color intensity that indicates the concentration on a parts per million level of ammonia. Furthermore, the method includes a step of referencing a booklet having a plurality of charts to cross reference the concentration of ammonia detected by the test strip with the storage temperature to determine an expected shelf life for a piece of seafood. |
| US09341606B2 |
Apparatus for and method of gas analysis
An apparatus for preparing a gas sample for analysis includes a separation unit configured to separate the gas sample into one or more component samples. A thermal conductivity detector detects the output of the one or more component sample from the separation unit. At least one component sample is collected in a component sample collection unit having a sample collector. The sample collection unit has an outlet for distributing the at least one component sample from the sample collector for analysis. |
| US09341605B2 |
Chemical profile of detecting bioactive components of quinones, stilbenes, flavones and alkaloids
Disclosed are a method for analyzing chemical profiles of components from a herbal medicine product. Components may include quinone (including rhein, sennoside A and/or aloe-emodin), stilbene containing resveratroloside, flavone including baicalin, and/or alkaloid including berberine and/or palmatine. The method includes steps of: (a) respectively chromatographing a methanol extract of product and standard(s) corresponding to the component(s) using HPLC; (b) comparing HPLC chromatogram of extract and standard(s); and (c) analyzing the chemical profiles of the product from the comparison results. |
| US09341604B2 |
Devices and methods for adaptive micro-gas chromatography
The present disclosure provides adaptive methods for gas chromatography analysis of a gas sample comprising one or more target analytes (such as a micro-gas chromatography) and adaptive gas chromatography devices for carrying out such analytical methods. Broadly, the system can regulate flow into a downstream chromatographic column by detecting one or more upstream conditions. For example, one adaptive chromatography device comprises a first column, a modulator component, and a second column. A first detector or sensor detects the presence of target analytes upstream from the second column, while a second detector detects the presence of target analytes eluted from the second column. The modulator component assembly is responsive to an output generated by the first detector and adaptively regulates fluid flow into the second column. Such adaptive chromatography (micro-GC) systems have higher separation speed, better analyte identification capability, and far greater energy savings. |
| US09341600B2 |
Deflection gauge for floor test apparatus
A deflection gauge configured for use with a floor test apparatus is provided. The gauge includes a housing, a string potentiometer mounted on the housing, and a channel extending from the housing and pivotably supporting a pivot beam. The pivot beam has a contact button at one end and an attachment point on an opposite end configured for receiving a string of the potentiometer. Deflection of the contact button due to floor sample weight stresses causes the attachment point to pivot and cause linear extension of the string, which is measured by the potentiometer. |
| US09341599B2 |
Ultrasonic flaw detection method, ultrasonic flaw detection apparatus, and pipe manufacturing method
An ultrasonic flaw detection method to detect flaws on an inner surface of a metallic pipe using ultrasonic waves includes a waveform hold step that acquires and holds waveform data of an echo signal when an ultrasonic probe that generates ultrasonic signals toward the inner surface and the metallic pipe are moved relative to each other, a signal analyzing step that calculates a path length up to receiving an echo signal from the inner surface and a change rate of the path length based on the waveform data held, and a flaw detecting step that detects flaws on the inner surface based on the path length and the change rate of the path length. |
| US09341597B2 |
Nanoscale spintronic chemical sensor
In general, the present disclosure is directed toward a novel hybrid spintronic device for converting chemical absorption into a change in magnetoresistance. This device uses a novel magnetic material which depends on the attachment of an organic structure to a metallic film for its magnetism. Changes in the chemical environment lead to absorption on the surface of this organometallic bilayer and thus modify its magnetic properties. The change in magnetic properties, in turn, leads to a change in the resistance of a magnetoresistive structure or a spin transistor structure, allowing a standard electrical detection of the chemical change in the sensor surface. |
| US09341596B1 |
Annular gas ionization delta E-E detector
An integrated ΔE-E ionization detector that includes an outer shell having an interior linear axis, a vacuum tube coaxial with the linear axis, and a front cathode, a center anode, and a rear anode disposed within the outer shell and around the vacuum tube. The front cathode, center anode, and rear anode are substantially planar in shape, and a ΔE detection chamber is defined by the front cathode, the center anode, the outer shell, and the vacuum tube, and an E detection chamber is defined by the rear anode, the center anode, the outer shell, and the vacuum tube. All rays defining at least one solid annular angle about the linear axis and originating from a point in front of the front cathode will intersect the front cathode, internally traverse the ΔE detection chamber, intersect the center anode, and traverse at least a portion of the E detection chamber. |
| US09341594B2 |
Manipulation of microfluidic droplets
The invention provides methods for assessing one or more predetermined characteristics or properties of a microfluidic droplet within a microfluidic channel, and regulating one or more fluid flow rates within that channel to selectively alter the predetermined microdroplet characteristic or property using a feedback control. |
| US09341591B2 |
Small volume in vitro analyte sensor
A sensor utilizing a non-leachable or diffusible redox mediator is described. The sensor includes a sample chamber to hold a sample in electrolytic contact with a working electrode, and in at least some instances, the sensor also contains a non-leachable or a diffusible second electron transfer agent. The sensor and/or the methods used produce a sensor signal in response to the analyte that can be distinguished from a background signal caused by the mediator. The invention can be used to determine the concentration of a biomolecule, such as glucose or lactate, in a biological fluid, such as blood or serum, using techniques such as coulometry, amperometry, and potentiometry. An enzyme capable of catalyzing the electrooxidation or electroreduction of the biomolecule is typically provided as a second electron transfer agent. |
| US09341588B2 |
Sensor element, method of making the same, and sensor device including the same
A sensor element (100) includes a first conductive electrode (120) having a first conductive member (122) electrically coupled thereto; an absorptive dielectric layer (130) comprising a polymer of intrinsic microporosity; and a second conductive electrode (140) having a second conductive member (142) electrically coupled thereto. The second conductive electrode comprises carbon nanotubes and is permeable to at least one organic vapor. The absorptive dielectric layer is at least partially disposed between the first conductive electrode and the second conductive electrode. A method of making the sensor element, and sensor device (200) containing it, are also disclosed. |
| US09341586B2 |
Thermographic inspection techniques
A system may include a source of dry ice, a thermal camera, and a computing device. The computing device may be configured to control the source of dry ice to cause dry ice to be introduced into an internal passage of a tested component. The tested component may include debris within the internal passage, and the dry ice may remove at least some of the debris from the internal passage. The computing device also may be configured to receive, from the thermal camera, thermographic image data representative of the thermal response of the tested component and output a representation based on the thermographic image data. |
| US09341585B2 |
X-ray detector including integrated electron detector
An X-ray detector includes a housing and an X-ray sensing device provided within the housing along the axis of the housing, wherein the housing is structured to be coupled to the electron column or sample chamber of a charged particle beam device. The X-ray detector also includes an electron detector structured to detect a plurality of electrons ejected from a sample in response to an electron beam impinging on the sample, the electron detector being coupled to the housing on or near the axis such that a first line of sight to the electron detector from a point at which the electron beam impinges on the sample is similar to a second line of sight to the X-ray sensing device from the point at which the electron beam impinges on the sample such that X-ray and Backscattered electron images will show similar parallax and shadowing effects. |
| US09341581B2 |
Waste water assessment
Waste water assessment apparatus, a method and a computer program are provided. The waste water assessment apparatus comprises: transceiver circuitry configured to transmit a microwave signal and to receive one or more reflections of the microwave signal; and processing circuitry configured to process the one or more reflections of the microwave signal to determine one or more characteristics of waste water flowing through a conduit. |
| US09341578B2 |
LED-based inspection of a painted surface finish
A method of inspecting a painted finish of a component such as a vehicle body or panel includes positioning the component with respect to an array of LED lighting fixtures each having LED tubes and generating light via the array with a predetermined set of lighting characteristics. The set of lighting characteristics includes a striped pattern, a beam angle of at least 120 degrees, and a CRI of at least 85 or at least 90. The method includes inspecting the painted surface for defects while illuminating the component with the light from the array. A control action is executed with respect to the component when the component contains a threshold number and/or a threshold size of the defects. Each array may have two LED tubes and four angled reflectors, and illuminating includes reflecting light from the LED tubes off of the angled reflectors toward the painted surface. |
| US09341577B2 |
Examination element and examination container
The present invention relates to an examination element that includes an antenna; a hygroscopic portion that absorbs a specimen; a reagent portion that reacts with the specimen; and a chip including a semiconductor device capable of wireless communication and a photo sensor that detects a change in a color of the reagent portion. A change in the reagent portion is detected by the photo sensor, the detected data is stored in the semiconductor device capable of wireless communication, and the data is transmitted to an external database. |
| US09341574B2 |
Raman spectrometer, sensor element for a raman spectrometer and a method for obtaining a raman spectrum using the sensor element
A Raman spectrometer includes a light source (12), a sensor element (14) and a detector (10), where the sensor element (14) includes an active surface (24), which active surface (24) is coated with a layer (26) of inert material to be placed in contact with the sample (4). A sensor element (14) includes an active surface (24) which is coated with a layer (26) of inert material. A method for obtaining a Raman spectrum using such a sensor element (14) includes the following steps: a) providing a sensor element (14), comprising an active surface (24) which is coated with a layer (26) of inert material and placing the layer (26) of inert material in contact with a sample to be analysed; b) illuminating the sensor element (14) with monochromatic light; and c) detecting surface enhanced Raman scattering by the sensor element (14). |
| US09341572B2 |
Detecting device and detecting method of a transparent display panel
The present disclosure relates to a detecting device and a detecting method of a transparent display panel. The method comprises: providing a reference pattern sheet having n pairs of first regions with a first color and second regions with a second color alternately arranged in a first direction, and each of the first regions and each of the second regions having a same predetermined width D in the first direction; forming a uniform predetermined illuminance on the reference pattern sheet; detecting directly the reference pattern sheet by a measuring device; detecting the reference pattern sheet through the transparent panel display by the measuring device; and thereby determining a clarity of the transparent display panel. |
| US09341571B2 |
Method of assessing chemicals in produced fluids
A method of monitoring water-soluble treatment chemicals in a fluid that is immiscible with water and which may or may not contain some aqueous fluid, the method using at least one reagent that produces an optically detectable product, the detection step can take place without separation of the aqueous phase containing the treatment chemicals from the fluid immiscible with water. |
| US09341560B2 |
Device and method for monitoring biocide dosing in a machine
Embodiments of the present disclosure include methods to control the quantity of vapor phase corrosion, devices, and the like. |
| US09341553B2 |
Apparatus for assessing durability of stressed fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bars
An apparatus for testing a specimen consisting of a fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bar in tension while embedded in hardened concrete and subjected to long term environmental exposure. The apparatus includes a steel channel defined by two longitudinally extending parallel steel plates and a pair of unitary plates with one unitary plate at each of the channel. Each of the unitary plates include a U-shaped opening while a forward one of the unitary plates also defines four threaded openings and four bolts passing therethrough for increasing strain on the specimen. A pair of steel tube grips attached to the FRP bar with epoxy are also provided. |
| US09341546B2 |
Apparatus for materials testing of test objects using X-rays
An apparatus for materials testing of test objects using X-rays, the apparatus comprising an X-ray device, comprising: an X-ray source for irradiating a test object held in a test position; an X-ray linear diode array detector comprising at least two detection sections and configured to acquire a complete radial cross-section of the test object; and an electronic control device configured to control the X-ray device, wherein during X-ray testing the test object and the X-ray device are rotatable relative to each other only around an essentially vertical axis of rotation. |
| US09341544B2 |
Abnormality detecting device of internal combustion engine
An abnormality detecting device of an internal combustion engine according to the present invention includes a sensor nick abnormality detecting unit configured to detect a nick abnormality in a detecting element of a downstream side sensor which is provided in a downstream side of an exhaust gas purifying catalyst in an exhaust passage and generates an output corresponding to an oxygen concentration in exhaust gas, on the basis of a matter that a distribution of an output of the downstream side sensor is biased to an area in which the air-fuel ratio is leaner than a theoretical air-fuel ratio, and an inhibiting unit configured to inhibit detection of the nick abnormality of the detecting element by the sensor nick abnormality detecting unit in the case that an intake air amount exceeds a predetermined amount. |
| US09341541B2 |
Apparatus and method for evaluation of optical elements
An apparatus for measuring the optical performance characteristics and dimensions of an optical element comprising a low coherence interferometer and a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor comprising a light source, a plurality of lenslets, and a sensor array is disclosed. The low coherence interferometer is configured to direct a measurement beam along a central axis of the optical element, and to measure the thickness of the center of the optical element. The light source of the Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor is configured to emit a waveform directed parallel to and surrounding the measurement beam of the interferometer, through the plurality of lenslets, and to the sensor array. A method for measuring the optical performance characteristics and dimensions of a lens using the apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US09341540B2 |
Leak detection and location system, method, and software product
Systems, a software product, and a method for leak detection and location where there are multiple distinct layers of waterproofing or roofing membranes separated by insulation or other building materials to create a sealed roofing envelope and in which the system monitors leakage from the primary and secondary membranes and also monitors leakage from the edges of the roofing or waterproofing envelope formed by the membranes. |
| US09341536B2 |
Pressure sensor having a front seal
This disclosure provides example methods, devices, and systems for a sensor having a front seal. In one embodiment, a system may comprise a sensing element; a header coupled to the sensing element; a housing coupled to the header; an adaptor coupled to the housing, wherein a first gap separates the adapter and the sensing element and a second gap separates the adapter and the header; and wherein a stress applied at a front surface of the adapter is transferred to the housing, and the first gap is used to isolate the sensing element from the stress and the second gap is used to isolate the header from the stress. |
| US09341535B2 |
Pressure belt comprising replaceable sensing elements
A pressure belt comprising a flexible belt, and a flat pack assembly removably attached to the flexible belt, wherein each flat pack assembly comprises at least one sensing element. Further, each flat pack assembly also comprises a memory component associated with the sensing element thereon, wherein the memory component houses data specific to the corresponding sensing element. Unlike prior art structures, each flat pack assembly is individually removable. Therefore, if one sensing element malfunctions, it may be replaced by removing the flat pack assembly comprising the malfunctioning sensing element and swapping it out for a flat pack assembly comprising an operable sensing element. This is an improvement over the prior art as it eliminates the need for replacing and recalibrating the entire pressure belt when one sensing element malfunctions, which can be both time consuming and costly. |
| US09341534B2 |
Enhanced static-dynamic pressure transducer suitable for use in gas turbines and other compressor applications
This disclosure provides example methods, devices and systems associated with filter structures employed with sensors. In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving, at a first filter having a plurality of pores, a pressure, wherein the pressure includes a static pressure component and a dynamic pressure component; filtering, by the first filter, at least a portion of the dynamic pressure component of the pressure; outputting, from the first filter, a filtered pressure; and wherein the filtered pressure is used to determine the dynamic pressure component. |
| US09341533B2 |
Air data probes
An air data probe includes a probe head defining a longitudinal axis with a forward tip, and a turbulence inducing surface defined in the probe head aft of the forward tip. The turbulence inducing surface is configured and adapted to trip a fluid boundary layer passing over the probe head to transition from laminar to turbulent to control or reduce boundary layer separation resulting in consistent readings at high altitudes. |
| US09341528B2 |
Torque detector and steering system including the torque detector
A torque detector includes: a magnetic flux collecting unit including a magnetic flux collecting holder formed in an annular shape by resin molding and a magnetic shield formed by bending a metal plate and attached to an outer peripheral face of the magnetic flux collecting holder; and a sensor housing formed integrally with the magnetic flux collecting unit. The magnetic shield has a shield body, a shield end portion, and a bent portion. A second angle formed between an outer side face of the shield end portion and a radial direction is smaller than a first angle formed between an outer peripheral face of the shield body and the radial direction. |
| US09341527B2 |
Impact deflection, absorption and sensing device and system
The present invention is directed to an impact absorption and detection system, including: one or more deflectable arch springs, having at least one leg with proximal and distal ends; and one or more bases, each of the proximal and distal ends attached to a base. Some embodiments may include: a plurality of arch spring assemblies, including: a deflectable arch spring having at least one leg with proximal and distal ends; one or more bases, each of the proximal and distal ends attached to a base; at least one sensor attached to the arch spring assembly; wherein the plurality of arch spring assemblies is configured in a chainmail arrangement and a base of one arch spring assembly is connected with a base of another arch spring assembly; a processor electrically connected to the sensors attached to the plurality of arch spring assemblies; and a data store in communication with the processor. |
| US09341525B2 |
Torque transducer, method for manufacturing torque transducer and transmission for vehicle using torque transducer
Provided are a torque transducer, a method for manufacturing the torque transducer, and a transmission for a vehicle using the torque transducer. The torque transducer includes a mechano-luminescent (ML) part disposed on a torque measuring object and an illumination sensor disposed to be spaced apart from the ML part. |
| US09341524B2 |
Stress detection device for light-transmissive structure and stress detection method for the same
A stress detection device and a detection method for a light-transmissive structure are disclosed. The stress detection device for a light-transmissive structure comprises: a light source, a first polarizer, a light intensity distribution state detection unit and a stress distribution state analysis unit; wherein the light source emits uniform polarized light; during detection, the first polarizer and the light sources are located at opposite sides of the light-transmissive structure, respectively; the light intensity distribution state detection unit is configured to obtain a light intensity distribution state of the polarized light emitted from the first polarizer; the stress distribution state analysis unit is configured to obtain a stress distribution state of the light-transmissive structure according to the light intensity distribution state. |
| US09341521B2 |
Composite material for temperature measurement, temperature sensor comprising the composite material, and method for producing the composite material and the temperature sensor
A composite material 1 for temperature measurement is specified, as is a temperature sensor 10 formed from the composite material 1. Additionally specified are processes for producing the composite material 1 and for producing the temperature sensor 10. |
| US09341520B2 |
System and method for estimating ambient temperature of a portable computing device using a voice coil
Various embodiments of methods and systems for estimating environmental ambient temperature of a portable computing device (“PCD”) from electrical resistance measurements taken voice coils in a speaker or microphone component are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, it may be recognized that the PCD is in an idle state, thus producing little or no thermal energy. Electrical resistance measurements are taken from a voice coil and used to estimate the environmental ambient temperature to which the PCD is exposed. Certain embodiments may simply render the estimated ambient temperature for the benefit of the user or use the estimated ambient temperature as an input to a program or application running on the PCD. It is envisioned that certain embodiments of the systems and methods may use the estimated ambient temperature to adjust temperature thresholds in the PCD against which thermal management policies govern thermally aggressive processing components. |
| US09341518B2 |
Method and apparatus for remotely monitoring liquid food products
A device for monitoring the temperature and level of liquid food in a container is provided. The device includes an upper base and a lower elongate housing member. A plurality of temperature sensors are located along the length of the elongate housing member. The device may include a retaining lip which allows the device to be hung over the edge of a food container, with the elongate housing member extending down into the liquid food. Signals received from the individual sensors can be used to determine both the temperature of the liquid and the level or volume of the liquid in the container, using the known distances between the individual sensors. Information regarding the liquid temperature and level can then be transmitted from the monitoring device to an external receiver. The device may also comprise an energy harvesting device which converts heat energy from the liquid into electrical energy. |
| US09341515B2 |
Optical absorbance measurement apparatus, method, and applications
Apparatus and method to measure optical absorption spectra with spatial resolution on the micron scale. An exemplary setup combines a continuous white light excitation beam in transmission geometry with a confocal microscope. Spatial resolution better than 1.4 μm in the lateral and 3.6 μm in the axial, directions was obtained. The detection and measurement of the absorption spectrum of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell under physiological conditions on the timescale of seconds was realized. The apparatus and method enables the investigation of spatial variations in the optical density of small samples on the micron scale and the study of biological assemblies at the single cell level, leading to applications in optical diagnostics, microfluidics, and other areas. |
| US09341511B2 |
Timing analysis
A method is provided for identifying resonant frequency vibration events in an assembly of rotating blades mounted on a rotor. A plurality of circumferentially spaced stationary timing probes associated with the blades detect the times at which the blades pass the respective probes. The method includes the steps of: obtaining blade timings detected by the probes, determining, for successive rotations of the assembly, respective correlation factors for one or more of the blades, each correlation factor quantifying the degree of correlation between the blade timings detected by the probes for a particular blade on a particular rotation and the blade timings detected by the probes for that blade on the previous rotation and identifying a resonant vibration event when the one or more correlation factors cross a predetermined threshold. |
| US09341506B2 |
Method for controlling excitation energy in a coil arrangement of a flow measuring device embodied as a two-conductor field device
A method for controlling excitation energy in a coil arrangement of a flow measuring device having an energy buffer system for storing energy and embodied as a two-conductor field device is provided for producing a magnetic field B passing through a medium as a function of the excitation energy. The wherein the flow measuring device has a plurality of operating states, between which it transfers and which describe an excitation current pulsed in a time interval. At least a first operating state is operated with a first power, in which the coil arrangement in a first period is excited with an excitation current with a first maximum electrical current level, wherein the period additionally has a first pulse pause, wherein the method is characterized by steps as follows: storing a fed-in excess power, which is beyond a minimum power for operating the device, for operating the coil arrangement during a period as a function of the supplied power in an energy buffer system; wherein an at least partial charging of the energy buffer system occurs in the first pulse pause and an at least partial discharging of the energy buffer system occurs during the excitation of the electrical current level; and changing into a second operating state, in which the coil arrangement is excited in a second period with an excitation current, wherein the second period has a second pulse pause, which is shorter than the first pulse pause. |
| US09341505B2 |
Anomaly fluid detection
A flowmeter includes a process sensor assembly providing a sensor signal and a filter stage comprising a low pass filter and a high pass filter and providing a filtered signal from the sensor signal. A processor determines that a filtered signal is indicative of a low flow condition for a first fluid, alters at least one parameter of the low pass filter and at least one parameter of the high pass filter in response to the low flow condition such that the filter stage provides a new filtered signal, determines that the new filtered signal is not indicative of a low flow condition for a second fluid and generates an alarm in response to the new filtered signal not being indicative of a low flow condition for the second fluid. |
| US09341504B2 |
Fluidic assay cartridge with controlled passive flow
A fluidic cartridge (110) with passively driven fluid flow is disclosed. The disclosed device and method solve problems associated with passive-flow fluidics by using a wicking pad (510) and/or a tilting means to prevent channel draining and backflow. The disclosure further provides means for adding liquid to the cartridge in multiple steps, without requiring liquid aspiration or removal. |
| US09341502B2 |
Analysis tool member
A detachable member and a processing member for an analysis tool, the detachable member including a housing for a probe member, the probe member capable of obtaining one or more characteristics information; and a circuitry component for co-operating with the member, the circuitry component including one or more electrical connections for transmitting one or more characteristics information to a separate processing member such that one or more characteristics information is capable of being used by the separate processing member for analysis. |
