| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09354689B2 |
Providing energy efficient turbo operation of a processor
In one embodiment, a multicore processor includes cores that can independently execute instructions, each at an independent voltage and frequency. The processor may include a power controller having logic to prevent a first core from execution at a requested turbo mode frequency if the first core has a stall rate greater than a first stall threshold, and concurrently allow a second core to execute at a requested turbo mode frequency if the second core has a stall rate less than a second stall threshold. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09354687B2 |
Methods and apparatus for unsupervised wakeup with time-correlated acoustic events
Methods and apparatus for unsupervised wakeup of a device including receiving a first acoustic event at a first time and a second acoustic event at a second time, wherein the first and second acoustic events have scores above a first threshold identifying the first and second acoustic events as wakeup candidates for a wakeup phrase for an unsupervised wakeup of a device. It can be determined that the first acoustic event score is below a second threshold, which is higher than the first threshold and whether a difference between the first and second times is within a range to check for correlation in time between the first and second acoustic events. Occurrence of a wakeup event can be determined based upon the first and second times. |
| US09354684B2 |
Utility aware uninterruptible power supplies for computing facilities
The present principles are directed to utility aware uninterruptible power supplies. A method includes evaluating services, including service combinations, from among a set of services provided by a computing facility operating under an energy constraint, to select a subset of services to power down or maintain powered so as to maximize a total utility value of the computing facility while operating under the energy constraint. The method further includes powering down, or maintaining power to, the selected subset of services. |
| US09354673B2 |
Portable type electronic device, portable type electronic device group, and method of manufacturing portable type electronic device
A first antenna (31) is disposed closer to a rear touch panel (4) than to a display panel (2a) in the front-rear direction of a housing (20). The first antenna (31) is disposed so as to be offset with respect to the rear touch panel (4) in a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the housing (20) so that at least a part of the first antenna (31) does not overlap the rear touch panel (4) in the front-rear direction of the housing (20). With such a structure, the display panel and touch panel are provided at the front surface and rear surface, respectively, and good reception sensitivity can be obtained. |
| US09354663B2 |
Portable electronic device
A portable electronic device includes a first module, a second module, a housing, and a plurality of fasteners. The first module is configured to be coupled to a first side of the main housing, and the second module is configured to be coupled to a second side of the main housing opposite the first side. The fasteners configured to secure the first module to the main housing and the second module to the main housing. One of the main housing or the first module defines a plurality of recesses, the other one of the main housing or the first module comprises a plurality of hooks configured to latch to a respective recesses. |
| US09354662B2 |
Electronic apparatus and component for electronic apparatus
An electronic apparatus includes a first casing component that is provided with a through hole and made of metal, a second casing component that is integrally molded with the first casing component and made of resin, and a third casing component that covers the second casing component, wherein the second casing component is provided so as to extend from a face on one side of the through hole of the first casing component to a face on the other side of the first casing component through the through hole. The second casing component includes a fixing portion that fixes the second casing component to the first casing component, and a rib that is provided so as to stand over the first casing component in a position away from the through hole, and the third casing component being supported by the rib. |
| US09354661B2 |
Contoured edge controls for hand held devices
An embodiment provides an apparatus, including: a housing; a processor operatively coupled to a memory; and a display device displaying output from the processor; the display, the processor and the memory being disposed in the housing; said housing substantially forming a quadrilateral and including a shaped edge at one end thereof; said housing further comprising a contoured input device substantially matching the shaped edge. Other aspects are described and claimed. |
| US09354660B2 |
Electronic device
According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a first member, a second member, and a third member. The first member includes: a first end; a second end; an opening opened on the first end and on the second end; a first support protruding from an inner circumferential face of the opening and including a first face facing toward the first end; and a second support protruding from the inner circumferential face at a position nearer to the second end than the first support, including a second face facing toward the second end portion, and being at a position offset from the first support in a direction from the first end toward the second end. The second member is supported by the first face of the first support. The third member is supported by the second face of the second support. |
| US09354653B2 |
Power supply circuits
A power supply circuit includes a first power amplifier that amplifies an input signal; a high pass filter that removes frequency components that are lower than a predetermined first cutoff frequency from an output signal of the first power amplifier; a current detector that detects a current value of the output signal of the first power amplifier; a composite signal generation circuit that combines the input signal and an output signal of the current detector; a second power amplifier that amplifies an output signal of the composite signal generation circuit; a low pass filter that removes frequency components that are higher than a predetermined second cutoff frequency from an output signal of the second power amplifier; and a signal output terminal that combines a current of an output signal of the high pass filter and a current of an output signal of the low pass filter and then outputs the resultant signal. |
| US09354651B2 |
Sizing and tuning methodology for optimized motion control components and energy efficiency
Aspects of the present invention provide a tool for simulating a motion control system that simulates performance and energy for a given configuration. The simulation analysis considers a motion profile and one or more corresponding performance parameters, and the resulting configuration provides hardware elements, such as drives and motors, and settings of those elements. The simulation allows optimization for energy efficiency, as opposed to only speed or accuracy. |
| US09354644B2 |
Apparatus and method of temperature drift compensation
Practical electronics such as amplifiers or voltage references can have circuit imbalances due to manufacturing imperfections. For example, amplifiers can have an undesirable offset voltage. The offset voltage might also drift with temperature making the design of these devices difficult. Disclosed are techniques which decrease the amount of offset voltage which provide predictability of device parameters over a range of temperatures. |
| US09354641B2 |
Electric power system control with planning of energy demand and energy efficiency using AMI-based data analysis
A method, apparatus, system and computer program is provided for controlling an electric power system, including implementation of an energy planning process (EPP) system which can be used to plan a voltage control and conservation (VCC) system applied to an electrical distribution connection system (EEDCS). The EPP system plans modifications to the EEDCS as a result of operating the VCC system in the “ON” state, in order to maximize the level of energy conservation achieved by the VCC system control of the EEDCS. The EPP system may also identify potential problems in the EEDCS for correction. |
| US09354637B2 |
Method and system for controlling operation of a pump based on filter information in a filter information tag
The disclosure describes systems and methods relating generally to filtration. Even more particularly, this disclosure relates to controlling the operation of a pump using filter information. A removable filter can include an electronically readable tag storing filter information. The filter information can be read by a tag reader and rules applied to the filter information to determine whether or how to operate a pump. |
| US09354636B2 |
User-interface for pump system
A pump system including a motor, a user-interface, and a controller. The user-interface having a single bar graph comprised of light-emitting diodes to provide visual feedback to an operator. The bar graph is used for programming purposes and for providing a motor speed and run duration status to the operator. |
| US09354630B2 |
Flexible laser manufacturing systems and associated methods of use and manufacture
Embodiments of flexible laser manufacturing systems are disclosed herein. A flexible laser manufacturing system configured in accordance with one embodiment includes a plurality of laser processing stations. Each laser processing station can include a laser source configured to generate a laser beam for processing target material, and a first controller coupled to the laser source. The flexible laser manufacturing system also includes a second controller coupled to the first controller of the individual laser processing stations. The second controller is configured to monitor and instruct each of the first controllers for processing target material of each of the corresponding laser processing stations. |
| US09354625B2 |
Abnormality detection for isolating a control system
A mechanism is provided for effectively detecting an abnormality occurring in a control system and isolating the control system in which abnormality is acknowledged. The mechanism receives, from one or more control systems in the plurality of control systems, respective abnormality notifications for respective counter control systems to be monitored by the plurality of control systems. The mechanism adds up abnormality notifications transmitted from respective monitoring sections of the plurality of control systems so as to evaluate the reputation of a control system suspected to have an abnormality. The mechanism causes a protected area for operating the control system suspected to have an abnormality to restrict outbound traffic from at least the inside of the protected area, when an indication is identified that the control system is abnormal according to criteria from a result of the evaluation. |
| US09354623B2 |
Methods and systems for pipe management on a drilling rig
Apparatus and methods include a racker device for moving tubular stands on a drilling rig, a fingerboard cooperatively disposed to receive tubular stands from the racker device and to support the tubular stands in a vertical arrangement, and a racking control system in communication with the racker device and configured to control the racker device. The racking control system may include a tubular management system that receives data relating to a well plan and driller settings, assesses the well plan and driller settings, and based on the well plan and driller settings, develops a racking plan setting out proposed racking locations for the tubular stands to be used in a drilling procedure. |
| US09354620B2 |
System and method for triggering power transfer across an inductive power coupling and non resonant transmission
A triggerable power transmitter for power transmission from a primary coil to an inductively coupled secondary coil in a power receiver has a primary coil; a driver for electrically driving the primary coil; a front end receiving analog signal indicative of resonance properties of the primary coil and generating digital information in response to the analog signal; and a processor capable of: determining if said primary coil is coupled to a secondary coil based on the digital information, and triggering power from the primary coil to said secondary coil when said primary coil is inductively coupled to said secondary coil. The effective inductance of the primary coil increases reducing the resonance frequency when a secondary coil is inductively coupled to the primary coil. However, foreign material such as a metal sheet placed on the primary coil increases the effective resistance thus shortening the decay time of the resonance. |
| US09354618B2 |
Automated tuning of multiple fuel gas turbine combustion systems
Provided herein is a method for automated control of the gas turbine fuel composition through automated modification of the ratio of fuel gas from multiple sources. The method includes providing first and second fuel sources. The method further includes sensing the operational parameters of a turbine and determining whether the operational parameters are within preset operational limits. The method also adjusting the ration of the first fuel source to the second fuel source, based on whether the operational parameters are within the preset operational limits. |
| US09354610B2 |
Analog electronic timepiece
An analog electronic timepiece including: a second hand; a driver configured to drive the second hand; a current time display processor configured to control the driver to move the second hand at a first time interval such that the second hand indicates a second of a current time; and a measured time display processor configured to control the driver to move the second hand at a second time interval different from the first time interval such that the second hand indicates a second of a measured time. |
| US09354603B2 |
Laminated body having hologram
A card 1 includes: a card substrate 10; a transparent hologram layer 20 on a part of the substrate 10; and a surface layer 30 comprising a print layer 40 on the substrate 10 and the layer 20, is formed by a transparent material, and is printed with a color similar to the upper surface of the substrate 10. When a card surface 1a is viewed from the normal line, the layer 40 has the same color shading compared to the upper surface of the substrate 10, at the edge portion 22 of the layer 20. The layer 40 includes a gradation portion 43 wherein the color is gradually lighter from an outer edge portion 43a at the inner side of the edge portion 22 of the layer 20 toward the inner portion, a window portion 44 is formed at an image 21 portion of the layer 20. |
| US09354602B2 |
Image forming apparatus and duct
Image forming apparatus (1) including: external cover (63) covering outer side of side wall of housing (60) storing image forming portion (20), and having exhaust outlet (63f); equipment storage space (5) formed between side wall (62a) of housing (60) and external cover (63); opening (62f) formed in side wall (62a) and allowing inside of housing (60) to communicate with equipment storage space (S); exhaust fan (100) disposed in equipment storage space (S) and taking in air from housing (60) via opening (62f) and exhausting air from exhaust outlet (63f); heat generating equipment (70) disposed in equipment storage space (S); and duct (90) connecting air outlet (101b) of exhaust fan (100) and exhaust outlet (63f). Communicating portion (97), which allows inside and outside of duct (90) to communicate with each other, is formed in wall of duct (90) located on heat generating equipment (70) side. |
| US09354601B2 |
Liquid cooling device that arranges a coolant flowing direction in accordance with a temperature gradient of a cooling airflow and image forming apparatus incorporating the same
A liquid type cooling device, which is incorporated in an image forming apparatus, includes a heat receiving part including a heat receiving unit to transport heat from a cooling target to a coolant and a heat releasing part including a heat releasing unit, a cooling fan, and an air flowing space. The heat releasing unit has a coolant flowing path and an air flowing path through which air passes and conducts heat exchange with the coolant. The air flowing space has an air inlet port and an air outlet port. When the air flowing path has an upstream region and a downstream region along a coolant flowing direction of the coolant flowing path, air at high temperature flows into the upstream region of the air flowing path. Alternatively, the heat releasing unit may have a coolant inlet port, a coolant outlet port, and the air flowing path. |
| US09354596B2 |
Electrophotographic image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a main assembly, a developing cartridge, and a drum supporting frame detachably mountable to the main assembly while supporting the developing cartridge. The main assembly includes a door for opening and closing the main assembly, and a main assembly coupling engageable with a development coupling in interrelation with a closing operation of the door to transmit a driving force to the development coupling. |
| US09354595B2 |
Toner container and image forming apparatus including the toner container
An apparatus body of an image forming apparatus is provided with a drive transmission mechanism including a first rotation portion and a second rotation portion. An operation portion of a toner container includes a first connection portion to be connected to the first rotation portion. An opening and closing mechanism of the toner container includes a second connection portion to be connected to the second rotation portion. The opening and closing mechanism opens and closes a toner outlet by the second connection portion being rotated. |
| US09354589B2 |
Cleaner, image forming apparatus using the cleaner, and voltage setting device
A cleaner is provided. The cleaner includes at least two cleaning brush members to electrostatically remove residual toner on an object; a memory; a voltage applicator to apply a voltage to the cleaning brush members based on the setup voltage values stored in the memory; a current detector to detect the amounts of currents flowing through contact portions of the object with the cleaning brush members; and a setup voltage changing device to change the setup voltage values based on the amounts of currents detected by the current detector. The setup voltage changing device performs change of the setup voltage values for the cleaning brush members at a time. |
| US09354585B2 |
Contact member, image carrier, and image forming apparatus
A contact member is fitted in a cylindrical body that is substantially cylindrical and configurates an image carrier, and is supported by the cylindrical body while being in contact with an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical body at contact portions provided in three areas in a circumferential direction of the cylindrical body. All angles formed by two of straight lines passing through the contact portions and an axial center of the cylindrical body are more than about 90 degrees in a state in which the contact member is supported within the cylindrical body, when viewed from an axial direction of the cylindrical body. |
| US09354578B2 |
Systems and methods for forecasting supply or service consumption for a printing device
Methods and systems of forecasting consumption of a consumable for a machine are disclosed. A computing device receives consumption time series data for a consumable for a plurality of machines. The consumption time series data for each machine includes an amount of the consumable consumed by the machine during each of multiple time periods. For at least one of the plurality of machines, the computing device determines a model consumption forecast for the machine for each of multiple dynamic linear models based on the consumption time series data for the consumable for the machine and the dynamic linear model. The computing device further determines, for at least one of the machines, a final consumption forecast based on the model consumption forecasts. An amount of the consumable is provided for the at least one machine based on the final consumption forecast. |
| US09354576B1 |
Image forming system and discharge method of recording material in the same
Provided is an image forming system including a plurality of discharge units provided for discharging a recording material, an abnormality detection unit which detects conveyance abnormality of a recording material in a conveyance path in the image forming system, a position detection unit which detects a position of a user who performs a task of removing the recording material having caused the conveyance abnormality detected by the abnormality detection unit, a selection unit which selects a discharge unit, which is able to discharge a recording material remaining on a conveyance path of an upstream side and is nearest the position of the user detected by the position detection unit, from the plurality of discharge units, and a purge processing unit which allows the recording material remaining on the conveyance path of the upstream side from the discharge unit selected by the selection unit to be discharged from the discharge unit. |
| US09354572B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes: a rotatable endless belt type fixing member; a pressurizing member that is opposed to the fixing member and rotates; and a nip forming member that is arranged inside the fixing member, and forms a nip part by contact with the pressurizing member through the fixing member. The nip forming member includes: a heat-uniformizing member having bent portions opposed to each other; a heat-insulating member arranged inside the heat-uniformizing member; a heat-absorbing member arranged on an upper surface of the heat-insulating member; and a sliding sheet that covers a nip side of the heat-uniformizing member, and is held between the bent portions of the heat-uniformizing member and the heat-insulating member. The heat-uniformizing member and the heat-insulating member are fastened to each other by fitting a fitting part formed on the heat-uniformizing member to a fitted part formed on the heat-insulating member. |
| US09354570B2 |
Heater and image heating apparatus including the same
A heater includes a substrate, electrode portions, electrical contact portions, heat generating portions, and electroconductive line portions. The electrode portions include first group electrode portions and second group electrode portions. The electroconductive line portions include a main line portion extending from the electrical contact portions in the longitudinal direction, a first branch line portion branching from the main line portion so as to electrically connect with a first electrode portion of the first group electrode portions, and a second branch line portion branching from the main line portion so as to electrically connect with a second electrode portion of the first group electrode portions. The second electrode portion is spaced farther from the electrical contact portions than the first electrode portion in the longitudinal direction, and the electric resistance of the first branch line portion is larger than the electric resistance of the second branch line portion. |
| US09354566B2 |
Image forming apparatus with switchable demagnetizing coil and control method
An image forming apparatus having: a power source applying alternating current voltage to the magnetizing coil; a demagnetizing coil switchable between a conductive state and a cutoff state, and when in the conductive state, cancelling out a portion of a magnetic flux produced by the magnetizing coil; a contact switch and a semiconductor switch electrically connected in parallel, and, in combination, bringing the demagnetizing coil into the conductive state or the cutoff state; and a control unit opening or closing the switches separately. The control unit: opens or closes the semiconductor switch in synchronization with a zero-crossing of the alternating current voltage at least when the contact switch is open; opens or closes the contact switch only when the semiconductor switch is closed; and opens the semiconductor switch when the demagnetizing coil brought into the conductive state by the contact switch needs to be maintained in the conductive state. |
| US09354564B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and program
In an image forming apparatus for controlling temperature of a fixing section based on a color material amount obtained from image data, it is determined whether the image data is a specific image, and the temperature of the fixing section is controlled so that the temperature of the fixing section becomes a predetermined temperature without using the color material amount obtained from the image data in a case where it is determined that the image data is a specific image as a determination result. |
| US09354561B1 |
Image forming apparatus and light guide member
In a light guide member included in an image forming apparatus, a transmitting/reflecting portion transmits and reflects light that is emitted from a light source to enter one end of the light guide member in a longitudinal direction and be guided to the other end thereof in the longitudinal direction. The light reflected by the transmitting/reflecting portion is emitted from a first optical surface. The light transmitted through the transmitting/reflecting portion is emitted from a second optical surface. At a cross section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, a first outer peripheral surface has an arc shape including the first optical surface. Second outer peripheral surfaces expand from both ends of the first outer peripheral surface toward the second optical surface. |
| US09354558B1 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes a developing unit that develops an electrostatic charge image formed on an image holding member with a developer containing a toner, an intermediate transfer member, and a guide unit that guides at least one of the image holding member and the intermediate transfer member to a primary transfer position to cause a portion of the surface of the image holding member and a portion of the surface of the intermediate transfer member to follow each other, wherein the toner has a sea and island structure of a sea portion containing a binder resin and an island portion containing a release agent, and has a maximum frequent value in distribution of eccentricity B of the island portion containing the release agent and a skewness in the distribution of eccentricity B each falling within the specific ranges as described in the specification. |
| US09354556B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrying member; a transfer unit that includes a transfer member, first and second separating portions configured to separate ends of the transfer member that are on one side and on another side, respectively, from the image carrying member; an engaging unit that includes first and second engaging portions configured to engage with the first and second separating portions, respectively, the engaging unit being configured to separate the transfer member from the image carrying member when the first engaging portion engages with the first separating portion and the second engaging portion engages with the second separating portion; and a regulating member configured to regulate a movement of the engaging unit. The engaging unit is moved by the regulating member from the one side toward the other side or from the other side toward the one side. |
| US09354544B2 |
Developing device
A developing device includes: a developing frame having an opening; a developing roller that is arranged to the opening and is configured to carry developer; a supply roller configured to supply the developer to the developing roller, and a layer thickness regulation member configured to regulate a layer thickness of the developer carried on the developing roller. The developing frame includes: a developer accommodation chamber configured to accommodate the developer; a developer supply chamber configured to supply the developer, which is supplied from the developer accommodation chamber, to the supply roller; a developer return chamber that is arranged above the developer supply chamber and is configured to return the developer, which is scraped off by the layer thickness regulation member, to the developer accommodation chamber. The developer return chamber is provided with a developer returning unit configured to convey the developer to the developer accommodation chamber. |
| US09354541B2 |
Image forming apparatus and exposure position adjusting method
According to an image forming apparatus and an exposure position adjusting method of one aspect of the present invention, an exposure section scans a plurality of light beams to form a plurality of electrostatic latent images periodically along a main-scanning direction of the photoreceptor at a predetermined pitch in a sub-scanning direction of the photoreceptor. Next, a surface potential detecting section detects electric potentials of the plurality of electrostatic latent images formed on the surface of the photoreceptor, along the main-scanning direction. Furthermore, a controller calculates exposure timings by the plurality of light beams in the exposure section on the basis of a detection result by the surface potential detecting section. |
| US09354538B2 |
Charging device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A charging device includes a charger and a power supply circuit. The charger is disposed opposing a latent image bearer. The power supply circuit applies to the charger an alternating voltage obtained by superimposing a pulsating voltage on a direct-current voltage. The alternating voltage generates normal discharge from the charger to a surface of the latent image bearer and reverse discharge from the surface of the latent image bearer to the charger. A pulse ON time of a voltage component toward a reverse discharge side relative to a desired surface potential Vde of the latent image bearer is shorter than a pulse ON time of a voltage component toward a normal discharge side relative to the desired surface potential Vde of the latent image bearer. |
| US09354536B2 |
Two-component developing agent for developing electrostatic latent image and method for forming electrophotographic image
A two-component developing agent for developing an electrostatic latent image includes toner particles composed of toner base particles and an exterior additive attached on the toner base particles, and carrier particles composed of carrier core particles and a coating resin provided on the carrier core particles. The coating resin includes a sulfur atom and a resin obtained by polymerizing an isobutyl methacrylate monomer, and the toner base particles include a sulfur atom. |
| US09354533B2 |
Electrophotographic toner, two-component developer containing toner, and image forming apparatus
To provide an electrophotographic toner, which contains a crystalline resin, a non-crystalline resin, a colorant, and a releasing agent, wherein the toner has a storage elastic modulus of 5.0×104 Pa to 5.0×106 Pa at 80° C., and a storage elastic modulus of 2.0×102 Pa to 2.0×103 Pa at 140° C., and wherein the toner has a ratio (C)/((C)+(A)) of 0.10 or greater, where (C) is an integrated intensity of a diffraction spectrum derived from a crystalline structure, (A) is an integrated intensity of a diffraction spectrum derived from a non-crystalline structure, and the diffraction spectrum is a diffraction spectrum of the toner as measured by an X-ray diffraction spectrometer. |