| US09341492B2 |
Navigation device, navigation method, and navigation program
Because a navigation device or method according to the present invention extracts only route guidance expressions which a speaking person, such as a fellow passenger, provides for the driver, interprets the abstract route guidance expressions to determine a concrete route guidance expression, and outputs information to be presented corresponding to the concrete route guidance expression, the navigation device enables the driver to understand the content intuitively and can prevent the driver from mishearing the speaking person's utterance and from driving the vehicle toward a direction which the speaking person does not intend. |
| US09341491B2 |
Technique for determining points of interest
The disclosure relates to a technique for searching points of interest, or POIs, along a calculated route to be travelled. A method implementation thereof comprises the steps of providing an initial search corridor of predetermined size, wherein the corridor is indicative of a geographic area covering at least portions of the route to be travelled, performing a POI search within the provided search corridor, and adjusting the corridor size for a subsequent POI search based on a number of POI hits found during the POI search in the currently provided search corridor. |
| US09341490B1 |
Navigation system with spelling error detection mechanism and method of operation thereof
A navigation system includes a control unit configured to identify map data for a geographic region; generate an n-gram frequency set based on the map data and the geographic region; calculate a target occurrence rate for detecting one or more potential spelling errors in the map data based on the n-gram frequency set; and a communication interface, coupled to the control unit, and configured to communicate the target occurrence rate. |
| US09341488B2 |
Time and/or accuracy dependent weights for network generation in a digital map
A method for improving and extending an existing digital road network and generating new networks from statistically relevant amounts of probe data recorded by GPS-enabled navigation devices. New probe data is matched to the existing digital map, then the data merged into the existing network using a time-dependent weight and/or accuracy-dependent weight. A recalculation date is established, and the weight value of a line segment and/or trace is adjusted as a function of the time span relative to the recalculation. The function may include setting a maximal time period divided into bins each having a respective weight reduction factor, or applying decay function. Through this technique, digital maps can be updated and extended without undue influence exerted by old trace data. |
| US09341481B2 |
Method and system for providing tourist assistance and guided navigation by metadata transmission
The application provides a method and system for providing tourist assistance and guided navigation of a tourist spot by transmitting metadata across a communication network. The application provides a method and system for utilizing a beyond audible frequency signal for metadata transmission across a communication network. The application provides a method and system for emitting an encoded metadata over the beyond audible frequency signal, receiving and parsing the said received encoded metadata, extracting and decoding barcode received along with encoded metadata and retrieving the tourist information by accessing a web link received along with encoded metadata for plurality of web based services. |
| US09341478B1 |
Surface information display inhibiting system, device, and method
Present novel and non-trivial system, device, and method for inhibiting surface information to a operator are disclosed. An image generator receives navigation data; retrieves surface data; generates and modifies an image data set as a function of the navigation data and the surface data; and provides the modified image data set to a display system. The image data set could be representative of a three-dimensional, egocentric perspective of a scene outside the vehicle comprised of a current surface and corresponding markings, and at least one intersecting surface and corresponding markings; the intersecting surface may be a surface intersecting the current surface. The image data set may be modified by inhibiting the visibility of the intersecting surface markings for each intersecting surface falling within the image modification area. An intersecting surface may fall within the image modification area if the intersecting surface overlaps a boundary of the image modification area. |
| US09341477B2 |
Vibrator element, method of manufacturing vibrator element, angular velocity sensor, electronic device, and moving body
A vibrator element including: a base portion; vibrating arms which extend from the base portion; a first drive section and a second drive section, and a first detecting section and a second detecting sensor which are respectively provided in the vibrating arms; adjusting arms which extend from the base portion in parallel to the vibrating arms; and a first adjusting section and a second adjusting section which are respectively provided on a principal surface of the adjusting arms, wherein, in the first adjusting section and the second adjusting section, a first electrode, piezoelectric layers, and adjustment electrodes are laminated on the first principal surface to be formed, and output signals of the first adjusting section and the second adjusting section are in antiphase to charges generated by the first detecting section and the second detecting section when no angular velocity is added to the vibrating arms. |
| US09341476B2 |
Rate sensor with quadrature rejection
An inertial sensor is described that has means for improving quadrature rejection The sensor is of a ring type, driven by a driver circuit, the sensor further comprising primary and secondary portions having corresponding signal pickoffs. The primary pickoff signal amplitude is controlled via an automatic gain control, the primary phase lock loop and VCO locks to the resonant frequency to provide the clocks for the synchronous detectors, the primary pickoff signals via the primary phase shift circuit is provided to the primary driver, the secondary pickoff signal being input into a detector circuit capable of detecting motion in the sensor. The secondary channel comprises a series of circuits that when operable in series significantly improve the quadrature rejection ability of the sensor. The circuits include a synchronous detector, passive and active filters and a decimator. |
| US09341470B2 |
Light section sensor
A light section sensor for providing an output of a digital output coordinate has an illuminating device for projecting a light line onto a measured object and an electronic camera for detecting the projected light line on the measured object. A processing device determines at least one measured coordinate in a measured coordinate system on the basis of the light line detected. A coordinate transformation device transforms the measured coordinates from the measured coordinate system into the output coordinates in an output coordinate system by a coordinate transformation. A slope angle determination device determines the slope angle of the light section sensor in relation to a flat surface of the measured object. |
| US09341468B2 |
Measuring apparatus
A measuring apparatus includes a light projecting and receiving device configured to project and receive light, and measures an object based on the projected and received light. The measuring apparatus comprises a chamber configured to enclose a first space for accommodating the object; a partition configured to separate the first space from a second space which accommodates the light projecting and receiving device, and configured to transmit the light; a first regulator configured to regulate temperature of the first space to a first temperature by flowing a gas through the first space; and a second regulator configured to regulate temperature of the second space to a second temperature different from the first temperature by flowing a gas through the second space. The partition includes a plurality of partition walls disposed with a gap. |
| US09341467B2 |
Energy beam position verification
A method for verifying a position of an energy beam spot, said method comprising the steps of: providing a calibrated energy beam having a first focus in a at least two positions at a work table, detecting said at least two positions of said energy beam spot on said work table created with said energy beam having said first focus, providing said calibrated energy beam having a second focus in said at least two positions at a work table, detecting said at least two positions of said energy beam spot on said work table created with said energy beam having said second focus, comparing said at least two positions created with said first and second focus, wherein said position of the energy beam is verified if said positions created with said first focus are deviating less than a predetermined distance from said positions created with said second focus. |
| US09341466B1 |
Sheet height sensor using movable and stationary mirrors
Apparatuses include a conveyor moving in a processing direction, a print head positioned adjacent the conveyor, a light source positioned adjacent a first side of the conveyor, a movable mirror positioned adjacent a second side of the conveyor, that is across the conveyor from the first side of the conveyor, a fixed mirror positioned adjacent the first side of the conveyor (the fixed mirror is between the light source and the print head), and a light sensor position adjacent the second side of the conveyor. The light sensor is between the movable mirror and the print head. The light source outputs light to the movable mirror across the conveyor, the movable mirror directs the light back across the conveyor to the fixed mirror, and the fixed mirror directs the light again across the conveyor to the light sensor. |
| US09341462B2 |
Sensor for measuring blade tip clearance in gas turbines
Determining a distance between stationary and moving portions of a turbo machine including generating, by a fixed gap capacitive probe, a first output signal based on a characteristic of a gas in a gas flow path of the turbo machine, wherein the fixed gap capacitive probe is located in the stationary portion and is configured to sense a characteristic of a gas flowing through the gas flow path. Also, a variable gap capacitive probe, located adjacent the fixed gap capacitive probe, is used to generate a second output signal based on a distance between the variable gap capacitive probe and the moving portion, wherein the variable gap probe is configured to capacitively couple to the moving portion of the turbo machine. Afterwards, the value of the second output signal can be adjusted based on the first output signal to produce an adjusted output signal. |
| US09341460B2 |
Double cone stylus, touch probe, and method of calibrating double cone stylus
A double cone stylus includes a shank and a double cone-shaped tip attached to the tip end of the shank, the double cone-shaped tip being a rotationally symmetric body obtained by rotating a triangle having a base extending along the shank around the shank as the symmetric rotation axis. The double cone stylus allows the shape of an inner wall surface of a measurement object with the inner wall surface retracted from an upper reference plane to be measured from above. |
| US09341459B2 |
Form measuring apparatus and measuring method for V groove center
Controller executes a first scanning control, causing a driver to move a probe such that a tip scans along an inclined surface of a V groove to approach a center of the V groove, and a second scanning control, causing the driver to move the probe such that the tip scans along the inclined surface of the V groove to approach the center of the V groove from a side opposite that of the first scanning control. Angle calculator calculates an angle created between a direction of a deflection vector of the probe and a predetermined direction. Threshold value-correspondent coordinate obtainer obtains coordinates of the tip where the angle has changed to exceed a first threshold value during execution of the first scanning control and obtains coordinates of the tip where the angle has changed to exceed a second threshold value during execution of the second scanning control. |
| US09341457B2 |
Combined submersible vessel and unmanned aerial vehicle
A combined submersible vessel and unmanned aerial vehicle preferably includes a body structure, at least one wing structure, at least one vertical stabilizer structure, and at least one horizontal stabilizer structure. A propulsion system is coupled to the body structure and is configured to propel the flying submarine in both airborne flight and underwater operation. Preferably, the propulsion system includes a motor, a gearbox coupled to the motor and configured to receive power generated by the motor and provide variable output power, a drive shaft coupled to the gearbox and configured to transfer the variable output power provided by the gearbox, and a propeller coupled to the drive shaft and configured to accept power transferred to it from the drive shaft. The propeller is further configured to rotate and propel the flying submarine in both an airborne environment and in an underwater environment. |
| US09341456B2 |
Self-propelled projectile having a fuel-rich propellant that reacts with water
A system for initiating and controlling a reaction between a metal and water is provided for use in propelling a rocket, torpedo, or other munition. A thermite charge having a quantity of reducing metal in excess of that required to react with the metal oxide is utilized to melt and/or vaporize the excess reducing metal. Water may be added to the munition immediately before use, or in the case of a torpedo, may be taken in from the surrounding water. The principles embodied by Bernoulli's equation may be used to regulate the intake of water for the reaction with the reducing metal. |
| US09341450B1 |
Hunting broadhead
A hunting broadhead having a tip, a first stem, a middle pin, a first blade, a second blade and a rubber band; a rear end of the tip is riveted to a front end of the first stem; the first stem is provided with a blade slot which accommodates the first blade and the second blade; a stem side flat surface is provided with a middle pin movement slot; a rear end of the middle pin movement slot is provided with a middle pin insertion hole; the first blade and the second blade are removably connected with the first stem via the middle pin; the first blade and the second blade engage with the rubber band provided on a rubber band fixation slot (60) via their respective blade notches (50); a rear end of the first stem (22) is provided with screw threads (67). |
| US09341449B2 |
Broadhead collars
Collars are provided to facilitate retaining the blades of a broadhead in their in-flight position during flight. Collars can be used in situations where the preexisting use of an O-ring is used to help facilitate maintaining the blades of a broadhead in their in-flight position during flight. Collars can also be used in situations where the preexisting use of an O-ring is not used to help facilitate maintaining the blades of a broadhead in their in-flight position during flight. |
| US09341445B2 |
Antiballistic panel with first and second laminates having fibers of different tensile modulus
An antiballistic panel includes at least a first stack and a second stack. The first stack has a plurality of first laminates made of a first kind of fibers, and the second stack has a plurality of second laminates made of a second kind of fibers. Either the first kind of fibers or the second kind of fibers has a tensile modulus in the range of 40-85 GPa measured according to ASTM D7269. The other of the first kind of fibers or the second kind of fibers has a tensile modulus in the range of 86-140 GPa measured according to ASTM D7269. |
| US09341444B2 |
Thermal electric images
This disclosure relates to thermal electric images which may form Informational Images such as landing zone markers, drop zone markers, vehicle markers, road markers, covert signs, notices, directions and the like, and may also be used to form thermal targets which may be used as training aides for weapons and other devices that are equipped with thermal imaging equipment. |
| US09341439B2 |
Firearm fore end covers and grips
Firearm fore end grips and grip assemblies have a generally planar and flexible heat resistant grip which is configured for attachment or securement to a fore end of a fire arm or to a barrel cover and engaged with a Picatinny rail of the firearm or barrel cover. |
| US09341438B2 |
Handguard for firearm
A handguard or other cover for a firearm includes a shell or body with a hollow interior cavity and a retaining structure configured to engage the forearm and retain the shell in place on the forearm, where the retaining structure is releasable to permit removal of the shell from the forearm. The shell may have a concave inner surface and a convex outer surface extending between the first and second edges. The concave inner surface may include at least one tab extending outwardly from the inner surface which is configured to be connected to a slot or opening formed in the forearm for the firearm. |
| US09341427B2 |
Portable shooting bench and utility table
A portable shooting bench and utility table. In the shooting-bench embodiment, a tabletop is isosceles-triangle-shaped for ambidextrous functionality. In the utility-table embodiment, the tabletop is preferably round but can be any shape suitable for general use. The shooting-bench embodiment preferably includes a height-adjustable seat. A plurality of ratcheting leg couplers are rotatably attached to a support base and radiate outward from the support base. A proximate end of a leg attaches in ratcheting fashion to each ratcheting leg coupler, allowing adjustment of an angle of declination of each leg. The ratcheting leg couplers rotate about the support base, allowing radial positioning of the legs for optimum stability under various terrain conditions. The shooting bench or utility table can be converted from a deployed mode to a folded mode, in which shoulder straps can be affixed to the tabletop allowing transport of the shooting bench or utility table backpack-style. |
| US09341422B2 |
Archery bow
An archery bow for selectively firing multiple projectiles one at a time and having riser with first and second ends and limb arrangements fixed relative thereto with a bow string is joined therebetween, the bow having a drum housing and a selectively rotatable drum rotatably secured relative to the housing, the drum being rotatable about a drum axis and having a projectile openings circumferentially spaced about the drum axis, each of the projectile openings shaped to receive a projectile wherein a plurality of projectiles can be secured in the drum at one time, one of the projectile openings being in a firing position and supporting a projectile to be fired by the bow, the remaining projectile openings being spaced from the firing position to reduce interference with the projectile to be fired, the drum having a rotation mechanism to rotate each of openings into the firing position individually, the bow further including a shooting force mechanism to selectively propel the projectiles. |
| US09341421B2 |
Rifle having a fixed magazine
A fixed magazine for a rifle has a projecting boss that engages a cavity within the magazine well of the rifle. Once the magazine is inserted and the boss engages the cavity, the magazine is fixed and may not be removed from the rifle. The magazine is loaded by separating the upper receiver from the lower receiver and exposing the magazine opening, allowing it to receive rounds of ammunition. |
| US09341419B2 |
Corrosion-resistant bimetallic tube and its use in tube bundle equipment
A bimetallic tube consisting of at least one tubular element in a first metal resistant to the corrosive and/or erosive action of a process fluid with which it is put in contact, having at least one end, or an area close to an end, externally coated with a layer of a second metal, different from the first and more suitable, with respect to this, for being seal-welded to a support.Tube bundle equipment to be used for thermal exchange operations at high temperatures and pressures, under conditions of high aggressiveness of the process fluids, wherein the tube bundle comprises at least one tube having the above characteristics.Said equipment is particularly used as a heat exchanger and decomposer, for example as a stripper, in the cycle of urea synthesis processes where there are conditions of high pressure, high temperatures, high aggressiveness of the process fluids, and in which the tube bundle consists of at least one tube having the above characteristics. |
| US09341418B2 |
Thermal transfer structure with in-plane tube lengths and out-of-plane tube bend(s)
Cooling apparatuses and coolant-cooled electronic assemblies are provided which include a thermal transfer structure configured to couple to and cool one or more electronic components. The thermal transfer structure includes a thermal spreader, and at least one coolant-carrying tube coupled to the thermal spreader. The coolant-carrying tube(s) includes multiple tube lengths disposed substantially in a common plane, and an out-of-plane tube bend. The out-of-plane tube bend is couples in fluid communication first and second tube lengths of the multiple tube lengths, and extends out-of-plane from the multiple tube lengths disposed in the common plane. The first and second tube lengths may be spaced apart, with a third tube length disposed between them, and the coolant-carrying tube(s) further includes an in-plane tube bend which couples in fluid communication the third tube length and a fourth tube length of the multiple tube lengths. |
| US09341416B2 |
Heat-dissipation unit with heat-dissipation microstructure and method of manufacturing same
A heat-dissipation unit with heat-dissipation microstructure and method of manufacturing the same is disclosed. The heat-dissipation unit with heat-dissipation microstructure includes a main body internally defining a chamber; a wick structure formed on an inner surface of the chamber; and at least a SiO2 nano thin film coated on the wick structure. The SiO2 nano thin film is formed of a plurality of SiO2 nanograins, and is coated on the wick structure of the heat-dissipation unit through the sol-gel process. With the at least one layer of SiO2 nano thin film coated on the wick structure, it is able to upgrade the heat dissipation performance of the heat-dissipation unit. |
| US09341414B1 |
Swamp cooler assembly
An evaporative cooler assembly utilizes available water runoff and a filtration mechanism to increase efficiency and maintain an existing evaporative cooler. The assembly includes a main housing and a first intake vent coupled to and extending through the main housing. A first evaporative pad positioned in the main housing adjacent to the first intake vent. A blower is positioned in the main housing for urging the ambient air through the intake vent and out of an output duct. A reservoir is provided extrinsic to the main housing. A delivery line is in fluid communication between the reservoir and the evaporative pad. A pump is operationally coupled to the delivery line urging water through the delivery line. A return line is coupled to the main housing and the reservoir wherein, the return line returns unevaporated fluid to the reservoir. |
| US09341410B1 |
Apparatus for removing liquid from a suspension
An apparatus for removing liquid from a suspension comprises: one or more drying chambers; a conveyor system for transporting the suspension through the drying chambers at a substantially continuous speed, including a semi-permeable conveyor belt; a blower for injecting air into the drying chambers; a vacuum pipe and one or more vacuum pipe segments that extend from the vacuum pipe into each of the drying chambers for drawing saturated air out of each of the drying chambers, and wherein the vacuum pipe is operably connected to an intake of the blower. The apparatus may further comprise a condenser receiving the saturated air from the vacuum pipe, cooling the saturated air, and collecting liquid from the saturated air before returning it to the blower. The apparatus may further comprise a preheating arrangement in which cooled air exiting the condenser is passed through the drying chambers before returning it to the blower. |
| US09341407B2 |
Apparatus for storing ice and method for controlling same
An apparatus for storing ice that includes a housing with heat insulation characteristics and a storage space; an ice maker in the housing, which includes an ice tray; an ice bin arranged below the ice maker; a transfer member arranged within the ice bin to discharge ice to the outside of the ice bin; a refrigerating cycle that extends into the housing, and which includes an evaporation unit attached to the outer surface of the ice tray; and a control unit which controls the operation of the refrigerating cycle and of the transfer member. Air in the storage space is cooled by being in contact with the evaporation unit and/or the ice tray, and the control unit operates the refrigerating cycle to cool the storage space when the temperature of the ice tray and/or of the evaporation unit is higher than a preset temperature. |
| US09341403B2 |
Cooler
A cooler includes a bottom portion and a top portion. The bottom portion includes a body defining an insulated first compartment. The top portion includes a bottom cover and a top cover. The bottom cover is operable to enclose the first compartment and includes a bottom cover body defining a second compartment. The bottom cover body includes a speaker, a power input, and an auxiliary input, and a top cover operable to enclose the second compartment. The top cover is operable to enclose the second compartment. |
| US09341398B2 |
Air conditioning system provided with an electronic expansion valve
An air conditioning device is used in a motor vehicle. The air conditioning device includes air conditioning circuit, which includes a compressor (14), a condenser (11), and/or an internal exchanger, an electric expansion valve (12) which opening ratio is changed according to a control signal, and an evaporator (13), which are traversed in this order by a refrigerant fluid and a control unit (40) capable of controlling a control signal of the expansion valve so as to regulate a control variable relating to the superheating of the evaporator or to the sub-cooling of the condenser (11) according to a chosen regulation rule. |
| US09341396B2 |
Retro-fit energy exchange system for transparent incorporation into a plurality of existing energy transfer systems
A retrofit energy exchange system including a first set of valves for connecting to a first energy transfer sub-system. The system further includes a second set of valves for connecting to a second energy transfer sub-system. In addition, the system includes an energy exchange unit configured to supply excess energy from to the first energy transfer sub-system to the second energy transfer sub-system. |
| US09341395B2 |
Room air conditioner having a liquid-to-air heat exchanging device with peltier elements
A room air conditioner with a liquid-to-air heat exchanging device for the exchange of heat between a liquid and air has a first flow channel for the air and a second flow channel for the liquid, and at least one Peltier element. The heat exchanging device is subdivided into a first stage in which a heat exchange occurs in a passive manner between the liquid and air, and a subsequent second stage in which heat is pumped from the liquid to the air or from the air to the liquid by supplying an electrical current to the at least one Peltier element. |
| US09341391B2 |
Automatically controlled flow-through water heater system
This invention relates primarily to an electric heater based tankless water heater, though some aspects may also apply to a natural gas or other fuel based tankless water heater. In particular aspects relating to “smart” communication and coordination of the tankless water heater with other devices, which may be electrically powered or powered by other fuels, may also apply to non-electric flow through fluid heating systems. The subject tankless water heater invention incorporates several aspects relating to energy and construction efficiency which will be detailed further. These include both physical aspects, such as coatings, tubing and heater element design, and electrical aspects, such as power control for individual heater elements, which can make the tankless water heater more compact and more efficient in operation, with reduced instantaneous and long term load on electrical supply systems. |
| US09341389B2 |
Coil tube heat exchanger for a tankless hot water system
A heat exchanger having a helix coil incorporated into a stainless steel elongated variable diameter cylindrical housing and a radial direct-firing burner and a blower-driven hot flue gas to heat water. A buffer tank is incorporated within the lumen of the helix coil. At least one rope seal is disposed between adjacent coil loops of a portion of the helix coil for enhancing heat transfer to the helix coil. In one embodiment, the heat exchanger further comprises a Stirling engine comprised of a free piston having hot and cold ends that is disposed within the cavity taken up the buffer tank, wherein the hot end receives heat from the burner and the cold end is cooled by the incoming cold water line to form an electric power generator. |
| US09341382B2 |
Cooking apparatus
A cooking apparatus includes a cavity unit having a cooking chamber therein; a door on the cavity unit, opening and closing an opening of the cavity unit; a heater in at least one of upper, rear and lower parts of the cavity unit, generating hot air to be supplied to the cooking chamber; a cooking container including a housing unit which has an entrance through which hot air enters, and a support unit on the housing unit and on which one or more cooking objects to be cooked by the hot air are placed; and an agitation unit configured to directly contact the cooking object(s) placed on the cooking container, and mix or turn the cooking object. |
| US09341381B2 |
Home appliance with supplemental primary air supply
A home appliance, particularly a gas range including an appliance body, a cooktop on the appliance body, an oven cavity in the body, a gas-operable heating element in the cavity for heating the cavity to a cooking temperature and including a gas mixing pipe having an inlet open to the cavity for intake of gas and air for combustion. A ventilation channel extends through the appliance body intermediate the cooktop and the oven cavity. A fan is in the appliance body, the fan being in fluid communication with the ventilation channel for creating an airstream within the ventilation channel. An air conduit extends between the ventilation channel and the gas mixing pipe, with an air conduit inlet in the airstream and an air conduit outlet adjacent the gas mixing pipe to direct air from the airstream to the gas mixing pipe for combustion with the gas and air. |
| US09341380B2 |
Attachment system for an igniter electrode for a gas burner
System for attaching the flame igniter electrode to a burner for gas hobs, boilers or the like. The system comprises a deformable seal of substantially annular shape mounted in a groove in the electrode which makes it possible to attach the electrode reversibly to a seat attached to the body of the burner. Attachment takes place through the application of an axial force inserting the electrode into the seat. |
| US09341378B2 |
Multi-gas appliance
Cooking appliance having an external control panel equipped with one or more regulating valves, where the rotary regulator organ is equipped with various peripheral openings for supplying a flow Q. For the supply of one or another type of gas, NG or LPG, either the control knob or a bezel disk in the external panel are interchangeable on the appliance, being chosen between two different available units, one and the other permitting two different angular position limits A2, A3 of the regulator organ or the supply of a constant flow Qmin through one or another opening with calibrated sections, respectively for NG or LP gas. An appendix in the control knob guided in a slide groove on the control panel of the appliance, or a tongue on the bezel disk stopping the rotation of the control knob, determines the travel limit A2 for the supply of Qmin of NG. |
| US09341377B2 |
Spherical collet for mounting a gas turbine engine liner
A liner and attachment structure has an exhaust liner for use in a gas turbine engine. At least one hanger has feet secured to the liner. The hanger has an aperture extending at a central web. A flanged washer is received within the opening in the hanger. The flanged washer allows adjustment relative to the hanger. The flanged washer has a spherical recess. A collet has a plurality of part-spherical fingers separated by slots, and are received in the spherical recess of the flanged washer. A member extends into the collet to hold the part-spherical fingers radially outwardly. The member is also utilized to secure static structure, and to secure the liner to the static structure. |
| US09341375B2 |
System for damping oscillations in a turbine combustor
Certain embodiments include a resonator for the head end of a turbine combustor. The resonator is partially defined by first and second plates disposed about a fuel nozzle in the head end of the turbine combustor. The resonator is further configured to receive an air flow which extends through the resonator and into the fuel nozzle. |
| US09341374B2 |
Fuel nozzle assembly with removable components
A fuel nozzle assembly (10) is presented for a gas turbine engine (12). The fuel nozzle assembly (10) includes a rocket unit (14) and a swirler (16) with an aft end (18) in threaded engagement with a forward end (20) of the rocket unit (14). The fuel nozzle assembly (10) may include an oil tip (36) including a clocking feature with a mechanical constraint to orient the oil tip (36) at a predetermined angular orientation (42) relative to the swirler (16). The fuel nozzle assembly (10) may include one or more gas stage inlets (13, 15), one or more oil stage inlets (17, 19), and a flexible hose (26) to direct the oil to a plurality of rocket units (14). |
| US09341368B2 |
Method of installing exhaust tube
A method of installing an exhaust tube is implemented by inserting an exhaust tube into an exhaust pipe that leads from inside of a building to outside thereof. A support portion of an insertion jig is introduced into a through hole from a side of one end portion of the exhaust tube, and a projection of the support portion is engaged with a recess of the exhaust tube, so that the insertion jig is fixed to the exhaust tube. An end of the exhaust tube on the side of the one end portion having the insertion jig fixed thereto is inserted into the exhaust pipe, and the exhaust tube is pushed from inside of the building to outside thereof. |
| US09341366B2 |
Water-chamber working apparatus and water-chamber working method
A water-chamber working apparatus according to the present invention includes a base that holds heat transfer tubes on a tube plate surface and is fixed to the tube plate surface, and a manipulator that is coupled with the base and is suspended in a water chamber. The base includes a base body that is coupled with a manipulator, a wing capable of being displaced forward and backward with respect to the base body, and clamper that are arranged on the wing and are inserted into the heat transfer tube to clamp and hold the heat transfer tube. |
| US09341364B2 |
Toilet installation tool
A toilet installation tool for assisting an installer in aligning a toilet mounting hole in a base of a toilet with a closet bolt projecting upward from a bathroom floor includes a sleeve configured to removably mount on the closet bolt in alignment with a vertical axis of the closet bolt, and a light source attached to a top end of the sleeve. The sleeve and the light source are sized to pass through the toilet mounting hole and are removable from the closet bolt after a toilet has been lowered onto the bathroom floor. The invention may be embodied as a kit having two light sources and two or more interchangeable sleeves of different lengths. A method of mounting a toilet on a pair of closet bolts using the toilet installation tool is also disclosed. |
| US09341363B2 |
Digital reading device with cosmetic function
A digital reading device with cosmetic function includes a base plate, a lighting panel, a driving unit and a transparent touch panel. The base plate includes a plurality of black units. The lighting panel is disposed on the base plate and includes as plurality of lighting units for emitting a green light. The driving unit is electrically connected to the lighting panel and the base plate, wherein the driving unit is for turning on or turning off each of the lighting units respectively. The transparent touch panel is disposed on the lighting panel for displaying a message composed of the black units. The message may also be white-colored on a green background color with various saturation levels whenever the lighting panel includes a plurality of displaying units, and each of the displaying units consists of two lighting units with complimentary colors. |
| US09341362B2 |
LED venue lighting system with first and second housing having an air passage therebetween
An outdoor area LED lighting system including: a housing containing a large array of LEDs mounted to an aluminum direct thermal path printed circuit board and a single lens. The large array of LEDs are capable of producing light rays directed through the single lens to produce a beam of light to illuminate the outdoor area. The single lens is preferably a Fresnel lens. The housing is preferably capable of being sealed in a weather-tight manner. A second housing may at least partially surround the first housing such that at least one air passage is provided between the first housing and the second housing. A heat sink including a heat block in thermal communication with a plurality of heat tubes and fin assemblies may be in partial thermal contact with the LED module and in fluid communication with the at least one air passage. At least one fan may be provided in or in fluid communication with said at least one air passage to cool the heat sink. A digital interface may connect the LED module to a host computer to monitor and track information and trending for statistical process control. |
| US09341361B2 |
Light-emitting means and use
A light emitter with a radiation exit surface including a housing part with a receptacle, at least one organic optoelectronic device, arranged in the receptacle, and at least one cover part joined to the housing part, wherein the device is mounted between the cover part and the housing part. |
| US09341357B2 |
Throwable light source and network for operating the same
A light source suitable for being thrown or projected into an airborne trajectory for the purpose of illuminating a subject or environment; and a system of light sources on a wireless network for the purpose of operating in collaboration to illuminate a subject or environment; and accessory devices on the wireless network including cameras and remote control devices; and a throwable light source streamlined to reduce drag when projected into a long-range trajectory. |
| US09341350B2 |
Fastening device for LED light string of backlight module and liquid crystal display
Disclosed is a fastening device for a LED light string of a backlight module, including a LED light string and a frame, the LED light string being configured with a substrate and a plurality of LEDs mounted onto the substrate, wherein at least a retainer is incorporated on the substrate, and the frame being provided with a notch matchable with the retainer such that the LED light string can be securely attached to the frame. The retainer can be made individually and a then attached to the backside of the LED light string. In addition, with the retainer readily snapped into the notch of the frame, a distance between to the LED light emitting surface to the frame is also reduced, and this helps to realize the design of narrow-boarder of the liquid crystal display. |
| US09341348B2 |
Lighting assembly and socket
A lighting assembly (100) configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to a socket (150), the lighting assembly comprising a lighting module (102) comprising a light source (106), electrical contacting means (108) electrically connected to the light source and a heat spreader (110) in thermal contact with the light source; and a connector (104) being rotatable in relation to the lighting module (102). The connector comprises connector locking means (119) for locking the lighting assembly to a socket through interaction with receiving locking means comprised in the socket when the lighting module is axially inserted into the socket and the connector is rotated relative to the lighting module and the socket, thereby bringing the electrical contacting means (108) into contact with corresponding receiving contacting means (122) comprised in the socket. Hereby, the space required for electrical contacting means in the lighting assembly and in the socket may be reduced as no space is reserved in the socket for rotation of the electrical connecting means. |
| US09341341B1 |
Lens for an illuminating device
A lens includes a lens portion, an outer periphery and a prism portion. The lens portion is disposed at a middle portion of the lens, has an outline that is non-circular, and includes at least one curved surface. The outer periphery surrounds the lens portion. The prism portion is disposed between the lens portion and the outer periphery, and includes an undulated section that has at least one undulated surface and that has a center disposed at the middle portion of the lens. |
| US09341340B2 |
Light source unit
A light source unit includes a light source, a light source support to hold the light source, a fixing member which is attached to the light source support and includes a through-hole through which beams of light emitted from the light source pass, a lens holder inserted into the through-hole and attached to the fixing member by an adhesive; and a collimating lens to collimate the beams of light from the light source, wherein attachment surfaces of the adhesive for the lens holder has a tilted attachment surface tilted relative to the optical axis of the collimating lens. |
| US09341339B2 |
Lightng device having a ventilated reflector housing for motor vehicle lamp
A reflector housing that includes a reflective inner surface, a neck portion defining a substantially cylindrical cavity with a rear opening in which a light source can be fitted to the housing, and a ventilation duct extending radially from the cavity and having a ventilation hole opening into the rear opening of the housing. |
| US09341330B2 |
Wide-angle lighting display device
A wide-angle lighting display device with the features of its original patent application displays an unlimited extension of an inward serial arrangement from the middle, and further displays an extended visual effect at an oblique angle, enlarging the display area thereof; also, the structure thereof is easier to be maintained and renovated. |
| US09341326B2 |
Lighting device
A portable, battery-operated flashlight having improved pivoting, switching and focusing features is disclosed. In one aspect of the invention, the flashlight takes the form of an attachment to a head gear for hands free use. In another aspect of the invention, the flashlight takes the form of a head lamp held in place on a user's head by an elastic band. The pivot connection between the body and the base, as well as the serrations on an exterior surface of the body, allows a user to adjust any angular direction of the light as desired. In another aspect of the invention, the flashlight takes the form of a long-handled flashlight having improved switching and focusing capabilities, such that axial movement of the switching assembly turns the flashlight “on” or “off,” as well as causing a position of the lamp to vary in order to focus or defocus the light. |
| US09341323B1 |
Light-mixing flashlight
A light-mixing flashlight has a body, three light-emitting diodes, three first reflectors, and three second reflectors. The body has a mounting surface formed in the body, a body opening opposite to the mounting surface, and three light recesses formed in an interior of the body. The light-emitting diodes are mounted in the light recesses, and are respectively a red light, a green light, and a blue light light-emitting diode. The first reflectors are formed as parabolic mirrors and are respectively mounted in the light recesses via a working angle. An opening of each first reflector faces toward the corresponding light-emitting diode. The second reflectors are formed as spherical mirrors, are mounted on the mounting surface, and respectively correspond in position to the first reflectors. Therefore, the light-mixing flashlight has an improved emitting efficiency. |
| US09341322B2 |
Color-mixing light-emitting diode module
The present invention provides a color-mixing light-emitting diode module. According to the present invention, a first light-emitting chip and two second light-emitting chips are disposed on a holder. The first light-emitting chip emits red light and the plurality of second light-emitting chips emit white light. The red light and the white light are mixed, giving mixed light with high color rendering and brightness. Objects illuminated by the mixed light will exhibit colors closest to their original colors as perceived by eyes. Furthermore, by arranging the first and second light-emitting chips in matrix, the color rendering of the light-emitting diode module can be adjusted and improved. |
| US09341321B2 |
Lens having light transmissive portion and optic shield portion
A lighting assembly includes a light source and a lens. The lens includes a light transmissive portion and an optic shield portion for blocking or redirecting at least a portion of light generated by the light source. The light source can include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). The optic shield can be painted on or otherwise applied to a portion of the lens. Alternatively, it can be integrally formed with the lens. The optic shield can be an opaque material for blocking light generated by the light source or can be a reflective material for reflecting light generated by the light source through the light transmissive portion of the lens. Methods for making an optic shield are also described. |
| US09341317B2 |
LED bulb emitting light ray in a downward direction and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention relates to a LED bulb emitting light ray in a downward direction and a manufacturing method thereof. The LED bulb emitting light ray in a downward direction comprises a screw head, a base, a lamp body, and a lampshade integrally connected in order, wherein a PCB board longitudinally arranged within the base is fixedly connected with a PCB board transversely arranged on the top of the lamp body, the bottom of a LED aluminum substrate component is fixed by a base buckle, the LED aluminum substrate component is longitudinally fixed on the lamp body by fastening a hook buckle to a buckle hole of the base, the top of the LED aluminum substrate component is fixedly connected with the PCB board on the top of the lamp body, the PCB board on the top of the lamp body is connected with the lamp body by fastening element. |
| US09341310B2 |
Pump for conveying a medium and lubricating system containing the same
A pump for conveying a medium comprises a pump chamber having an intake opening and an outlet opening. A movable component is movably disposed in the pump chamber in order to convey a batch of the medium, which is located in the pump chamber, from the intake opening to the outlet opening. A ventilation device has a ventilation opening in fluid communication with the pump chamber. The ventilation opening is different from the intake opening and the outlet opening. The ventilation device is configured to reduce or at least substantially prevent, at least temporarily, the formation of a partial vacuum or a negative pressure in the pump chamber. |
| US09341306B2 |
Accessory mounting apparatus
An apparatus for mounting accessories includes a base that has a mounting surface and at least one aperture. The apparatus further includes a mounting mechanism coupled to the mounting surface of the base, with the mounting mechanism being connectable with a mountable accessory. Further, the apparatus includes at least one resiliently bendable support coupled to the base via retractable engagement with the at least one aperture. |
| US09341302B2 |
Means and method for lining a pipe
A method and means for repairing the junction of a main and lateral pipe are provided. A repair assembly includes a launcher device, a bladder assembly surrounding the launcher device, and a liner assembly surrounding the bladder assembly. The bladder assembly is frangibly connected to the launcher device to maintain the position of the bladder assembly relative to the launcher device during transport and positioning of the assembly. Likewise, the liner assembly, which includes main and lateral liner members, is frangibly connected to the bladder assembly. The frangible connections allow the position of the repair assembly to be maintained. The frangible connections can be broken, such as by inflation and/or tearing or pulling apart of the components of the repair assembly. Thus, the invention provides a way to mitigate the movement of components of the repair assembly during transport and positioning of the repair assembly. |
| US09341301B2 |
Fill pipe repair collar and method of use
A device and method of use for the repair of a leaking fuel tank fill pipe are provided. The device and method of use are designed to create a durable repair of a leaking tank fill pipe without the cost, time, and difficulty associated with replacing an entire diesel fuel tank on a semi-truck tractor. The device is a collar which threads onto damaged threads on a fill pipe neck and creates a leak-resistant seal with the fill pipe neck. A tank fill cap can then be screwed onto the collar, which forms a leak-resistant seal with the fill cap. The device may have one or more mechanisms to retain the collar on the tank fill pipe neck. The method of use may include re-cutting damaged threads on the fill pipe neck with the collar device. |
| US09341297B2 |
Closure element for pipe ends
A closure element for closing the ends of pipes, in particular steel pipes, having a circular base cover whose outer diameter corresponds at most to the outer diameter of the pipe, having a side which faces towards the pipe interior and comprises at least two elastic clamping elements which in the assembled condition are supported on the inner surface of the pipe and clamp the base cover therewith. In order to permit universal usage, the closure element comprises means for selectively adjusting/changing the radial position of the clamping elements on the base cover. |
| US09341290B2 |
Lugged wafer alignment ring
Systems, apparatus and methods are disclosed for coupling a wafer style primary element of a process measurement system between process pipes in a manner which aligns the primary element with the process pipes, while maintaining alignment and preventing leaking in the event of a dynamic shock to the process pipes. |
| US09341285B2 |
Cable clip
A cable clip is provided for mounting cables onto solar modules. The cable clip is a one piece assembly that is comprised of two main sections: a first recess for clipping onto a solar module and a second recess for receiving a cable from a solar module. The cable clip may be designed in either a parallel or perpendicular configuration which gives installers of solar modules maximum flexibility when mounting cables onto modules. A multi-level clip is also described for cases when a multitude of cables are required to be mounted onto a solar module. |
| US09341283B2 |
Self setting and stabilized switch target
Apparatus includes a spindle having an outer surface configured with a surface finish that has openings/grooves, the outer surface also having an outer diameter; and also includes a switch target arrangement having a switch target in combination a target ring configured to be installed in the switch target so as to form the at least one switch target arrangement, and is also configured with an aperture having an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the surface finish of the spindle, so that when the at least one switch target arrangement is installed over the spindle, interference causes at least a portion of the target ring to deflect into a groove/space of the surface finish of the spindle so as to energize the target ring to grip the surface finish of the spindle to secure the switch target when the spindle moves. |
| US09341282B2 |
Off-axis position monitoring and control system and related methods
A flow control valve and a valve-position monitoring and control system coupled to the valve member and configured to precisely determine valve conditions related to the rotary position of the valve member. The system has an array of spaced apart transducers in an arcuate arrangement and in a fixed, non-moveable position relative to the valve's housing. A magnetic-field source is fixed to and rotates with the valve member as a unit. The magnetic-field source includes magnetic members adjacent to and out of physical engagement with the transducers. The magnetic member moves along an arcuate path parallel to the arcuate arrangement of the transducers as the valve member rotates through the plurality of rotary positions. The magnetic-field source provides magnetic flux detectable by at least a plurality of the transducers to precisely determine the rotational position of the magnetic-field source and/or the valve member, and the fluid flow rate through the control valve. |
| US09341277B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for automatic calibration of a needle valve device in a pressurized flow system
Exemplary embodiments are directed to apparatus, systems and methods used in connection with a needle valve device operating in a pressurized flow system. The apparatus, systems and methods provide for automatic positioning of a needle relative to a seat in the needle valve device to provide consistent calibration with minimal user interaction after a maintenance event or upon a start-up of the pressurized flow system. The apparatus, systems and methods utilize a calibration collar secured to a shaft of an actuator within the needle valve device. The calibration collar includes one or more locking mechanism and a spring. |
| US09341276B2 |
Valve assembly
A valve assembly including a valve body having a first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber, the pressure of the first pressure chamber being lower than that of the second pressure chamber. The pressure of the second pressure chamber is discharged to the first pressure chamber in response to the change of the pressure of the first pressure chamber. A blocking device is arranged between the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber. A valve stem is arranged in the valve body with one end movably contacting the blocking device. A diaphragm is connected to the valve stem and is arranged adjacent to or above the first pressure chamber. When the pressure of the first pressure chamber is changed, the diaphragm forces the valve stem to move by sensing the pressure change of the first pressure chamber. |
| US09341273B2 |
Composite dynamic valve seal assembly for high temperature control valves
A sliding stem control valve includes a valve body, a seat ring located within the valve body and a valve plug slidably mounted within the valve body, the valve plug and the valve seat cooperating to control fluid flow through the control valve. A composite seal assembly is located between the valve plug and the valve seat, the composite seal assembly includes a composite seal ring located between a first backup ring and a second backup ring. A biasing element is located adjacent the second backup ring and a retainer ring is located adjacent the biasing element to maintain the biasing element adjacent the second backup ring. |
| US09341272B2 |
Gate-coating process
An apparatus that includes a body of a gate configured to seal a gate valve. In certain embodiments, the body has a first face with a first coating disposed thereon, and a second face opposite the first face and having a second coating disposed thereon. The body also may include a flow bore that extends from the first face, through the body of the gate, to the second face and a reference structure that does not have either the first coating or the second coating disposed thereon. In some embodiments, the reference structure is configured to define a plane on the first face, the second face, or both during a planarization process. |
| US09341271B2 |
Drive device of a regulation valve for casting liquid metal
A device for driving a regulation valve for casting liquid metal contains a main rod controlling the opening and closing of the valve, and a coupler linking the main rod and the valve. The device also contains a coupler controller able to activate and deactivate the coupler, enabling linkage and detachment of the main rod and the valve. |
| US09341268B2 |
Watertight apparatus of exterior component for vehicle
A watertight apparatus of exterior component for a vehicle may include a coupling member coupling an exterior component and a vehicle body panel, and having a coupling groove formed on an outer circumferential surface of a part of the coupling member which passes through a vehicle body panel, and a watertight pad which is arranged to be in close contact with a bottom of the exterior component, a first side of which is coupled to a part of the vehicle body panel through which the coupling member passes and a second side of which is inserted into the coupling groove. |
| US09341266B1 |
Position sensing hydraulic cylinder
A hydraulic cylinder has an internal shaft that rotates in response to extension or contraction of an output rod. A magnet is affixed to the shaft, the position of which is detected by a sensor internal to the hydraulic cylinder for determining the position of the output rod. |
| US09341265B2 |
Primary plastic piston with functional insert for a penetration-type master cylinder and a master cylinder equipped with such a piston
A primary piston is described of molded plastic and equipped with a functional metallic insert and at least one groove. The primary piston is installed in a master cylinder comprising at least the primary piston and a secondary piston, these being mounted in the bore hole of a master cylinder. These pistons can create pressure in a primary pressure chamber and a secondary pressure chamber, respectively, due to the action of a push rod on the primary piston. |
| US09341260B2 |
Shift control method for DCT vehicle
A shift control method for a dual clutch transmission (DCT) vehicle may include, performed by a controller of the DCT, an actual shift determining step, a cooperation control termination determining step, a flare determining step, an engine torque reducing step, a torque adding step, an engine torque raising step, and a shift finishing step of reducing an amount of reduction of the engine torque until synchronization is completed in proportion to a synchronization prediction time in which it takes an engine speed to reach a synchronization speed when the synchronization prediction time is smaller than a reference time during which the torque adding step and the engine torque raising step are performed, and having slip control over an engagement-side clutch. |
| US09341257B2 |
Shift actuator
A shift actuator of the present invention includes a first and a second fluid pressure chamber for providing fluid pressure to each of a first and a second piston defined in a cylinder and a shift operating member inserted and disposed between the first piston and the second piston to move back and forth along the axial direction. On a side surface to the axial direction of the cylinder, an opening portion to which the shift operating member is inserted is formed. The opening portion is provided opening only to a part of the circumferential direction of the cylinder, and a lower end of the opening portion in a circumferential direction of the cylinder reaches a just under position in the vertical direction of the cylinder. This enables to discharge foreign matters included in hydraulic oil in the cylinder according to a stroke of the piston, with a simple configuration. |
| US09341253B2 |
Scissors gear
A variety of scissors gear assemblies are disclosed that utilize integral parts or common tools to align teeth of the scissors gear assembly. Methods of use are also disclosed. |
| US09341252B2 |
Wave generator and strain wave gearing
A wave generator (5) for a flat-type strain wave gearing (1) has a first elliptical outer circumferential surface (6S) of a first wave generator portion (5S) defined by a first elliptical curve (C1), and a second elliptical outer circumferential surface (6D) of a second wave generator section (5D) defined by a second elliptical curve (C2). Compared to using a wave generator for which the contour is defined by a single elliptical curve, differences between the ball load distribution of the first wave generator portion (5S) and the ball load distribution of the second wave generator portion (5D) can be suppressed, both ball load distributions can be equalized, and the equivalent ball load can be reduced; therefore, an increase in the lifespan of the wave generator bearing can be achieved. |