| US09354532B2 |
Method of producing electrophotographic toner, toner cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A method of producing an electrophotographic toner includes aggregation and fusion steps. The aggregation step includes obtaining aggregates by mixing a first dispersion that contains pigment particles with a second dispersion that contains fine resin particles, and aggregating the pigment particles and the fine resin particles. The fusion step includes fusing the pigment particles and the fine resin particles by heating the aggregates. When the first dispersion is mixed with the second dispersion, the sign of the mean of zeta potential of the pigment particles in the first dispersion is set to be opposite to the sign of the mean of zeta potential of the fine resin particles in the second dispersion. In the first dispersion, the proportion of the pigment particles out of the total, having a sign opposite to the sign of the mean of zeta potential of the pigment particles is 10% or less. |
| US09354530B2 |
Carboxylic acid or acid salt functionalized polyester polymers
The present disclosure describes a polyester that contains plural pendant adjacent carboxylic acid or acid salt side groups for use in making a toner for use in imaging devices. |
| US09354525B2 |
Exposure method, exposure apparatus, and method for producing device
A liquid immersion exposure apparatus in which a substrate is exposed with an exposure beam, includes a projection optical system by which the substrate is exposed to the exposure beam, a first inlet disposed at a first position, which is capable of supplying a first liquid to a space adjacent to a bottom surface of the projection optical system, and a second inlet disposed at a second position which is different from the first position, the second inlet being capable of supplying a second liquid that is different from the first liquid to the space. |
| US09354522B2 |
Block copolymer and pattern forming method using the same
A block copolymer includes: a first block, and a second block copolymerized with the first block. The second block includes a silyl group including a ring-type functional group. |
| US09354519B2 |
Methods of forming patterns
A method of forming patterns includes: forming guide patterns on an underlying layer, forming a self-assembling block copolymer (BCP) layer on the guide patterns and the underlying layer, annealing the self-assembling BCP layer to form first polymer block domains and second polymer block domains which are alternately and repeatedly arrayed, and selectively removing the first polymer block domains. The guide patterns are formed of a developable antireflective material. In addition, the guide patterns are spaced apart from each other such that a width of each of the guide patterns is less than a distance between the guide patterns. |
| US09354518B2 |
Epoxy-functional radiation-curable composition containing an epoxy-functional siloxane oligomer for enhanced film retention and adhesion during solvent development
The present invention provides a silicone composition that includes an epoxy-functional organopolysiloxane resin and an epoxy-functional organosiloxane oligomer, and a method of preparing optical waveguides using the silicon composition. The present invention also provides a cured silicon composition, and an optical waveguide that includes the cured silicon composition. |
| US09354517B2 |
Resist composition and method for forming pattern
A resist composition includes: a solvent; and a resin in the solvent, the resin being prepared by the hydrolysis and condensation of an alkoxy group-containing compound that contains an alkoxy group bound to a silicon atom or a germanium atom in the presence of an acid or an alkali, wherein a portion of the resist composition irradiated with an energy radiation is insoluble in a developing solution. |
| US09354513B2 |
Photopolymer stamp manufacturing process and preparation system and photopolymer stamp dies
A photopolymer plate manufacturing process utilizes a modified substrate and mask to generate pre-cut and interchangeable single and multi-part stamp dies. Using a modified substrate and mask, a conventional photopolymer plate can be manufactured with a plurality of independent pattern or stamp areas that are readily removable and replaceable on the substrate and do not require cutting. The resulting material is also securable to a plastic stamp or the like without an adhesive, thereby facilitating a stamp with exchangeable patterns. Additionally, with a further modified mask, the stamp dies can be manufactured in two or more separable pieces, which can then be selectively interchanged among multiple stamp dies. An alignment tool facilitates installation of the stamp dies on the stamp mechanism. |
| US09354512B2 |
Resin mold for imprinting and method for producing the same
Provided is a resin mold for imprinting which is free from transfer defects, has excellent releasability from a resin subjected to imprinting, and does not cause any defect by imprinting. The resin mold for imprinting includes a resin layer having a recessed and projected pattern surface, an inorganic material layer formed with a uniform thickness on at least the recessed and projected pattern surface of the resin layer, and a release agent layer formed with a uniform thickness on at least the recessed and projected pattern surface of the inorganic material layer. |
| US09354511B2 |
Integrated mask-aware lithography modeling to support off-axis illumination and multi-tone masks
A method and apparatus of a novel modeling scheme for performing optical lithography simulation for a multi-tone mask with a plurality of mask tones is described. The method generates a transmission function matrix based on a setting of the multi-tone mask. The method applies the transmission function matrix to transform a formula for calculating light intensity from Abbe's form to Hopkins' form while maintaining the accuracy of Abbe's form. The method then computes the light intensity using the transformed formula. |
| US09354510B2 |
EUV mask and method for forming the same
An extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask can be used in lithography, such as is used in the fabrication of a semiconductor wafer. The EUV mask includes a low thermal expansion material (LTEM) substrate and a reflective multilayer (ML) disposed thereon. A capping layer is disposed on the reflective ML and a patterned absorption layer disposed on the capping layer. The pattern includes an antireflection (ARC) type pattern. |
| US09354504B1 |
System for controlling camera rig for capturing stereographic image
A system for controlling a camera rig to capture a stereographic image having a single signal generator which integrally processes encoder signals created from a plurality of motors, in which a single signal counter processes signals generated from the integrated signal generator, without the need for signal counters provided in the respective motors. |
| US09354499B2 |
Imaging device
An imaging device includes an imaging module configured to receive an imaging assembly, which is capable of creating images; a power control module configured to receive a control circuit assembly capable of controlling the imaging assembly and a power supply capable of supplying power for the control circuit assembly and the imaging assembly; and a rotating assembly. The rotating assembly includes installation member secured to the power control module and a movable member secured to the imaging module. The movable member is movable relative to the installation member to move the imaging module relative to the power control module, so that the imaging module can be moved without moving the whole imaging device. |
| US09354498B2 |
Light source unit, lighting apparatus and image projection apparatus
A light source unit includes a first reflector having a reflection face; a second reflector having a reflection face; a plurality of light sources; and a light condensing optical system disposed between the first reflector and the second reflector. Light beams emitted from the plurality of light sources are reflected at a first reflection position on the reflection face of the first reflector, and then reflected at a second reflection position on the reflection face of the second reflector. The second reflection position is close to an optical axis of the light condensing optical system compared to the first reflection position. The light condensing optical system is configured such that the light beam passes through the light condensing optical system at least two times when the light beams reflect between the first reflector and the second reflector. |
| US09354495B2 |
Projection display device and method for controlling the same
In at least one embodiment, a projection display device comprises a device main body, a shutter that opens and closes an opening for ventilation, and an electricity storage section that stores power from an external power source. If an interruption detecting section detects a power supply from the external power source is stopped and a time in which the power supply is stopped is longer than a predetermined time, the interruption detecting section detects that the external power source is interrupted. If the interruption of the external power source is detected, a control section performs a control to reduce a power consumption of the device main body and a control to drive the shutter so that the shutter is closed by the power supplied from the electricity storage section. |
| US09354492B2 |
Camera mount assembly, methods of production and uses thereof
A camera mount assembly is disclosed that includes: a camera having a camera body and a lens, a D-shaped telescopic handle, wherein the handle is coupled to the top of the camera body, a removable eyepiece, wherein the eyepiece is operatively coupled to the camera body, a viewfinder tube, and an inverted kinematic arm. A camera mount assembly is also disclosed that includes: a camera having a camera body and a lens, a D-shaped telescopic handle, wherein the handle is coupled to the top of the camera body, a removable eyepiece, wherein the eyepiece is operatively coupled to the D-shaped telescopic handle, a viewfinder tube rotatably coupled with the camera body, and an inverted kinematic arm. Additionally, a camera mount assembly is described that includes: a camera having a camera body and a lens, a D-shaped telescopic handle, wherein the handle is coupled to the top of the camera body, a viewfinder tube rotatably coupled with the camera body, a removable eyepiece, wherein the eyepiece is operatively coupled to the viewfinder tube, and an inverted kinematic arm. |
| US09354491B2 |
Photographic synchronization optimization system and method
A system and method for synchronizing a photographic lighting device to image acquisition by a camera using light emission profile information to position a light emission profile at a desired location in an image acquisition window. A light energy balance point of a light emission profile can be used to position the balance point at a desired location in an image acquisition window. |
| US09354490B2 |
Method, computer-accessible, medium and systems for facilitating dark flash photography
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to methods, computer-accessible medium and systems for dark flash photography. For example, described herein is an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for providing illumination and obtaining an image, which can include, e.g., a first arrangement configured to emit a flash of light including ultra-violet light and/or infra-red light to illuminate a scene and/or one or more subjects, and a second arrangement configured to obtain an image of the illuminated scene and/or one or more subject. A duration of time and/or an intensity level of the flash can be selected, e.g., so that wavelengths of the flash can be substantially invisible to a human eye. For example, the visibility of the flash perceived by the human eye can be, e.g., approximately 200 times less than the visibility of a standard flash of light having substantially the same amount of energy as the flash. |
| US09354483B2 |
Optical limiter, optical logic circuit, comparator, digital converter, optical transmission apparatus and optical processing method
An optical limiter includes a nonlinear medium that changes its own refractive index in accordance with an intensity of incident light, and outputs the incident light in a different direction depending on the refractive index, a first incident section by which reference light with a predetermined intensity and an optical signal with a modulated intensity is made incident on the nonlinear medium, a second incident section by which auxiliary light is made incident on a portion in the nonlinear medium through which the reference light and the optical signal pass, and an inverse output section that is provided at an incident position of the reference light outputted from the nonlinear medium when the optical signal is off, and outputs an optical signal obtained by inversion of the intensity of the incident light. |
| US09354480B2 |
Array substrate and liquid crystal display panel having a new pixel structure capable of improving luminance and white balance while providing a wider viewing angle
An array substrate includes a unit pixel group having first and second sub-pixel rows. The array substrate includes a plurality of gate lines extending along a first direction and adjacent to each other on a base substrate, a plurality of gate electrodes electrically coupled to the gate lines, a plurality of semiconductor patterns overlapping the gate electrodes, a plurality of data lines extending along a second direction and electrically coupled to first portions of the semiconductor patterns, a plurality of drain electrode patterns electrically coupled to second portions of the semiconductor patterns, and a plurality of pixel electrodes electrically coupled to the drain electrodes. The second portion of the semiconductor pattern spaced from the first portion thereof. The gate lines and the data lines are bent. Sub-pixels in the first sub-pixel row have opening areas that are different in size than that of sub-pixels in the second sub-pixel row. |
| US09354478B2 |
Display substrate and method of manufacturing the same, and display device
Disclosed is a display substrate, including: a substrate; gate lines and data lines arranged in a crisscrossed pattern on the substrate; pixel units surrounded by the gate lines and the data lines, each of which includes a thin film transistor and a pixel electrode; a color filter layer disposed on the substrate and including at least one color region, a vertical projection of the pixel electrode within one of the pixel units on the substrate being within a vertical projection of one color region of the color filter layer on the substrate; and a black matrix disposed over the gate lines, the data lines and the thin film transistors, a vertical projection of all of the gate lines, the data lines and the thin film transistors on the substrate being within a vertical projection of the black matrix on the substrate. |
| US09354476B2 |
Window panel for a display apparatus
A window panel includes a first rigid part including a rigid material, a second rigid part including the rigid material, and a base substrate interposed between the first and second rigid parts and including a folding part configured to be folded by an external force. The folding part includes a first area and a second area, which are alternately arranged on a plane surface of the base substrate substantially perpendicular to a thickness direction of the base substrate. The first area includes the rigid material, and at least a portion of the second area includes a soft material. Thus, the rigidity of the window panel is maintained by the rigid material and the flexibility of the window panel is improved by the soft material. |
| US09354472B2 |
Polarized light irradiating apparatus and method of irradiating polarized light for photo alignment
An apparatus capable of performing a photo alignment process on a plate-shaped member and realizing high productivity is provided. An irradiating unit irradiates an irradiated area with polarized light, and a stage movement mechanism transports first and second stages on which substrates are mounted alternately to the irradiated area and returns the same. A space larger than a length by which the substrate on the second stage passes through the irradiated area is secured between the first stage positioned at a first substrate mounting-and-collecting position and the irradiated area, and a space larger than a length by which the substrate on the first stage passes through the irradiated area is secured between the second stage positioned at a second substrate mounting-and-collecting position and the irradiated area. |
| US09354470B2 |
Electro-optic device
An emissive display system includes an electro-optic device having a first substantially transparent substrate including first and second surfaces, at least one of which includes a first electrically conductive layer. A second substantially transparent substrate includes third and fourth surfaces, at least one of which includes a second electrically conductive layer. A primary seal is disposed around perimeter portions of the first and second substrates, which define a cavity therebetween. An electro-optic medium is disposed in the cavity and is variably transmissive such that the electro-optic device is operable between substantially clear and darkened states. A plurality of beads are disposed in a central portion of the cavity and are movable to a perimeter portion of the cavity. A substantially transparent light emitting display is disposed adjacent to the electro-optic device, which is in the darkened state when the light emitting display is emitting light. |
| US09354469B2 |
Transflective liquid crystal display panel and display device
The present invention discloses a transflective liquid crystal display panel and a liquid crystal display device comprising the same. Each pixel unit of the transflective liquid crystal display panel comprises a transmission region and a reflection region. The transflective liquid crystal display panel further comprises a conductive polarizing film layer having a first polarizing direction in the reflection region and a second polarizing direction in the transmission region. |
| US09354465B2 |
Color filter substrate, liquid crystal display panel and dispersing method of monocolor quantum dots
A color filter substrate is provided with a layered structure containing monocolor quantum dots in areas of sub-pixels of at least one color of the pixels, and the layered structure is formed by laminating flake graphene layers and monocolor quantum dot layers alternatively. The color filter substrate can efficiently convert background light into monochromatic light, can increase the color gamut of the liquid crystal display panel, enhances color saturation, and improves display quality of the display screen. |
| US09354460B2 |
Detachment apparatus having arched drum pad and method for fabricating lightweight, thin liquid crystal display device using the same
A detachment apparatus having an arched drum pad and a method for fabricating a lightweight, thin liquid crystal display (LCD) device using the same are provided. The detachment apparatus includes: a table to which an object to be processed is loaded; an arched drum pad installed over the table and including O-rings formed on a lower surface thereof and a plurality of vacuum compartments demarcated by the O-rings; and a plurality of driving units configured to control a position of the drum pad. In case of using an auxiliary substrate to perform a process of a thin glass substrate, the auxiliary substrate can be easily separated from a liquid crystal panel in a cell state attached after processes are completed by using the arched drum pad having O-rings and a plurality of vacuum compartments. |
| US09354457B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and method for manufacturing the same
An object of the present invention is to protect exposed inspection pads with a conductive tape when the application of resin is ceased and to enhance the reliability of the inspection pads. A liquid crystal display device is provided with a transparent electrode formed on a superficial side of a CF board, a grounded electrode, an inspection pad and a switching device between the inspection pad and a signal line or a scanning line respectively formed in a terminal area a TFT board and a conductive tape that electrically connects the transparent electrode of the CF board, the grounded electrode and the inspection pad respectively of the TFT board. |
| US09354454B1 |
Eyeglass tether attachment systems
An eyeglass tether attachment system is a device that is used in pairs to attach to the ear-pieces of a pair of glasses that each end of a tether can be securely attached to. In addition, the exterior facing surface of the device can display a picture, sports indicia, or initials. The device has a spool and a cap that snap together and spring-rotate in relation to each other to open a passageway for inserting the eyeglass ear-piece. The cap has an integrally formed ring for attaching to the ends of a tether. |
| US09354452B2 |
Light-field immersive display and operation method thereof
A light-field immersive display includes a curved screen, at least two projectors, and at least two curved liquid crystal slits. Each of the projectors has a projected image on the curved screen. Boundaries of the two projected images are edge-blended. The curved liquid crystal slits are disposed on one side of the curved screen, and the curved liquid crystal slits are respectively disposed corresponding to the projected images. |
| US09354445B1 |
Information processing on a head-mountable device
Example methods and systems determine a position of a portion of a human eye based on electromagnetic radiation reflected from the surface of the human eye. A sensor associated with a computing device can be calibrated in response to an event. The computing device can receive data indicative of electromagnetic radiation reflected from a human eye. The computing device can determine a position of a portion of the human eye based on the received data indicative of electromagnetic radiation. The computing device can generate an indication including the position of the portion of the human eye. The computing device can transmit the indication from the computing device. In some embodiments, the data indicative of electromagnetic information can be provided by electromagnetic emitter/sensors mounted on a wearable computing device directed toward a human eye of a wearer of the wearable computing device. |
| US09354444B2 |
Annular optical spacer and optical lens system
An annular optical spacer includes an outer annular surface, an inner annular surface, a first side surface, a second side surface and a plurality of protruding structures. The inner annular surface surrounds a central axis of the annular optical spacer and is opposite to the outer annular surface. The first side surface connects the outer annular surface with the inner annular surface. The second side surface connects the outer annular surface with the inner annular surface and is opposite to the first side surface. The protruding structures are regularly disposed on the inner annular surface. Each of the protruding structures extends along a direction from the first side surface to the second side surface and is integrated with the inner annular surface. |
| US09354443B2 |
Optical scanning device and optical scanning unit
An optical scanning device includes a mirror that oscillates to scan incident visible light. The mirror includes a substrate, a metal film formed on the substrate, and an reflection enhancing film stacked on the metal film. |
| US09354437B2 |
Object finder mounting apparatus, systems for viewing objects and methods for using same
An object-finder-mounting apparatus comprises: a base for mounting the object-finder-mounting apparatus to an optical instrument; an object-finder-holder assembly coupled to the base and comprising one or more object-finder holders for removably holding an object finder; a projection plate moveably coupled to the base and/or the object-finder-holder assembly for movement between first and second positions; and a shadow-casting member. The object-finder-mounting apparatus is convertible between first and second working modes. In the first working mode, the projection plate is moved to the first position which permits use of the object finder held by the object-finder holders to locate objects. In the second working mode, the object finder is removed from the object-finder holders and the projection plate is moved to the second position. In the second working mode, the shadow-casting member casts a shadow onto the projection plate when the optical instrument is directed toward a luminous object. |
| US09354436B2 |
Microscope illumination method and microscope
The present invention relates to a method for illuminating a sample (10) in a microscope (26), the sample (10) being analysed in transmitted light bright field illumination or in incident light fluorescence illumination, wherein a white light LED (4) is used as the light source for the transmitted light bright field illumination, and a shutter (6) is activated at a location in the illumination beam path of the transmitted light bright field illumination during incident light fluorescence illumination and this shutter (6) is deactivated during transmitted light bright field illumination. |
| US09354434B2 |
Optical apparatus
Provided is an optical apparatus characterized in that alight from a light source is split to a first light and a second light, and the first light is focused onto an observation object, that an optical filter having a light shielding region for high resolution is disposed in at least one optical path selected from optical paths of the first light, second light and response light from the observation object, that an interference light formed by causing interference between the response light and the reference light in polarized states different from each other is split to multiple beams, and desired amplitude information signals are obtained from the multiple beams through a phase plate and a polarization plate to increase intensity of the second light, whereby the signal to noise ratio is improved. |
| US09354423B2 |
Lens module
A lens module may include a first lens having positive refractive power, a second lens having positive refractive power, a third lens having refractive power, a fourth lens having positive refractive power, a fifth lens having negative refractive power, and a sixth lens having negative refractive power and having one or more inflection points formed on an image-side surface thereof. An overall focal length of the lens module f and a focal length of the first lens f1 may satisfy the following Conditional Expression: 1.0 |
| US09354422B1 |
High acceleration actuator
Embodiments of the present disclosure include an actuator for steering mirrors with low magnetic hysteresis losses at high frequencies, with a fast step response, and without excessive heating of the steering mirror. Various embodiments of the actuator include two stators (a left stator and a right stator or an inner stator and an outer stator) and a rotor positioned between the stators. Each stator has a core assembly with one or more cores, two or more legs, and two or more faces positioned proximate to the rotor. The two or more legs are separated from one another by portions of the one or more coils. The rotor includes a core and a plurality of magnets, where each magnet has a face positioned proximate to the faces of one core assembly. |
| US09354420B2 |
Lens barrel and projector
A projection lens includes lens frames each of which holds a lens group and has cam pins, a guide barrel which has linear grooves through which the cam pins are inserted and into which the lens frames are sequentially fit and inserted, and a cam barrel into which the guide barrel is fit and inserted, which has cam grooves with which the cam pins protruding through the linear grooves engage, and which is rotated relative to the guide barrel to guide the cam pins along the linear grooves and the cam grooves and hence move the lens frames along the linear grooves. A protrusion is provided on the inner surface of the guide barrel, and the protrusion comes into contact with one of the lens frames so that the cam pins of the lens frame are positioned at the ends of the corresponding cam grooves. |
| US09354419B2 |
Adjustment device, lens barrel, and optical apparatus
An axis adjustment device, which may adjust an optical axis mismatch of an optical device at a high precision, and may perform an axis adjustment operation, includes a holding member to hold an optical device, a support member to support the holding member so that the holding member moves within a facing surface, a first rotating member to hold the holding member and rotatably supported around a first point S1 formed at a surface facing the support member, and a second rotating member to hold the holding member and to be rotatably supported around a second point formed at the surface facing the support member. The holding member moves within the surface facing the support member due to a rotation of one of the first and second rotating members and in order to adjust a relative position in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis of the optical device. |
| US09354417B2 |
Multi-port optical connection terminal assemblies supporting optical signal splitting, and related terminals and methods
Multi-port optical connection terminal assemblies, related terminals and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a multi-port optical connection terminal assembly may include an enclosure including an internal cavity, an input orifice, and optical connection nodes. The multi-port optical connection terminal assembly may also include an optical splitter comprising a body, an input optical fiber, and output optical fibers. At least a portion of the body of the optical splitter may be disposed outside the internal cavity of the enclosure. The input optical fiber of the optical splitter may be disposed outside the internal cavity of the enclosure, and the plurality of the output optical fibers of the optical splitter may be disposed inside the internal cavity. In this manner, the enclosure of the multi-port optical connection terminal assembly is not required to be sized to completely contain the optical splitter. |
| US09354410B2 |
Monolithically integrated, self-aligning, optical-fiber ferrule
A monolithically integrated, self-aligning, optical-fiber ferrule for a pigtailed opto-electronic module. The ferrule includes a body, a cavity defined within the body, a lateral alignment structure, and an optical-fiber stop. The cavity is to accept and align an optical fiber with an end of the cavity to face an optical aperture of an opto-electronic component. The lateral alignment structure is to self-align laterally the optical fiber with the optical aperture. The optical-fiber stop is coupled to the body, to self-align vertically the optical fiber. The body, the cavity, the lateral alignment structure and the optical-fiber stop are integrated together as a portion of a monolithically integrated chip. A system and a pigtailed opto-electronic engine that include the ferrule are also provided. |
| US09354409B2 |
Optical receptacle and optical module
An optical receptacle has a first optical surface which receives incidence of light from a light emitting element, a reflecting surface which reflects the light along a substrate, a light separating section which separates light reflected at the reflecting surface into monitor light and signal light, a second optical surface which emits the monitor light toward a light receiving element, and a third optical surface which emits the signal light toward an optical fiber. The light separating section has a plurality of splitting transmissive surfaces which are vertical surfaces with respect to the optical axis of the light reflected at the reflecting surface and a plurality of splitting reflecting surfaces which are inclining surfaces with respect to the optical axis of the light reflected at the reflecting surface. The splitting transmissive surfaces and the splitting reflecting surfaces are alternately disposed in a first direction and in a second direction. |
| US09354406B2 |
Carrier modules for optical subassemblies and methods for assembling optical packages
An optical subassembly includes an optical device assembly including an active device and an optical fiber cable operably connected to the active device that sends optical signals to the active device and receives optical signals from the active device. A carrier module has a cable receiving space that receives the optical fiber cable therein. The carrier module includes a device support structure that supports the active device for placement on a mating surface during controlled manufacturing. |
| US09354397B2 |
Optical connector having a plurality of optical fibres with staggered cleaved ends coupled to associated microlenses
The disclosure generally relates to sets of optical waveguides such as optical fiber ribbons, and fiber optic connectors useful for connecting multiple optical fibers to other optical fibers or optical devices. In particular, the disclosure provides an efficient, compact and reliable optical fiber connector (100) that incorporates an optically transmissive substrate (120) receiving the optical fibers (132) in V-grooves on a first major surface thereof with their angle cleaved ends (126) arranged in a staggered arrangement so as to redirect light to an associated microlens (128) at the opposite surface of the transparent substrate (120). |
| US09354395B2 |
Optical waveguide element and method of producing the same
An optical waveguide element includes a cladding portion made of a silica-based glass, and an optical waveguide positioned in the cladding portion and made of a silica-based glass in which a ZrO2 particle is dispersed. |
| US09354392B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the steps of preparing a substrate; forming first and second layers on the substrate; forming a suspended mask on the substrate by etching the first and second layers, the suspended mask including a shield portion having a space between the second layer and the substrate, a terrace portion being disposed apart from the shield portion, a supporting portion connecting the shield portion and the terrace portion, and an opening between the shield portion and the terrace portion, the shield portion extending in a first direction; and growing a semiconductor layer on a surface of the substrate in the first region and the fourth region using the suspended mask. The shield portion has a width varying in the first direction, and the semiconductor layer has a thickness varying in the first direction. |
| US09354389B2 |
Integrated photonic component and method of designing the same
An integrated photonic component (100) for polarization insensitive wavelength multiplexing includes an arrayed waveguide grating, AWG, (1) having a predetermined polarization splitting and a MZI-based polarization beam splitter (8) that is configured to compensate the predetermined polarization splitting of the AWG (1). The result is a fabrication tolerant integrated photonic component (100) that is operable over a wide number of limited bandwidth wavelength channels of a wavelength division multiplexing, WDM, system. A photonic integrated circuit, PIC, (200) for use in a WDM system is provided. The PIC (200) includes the integrated photonic component (100). A method of designing the integrated photonic component (100) is also described. |
| US09354381B2 |
Information processing apparatus, calculation method, program, and storage medium
An information processing apparatus, a calculation method, a program, and a storage medium for generating a uniformly distributed discrete pattern. To calculate a spatial arrangement of a plurality of elements of a discrete pattern, the plurality of elements being arranged in a spatially discrete manner, an information processing apparatus according to the present invention determines, for each of the elements, a density in an initial position given to the element from a density distribution of the elements in a region where the elements are arranged in the discrete pattern and places, for the initial position of each of the elements, a figure having a size corresponding to the density and representing a region where the element repels other elements and a movement range of the figure. The information processing apparatus minimizes an objective function, computes an optimal solution, and outputs the optimal solutions. |
| US09354379B2 |
Light guide based optical system for laser line generator
A laser line generator system that utilizes a light guide element to convert high energy coherent light generated by a high fill-factor laser diode bar into homogenous light, and utilizes one or more slow-axis relay lenses to image the homogenous light such that it forms a homogenous line illumination pattern on an illumination plane. The light guide utilizes parallel or down-tapered side walls to mix received coherent light in the slow-axis direction by way of total internal reflection. A Keplerian telescope including two cylinder lenses is optionally used in place of the slow-axis relay lens. Optional fast-axis lenses are used to assist in focusing the homogenous light at the illumination plane. The laser light generator forms, e.g., a single-pass imaging system for a scanning/printing apparatus in which the homogenous line illumination pattern is directed onto a linearly arranged series of spatial light modulators, such as Digital Micromirror Devices (DMDs). |
| US09354375B2 |
Grid polarizing element and apparatus for emitting polarized UV light
A non-reflection type grid polarizing element can stably provide a desired polarizing effect even when the grid polarizing element is used under conditions such as in an oxidizing environment (e.g., when the polarizing element is used to polarize the ultraviolet light). The grid polarizing element is easy to fabricate. The grid polarizing element selectively transmits particular polarized light among incident light through the polarizing element to polarize the incident light. The grid polarizing element includes a transparent substrate and a grid disposed on the transparent substrate. The grid has a plurality of linear portions arranged like a stripe. Each of the linear portions has a dominant layer made from titanium nitride or titanium oxynitride. The linear portions contain no simple metal layers. |
| US09354374B2 |
Polarizer with wire pair over rib
Wire grid polarizers, and methods of making wire grid polarizers, including an array of parallel, elongated nano-structures disposed over a surface of a substrate. Each of the nano-structures can include a first rib disposed over a surface of a substrate and a pair of parallel, elongated wires, each laterally oriented with respect to one another, and disposed over the first rib. The wire grid polarizers can be durable with high transmission of one polarization of light, high contrast, and/or small pitch. The wire grid polarizers can also have high absorption or high reflection of an opposite polarization of light. |
| US09354372B2 |
Optical laminate with polarizing film
An optical laminate in which a polarizing film including a polyvinyl alcohol-based resin having oriented iodine is bonded on a first surface of the polarizing film to an optical film through an optically transparent adhesive layer is provided. The polarizing film exhibits a property that a value expressed by the following formula: Aa×(Is/Ia), is 0.53 or more, where: Aa represents an absorbance; Ia represents a value obtained by integrating a distribution of integrated intensities in the thickness direction of the polarizing film; and Is represents a value obtained by integrating, a distribution of integrated intensities in the thickness direction of the polarizing film; and the adhesive layer exhibits a property that a difference between a refractive index of the adhesive layer and a refractive index in the absorption axis direction of the polarizing film at the first surface of the polarizing film is 0.08 or less. |
| US09354368B2 |
Glass panel having sun-shielding properties
The invention relates to solar-control glazing comprising a glass substrate and a solar-control thin-film multilayer, said thin-film multilayer incorporating a film selectively absorbing infrared radiation having a wavelength longer than 800 nm, said absorbing film consisting of a titanium oxide substituted with an element X chosen from Nb or Ta, the atomic percentage [X/Ti+X] lying between about 4% and about 9% and the thickness of said absorbing film lying between about 20 and about 200 nanometers. |
| US09354367B2 |
Color material dispersion liquid, color resin composition for color filters, color filter, liquid crystal display device, and organic light-emitting display device
An object of the present invention is to provide a color material dispersion liquid which is able to form a coating film with high luminance, excellent heat resistance and excellent light resistance. Disclosed is a color material dispersion liquid including a color material represented by the following general formula (I), a dispersant, and a specific solvent, wherein molybdenum and tungsten are contained in a polyoxometalate anion in the color material, and a molar ratio between the molybdenum and the tungsten is 0.4:99.6 to 15:85: (Symbols shown in the general formula (I) are described in the Description.) |
| US09354365B2 |
Wavelength dispersing device
A compact wavelength dispersing device and a wavelength selective optical switch based on the wavelength dispersing device is described. The wavelength dispersing device has a folding mirror that folds the optical path at least three times. A focal length of a focusing coupler of the device is reduced and the NA is increased, while the increased optical aberrations are mitigated by using an optional coma-compensating wedge. A double-pass arrangement for a transmission diffraction grating allows further focal length and overall size reduction due to increased angular dispersion. |
| US09354362B2 |
Optical devices based on diffraction gratings
Embodiments of the present invention relate to planar optical devices composed of one or more sub-wavelength diffraction grating layers. In one embodiment, an optical device includes a first substantially planar reflective structure (104,1904), a second substantially planar reflective structure (106,1906), and a substantially planar sub-wavelength grating layer (102,1902) disposed between the first reflective structure and the second reflective structure. The grating layer is configured with lines (208-211,214-217) having line widths, line thicknesses, and line period spacing selected to control phase changes in different portions of a beam of light transmitted through the optical device. |
| US09354361B2 |
Splicing-screen border weakening structure and splicing screen
A splicing-screen border weakening structure includes a transparent solid element through which a light ray is able to penetrate. The transparent solid element includes a fixing surface which is used for fixing to the border and a light-ray exiting surface which is opposite to the fixing surface, and further includes an inner area which is opposite to the border and an outer area which is opposite to an edge display area of the display screen. A first prism structure is at least arranged at a position corresponding to the inner area of the light-ray exiting surface. A light ray exits from the edge display area and enters into the outer area of the transparent solid element, and a part of the light ray is deflected by the first prism structure of the light-ray exiting surface and exits from an inner area of the light-ray exiting surface. |
| US09354357B2 |
Water soluble high syndiotactic polyvinyl alcohol
A water soluble polyvinyl alcohol copolymer having a diad syndiotacticity of greater than about 60% and less than about 70%. In some embodiments, the water soluble polyvinyl alcohol copolymer is soluble in water at a concentration of at least 1 wt % at a temperature of less than 100° C. In other embodiments, the composition is soluble in water at a concentration of at least 5 wt % at a temperature in the range from about 90° C. to less than 100° C. The high solubility of the high syndiotactic poly vinyl alcohols disclosed herein may provide various advantages as described herein, including ease of processing and decreased use of harmful solvents. |
| US09354351B2 |
High throughput pulse height analyzer
A method and system for acquiring spectral information from an energy sensitive nuclear detector is disclosed. The method includes detecting nuclear radiation at a detection device and generating an electronic input pulse indicative of energy deposited in the detection device. The method further includes integrating the electronic input pulse at an integrating device to produce an integrated output signal and digitally sampling the integrated output signal of the integrating device at intervals to produce a stream of digital samples. The method further includes resetting the integrator synchronously with a sampling clock when a limit condition is reached. |
| US09354345B2 |
Method and device for dynamic control of delays in gun controller
A method controls a delay of an air-gun in an aquatic seismic source. The method includes a step of receiving an attribute of the air-gun during the aquatic seismic survey; a step of calculating, based on a time-delay algorithm that uses the attribute, the asynchronization time of the air-gun; a step of determining whether the asynchronization time is smaller than a given time threshold; a step of instructing a controller to (1) wait for a predetermined time before calculating again the asynchronization time of the air-gun if the asynchronization time is smaller than the given time threshold, or (2) calculate an updated asynchronization time for the air-gun based on the attribute if the asynchronization time is larger than the given time threshold; and a step of sending the updated asynchronization time to a gun controller of the air-gun for adjusting a delay time for firing the air-gun. |
| US09354344B2 |
Interfacing marine survey devices using acoustic transducers
Techniques are disclosed relating to acoustically interfacing marine survey devices. In one embodiment, a system includes survey equipment, first and second acoustic transducers, and a first device. In this embodiment, the first acoustic transducer is coupled to the survey equipment and configured to perform at least one of receiving survey information and sending control information. In this embodiment, the first device is not directly coupled to the survey equipment. In this embodiment, the second acoustic transducer is coupled to the first device and configured to perform at least one of sending survey information and receiving control information. In one embodiment, the first acoustic transducer is included in or coupled to a streamer cable. |
| US09354343B2 |
Declination compensation for seismic survey
In seismic survey for icy waters, streamers are towed behind a vessel under the water's surface to avoid ice. GPS readings may not be consistently obtained because the ice prevents a tail buoy with a GPS receiver from trailing from streamer at the surface. Instead, a device tows on the streamer under the water's surface. The streamer's absolute position is tracked by intermittently bringing the towed device toward the surface so GPS readings can be obtained. The streamer's absolute position can then be used in conjunction with compass readings and can correlate various seismic sensor signals obtained along the streamer during the survey. The compass readings can be corrected for declination using declinometer readings, which can be compensated for iron effects from the vessel or other device carrying the declinometer. |
| US09354340B2 |
Strike and dip tooltip for seismic sections
A method for displaying exploration and production (E&P) data set during an E&P tool session of a field having a subterranean formation. The method includes generating, by an E&P tool executing on a computer processor during the E&P tool session, an E&P data set based on a subterranean formation field data set, displaying, to a user controlling the E&P tool session, the E&P data set as a multi-dimensional canvas, generating, by the computer processor and in response to a user input identifying a point in the multi-dimensional canvas, a strike&dip tool tip, and further displaying the strike&dip tool tip superimposing the multi-dimensional canvas, wherein the strike&dip tool tip is tagged to the point in the multi-dimensional canvas. |
| US09354339B2 |
Systems and methods for combining triaxial geophone data for localizing nearby transient seismic sources
In one embodiment, a method of processing seismic data using a single triaxial geophone is disclosed, where the method comprises acts of calibrating the single triaxial geophone sensor to determine a position and an orientation relative to a surrounding environment, configuring the single triaxial geophone sensor to receive seismic data from the surrounding environment along three orthogonal axes, measuring, with the single triaxial geophone sensor, a plurality of time series of seismic data from the surrounding environment for the three orthogonal axes, storing, with a computer system coupled to the single triaxial geophone sensor, the time series of seismic data from the surrounding environment for the three orthogonal axes, and processing, with the computer system, the time series of seismic data to identify a plurality of seismic waves of different polarizations. |
| US09354333B2 |
Radiation detection apparatus and imaging system
A radiation detection apparatus, comprising a housing including a first plate portion and a second plate portion arranged to face each other, a scintillator configured to convert radiation into light, supported by a supporting portion arranged in a side of the second plate portion in the housing, a sensor panel including a sensor array in which a plurality of sensors for detecting light are arrayed, interposed between the scintillator and the first plate portion in the housing, and a member interposed between the first plate portion and the sensor panel in the housing, wherein the sensor panel is arranged to position an outer edge of the sensor panel outside an outer edge of the scintillator, and the member is arranged to position an outer edge of the member inside the outer edge of the scintillator. |
| US09354332B2 |
Detector array with time-to-digital conversion having improved temporal accuracy
A detector (22) detects an event. First and second time-to-digital converters (TDCs) (70, 72) generate first and second time stamps (TS1, TS2) for the detection of the event. The first TDC and the second TDC are both synchronized with a common clock signal (62) that defines a fixed time offset between the second TDC and the first TDC. An autocalibration circuit (120) adjusts the first TDC and the second TDC to keep the time difference between the second time stamp and the first time stamp equal to the fixed time offset between the second TDC and the first TDC. The detector may be a detector array, and trigger circuitry (28) propogates a trigger signal from a trigger detector of the array of detectors to the first and second TDC's. Skew correction circuitry (132, 134, 136, 142, 60, 162) adjusts a timestamp (TS) based on which detector is the triggering detector. |
| US09354326B2 |
Liquid resistant digital detector
A radiographic imaging detector has photoimaging pixels disposed in an array, control electronics for controlling operation of the array to capture radiographic images, and a voltage source for powering the array of photoimaging pixels and the control electronics. A housing with multiple parts encloses at least the array and the control electronics and provides a seating for the voltage source. A first part has a first mating surface, a second part has a second mating surface. The first and second mating surfaces are disposed adjacent to each other and define a gap therebetween with a hydrophobic material deposited along at least one of the first and second mating surfaces. |
| US09354323B2 |
Satellite positioning receiver and proxy location system
To reduce power consumption in a user terminal, especially mobile devices, a system and method are introduced that use terrestrial beacons as a location proxy when satellite positioning signals are not available. The geographic locations of the terrestrial beacons need not be known to use the beacons as a proxy for a satellite positioning signals derived location. |
| US09354322B2 |
Configuring Global Navigation Satellite System receiver units via over-the-air communications with control center
A telematics unit incorporating an antenna for receiving Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals from GNSS signal sources, and a GNSS receiver supporting over-the-air configuration is described herein. The telematics unit is configured with a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions for facilitating the over-the-air configuration of the GNSS receiver by acquiring GNSS status information relating to multiple supported GNSS signal sources. Thereafter, the telematics unit forwards GNSS selection information, including at least GNSS requirements information and the GNSS status information, to a GNSS control center. In response, the GNSS receiver receives a GNSS type selection notification message from the GNSS control center. The GNSS receiver applies information contained within the GNSS type selection notification to configure GNSS type-specific components to operate according to a GNSS type-specific mode. |
| US09354320B2 |
Method of determining adequacy and adequacy determining device
A method of determining adequacy of acquisition includes: attempting to acquire a satellite signal from a satellite and decoding first satellite orbit data; and determining the adequacy of acquisition of the satellite signal by using the first satellite orbit data and second satellite orbit data that has been acquired from the satellite. |
| US09354313B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and method for acquiring ultrasound data
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus including oscillation elements configured to transmit toward and receive from a region of a subject, a receiving delay setting unit configured to divide the oscillation elements into oscillation element groups and set a common delay to oscillation elements included in each of the oscillation element groups in accordance with an imaging condition, an adding unit configured to add received signals transmitted from the oscillation elements in accordance with the delay set by the received delay setting unit, and an image generating unit configured to generate image data in accordance with received signal added by adding unit. |
| US09354312B2 |
Sonar system using frequency bursts
A sonar system using frequency bursts. A sonar system for use with a vessel may include a sonar module having a transmitting element configured to generate a transmit signal, where the transmit signal comprises one or more bursts, and where at least one burst comprises a first portion having a first frequency and a second portion having a second frequency different than the first frequency. The sonar system may also include a transducer array in communication with the sonar module, where the transducer array is configured to (i) receive the transmit signal from the transmitting element, (ii) produce one or more sonar beams based on the first frequency and the second frequency, and (iii) receive one or more sonar return signals from an underwater environment. |
| US09354310B2 |
Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer-readable media for source localization using audible sound and ultrasound
A method of signal processing includes calculating a range based on information from a reflected ultrasonic signal. Based on the calculated range, one among a plurality of direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation operations is selected. The method also includes performing the selected operation to calculate an estimated direction of arrival (DOA) of an audio-frequency component of a multichannel signal. Examples of DOA estimation operations include operations based on phase differences between channels of the multichannel signal and operations based on a difference in gain between signals that are based on channels of the multichannel signal. |
| US09354309B2 |
Apparatus and method for realizing synchronization image
A method and apparatus for realizing a synchronization image. The method includes transmitting an ultrasonic signal to an object, obtaining vector components of at least two points included in the object based on an echo signal reflected from the object, and realizing a synchronization image of the object, which indicates whether motions of the at least two points have been synchronized, by using the obtained vector component. |
| US09354308B1 |
Micro climate corrections for radar interferometry measurements
A method for monitoring movement of a surface using ground based radar interferometry measurements includes identifying micro climates on the surface and determining boundaries of the micro climates on the surface. One or more first sensors are arranged at a measurement site for measuring first atmospheric conditions at the measurement site. One or more additional sensors are arranged in each of the micro climates for measuring atmospheric conditions in the micro climates. An atmospheric correction is determined for each of the micro climates. The atmospheric correction for each micro climate is based on the first atmospheric conditions at the measurement site and the atmospheric conditions at the micro climate. The ground based radar interferometry measurements are performed across the surface, and the ground based radar interferometry measurements within the boundary of each micro climate are corrected using the atmospheric correction for the micro climate. |
| US09354307B2 |
System and method for volume visualization in ultra-wideband radar imaging system
There are provided an ultra-wideband radar imaging system comprising an antenna with at least one receiver and a plurality of transmitters operating in multi-static mode, method of operating thereof and volume visualization unit to be used in conjunction with the multi-static ultra-wideband radar imaging system. The method comprises: receiving by said at least one receiver a plurality of signals, each respectively representing return data in a channel associated with the receiver and one of the transmitters among said plurality of transmitters, thus giving rise to a plurality of spatial data channels; among said plurality of spatial data channels selecting data channels for further processing; and providing volume visualization by processing data corresponding merely to the selected spatial data channels. |
| US09354306B1 |
Single antenna altimeter system and related method
A system and related method is disclosed for determining a range between a single antenna array and a radio-frequency reflective surface. The system includes a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) signal generator which transmits the FMCW transmission signal through a pair of bias tees and a coupler prior to reaching a circulator. The circulator selectively routes the transmission signal to the single antenna array for transmission. As the transmission signal is reflected from the RF reflective surface, the single antenna array receives the reflected FMCW reception signal. The coupler receives the reception signal and delays and selectively routes the reception signal to a mixer which mixes the reception signal with a transmission signal input to create a low frequency signal. The low frequency signal passes through the pair of bias tees, is converted to digital, and received by a processor which determines the range to the reflective surface. |
| US09354300B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and ultrasound image producing method
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes a region-of-interest setting unit for setting a region of interest in a given region of a B mode image, a controller for controlling a transmission circuit and a reception circuit to transmit ultrasonic beams composed of fundamental waves having a first frequency with forming transmission focuses at a plurality of points set in and near the region of interest and receive ultrasonic echoes having a second frequency, which is a harmonic component of the fundamental waves, thereby to obtain reception data for measuring a sound speed, and a sound speed calculator for calculating ambient sound speeds at the points based on the obtained reception data for measuring a sound speed. |
| US09354297B2 |
Position location using phase-adjusted transmitters
Systems and methods are provided for determining position location information in a wireless network. In one embodiment, timing offset information is communicated between multiple transmitters and one or more receivers. Such information enables accurate position or location determinations to be made that account for timing differences throughout the network. In another embodiment, transmitter phase adjustments are made that advance or delay transmissions from the transmitters to account for potential timing differences at receivers. In yet another embodiment, combinations of timing offset communications and/or transmitter phase adjustments can be employed in the wireless network to facilitate position location determinations. |
| US09354296B2 |
Dynamic selection of unmanned aerial vehicles
A device receives a request for a flight path from a first location to a second location in a region, and calculates the flight path based on the request and based on one or more of weather information, air traffic information, obstacle information, regulatory information, or historical information associated with the region. The device determines required capabilities for the flight path based on the request, and selects, from multiple UAVs, a particular UAV based on the required capabilities for the flight path and based on a ranking of the multiple UAVs. The device generates flight path instructions for the flight path, and provides the flight path instructions to the particular UAV to permit the particular UAV to travel from the first location to the second location via the flight path. |
| US09354293B2 |
Pilot beacon system for indoor positioning
The system and method uses a one or more pilot beacons to more accurately locate the position of an indoor mobile device. Modulation and level control of the co-pilot beacons provides a third dimension, z-axis, of positioning. An augmented Position Determining Entity (“aPDE”) can be used which does not modify the existing PDE in the network, and facilitates and ensures high-integrity information during a 2D to 3D positioning upgrade. |
| US09354292B2 |