| US09341247B2 |
Power transmission device
Disclosed is a power transmission device. A power transmission device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a rack having a plurality of rack tooth profiles; a plurality of pin gears, which have a plurality of power transmission pins that rotate relative to the rack tooth profiles for power transmission, and are provided at a distance from each other along the lengthwise direction of the rack; and input gears which are disposed between the pin gears and rotatively connect the plurality of pin gears such that the pin gears rotate at the same speed as each other. |
| US09341246B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
Traction planets and traction rings can be operationally coupled to a planetary gearset to provide a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT can be used in a bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on the frame of the bicycle at a location forward of the rear wheel hub of the bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on and supported by members of the bicycle frame such that the CVT is coaxial with the crankshaft of the bicycle. The crankshaft is configured to drive elements of the planetary gearset, which are configured to operationally drive the traction rings and the traction planets. Inventive component and subassemblies for such a CVT are disclosed. A shifting mechanism includes a plurality of pivot arms arranged to pivot about the centers of the traction planets as a shift pin hub moves axially. |
| US09341245B2 |
Friction roller planetary gearing and speed-changing and differential gearing
A friction roller planetary gearing includes a first and a second sun which are axially displaceable with respect to one another and at least one of the suns is connected for conjoint rotation to a sun shaft. Stepped planets roll on the suns, on a first annulus and on a second annulus. The suns, the annuluses and the stepped planets are configured as friction rings. The second annulus is axially displaceable relative to the first annulus. A first torque-dependent axial displacement device controls a contact pressure between the suns and contact surfaces of the planets by using a torque-dependent axial displacement of at least one of the suns. A second torque-dependent axial displacement device controls a contact pressure between the annuluses and contact surfaces of the planets by using a torque-dependent axial displacement of at least one of the annuluses. |
| US09341244B2 |
Diagnostic device for shift control actuator
A diagnostic device for a shift control actuator of a CVT includes: a variator; a chamber that is filled with and discharges hydraulic fluid for an upshift and a downshift, respectively; an upshift control valve for filling hydraulic fluid into the chamber; a downshift control valve for discharging hydraulic fluid from the chamber; a fail-safe valve for suspending the discharge of hydraulic fluid from the chamber when the upshift control valve is in a filling state; actuators for driving the upshift and downshift control valves; and a shift controller for controlling the actuators so that an actual shift ratio approaches a target ratio. The shift controller determines the state of the actuators with the information on the actual shift ratio when the controller instructs a downshift or an upshift. |
| US09341236B2 |
Chain capture assembly for chain tensioners
Aspects of the invention are directed to an apparatus that may be used as a chain tensioner. The apparatus comprises a release handle, which is limited in motion by an elongate member that rides in a shaped guide slot. As a result of this configuration, two distinct forces must be applied to the release handle before a chain is released from the apparatus. Such a configuration reduces the chances of inadvertent releases of a chain. |
| US09341232B2 |
Two-component cord and method for molded power transmission belts
A belt having a tensile cord embedded in the belt, extending in a longitudinal direction and made up of two components: a tensile component and a sacrificed component. The sacrificed component may be broken into a plurality of discontinuous segments. The tensile component provides most of the reinforcement of the belt. The sacrificial component of the precursor cord protects the tensile component from excessive stretching during cord treating and winding, but breaks, melts, or yields during mandrel expansion during the belt molding process, thus preserving the stretchability of the tensile component. |
| US09341231B2 |
Overmolded wheel-balancing weight with wheel-securing clip
A polymer overmolded wheel-balancing weight adapted to be removably secured to a wheel to correct an unbalanced wheel to prevent undesired vibrations when the wheel is rotating, the polymer overmolded wheel-balancing weight with a wheel-securing clip sized and designed to be secured to a wheel, and a weight assembled to the wheel-securing clip and at least partially covered with overmolding polymer material that is sized and designed to abuts the wheel-securing clip on a wheel side at a first location thereof, and abuts the wheel-securing clip on a side opposed to the wheel side at a second location thereof, the first location being distinct from the second location. A kit of wheel-balancing weight and a wheel with an overmolded wheel-balancing weight are also encompassed by the present application. |
| US09341230B2 |
Tunnel-style crankshaft with counterweights of increased radial profile
A tunnel-style crankshaft assembly is provided having counterweights that serve the purposes of retaining the axial motion of bearings and improving the balance of the crankshaft assembly as a result of having a structure of an increased radial profile. The counterweights can include a mass section and a bearing retaining section. When the counterweight is secured to a crank web, the mass section of the counterweight is axially spaced from a bearing assembly disposed around the web. Therefore, the mass section of the counterweight may extend radially beyond an inner race of the bearing assembly without contacting the bearing assembly's cage. The mass section of the counterweight does not extend radially beyond a radial envelope of a crankshaft support surface thereby permitting the crankshaft assembly to be slidingly inserted into the crankcase. |
| US09341226B2 |
Methods and apparatus for managing pressurized gas in fluid dampers
A method and apparatus for a shock absorber having a damping fluid compensation chamber with a gas charge. In one aspect, a partition separates a first chamber portion from a second chamber portion, wherein the first portion of the chamber is at a first initial gas pressure and the second portion of the chamber is at a second initial pressure. A valve separates the first and second chamber portions and opening the valve comingles the first and second chamber portions so that the combined chamber portions are at a third pressure. In another aspect, a piston disposed through a wall is in pressure communication with the gas charge and is biased inwardly toward a pressure of the charge, whereby an indicator is movable by the piston in response to the pressure. |
| US09341225B2 |
Device for isolating an object from external motions
There is disclosed a device comprising two wire rope isolators for isolating an object from external motions.The wire rope isolators are arranged such that, if one of the two wire rope isolators is loaded in compression, then the other wire rope isolator is loaded in tension. |
| US09341224B2 |
Systems for absorbing an impact force
A system is provided that includes a mounting module configured to be coupled to a support frame and an object-support module configured to support an object. The mounting module comprises an area configured to allow at least a portion of an object supported by the object-support module to pass through the area. The system further includes a motion-guiding module coupled to the object-support module and the mounting module. The motion-guiding module is configured to guide motion of the object-support module along a first axis of the system toward the mounting module in response to a threshold force applied to the object-support module along the first axis. The motion-guiding module is configured to resist motion of the object-support module along a second axis of the system that is perpendicular to the first axis of the system. |
| US09341220B2 |
Brake pad retention device and method
A brake pad retaining device is provided for holding a brake pad within a brake caliper of an air disc brake system. The device may be formed as a spring which provides at least four retention forces at longitudinal ends of the brake pad in order to suppress brake pad kick motion and vibration, while applying a biasing force that pre-loads a caliper to its mounting pins. The device may include a mounting section that is coupled to a brake carrier, a first projection and a second projection. The first projection extends from one region of the mounting section to a region near a longitudinal end of the brake pad to thereby exert a radially inward force against the brake pad. The second projection extends from another region of the mounting section to an inner surface of the brake caliper to thereby exert a biasing force against the brake caliper. |
| US09341217B2 |
Bearing raceway heat distribution using heat pipes
A system and method to cool a bearing. The system includes a heat pipe extending through a thickness of an inner ring of the bearing from a first surface to an opposing second surface and a cooling lubricant in fluid communication with the first surface. The method includes exposing the first surface of the roller bearing to lubricant and transferring heat energy through the heat pipes. |
| US09341216B2 |
Rolling bearing assembly device for steering column
The invention relates to a rolling bearing assembly device having an inner race, an outer race, at least one row of rolling elements disposed between the inner race and the outer race, and a sleeve mounted in the bore of the inner race. The sleeve provides a radial bearing flange, the lower edge of which has a portion that is inclined towards the interior of the device, the inclined portion in contact with a locking washer. The sleeve also provides at least one slot extending axially towards the inner race from the lower edge of the radial bearing flange, the lower edge being disposed on the opposite side from the inner race. |
| US09341215B2 |
Bearing cage with a peripheral vibration damping ring
An annular bearing cage for a roller bearing of a turbine machine rotating shaft is provided. The bearing cage includes a vibration damping ring corresponding to deformation modes of the bearing cage, and at least one external rim. The external rim includes an at least partially annular housing that extends around a central axis of the bearing cage. The damping ring is located in the housing. |
| US09341212B2 |
Locking arm system for a retention ramp of a lift gate
The present invention provides a locking assembly for a ramp of a lift gate. The locking assembly comprises an elongated locking arm and a spring for spring loading the locking arm. The locking arm is pivotably disposed on a pivot point relative to the ramp. A biasing tension in the spring urges a proximal end of the locking arm to engage with a cam portion of the ramp to maintain the ramp in a selected position. The cam portion has multiple engagement surfaces for individually engaging with the locking arm, wherein selectively engaging the locking arm with each engagement surface of the cam portion maintains the ramp in a corresponding selected position. |
| US09341210B2 |
Fastener
In a fastener (10), a pin (14) is pressed into a grommet (12), so that a guide portion (56) formed in an end side of the pin (14) contacts with a guided portion (42) of the grommet (12), and a leg piece (34) of a leg portion (28) of the grommet bends and is expanded. Then, the guided portion (42) of the leg piece (34) in the leg portion (28) of the grommet (12) is engaged with an upper end edge (56A) of the guide portion (56) of the pin (14). Also, the guide portion (56) of the pin (14) is a curved surface having a tangent angle (θ) changing relative to a shaft line (14B) at a contact point (P1) with the guided portion (42) from an outer circumferential portion of an end (14A) of the pin (14) toward an upper end edge (56A), and an insertion force (S) into the grommet (12) of the pin (14) at each contact point (P1) is held approximately constant. |
| US09341208B2 |
Lower corner connector for modular sports goal
A lower corner connector for a modular sports goal comprises a first tube having a generally circular inner surface and a second tube extending substantially perpendicularly to the first tube. The first tube has an open end for receiving an upright and a base opposite the open end for resting on a surface. A retainer projects inwardly from the inner surface of the first tube for engaging and retaining the upright and permitting the upright to rock toward and away from the second tube within the first tube to assist in absorbing impact forces. |
| US09341207B2 |
Web component and method of making a web component
A web component suitable for use with a snap-fit assembly is disclosed herein. The web component includes, but is not limited to, a sheet metal member that has a periphery and a first side and a second side. The sheet metal member also includes a plurality of protrusions that extend from a first surface of the first side and from a second surface of the second side. The plurality of protrusions are disposed proximate a portion of the periphery and are configured to engage a female receiver associated with the snap-fit assembly. |
| US09341205B2 |
Family of fixation devices with variable taper
A family of devices attach elements previously bored in a cylindrical manner, wherein each device has a in extending along an axis and a tapered shaft and a head, and a bushing intended for accommodating the shaft of the pin, the bushing extending along the same axis having an outer cylindrical surface and an inner tapered surface. The family has at least two devices with bushings presenting, before installation by interference, an identical outer diameter and a different rate of taper of the inner surface. |
| US09341201B2 |
Self-adjusting end clamp
Self-adjusting end clamps are disclosed. The clamps may include a top member and a bottom member having vertically arranged holes. As a bolt placed in the vertically arranged holes is tightened, the top and bottom members move toward one another to grip an object therebetween. |
| US09341199B2 |
Torque converter hydraulic control system for an automatic transmission
A torque converter hydraulic control subsystem for a transmission is provided. The torque converter hydraulic control subsystem includes a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid that communicates with a torque converter clutch (TCC) regulation valve, a TCC control valve, and a lubrication boost valve. The torque converter hydraulic control subsystem is configured to provide cooling and lubrication fluid flow to a torque converter in all modes of operation. |
| US09341197B2 |
Modular switching valve arrangement and switch cabinet with such switching valve arrangement
A modular switching valve arrangement (12) having a plurality of switching valves (20) which are arranged adjacent to one another is characterized in that each switching valve (20) includes at least one media connection (34) which has a connecting piece (26) mounted thereto, and in that the connecting piece (26) braces the corresponding switching valve (20) with a shared carrier plate (24). |
| US09341195B2 |
Centrifugal fan module and electronic device using the centrifugal fan module
A centrifugal fan module comprising a fan housing and an impeller is provided. The fan housing includes an air inlet and a sidewall. The sidewall is pivotally disposed in the fan housing to rotate in the rotational direction relative to the fan housing. A tongue portion is formed between the sidewall and the impeller, a pressurized region is formed from the tongue portion along the rotational direction to the air outlet, the pressurized region includes a strong airflow region and the dust-discharging hole is in the strong airflow region. |
| US09341194B2 |
Gas turbine engine compressor with a biased inner ring
An inner bushing assembly (280) to provide a biasing force between a guide vane (260) and an inner ring half (261) of a gas turbine engine compressor (200) is disclosed. The inner bushing assembly (280) includes a first bushing (281), a second bushing (282), and a biasing element (283). The first bushing (281) is configured to be installed about an inner vane shaft (267) of the guide vane (260) adjacent to an airfoil (265) of the guide vane (260). The second bushing (282) is configured to be installed about the inner vane shaft (267) distal to the airfoil (265). The biasing element (283) is configured to be installed about the inner vane shaft (267) between the first bushing (281) and the second bushing (282). |
| US09341193B2 |
Cabin air compressor diffuser vane drive ring
A cabin air compressor drive ring includes an outer ring defining an axis, an inner ring co-axial with the outer ring, a plurality of webbings connecting the inner ring to the outer ring, and a plurality of vane engagement pins axially protruding from the outer ring. The vane engagement pins are spaced circumferentially about the outer ring, and the inner ring includes a drive ring bearing interface. |
| US09341182B2 |
Electromagnetic pump
An electromagnetic pump includes a coil configured to conduct an alternating current, a cylinder, and a piston assembly. The piston includes a cavity configured to receive fluid and an aperture defined in a first end thereof The piston is arranged within the cylinder to define an interface between the piston and the cylinder, and the piston is configured to move linearly between a first position and a second position within the cylinder. The piston is positioned in the electromagnetic pump such that it is within a magnetic field which is generated by the coil when the coil conducts a current. |
| US09341177B2 |
Air compressor system and method of operation
Air compressor systems, upgrade kits, computer readable medium, and methods for controlling an air compressor for improved performance. The methods may include receiving a working air requirement; determining an estimated air pressure of the air compressor to deliver the working air requirement; measuring a pressure of the air compressor; comparing the measured pressure with the calculated estimated air pressure; if the measured pressure of the air compressor is greater than the determined estimated air pressure by a predetermined greater amount, then decreasing an output control of the air compressor; and if the measured pressure of the air compressor is less than the calculated estimated air pressure by a predetermined lesser amount then increasing the output control of the air compressor. The air compressor may be controlled based on a measured pressure of delivered working air. An oil control system may shut off oil to parts of the air compressor. |
| US09341164B2 |
Fixation of a heating mat to a blade of a wind turbine
A blade for a wind turbine includes at least one heating mat for generating heat, wherein the heating mat is mounted at an outer surface of the blade. The blade further includes at least one through-hole running from an inner space of the blade to the outer surface of the blade. The blade further has at least one conductive element, wherein the conductive element is electrically coupled to the heating mat. The conductive element is inserted in the through-hole for generating an electric connection between the inner space and the outer surface. |
| US09341157B2 |
Catalytic fuel igniter
A catalytic fuel igniter is compatible with internal combustion engines and other chemical fuel operated systems. The catalytic fuel igniter does not require electrical components typically required for such systems, thus reducing complexity. The catalytic fuel igniter includes a catalyst in a controlled environment which ignites the fuel and air at the proper time for engine operation. In one embodiment the fuel is a hydrogen fuel and the catalytic fuel igniter is a hydrogen fuel igniter. |
| US09341153B2 |
System and method for internal cooling of a fuel injector
A fuel injector includes an injector body forming an actuator portion. An actuator bore is formed in the actuator portion and is at least partially defined by an inner surface and by an end surface. An actuator disposed in the actuator bore and has an outer surface such that a flow channel can be defined between the inner surface of the actuator bore and the outer surface of the actuator. A cooling flow passage is formed in the injector body, in fluid communication with the actuator bore, and is adapted to supply cooling fluid to the actuator bore. A drain passage is formed in the injector body, in fluid communication with the actuator bore. An internal cooling fluid flow path extends from the cooling flow passage, through the flow channel, and from the flow channel through the drain passage. |
| US09341147B2 |
Engine-off refueling detection method
A method for an engine fuel system comprises, during an engine-off condition, indicating a refueling event based on a rate of change in fuel tank pressure, and aborting a diagnostic leak detection test based on the refueling event indication. Indicating a refueling event further comprises indicating a refueling event based on the rate of change in fuel tank pressure being greater than a first threshold when the canister vent valve is open, and greater than a second threshold when the canister vent valve is closed, the first threshold being less than the second threshold. |
| US09341146B2 |
Exhaust-gas recirculation module for an internal combustion engine
An exhaust-gas recirculation module for an internal combustion engine includes an outer housing, an exhaust-gas cooler comprising an inner housing arranged within the outer housing, an exhaust-gas recirculation valve arranged upstream of the exhaust-gas cooler, an exhaust-gas duct formed in the outer housing arranged upstream of the exhaust-gas recirculation valve, and a coolant channel arranged between the inner housing and the exhaust-gas duct. |
| US09341145B2 |
Supercharged turbocompound hybrid engine apparatus
The present invention is relative to a engine apparatus comprising a combustion engine, a low pressure compressor connected to a high pressure turbine. The apparatus also comprises a low pressure turbine and a high pressure compressor. The engine apparatus according to the invention comprises an electrical torque converter comprising at least an electric generator connected so as to be driven by said low pressure turbine and a first electric motor connected so as to drive said high pressure compressor. The torque converter also comprises electronic conversion means suitable to convert the electric energy produce by said electric generator and to power supply and control at least said first electric motor. |
| US09341144B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine and method therefor
An apparatus controls an internal combustion engine provided with an EGR device having an EGR passage and an EGR valve that is provided in the EGR passage and can adjust an EGR amount. This apparatus includes a controller that estimates state parameters of the internal combustion engine that affect the behavior of the EGR gas within a predetermined period of time; sets constraints on the EGR amount within the predetermined period on the basis of an approximated dynamics obtained by approximating a true dynamics, which is a transition of the EGR amount within the predetermined period, so that approximated values do not exceed the true dynamics; determines a target value of the EGR amount according to the estimated state parameters within a range of the EGR amount on which the constraints that have been set; and controls the EGR valve so that the EGR amount becomes the determined target value. |
| US09341142B2 |
Beam for a cascade thrust reverser
The present disclosure relates to a beam, in particular for a cascade thrust reverser, including a skin made of a composite material and defining a closed section, wherein said beam is filled with a core material. |
| US09341140B2 |
Variable area mechanism with angular trailing edges
A variable area mechanism and methods are disclosed. A movable surface comprising a contoured interface surface is operable to rotate about an off-body axis-of-rotation such that the movable surface expands from and retracts into an angle notched surface. |
| US09341138B2 |
Engine assembly for a motor vehicle in general and particularly for an urban motor vehicle
An engine assembly (6) of the type running on liquid air or another gas that is substantially inert in liquefied state, for a vehicle in general and for an urban motor vehicle in particular, such as a bus (1) or a taxi, comprises a Stirling engine (9), in which the gasification of the liquid air takes place, with transformation into kinetic mechanical energy of the latent heat relative to the change in state of the air from liquid state to compressed gas state, as well as a volumetric or flow motor (11), in which the air in compressed state expands up to a pressure substantially equal to atmospheric pressure, with transformation of the mechanical pressure energy into kinetic mechanical energy. |
| US09341137B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine
The present invention relates to a piston (10) for an internal combustion engine, comprising a piston head (11) and a piston skirt (16), with a cooling channel (15) arranged in the piston head (11) and with at least one bore (17) opening into the cooling channel (15), a conduit (18) for a cooling oil jet (A) being housed in the bore. According to the invention, a jet divider (19) is arranged at the first free end (18a) of the conduit (18) and, in the area of the second free end (18b) of the conduit (18), the outer lateral surface of conduit (18) has a contact surface (24) that lies, secured against torsion, against an inner surface (25) of the piston (10). |
| US09341136B2 |
Engine having composite cylinder block
An engine is provided. The engine includes a thermal set composite cylinder block including a front engine cover attachment interface and a transmission attachment interface and a cylinder liner integrally molded with the composite cylinder block, the cylinder liner defining a portion of a boundary of a cylinder. The engine further includes a bulkhead insert extending through the thermal set composite cylinder block and is directly coupled to a cylinder head. |
| US09341134B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
A control apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes a fuel injection valve having a nozzle body that includes a fuel receiving part provided at a downstream side of a seat part with which a seat contact part comes into contact, and a plurality of nozzle holes. The control apparatus executes one or a plurality of small injections during one cycle in addition to main injection. Further, the control apparatus increases fuel injection amount of a first small injection at the current cycle at the time of low load operation while decreases the fuel injection amount of the first small injection at the time of high load operation, when post injection has not been executed in the last cycle and the small injection is executed first at the current cycle in a case in which a variation in the learned value for fuel injection amount is present. |
| US09341132B2 |
System for controlling an after-treatment system (ATS) temperature of a combustion engine
System for controlling an after-treatment system (ATS) temperature of a combustion engine, comprising means for carrying out an after-treatment warm up procedure, the system providing the interruption/inhibition of such warm-up means after a time period from the warm up procedure starting. |
| US09341130B2 |
Vehicle control device
A vehicle control device for controlling an engine and an electric pump includes a relay having a contact part for connecting and disconnecting a power source to the electric pump, an engine stop instruction switch provided between the power source and a coil part of the relay for connecting and disconnecting the power source to and from the coil part. A control unit for controlling the engine and the relay and determining whether or not operation of the engine stop instruction switch is made. The control unit includes a port to which the coil part and a drive part are connected for switching current application of the coil part, a detection part for detecting a current flowing to the port, and a determiner for determining whether or not the operation of the engine stop instruction switch is made based on a detection result of the detection part. |
| US09341127B2 |
Multivariable low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation control
Methods and systems are provided for adjusting a LP-EGR valve and an LP intake throttle to provide a desired LP-EGR flow rate while maintaining a minimum differential pressure. In one example, a method for a turbocharged engine method comprises: responsive to a differential between intake and exhaust pressure below a threshold, adjusting a LP-EGR valve while adjusting a LP intake throttle to regulate a LP-EGR flow rate and the differential to respective setpoints; and responsive to the differential above the threshold, saturating the LP-EGR valve to minimize the differential while actuating the throttle to regulate the flow rate to its setpoint. In this way, control of the LP-EGR system may be more robust to disturbances at very low differential pressures, require less actuator movement, and increase fuel economy. |
| US09341126B2 |
Adjustments for engine spark using remote data
External data from a second computer external to a vehicle is received in an in-vehicle computer comprising a processor and a memory. At least one derived datum is generated from at least some of the external data. The at least one derived datum is used to make an adjustment to engine performance. |
| US09341120B2 |
Channeled spring seal for sealing an air gap between moving plates
A sealed joint may include a first plate with a seal land, a second plate that moves relative to the seal land, and a seal connected to the second plate. The seal may extend laterally between a first seal end and a second seal end. The seal may include a plurality of seal elements that extend longitudinally between a first seal side and a second seal side. A first of the seal elements may extend laterally from the first seal end towards a first seal segment, which is separated from the second plate by an airflow channel. The second of the seal elements may extend laterally from the second seal end towards a second seal segment, which is located between and engaged with the first seal segment and the seal land. |
| US09341117B2 |
Combined sump service
A combined sump structure in an engine, the combined sump structure comprises a sump area comprising one or more sumps, a single oil supply provided for all sumps, and a combined sump drain. |
| US09341116B2 |
Gas turbine engine comprising means for axially retaining a fan of the engine
A gas turbine engine including: a casing in which is mounted at least one shaft for driving a fan solidly connected to a driving drum including blades to compress an airflow moving from upstream to downstream in the engine; and an axial retention mechanism, on standby, solidly connected to the casing and arranged to come into contact with the driving drum such as to prevent axial movement of the drum in event of breakage of the driving shaft. |
| US09341106B2 |
Cooling apparatus for engine system and control method therefor
A cooling system for an engine system includes an engine coolant path inside an internal combustion engine and a turbine coolant path inside a turbocharger. A switching section is selectively switched to one of a first operation mode, in which coolant in the cooling system is permitted to flow through the engine coolant path and the turbine coolant path, and a second operation mode, in which the coolant in the cooling system is permitted to flow only through the engine coolant path, while not being permitted to flow through the turbine coolant path. When the switching section is in the first operation mode and a basic flow rate calculated based on an engine operating state is larger than an actual flow rate detected by a flow rate sensor by at least a determination amount, the switching section is switched to the second operation mode. |
| US09341105B2 |
Engine cooling system control
Methods and systems are provided for expediting engine system heating by stagnating coolant in one of a plurality of loops in an engine cooling system. Degradation of the various valves and thermostats of the cooling system can be diagnosed by adjusting the valve and monitoring changes in one or more of coolant temperature, transmission temperature and cabin temperature. Based on engine operating conditions, the various valves may be adjusted to vary coolant temperature in different regions of the cooling system, thereby providing fuel economy benefits. |
| US09341104B2 |
Impingement cooling of cylinders in opposed-piston engines
A cylinder cooling construction includes a cylinder liner with a sidewall, exhaust and intake ports opening through the sidewall, a bore, and a plurality of feed channels that are formed with and extend along the sidewall from a central band of the cylinder toward the exhaust and intake ports. A sleeve covering the sidewall includes a plurality of impingement jet ports that are arranged in at least one sequence extending around the central band and that are in liquid communication with the plurality of feed channels. An annular member disposed between the liner and the sleeve reinforces the central band. The sleeve further includes an inside surface with spaced-apart annular recesses that with the sidewall define liquid coolant reservoirs in the vicinity of the ports that are in liquid communication with the feed channels. Channels through bridges of exhaust port have first ends in liquid communication with the coolant reservoir in the vicinity of the exhaust port and second ends that open through a portion of an exhaust end of the cylinder. |
| US09341099B2 |
Emissions cleaning module
An emissions cleaning module includes a flow conduit having an upstream end fluidly connected to a source of exhaust fluid and a downstream end fluidly connected to a mixer module. An injector module has an outlet orientated to inject injection fluid into the flow conduit upstream the mixer module. A low pressure cavity downstream the injector module outlet is fluidly connected to the flow conduit or the mixer module by an open mouth orientated such that a flow of exhaust fluid along the flow conduit flows over the open mouth creating a pressure reduction within the low pressure cavity. |
| US09341098B2 |
Automotive catalytic aftertreatment system
A catalytic aftertreatment system for a diesel engine exhaust gas is described. The system comprises a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and an aftertreatment device located downstream of the diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), which aftertreatment device requires periodic heat treatment, and means to generate a temperature increase within the aftertreatment device, said diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) comprising an upstream zone of length from 0.5 to 2 inches (12.7-50.81 mm) of higher oxidation activity for hydrocarbons (HC) than the remainder of the diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC). |
| US09341097B2 |
Reductant material deposit reduction in exhaust aftertreatment systems
In one non-limiting embodiment, an apparatus for treating exhaust includes a reductant injector, an aftertreatment component including a NOx reduction catalyst, and a pathway for directing exhaust to the aftertreatment component. The pathway includes a constriction zone within which is positioned a mixing member. The constriction zone begins downstream of the reductant injector and upstream from the aftertreatment component. However, other embodiments, forms and applications are also envisioned. |
| US09341092B2 |
Exhaust valve assembly for a two-stroke internal combustion engine
An exhaust valve assembly for a two-stroke internal combustion engine has a valve actuator having a first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber, and a valve operatively connected to the valve actuator. The first and second pressure chambers are adapted for selectively receiving one of a first pressure and a second pressure. The first pressure is higher than the second pressure. The valve actuator moves the valve between at least a first valve position and a second valve position. The valve actuator moves the valve to the first valve position when the first pressure is supplied to the first pressure chamber and the second pressure is supplied to the second pressure chamber. The valve actuator moves the valve to the second valve position when the second pressure is supplied to the first pressure chamber and the first pressure is supplied to the second pressure chamber. |
| US09341090B2 |
Oscillating-motor camshaft adjuster having a hydraulic valve
An oscillating-motor camshaft adjuster which provides that, through software, camshaft alternating torque is utilized only in conditions where the torque is adequate and/or it is important to reduce flow consumption. If there is two step lift and the camshaft alternating torque is not adequate in low lift, software can position the spool to utilize some camshaft alternating torque while also tanking oil to speed up the phasing. |
| US09341089B2 |
Camshaft phaser
A camshaft phaser that includes a rotor and a sprocket. A plurality of lobes of the sprocket are spaced to receive a plurality of vanes of the rotor, thereby defining retard and advance pressure chambers when the rotor rotates with respect to the sprocket between retard and advance positions. When the rotor rotates between the retard and advance positions, gap surfaces of the lobes cooperate with gap surfaces of the vanes to form fluid gaps therebetween, wings of the lobes fit into receiving surfaces of the vanes, and stop surfaces of the vanes abut the sides of the lobes. |
| US09341088B2 |
Camshaft phaser control systems and methods
A control system for a vehicle includes a motor driver module, a correlation triggering module, a target phase angle module, and a correlation control module. The motor driver module controls an electric camshaft phaser of an engine based on a desired phase angle between a position of a crankshaft and a position of a camshaft. The correlation triggering module selectively generates a signal based on the position of the camshaft. The target phase angle module adjusts the desired phase angle to a predetermined phase angle in response to the generation of the signal. The correlation control module, in response to the generation of the signal: determines the position of the crankshaft when the camshaft is in a predetermined position; and selectively outputs a fault indicator based on a comparison of the position of the crankshaft and a predetermined crankshaft position range corresponding to the predetermined position. |
| US09341084B2 |
Supercritical carbon dioxide power cycle for waste heat recovery
Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide heat engine systems and methods for recovering energy, such as by generating electricity from thermal energy. In one configuration, a heat engine system contains a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) within a working fluid circuit, two heat exchangers configured to be thermally coupled to a heat source (e.g., waste heat), two expanders, two recuperators, two pumps, a condenser, and a plurality of valves configured to switch the system between single/dual-cycle modes. In another aspect, a method for recovering energy may include monitoring a temperature of the heat source, operating the heat engine system in the dual-cycle mode when the temperature is equal to or greater than a threshold value, and subsequently, operating the heat engine system in the single-cycle mode when the temperature is less than the threshold value. |
| US09341080B2 |
Gas turbine engine with geared turbofan and oil thermal management system
A gas turbine engine includes a fan, a compressor section, a combustion section, and a turbine section. A fan drive gear system is configured for driving the fan at a speed different than the turbine section. A lubricant system includes a lubricant pump delivering lubricant to an outlet line. The outlet line splits into at least a hot line and into a cool line. The hot line is directed primarily to locations in the gas turbine engine that are not intended to receive cooler lubricant. The cool line is directed through one or more heat exchangers at which the lubricant is cooled, and the cool line then is routed to the fan drive gear system. At least one of the one or more heat exchangers is a fuel/oil cooler at which lubricant will be cooled by fuel leading to the combustion section. The fuel/oil cooler is downstream of a point where the outlet line splits into the at least the hot line and the cool line, such that the hot line is not directed through the fuel/oil cooler. A method is also disclosed. |
| US09341079B2 |
Rolling bearing for aircraft turbojet fitted with improved means of axial retention of its outer ring
A structure for an aircraft turbojet including a rolling bearing including an outer ring, a bearing bracket, a retaining ring interposed between the ring and the bracket, a mechanism to connect the ring onto the bracket incorporating an attaching flange installed on the bearing bracket, a flexible connection attached to the ring and to the flange, and a mechanism enabling axial retention of the ring, in event the flexible connection fractures. The mechanism enabling axial retention includes a first stop securely attached to the retaining ring and capable of axially retaining this retaining ring relative to the bracket, and a second stop securely attached to the retaining ring, and capable of axially retaining the ring relative to the retaining ring. |
| US09341078B2 |
Blade for a turbo machine having labyrinth seal cooling passage
A blade for a turbomachine, for example a gas turbine, is provided. The blade is arranged on a turbine rotor of the gas turbine. The blade includes a root portion having two narrow sides and two broad sides, a cooling air supply passage in the root portion, and a cooling air bleed which is arranged in the root portion and is in fluid connection with the cooling air supply passage. The cooling air bleed includes a nozzle on one of the narrow sides of the root portion, wherein the nozzle is formed by a hole and wherein an axial direction of the hole is inclined upward between 92° and 135° with respect to a longitudinal direction of the blade. |
| US09341077B2 |
Assembly comprising a shaft seal
A shaft seal includes more than one sealing module, at least one fluid supply and a fluid discharge, and a main seal which is subject to a greatest partial pressure difference. A second main seal is a radial double seal, which includes two gas seals, each gas seal having a rotating sealing surface and a stationary sealing surface, wherein the two sealing surface pairs are located opposite each other in a sealing plan, and wherein the two sealing planes have substantially radial extension to the shaft. |
| US09341076B2 |
Surge margin control
A gas turbine engine control system comprising a variable stator vane schedule for normal operation of the gas turbine engine. The system is configured to generate an arm signal indicating potential shaft break. Then the system is configured to alter the variable stator vane schedule to slew each variable stator vane to decrease the available surge margin in response to the arm signal. Or the system is configured to limit a response rate of a variable stator vane actuator in response to the arm signal. Or the system is configured to alter the variable stator vane schedule and limit the response rate of the actuator. |
| US09341070B2 |
Shield slot on side of load slot in gas turbine engine rotor
A rotor body rotates about an axis of rotation. A ledge provides a holding structure for holding blades. A plurality of blades are positioned beneath the ledge. A load slot is sized to allow a mount portion of the blades to be moved radially inwardly of the ledge. The blades are moved circumferentially to have the mounted structure radially inwardly of the ledge. A lock slot is positioned on one circumferential side of the load slot. The lock slot is formed to receive a lock, and the lock is partially received within a portion of at least one of the blades, to lock the blades within the rotor, and a shield slot on a second circumferential side of the load slot. The shield slot is sized to be different from the lock slot such that a lock cannot be inadvertently positioned within the shield slot. |
| US09341067B2 |
Blade arrangement and associated gas turbine
A blade arrangement with a rotor and a plurality of blades which are distributed in a ring along the circumference of the rotor is provided. Two immediately adjacent blades of the ring form a blade pair, between the blades of which a damping element is arranged, and wherein the respective damping element comes into contact with the two blades of the blade pair assigned to them during a rotation of the rotor about a rotor axis as a result of a centrifugal force which acts in the radial direction. In order to bring about frequency detuning of the oscillation properties of blades, as a result of which machining of the turbine blade becomes unnecessary, it is proposed that the blade ring has at least two blade pairs with different damping elements. |
| US09341063B2 |
Fluid device with roll pockets alternatingly pressurized at different pressures
A method for pressurizing a roll pocket of a displacement assembly of a fluid device includes providing a fluid device having a displacement assembly. The displacement assembly includes a ring defining a central bore and roll pockets disposed about the central bore. Rolls are disposed in the roll pockets. A rotor is disposed in the central bore. The ring, the rolls and the rotor define a plurality of expanding and contracting volume chambers. Fluid is communicated from a first port of the fluid device and a second port of the fluid device to each of the roll pockets so that when the volume chamber immediately before one of the roll pockets and the volume chamber immediately after that roll pocket are both in fluid communication with one of the first and second ports, that roll pocket is in fluid communication with the other of the first and second ports. |
| US09341062B2 |
Electropneumatic field device
In an electropneumatic field device for controlling a pneumatic actuator, an energy transducer is provided which converts pneumatic energy into electrical energy. The energy transducer has a working chamber with a pneumatic compressed air inlet via which a compressed air impulse is introduced, a reset chamber, a coil, an armature separating the working chamber and the reset chamber and guided for translational back and forth movement, and a permanent magnet so that electric energy is induced in the coil. The pneumatic compressed air inlet is configured such that the compressed air impulse leaving the compressed air inlet has an inflow direction angle into the working chamber which has an axial angular direction component which is parallel to a translational axial movement direction of the armature. |
| US09341060B2 |
Method and system for permeability calculation using production logs for horizontal wells
A method for permeability calculation includes determining fluid properties associated with a horizontal well, relative permeability to oil and relative permeability to water, for the horizontal well, and an approximate upper boundary and an approximate lower boundary of the horizontal well. In accordance with a particular embodiment, the horizontal well may be divided into a plurality of well segments. Actual production logging data associated with the horizontal well may be received at an interface. For each respective well segment, a horizontal permeability is calculated using the fluid properties, relative permeability to oil, relative permeability to water and actual production logging data. |
| US09341057B2 |
Apparatus and method of distributed pressure sensing
Various embodiments include apparatus and methods to measure pressure using an optical fiber. The optical fiber can be structured with fiber Bragg gratings arranged along the optical fiber. Optical signals can be transmitted through the optical fiber, where the optical signals have a wavelength of a slow-light peak of a respective one of the fiber Bragg gratings. Signals resulting from the optical signals transmitted through the optical fiber can be detected and a value of pressure from the detected signals can be determined. |
| US09341056B2 |
Discharge pressure monitoring system
A pressure monitoring method comprising providing wellbore servicing equipment comprising a pump, a discharge flow path configured to discharge fluid from the pump, a discharge pressure monitoring system comprising a transducer in pressure communication with the discharge flow path, and an electronic circuit in electrical communication with the transducer and a monitoring system, collecting an electrical signal indicative of the pressure within the discharge flow path, processing the electrical signal to generate an upper pressure envelope signal, wherein the upper pressure envelope signal is representative of a high pressure within the discharge flow path over a predetermined duration of time, and comparing the upper pressure envelope signal to a predetermined upper threshold. |
| US09341054B2 |
System for monitoring linearity of down-hole pumping systems during deployment and related methods
Systems, program product, and methods for monitoring linearity of a down-hole pumping system assembly during deployment within a bore of a casing of a well positioned to extract hydrocarbons from a subterranean reservoir and selecting an optimal operational position for the down-hole pumping system assembly within the bore of the casing, are provided. Various embodiments of the systems allow an operator to ensure that a motor and pump of a down-hole pumping system assembly are installed in an optimal position in a well by ensuring alignment across the pump stages casing and motor casing. The system includes a groove extending along an outer surface of a housing of the pumping system assembly, and an optical sensing fiber mounted in the groove. |
| US09341053B2 |
Multi-layer sensors for downhole inspection
An example downhole tool includes a tool body and a multi-layer sensor coupled to the tool body. The multi-layer sensor may include a first transmitter coupled to a first conformable element and a first receiver coupled to a second conformable element. One of the first conformable element and the second conformable element may overlay the other of the first conformable element and the second conformable element. |
| US09341051B2 |
Methods for enhancing efficiency of bitumen extraction from oil sands using lipids and lipid by-products as process additives
In a method for enhancing the efficiency of separation of bitumen from oil sands ore, lipids, lipid by-products, and lipid derivatives are used as process additives for ore-water slurry-based bitumen extraction processes or in situ bitumen recovery processes. These additives act as surfactants reducing surface and interfacial tensions, thus promoting breakdown the oil sands ore structure and resultant liberation of bitumen from the ore. Lipid treatment does not deleteriously affect release water chemistry in bitumen recovery processes, and it does not appreciably affect the fuel value of recovered bitumen. Lipids which may be effectively used as additives include biodiesel, tall oil fatty acids, monoglycerides, vegetable oil, and soap water, and combinations thereof. Lipids may also be used as process additives to enhance the efficiency of clean-up of hydrocarbon-contaminated soils, in the production of bitumen-water or oil-water emulsions, and to enhance the transportability of emulsions such as in pipelines. |
| US09341049B2 |
Controlled production and injection
A well production and injection string includes a plurality of spaced apart packers each adapted to seal with a wall of the wellbore. A plurality of flow control devices are provided in the string, distributed between pairs of adjacent packers. The flow control devices are adapted to communicate flow between an interior and an exterior of the string with less restriction to flow from the interior to the exterior of the string than to flow from the exterior to the interior of the string. |
| US09341045B1 |
Configurable subsea tree master valve block
A pre-machined forging for use with a subsea hydrocarbon assembly includes a common master valve block. The common master valve block has an upper cylindrical portion with a main central axis. A lower cylindrical portion of the common master valve block includes a lower axis that is parallel to, and offset from, the main central axis. A valve portion of the common master valve block is located axially between the upper cylindrical portion and the lower cylindrical portion. A main bore extends axially through the common master valve block from a bottom end of the common master valve block to a top end of the common master valve block along the main central axis. |
| US09341044B2 |
Self-energized seal or centralizer and associated setting and retraction mechanism
A self energizing structure can function as a centralizer or as a seal when allowed to spring out after a retainer is moved away from an overlying position for run in to protect the structure. Segments extend from a common base ring and are radially offset during run in. Alternating segments have landing surfaces on opposed ends such that on release of the structure the intervening segments land on such surfaces to form a cohesive single layer with all segments circumferentially aligned and against a surrounding tubular or the borehole wall. The structure is held retracted with a bi-directionally movable sleeve operable in a variety of ways from the surface. Internally the sleeve has splines to push the segments with the landing surfaces back so that the structure can collapse back into the sleeve for removal. Structures can be stacked and used as centralizers with alternating segments removed. |
| US09341041B2 |
Cutting device, safety valve, method and uses for severing a pipe-string-related object in a safety valve for a well
A cutting device, safety valve and method are for severing an object in the safety valve for a well, wherein the cutting device is structured for incorporation in the safety valve. The cutting device and the safety valve comprise a housing having a through bore structured for passing the object therethrough.The cutting device/safety valve comprises at least one induction coil device disposed in the housing, and around at least a portion of the bore of the housing.The induction coil device is directed inwards in the direction of the bore and is structured for optional, cutting-promoting heating, hence thermal structural weakening, of the object when located vis-à-vis the induction coil device.The induction coil device is structured in a manner allowing it to be connected to at least one electric power source for supply of electric power for heating.The housing comprises a heat-insulating portion disposed between the induction coil device and the housing. |
| US09341037B2 |
Autochoke system
Back pressure control devices used to control fluid pressure in a wellbore require various utilities for operation, such as an air supply. With the use of an air supply, the continued operation of one or more back pressure control devices may be achieved when supply of utilities for operation of the back pressure control devices are intentionally or unintentionally interrupted. |
| US09341034B2 |
Method for assembly of well heaters
A method for assembly of a well heater including injecting a length of coiled tubing into a well, supporting the coiled tubing in the well and cutting the coiled tubing above the well head; injecting one or more resistive heating cables into the into the coiled tubing; constructing a cable support structure at the cut end of the coiled tubing for supporting the weight of the cables against the inner sidewall of the coiled tubing; cutting the cables and configuring the cut ends of the cables for connection to an electrical source, thereby defining the structure of the well heater; and withdrawing the well heater from the well. |
| US09341032B2 |
Centralizer with collaborative spring force
A centralizer for centralizing a pipe is provided which collaborates the spring force of its bow springs. The centralizer includes a pair of end collars, and at least one center collar. Each of the collars has a center hole for coaxially receiving a pipe. In addition, the centralizer includes a plurality of longitudinally extending and arcuate bow springs having ends which affix to the end collars. The centralizer includes linkage arms which connect the center collar to the bow springs. The linkage arms may provide additional outward spring force against the bow springs. Preferably, the centralizer includes a mechanism for forcing the bow springs radially inward from their at rest position. |
| US09341028B2 |
Counterweight assembly for a self-propelled derrick rig assembly
Improvements to base beams and self-propelled derrick rigs are described. The base beam can have two or more stabilizer arms which can be deployed. The base beam is also designed to support the derrick rig. An optional counterweight assembly can be connected to the front of the rig. The self-propelled derrick rig can be easily and quickly mounted to the base beam, and when mounted, the assembly will be able to withstand high hook loads and wind loading without the danger of the rig coming off of its wheels or falling over. |
| US09341020B1 |
Single pull-cord controller of roman shade
A single pull-cord controller of roman shade comprises: a main control unit, a winding member, a first shaft member, a second shaft member, an inner bushing, an outer bushing, and a coupling unit. By the single pull-cord controller of the present invention, the up-down operation of the roman shade can be controlled by the pulling or releasing of a single pull-cord, and the pull-cord after manipulation can be wound within the controller by the recovery of the clock spring. Therefore, dangerous state of strangulation by wrapping around children's neck can be effectively avoided to achieve the object of safety precaution. |
| US09341018B2 |
Combined flood proof door and window
A flood proof door and window unit includes a sealing flange around at least a portion of the perimeter of the door. A flood proof window is positioned within a cut out formed in the door. The window assembly is water tight so that the unit may be used in applications where it is desirable to provide a transparent window in a flood proof door. |
| US09341014B2 |
Information communication method using change in luminance
An information communication method that enables communication between various devices is an information communication method of transmitting a signal using a change in luminance, and includes: determining a pattern of the change in luminance, by modulating the signal to be transmitted; and transmitting the signal, by a plurality of light emitters changing in luminance according to the determined pattern of the change in luminance, wherein the plurality of light emitters are arranged on a surface so that a non-luminance change area does not extend across the surface between the plurality of light emitters along at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction of the surface, the non-luminance change area being an area in the surface outside the plurality of light emitters and not changing in luminance. |
| US09341011B2 |
Adjustable mounting device for a sliding element and sliding device
Mounting device includes a connecting bolt, plate-shaped sliding element connectable to a carriage held displaceable in a running rail. Mounting device includes holding rail, mountable in recess at upper side of the sliding element, and holding device held releasably in the holding rail, includes bearing device, adjustment screw is rotatably held, adjustment screw includes a screw shaft, aligned along screw axis, engages in threaded member of track body, movable along screw axis and includes two track walls aligned parallel to one another and include each a track element, which guide elements are engaged that are connected to connecting bolt, held in guide member displaceable along guide axis. Track sledge is equipped on opposite sides with guide elements engaged in track element of track body and connecting bolt includes first connecting part held in track sledge, second connecting part held in guide member and third connecting part connectable to carriage. |
| US09341004B2 |
Cycle accessory