System and method of transmitting location data based on wireless communication activity
Systems and methods of transmitting location data based on wireless communication activity can include a location transmitting device having a sensor communicatively coupled to a low-power transmitter. The transmitter (e.g., a Bluetooth™ transmitter) can transmit location data from which an electronic device can derive its location. The sensor can be a sensor configured to detect wireless data transmissions (e.g., cellular data transmissions). In one example, the transmitter can transmit location data in response to the sensor detecting data transmissions of an electronic device. The transmitter can remain in an idle, standby, or otherwise low-power state until the sensor detects data transmissions of an electronic device. In response, the transmitter can transmit data which can be received by the electronic device. The electronic device can then derive the electronic device's location from the data transmitted by the transmitter. |
| US09354290B2 |
Method and magnetic resonance system to generate an MR image with a tracking factor
For the generation of a magnetic resonance (MR) image of a predetermined volume segment of a living subject, a tracking factor is determined for each of different regions of the volume segment, from which the position of the respective region can be determined depending on a position of a moving area of the subject. MR image data of the volume segment are acquired for different positions of the moving area. The position of the moving area is calculated depending on the position and the tracking factor of the respective region, and the MR image data of the respective region are reconstructed using the MR image data of the volume segment corresponding to the calculated position of the moving area. The MR image of the predetermined volume segment is generated as a combination of the constructed MR image data of the regions. |
| US09354287B2 |
System and apparatus for receiving magnetic resonance (MR) signals from an imaging subject
An apparatus for receiving magnetic resonance (MR) signals emitted by an imaging subject includes a receiver coil configured to detect the MR signals and a frequency translating preamplifier coupled to the receiver coil. The frequency translating preamplifier is configured to amplify the MR signals and to convert a frequency of the MR signals to an intermediate frequency. The frequency translating preamplifier may include an amplifier having a predefined gain, a frequency filter configured to filter at least one predetermined frequency and a mixer configured to convert the frequency of the MR signals to the intermediate frequency. |
| US09354281B2 |
Magnetic field sensor
A magnetic field sensor for measuring a magnetic field at a sensor location has a printed circuit board, including electrically insulating material; a magnetic field sensor element situated on the printed circuit board and connected via electrical contacts to first printed conductors provided on the printed circuit board; and at least one second printed conductor for generating a test magnetic field, the second printed conductor being provided on the printed circuit board and generating a predetermined test magnetic field when a calibration current is applied at the sensor location. |
| US09354280B2 |
Current sensor, table tap with current sensor, and magnetic substance cover for current sensor
A current sensor including: a current bar through which a current flows; a magnetic substance core configured to cover at least a part of the current bar; a magnetic field measurement element that measures a magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the current bar; a substrate to which the magnetic substance core and the magnetic field measurement element are fixed; and a magnetic substance cover that covers the magnetic substance core, and aligns the magnetic substance core by being fixed to the substrate; wherein slits corresponding to a width of the current bar are formed on side surfaces of the magnetic substance cover, and the current bar is aligned with the magnetic substance cover by protruding from the slits. |
| US09354279B2 |
Magnetic sensor device for generating an output in accordance with a magnetic field intensity applied to a magnetoelectric conversion hall effect element
Provided is a magnetic sensor device, which is configured to connect each terminal of a Hall element to another end of a variable resistor having one end connected to GND by switching of four switches. Thus, a detection voltage level for a magnetic field intensity can be arbitrarily set with a small-scale circuit. The detection voltage level is determined only by the resistance ratio, and hence the influence of fluctuations in power supply voltage and manufacturing fluctuations can be suppressed. This configuration can simplify signal processing and achieve higher-speed signal processing. |
| US09354278B2 |
Device for detecting normal, abnormal or deteriorated battery state
This device and method use the complex impedance of a rechargeable battery to detect the state of the rechargeable battery. A computer determines the slope of the complex impedance at least two different frequencies in a diffusion region of the rechargeable battery when a straight-line approximation has been made, and compares the slope with a threshold value. If the slope is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the computer determines that the battery has a normal capacity balance, and if the slope is less than the threshold value, the computer determines that the battery has an abnormal unbalanced capacity. Furthermore, if the magnitude of an imaginary axis component of the complex impedance in the diffusion region of the rechargeable battery is greater than the threshold battery, the computer determines that the battery has an abnormal capacity balance, and if said magnitude is less than or equal to the threshold value, the computer determines that the battery has a normal capacity balance. |
| US09354273B2 |
Composite wire probe test assembly
An examples includes a substrate, including a conductive trace and a layer disposed on top of the conductive trace, the layer defining at least one cavity extending to the conductive trace and an electrical probe disposed in the cavity, with solder coupling the electrical probe to the conductive trace. The electrical probe can include a high yield strength wire core including a refractory metal and a thin oxidation protection layer concentrically disposed around high yield strength wire core and providing an outside surface of the electrical probe, the thin oxidation protection layer including predominantly one or more materials selected from gold, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, chromium, and combinations thereof, wherein the solder fills the cavity and is coupled to the electrical probe inside the cavity, disposed between the electrical probe and the layer. |
| US09354272B2 |
Automated loading/unloading of devices for burn-in testing
The automatic loading and unloading of devices for burn-in testing is facilitated by loading burn-in boards in a magazine with the stacked boards in the magazine moved into and out of a burn-in oven by means of a trolley. The trolley can include an elevator whereby a plurality of magazines can be stacked in the oven for the simultaneous burn-in testing of devices mounted on the burn-in boards. Each board has rollers on one end which are engagable by pneumatically actuated cam mechanisms for inserting the board into an electrical contact in the oven for burn-in tests. Preferably, the cam mechanisms allow for extraction of a single board for inspection. |
| US09354271B2 |
Multi-node electrical power monitoring, analysis, and related services
The operation of electrical appliances receiving electrical power from an electrical system may be indirectly monitored using monitoring units engaged with outlets on branch circuits of the electrical system. Electrical systems providing power to appliances to be monitored in accordance with the present invention may comprise split phase alternating current systems, tri-phase systems, or any other type of electrical system. Known loads may be applied to calibrate the monitoring system. The monitoring system may measure the power consumption of appliances operating on the electrical system and/or detect possible fault conditions. The application of a known load to each phase of the electrical system for calibration permits different portions of the electrical system to be isolated and, therefor, provides improved accuracy in monitoring power consumption and detection of potential fault conditions. |
| US09354268B2 |
Electrical interconnect status monitoring system
Disclosed are advances in the arts with novel methods and apparatus for detecting faulty connections in an electrical system. Exemplary preferred embodiments include basic, ASIC, AC, DC, and RF monitoring techniques and systems for monitoring signals at one or more device loads and analyzing the monitored signals for determining fault conditions at the device loads and/or at the main transmission lines. The invention preferably provides the capability to test and monitor electrical interconnections without fully activating the host system. |
| US09354265B2 |
Vehicle identification system and method
Exemplary systems and methods are directed to establishing a signature for a device emitting electromagnetic radiation (EMR). The system includes a radio frequency (RF) receiver, a signal processor, and a signature generator. The RF receiver samples detected EMR, generate pulses having characteristics that are a function of the EMR, and select generated pulses in a spectral band having energy above a predetermined threshold. The signal processor establishes a set of correlated pulses, computes a vector space associated with the set of correlated pulses, and compares each pulse in the set of correlated pulses to a basis of the vector space for establishing a device signature, and associates pulses having a threshold percentage of energy within the basis in a database with a device identifier. |
| US09354263B2 |
Measuring device and method for the detection of an approach
A capacitive measuring device for a hand-held device, particularly an electric hand-held device for the detection of an approach to the hand-held device, has a switching device, wherein the ground of the capacitive measuring device is galvanically connectable with an electrically conductive structure of the hand-held device by a switching device, and wherein the capacitive measuring device has a ground electrode structure with at least one ground electrode that can be arranged on the hand-held device, wherein the ground of the capacitive hand-held device is galvanically connectable with the at least one ground electrode by the switching device. |
| US09354261B2 |
Duty cycle detecting circuit for pulse width modulation
A duty cycle detecting circuit for pulse width modulation (PWM). The circuit includes a clock generating circuit, a sampling circuit and a calculation circuit. The clock generating circuit is for generating a clock signal. The sampling circuit receives a PWM signal and the clock signal, samples the PWM signal based on the clock signal, and generates a sampling signal. The calculation circuit is for calculating the duty cycle of the PWM signal based on the sampling signal. |
| US09354260B2 |
Wideband CMOS RMS power detection system
A system includes a first circuit and a second circuit. The first circuit includes a first MOS transistor having a gate and a drain. The first circuit is configured to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal at the gate of the first MOS transistor. The drain of the first MOS transistor is configured to output a first current that is proportional to the square of the input voltage of the RF signal while receiving the RF signal. The second circuit includes a second MOS transistor having a source configured to receive a first current from the first circuit. The second MOS transistor is biased in a triode region and has a channel resistance between the source and a drain. The second circuit is configured to output a voltage proportional to the value of the power of the RF signal received by the first circuit. |
| US09354258B2 |
Current detection device and electricity meter
A device including: a conductor through which a current to be measured flows; multiple coils arranged around the conductor; a first magnetic body provided to face one of end surfaces of each of the multiple coils and configured to magnetically short-circuit the multiple coils; and a second magnetic body provided to face another one of the end surfaces of each of the multiple coils, configured to magnetically short-circuit the multiple coils, and including through-holes through which coil wires from the multiple coils are passed, respectively, the through-holes being provided at positions facing the other end surfaces of the multiple coils, respectively. |
| US09354254B2 |
Test-yield improvement devices for high-density probing techniques and method of implementing the same
A testing apparatus with reduced warping of the probe card and a method of reducing warping of a probe card of a testing apparatus are disclosed. The testing apparatus can include a testing head and a platform opposite the testing head, where the testing head and platform move relative to one another to bring a sample into contact with probing tips of the testing apparatus. The testing head can include a probe card printed circuit board, a stiffener, a discontinuous backer and a plurality of probing tips. The stiffener can be coupled to and reinforcing the probe card. The discontinuous backer can extend from the probe card to the stiffener, and can include at least one unfilled void extending from the stiffener to the probe card. The plurality of probing tips can extend from a distal end of the testing head. |
| US09354252B2 |
Pressure sensing and control for semiconductor wafer probing
A wafer probing system includes a probe card assembly having a plurality of individual probe structures configured make contact with a semiconductor wafer mounted on a motor driven wafer chuck, with each probe structure configured with a pressure sensing unit integrated therewith; and a controller configured to drive the probe card assembly with one or more piezoelectric driver units response to feedback from the pressure sensing units of the individual probe structures. |
| US09354251B2 |
Integrated circuit (IC) test socket using Kelvin bridge
An integrated circuit test socket is adapted to use with Kelvin connectors by creating closely spaced connectors and counter-rotating links that are nested to conserve space. The connectors are shaped to make contact with a chip and communicate force and sense signals to a tester, allowing a measure of the chip's actual resistance. |
| US09354245B2 |
Pipette tip set to be used in dispensing device and method for perforating reagent cartridge film using same
A method which allows easy perforation of a film covering a well of a reagent cartridge which is set to a dispensing device is provided. A pipette tip set to be used in a dispensing device of an automatic analyzer together with a reagent cartridge in which a reagent for biochemical analysis is enclosed, includes: a dispensing pipette tip for dispensing the reagent enclosed in the reagent cartridge; a perforating pipette tip having a leading end surface inclined relative to a central axis thereof; and a rack configured to store the dispensing pipette tip and the perforating pipette tip together. |
| US09354241B2 |
Moesin fragments associated with aplastic anemia
The present application provides compositions and methods useful for detecting and monitoring acquired aplastic anemia. |
| US09354239B2 |
BLID; protein domain for interaction with the Bcl-2 family of proteins
In this invention, a novel protein interaction domain is provided along with several of its variants. This domain is involved in protein-protein interactions with the Bcl-2 family of proteins. It is named BLID (Bcl2 family of proteins Like Interaction Domain). Use of BLID and its variants for modulating cellular activity is presented. BLID, its variants and or anti-BLID antibodies could be useful as a screening tool as well as for discovery of drugs that help fight pathological states like degenerative diseases, cerebral or cardiac ischemic hypoxic disorders, cancer and autoimmunity. |
| US09354238B2 |
Compositions and methods for the detection of antibodies to native human leukocyte antigen
Provided herein are compositions comprising native and denatured human leukocyte antigens (HLA) and methods of making said compositions. Also provided herein are methods and kits for the detection of antibodies to native HLAs. |
| US09354235B2 |
System and process for quantifying potentially mineralizable nitrogen for agricultural crop production
The invention is generally directed to a system and process for fluorometrically quantifying potentially mineralizable nitrogen for agricultural crop production. The soil analysis process measures potentially mineralizable nitrogen and calibrates the application of soil-based nitrogen for site or field specific management of nitrogen fertilizers for crops grown on a wide variety of soil textures including sandy loam, silt loam and clay soils. The spectrofluorometric system and process may be utilized for routine soil testing with a lower sample to sample variability, and the automation of the spectrofluorometric system and process allows for simultaneous determination of potentially mineralizable soil organic nitrogen, ammonium and nitrate. |
| US09354228B2 |
Antibody libraries
The present invention overcomes the inadequacies inherent in the known methods for generating libraries of antibody-encoding polynucleotides by specifically designing the libraries with directed sequence and length diversity. |
| US09354225B2 |
Detection of analytes present in exosomes
The invention provides methods for detection in stored biological samples of PrPsc and other analytes that are present in exosomes. |
| US09354224B2 |
Methods and compositions for the diagnosis of cancer susceptibilities and defective DNA repair mechanisms and treatment thereof
Methods and compositions for the diagnosis of cancer susceptibilities, defective DNA repair mechanisms and treatments thereof are provided. Among sequences provided here, the FANCD2 gene has been identified, and probes and primers are provided for screening patients in genetic-based tests and for diagnosing Fanconi Anemia and cancer. The FANCD2 gene can be targeted in vivo for preparing experimental mouse models for use in screening new therapeutic agents for treating conditions involving defective DNA repair. The FANCD2 polypeptide has been sequenced and has been shown to exist in two isoforms identified as FANCD2-S and the monoubiquinated FANCD-L form. Antibodies including polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies have been prepared that distinguish the two isoforms and have been used in diagnostic tests to determine whether a subject has an intact Fanconi Anemia/BRCA pathway. |
| US09354223B2 |
Alzheimer's disease assay in a living patient
An assay for Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology in a living patient is disclosed wherein an amount of α7nAChR or TLR4 in a FLNA-captured protein complex or α7nAChR in an Aβ-captured protein complex or α7nAChR-FLNA, or TLR4-FLNA and/or α7nAChR-Aβ42 complex present as a protein-protein complex in a sample is compared to the amount in a standard sample from a person free of AD pathology. An amount greater than in the standard sample indicates AD pathology. Also disclosed is an assay predictive of prognosis for treatment with a medicament in which the amount of an above protein or protein complex is compared to an amount in the presence of a medicament that binds to a FLNA pentapeptide and contains at least four pharmacophores of FIGS. 7-12. An amount of protein or protein complex determined in the presence of medicament that is less than the first amount indicates a favorable treatment prognosis. |
| US09354219B1 |
Detecting stannous ions
A method of detecting stannous ions that includes providing a zincon-containing indicator having a color, contacting the indicator with a sample, and detecting any resulting change in the color of the indicator, wherein a change in the color of the indicator from the color to colorless indicates that stannous ions are present in the sample. The method is useful for the analysis of oral care compositions. Also provided is the use of zinc on as an indicator for detecting stannous ions. |
| US09354218B2 |
Apparatus and method for the characterization of respirable aerosols
An apparatus for the characterization of respirable aerosols, including: a burn chamber configured to selectively contain a sample that is selectively heated to generate an aerosol; a heating assembly disposed within the burn chamber adjacent to the sample; and a sampling segment coupled to the burn chamber and configured to collect the aerosol such that it may be analyzed. The apparatus also includes an optional sight window disposed in a wall of the burn chamber such that the sample may be viewed during heating. Optionally, the sample includes one of a Lanthanide, an Actinide, and a Transition metal. |
| US09354216B2 |
Infrared aerial thermography for use in determining plant health
A method and system for monitoring the health of plants in a field. The method and system acquire a thermal image indicative of thermal energy emitted by the plants and process the thermal image to assess variations in the temperatures among the plants. |
| US09354211B2 |
Method of testing a weld between two plastic parts
The invention relates to a method for determining whether two plastics components (1, 2) to be welded to each other in a joint plane are welded to each other after a welding process has been carried out, characterized in that the position of a reference plane is determined from a reference point before the welding process is carried out, then the welding process is carried out, and the position of the joint plane or the thickness of the components (1, 2) welded to each other is determined from the reference point during or after the welding process. |
| US09354201B2 |
Ion mobility spectrometer chamber
A FAIMS ion mobility spectrometer chamber with a high repeatability of dimensions, permitting stable gas flow, mechanical rigidity, excellent thermal conductivity, and high temperature stability of gas flow. The heating resistor, ionizer electrodes, HV detector electrodes and collecting electrodes, and conducting contacts, are applied in the form of layers of precious metals on ceramic plates. The heating resistor is located on the outer surface of the top and bottom ceramic plate in the form of a resistive layer of ruthenium dioxide. On the inner surface of each of the top and bottom ceramic plates, there are gas ionizer electrodes in the form of a layer of radioactive nickel, HV electrodes and collecting electrodes, in the form of layers of gold. The conducting contacts are made of a palladium-silver layer, whereas on the edge surfaces of the ceramic plates there are edge contacts, which are made of silver paste. |
| US09354199B2 |
Unitary biochip providing sample-in to results-out processing and methods of manufacture
A biochip for the integration of all steps in a complex process from the insertion of a sample to the generation of a result, performed without operator intervention includes microfluidic and macrofluidic features that are acted on by instrument subsystems in a series of scripted processing steps. Methods for fabricating these complex biochips of high feature density by injection molding are also provided. |
| US09354197B2 |
Micromachined oxygen sensor and method of making the same
The design and manufacture method of an oxygen concentration sensor made with silicon micromachining (a.k.a. MEMS, Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) process for applications of oxygen measurement with fast response time and low power consumption is disclosed in the present invention. The said silicon oxygen concentration sensor operates with an yttrium stabilized zirconia oxide amperometric cell supported on a membrane made of silicon nitride with a heat isolation cavity underneath or a silicon nitride membrane with silicon plug for mechanical strength enforcement. |
| US09354191B2 |
Oxygen sensor controlling apparatus, oxygen sensor controlling method and computer readable recording medium
An oxygen sensor controlling apparatus includes: a controller configured to obtain a degradation index of a detection element; obtain a sensor output; detect an internal resistance of the detection element by causing a temporary change between electrodes of the detection element; successively obtain a target resistance value corresponding to the internal resistance using a first sensor output that is a value of the sensor output obtained at a time before or after a period when the temporary change occurs and the degradation index; and feedback control energization of the heater so that the internal resistance becomes the target resistance value. |
| US09354190B2 |
Apparatus and method for monitoring and quantifying progression of a structural anomaly in a high temperature environment of a combustion turbine engine
Apparatus and method for monitoring and quantifying progression of a structural anomaly, such as crack, over a surface of a component (12) in a high temperature environment of a combustion turbine engine The apparatus may include an electrically-insulating layer (14) formed at least over a portion of the surface of the component of the combustion turbine engine. At least a first detection leg (16) may be disposed on the electrically-insulating layer The first detection leg may be adapted to operate under a desired sensing modality from a bi-modal sensing scheme, such as may be implemented in one sensing modality by way of monitoring changes of an electrical parameter in an electrical circuit formed by the detection leg The sensing scheme may also be implemented by way of imaging radiance energy emitted by the detection leg. |
| US09354189B2 |
Apparatus for measurement of spinning forces relating to molecules
An apparatus for measuring a characteristic of a sample includes a sample measurement apparatus (1404), which includes a light source (1406) configured to illuminate the sample; and a detector (1412) configured to receive light from the sample. The sample measurement apparatus is sized and dimensioned to fit within a centrifuge receptacle, the centrifuge receptacle (1416) coupled to a spindle configured to rotate the centrifuge receptacle to apply a force to the sample. |
| US09354188B2 |
Particle beam device and method for operating a particle beam device
A particle beam device, in particular an electron beam device, is provided having a beam generator for generating a primary particle beam, an objective lens for focusing the primary particle beam onto an object, and a detector for detecting particles emitted by the object. The objective lens has at least one magnetic unit, with the magnetic unit generating at least one first crossover and at least one second crossover. The first crossover is arranged in the objective lens or in a region between the objective lens and the object. The second crossover is arranged at the object. The device permits the examination of the object using particles which have a low energy, with good imaging properties. A method for operating the particle beam device is also provided. |
| US09354186B2 |
X-ray sensor and signal processing assembly for an X-ray computed tomography machine
An apparatus having an X-ray sensor assembly with X-ray blocking pixels divided by X-ray transmitting gaps with the X-ray blocking pixels casting an X-ray blocking shadow; and a die containing signal processing electronics, with the signal processing electronics positioned substantially entirely within the X-ray blocking shadow. A method for detecting the alignment between the X-ray sensor assembly and the die is disclosed. Also disclosed is an X-ray computed tomography machine having a printed circuit board (“PCB”), a die embedded in the PCB, and a signal source wherein signals are routed to and from the die by traces on at least one of the surfaces of the PCB. |
| US09354184B2 |
Imaging apparatus, X-ray detector, and imaging method
An imaging apparatus includes a sensor including a plurality of pixels arranged in a two-dimensional pattern, a sample-hold unit configured to sample and hold a signal obtained from each pixel, and a reading unit configured to perform scanning in such a way as to perform a plurality of non-destructive reading operations for pixels of one row and as to read pixels of the next row, and to subsequently perform scanning in a row direction and a column direction to read the signal having been sampled and held by the sample-hold unit, an A/D conversion unit configured to perform analog/digital conversion processing on the signal read by the reading unit, an averaging processing unit configured to perform averaging processing on the signal converted by the A/D conversion unit, for each pixel, and a digital binning unit configured to perform binning processing using the signal processed by the averaging processing unit. |
| US09354180B2 |
Quantifying the level of intermacromolecular interactions by using pyrene excimer formation
The present invention relates to methods for determining the level of intermolecular interaction of a polymer based on the fraction of intermolecular interaction (finter) relative to the inter, total molecular interaction, which includes both intermolecular and intramolecular interactions. Further provided herein is a method of identifying a suitable viscosity index improver based on the value of finter. The identified suitable viscosity index improver can be used in a lubricating oil composition for, e.g., a power transmission system. |
| US09354178B2 |
Transmission raman sample analysis
Systems and methods for analyzing samples in containers are provided, where an emitter emits radiation at a first location on the container, with a portion of the radiation passing through the container and into the sample, some of the radiation is reflected within the container, a detector receives a transmission Raman signal including Raman radiation from multiple portions of the sample, and a comparator compares the transmission Raman signal with the radiation emitted by the emitter. |
| US09354175B2 |
Lucigen yellow (LucY), a yellow fluorescent protein
Described herein are isolated polynucleotides that encode a fluorescent protein which is at least 80% sequence identical to a protein selected from the group consisting of SEQ. ID. NOS: 2, 4, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, 38, 42, 46, 50, 54, 58, 62, 66, 70, and 74. Also described are expression constructs containing the polynucleotides, transformed host cells containing the expression constructions, the encoded fluorescent proteins themselves, and methods of using the nucleotides and encoded fluorescent proteins for bioanalytical research. |
| US09354174B2 |
Biosensor using whispering gallery modes in microspheres
A biosensor for detecting the presence of a target analyte is disclosed. The biosensor is formed from microspheroidal particles which have had a binding partner for the target analyte immobilized on their surfaces. The binding partners may be nucleotides; peptides, proteins, enzymes, antibodies and so on. When the analyte binds to its partner, the whispering gallery mode (WGM) profiles of the micro spheroidal particles change such that the profile peaks undergo a red- or blue-shift. The immobilized binding partners may include fluorophores and the like so that they emit fluorescence, phosphorescence, incandescence and the like. These fluorophores may take the form of a nanocrystal or quantum dot. |