The invention relates to a dual use cycle accessory which may adopt a first folded configuration in which it forms a mudguard and a second unfolded configuration in which is comprises tow free ends (101, 201) which may be locked together to form a locked loop suitable for locking a cycle, preferably a bicycle, to a stationary object. Thus in accordance with one aspect, of the invention there is provided a dual use cycle accessory device comprising a plurality of elongate rigid members (1, 2, 3, 4) that are articulated one to another so that the rigid members (1, 2, 3, 4) may be arranged in a first folded configuration in which at least some of the members are arranged side by side to define an elongate mudguard and a second extended configuration in which at least some of the members are arranged in series so that a free end region of one member 1, 10) and a free end region of another distal member (4, 404) may be looped together, and wherein said free end regions (19,404) are adapted to be lockable together to form an elongate looped cycle lock (8). The rigid elongate members preferably have a generally planar configuration with a greater width than depth. |
| US09340995B2 |
Eave structure for a foldable tent
A retractable eave structure of a foldable tent includes a pole assembly having a first end and an opposing second end. The pole assembly first end is pivotally coupled to a hub for pivotal movement between an open state and a folded state of the foldable tent. The pole assembly is retractable such that a length between the first and second ends is adjustable between the open and folded states of the foldable tent. An eave portion of the foldable tent is constructed of tent fabric and fixedly attached to and extends from a main portion of the foldable tent. The eave portion includes an outer perimeter having a housing portion. The outer end of the pole assembly is fixed within the housing portion such that in the open state the pole assembly is extended and the eave portion is substantially taut. |
| US09340994B2 |
Portable shelter with outer vinyl and low emissivity layers
A portable shelter with low emissivity is provided for sheltering materials or human occupants at a remote location. The shelter has a flexible, multi-layer cover, including a vinyl material, reflective material located inside and immediately adjacent to the vinyl material, and insulation material located inside the reflective material. The low-ε vinyl cover is lightweight and thermally efficient. The shelter may be adapted for use with interior-climate control equipment at the remote location. |
| US09340991B2 |
Methods and apparatus for supporting a column
The present invention comprises an anchored support to buttress a column, comprising at least one rigid member configured to be coupled to at least one section of a column; and at least an additional rigid member configured to be detachably coupled to the at least one rigid member and configured to be positioned at least partially within a supportive medium, wherein the at least an additional rigid member comprises a structure configured to prevent rotation of the at least an additional member. |
| US09340988B2 |
Pool or spa drain cover
A pool drain cover includes a center hub which can be rotated with respect to an outer portion. A twisting of the center hub causes multiple (e.g., three or more) engagement arm assemblies to extend such that their distal ends engage the inner surface of a pool drain pipe, thereby holding the pool drain cover in place. The distal ends of the engagement arms may be provided with an anti-slip coating such as, for example, vinyl, rubber, etc., and/or an anti-slip finish. Alternatively, a metal (e.g., stainless steel) tab extending from the distal end of each of the engagement arm assemblies can be provided. The engagement arm assemblies can be released by twisting the center hub in the opposite direction, thereby permitting the pool drain cover to be removed. |
| US09340987B2 |
Method of creating variable rideable waves
A ride is formed comprising a channel forming a closed loop. The channel is able to receive water. Wave forming means are provided operable to create a wave, when the channel contains water, such that the wave will progress around the channel. The wave is of sufficient size to enable aquatic pastimes to be performed on the wave. |
| US09340985B1 |
Method for making flooring using waste lumber
A method for creating a parquet flooring is disclosed where scrap slats of wood from a woodworking manufacturing operation are collected and cut into blocks of a uniform length. The blocks are then arranged into tiles having a staggered pattern. The parquet tiles are then interlocking together by rotating one of the tiles into a complimentary pattern to create a flooring. |
| US09340979B2 |
Roof covering element (tile-like sheet) equipped with embossments
A roof covering element (a tile-like sheet) equipped with embossments according to the present invention characterizes in that the surface of the lower edge (2) of the roof covering element (1) has at least one embossment (3) done downwards and inwards in relation to the roof covering element (1) with an assembling hole (4) prepared centrally. A bottom of that embossment (3) is at zero or acute angle with the surface of the lower edge (2). The surface of the upper edge (5) of the roof covering element (1) has at least one embossment (6) done downwards and inwards in relation to the covering element (1) with an assembling hole (7) prepared centrally. A bottom of that embossment (6), preferably of circular shape, is at zero or acute angle with the surface of the upper edge (5). |
| US09340976B2 |
Suspended ceiling
A modular ceiling comprising first and second main runners defining an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface defining a longitudinal retaining cavity along the first main runner and two grooves disposed parallel to and, respectively, on each side from the longitudinal retaining cavity; a cross member installable at an angle from the main runners and adapted to connect the first main runner with the second main runner, the cross member being secured to the main runners by a cross member fastener having a cross runner anchor adapted to engage the groove defined in main runners; and a panel adapted to be disposed between main runners and being supported, at least in part, by main runners. |
| US09340974B2 |
Mechanical locking of floor panels
Floor panels are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system comprising tongue and grooves provided with protrusions and cavities which are displaceable in relation to each other and configured such that the protrusions can obtain a vertically unlocked position where they match the cavities and a vertically locked position where the protrusions overlap each other. |
| US09340971B2 |
Advanced inorganic material for reflection of electromagnetic waves
This invention provides a composition for thermal insulation, comprising magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC) and air-filled glass or ceramic beads, and a method of preparing said composition. The composition may further comprise one or more additives selected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, fly ash, pigment, potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4) and sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH2PO4). |
| US09340970B2 |
Recycled rubber backed cushioned vinyl
A laminated surface covering including a facing material made of vinyl and a backing material comprising a rubber component. The rubber component comprising at least a matrix of bonded rubber granules. A bonding material disposed between the facing material and the backing material. The facing material configured to melt at a temperature between 165° F. and 210° F. infiltrating the backing material thereby essentially encasing the rubber granules of the matrix and providing fire retardation and smoke suppression qualities. |
| US09340967B2 |
Kit including self-supporting panels for assembling a modular structure
Panels can join to form a structural module via slotting, abutment, and rotational symmetry. The slots allow for assembly without additional fastening. Modules can range in shape and size, while conforming to the interlocking configuration between the panels. Panels can be joined to form various structures with similar connective features. The panel's combinability via the slots makes possible many structural forms and re-configurable applications. |
| US09340964B2 |
Toilet flange anchor
A toilet flange anchor provides a secure connection between a toilet flange and the floor when the hole in the floor about the flange is formed larger than the toilet flange itself. The toilet flange anchor includes first end that can be secured to the floor and a second end, adjustable in length, which can be secured to the toilet flange. The toilet flange anchor can be secured to the toilet flange with a screw and a T-nut, adjusted in length to allow the first end to reach the floor, the first end can then be attached to the floor with a screw and then the screw can be further tightened into the T-nut to form a secure connection between the toilet flange and the floor. |
| US09340959B2 |
Plumbing fixture with mixing valve and controller
A plumbing fixture includes a body and a mixing valve within the body. The mixing valve includes a first linear actuator for controlling a first flow control valve within the mixing valve and a second linear actuator for controlling a second flow control valve within the mixing valve. A controller is located within the body and is configured to send control signals to control actuation of the linear actuators. |
| US09340957B2 |
Shovel including a display device
A shovel includes a cabin in which a display monitor is provided, an upper-part turnable body that includes the cabin, an electric turning mechanism that causes the upper-part turnable body to turn, a turning electric motor that drives the electric turning mechanism, a detector that detects the state of driving of the electric turning mechanism, and a display control part configured to generate information to be displayed on the display monitor and cause the display monitor to display the generated information. The display control part is configured to calculate a physical quantity pertaining to an operation of the turning electric motor based on a detection value of the detector, generate turning operation display data for graphically representing the calculated physical quantity, and cause the display monitor to graphically display the generated turning operation display data. |
| US09340956B2 |
Boom lock system for work machine
A work vehicle includes a frame including generally upwardly extending laterally spaced side members. A boom structure includes a pair of arms pivotably connecting the boom structure to the frame. A pressurized fluid system is operably associated with the boom structure for raising and lowering jointly each of the arms along a path of travel adjacent a corresponding side member. A stop member selectably extends outwardly from at least one of the side members between a locking position and a retracted position, the locking position extending at least a portion of the stop member into the path of travel of a corresponding arm of the boom structure to prevent a lowering movement of the boom structure beyond a predetermined height. A boom lock system prevents the fluid system from applying a fluid force to lower the boom structure when the stop member is in the locking position. |
| US09340951B2 |
Apparatus for collecting surface seabed sediment and apparatus for collecting seabed sediment using the same
An apparatus for collecting surface seabed sediment. A cylindrical cover part is connected to a trigger, has an open bottom end, and has a position maintaining part disposed therein. A holder part is coupled with the position maintaining part, and has a longitudinal hollow space defined therein. A pipe-shaped sediment collecting part is detachably coupled at one end with a bottom end of the cover part, and has a receiving space defined therein, such that seabed sediment is accommodated within the receiving space. A head part is disposed at one end thereof on the other end of the sediment collecting part, has a hollow space defined therein, and has an insert blade on a periphery. A catcher part is disposed on an inner circumference of the head part, and allows seabed sediment to enter the receiving space of the sediment collecting part while preventing the collected sediment from being lost. |
| US09340950B2 |
Hydraulic fluid warm-up
A work vehicle including a hydraulic circuit having a cooled return line with a cooler, a bypass return line that bypasses the cooler on the cooled return line, and a controller that electronically controls the flow of hydraulic fluid between the cooled return line and the bypass return line. |
| US09340947B2 |
Perimeter pile anchor foundation
A perimeter pile anchor foundation is built by forming a plurality of individual perimeter pile anchors in a large generally circular pattern to form a perimeter wall. The individual pile anchors are contiguous, each pile overlapping the adjacent piles on either side. The overlapping pile anchors form an arch such that compression and friction between the pile anchors resist soil caving and sloughing pressure when soil inside the perimeter wall is excavated, enabling the perimeter pile foundation to be effectively constructed in weak saturated soils and/or cohesionless sands that will not allow conventional concrete foundation excavations. A concrete foundation ring is formed inside the pile perimeter wall to support a tall and/or heavy tower or other structure subject to high upset forces. |
| US09340945B1 |
Ground anchor device
One embodiment of an anchor device for ground application and of the type having a main shaft (28) which connects at its top with a ground plate (20) with oblong holes for additional shafts (22) so as to increase holding ability. In addition a coupler (24) connects to the top side of the anchor. Other possible embodiments are described. |
| US09340943B2 |
Method and tool for forming a seal in a block chamber of a sheet pile
A method and a tool (10) for forming a seal in a lock chamber (3) of a sheet pile are proposed. The method comprises the steps of: introducing a seal forming tool (10) into the lock chamber (3); injecting a sealing material into a distribution chamber (50) of the tool (10) from where it axially fills longitudinally extending recesses (38′, 38″, 38′″) in a seal-shaping module (12); and moving the tool (10) longitudinally through the lock chamber (3), whereby the sealing material is shaped by the seal-shaping module (12). The distribution chamber (50) is a closed chamber inside the tool (10) and spaced from the longitudinally extending recesses (38′, 38″, 38′″); and the tool (10) comprises moreover at least two distribution channels (52′, 52″, 52′″) connecting in parallel the distribution chamber (50) to the recesses (38′, 38″, 38′″), the parallel distribution channels (52′, 52″, 52′″) being fine-tuned for apportioning the flow of sealing material between the recesses (38′, 38″, 38′″). |
| US09340932B2 |
Soil compactor with storage space
A soil compactor, comprising a compaction roller (16) supported on a compaction frame (14) and rotatable around a rotational axis (D), wherein the compaction frame (14) comprises longitudinal frame areas on both sides of the compaction roller (16) in direction of the rotational axis (D) and a first cross frame area (34) connecting the longitudinal frame areas (30, 32) to each other and extending essentially in the direction of the rotational axis (D) is characterized in that at least one storage space (38) is provided in the first cross frame area (34), which is closed by means of a locking element (50) movable between a closed position and an open position. |
| US09340925B2 |
Splice systems and methods for ropes
A rope structure or method of forming a rope structure comprises a rope comprising a plurality of strands. The rope comprises first and second splice locations, an eye region between the first and second splice locations, and a main region. The main region of the rope is located adjacent to the first splice location and in an opposite direction along the rope from the eye region. At least one of the strands is a selected strand. An extracted portion of the at least one selected strand is extracted from the rope and inserted into the rope such that a bridge portion of the at least one selected strand extends between the first and second splice locations and a diameter of the rope is substantially consistent in the main region. |
| US09340923B2 |
Ink composition for ink jet textile printing and ink jet textile printing method
An ink composition for ink jet textile printing contains a reactive dye and water-soluble organic solvents including solvent A and at least one solvent B. Solvent A has a solubility of 10 g or more in 100 g of water at 20° C. and has no hydroxy group. Solvent B has a hydroxy group in the molecule thereof and has an IOB value of 2.9 or more and a Z1 value expressed by the following equation (1) of 18 or less. The total content Z2 of solvent A and solvents B in the ink composition is 3.8% by mass or more. Z 1 = ∑ i = 1 n ( 100 * Ii * Xi ) ( 1 ) wherein n represents the total number of solvents B in the ink composition, Ii represents the IOB value of solvent Bi that is any one of the solvents B, and Xi represents the ratio of the mass of solvent Bi to the total mass of the ink composition. |
| US09340922B2 |
Method of fabricating surface body having superhydrophobicity and hydrophilicity
A method of preparing a material having a superhydrophobic region and a hydrophobic region is described, involving preparing a superhydrophobic surface body and hydrolyzing one surface of the prepared superhydrophobic surface body using a strong base. Such preparation method is simpler than conventional preparation methods and is capable of preparing a material having opposite surface characteristics at low costs. |
| US09340921B2 |
Chiller box
A process for manufacturing robust, flexible sheet-like material, includes the steps of a) applying a waxy composition to the web to form a waxed web; b) leading the waxed web via at least one roller to a chiller; c) cooling the waxed web; and d) leading the waxed web to a collection station for collecting the waxed web for further processing. The waxy composition comprises about 10-60 wt-% of a waxy compound and about 90-40 wt-% of a diluent. The waxy compound is selected from the group consisting of A) monoesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a fatty acid; B) diesters of a polyhydric aliphatic alcohol and a fatty acid; and C) mixtures of said monoesters and diesters. The coating forms a stable liquid mixture at a temperature between about 35° C. and about 100° C., has a liquefaction temperature of at least about 30° C., and has a contact angle with a flat surface of the substrate of less than about 35° when measured at a temperature of 60° C. |
| US09340920B2 |
Handicraft tool for pressing or supporting cloth or fabric
A handicraft tool includes a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion. The first end and the second end are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the handicraft tool. The intermediate portion is positioned between the first end and the second end. The intermediate portion is in the form of a bar having a cross section that is uniform along the longitudinal direction. At least the surface of the intermediate portion is made of a thermosetting elastomer. |
| US09340918B2 |
Washing machine for auto-added washing agent by negative pressure and controlling method thereof
A washing machine for automatically adding the detergent by negative pressure comprises a water inlet, a detergent container and a tub. A main inflow waterway and a rinse waterway are provided between the water inlet and the tub. A dosing container which communicates with the detergent container is provided between the rinse waterway and the tub. A venturi tube is provided in the main inflow waterway. Due to venturi effect, the main inflow water stream becomes narrower and the water inflowing velocity is accelerated, so that a relative vacuum area which communicates with the dosing container is formed at the rear side of the venturi tube outlet, negative pressure is generated in the dosing container, and the detergent in the detergent container. |
| US09340915B2 |
Washing machine having a manual washing unit
Disclosed is a washing machine capable of improving the efficiency of washing and product quality by improving a pivoting structure of a door assembly having a door and an auxiliary washing unit forming an auxiliary washing space. Also, the door and the auxiliary washing unit may be coupled by a locking part so that a user can open and close the door assembly conveniently when manual washing is not needed. When manual washing is needed, the user may release a locked state of the locking part to move the door and the auxiliary washing unit separately. |
| US09340913B1 |
Devices for holding fabrics during embroidering
Embroidering apparatus comprises an inner hoop and a circumscribing outer hoop which captures and holds fabric firmly in place. An outer hoop has a closure at the gap/split location. Closures variously comprise springs that urge the split-ends of the hoop toward one another. Sleeves around gap-adjusting rods and gauge bars provide visual indicators display the amount of gap or spring compression, to enable quick adjustment and pre-setting of the outer hoop dimension. A fixture for holding an element that is small than the bore of the hoop is mounted on an inner hoop by means of magnetic or spring-tabs. One fixture comprises two spaced apart rail assemblies, each having a hinged and slotted cover. |
| US09340911B2 |
Sewing machine
A sewing machine includes a needle bar base, a support shaft, an adjustment member, and an urging portion. The needle bar base has a through hole on an upper end portion. The support shaft is inserted through the through hole and pivotably supports the needle bar base. The support shaft includes a leading end portion. The leading end portion includes a first screw portion. The adjustment member is provided on the support shaft and is configured to move along an axial direction of the support shaft. The adjustment member includes a second screw portion and a first contact portion. The second screw portion is screwed into the first screw portion. The first contact portion is in contact with the needle bar base. The urging portion urges the needle bar base toward the first contact portion of the adjustment member. |
| US09340910B2 |
Overlock sewing machine
An overlock sewing machine includes a main shaft fixing operating arm provided with a shaft pin engaging portion that engages with a fixing inner shaft pin and an arm provided to be operable by a user which are integrally rockable within a specified range, and further includes a main shaft fixing operating spring which urging direction is switched in both directions of an rocking direction by exceeding a neutral point by the rocking movements of the main shaft operating arm and the arm. Further, a switching cam ring is fixed to the main shaft fixing operating shaft that obtains driving force upon abutment of a slide plate pin of the slide plate to rotate the main shaft fixing operating shaft. |
| US09340909B2 |
Nonwoven fabric, absorbent article comprising the same, and method of forming the same
A nonwoven fabric that is easily deformed but resistant to collapse, and that has excellent air permeability in the planar direction. The nonwoven fabric comprises continuous fibers and bonded sections formed by bonding multiple fibers including the continuous fibers, wherein the nonwoven fabric comprises a first side and a second side on the side opposite the first side, the first side comprises a plurality of projections, each projection including at least one bonded section, a plurality of projections including no bonded section, and at least one recess, the second side comprises a plurality of recesses, each recess overlapping with at least a part of the projection of the first side, and the coefficient of variation of the diameters of the continuous fibers is at least 10%. |
| US09340900B2 |
Epitaxial wafer and method of producing same
A method of producing an epitaxial wafer, comprising: performing epitaxial growth of silicon on a main surface of a wafer made of a silicon single crystal; performing surface flattening pretreatment of a main surface of the wafer using a treatment liquid of a predetermined composition at a temperature of 100° C. or less, thereby forming an oxide film of a predetermined thickness while removing particles adhered on the main surface of the wafer; and performing a surface polishing step where the main surface of the wafer is mirror polished. |
| US09340899B2 |
Planar nonpolar group-III nitride films grown on miscut substrates
A nonpolar III-nitride film grown on a miscut angle of a substrate, in order to suppress the surface undulations, is provided. The surface morphology of the film is improved with a miscut angle towards an a-axis direction comprising a 0.15° or greater miscut angle towards the a-axis direction and a less than 30° miscut angle towards the a-axis direction. |
| US09340897B2 |
Method for controlling the diameter of a single crystal to a set point diameter
The diameter of a single crystal is controlled to a set point diameter during pulling of the single crystal from a melt contained in a crucible and which forms a meniscus at a phase boundary on the edge of the single crystal, the meniscus having a height which corresponds to the distance between the phase boundary and a level of the surface of the melt outside the meniscus, comprising repeatedly: determining the diameter of a bright ring on the meniscus; calculating a diameter of the single crystal while taking into account the diameter of the bright ring and the dependency of the diameter of the bright ring on the height of the meniscus and on the diameter of the single crystal itself; and calculating at least one manipulated variable for controlling the diameter of the single crystal on the basis of the difference between the calculated diameter of the single crystal and the set point diameter of the single crystal. |
| US09340894B2 |
Anode battery materials and methods of making the same
In some embodiments, the present invention provides novel methods of preparing porous silicon films and particles for lithium ion batteries. In some embodiments, such methods generally include: (1) etching a silicon material by exposure of the silicon material to a constant current density in a solution to produce a porous silicon film over a substrate; and (2) separating the porous silicon film from the substrate by gradually increasing the electric current density in sequential increments. In some embodiments, the methods of the present invention may also include a step of associating the porous silicon film with a binding material. In some embodiments, the methods of the present invention may also include a step of splitting the porous silicon film to form porous silicon particles. Additional embodiments of the present invention pertain to anode materials derived from the porous silicon films and porous silicon particles. |
| US09340893B2 |
Front referenced anode
Apparatus and methods for electroplating are described. Apparatus described herein include anode supports including positioning mechanisms that maintain a consistent distance between the surface of the wafer and the surface of a consumable anode during plating. Greater uniformity control is achieved. |
| US09340889B2 |
Method of fabricating a bipolar electrode for use in a semi fuel cell
A bipolar electrode fabricated with a combination of materials that will physically separate the catholyte from the metal anode of the electrode while providing high electrical conductivity between the metal anode and the catalyst cathode. This is accomplished by layering the catalyst cathode over a composite of conductive adhesive and conductive foil that is then affixed to the metal anode. |
| US09340880B2 |
Semiconductor fabrication process
Semiconductor fabrication processes are described. An embodiment of the semiconductor fabrication process includes providing a layer formed by decomposition of dimethylsilane through chemical vapor deposition, the layer being applied by a fluid material, and then positioning the layer in a system for producing a semiconductor product. Additionally or alternatively, the semiconductor product is produced and/or the layer is on a substrate. |
| US09340879B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus, method for manufacturing semiconductor device and computer-readable recording medium
There is provided a substrate processing apparatus configured to process a substrate in a processing space by supplying a gas into the processing space through a shower head as a gas dispersion mechanism, including: a gas supply pipe connected to the shower head; a gas exhaust pipe connected to the shower head; and a cleaning gas supply system connected to the gas supply pipe and the gas exhaust pipe and configured to supply a cleaning gas into the shower head from both of the gas supply pipe and the gas exhaust pipe. |
| US09340878B2 |
TPIR apparatus for monitoring tungsten hexafluoride processing to detect gas phase nucleation, and method and system utilizing same
Apparatus and method for monitoring a vapor deposition installation in which a gas mixture can undergo gas phase nucleation (GPN) and/or chemically attack the product device, under process conditions supportive of such behavior. The apparatus includes a radiation source arranged to transmit source radiation through a sample of the gas mixture, and a thermopile detector assembly arranged to receive output radiation resulting from interaction of the source radiation with the gas mixture sample, and to responsively generate an output indicative of onset of the gas phase nucleation and/or chemical attack when such onset occurs. Such monitoring apparatus and methodology is useful in tungsten CVD processing to achieve high rate tungsten film growth without GPN or chemical attack. |
| US09340875B2 |
Reaction device with peripheral-in and center-out design for chemical vapor deposition
A reaction device for chemical vapor deposition is disclosed. The reaction device includes a chamber, a susceptor, an inlet pipe unit and an outlet pipe. The susceptor is disposed within the chamber. The inlet pipe unit includes a plurality of feeding openings horizontally facing the peripheral area of the susceptor to input at least one reaction gas into the chamber. The at least one reaction gas is guided to move from the peripheral area of the susceptor and along a surface of the susceptor to reach the center of the susceptor. The outlet pipe includes a discharge opening whose position is corresponding to the center of the susceptor so as to discharge the reaction gas flowing to the center of the susceptor out of the chamber. |
| US09340872B2 |
Cleaning method, manufacturing method of semiconductor device, substrate processing apparatus, and recording medium