| US09354169B2 |
Attachment for placement onto an optical sensor and method of operating an optical sensor
The invention relates to an attachment for placement onto an optical sensor having a housing with an inlet opening for the entry of detection light into the attachment, a test light receiver for receiving light incident at the test light receiver and for a power measurement of the light incident at the test light receiver as test light and having a signal outputting device for outputting an output signal correlated to the test light power. The invention moreover relates to a combination of an optical sensor and such an attachment and to a method for operating an optical sensor which method can be carried out with such an attachment. |
| US09354168B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining a substance using THz radiation
The invention relates to a method for determining a liquid in a closed container using THz radiation, in which a first and a second measurement are carried out, wherein the THz radiation is emitted in the direction of the liquid for measuring properties of the liquid, and a portion of the THz radiation coming from the direction of the liquid is detected. In the proposed method, the closed container contains, in addition to the liquid, a gas, wherein a wall of the container is transmissive for THz radiation and wherein the detected portion of the THz radiation in the first measurement is reflected at a boundary surface between the wall and the gas or a pocket containing the gas, and the second measurement is reflected at a boundary surface between the wall and the liquid. The first measurement thus serves as a reference measurement for capturing disturbing losses in the THz beam path and for determining influences of the wall on a measurement result for the second measurement. The invention further relates to an arrangement suitable for carrying out this method. |
| US09354166B2 |
Time-reversal of variance-encoded light (TROVE)
A method and apparatus for irradiating a scattering medium with increased resolution. The method includes transmitting EM radiation from an Electromagnetic (EM) radiation source to a target inside a scattering medium, wherein the target encodes the EM radiation with a variance structure to form encoded EM radiation; measuring, in a detector, transmitted EM radiation comprising at least a portion of the encoded EM radiation transmitted through and exiting the scattering medium; decoding the transmitted EM radiation, comprising EM fields, in a computer, comprising selecting one or more of the EM fields having the variance structure; and irradiating the scattering medium with time reversed EM radiation from a spatial light modulator (SLM), the time reversed EM radiation generated from time reversing the EM fields having the variance structure, thereby forming a focus of the time reversed EM radiation in the scattering medium with the increased resolution. |
| US09354165B2 |
Spectroscopic analysis
A method and analyzer for identifying, verifying or otherwise characterizing a sample involves emitting electromagnetic radiation in at least one beam at a sample. The electromagnetic radiation includes at least two different wavelengths. A sample detector detects affected electromagnetic radiation resulting from the emitted electromagnetic radiation affected by the sample and provides output representing the detected affected radiation. A processor determines sample coefficients from the output and identifies, verifies or otherwise characterizes the sample using the sample coefficients and training coefficients determined from training samples. The coefficients reduce sensitivity to a sample retainer variation and/or are independent of concentration. |
| US09354157B2 |
Apparatus and method for assessing subgrade corrosion
An apparatus and method for assessing subgrade corrosion is disclosed. The apparatus is configured to assess soil corrosivity and subgrade corrosion of a structure without disturbing the site where the structure resides and includes a probe having a plurality of electrodes and sensors configured to conduct environmental and corrosion measurements at the site, and a controller having a potentiostat contained therein to determine a corrosion rate at the site, wherein the corrosion rate provides an indicator of the amount of corrosion of the structure over time. |
| US09354153B2 |
Hand-held trace particle sampling system and method of operating the same
A particle impact device for a hand-held trace particle detection system includes an intake manifold that includes a first conduit defining an intake port. The intake port defines a first transport area. The intake manifold also includes a second conduit coupled to the first conduit. The second conduit defines a discharge port that defines a second transport area. The first transport area is greater than the second transport area. The particle impact device also includes a combined deposition and deflection apparatus positioned downstream of the discharge port. The combined deposition and deflection apparatus defines a deposition and deflection surface positioned a predetermined distance from the discharge port. The deposition and deflection surface is configured to deflect a fluid stream and collect at least a portion of particles entrained in the fluid stream. |
| US09354149B2 |
Test method, test rigs and control system
A method for load relieving a test object, wherein a load is applied by a multiplicity of hydraulic devices positioned side by side each introducing a partial load into the test object such that the test object has a minimum deflection in an area close to its fixation and a maximum deflection in an area far away from the fixation, wherein the load is reduced sequentially from the maximum deflection to the minimum deflection. A test rig is provided that enables an autonomous and non-synchronical load relief of a test object based on pressure difference. A test rig is provided that enables an autonomous and non-synchronical load relief of a test object based on a delay time and a control system for such test rigs. |
| US09354148B2 |
Magnetic particles based separation and assaying method
A magnetic particle based separation and assaying method uses at least two sets of magnetic particles placed in solution within a container and characterized respectively by a coercive field e1 and e2, wherein e1 is greater than e2. The first magnetic particles with a larger coercive field e1 will be used as carrier to handle the second affinity magnetic particles having a lower coercive field e2. A magnetic particles handling method includes the step of applying an external magnetic field having a polarity and amplitude that varies with time to cause the said carrier magnetic particles to be in relative motion within the container driving thereby the affinity particles to form an homogenous suspension of particles in perpetual relative movement with the respect to the liquid. |
| US09354147B2 |
Automated system and method of processing biological specimens
An apparatus including at least one of a stainer module and a coverslipper module; an imaging module; a storage module; an automated transport module for transporting at least one slide between at least one of the stainer module and the coverslipper module, the imaging module and the storage module; and a controller. A method including processing at least one slide; determining whether an imaging module is available for imaging of a biological specimen on the at least one slide; transporting the at least one slide to the imaging module using an automated transport module; and transporting the at least one slide to a storage module using the automated transport module when it is determined that the imaging module is not available. A system including a processing module for processing at least one slide including a biological specimen thereon. A machine readable medium. |
| US09354144B2 |
Customized quality controls for analytical assays
Solid beads each containing a selected quantity of analyte are combined and a liquid base matrix that contains attributes of a biological fluid that is to be assayed, together constitute a kit from which a laboratory technician can, at the point of use, prepare a liquid control for a particular analyte, and preferably a series of such controls at different levels of the same analyte customized for a particular assay. |
| US09354142B2 |
Gas sensor
Disclosed is a gas sensor including a metal shell, a ceramic holder placed in an axial inner hole of the metal shell and a sensor element inserted through an insertion hole of the ceramic holder. The ceramic holder has a recessed hole recessed toward the rear from a front-facing surface of the ceramic holder. The sensor element has, at a front end part thereof, a detection portion covered with a porous protection layer such that a rear end part of the protection layer is accommodated in the recessed hole with a space left therebetween. Further, the ceramic holder has a front circumferential edge defined between an inner circumferential surface of the recessed hole and the front-facing surface of the ceramic holder such that the whole of the front circumferential edge is located radially inside of a radially innermost position of the axial hole. |
| US09354138B2 |
Fixture for test circuit board reliability testing
A fixture for securing at least one test printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) including a PCB having semiconductor devices mounted thereon during vibration or mechanical shock testing. A top plate includes top features including a continuous top outer ring, at least one inner top aperture within the top outer ring, and a plurality of outer top apertures positioned beyond the top outer ring including a top probe access aperture and a threaded aperture. A bottom plate includes bottom features including a bottom continuous outer ring, at least one inner bottom aperture, and plurality of outer bottom apertures including a bottom probe access aperture and table mounting aperture. The threaded apertures accept a fastener that clamps the top plate to the bottom plate for the outer rings to secure a full periphery of the PCB between the top plate and bottom plate. |
| US09354136B1 |
Method for determination of multiple shrapnel hits on a ballistic target threat
A method and system for determination of multiple shrapnel hits on a gridless target surface utilizes multiple radio frequency or acoustic emission transducers on the target surface to detect energy waves created by the impact of shrapnel on the surface that occur at the point of initial contact and after the initial impact. Data regarding the detection, timing, and location of multiple impact events is acquired and transmitted to a remote processing location where the data is processed to determine the timing and location of all the shrapnel hits and derive final lethality information. |
| US09354135B2 |
Oil leak detection device
The present invention relates to an oil leak detection device. In an aspect, the oil leak detection device includes a base film layer 200 configured in a tape form, a pair of polymer lines 220, 230 formed on a top surface of the base film layer in parallel in a length direction, a pair of conductive lines 210, 240 formed on the top surface of the base film layer in parallel to the pair of polymer lines in the length direction, and an upper protection film layer 300 attached to the top surface of the base film layer and configured to have a plurality of sensing holes 310 formed at specific intervals in the length direction at locations through which only one of the pair of polymer lines is exposed. |
| US09354131B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring torque transmitted by driven wheel of a cycle or the like vehicle
There is provided an apparatus and method for measuring and monitoring the torque exerted by a cyclist during pedaling of a human-powered vehicle, as for example a bicycle, including an electromagnetic emitter which is adapted to be fixed securely to a rear wheel hub, for generating and directing a beam of electromagnetic radiation towards a rim of the wheel, and a detector mounted on the wheel for detecting the movement of the beam when torque is applied to the wheel, the movement being indicative of an angular displacement of the hub with respect to the rim and directly proportional to the torque. Either alone or using optical elements, the beam is directed to travel at least a distance between the emitter and the rim before detection. The measurement can be used to provide a power output. |
| US09354128B2 |
Resonator element, resonator, oscillator, electronic apparatus, sensor, and mobile object
A resonator element satisfies, when a shortest distance between a first end portion and a second end portion of a base is Wb [m], an effective width of the base in a Y axis direction is We [m], and a Q value of the resonator element is Q, the following expressions (A) and (B). Q={(ρ·Cp)/(c·α2·Θ)}×[{1+(2·ρ·Cp·We2·f/(π·k))2}/(2·ρ·Cp·We2·f/(π·k))] (A) 0.81≦Wb/We≦1.70 (B) |
| US09354122B2 |
Zero-heat-flux, deep tissue temperature measurement system
A zero-heat-flux, deep tissue temperature measurement system measures internal body temperature by way of a probe having a heater and thermal sensors arranged in a zero-heat-flux construction. The measurement system includes control mechanization that determines heater and skin temperatures based upon data obtained from the probe and uses those temperatures to calculate a deep tissue temperature. The measurement system includes a signal interface cable having a connector where a probe can be releasably connected to the system. The cable and attached connector are a removable and replaceable part of the system, separate from the probe. The measurement system provides an output signal imitating a standard input signal configuration used by other equipment. |
| US09354121B2 |
Corrosion resistant thermowells with thin wall tips
A corrosion resistant thermowells with thin wall tips for use in unusually difficult industrial applications such as pharmaceutical and chemical process plants and semiconductor manufacturing facilities. These facilities have process environments that may include at least one of the following: highly corrosive fluids, difficult mechanical conditions such as rapid or turbulent fluid flows, and/or reasonably high process temperatures and/or pressures. The corrosion resistant thermowells provide isolation between a temperature sensor and a fluid to be measured. |
| US09354118B2 |
Multiple wavelength ellipsometer system and related method
A multiple wavelength ellipsometer system for use in thin film characterization is disclosed. The light source for the system may include sequentially scanned multiple light emitting diodes or laser diodes. The polarization state detector may comprise no moving parts, and utilizes economical uncoated glass plates as beam splitters. The system compensates for potential measurement errors induced by misalignment of the input beam angle to the polarization state detector via a paired arrangement of the beam splitters. To provide improved accuracy in the analysis of data acquired by the system, methods herein actively compensate for the relatively large bandwidth of a preferable light emitting diode source. |
| US09354115B2 |
Methods and apparatus for coaxial imaging of multiple wavelengths
A hyperspectral/multispectral imager comprising a housing is provided. At least one light source is attached to the housing. An objective lens, in an optical communication path comprising originating and terminating ends, is further attached to the housing and causes light to (i) be backscattered by the tissue of a subject at the originating end and then (ii) pass through the objective lens to a beam steering element at the terminating end of the communication path inside the housing. The beam steering element has a plurality of operating modes each of which causes the element to be in optical communication with a different optical detector in a plurality of optical detectors offset from the optical communication path. Each respective detector filter in a plurality of detector filters covers a corresponding optical detector in the plurality of optical detectors thereby filtering light received by the corresponding detector from the beam steering element. |
| US09354114B2 |
Spectrophotometer including photodiode array
A spectrophotometer in which a normal plane to a diffraction grating is inclined with respect to an optical axis of an incident light passing through a slit, the normal plane to the diffraction grating passing through an intersection point between the optical axis of the incident light i and a grating surface of the diffraction grating. The diffraction grating and a photodiode array PDA are placed such that the photodiode array PDA is parallel to the normal plane to the diffraction grating and that a normal plane to the photodiode array PDA includes a line that is symmetrical to the optical axis of the incident light i about the normal plane to the diffraction grating. |
| US09354109B2 |
Weighing apparatus that correlates environmental fluctuations with weight results
To provide a weighing apparatus by which it is possible for a user himself/herself to determine poor performance of the apparatus is a factor attributable to an installation environment, and the weighing accuracy is improved. Respective temporal fluctuations in weighed data detected from a load measuring mechanism 2 and environmental measurement data detected in an environmental measurement means 10 are recorded in a correlative manner in an arithmetic processing unit 32, and the temporal fluctuations are visually recognizable via a display unit 31. Thereby, the correlation between the environmental variations and the weighed data is visually disclosed, which makes it possible for a user to easily recognize that poor performance of the apparatus is attributable to the environmental variations, that increases the reliability of the weighing apparatus. Further, the fundamental performance (accuracy) presented by the apparatus is also assured by allowing the user himself/herself to improve the surrounding environment. |
| US09354107B2 |
Item registration apparatus and measuring device
The present invention provides an item registration apparatus and a measuring device cooperating with a mobile terminal to allow smooth registration of sold-by-weight items being purchased by a customer. The item registration apparatus comprises: a measuring device having a weighing tray on which an item is put; and a mobile terminal which can be connected to the measuring device via communication channel (access point or the like). When the item is put on said weighing tray of the measuring device and the measurement of the item is thus completed, the measuring device transmits transaction information of the measured item to the mobile terminal via the communication channel so that the transaction information is stored. This eliminates printing of code information on a label issued from the measuring device and operation of scanning the printed code information by using the mobile terminal. |
| US09354101B2 |
Device for providing a gas composition and temperature compensated acoustic measurement of a liquid level
The present device provides for a gas composition and temperature compensated acoustic measurement of the level of a liquid in a tank. The device comprises a transmitter, a receiver, a processing circuitry, a waveguide for guiding acoustic signals from the transmitter to the liquid level surface and for guiding reflections of the acoustic signals back to the receiver. The waveguide comprises a first end connected to the transmitter, a second end adapted to extend into the liquid, at least one inlet for introducing gas originating from the liquid in the tank into the waveguide, and an outlet for discharging gas out from the waveguide into the tank. The outlet is arranged closer to the first end than at least one of said at least one inlet. |
| US09354099B2 |
Aircraft fuel level measurement apparatus and method
A fuel level probe has a series of stacked, annular capacitors, the capacitance of which changes with the dielectric constant of the fluid in which they are immersed. A multiplexer provides sequential measurement of each capacitor to determine a step change in capacitance and hence fluid levels based on the time at which the capacitance changes. |
| US09354094B2 |
Apparatus and method for noninvasive particle detection using doppler spectroscopy
An apparatus and method for noninvasively detecting the presence of solid particulate matter suspended in a fluid flowing through a pipe or an oil and gas wellbore are described. Fluid flowing through a conduit containing the particulate solids is exposed to a fixed frequency (>1 MHz) of ultrasonic vibrations from a transducer attached to the outside of the pipe. The returning Doppler frequency shifted signal derived from the scattering of sound from the moving solid particles is detected by an adjacent transducer. The transmitted signal and the Doppler signal are combined to provide sensitive particulate detection. The magnitude of the signal and the Doppler frequency shift are used to determine the particle size distribution and the velocity of the particles. Measurement of the phase shift between the applied frequency and the detected Doppler shifted may be used to determine the direction of motion of the particles. |
| US09354092B2 |
In-line pressure-based flow meter
The Application discloses an in-line, high capacity apparatus and method for measuring a flowable component, such as seed, grain or other material. The apparatus and method generally function by measuring the pressure applied to a rounded cap by the flowing material. In certain embodiments, the apparatus and method comprise a housing containing a sensing unit, with the housing further comprising a rounded cap in mechanical communication with a load cell. In certain exemplary embodiments, the apparatus and method also comprise a processor, wherein the sensing unit is in communication with the processor so as to measure the flow rate of material passed through the housing by measuring the pressure of the material on the rounded cap. In certain embodiments, the apparatus and method allow the user to regulate the flow rate. |
| US09354090B2 |
Scanning sensor arrangement for paper machines or other systems
A system includes a frame having multiple separate supports and multiple flexible rails. Each support is configured to be secured in a position apart from another support, and each flexible rail is configured to be coupled to the supports and placed under tension. The system also includes a sensor head configured to be mounted on the rails and to move back and forth along the rails. The sensor head is substantially self-contained and configured to receive operating power over the rails. The frame may further include a tensioned member configured to be coupled to the supports, and the sensor head can be configured to move back and forth using the tensioned member. The sensor head can be self-contained in that the sensor head does not push and pull any wiring assembly during movement along the rails. |
| US09354089B2 |
Encoder
An encoder includes a scale, a detector array that includes a plurality of detectors, and a signal processor configured to process and convert into positional information, an output signal from the detector array. The signal processor includes a first phase acquirer configured to acquire a first phase of a first modulation period from an output signal of the detector array. The encoder further includes a weighting unit configured to weight an output signal from each of a plurality of detectors using a weight in accordance with a position of the detector array. The weight is set so that in a predetermined range that contains a spatial frequency corresponding to the second modulation period in a spatial frequency response of the first phase acquirer, a value weighted by the weighting unit is equal to or smaller than a non-weighted value. |
| US09354086B2 |
Fiber optic measuring apparatus
The invention relates to a fiber optic measuring apparatus and a related method which includes a number of sensors which are integrated in a cable and detect a mechanical load, a temperature and/or corrosive gases, characterized in that the sensors are supplied with light from a source and the sensors form a fiber optic network. |
| US09354085B2 |
Angle detecting device with complex self-calibration function
An angle detecting device with a self-calibration function has sensor heads for reading a scale of a scale disc fixed to a rotating shaft, has first sensor heads and a second sensor head at a position of one of the first sensor heads, in which the first and second sensor heads are calibrated with a first group including L sensor heads and a second group including M sensor heads, respectively arranged with a different equiangular interval, and in which phases of the calibration values obtained from the second group, are shifted by j*P/L(j=1 to L−1), where P is the total number of scale marks, and average values of the calibration values from the second group and the shifted calibration values are obtained, the average values are added to the calibration values from the first group, and the added values are output as calibration values. |
| US09354084B2 |
Off-axis magnetic field angle sensors
Embodiments relate to magnetic field angle sensing systems and methods. In an embodiment, a magnetic field angle sensing system configured to determine a rotational position of a magnetic field source around an axis, comprises N sensor devices arranged in a circle concentric to an axis, wherein N>1 and the sensor devices are spaced apart from one another by about (360/N) degrees along the circle, each sensor device comprising a magnetic field sensing device having a sensitivity plane comprising at least one reference direction of the magnetic field sensing device, wherein the magnetic field sensing device is sensitive to a magnetic field component in the sensitivity plane and configured to provide a signal related to a (co)sine of an angle between the reference direction and the magnetic field in the sensitivity plane; and circuitry coupled to the N sensor devices and configured to provide a signal indicative of a rotational position of a magnetic field source around the axis determined by combining the signals from the magnetic field sensing devices of the N sensor devices. |
| US09354082B2 |
Meter reader allocation system and meter reader allocation method
A server includes: an allocation unit that switches areas responsible for the respective meter readers based on an order for allocating a plurality of meter readers of a meter reader management unit and an order for allocating areas of an area management unit to allocate the switched area to the respective meter readers; and an instructing unit that instructs the allocated meter readers to read the corresponding areas. |
| US09354081B2 |
Battery-operated stationary sensor arrangement with unidirectional data transmission
Embodiments of the present invention provide a battery-operated stationary sensor arrangement with a unidirectional data transmission. The battery-operated stationary sensor arrangement has a sensor, a means for generating data packets and a means for transmitting data packets. The transmitter is implemented to determine sensor data and provide a sensor data packet based on the sensor data, wherein the sensor data has an amount of data of less than 1 kbit. The means for generating data packets is implemented to divide the sensor data packet into at least two data packets, wherein each of the at least two data packets is shorter than the sensor data packet. The means for transmitting data packets is implemented to transmit the data packets with a data rate of less than 50 kbit/s and a time interval via a communication channel. |
| US09354080B2 |
Method and devices for temperature-based determination of gyroscope bias
In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a processor-implemented method of determining a bias for an axis of a gyroscope. The method includes: obtaining a temperature reading; maintaining a plurality of bias estimators for the axis, each bias estimator associated with a temperature and configured to estimate a bias at the associated temperature, the plurality of bias estimators including a number of short term bias estimators for estimating biases for recently obtained temperatures and a number of long term bias estimators for estimating biases for temperatures obtained over a comparatively longer period of time; and determining a bias for the axis of the gyroscope based on the temperature reading and one or more of the bias estimators. |
| US09354076B2 |
Guiding server, guiding method and recording medium recording guiding program
A guiding server according to this application includes an image storing unit, a retrieving unit, and a generating unit. The image storing unit stores a signboard image of a signboard. The retrieving unit retrieves, from the image storing unit, a signboard image of a signboard on a way to a destination based on location information and destination information of a user terminal. The generating unit generates guiding information including the signboard image based on the retrieved signboard image, the location information and the destination information and transmits the guiding information to the user terminal. |
| US09354075B2 |
Vehicle and method of controlling the same
A vehicle and a method of controlling the vehicle using voice guidance is provided. The vehicle includes a body that defines an appearance of the vehicle and a vehicle sensor that is configured to sense various driving-related situations of the vehicle. A driving guide system is then configured to analyze vehicle driving data including vehicle sensing information received form the vehicle sensor and driving-related information and prioritize the vehicle driving data. In addition, the driving guide system is configured to generate driving guide information in a scenario format based on a priority and output the driving guide information by voice guidance. |
| US09354074B2 |
Controlling media output during consecutive navigation interruptions
In one example, a method includes outputting, by a computing device, media, and performing, by the computing device and prior to output of a first navigation instruction from a plurality of navigation instructions, an adjustment to the outputting of the media. In this example, the method also includes determining, based at least in part on a second navigation instruction from the plurality of navigation instructions, that an interruption condition will be satisfied until after output of the second navigation instruction, and responsive to the determining, maintaining the adjustment to the outputting of the media until after output of the second navigation instruction. |
| US09354063B2 |
Systems and methods for providing intensity stabilization for a resonator fiber optic gyroscope
Systems and methods for an intensity stabilized resonator fiber optic gyroscope are provided. In one embodiment, a method for providing optical intensity stabilization system for a resonator fiber optic gyroscope (RFOG) is provided. The method comprises: injecting a phase modulated light beam into a fiber optic ring resonator coil; measuring a DC component of the phase modulated light beam at an output of the fiber optic ring resonator coil; generating a feedback control signal based on the DC component; and attenuating the phase modulated light beam prior to injection into the fiber optic ring resonator coil by controlling a variable optical attenuator with the feedback control signal. |