There is provided a cleaning method including cleaning an interior of a process chamber in which a substrate is processed, by supplying a cleaning gas into the process chamber and exhausting the cleaning gas from the process chamber via an exhaust pipe; and cooling the exhaust pipe by maintaining a state where distribution of the cleaning gas into the exhaust pipe is substantially stopped. Also, the act of cleaning the interior of the process chamber and the act of cooling the exhaust pipe are repeated alternately. |
| US09340871B1 |
Quality multi-spectral zinc sulfide
Low scatter water clear zinc sulfide with reduced metal contamination is prepared by coating a chuck which holds zinc sulfide and machining the zinc sulfide with uncoated particles. An inert foil is cleaned with an acid cleaning method and also cleaning the zinc sulfide. The zinc sulfide is wrapped in the inert foil and then treated by a HIP process to provide a low scatter water-clear zinc sulfide. The low scatter water-clear zinc sulfide may be used in articles such as windows and domes. |
| US09340869B2 |
Formed article, method for producing the same, electronic device member, and electronic device
A formed article includes a gas barrier layer that is formed of a material that includes at least an oxygen atom, a carbon atom, and a silicon atom, the gas barrier layer having an oxygen atom content that gradually decreases from the surface of the gas barrier layer in the depth direction, and having a carbon atom content that gradually increases from the surface of the gas barrier layer in the depth direction. An electronic device member includes the formed article, and an electronic device includes the electronic device member. The formed article exhibits an excellent gas barrier capability and excellent transparency. |
| US09340868B2 |
Sputtering device
A sputtering device includes: a sputtering target; a substrate supporter facing the sputtering target and upon which a substrate is disposed; an anode mask between the sputtering target and the substrate which is on the substrate supporter; and a gas distribution member between the anode mask and the sputtering target, and including a plurality of gas distribution tubes separated from each other. Each gas distribution tube includes a plurality of discharge holes defined therein and through which gas is discharged to a vacuum chamber configured to receive the sputtering device. |
| US09340867B2 |
Oxide sintered body and tablets obtained by processing same
The present invention discloses a tablet for ion plating, which is capable of providing high speed film formation of a transparent conductive film suitable for a solar cell, and continuing film formation without generating crack, fracture or splash; and an oxide sintered body for obtaining the same. The oxide sintered body etc. comprising indium oxide as a main component, and tungsten as an additive element, content of tungsten being 0.001 to 0.15, as an atomic ratio of W/(In+W), characterized in that said oxide sintered body is mainly composed of a crystal grain (A) composed of the indium oxide phase with a bixbyite type structure, where tungsten does not make a solid solution, and a crystal grain (B) composed of the indium oxide phase with a bixbyite type structure, where tungsten does not make a solid solution, and has a density of 3.4 to 5.5 g/cm3. |
| US09340863B2 |
Multilayer hard film and method for producing same
Provided is a multilayer hard film capable of elongating a lifetime of a member. A multilayer hard film (1) is formed by alternately stacking a layer A (11) made of Ti1-xSix(BpCqNr) [where 0.05≦x≦0.4, p≧0, q≧0, r>0, p+q+r=1], and a layer B (12) made of at least one selected from the group of Ti1-a-g-bBaCgNb [where 0.05≦a≦0.5, 0.25≦b≦0.6, 0≦g≦0.5], Si1-c-dCcNd [where 0.2≦c≦0.5, 0.25≦d≦0.5], B1-e-fCeNf [where 0.03≦e≦0.25, 0.3≦f≦0.55], TiB2, SiC and B4C, one another over the surface of the substrate (2). |
| US09340857B2 |
Sintered alloy and production method therefor
A sintered alloy has an overall composition consisting of, by mass %, 13.05 to 29.62% of Cr, 6.09 to 23.70% of Ni, 0.44 to 2.96% of Si, 0.2 to 1.0% of P, 0.6 to 3.0% of C, and the balance of Fe and inevitable impurities; a metallic structure in which carbides are precipitated and uniformly dispersed in an iron alloy matrix having dispersed pores; and a density of 6.8 to 7.4 Mg/m3. The carbides include specific carbides having maximum diameter of 1 to 10 μm and area ratio of 90% or more with respect to the total carbides. |
| US09340856B2 |
Ni—Fe—Cr alloy and engine valve welded with the same alloy
A hard-facing alloy having impact resistance, wear resistance and hot corrosion resistance and containing Fe which is a bountiful resource and inexpensive is provided. Provided are: a Ni—Fe—Cr alloy containing 0 to 20.0 mass % of Mo, 8.0 to 40.0 mass % of W, 20.0 to 40.0 mass % of a total amount of Mo and W, 20.0 to 50.0 mass % of Fe, 12.0 to 36.0 mass % of Cr and 1.0 to 2.5 mass % of B, and the remainder being Ni and unavoidable impurities; and an engine valve welded with the same alloy. The above Ni—Fe—Cr alloy can further contain 15 mass % or less of a total amount of elements selected from Co, Mn, Cu, Si and C, in such cases, 15.0 mass % or less of Co, 5.0 mass % or less of each of Mn and Cu, 2.0 mass % or less of Si and 0.5 mass % or less of C are preferred. |
| US09340854B2 |
Downhole motor with diamond-like carbon coating on stator and/or rotor and method of making said downhole motor
A drilling motor and method of making a drill motor are disclosed. The drilling motor includes a stator having a bore therethrough and inner surface and a rotor having an outer surface configured to be disposed in the stator. The outer surface of the rotor comes in contact with the inner surface of the stator. At least one of the inner surface of the stator and the outer surface of the rotor includes a coating of a diamond-like carbon material. |
| US09340853B2 |
Cu—Al—Ni—Fe alloy and sensor for measuring a physical parameter comprising a component made of such an alloy
The invention relates to an alloy permitting to replace the current CuBe alloy, soon to be prohibited by the various environmental directives because of the presence of Be and for which there is currently no substitution alloy with similar desired thermal and mechanical properties for measuring physical parameters, notably in aeronautics. This alloy is a Cu—Al—Ni—Fe alloy and the balance is copper. It contains from 3.8 to 4.4 wt % aluminum, from 4.2 to 5 wt % nickel, from 1.7 to 5 wt % iron, additives including silicon, manganese, chromium and titanium, silicon being present at less than 0.8 wt %, manganese being present at less than 0.15 wt %, chromium being present at less than 0.3 wt %, titanium being present at less than 0.1 wt %, the other chemical elements having contents by weight of less than 1%, each being present at less than 0.05 wt % and the balance is copper. |
| US09340852B2 |
Elevated refractory alloy with ambient-temperature and low-temperature ductility and method thereof
An elevated refractory alloy with ambient-temperature and low-temperature ductility and the method thereof is disclosed, that is, at least four high-melting point metal elements are composed with at least four carbides of the high-melting point metal elements through a high-temperature alloy process, the carbides is dissolved in the high-melting point metal elements, therefore the high-melting point metal elements are wet and composed with the carbides, consequently the crystallographic structure composed by the high-melting point metal elements and the carbides is changed from a body-centered cubic structure to a face-centered cubic structure. Therefore, at least four high-melting point metal elements are composed with corresponding carbides of the four high-melting point metal elements and an alloy material is made through high-temperature, wherein the crystallographic structure of the alloy material is a face-centered cubic structure so as to let that the alloy material is convenient machined. |
| US09340842B2 |
Reactor system for electroporation
A reactor system, for electroporation includes a reactor chamber having a length and a width, whereby the reactor chamber contains a central section along its length. A first pulse generator to which two electrodes (A1) and (A2) are connected are located in the reactor chamber in the central section of the reactor chamber such that they are, when measured in the length direction of the reactor chamber, at least a distance equalling half the width of the reactor chamber apart. A second pulse generator to which two electrodes (B1) and (B2) are connected are located in the reactor chamber in the central section of the reactor chamber such that they are, when measured in the length direction of the reactor chamber, at least a distance equalling half the width of the reactor chamber apart. |
| US09340838B2 |
Brassica genomic assays
Methods and compositions for detecting, identifying, and quantifying Brassica A genomic DNA are described. The methods are specific to the Brassica A genome and do not cross-react with other Brassica species, crops or weedy relatives that could contribute to contamination of a canola field. |
| US09340837B2 |
Methods and kits useful in the differentiation of Burkholderia species
The invention pertains to sequences, methods, and kits useful in the identification of and differentiation between Burkholderia pseudomallei and Burkholderia mallei. The methods generally involve the addition of oligonucleotides to mixtures containing nucleic acid isolated from a sample and performing nucleic acid amplification on the mixture. |
| US09340836B2 |
Allelic discrimination assays for MRSA strains
The present invention provides assays, methods and kits that may be used to detect and differentiate MRSA isolates, e.g., USA100, USA300 and USA600 strains. |
| US09340834B2 |
Method of designing addressable array suitable for detection of nucleic acid sequence differences using ligase detection reaction
The present invention is directed to a method of designing a plurality of capture oligonucleotide probes for use on a support to which complementary oligonucleotide probes will hybridize with little mismatch, where the plural capture oligonucleotide probes have melting temperatures within a narrow range. The present invention further relates to an oligonucleotide array comprising of a support with the plurality of oligonucleotide probes immobilized on the support, a method of using the support to detect single-base changes, insertions, deletions, or translocations in a plurality of target nucleotide sequences, and a kit for such detection, which includes the support on which the oligonucleotides have been immobilized. |
| US09340831B2 |
Gel-tethered molecular beacons
The present invention relates to surface-patterned microgels to which molecular beacon probes are immobilized. The immobilized molecular beacon probes exhibit both low non-specific background and high specific fluorescence. Also disclosed are related arrays, related detection methods, and preparation methods. |
| US09340825B2 |
Compositions for recombinase polymerase amplification
This disclosure describe three related novel methods for Recombinase-Polymerase Amplification (RPA) of a target DNA that exploit the properties of the bacterial RecA and related proteins, to invade double-stranded DNA with single stranded homologous DNA permitting sequence specific priming of DNA polymerase reactions. The disclosed methods has the advantage of not requiring thermocycling or thermophilic enzymes. Further, the improved processivity of the disclosed methods allow amplification of DNA up to hundreds of megabases in length. |
| US09340819B2 |
Method for detecting the presence of carbapenemase-producing bacteria in a sample
The present invention relates to a method for detecting the presence of carbapenemase-producing bacteria in a sample, said method comprising the steps of: a) performing cell lysis on a test sample in order to obtain an enzymatic suspension; b) reacting a fraction of the enzymatic suspension obtained in step a) with a reagent kit, said reagent kit comprising —a carbapenemase substrate selected from the group consisting of carbapenems and cephamycins, —a pH color indicator which will change color when the pH of the reaction mixture is comprised between 6.4 and 8.4, wherein a color change after step b) indicates the presence of carbapenemase-producing bacteria in the test sample. The invention also relates to a reagent kit, to a microtiter plate and to their uses in detecting the presence of carbapenemase producers in a test sample. |
| US09340816B2 |
FAD-conjugated glucose dehydrogenase gene
Disclosed herein are a gene (polynucleotide) encoding an FAD-conjugated glucose dehydrogenase which can be characterized by reactivity to glucose, thermal stability, substrate-recognition performance, and low activity for maltose; a process for the production of the enzyme using a transformant cell transfected with the gene; a method for the determination of glucose; a reagent composition for use in the determination of glucose; and a biosensor for use in the determination of glucose. An embodiment is a polynucleotide encoding an FAD-conjugated glucose dehydrogenase, comprising a polypeptide whose amino acid sequence comprises X1-X2-X3-X4-X5-X6, wherein X1 and X2 independently represent an aliphatic amino acid residue; X3 and X6 independently represent a branched amino acid residue; and X4 and X5 independently represent a heterocyclic amino acid residue or an aromatic amino acid residue. |
| US09340806B2 |
Method of initiating acetic fermentation under industrial conditions
The subject of the present invention is a method of initiating acetic fermentation in a production fermenter using a starter culture cultured in a pilot fermenter which constitutes about 1-3% of the working volume of the production fermenter, and the production fermenter is inoculated in a continuous fashion with acetic fermentation bacteria cultured in the pilot fermenter. |
| US09340805B2 |
Dicarboxylic acid production by fermentation at low pH
The present invention relates to a process for the production of a dicarboxylic acid. The process comprises fermenting a yeast in the presence of a carbohydrate-containing substrate and low amounts of oxygen at a pH value at which at least 50% of the dicarboxylic acid is in the acid form. The process of the present invention allows for high yields of the dicarboxylic acid product and is more cost-effective than existing processes in which the salt is produced which during recovery has to be converted to the acid. It also leads to a simpler and more convenient downstream processing. |
| US09340803B2 |
3-hydroxypropionic acid and other organic compounds
Methods and materials related to producing 3-HP as well as other organic compounds are disclosed. Specifically, isolated nucleic acids, polypeptides, host cells, and methods and materials for producing 3-HP and other organic compounds are disclosed. |
| US09340802B2 |
Fermentation of gaseous substrates
Processes, as well as associated systems, are disclosed for the biological conversion of CO into desired end products such as ethanol. The use of a plurality of perforated plates, for example in the riser section of a bioreactor, which are positioned substantially horizontally and normal to the upward flow of both a CO-containing substrate and liquid culture medium, can significantly improve CO utilization of the bacteria and consequently the overall process economics. The geometry of apertures in the perforated plates is an important determinant of their performance, with fractal patterns and other multi-edged shapes leading to particularly advantageous results. |
| US09340797B2 |
Compositions and methods for control of insect infestations in plants
The present invention is directed to controlling pest infestation by inhibiting one or more biological functions in an invertebrate pest. The invention discloses methods and compositions for use in controlling pest infestation by feeding one or more different recombinant double stranded RNA molecules to the pest in order to achieve a reduction in pest infestation through suppression of gene expression. The invention is also directed to methods for making transgenic plants that express the double stranded RNA molecules, and to particular combinations of transgenic pesticidal agents for use in protecting plants from pest infestation. |
| US09340789B2 |
UNA oligomer structures for therapeutic agents
This disclosure provides double-stranded RNA complexes having one or more hydroxymethyl substituted nucleomonomer(s) in the passenger strand (or sense strand) of an RNA complex. RNA complexes of the disclosure may be useful for therapeutic applications, diagnostic applications or research applications. RNA complexes include short interfering RNA complexes (siRNA) capable of modulating gene expression comprising an antisense strand and a continuous or a discontinuous passenger strand (“sense strand”). Further, one or more hydroxymethyl substituted nucleomonomer(s) of this disclosure may be positioned at the 3′-end, at the 5′-end, at both the 3′-end and 5′end. |
| US09340788B2 |
Platelet derived growth factor receptor supports cytomegalovirus infectivity
The disclosure relates generally to compositions and methods useful for inhibiting the infection and propagation of viral particles, particularly members of the Herpesviridae family, and more particularly to cytomegalovirus (CMV). |
| US09340785B2 |
Selective inhibition of polyglutamine protein expression
The present invention relates to the selective inhibition of protein expression of CAG repeat-related disease proteins such as Huntington using nucleic acid analogs. Peptide nucleic acids and locked nucleic acids are particularly useful analogs. |
| US09340783B2 |
Exon skipping therapy for dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa
The present invention also relates to an antisense oligonucleotide complementary to a nucleic acid sequence of COL7A1 gene that is necessary for correct splicing of one or more exons which encode amino acid sequence of type VII collagen implicated in dysfunction of a mutated type VII collagen wherein said exons are selected from the group consisting of exon 73, 74 or 80 of the COL7A1 gene. The present invention also relates to a method for the treatment of a patient suffering from Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa caused by a dysfunction of a mutated type VII collagen, comprising the step of administering to said patient a least one antisense oligonucleotide according to the invention. |
| US09340782B2 |
Antimir-451 for the treatment of polycythemias
The present invention provides methods of treating diseases and disorders associated with aberrant erythropoiesis. Specifically, the present invention provides a method for treating polycythemia in a subject by administering an inhibitor of miR-451. Methods of increasing red blood cell count and treating anemia in a subject by administering miR-451 mimetics are also disclosed. |
| US09340781B2 |
Compositions and methods for representational selection of nucleic acids from complex mixtures using hybridization
The invention provides a method of selecting a representational sample of nucleic acid sequences from a complex mixture. The method includes: (a) contacting a complex mixture of nucleic acids under conditions sufficient for hybridization with a population of capture probes complementary to one or more nucleic acids comprising a predetermined portion of the sequence collectively present in the complex mixture to form hybridization complexes of the one or more nucleic acids with the population of probes, the population of capture probes being attached to a solid support, and (b) removing unhybridized nucleic acids to select a representational sample of nucleic acids having a complexity of less than 10% but more than 0.001% of the complex mixture, wherein the representational sample comprises a nucleic acid copy having a proportion of each sequence in the copy relative to all other sequences in the copy substantially the same as the proportions of the sequences in the predetermined portion of one or more nucleic acids within the complex mixture. A method of selecting a representational sample of genomic sequences from a complete genome also is provided. The invention further provides a nucleic acid population that includes a representational sample having a complexity of less than 10% but more than 0.001% of a complex mixture, the representational sample comprising a nucleic acid copy having a proportion of each sequence in the copy relative to all other sequences in the copy substantially the same as the proportions of sequences in a predetermined portion of a sequence collectively present in one or more nucleic acids within the complex mixture. |
| US09340778B2 |
Single step liquefaction and saccharification of corn starch using an acidophilic, calcium independent and hyperthermophilic pullulanase
A novel thermoacidophilic pullulanase (Tk-PUL) from hyperthermophilic archaeon Thermococcus kodakaraensis KOD1 is described here that efficiently hydrolyzes starch under industrial conditions in the absence of any additional metal ions. The gene encoding Tk-PUL was cloned and expressed in E. coli cells. The purified recombinant enzyme possesses the following properties: shows both pullulanase and α-amylase activities, displays highest activity at 95-100° C., active over a broad pH range (3.0-8.5) with optimum working pH 3.5, stable for several hours at 90° C. and displays a half-life of 45 minutes at 100° C., activity and stability are independent of calcium and other metal ions, and hydrolyzes maltotriose. Moreover, recombinant Tk-PUL can be used for single step liquefaction and saccharification of corn starch (without any α-amylase or β-amylase) at pH 4.2 in the absence of calcium. |
| US09340777B2 |
Rationally-designed single-chain meganucleases with non-palindromic recognition sequences
Disclosed are rationally-designed, non-naturally-occurring meganucleases in which a pair of enzyme subunits having specificity for different recognition sequence half-sites are joined into a single polypeptide to form a functional heterodimer with a non-palindromic recognition sequence. The invention also relates to methods of producing such meganucleases, and methods of producing recombinant nucleic acids and organisms using such meganucleases. |
| US09340773B2 |
Antigen-presenting platelets and methods of eliciting an immune response
Provided herein are methods of producing an antigen-presenting platelet. Also provided herein are methods of eliciting an immune response in a subject using the antigen-presenting platelets described herein. Also provided are methods of screening for an immune response elicited by an antigen-presenting platelet. Further provided are isolated populations of platelets that present a selected antigen produced by the methods described herein. |
| US09340772B2 |
Generating induced pluripotent stem cells and progenitor cells from fibroblasts
The present disclosure provides a method of generating progenitor cells, such as hematopoietic or neural progenitor cells, from fibroblasts, such as dermal fibroblasts, comprising providing fibroblasts that express or are treated with a POU domain containing gene or protein and culturing the cells under conditions that allow production of progenitor cells, without traversing the pluripotent state. Also provided is a method of isolating a subpopulation of fibroblasts with reprogramming potential comprising providing fibroblasts that express an Oct-4-reporter and isolating cells that are positive for the reporter. Further provided is a method of generating reprogrammed fibroblast-derived induced pluripotent stem cells. Also provided are uses and assays of the cells produced by the methods of the disclosure. |
| US09340767B2 |
Propagating an organism and related methods and compositions
The present invention is related to methods of propagating one or more organisms by using a carbon source that includes xylose (e.g., xylose syrup from pretreating lignocellulosic feedstock) and/or a nutrient source that includes a stillage component (e.g., thin stillage derived from a corn-to-ethanol process) in the propagation medium. The organisms include those that can convert one or more monosaccharides into an alcohol via fermentation, such as yeast. The present invention is also directed to related compositions. |
| US09340766B2 |
Method and devices for improved oxygen permeability in microorganism storage containers
The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to improved containers for transporting microorganisms and other living material. Certain embodiments include air-permeable bladders having an air-permeable inner wall and a stronger outer wall having perforations. |
| US09340765B2 |
Microfluidic chemostat
A method to suppress biofilm formation in a growth chamber of a chemostat is described. The method includes the steps of adding a lysis agent to an isolated portion of the growth chamber, and reuniting the isolated portion with the rest of the growth chamber. The microfluidic chemostat includes a growth chamber having a plurality of compartments. Each of the compartments may be fluidly isolated from the rest of the growth chamber by one or more actuatable valves. The chemostat also included a nutrient supply-line to supply growth medium to the growth chamber, and an output port to remove fluids from the growth chamber. |
| US09340764B2 |
Transfer device for culture vessel, culture device and holder for culture vessel
A transfer device for a culture vessel for transferring a culture vessel for culturing a cell, a culture device including the transfer device for a culture vessel, and a holder for a culture vessel for holding a culture vessel, in which the transfer device for a culture vessel includes a transferring unit transferring a culture vessel for culturing a cell, an inputting unit inputting a kind of the culture vessel, a speed setting unit setting a transfer speed of the culture vessel based on a kind of the culture vessel inputted to the inputting unit, and a controlling unit controlling a transfer speed of the transferring unit to be the transfer speed set by the speed setting unit. |
| US09340759B2 |
Cleaning composition and method of manufacturing metal wiring using the same
A cleaning composition includes about 0.01 to about 5 wt % of a chelating agent; about 0.01 to about 0.5 wt % of an organic acid; about 0.01 to about 1.0 wt % of an inorganic acid; about 0.01 to about 5 wt % of an alkali compound; and deionized water. |
| US09340758B2 |
Compositions of hydrochlorofluoroolefins
The present invention relates to solvent/cleaner and heat transfer fluid compositions comprising at least one hydrochlorofluoroolefin (HCFO), 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (HCFO-1233zd), particularly the trans-isomer. The HCFO of the present invention can be used in combination with co-agents including, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrocarbons, ethers including hydrofluoroethers (HFEs), esters, ketones, alcohols, 1,2-transdichloroethylene and mixtures thereof. |
| US09340753B2 |
Low surfactant, high carbonate liquid laundry detergent compositions with improved suds profile
The present invention relates to a stable liquid laundry detergent composition containing low levels of a C10-C20 linear alkyl benzene sulphonate surfactant in combination with high levels of a water-soluble alkali metal carbonate for achieving improved suds profile. |
| US09340748B2 |
Extraction of solute from solute-bearing material
This invention is directed to a process for separating a solute from a solute-bearing material. A substantial amount of solute is extracted from the solute-bearing material by contacting particles of the solute-bearing material with globules of an extraction solvent. The particle size of the solute-bearing material and the globule size of the extraction solvent are balanced such that little if any solute or extraction solvent remains in the solute-bearing material. |
| US09340747B2 |
Lubricating oil composition for transmissions
The present invention provides a lubricating oil composition for transmissions which is improved in fuel saving properties and has excellent metal fatigue prevention properties and heat resistance. The lubricating oil composition comprises (A) a mineral base oil having a 100° C. kinematic viscosity of 1.5 mm2/s or higher and 3.5 mm2/s or lower, a pour point of −25° C. or lower, a viscosity index of 110 or greater, a % CN of 2 or greater and 20 or less and a % CA of 3 or less, the lubricating oil composition having a 100° C. kinematic viscosity of 2.5 mm2/s or higher and 3.8 mm2/s or lower. |
| US09340745B2 |
Lubricant composition
A lubricant composition is substantially free of water and includes a base oil present in an amount of greater than 85 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the lubricant composition, includes an antioxidant, and includes one or more alkylethercarboxylic acid corrosion inhibitor(s) present in an amount of from 0.01 to 1 weight percent based on a total weight of said lubricant composition. The one or more alkylethercarboxylic acid corrosion inhibitor(s) have the formula; wherein R is a straight or branched chain C6-C18 alkyl group and n is a number of from 0 to 5. |
| US09340744B2 |
Detergent modification
An overbased sulphurised calcium phenate detergent additive, made from an aldylphenol, has oxyalkylated phenolic functional groups from unreacted alkylphenol starting material. |
| US09340743B2 |
Metallurgical lubricant powder and metal powder composition
A powder metallurgy lubricant includes an aromatic carboxylic acid represented by a formula (1), (Z)n-Ar—COOH (1) where Ar represents an aryl group and Z represents a substituent directly bonded to the above aryl group and is one of R, OR, OCOR and COOR, R representing one of an alkyl group, alkenyl group and alkynyl group and n being an integer in a range from 1 to 4. Z may be mutually the same or different when n is 2 or larger. |
| US09340740B2 |
Method for evaluating thermal plasticity of coals and caking additives, and method for producing coke
A method for evaluating thermal plasticity of coals and caking additives includes packing a coal or a caking additive into a vessel to prepare a sample 1; arranging a through-hole material 2 having through-holes from top to bottom surfaces, onto the sample 1; heating the sample 1 at a predetermined heating rate while maintaining a constant volume of or while applying a constant load onto the sample 1 and the through-hole material 2; measuring the permeation distance with which the molten sample has permeated into the through-holes; and evaluating thermal plasticity of the sample using the measured value. Alternatively, a method involves heating the sample 1 at a predetermined heating rate while maintaining the sample 1 and the through-hole material 2 in a constant volume; measuring the pressure of the sample that is transmitted via the through-hole material 2; and evaluating thermal plasticity of the sample using the measured value. |