| US09354062B2 |
Rotation-sensitive semiconductor ring laser device using the nonlinear Sagnac effect
Method and apparatus embody a rotation sensor including one or more ring lasers designed to utilize a nonlinear Sagnac effect, a passive waveguide arrangement, and a photodetector arrangement to receive the outcoupled light and to detect rotation of the sensor; wherein these components are arranged into a monolithically integrated optoelectronic integrated circuit on a single substrate. The method and apparatus can include seeding a stable, rotation -insensitive, strong (driving) wave using a single-frequency edge emitting laser monolithically integrated on the same substrate. |
| US09354056B2 |
Distance measurement apparatus, distance measurement method, and camera
A distance measurement apparatus includes an imaging lens configured to form an image of an object on an imaging plane, a solid-state image sensor configured to acquire an image based on light flux passing through a plurality of areas different from each other in an exit pupil of the imaging lens, and a calculation unit configured to calculate a distance based on a signal acquired from the solid-state image sensor. The calculation unit includes a processing unit configured to acquire a first signal in a first imaging condition by using the solid-state image sensor, a processing unit configured to acquire a second signal in a second imaging condition different from the first imaging condition by using the solid-state image sensor, and a processing unit configured to calculate a base length and a distance based on the first signal and the second signal. |
| US09354055B2 |
Tilt indicator
According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a device and technique for tilt detection and indication is disclosed. The tilt indicator includes a first member having a reservoir for retaining a granular indicating media therein; and a second member coupled to the first member and having an adhesive portion located corresponding to an indicating area of the first member. Responsive to a tilt event, at least a portion of the indicating media exits the reservoir and travels to the indicating area where the adhesive portion retains at least a portion of the indicating media within the indicating area. A blocking element located within a buffering area located between the reservoir and the indicating area is configured to impede travel of the indicating media from the reservoir toward the indicating area when the tilt indicator is in an activated state. |
| US09354054B2 |
Surveying system
The invention provides a surveying system, which comprises an electronic level and staff devices belonging to either one of two or more groups, wherein the staff device has staffs with bar codes corresponding to groups, to which a staff belongs, and mobile station devices installed on the staffs, wherein the mobile station device has a mobile station display unit to display working data and a mobile station communication unit for performing wireless communication to and from the electronic level, wherein the electronic level has an image pickup unit for acquiring images within a range of working, a control device for extracting staff images from the images, for identifying as to which group the bar code pattern of the extracted staff image belongs and for determining three-dimensional position of the staff based on the staff image, and a main communication unit for transmitting the three-dimensional position obtained to the mobile station device, and wherein the mobile station device displays the relation between the three-dimensional position of the staff as received and the working data on the mobile station display unit. |
| US09354043B2 |
Methods for measuring and modeling the structural health of pressure vessels based on electronic distance measurements
Methods are disclosed wherein the structural health of a civil structure, pressure vessel, or the like is measured by electronic distance measurement (EDM) from a plurality of stable locations to a plurality of cardinal points on the structure in a methodical manner. By measuring the coordinates of the cardinal points, the dynamic and long-term static behavior of the structure provide an indication of the health of the structure. Analyses includes: comparison to a Finite Element Model (FEM); comparison to historical data; and modeling based on linearity, hysteresis, symmetry, creep, damping coefficient, and harmonic analysis. |
| US09354042B2 |
Coordinate measuring system, coordinate measuring method, and probe
A coordinate measuring system includes a probe provided with first to ninth infrared LEDs, and an image capture apparatus and calculation controller detecting the position of the probe. The probe includes a distance obtainer acquiring distance data for a distance from the probe to the image capture apparatus; and an illumination controller controlling an illumination time of the first to ninth infrared LEDs based on the distance represented by the distance data. |
| US09354041B2 |
Coordinate measuring apparatus
Coordinate measuring apparatus includes a probe having an optical system emitting light along a plane at a workpiece, an image capture apparatus having image capture elements arranged on an image capture plane and capturing an image of the workpiece from a position different from that of the predetermined plane, and a controller controlling the emitting optical system. The controller determines whether the image capture elements arranged in an image capture region on the image capture plane detect light incident on the workpiece due to the light from the emitting optical system, turns on the light emitted from the emitting optical system when the image capture elements arranged within the image capture region detect the incident light, and blinks the light emitted from the emitting optical system at a predetermined periodicity when the image capture elements arranged within the image capture region do not detect the incident light. |
| US09354038B2 |
Swept source optical coherence tomography and method for stabilizing phase thereof
In an embodiment, a computer 16, which generates tomographic images based on spectral interference signals detected by a light detector 15 from overlaid reference light emitted by a swept-source type light source 2 of a SS-OCT, split, and then reflected by a fixed reference mirror 8 on one hand and object light reflected by an object to be measured 6 on the other, is caused to function to apply rough correction using a first correction means and then apply detailed correction using a second correction means, to stabilize the phases of the SS-OCT. The phases can be stabilized by eliminating, without adding any expensive, complex hardware, the jitter between the wavelength scanning of a light source of SS-OCT and the timing of collecting the scan data with the light detector as spectral interference signals. |
| US09354029B2 |
Detonation command and control
The detonation of one or more explosive charges and propellant charges by a detonator in response to a fire control signal from a command and control system comprised of a command center and instrumentation center with a communications link therebetween. The fire control signal is selectively provided to the detonator from the instrumentation center if plural detonation control switches at the command center are in a fire authorization status, and instruments, and one or more interlocks, if included, are in a ready for firing status. The instrumentation and command centers are desirably mobile, such as being respective vehicles. |
| US09354028B2 |
Method and GNC system for determination of roll angle
The invention relates to a method for determining the roll angle of a guidable and substantially or partially roll-stable projectile comprising control system, radio-based positioning receiver and sensor for measuring roll angular velocity, in which the following steps are included: actuation of the actuators of the projectile by the control system, included in the projectile, for maneuvering of the projectile; estimation of a first signal, the projectile control force, on the basis of the control system included in the projectile; measurement of a second signal, the velocity of the projectile relative to the ground-fixed coordinate system, with the radio-based positioning receiver mounted in the projectile; measurement of a third signal, the rotational velocity, with the sensor for roll angular velocity mounted in the projectile; calculation of a roll angle on the basis of the first, second and third signals, estimated projectile control force, measured projectile velocity, and measured rotational velocity, by summation of the absolute angle change with weighting of an angle evaluation. The invention additionally relates to a GNC system for a guidable projectile comprising control system, radio-based positioning system, and a sensor for measuring roll angular velocity. |
| US09354027B2 |
Fragmenting projectile
Embodiments of a fragmenting projectile are disclosed herein. According to various embodiments, a fragmenting projectile includes a substantially solid core of a material, and two or more petals attached to the core. The two or more petals can be formed from the same material used to form the core and can include a trocar tip. A cavity can be bound by the core and inner surfaces of the plurality of petals. |
| US09354025B1 |
Modified tail fin
A dart tail fin assembly includes a cylindrical dart body with a nose, a tail opposite the nose and an outer surface extending from the nose to the tail. A plurality of tail fins is attached to and spaced around the outer surface of the dart body. Each one of the tail fins includes a trailing edge aligned with the tail of the dart, a leading edge opposite the trailing edge toward the nose of the tail, a length from the trailing edge to the leading edge and a flat portion disposed at leading edge extending perpendicularly outward from the outer surface a first width. Each tail fin is detached from the outer surface of the dart body along a portion of the length extending back from the leading edge. |
| US09354022B2 |
Optical aiming device with recoil dampening means
The present invention relates to an optical aiming device of the type having a light source and a mirror or lens reflecting or projecting an image of a reticle, i.e. a sight, to the eye of a user. The optical aiming device comprises means for attaching the optical aiming device to a weapon, such as a shot gun. The optical aiming device comprises a base part comprising the opticals and at least one attachment member for attaching the base part to the weapon. The base part and at least one attachment member are displaceable with respect to each other. The relative displacement can effectively be used to dampen the recoil force imparted to the base part carrying the sensitive opticals of the optical aiming device, e.g. by at least one force absorbing member. |
| US09354020B1 |
Dual compression spring projectile launcher
A projectile launcher includes a housing including a launching section. The launching section includes a first spring and a second spring, a piston coupled with the first and second springs, and a charger that compresses each of the first and second springs against the piston within the launching section. The projectile launcher further includes hollow barrel that extends to a front end of the projectile launcher, a projectile loading area configured to receive and load a projectile in position with a firing end of the piston and the barrel, and a trigger. Compression of the first and second springs by the charger is released in response to actuation of the trigger, where release of the compression of the first and second springs forces movement of the piston toward the projectile loading area so as to launch a projectile loaded within the projectile loading area through the barrel and from the projectile launcher. |
| US09354017B2 |
Archery bow cam
In at least one embodiment, an archery bow includes a rotatable member comprising a cam track, a capstan and a terminal. A drawstring extends from the first rotatable member. A power cable is attached to the terminal and extends away from the rotatable member. The power cable comprises an elongate straight portion located near the rotatable member, a capstan portion in contact with said capstan and a terminal portion in contact with said terminal. In a brace condition, the power cable wraps around the capstan in a first rotational direction as the power cable is traversed from the elongate straight portion to the terminal portion. When the bow is drawn from the brace condition, the rotatable member rotates in a second rotational direction that is opposite the first rotational direction. |
| US09354016B2 |
Compact compound bow
Embodiments include a compact compound bow. In various embodiments, the compact compound bow includes a first riser plate and a second riser plate. The bow can further include a first limb and a second limb, the first limb and second limb can be coupled to the first riser plate and the second riser plate. The bow can further include a re-locatable handle configured to be coupled to at least one of the first riser plate or the second riser plate in a first position and coupled to at least one of the first riser plate or the second riser plate in a second position. The re-locatable handle can be rotated 180 degrees from the first position to the second position. Other embodiments are also included herein. |
| US09354015B2 |
String guide system for a bow
A string guide for a bow having a reverse draw configuration with a draw string located adjacent a down-range side of the bow in a released configuration. First and second string guides rotate around first and second axes, respectively, as the draw string is displaced from the released configuration to the drawn configuration. A first power cable take-up journal on the first string guide rotates around the first axis to take up a power cable. The first power cable take-up journal includes a width measured along the first axis at least twice a width of the first power cable. The first power cable is biased away from at least the draw string. The first power cable is translated along the first power cable take-up journal as the bow is drawn from the released configuration to the drawn configuration. |
| US09354013B2 |
Motorized weapon gyroscopic stabilizer
A motorized weapon gyroscopic stabilizer which creates a stabilizing effect for single shot, semi-automatic, and fully automatic weapons. The rotating mass that generates the gyroscopic stabilizing effect can be the rotor of the motor. The motor is designed to allow the mass to rotate around the open core of the motorized weapon gyroscopic stabilizer. Because of its open core design the motorized weapon gyroscopic stabilizer allows the fired projectile to pass through it, or be mounted in line with the sighting mechanism allowing the target alignment—line of sight to pass through the motorized weapon gyroscopic stabilizer, or both. |
| US09354011B2 |
Magazine based, firearm safety apparatus for modifying existing firearms employing a digital, close proximity communications system and a low power electro-permanent magnet interlock system
A magazine-based firearm interlock that can be added to a commercial firearm, with a release/locking device on the firing mechanisms enabled by an electro-permanent magnet, control electronics in the removable magazine, and authorized through a wearable authorization device. Modifications are applied to the trigger bar or sear mechanism which enables it to be changed to an unlocked state, which allows a shot to be fired, and to a locked state, which prevents a shot from being fired. A communication system includes a chip set in the firearm magazine that communicates with a FOB carried by the user, which authenticates the user and activates the electro-permanent magnet to enable the firearm to fire. This system is preferably a near field communication system that couples to and transmits across the body of the user. Indicators can be included to indicate the operational state of the interlock and to detect and record discharges. |
| US09354010B1 |
Firearm breathalyzer
A system for locking a firing mechanism of a firearm in response to blood-alcohol content can include a breathalyzer system and a lock system. The breathalyzer system can be configured to connect to a firearm and include an input port for receiving fluid and a processing module for analyzing blood-alcohol content of the fluid. The lock system can be configured to connect to the firearm and be operably connected to the breathalyzer system for receiving a signal from the breathalyzer system so as to disable a firing mechanism of the firearm in response to the blood-alcohol content of the fluid being sensed to be above a threshold. |
| US09354009B1 |
Remote controlled firearm safety locking system
A remote controlled firearm safety system is provided for a “Glock” type handgun having a slide member, moveable over and along a muzzle section. The recoil spring guide assembly of the weapon, installed in the muzzle section, has a flange member with a plurality of socket openings. Each socket opening contains a locking pin which is moveable between a stored position within the socket openings and an extended position. When the locking pins are extended out of the socket openings, they extend partially into the muzzle section. This prevents the slide member from being cocked and the weapon from being fired. The movement of the locking pins is controlled by a signal receiving device within the recoil spring guide assembly. Upon receipt of a remote signal by the receiving device, a motor drive and a mechanical linkage are actuated to move the locking pins out of the socket openings. |
| US09354006B2 |
Dual magazine assembly
An dual magazine assembly that has many novel features desirable by modern military and law enforcement professionals that consists of two magazine adaptors that replace the standard bottom magazine plates of a firearm. These adaptors once mated with identical magazine housings can then be quickly attached to each other in order to shorten the magazine reloading time by rotating the spent primary magazine towards the bottom and inserting the secondary magazine thus doubling the capacity and allowing for faster firing of rounds from the secondary magazine. |
| US09354005B1 |
Reduced friction firearm components
A reduced friction firearm component that is movably mounted within a firearm wherein that is configured to slidably engage an adjacent element with reduced friction. The reduced friction firearm component further includes a body that is cylindrical in shape. The body includes an exterior surface and further includes a first end and a second end. Formed within the exterior surface of the body are a plurality of grooves. The plurality of grooves extend inward along said body from said first end and said second end. Rotatably mounted within said plurality of grooves are a multitude of ball bearings. A fastener is secured proximate the first end of each of said plurality of grooves that is operable to retain the multitude of ball bearings within said plurality of grooves. The ball bearings function to provide the only point of contact intermediate the reduced friction firearm component and an adjacent element. |
| US09354004B2 |
Charging handle strap
A strap engages the T-shaped end of a charging handle of an AR platform rifle to enhance accessibility of that handle. A first ring captures one arm of the T-shaped end and engages the security latch. A second ring captures the other arm of the T-shaped end. A loop or handle attaches to the rings and is pulled by the shooter to charge the rifle. |
| US09354002B2 |
Air cooled condenser apparatus and method
An air cooled condenser (ACC) system is described having a first street having at least one air cooled condenser module and a second street having at least one air cooled condenser module. The system employs a steam inlet conduit provides steam to the first and second streets. The air cooled condenser system has a standard vacuum system for providing suction pressure to the first and second street. The air cooled condenser system also has an auxiliary vacuum system that provides suction pressure to the first and second streets. |
| US09354001B2 |
Process for optimizing a heat exchanger configuration
A heat exchanger core optimization method is provided for a heat exchanger door which resides at an air inlet or outlet side of an electronics rack, and includes an air-to-coolant heat exchanger with a heat exchanger core. The core includes a first coolant channel coupled to a coolant inlet manifold downstream from a second coolant channel, and the first channel has a shorter channel length than the second channel. Further, coolant channels of the core are coupled to provide counter-flow cooling of an airflow passing across the core. The core optimization method determines at least one combination of parameters that optimize for a particular application at least two performance metrics of the heat exchanger. This method includes obtaining performance metrics for boundary condition(s) of possible heat exchanger configurations with different variable parameters to determine a combination of parameters that optimize the performance metrics for the heat exchanger. |
| US09353998B2 |
Header for a heat exchanger
Disclosed herein is a header for a heat exchanger that has an inflow side, an outflow side, a bypass port therebetween, and a pressure-sensitive flapper valve proximal the bypass port. As pressure increases at the inflow side of the header, the flapper valve opens proportionally, and, as pressure decreases at the inflow side, the flapper valve closes proportionally. The flapper valve is preferably included as part of a service cartridge assembly to facilitate easy repair and/or replacement of the flapper valve. In some embodiments of the invention, a differential pressure is measured between the inflow and outflow sides, and activation of the heat exchanger is initiated in response to the differential pressure having exceeded a set point. |
| US09353996B2 |
Pressure difference driven heat spreader
A pressure difference driven heat spreader includes a chamber defined in a main body; a vaporizing section arranged in the chamber and including a plurality of first flow-guiding members spaced from one another to define first flow passages therebetween, the first flow passages each having at least one free end communicating with a free zone; a condensing section arranged in the chamber opposite to the vaporizing section and including a plurality of second flow-guiding members spaced from one another to define second flow passages therebetween; and an interconnecting section arranged between the vaporizing and condensing sections and having first and second communicating holes for communicating the vaporizing section with the condensing section. The condensing section functions as a low-pressure end, so that a pressure gradient is produced in the pressure difference driven heat spreader to drive steam-water circulation therein, and no wick structure is needed for driving the working fluid. |
| US09353995B2 |
Temperature control module for a socket
A temperature control module for a socket is provided with of an upper docking plate and a lower docking plate. The upper docking plate has a recess for accommodating a socket and two temperature-controlling fluid passages. One end of the passages communicates with the recess, and the other end thereof is connected to a temperature-controlling fluid source. The lower docking plate is disposed under the upper docking plate and covers the recess. A fluid chamber is formed of the recess of the docking plate, the lower docking plate and the socket. The temperature-controlling fluid source outputs a temperature-controlling fluid to the fluid chamber via the temperature-controlling fluid passages for maintaining the socket at a specific temperature. |
| US09353994B1 |
Air pollution control system and method
A system for large-scale, distributed remediation of particulate air pollution using cooling towers is described herein. The system consists of a generator section which captures, redirects, and accelerates exhaust air from a cooling tower, a venturi inlet and nozzle, and at least one air scrubber stage. |
| US09353993B2 |
Condensate trap heater for condensing gas furnace
A heating mat for a condensate trap can include resistive traces which heat the mat. The mat can be adhered to the condensate trap, for example using pressure sensitive adhesive. A control thermostat monitors an ambient temperature and/or a temperature within the condensate trap. If a temperature is at or above a setpoint, the controller thermostat disables power to the resistive traces. If a temperature is below at or below a setpoint, the controller thermostat enables power to the resistive traces to heat the condensate trap and the condensate within the condensate trap. In an embodiment, the heating mat can operate at a voltage supplied by the furnace or from a power source external to the furnace. |
| US09353992B2 |
Method for drying clothes in a household dryer
A method for drying clothes in a household dryer having a drying chamber, a temperature sensor for monitoring temperature an air exhaust temperature from the chamber, and a control system for maintaining a temperature in the drying chamber close to a set point temperature by selecting the set point temperature based on the air exhaust temperature. |
| US09353990B2 |
Refrigerator including a terminal, and method for controlling same
The present invention relates to a refrigerator including a terminal and to a method for controlling same, and particularly, to a refrigerator including a terminal and to a method for controlling same which can visually provide necessary information to a user. To achieve this aim, the present invention provides a refrigerator including a terminal, comprising: a display module provided on the refrigerator; a communication unit communicating with the outside; and a control unit performing control to display various information on the display module. |
| US09353985B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator includes a door rotatably coupled to the body to open and close the body. The refrigerator includes a front side panel comprising a through-hole, a handle coupled to the front side panel to open and close the door, a handle fixing unit coupled to the front side panel while passing through the through-hole, to fix the handle to the door. The refrigerator also includes a reinforcing unit including a coupling hole to which the handle fixing unit is coupled The reinforcing unit is fixed to a rear surface of the front side panel to reinforce the handle fixing unit. The refrigerator also includes a guide part protruding from the rear surface of the front side panel to guide a position of the reinforcing unit such that the coupling hole matches the through-hole. The reinforcing unit is provided with a guide groove into which the guide part is inserted. |
| US09353983B2 |
Refrigerator appliance with variable temperature compartment
Refrigerator appliances are provided. A refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet defining a fresh food chamber, and a door rotatably hinged to the cabinet for accessing the fresh food chamber, the door including an inner surface and an outer surface. The refrigerator appliance further includes a compartment defined in the inner surface of the door, the compartment defining an interior chamber and including a compartment door providing access to the interior chamber. The compartment is selectively operable at a first temperature below approximately 32 degrees Fahrenheit and a second temperature above approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| US09353982B2 |
Portable food and beverage storage and dispensing cooler
A portable food and beverage storage and dispensing cooler is designed to keep liquids and dry items cool and separated. Liquids and beverage containers such as cans and bottles are stored within an insulated tubular body. Beverage containers may be placed into a plurality of beverage-storage units that may be mounted into a plurality of beverage slots on the insulated tubular body. An annular divider is positioned within the insulated tubular body to form a central compartment for liquids as well as a ring-like compartment for ice. The ice is positioned in a manner to cool liquids and items within both the central compartment and the ring-like compartment. An at least one insulated lid is able to cover the contents within the insulated tubular body. A pull handle, a left wheel, and a right wheel allow the cooler to be pulled along a surface for transportation. |
| US09353978B2 |
Adsorber and adsorption heat pump
An adsorber includes: two or more adsorbents with different coolant vapor-pressure conditions and different coolant temperature conditions corresponding to a lower limit value for a coolant adsorption amount and an upper limit value for the coolant adsorption amount; a container that contains at least one of the adsorbents and in which a coolant is sealable; and a channel pipe that extends through the container, is thermally in contact with the two or more adsorbents, and functions as a channel. |
| US09353976B2 |
Refrigerating apparatus
An object of the present invention is to keep an appropriate amount of a refrigerant to be circulated through a refrigerant circuit and prevent an overload operation of compression means due to high pressure abnormality in a refrigerating apparatus which obtains a supercritical pressure on a high pressure side. The refrigerating apparatus which obtains the supercritical pressure on the high pressure side comprises a refrigerant amount regulation tank connected to the refrigerant circuit on the high pressure side via a communicating circuit; a communicating circuit which connects the upper part of this tank to a medium pressure region of the refrigerant circuit; a communicating circuit which connects the lower part of the tank to the medium pressure region of the refrigerant circuit; an electromotive expansion valve of the communicating circuit; an electromagnetic valve of the communicating circuit; an electromagnetic valve of the communicating circuit; and control means for controlling these valves to collect a refrigerant circulated through the refrigerant circuit in the tank and discharging the refrigerant to the refrigerant circuit. |
| US09353972B2 |
Solar collection system and method
An apparatus, system, and method of collecting solar energy having a variable position for optimizing sunlight collection and for use in a heating and/or cooling system. The system includes a solar collector apparatus, a collector support frame assembly, a sun position tracking apparatus, a fluid transfer pump, a fluid storage tank, an insulated pipe for connecting the fluid pump to the storage tank and the solar collector, a differential temperature controller, and a safety override relay controller. |
| US09353970B2 |
Drive with integrated inclination sensor
A drive can include a positional sensor within an outer housing of the drive so as to provide an output indicative of a position of the drive. The positional sensor can be an inclinometer. The inclinometer can be used for feedback control of an inclination of the drive. The drive can further include control electronics within the same housing, so as to provide feedback control of a motor of the drive. The control electronics can include an input for receiving a requested inclination and can be configured to drive the motor until the inclinometer outputs a signal indicative of the requested angle. |
| US09353967B2 |
Fluid heating apparatus
A fluid heating apparatus for use in water heaters, boilers, cooking applications or the like comprising a body. The fluid heating apparatus also comprises a primary heat exchanger arranged within the body and a secondary heat exchanger arranged adjacent to the primary heat exchanger within the body. The apparatus also comprises a burner arranged within the primary heat exchanger. The primary heat exchanger comprises a plurality of concentric doughnut shaped plates arranged over the burner. A blocking plate is arranged adjacent to one of the concentric plates of the primary heat exchanger. The secondary heat exchanger comprises a plurality of concentric doughnut shaped plates arranged adjacent to the blocking plate on a side opposite of the plates of the primary heat exchanger. The apparatus further comprises a manifold in fluid communication with the plurality of concentric plates and blocking plates of both the secondary heat exchanger and primary heat exchanger. |
| US09353963B2 |
Occupancy-based wireless control of multiple environmental zones with zone controller identification
An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. |
| US09353961B2 |
Insulation for a steam carrying apparatus and method of attachment thereof
A steam dispersion system including insulation is disclosed. The steam dispersion system may include a steam dispersion tube with at least one opening defined on an outer surface of the steam dispersion tube and a hollow interior. The insulation covers at least a portion of the steam dispersion tube, the insulation defining an opening aligned with the opening of the steam dispersion tube, wherein the insulation meets 25/50 flame/smoke indexes for UL723/ASTM E-84 and has a thermal conductivity less than about 0.35 Watts/m-K (2.4 in-hr/ft^2 deg F.). A nozzle defining a throughhole may be placed within the opening of the steam dispersion tube, the throughhole being in fluid communication with the hollow interior of the steam dispersion tube to provide a steam exit. |
| US09353960B2 |
Humidifier
The present invention relates to a humidifier. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a humidifier comprising: a main body including a water reservoir for storing water; an upper body disposed above the water reservoir for covering the water reservoir; and a vibration unit including a vibrator for atomizing the water in the water reservoir, wherein the upper body includes a first hinge part for hinge-coupling with the main body and a second hinge part for hinge-coupling with the vibration unit, the upper body is capable of being lifted from the main body using the first hinge part as a shaft, the vibration unit is capable of rotatably moving in the water using the second hinge part as a shaft, and the vibration unit further includes a vibrator receiving unit for the vibrator. |
| US09353955B1 |
Hot water recovery apparatus
The concepts relate to reducing energy loss associated with hot water systems. One example includes a water flow management device that includes inner and outer nested elastomeric bladders. The inner and outer nested elastomeric bladders define a tortuous fluid pathway into the inner bladder, between the inner and outer bladders, and out of the outer bladder. |
| US09353951B2 |
Burner, combustor and remodeling method for burner
A combustor with a burner maintains combustion stability. The burner includes an air hole member 31 with a plurality of air holes 34, 35 provided at an upstream side of the combustion gases generated by a combustion chamber 1. A first fueling nozzle 33 jets fuel in a direction crossing a central axis of the burner towards at least two of air holes 35. A plurality of second fueling nozzles 32, one for each of the remaining air holes 34, are provided to jet the fuel in a direction routed along the burner axis towards the corresponding air hole 34. A fuel header 30 distributes the fuel to the first fueling nozzle 33 and each of the second fueling nozzles 32. A fuel header storage unit 70 shrouds the fuel header 30, fueling nozzles 32, 33, and has an air inflow hole 71. |
| US09353950B2 |
System for reducing combustion dynamics and NOx in a combustor
A combustor includes an end cap that extends radially across at least a portion of the combustor. The end cap includes an upstream surface axially separated from a downstream surface. A plurality of tubes extend from the upstream surface through the downstream surface of the end cap to provide fluid communication through the end cap. Each tube in a first set of the plurality of tubes has an inlet proximate to the upstream surface and an outlet downstream from the downstream surface. Each outlet has a first portion that extends a different axial distance from the inlet than a second portion. |
| US09353949B2 |
Device for improved air and fuel distribution to a combustor
A flow conditioning device (30, 50, 70, 100, 150) for a can annular gas turbine engine, including a plurality of flow elements (32, 34, 52, 54, 72, 74, 102) disposed in a compressed air flow path (42, 60, 80, 114, 122) leading to a combustor (12), configured such that relative adjustment of at least one flow directing element (32, 52, 72, 110) with respect to an adjacent flow directing element (34, 54, 74, 112, 120) during operation of the gas turbine engine is effective to adjust a level of choking of the compressed air flow path (42, 60, 80, 114, 122). |
| US09353948B2 |
Gas turbine combustor including a coating having reflective characteristics for radiation heat and method for improved combustor temperature uniformity
A combustor and a method for reducing a temperature gradient of a combustor component are provided. The combustor includes a coating applied to at least a portion thereof with the coating serving to alter the emissivity of the at least a portion to which it is applied. The method includes applying a coating on at least one of a combustor liner and a flow sleeve, wherein the coating alters the emissivity exhibited where applied. |
| US09353944B1 |
Combustion of high solids liquid
A system for the combustion of high solids liquid to produce steam for the production of ethanol is disclosed. The system comprises a method for combusting high solids liquid. The method comprises supplying a stream of high solids liquid to a furnace; atomizing the stream of high solids liquid into the furnace; and distributing biomass fuel into the furnace. The stream of high solids liquid are combusted with the biomass fuel in the furnace. |
| US09353942B2 |
Burner for household or recreational use
A burner for household or recreational use, such as for generating a decorative play of flames, emission of heat or use in, for instance, a hot plate or fireplace, in a generally safe, clean and efficient manner. The burner is equipped with a fuel stock holder (2, 22) provided with a fuel receiving body (5, 25, 45) from a form-retaining, isotropic, heat-resistant and porous material for retaining liquid fuel by means of absorption. The fuel receiving body (5, 25, 45) is located in a casing (9, 29, 49) with at least one flame opening (10, 30, 50) for combusting fuel at the surface of the fuel receiving body and which is connected to the fuel receiving body (5, 25, 45) without substantial residual spaces remaining between the casing (9, 29, 49) and the fuel receiving body (5, 24, 45), or the fuel receiving body is arranged freely without casing. |
| US09353937B2 |
Gas cooled LED lamp
In one embodiment, a lamp comprises an optically transmissive enclosure. An LED array is disposed in the optically transmissive enclosure operable to emit light when energized through an electrical connection. A gas is contained in the enclosure to provide thermal coupling to the LED array. The gas may include oxygen. |
| US09353936B2 |
Locking pin for a T-rail mount for a portable light and movable, lockable handles for the same
A locking pin for a mount for receiving a T-rail includes a bolt for engagement with the mount, a plurality of facets defined on the bolt, and a locking leaf spring having a first end fixed to the mount and a second distal end with a planar lip. A movable and lockable handle for a portable light includes a hand grip, a pair of arms and a pair of hinges. A locking flange in the hinge securely captures the arm in a folded configuration. The arm is moved out from behind the locking flange and rotated to a fully deployed configuration and held by a detent flange. The handle is attached to the mount provided with the locking pin. |
| US09353935B2 |
Rotatable lighting device
A lighting device includes an outer body having a base, a medial portion, and an upper portion. The lighting device may also include a light source carrying assembly to carry a light source and a lens. The light source carrying assembly may include an assembly base, an assembly top that pivotally engages a portion of the assembly base, and a heat sink. The light source carrying assembly may be configured to rotate about a first rotational axis and to pivot about a second rotational axis. |
| US09353934B1 |
Structure lighting assembly
A light holding assembly facilitates installation and removal of decorative light strings on a structure. The assembly includes a panel having an upper section and a lower section. The lower section is selectively separable from the upper section. A plurality of apertures extends through the upper section of the panel wherein the upper section of the panel is configured for being coupled to a structure by insertion of connectors through the apertures. A plurality of straps is coupled to the lower section of the panel. The straps are selectively formed into loops wherein the lower section of the panel is configured for supporting a string of lights extending through the loops. |
| US09353932B2 |
LED light bulb with structural support
A light emitting diode (LED) light bulb includes a base and at least one support structure coupled to the base. The support structure is formed into a shape that defines contours for a luminous surface and an open volume. The LED light bulb includes least one LED assembly comprising two or more electrically connected LEDs. The LED assembly is attached to and in physical contact with the support structure along a length of the support structure to form the luminous surface. The support structure has openings between neighboring segments of the LED assembly. |
| US09353927B2 |
Lighting apparatus
A lighting apparatus according to an embodiment includes an optical unit and a body. The Optical unit includes a light emitting module that has a light emitting element, a reflector that controls distribution of light from the light emitting module, and a unit supporting member that supports the light emitting module and the reflector. A plurality of optical units are mounted to the apparatus body such that each optical unit is detachable. And the body includes an irradiating portion that has an opening through which the optical units irradiate light. |
| US09353924B2 |
Assembly systems for modular light fixtures
A light fixture is disclosed. The light fixture can include a first light module and a second light module, each having at least one coupling feature, a power source, and at least one electrical receiver providing access to the power source. The light fixture can also include at least one first bracket having a first portion and a second portion, where the first portion mechanically couples to the at least one first coupling feature of the first light module, and where the second portion mechanically couples to the at least one second coupling feature of the second light module. |
| US09353921B2 |
Luminaire combining ambient light and task light
A luminaire is disclosed that allows a transfer from ambient light to task light through physical manipulation by the user. The luminaire comprises OLED light sources for generating an ambient light effect and LED light sources for generating a task light effect. |
| US09353917B2 |
High efficiency lighting device including one or more solid state light emitters, and method of lighting
A lighting device comprising first and second groups of solid state light emitters, that emit light having approximate dominant wavelength (in nm) of 441-448 (or 442-450, 444-455, 444-446, 442-445 or 444-452) and 555 nm to 585 nm, respectively. If the first and second groups are illuminated, a mixture of light would, in the absence of any additional light, have a color point within one or more of first, second, third, fourth and fifth areas on the 1931 CIE Chromaticity Diagram. In some embodiment, the lighting device further comprises a third group that emits light having approximate dominant wavelength (in nm) of 600-640 (or 605-610, 605-607, 600-606, 602-606 or 615-620). Also, methods of lighting. |
| US09353916B2 |
Elongated LED luminaire and associated methods
A luminaire comprising a lamp comprising an outer structure, a light source configured to emit a source light and carried by the outer structure, a middle structure connected to the outer structure, and a bi-pin base connected to the middle structure. The lamp may further comprise a light guide having an inner surface and an outer surface and a heat dissipating frame having a contact surface in thermal communication with the outer surface of the light guide and comprising a plurality of heat sink rods positioned to abut each other to define the contact surface of the heat dissipating frame. The light source may be configured to emit the source light so as to be incident upon the inner surface of the light guide. The light guide may be configured to change the source light into a shaped light that illuminates a space proximate to the luminaire. |
| US09353910B2 |
Boss for composite pressure container
A boss (1) for a composite pressure container for fluids, in which the radial thickness of a lip (23) of the boss arranged between the coupling or valve member (5) and an embedded member (2) is especially adapted to the intended pressure inside the container. |
| US09353909B2 |
Symmetrical continuous multidirectional ultra-light ultra-strong structure
A multidimensional structures that is formed of thirty six interconnecting members in such a manner as to form eight (8) tetrahedrons and six (6) octahedrons thereby providing a structure that is both light weight and strong, the interconnecting members variously intersecting at a central point in the middle of the multidimensional structure and at twelve (12) external connecting points. |
| US09353907B1 |
Mounting bracket for outdoor equipment
A mounting bracket includes a main body having a continuous side wall that defines an interior cavity configured to engage a support member therein. The continuous side wall includes at least one aperture configured to accept an engaging mechanism configured to frictionally engage the support member. The mounting bracket includes a substantially horizontal mounting plate attached to the main body. The substantially horizontal mounting plate has a first aperture spaced from the main body wherein the first aperture is configured to accept a retaining mechanism configured to engage a device. |
| US09353903B2 |
Motion simulator
The objective of the present invention is to provide a motion simulator providing, to a link part, a buffering uniting part for absorbing impact during operation so as to prevent shaking of the motion simulator, thereby improving stability. To this end, the motion simulator of the present invention comprises: support members for supporting a chair on which a user sits, a monitor for providing images of a virtual environment according to the operation of the user, and a handle operated by the user for providing the virtual environment; and a plurality of link parts coupled to the lower portions of the support members so as to support the support members while simultaneously moving the same in the vertical direction, wherein at least one link part among the plurality of link parts are provided with buffering uniting parts for the absorption of impact. |
| US09353902B2 |
Propulsion device
A self propelled propulsion device suitable for pushing, pulling or articulating other tools or equipment around bends within a pipe. The device comprises a first part and a second part, the first part being coupled to the second part by articulating means. The device also comprises a hydraulic system and a control unit. The hydraulic system is operable to returnably separate the first and second part of the device from each other. The hydraulic system further comprises a plurality of pipeline engaging means positioned along an exterior surface of the device which are operable by the hydraulic system to be engagable with the interior surface of the pipeline. The control unit is in communication with the hydraulic system to control the movement of the pipeline engaging means and the first and second parts such that the device is moveable within the pipeline. |
| US09353898B2 |
Method tubular element of a fall pipe, fall pipe assembled from such elements, coupling between two such tubular elements and method for assembling the fall pipe
A tubular element of a fall pipe used for the purpose of depositing materials underwater from a fall pipe vessel. The fall pipe element comprises a male and a female coupling part for coupling to another element of the same form. The coupling parts are provided on respectively an outer periphery and inner periphery thereof with an annular flange which is divided in a peripheral direction into segments which leave recesses clear therebetween. For coupling purposes, segments of a male coupling part are placed through recesses of a female coupling part and slid by rotation under segments of the female coupling part. A fall pipe and a method for assembly thereof. |
| US09353897B2 |
Bayonet fastening
A bayonet fastening which can be used to connect two pipeline components, in particular connection elements. The pipeline components which are to be connected respectively comprise a cylindrical receiving part (1) and the second pipeline component comprises an insertion part (2) which can be introduced into the receiving part. A clamping ring (3) is arranged on the outer diameter of the insertion part and the receiving part can be pushed onto said clamping ring. The bayonet fastening can be locked by rotating the receiving part and the insertion part in relation to one another. |
| US09353893B2 |
Pipe section having bonded composite barrier layer
Pipe sections and methods for forming pipe sections are disclosed. A pipe section includes a hollow body formed from a metal material, the hollow body having an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface defining an interior. The pipe section further includes a barrier layer surrounding and bonded to the hollow body, the barrier layer having an inner surface and an outer surface. The barrier layer is formed from a continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic material. Such pipe sections may be lightweight and flexible while exhibiting improved strength characteristics. |
| US09353888B2 |
Polymer bag grouting method for repairing settlement of underground pipelines
A polymer bag grouting method for repairing a settlement of an underground pipeline includes steps of: (1) detecting a settled pipeline section and determining a grouting plan; (2) drilling holes for containing bags; (3) placing the bags into the holes; (4) injecting a polymer material into the bags; (5) uplifting the settled pipeline section; and, (6) filling a cavity and reinforcing a soft soil layer. The polymer material is a non-water reacted two-component polymer material. The method provided by the present invention has advantages of rapidness, small cut, light mass, high tenacity, economy and durability. The method is advanced, highly-efficient, economical and practical and able to rapidly repair the settlement of the pipeline section through uplifting. The method of the present invention is successfully applied to multiple projects of uplifting the underground pipelines, showing great economic and social benefits and a wide development and application prospect. |
| US09353886B2 |
Solenoid valve having air tap structure
A solenoid valve includes a plunger head, an actuating device, a seal sheet and an air tap assembly. The actuating device has a connection member coupled with the plunger head. The seal sheet is disposed on the actuating device. The air tap assembly is secured to the actuating device and has a cavity. The air tap assembly includes a main body, a first and a second tubes. The first tube protrudes from the main body and defines a first through hole. The main body defines a second through hole communicated with the first through hole and the cavity. The second tube defines a third through hole. The main body defines a fourth through hole extended from the third through hole and a fifth through hole extended from the fourth through hole to the cavity. The plunger head is used to seal the second and fifth through holes. |
| US09353879B2 |
Battery watering valve assembly with flash arrester
A float actuated valve assembly for battery electrolyte replenishment is disclosed. A housing engages an opening in a battery cell. An inlet in the housing is connectable to a water source. A valve in the housing controls the water flow to the cell. The valve is connected by a link to a four bar mechanism that is attached to a float. The float is buoyantly supported and rises and falls in response to the electrolyte level within the cell opening and closing the valve to admit or halt the flow of water to the cell. A baffle prevents fouling of the mechanism by splashing electrolyte. A flash arrester is positioned between the valve and the inlet to quench hydrogen-oxygen explosions between cells. The float is adjustable for different sized cells. A side viewable electrolyte level indicator is provided in the housing. Flash arresters for venting gas are also mounted. |
| US09353876B2 |
Boost pressure control system for turbocharged internal combustion engines
A variable boost pressure control system for turbocharged internal engine systems comprising an adjustable charge air vent valve connectable with the charge air input to an internal combustion engine to provide selection and adjustment of the charge air pressure to the internal combustion engine, either at the site of the charge air vent valve or at a location remote from the charge air vent valve and to provide, if desirable, a flow of cool charge air to a turbocharger cooling jacket. |
| US09353875B2 |
Valve insert
An insert is provided for insertion through an opening in the surface of a conduit, the insert comprising an insert body having first and second open ends defining an axis of flow therebetween. The insert further comprises a valve flap connected to the insert body. The valve flap is movable between a closed position in which it creates a closure, thereby preventing flow along said axis, and an open position in which the valve flap allows flow along the axis. The valve flap is arranged so that, when in the open position, it is substantially U-shaped in side cross-section and is oriented with respect to the insert body so that said U-shape arches over the axis of flow. |
| US09353869B2 |
Petal control valve with sealing gasket for separable connection units for flexible hoses
A control valve for connection units for flexible hoses comprises a plurality of petals rotatable between a position of complete opening and a position of complete closing, wherein rotatable petals of different shape and sizes alternate in pairs along the circumference of the connection unit. The petals of smaller size have a substantially triangular shape with straight lateral sides and a rounded end which fluid-tightly abut against corresponding straight lateral, sides and curved parts of the petals of larger size when the valve is closed. |
| US09353866B2 |
Seal assembly with complementary surface deformations
A seal assembly is disclosed which may include a seal ring, a load ring in engagement with the seal ring, and complementary surface deformations in the seal ring and load ring, the complementary surface deformations circumscribing the seal ring and the load ring, the complementary surface deformations being continuous and non-circular. |
| US09353865B2 |
Mechanical face seal
A mechanical face seal and a method of using the mechanical face seal are described. The mechanical face seal includes a plurality of groove sets that are etched into a stationary seal and/or a rotating seal ring. Each of the plurality of groove sets includes feed grooves, collection grooves, distribution grooves, a collector, retention cavities and discharge grooves. The mechanical face seal can be used to reduce the friction that is generated from the stationary seal and the rotating seal ring during operation. Additionally, the groove sets work cooperatively to introduce, circulate and expel lubricant between the seal interface, thereby promoting cooling of the seal. |
| US09353863B2 |
Wrist pin and method of reducing wear between members thereof, connecting rod, piston and methods of constructing same
A wrist pin and method of reducing wear between members thereof, a piston, a connecting rod, and methods of construction thereof are provided. The wrist pin has a first portion extending between opposite ends configured for receipt in piston pin bores and a second portion extending between opposite ends configured for receipt in the pin bores. The second portion is configured for relative movement with the first portion. The piston includes a piston body having axially aligned pin bores, wherein at least one of the pin bores has a feature to prevent relative rotation of a wrist pin member. The connecting rod includes a connecting rod body having small end bore. The small end bore has a contour to allow relative rotation of a first wrist pin member therein and a feature to prevent relative rotation of a second wrist pin member therein. |
| US09353861B2 |
Coupling structure for piston used in fluid-pressure cylinder, and coupling method therefor
A coupling structure for a piston used in a fluid-pressure cylinder. The piston in the fluid-pressure cylinder includes a piston hole that runs through a central part of the piston in an axial direction thereof. One end of a piston rod and a coupling body coupled to the one end are inserted into the piston hole. The coupling body includes: a main part that contacts the one end of the piston rod; and an angled part formed around the main part and inclined at a prescribed angle with respect thereto. When the coupling body is subjected to pressure inside the piston hole, the diameter of the coupling body increases and a pointed edge of the angled part engages with an inner surface of the piston hole such that the coupling body couples the piston and the piston rod. |
| US09353860B2 |
Production of multi-part, joined valve components in hydraulic applications with joint sealing profiles
The invention relates to a valve component, in particular for a piston or a valve, comprising at least one first disk-shaped joining part and at least one second disk-shaped joining part, wherein the first and second joining part each have at least one opening, and wherein once the joining parts have been joined, the opening in the joining parts interacts in such a way that a channel is formed and a fluid medium can flow through the channel. In first and second regions at the joining parts, an at least partially peripheral elevation and/or depression interact with one another in sealing fashion once joined. |
| US09353858B2 |
Abnormality detection device for continuously variable transmission and method of detecting abnormality of the continuously variable transmission
An abnormality detection device for a continuously variable transmission includes: an acquisition module that acquires a control variable for controlling an operation of a forward and reverse switching mechanism that is provided between an engine and a driving wheel to switch between forward rotation and reverse rotation of the driving wheel; and a determination module that determines the control variable for the forward and reverse switching mechanism to be abnormal in the case where a traveling range is selected by the selection unit, a vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed detection unit is higher than or equal to a predetermined speed, and the control variable for the forward and reverse switching mechanism, acquired by the acquisition module has a value that does not allow a driving force of the engine to be transmitted. |
| US09353857B2 |
Vehicle control device
A vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle including a first power transmission mechanism arranged between a drive source and a drive wheel, and a second power transmission mechanism which is arranged in series with the first power transmission mechanism and which changes a speed ratio between an input shaft and an output shaft, includes slip detection means configured to detect whether or not a slip occurs in the first power transmission mechanism, and shift means configured to reduce the slip by shifting the second power transmission mechanism in a case where occurrence of the slip is detected by the slip detection means. |
| US09353856B2 |
Method for adapting shifts in a motor vehicle transmission
A method provides for adapting shifts to be carried out in a transmission of a motor vehicle. The shifts are triggered by a transmission control unit and are is controlled and/or governed by the transmission control unit. An actual value corresponding to an acceleration of the motor vehicle is recorded by measuring instruments and is compared to a corresponding target value. On the basis of a deviation between the actual value and the target value, the carrying out of the subsequent shifts of the transmission control unit is adapted. The actual value corresponding to an acceleration of the motor vehicle is individually recorded for several consecutive shift stages of each shift, whereas the actual value in the individual shift stages is compared to the target value in the individual shift stages of the transmission control unit. On the basis of a deviation in the individual shift stages between the actual value and the target value, the carrying out of the subsequent shifts of the transmission control unit is individually adapted for each shift stage. |
| US09353855B2 |
Method for processing an actuation of an operating element in a motor vehicle
A method is provided for processing an actuation of an operating element in a motor vehicle, particularly of an operating lever, wherein the operating element can be actuated at least by the driver of the motor vehicle. A plurality of sensors are arranged on the operating element, which sensors are at least partially activated when the operating element is actuated. The time sequence of the activation of the sensors is detected when the operating element is actuated, and, based on the time sequence, it is determined whether an undesired actuation is occurring, undesired actuations including unintended actuations and/or actuations by a front-seat passenger. In the event of an undesired actuation, the implementation of one or more actions coupled to the actuation of the operating element in the vehicle is blocked. |
| US09353850B2 |
Device for providing the oil supply of a secondary circuit of a transmission of a hybrid driveline of a motor vehicle, comprising an auxiliary electrically driven oil pump
A device for ensuring the supply of oil to the secondary circuit of a transmission of a hybrid drive-train of a motor vehicle, having an electrically operated auxiliary oil pump, which comprises a bypass valve that is connected between the outlet of the auxiliary oil pump and the secondary circuit of the hybrid circuit of the transmission, such that the valve opens at a predetermined opening pressure, closes at a predetermined closing pressure which is lower than the minimum system pressure, and, at a predetermined pressure between the opening and closing pressures, the valve permits flow a predetermined volume flow into the secondary circuit. |