| US09340738B2 |
Method of making cerium oxide nanoparticles
A process for making cerium-containing oxide nanoparticles includes providing an aqueous reaction mixture containing a source of cerous ion and a source of one or more metal ions (M) other than cerium, a source of hydroxide ion, at least one monoether carboxylic acid nanoparticle stabilizer wherein the molar ratio of said monoether carboxylic acid nanoparticle stabilizers to total metal ions is greater than 0.2, and an oxidant. The cerous ion is oxidized to ceric ion, thereby forming a product dispersion of cerium-containing oxide nanoparticles containing one or more metal ions (M), Ce1-xMxO2-δ, wherein x has a value from about 0.001 to about 0.95 and δ has a value of about 0.0 to about 0.5. |
| US09340737B2 |
Liquid fuel
A liquid fuel formed by the mixture of toluene, meta-xylene and n-hexane, in proportions of between 50 and 70% of toluene, between 10 and 20% of meta-xylene and between 20 and 30% of n-hexane. |
| US09340733B2 |
Process for Hydrodesulphuration of gasoil cuts using a catalyst based on heteropolyanions trapped in a mesostructured silica support
The invention relates to a process of hydrodesulphuration of at least one gasoil cut implementing a catalyst containing, in its oxide form, at least one metal from group VIB and/or at least one metal from group VIII of the periodic table, present in the form of at least one polyoxometalate of the formula (HhXxMmOy)q−, said polyoxometalates being present within a mesostructured silicon oxide matrix having a pore size within the range 1.5 to 50 nm and having amorphous walls of thickness within the range 1 to 30 nm, the said catalyst being sulphured before being implemented in the said process. |
| US09340730B2 |
Liquid crystalline medium
The present invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium based on a mixture of polar compounds having negative dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), which is distinguished by the fact that it has a value for the ratio γ1/Δn2 in the range 6-45 with a clearing point of >60° C. and a Δ∈ of ≦−2.3. Media of this type are particularly suitable for electro-optical displays having active-matrix addressing based on the ECB, PA LCD, FFS or IPS effect. |
| US09340728B2 |
Organic electroluminescence device
As an organic electroluminescence device that has an excellent emission characteristic, suppresses a change in chromaticity when driving at a high temperature and has excellent durability, the organic electroluminescence device includes on a substrate a pair of electrodes and a light emitting layer disposed between the electrodes, in which the light emitting layer contains a compound represented by the following Formula (1) and a specific metal complex is provided. (Cz)p-L-(A)q (1) (In Formula (1), Cz represents a substituted or unsubstituted arylcarbazolyl group or a substituted or unsubstituted carbazolylaryl group. L represents a single bond, a substituted or unsubstituted arylene group, a substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkylene group or a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic heterocyclic ring. A is a substituted or unsubstituted nitrogen-containing aromatic heterocyclic six-membered ring, and each of p and q independently represent an integer of 1 to 6.) |
| US09340727B2 |
Method for producing coated alkaline earth metal silicate phosphor particles
A method for producing film-coated alkaline-earth metal silicate phosphor particles that can have improved light-emitting characteristics may include a coating film having high moisture resistance. Strontium-containing alkaline-earth metal silicate phosphor particles are pretreated with an alkaline-earth metal compound solution whose strontium compound concentration is 1 to 15% by mass with respect to the phosphor particles and whose pH is 6 or higher but 10 or lower. Then, a base layer of an aluminum organic metal compound is formed on the surface of the pretreated phosphor particles. Then, the phosphor particles are coated with a coating material composed of a partially-hydrolyzed condensate of a silane organic metal compound, and are then dried and heat-treated to form, on their surface, a coating film made of an amorphous inorganic compound mainly containing Si and O. |
| US09340724B2 |
Nonionic surfactants for enhanced crude oil recovery
The present disclosure provides methods of using a nonionic surfactant for enhanced oil recovery, where the nonionic surfactant is prepared with a double metal cyanide catalyst. The present disclosure also provides for an emulsion that includes carbon dioxide, a diluent and the nonionic surfactant. |
| US09340723B2 |
Catalyzed polyamine sulfide scavengers and methods of use in subterranean treatment fluids
Improved methods and additives for eliminating or reducing concentrations of hydrogen sulfide or soluble sulfide ions for use in subterranean formations and fluids are provided. In one embodiment, the methods comprise: providing a treatment fluid comprising an oil-based liquid and a sulfide scavenging additive comprising one or more polyaliphatic amines and a catalyst comprising one or more quaternary ammonium salts; introducing the treatment fluid into at least a portion of a subterranean formation; and allowing the sulfide scavenging additive to interact with hydrogen sulfide or sulfide ions present in the treatment fluid. |
| US09340718B2 |
Laminate and method of producing laminate
A laminate according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a resin substrate; a polyvinyl alcohol-based resin layer formed on one side of the resin substrate; and an antistatic layer formed on another side of the resin substrate and comprising a binder resin and a conductive material. The antistatic layer has a fine uneven surface; and the fine uneven surface includes protrusions having an average height of 25 nm or more and a softening temperature of 150° C. or more. |
| US09340714B2 |
Cross-linkable masses based on organyl-oxysilane-terminated polyurethanes
Adhesives having high tensile strength are prepared from moisture-curable alkoxysilyl-terminated polyurethanes. |
| US09340709B2 |
Support film for tape and tape
A support film for tape which is used for a tape, the support film for tape includes: a film-shaped support formed of polyurethane; and a barrier layer which includes a water-soluble polymer compound and montmorillonite and is formed on one surface of the support. The support film for tape has a percentage content of the montmorillonite in the barrier layer is equal to or more than 2 percent by weight and equal to or less than 22 percent by weight. |
| US09340706B2 |
Mixed abrasive polishing compositions
The invention provides chemical-mechanical polishing compositions and methods of chemically-mechanically polishing a substrate with the chemical-mechanical polishing compositions. The polishing compositions comprise first abrasive particles, wherein the first abrasive particles are ceria particles, second abrasive particles, wherein the second abrasive particles are ceria particles, surface-modified silica particles, or organic particles, a pH-adjusting agent, and an aqueous carrier. The polishing compositions also exhibit multimodal particle size distributions. |
| US09340703B2 |
Polyurethane coating agent composition, multistage coating method using said coating agent compositions, and use of the coating agent compositions as clear coating or pigmented coating material, and use of the coating method for automotive repair painting and/or for coating plastics substrates and/or of commercial vehicles
The present invention relates to coating material compositions comprising at least one polyhydroxyl group-containing compound (A), at least one polyisocyanate group-containing compound (B) having free and/or blocked isocyanate groups, and at least one catalyst (D) based on a zinc-amidine complex which is preparable by reaction of 1.0 moles of at least one zinc(II) biscarboxylate with 2.0 moles of at least one amidine where R5=hydrogen and R1, R2, R3, and R4 are each identical or different radicals, R1 and R3 being hydrogen or an alkyl radical or an aryl radical, and R2 and R4 being an alkyl radical or an aryl radical, characterized in that the coating material composition further comprises at least one monomeric aromatic, optionally substituted carboxylic acid (S) whose carboxyl group is in conjugation with a π-electron system. |
| US09340701B2 |
Curing agent for epoxy resin coatings
The present invention relates to curing agents for epoxy resins including an alkylated polyethyleneimine. These curing agents have high functionality and a high content of secondary amino groups. Together with epoxy resins, they cure surprisingly quickly and without blushing effects even under humid and cold conditions to form films having very high cross-linking density. They are suited for coatings with high resistance requirements. |
| US09340700B2 |
Epoxy resin composition for semiconductor encapsulation and semiconductor device using the same
The present invention relates to an epoxy resin composition for semiconductor encapsulation, including the following components (A) to (E), in which the component (D) is contained in an amount of from 0.1 to 1.5% by weight of the whole of the epoxy resin composition: (A) an epoxy resin; (B) a phenol resin; (C) an inorganic filler; (D) a compound represented by the following formula (1) in which R1 represents a hydroxyl group or an alkoxy group, R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a monovalent hydrocarbon group, and n is an integer of from 1 to 7; and (E) a release agent including at least one of the following (α) and (β): (α) a linear saturated carboxylic acid having a number average molecular weight of from 550 to 800, and (β) an oxidized polyethylene wax: R1CH2—CH2—OnR2 (1). |
| US09340699B2 |
Aqueous oligomer / polymer emulsion with cationic functionality
An aqueous emulsion comprising at least a covalently bound vinyl oligomer and vinyl polymer, wherein said vinyl oligomer comprises 5 to 85 mol % of vinyl monomers bearing quaternary ammonium ion functional groups or quaternisable amine functional groups and is obtained by a controlled radical polymerisation of at least one vinyl monomer via a reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer mechanism in solution in the presence of a control agent and a source of free radicals; wherein said vinyl polymer is obtained by emulsion polymerisation of vinyl monomers in the presence of the vinyl oligomer; wherein the weight % ratio of vinyl oligomer to vinyl polymer is in the range of from 0.5:99.5 to 65:35. |
| US09340692B2 |
Ink, inkjet recording method, and recorded matter
An ink contains water, a hydrosoluble organic solvent, a colorant, a resin A; and a resin B, wherein the content of the resin B is from 0.5% by weight to less than 10% by weight to the content of the resin A and the resin B has a minimum film-forming temperature at least 30° C. lower than that of the resin A. |
| US09340685B2 |
HASE rheology modifier VAE emulsion copolymer composition
The present invention relates to a composition comprising a vinyl acetate copolymer and a HASE thickener comprising structural units of ethyl acrylate, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, and a hydrophobic macromonomer. The composition of the present invention shows an improvement in heat aged stability over a vinyl acetate copolymer based paint thickened with a HASE that does not include structural units of acrylic acid. |
| US09340683B2 |
Sulfonate-functional coatings and methods
A coating composition is described comprising:(i) a zwitterionic compound comprising sulfonate-functional groups and alkoxysilane groups and/or silanol-functional groups; (ii) alcohol and/or water; and (iii) a tetraalkoxysilane, oligomers thereof, lithium silicate, sodium silicate, potassium silicate, silica, or combinations thereof, along with coated articles and methods of making and using. |
| US09340682B2 |
Water based epoxy resin primer
The present invention relates to a adhesion promoter composition containing at least one aqueous dispersion of a solid epoxy resin; at least one polyamine; and at least one Compound V in free or hydrolytically releasable form which can enter into a condensation reaction with the polyamine. Adhesion promoter compositions according to the invention lead to an improvement in the adhesion under hot, humid conditions. |
| US09340681B2 |
Resin film and method of producing resin film
A resin film according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a substrate film; and an antistatic layer formed on one side of the substrate film and including a binder resin and a conductive material. The binder resin includes a polyurethane-based resin; the antistatic layer has an arithmetic average surface roughness Ra of 10 nm or more; and the conductive material includes a conductive polymer. |
| US09340680B2 |
Spinel powder and manufacturing process therefor, and processes for producing thermal spraying film and gas sensor elements
Disclosed is a spinel powder obtained by mixing a magnesia raw-material with an electrically fused alumina, followed by firing of the mixture. The particles of the spinel powder are coated with granular spinel particles. Therefore, there are provided a spinel powder and a simple method for producing the same, which is superior in thermal spraying property and has a unique particle shape. In particular, there is provided a method for producing a spinel powder which contributes to a reduction in the variation of characteristics of sensors, for example, as a thermal spraying powder for forming a protective coating of a gas sensor element. |
| US09340678B2 |
Process to form aqueous precursor and aluminum oxide film
One disclosed embodiment concerns an aqueous inorganic coating precursor solution comprising a mixture of water, polynuclear aluminum hydroxide cations, and polyatomic ligands selected from nitrate (NO3−), nitrite (NO2−), or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the composition has a molar concentration ratio of polyatomic ligands to aluminum of less than 3; an aluminum cation concentration of from about 0.01 M to about 3.5 M; and/or a polyatomic anion concentration of from about 0.1 to about 2.5 times the aluminum cation concentration. Embodiments of a method for forming the precursor solution also are disclosed. For example, certain embodiments comprise adding a metal having a sufficient reduction potential to reduce nitric acid to an aqueous solution comprising aluminum nitrate (Al(NO3)3). |
| US09340677B2 |
Apparatus and process for the surface treatment of carbon fibers
A method for surface treating a carbon-containing material in which carbon-containing material is reacted with decomposing ozone in a reactor (e.g., a hollow tube reactor), wherein a concentration of ozone is maintained throughout the reactor by appropriate selection of at least processing temperature, gas stream flow rate, reactor dimensions, ozone concentration entering the reactor, and position of one or more ozone inlets (ports) in the reactor, wherein the method produces a surface-oxidized carbon or carbon-containing material, preferably having a surface atomic oxygen content of at least 15%. The resulting surface-oxidized carbon material and solid composites made therefrom are also described. |
| US09340676B2 |
Corrosion inhibiting pigment comprising nanoreservoirs of corrosion inhibitor
A corrosion inhibiting pigment includes nanoscale reservoirs (nanoreservoirs) of corrosion inhibitor for active corrosion protection of metallic products and structures, wherein the nanoreservoirs include a polymer or polyelectrolyte shell which is sensitive to a specific trigger and capable of releasing the inhibitor after action of the trigger. An anti-corrosive coating with self-healing properties includes the pigment, methods for preparing the pigment, in particular by layer-by-layer deposition, as well as methods of use of the pigment. |
| US09340672B2 |
Resin composition, composite cured product using same, and method for producing the composite cured product
A resin composition including 10 to 90% by mass of (A) a component to be polymerized containing a compound represented by Formula (1), and 90 to 10% by mass of (B) a thermosetting resin, the (A) and (B) each being capable of undergoing a reaction to increase molecular weight by itself when heated: wherein, Ar represents an aryl; and X represents at least one selected from the group consisting of ethers, ketones, sulfides, sulfones, amides, carbonates and esters. |
| US09340670B2 |
Flame-retardant polycarbonate resin composition with scratch resistance
The present invention relates to an environmentally friendly flame-retardant polycarbonate resin composition having scratch resistance, which includes a specific (meth)acrylic flame-retardant copolymer to improve flame retardancy and scratch resistance. |
| US09340668B2 |
Thermoplastic resin composition and molded article using the same
A thermoplastic resin composition and a molded article including the same are disclosed. The thermoplastic resin composition includes: (A) a base resin including (a1) a styrene copolymer and (a2) a rubber-modified vinyl graft copolymer; and (B) surface-treated metal particles, wherein the surface-treated metal particles include: a metal core; a first coating layer formed on the metal core; and a second coating layer formed on the first coating layer. The thermoplastic resin composition can exhibit significantly improved glossiness and appearance by preventing flow marks and weld lines that can occur upon injection molding, while exhibiting a luxurious metallic texture even without painting. |
| US09340664B2 |
Modified polyethylene compositions for blown film
The present invention relates to a blown film comprising more than 25 wt % (based on the weight of the composition) of one or more linear ethylene polymers having a g′vis of 0.97 or more and an Mw of 20,000 g/mol or more and at least 0.1 wt % of a branched modifier where the modifier has a) a g′vis of 0.90 or less; b) an Mw of 100,000 g/mol or more; c) an Mw/Mn of 3.0 or more; d) an Mz/Mn of 7.0 or more; e) optionally, an Mz of 2,000,000 g/mol or less; and f) a shear thinning ratio of 40 or more. |
| US09340663B2 |
Rubber composition for tire, and pneumatic tire
The present invention provides a rubber composition for tires which achieves a balanced improvement in rolling resistance, abrasion resistance, and wet-skid performance while providing excellent processability; and a pneumatic tire including the rubber composition. The present invention relates to a rubber composition for tires, including: a modified diene rubber A which has been terminally modified with a specific acrylamide compound; a modified diene rubber B which has been modified with a silicon or tin compound and a specific modifying compound or with the modifying compound; and a silane coupling agent containing a mercapto group, the modified diene rubbers A and B, taken as a whole, having a weight average molecular weight falling within a specific range. |
| US09340659B2 |
Aliphatic polyester resin composition and molded article containing this resin composition
The present invention provides a resin composition that improves slow crystallization, which is a drawback of polyhydroxyalkanoates, and is excellent in molding processability and productivity. The resin composition is an aliphatic polyester resin composition comprising a polyhydroxyalkanoate (A), an amide bond-containing compound (B), and pentaerythritol (C), wherein the amide bond-containing compound (B) is represented by any one of the following general formulas: R1—C(O)N(R2)2, R1—C(O)NH—(R3)—NHC(O)—R1, R1—NHC(O)NH—(R3)—NHC(O)NH—R1, R1—NHC(O)—R2, R1—NHC(O)—(R3)—C(O)NH—R1, R1—C(O)NH—(R3)—C(O)NH—R1, R1—NHC(O)NH—(R3)—C(O)NH—R1, and R1—NHC(O)NH—(R3)—NHC(O)—R1. |
| US09340658B2 |
Low-volatility plasticizer blends
Disclosed is a plasticizer comprising xylylene glycol di-2-ethylhexanoate. The plasticizer can comprise xylylene glycol di-2ethylhexanoate and a second plasticizer. Also disclosed is a plastisol comprising a PVC resin dispersed in the liquid phase and a plasticizer comprising xylylene glycol di-2-ethylhexanoate and a second plasticizer. Additionally disclosed, an article can comprise the fused plastisol. |
| US09340657B2 |
Crosslinking systems for hydroxyl polymers
Crosslinking systems suitable for use in a polymer melt composition wherein the polymer melt composition comprises a hydroxyl polymer; polymeric structures made from such polymer melt compositions; and processes/methods related thereto are provided. |
| US09340655B2 |
Composition for silicone rubber foam, manufacturing method of silicone rubber foam, and silicone rubber foam
There are provided a composition for silicone rubber foam, a manufacturing method of a silicone rubber foam, and a silicone rubber foam in which it is possible to control the foaming states. The composition for silicone rubber foam contains: (A) 100 parts by mass of polyorganosiloxane having a degree of polymerization of 4,000 to 10,000 and having two or more alkenyl groups at a content of 0.001 mmol/g or more and less than 0.3 mmol/g; an amount of polyorganohydrogensiloxane having an average of two or more Si-atom-bonded hydrogen atoms so that a molar ratio of the hydrogen atoms to the alkenyl groups in the (A) component is 0.001 to 5; 0.1 to 10 parts by mass of an organic foaming agent with a decomposition temperature of 50 to 250° C.; 5 to 200 parts by mass of silica powder; and a catalyst amount of a platinum-based metal catalyst activated with ultraviolet rays. |
| US09340651B2 |
Sugar chain-capturing substance and use thereof
The present invention provides a method for preparing a sample characterized by binding a substance A containing a hydrazide group to a sugar chain and/or a sugar derivative via hydrazone formation between the hydrazide group of the substance A and the reducing end of the sugar chain and/or the sugar derivative thereby to enable the separation and purification of the sugar chain and/or the sugar derivative for an analytical sample from a biological sample containing the sugar chain and/or the sugar derivative by a simple operation. |
| US09340648B2 |
Coating material and layered body
A coating material including a perfluorocarbon sulfonic acid resin which is a copolymer including a polymerization unit represented by —(CF2—CFZ)—, in the formula, Z being H, Cl, F, or a C1-C3 perfluoroalkyl group, and a polymerization unit represented by —(CF2—CF(—O—(CF2)m—SO3H))—, in the formula, m being an integer of 1 to 12, and the perfluorocarbon sulfonic acid resin has an equivalent weight EW of 200 to 1000. Also disclosed is a laminate including a base material and a hydrophilic layer formed from the coating material. |
| US09340646B2 |
Process for purifying poly (alkylene carbonate)
A process for purifying a poly(alkylene carbonate), said process comprising the steps of adding said poly(alkylene carbonate) to an aqueous solution, optionally in the presence of an acid compound, in the absence of any organic solvent. subsequently heating said blend to a temperature of up to 200° C.; and removing the aqueous phase and drying the residue. |
| US09340644B2 |
Self-sensitive polymerizable liquid resin and use thereof
A self-sensitive polymerizable liquid resin is provided, which contains an uncrosslinked Michael addition reaction product of the following components: a Michael donor, a Michael accepter and optionally a viscosity modifier. The Michael accepter has 5 to 18 acryloyl functional groups. The self-sensitive polymerizable liquid resin of the present invention is capable of being used as an aid in a coating composition and providing a good property in deep radiation curing, and is particularly applicable in color coatings. |
| US09340636B2 |
Thiol-containing dual cure polymers and methods using same
The invention includes a composition comprising a vinyl sulfone monomer, a thiol monomer and an acrylate monomer. In one embodiment, the thiol monomer reacts with the vinyl sulfone monomer preferentially over the acrylate monomer, and this differential selectivity allows for the control of the architecture of crosslinking polymer network. The invention further includes a composition comprising an electrophilic monomer, a nucleophilic monomer, a nucleophilic catalyst and an acid, wherein the concentrations of the nucleophilic catalyst and acid are selected as to provide a specific induction time for the polymerization reaction of the composition. |
| US09340634B2 |
Polymer for use in liquid crystal alignment layer
The present invention relates to materials used for aligning liquid crystals of liquid crystal display elements and to a polymer for use in liquid crystal vertical alignment layer used in producing a liquid crystal vertical alignment layer.The polymer for use in a liquid crystal vertical alignment layer includes (a) a moiety that is photochemically isomerizable but not photochemically crosslinked, (b) a moiety that is photochemically crosslinkable, and (c) a moiety that stabilizes a vertical alignment. The polymer can be used to produce a vertical alignment layer that has a liquid crystal alignment property enabling control of alignment at a low UV dose and that offers a large pretilt angle and superior optical stability. |
| US09340632B2 |
Process for producing fluorinated copolymer
A process for producing a fluorinated copolymer includes polymerizing a fluorinated monomer having a carboxylic acid functional group or a sulfonic acid functional group and tetrafluoroethylene by a solution polymerization method in a polymerization medium in the presence of a polymerization initiator to obtain a mixture. The mixture contains a fluorinated copolymer, an unreacted fluorinated monomer having the carboxylic acid functional group or the sulfonic acid functional group, and the polymerization medium. The mixture is continuously or intermittently transferred to an evaporation container equipped with a stirring machine and heated in the evaporation container with stirring to evaporate and recover a mixed liquid. The mixed liquid contains the unreacted fluorinated monomer and the polymerization medium with which the polymerization initiator is mixed. The recovered mixed liquid is heated to decompose the polymerization initiator. |
| US09340624B2 |
Process for producing cellulose derivatives of high bulk density, good flowability and/or dispersibility in cold water as well as low solution color
A particulate cellulose derivative is obtained in a process of grinding and drying a moist cellulose derivative which comprises the steps of A) providing a cellulose derivative having a moisture content of from 60 to 95 percent, based on the total weight of the moist cellulose derivative; B) grinding and partially drying the moist cellulose derivative in a gas-swept impact mill; C) contacting the ground and partially dried cellulose derivative with an additional amount of a drying gas outside the gas-swept impact mill; and D) subjecting the cellulose derivative to partial depolymerization after having contacted the cellulose derivative with a drying gas in step C). The obtained particulate cellulose derivative has a high untapped bulk density, a good flowability and a low color intensity. |
| US09340622B2 |
Synthetic immunogen useful for generating long lasting immunity and protection against pathogens
The present invention relates to a synthetic immunogen represented by the general formula 1, useful for generating long lasting protective immunity against various intracellular pathogens which are the causative agents of tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, AIDS, trypanosomiasis, malaria and also allergy, cancer and a process for the preparation thereof. The developed immunogen is able to circumvent HLA restriction in humans and livestock. The invention further relates to a vaccine comprising the said immunogen for generating enduring protective immunity against various diseases. The said vaccine is targeted against intracellular pathogens, more particularly the pathogen M. tuberculosis in this case. In the present invention, promiscuous peptides of M. tuberculosis are conjugated to TLR ligands especially; Pam2Cys to target them mainly to dendritic cells and therefore elicit long-lasting protective immunity. wherein, X1=a promiscuous CD4 T helper epitope selected from SEQ ID No. 1 to 98 OR nil; X2=a promiscuous CD8 T cytotoxic epitope selected from SEQ ID No. 99 to 103 OR nil; when X1=nil; X2=SEQ ID No. 99 to 103 and when X2=nil; X1=SEQ ID No. 1 to 98; Y=Lysine; and S=Serine. |
| US09340621B2 |
Binding molecules for BCMA and CD3
The present invention relates to a binding molecule which is at least bispecific comprising a first and a second binding domain, wherein the first binding domain is capable of binding to epitope cluster 3 of BCMA, and the second binding domain is capable of binding to the T cell CD3 receptor complex. Moreover, the invention provides a nucleic acid sequence encoding the binding molecule, a vector comprising said nucleic acid sequence and a host cell transformed or transfected with said vector. Furthermore, the invention provides a process for the production of the binding molecule of the invention, a medical use of said binding molecule and a kit comprising said binding molecule. |
| US09340619B2 |
DAC HYP compositions and methods
The present disclosure relates to compositions of daclizumab suitable for subcutaneous administration and methods of manufacturing thereof. |
| US09340617B2 |
Targeted/immunomodulatory fusion proteins and methods for making same
The present invention relates generally to the field of generating fusion proteins to be used in cancer therapy, and more specifically, to nucleotide sequences encoding the fusion proteins, wherein the chimeric fusion proteins comprises at least one targeting moiety and at least one immunomodulatory moiety that counteracts the immune tolerance of cancer cells. |
| US09340615B2 |
Anti-AXL antibody
An objective of the present invention is to decrease the immunogenicity of mouse-derived anti-AXL antibodies in humans by humanizing them. The present invention provides antibodies that can bind to a specific region in Anexelekto (AXL) and humanized antibodies that are produced based on such antibodies. The anti-AXL antibodies of the present invention have high antitumor activity, and are useful as agents for decreasing the AXL expression level, antitumor agents, and diagnostic agents for cancer. |
| US09340612B2 |
Stable aqueous formulations of adalimumab
The invention provides aqueous pharmaceutical adalimumab compositions suitable for long-term storage of adalimumab, methods of manufacture of these compositions, methods of administration, and kits containing same. |
| US09340611B2 |
Stable aqueous formulations of adalimumab
The invention provides aqueous pharmaceutical adalimumab compositions suitable for long-term storage of adalimumab, methods of manufacture of these compositions, methods of administration, and kits containing same. |