| US09353849B2 |
Method and arrangement for controlling the lubrication of a gear system
A gear lubrication arrangement comprises a lubrication pump for circulating lubrication fluid. A power source coupled to the lubrication pump drives the lubrication pump, and a controller controls an output power of the lubrication pump. The gear lubrication arrangement comprises a pressure sensor disposed down-stream of the lubrication pump The pressure sensor is configured to measure a pressure of the lubrication fluid and to produce a pressure indication signal representative thereof. The controller is arranged to vary the output power of the lubrication pump at least partly on the basis of the pressure indication signal. |
| US09353847B2 |
Torque vectoring device
A torque vectoring device (4-18) for two half-axles of a vehicle drive axle, provided with a conventional differential (20-27), through which drive torque is supplied from a propulsion motor, is connected on one hand to one of the half-axles (1), on the other hand to the cage (24) of the differential (20-27). An electric motor (15) of the torque vectoring device is connected via a differential transmission in the form of a planetary gearing (10) to said one of the half-axles (1) and the cage (24). The arrangement is such that the electric motor stands still, when the rotational speed of the half-axle (1) and the cage (24) is the same. |
| US09353843B2 |
Automatic transmission
Automatic transmission 1 includes second friction plates 17 connecting a second drum 27 to a second hub 37, a second engagement hydraulic chamber 67, a second centrifugal balance chamber 77, and a second piston 47 engaging and disengaging the second friction plates 17. The second centrifugal balance chamber 77 overlaps the second friction plates 17 in the axial direction in the automatic transmission 1. The automatic transmission 1 further includes a second oil passage 9 for discharging hydraulic oil in the second centrifugal balance chamber 77 to a position not overlapping the second friction plates 17 in the axial direction. |
| US09353829B2 |
Chain bearing, chain pin, and chain
At least one member composing a chain bearing, such as a pin, includes a surface layer composed of vanadium carbonitride (VCN) coating on a surface of a base material of the at least one member. An oxide (VO) film having a predetermined thickness is also formed on a surface of the surface layer such that the oxide film is interposed between the surface layer and another member, such as a pin hole, composing the chain bearing. |
| US09353827B2 |
Toothed belt
Configuring the inside of a tooth portion 15 of a toothed belt 10 with a core rubber layer 14 and the outer periphery of the tooth portion 15 with a tooth rubber layer 12. Also, including short fibers in the core rubber layer 14. The tooth rubber layer 12 is formed by curing a rubber composition containing 10 parts by weight or less high-density polyethylene with 100 parts by weight of matrix rubber. The value of tan δ for the tooth rubber layer 12 at 100-120° C. is maintained at 0.100-0.120. |
| US09353826B2 |
Damper bearing for supporting a chassis component on a motor vehicle body
The invention relates to a damper bearing (10) for supporting a chassis component on a motor vehicle body, including a first bearing element (12) for attachment to the motor vehicle body, a second bearing element (14) for attachment to the chassis component, and a damping element (16) which is active between the first and the second bearing elements (12, 14) and which is made of a shock-absorbing material. The invention is characterized in that a coupling element (18) is arranged between the first and the second bearing elements (12, 14), with the second bearing element (14) interacting via the coupling element with at least one active spring element (20) which is arranged on the coupling element (18) and effective in series with the damping element (16). |
| US09353825B2 |
Vibration absorbing apparatus
A vibration absorbing apparatus is provided which includes a vibration absorbing mechanism equipped with a spring mechanism and an elastic member. The elastic member is made of a non-metallic material and of a cylindrical shape. The elastic member is arranged coaxially with the spring mechanism and has a spring constant in a radial direction thereof which is lower than that in an axial direction thereof. The spring mechanism works to absorb vibration applied thereto in the axial direction thereof. The elastic member works to absorb vibration applied thereto in the radial direction thereof. |
| US09353823B2 |
Device and method for checking the state of charge of a gas spring
A device (1) for checking the state of charge of a gas spring (100), comprises: a supporting structure (2) equipped with connecting means (3) adapted to be reversibly connected to a gas spring (100); a plunger (4) slidably received, at least partly, in the supporting structure and having a first end (4b) adapted to interact, in conditions of use, with a charging valve of a gas spring, the plunger having a second end which has an abutment surface (4d); pushing means (6) operating on the abutment surface (4d) of the plunger (4) to apply a measured thrust on the plunger (4) such as to induce the displacement thereof; a position indicator (5) operatively associated with the plunger (4) and configured to represent the position of the plunger relative to a reference element (7). Also described is a method for checking the state of charge of a gas spring (100). |
| US09353822B2 |
Shock absorber and method for manufacturing shock absorber
A tubular shock absorber including a tubular case protruding from a side of a main body portion of the shock absorber. A piston (5) with a piston rod (6) coupled thereto is inserted in a cylinder sealingly containing oil, and a damping force is generated by controlling a flow of the oil generated by movement of the piston with use of a damping force generation mechanism (25). The damping force generation mechanism is contained in a cylindrical case (26) protruding from a side of an outer tube (3), and the damping force generation mechanism is fixed by threadably attaching a nut member (34) to a male screw portion (50) of the case. An O-ring is disposed between an outer circumferential surface of the case and an inner circumferential surface of the nut member to seal an uncoated male screw portion from the outside. |
| US09353815B1 |
Systems and methods for detecting wear of brake pads
A system can be used to indicate wear of a brake pad. The system can include a brake housing, a brake pad mechanically coupled to the brake housing, and a sensor mechanically coupled to the brake pad. The sensor can determine when the brake pad has been worn to a predetermined location by a rotating portion of a wheel. The system can also include an electronic module electrically coupled to the sensor and mechanically coupled to the brake housing. The electronic module can include a radio frequency antenna configured to wirelessly receive radio frequency energy from an external radio frequency transmitter, and an energy converter electrically coupled to the radio frequency antenna. As well, the electronic module can include an internal transmitter electrically coupled to the energy converter and the radio frequency antenna. |
| US09353812B2 |
Mass reduction of brake rotors
One exemplary embodiment may include a product including a first brake rotor cheek having a first body and at least a first outer surface. A first hardened region may extend from the first outer surface towards the center of the body. In one embodiment, the first hardened region may include a nitro-carburized ferrous metal. |
| US09353809B2 |
Vehicle disc brake
One embodiment provides a vehicle disc brake, including a caliper body, a caliper bracket, a pair of friction pads and pad retainers. Lengths of a part of reacting claws of the caliper body are set so that distal end portions thereof are disposed further radially outwards in a radial direction of a disc brake rotor than inward pieces of retainer portions of pad retainers. And, distal end portions of the inward pieces are brought into abutment with lug pieces of the friction pads in a position which lies further inwards of the caliper body than circumferential end faces of these reacting claws. |
| US09353808B2 |
Bi-directional clutch lock
A bi-directional linear clutch lock is provided that may selectively restrain a rack from translating. A bi-directional rotary clutch lock is provided that may selectively restrain a rotary rack from rotating. |
| US09353806B2 |
Method of estimating torque of transmission clutch
A method of estimating a torque of a transmission clutch may include adjusting an error, deducing an estimated engine angular speed and deducing an estimated clutch torque. The error may be adjusted by deducing an engine transient torque based on an engine angular speed measured using a sensor, an engine static torque deduced using a data map and a load torque depending on a driving load. The estimated engine angular speed may be deduced based on the engine static torque and the engine transient torque. The estimated clutch torque may be deduced by summing an integration value and an error compensation value. The integration value and the error compensation value may be deduced based on a difference between the estimated engine angular speed and the measured engine angular speed. |
| US09353801B2 |
Electrified vehicle powertrain clutch
An exemplary clutch device of an electrified vehicle includes a first member having a plurality of lugs about an axis, and a second member including a plurality of apertures. The plurality of lugs are selectively moveable axially into corresponding apertures to couple together rotation of the first member and the second member. Interfaces between the first member and the second member when under positive torque are angled differently than interfaces between the first member and the second member when under negative torque. |
| US09353799B2 |
Boot for joints, such as constant velocity joints, with a transition area
A boot for joints, such as constant velocity joints, has a first attachment region and a fold region with a plurality of folds with peaks and roots and a transition area adjacent to the last fold arranged near said first attachment region. The transition area includes a connecting root between said last fold in the transition part, wherein at least part of said transition part is inclined towards said first attachment region, and wherein said transition part, in a cross-sectional view in a direction of a main axis of the boot, has a convex or an essentially planar shape. |
| US09353798B2 |
Torsional vibration damper assembly, in particular for the drive train of a motor vehicle
A torsional vibration damping arrangement, particularly for the drivetrain of a vehicle, includes an input region (12) to be driven in rotation around an axis of rotation (A) and an output region (20), wherein a first torque transmission path (14) and parallel thereto a second torque transmission path (16) and a coupling arrangement (18) for superposing the torques conducted via the torque transmission paths (14, 16) are provided between the input region (12) and the output region (20), wherein a phase shifter arrangement (26) is provided in the first torque transmission path (14) for generating a phase shift of rotational irregularities conducted via the first torque transmission path (14) relative to rotational irregularities conducted via the second torque transmission path (16), and wherein the coupling arrangement (18) includes a coupling lever arrangement (54; 54a). |
| US09353797B2 |
Bearing ring for a bearing, in particular for a rolling or sliding bearing
A bearing ring, in particular of a rolling bearing or a sliding bearing, including a body made of a magnetostrictive material, having a first raceway (2) and a second, axially spaced apart, raceway (2′) and a permanent magnetization (3) which is impressed into the material of the body between the raceways (2, 2′) and which runs around an axis of rotation (9) of the body. According to the invention, the bearing ring achieves the object of improving the structural integration of a torque sensor into a bearing, which torque sensor generates a torque-dependent magnetic field by utilizing the inverse magnetostrictive effect. |
| US09353792B2 |
Biased compound radial plain bearing for increased life in oscillating pivot motion
Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein include bearings with three races: an inner race, a shared race, and an outer race that exhibit increased life under oscillatory loads. The exemplary embodiments may include one or more directional biasing mechanisms configured such that when a bearing shaft rotates in one direction, the shared race rotates with it, and when the shaft oscillates in the other direction, the shared race is impeded from moving in the other direction. Under continued oscillation, the shared race will “walk” in circles around the shaft, effectively distributing the load and wear over the entire circumference of a bearing surface. |
| US09353787B2 |
Crankshaft bearing cap with optimized pillars
A crankshaft bearing cap in a shape of a half-cylinder of axis X coinciding with the axis of the crankshaft and including diametrically opposed attachment pillars, each column-shaped pillar including a substantially oval upper surface incorporating a bearing surface surrounding a borehole through which a fixing screw can pass and a bearing surface for a screw head, the surface surrounding the borehole, and each attachment pillar further including at least two lateral and vertical grooves over a portion of the height of the pillar, the grooves being situated outside a vertical bearing cylinder having a base equal to the bearing surface and outside of a volume defined by the transverse plane passing through the axes of the attachment holes and extending symmetrically in the X-direction over a length. |
| US09353785B2 |
Assembly of two parts made of composite material
An assembly of parts, at least one of which is made of composite material, includes at least one fastener including a body and also two stops, between which the parts held by the fastener are disposed, holes formed in the parts held by the fastener, the body of the fastener being accommodated in the holes, the holes having a diameter adapted to that of the body of the fastener so as to allow transmission of forces by the parts and the fastener hammering together. The stops of the fastener exert a compressive force C that makes it possible to obtain transmission of forces by adhesion between the parts held by the fastener. |
| US09353782B2 |
Anchor for hollow walls
An anchor for mounting to a hollow wall made of friable material comprises a proximal flanged end adapted to be engaged by a rotatable tool to rotate the anchor about a longitudinal axis thereof and to cause is to gradually engage the wall. The anchor also includes a distal end adapted to cut through the wall as the anchor is rotated, and a shank extending between the proximal and distal ends. The shank includes at least one expandable leg that is in a collapsed position thereof when the anchor is rotated to mount it to the wall and that is located distally beyond a non visible surface of the wall once the anchor has been mounted to the wall and is in a first position thereof. The wall anchor includes an outer thread that securely engages the wall. A threaded fastener, e.g. a screw, is adapted to be introduced in the anchor and to threadably engage the same distally of the leg such that sufficient rotation of the threaded fastener retracts the distal end towards the proximal end thereby causing the leg to displace to a laterally expanded position thereof and to engage the non visible surface of the wall. |
| US09353778B2 |
Screw connection
A screw connection, in particular for machine construction, special machine construction and plant construction, comprises a first element with an external thread and a first head part, and comprises a second element with an internal thread and a second head part. When the first element is screwed fully into the second element, a surface between the first head part and the second head part is formed as a smooth circular cylinder which is suitable in particular for pinning. In this way, a particularly simple screw connection is created which simultaneously serves for pinning and which is versatile. |
| US09353771B2 |
Multiple-stage valve system
A multiple-stage valve system (200) including a pilot fluid supply (209) and a process fluid supply (222) is provided. The multiple-stage valve system includes a first pilot valve (201) including a first port (206) in fluid communication with the pilot fluid supply and a second port (207) selectively in fluid communication with the first port. The multiple-stage valve system also comprises a second pilot valve (202). The second pilot valve can include a first port (213) in fluid communication with the process fluid supply and a second port (214) selectively in fluid communication with the first port. The second pilot valve also includes a first pressure-actuated biasing member (217) in fluid communication with the process fluid supply and a second pressure-actuated biasing member (218) in fluid communication with the second port of the first pilot valve. The multiple-stage valve system also comprises a main control valve (203). The main control valve can include a first port (220) in fluid communication with the process fluid supply and a second port (221) selectively in fluid communication with the first port. The main control valve can also include a first pressure-actuated biasing member (225) in fluid communication with the process fluid supply and a second pressure-actuated biasing (226) member in fluid communication with the second port of the second pilot valve. |
| US09353770B2 |
Hydraulic system for a work vehicle
A hydraulic system for a work vehicle is disclosed. A preferential flow-dividing valve supplies a fixed amount of oil discharged from a variable displacement pump preferentially to a preferential hydraulic oil section and a surplus oil flow from the pump to a non-preferential hydraulic oil section. A plurality of electromagnetic proportional control valves are provided in the non-preferential hydraulic oil section for controlling oil flows relative to a plurality of hydraulically operated devices provided in the non-preferential hydraulic oil section. A necessary flow rate calculating module calculates a necessary oil flow rate in each of the preferential hydraulic oil section and the non-preferential hydraulic oil section based on a preferential oil flow rate of the preferential flow-dividing valve supplied to the preferential hydraulic oil section and an amount of current distributed to each of the plurality of electromagnetic proportional control valves in the non-preferential hydraulic oil section. |
| US09353769B2 |
Hydraulic tool that commands prime mover output
The present disclosure provides embodiments directed towards a system for the control of hydraulic output by a hydraulic power source. In one embodiment, a system is provided. The system includes a hydraulic supply system having a drive, a hydraulic pump coupled to the drive, a first hydraulic output configured to supply a first flow of a hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump to a hydraulic lift, a second hydraulic output configured to supply a second flow of the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump to a first hydraulic tool, and a controller configured to adjust a speed of the drive in response to a feedback indicative of a first load by the hydraulic lift, a second load by the first hydraulic tool, or a combination thereof. |
| US09353765B2 |
Centrifugal compressor assembly and method
A centrifugal compressor assembly for compressing refrigerant in a 250-ton capacity or larger chiller system comprising a motor, preferably a compact, high energy density motor or permanent magnet motor, for driving a shaft at a range of sustained operating speeds under the control of a variable speed drive. Another embodiment of the centrifugal compressor assembly comprises a mixed flow impeller and a vaneless diffuser sized such that a final stage compressor operates with an optimal specific speed range for targeted combinations of head and capacity, while a non-final stage compressor operates above the optimum specific speed of the final stage compressor. Another embodiment of the centrifugal compressor assembly comprises an integrated inlet flow conditioning assembly comprising a flow conditioning nose, a plurality of inlet guide vanes and a flow conditioning body that positions inlet guide vanes to condition flow of refrigerant into an impeller to achieve a target approximately constant angle swirl distribution with minimal guide vane turning. |
| US09353764B2 |
Fan propeller, in particular for a motor vehicle
A fan propeller comprises blades (14), each of which has a general profile of the aircraft wing type, with a leading edge (28) and a trailing edge (30), a neutral axis (32) and a span (36) between the leading edge (28) and the trailing edge (30). According to one embodiment, the blade (14) has, on at least part of its length, a profile shaped such that the neutral axis (32) makes possible a point of contraflexure (34), and has two opposite concavities, i.e. a positive concavity (C1) between the leading edge (28) and the point of contraflexure (34), and a negative concavity (C2) between the point of contraflexure (34) and the trailing edge (30). Application to motor vehicles. |
| US09353762B2 |
Pressure compensating wet seal chamber
Some embodiments of the invention provide a pump including a pump chamber, a shaft at least partially positioned in the pump chamber, an impeller coupled to the shaft, and a seal coupled to the shaft. The pump also includes a wet seal chamber. The wet seal chamber can include a separator with a disc and a resilient member. The disc includes one or more slots through which fluid pressure from the pump chamber is transferred to the resilient member. The wet seal chamber substantially prevents fluid from contacting the seal in order to prolong a life of the seal. |
| US09353761B2 |
Oil return structure for fan
An oil return structure for fan includes a base, a bearing, a retaining ring and a rotor. The base has a bearing cup internally defining a receiving space for receiving the bearing therein. The bearing has a centered and axially extended shaft hole. The retaining ring is located at a front end of the bearing and has a central hole. The rotor includes a hub and a shaft. The shaft is extended through the central hole of the retaining ring into the shaft hole of the bearing, and is provided with an annular groove corresponding to the retaining ring. Oil in the bearing flowing to the annular groove during fan operation is centrifugally pulled out of the shaft and then caught by the retaining ring, from where the oil returns to the bearing. Therefore, loss of oil from the bearing is largely reduced to ensure extended fan service life. |
| US09353759B2 |
Turbocharger bypass system
A turbocharger bypass system and method for minimizing the occurrence of oil seepage from the bearing housing into the compressor housing as a result of a pressure differential across the bearing housing and the compressor housing. A bypass system with a pressure dependent check valve is connected to the inlet air passage of a turbocharged engine. When the pressure in the inlet air passage drops to below atmosphere or a predetermined level of depression, the check valve opens to allow a flow of atmospheric air into the inlet air passage, thus minimizing or eliminating the pressure differential generated as a result of a vacuum in the inlet air passage during motoring conditions, or when an exhaust valve downstream of the turbocharger is closed, such as during engine braking. The bypass system is applicable to both single stage and dual stage turbocharged internal combustion engines. |
| US09353758B2 |
Fan module
The invention relates to a fan module, in particular for air conditioners in vehicles, comprising an electric motor and a fan rotor, wherein the electric motor and the fan rotor are arranged on a rotor shaft and are connected to each other by a drive connection, and wherein the electric motor is designed to drive the fan rotor via a drive connection, wherein the drive connection has a positive connection to a driver and a mating driver piece, wherein the driver on the electric motor and the mating driver piece on the fan rotor are arranged spaced apart radially with respect to the rotor shaft, wherein the driver is formed and designed in the direction of rotation of the fan rotor to actuate the mating driver piece in order to transmit a force from the electric motor to the fan rotor. |
| US09353757B2 |
Magnetically actuated fluid pump
An integrated fluid management system is provided with capability to deliver precise flow rate and fluid dosing capability over a wide range of operator set parameters. A magnetically actuated pump head is low cost, affords simple installation, and may be disposable. Multiple pump heads may be docked to a single drive module or control module to provide concurrent metering of multiple fluids and to maintain precise volume ratio of the multiple fluids to one another. The magnetic pump head may be integrated with radio frequency Identification devices (RFID) and Hall Effect Sensors to provide customized control and fail safe operation. |
| US09353755B2 |
Turbomolecular pump device
A turbomolecular pump device includes: a turbomolecular pump main body; a power unit that drives the turbomolecular pump main body; and a water cooling unit that is provided between the turbomolecular pump main body and the power unit, wherein components provided in a casing of the power unit are classified into an intensive cooling required component that requires intensive cooling, a moderate cooling required component that requires moderate cooling, and a no cooling required component that requires substantially no cooling, the intensive cooling required component is mounted on a first high-conductivity substrate contacting to the water cooling unit, the moderate cooling required component is mounted on a second high heat-conductive substrate contacting to an inner surface of the casing, and the no cooling required component is mounted on a substrate arranged in a space between the first high heat-conductive substrate and the second high heat-conductive substrate. |
| US09353754B2 |
Multi-stage axial compressor with counter-rotation using accessory drive
A multi-stage axial compressor for counter rotation. A first series of rotor blade assemblies are mounted on and rotate with the driveshaft, each rotor blade assembly of the first series comprising a rotating stage of the multi-stage axial compressor. A second series of rotor blade assemblies provide a counter-rotating stage of the multi-stage axial compressor. An accessory drive links the second series of rotor blade assemblies to the driveshaft and causes counter-rotation of the second series of rotor blade assemblies. |
| US09353753B2 |
Helical driver to reduce stress in brittle bearing materials
An electrical submersible pump (ESP) having a sleeve coupled to the shaft that rotates as the shaft rotates. The sleeve can be a base portion of a pump impeller, a journal bearing, or a bushing. A drive collar mounts around the shaft and has an end with a portion that projects past an end of the sleeve profiled to correspond with the shape of the projecting portion. As the shaft rotates the drive collar the projecting portion of the drive collar pushes against the profiled end of the sleeve to rotate the sleeve. The projecting portion can be a wedge shaped tab on the drive collar, or an angular segment of the drive collar extending axially past the remaining segments. The profiled end of the sleeve can include a recess formed to receive the tab and can have an angular segment corresponding to that on the drive collar. |
| US09353749B2 |
Axially compliant orbiting plate scroll and scroll pump comprising the same
An orbiting plate scroll of a scroll pump includes an orbiting plate having a first side and a second side, an orbiting scroll blade projecting in an axial direction from the first side of the orbiting plate, and a flexure whose compliance is in the axial direction. The flexure is coupled to the orbiting plate at the second side of the orbiting plate, and couples the orbiting plate and orbiting scroll blade to bearings that allow for free rotation of the orbiting plate scroll about a longitudinal axis, while constraining motion of the orbiting plate scroll in the remaining degrees of freedom. |
| US09353748B2 |
Scroll pump having tip seal containing engaging portions intermediate nonengaging portions that interface with a scroll base
The present invention relates to a scroll pump (10) comprising two scrolls (20, 22) which are co-operable for pumping fluid from an inlet (24) to an outlet (26) on relative orbiting motion of the scrolls. Each scroll comprises a scroll base (30, 36) from which a spiral scroll wall (28, 34) extends generally axially towards the base of the opposing scroll. The pump comprises a tip seal arrangement comprising an axial end portion of one or both of the scroll walls which locates a tip seal (508) for resisting the passage of pumped fluid across the or both scroll walls between the or both scroll walls and the scroll base of the opposing scroll. The tip seal arrangement limits axial movement of the tip seal towards the scroll base of the opposing scroll along a first spiral region (507) of the or both scrolls between the inlet and the outlet. |
| US09353746B2 |
Scroll pump
A scroll compressor may include a scroll pumping mechanism which includes an orbiting scroll having an orbiting scroll wall extending axially from an orbiting scroll plate towards a fixed scroll and a fixed scroll having a fixed scroll wall extending axially from a fixed scroll plate towards the orbiting scroll. An axial end portion of one of the scroll walls includes a first sealing arrangement and a second sealing arrangement arranged in series along the scroll wall from the inlet to the outlet for sealing between the axial end portion of the scroll wall and the scroll plate of the opposing scroll. The first sealing arrangement may have first sealing characteristics which are selected according to the sealing requirements local to the first sealing arrangement and the second sealing arrangement may have second, different sealing characteristics which are selected according to sealing requirements local to the second sealing arrangement. |
| US09353745B2 |
Scroll compressor having a scroll supporter and/or movement limiter
A scroll compressor having a scroll supporter and/or movement limiter is provided. The scroll compressor may include a casing, a main frame fixedly installed within the casing, a first scroll rotatably supported by the main frame, a second scroll supported by the main frame, such that the second scroll is movable in a vertical direction with respect to the first scroll, a guide that guides movement of the second scroll in the vertical direction, while preventing the second scroll from being rotated in an axial direction; and a movement limiter disposed on an inner wall of the casing and separated from the second scroll, the movement limiter being configured to limit a movement distance of the second scroll in an upward direction. |
| US09353743B2 |
Fixed and variable pumps with parallel flow
A pump (1, 10) having a housing (15) with a suction-side fluid inlet (4) and with a pressure-side fluid outlet (5), having a first pump unit (2, 11) and having a second pump unit (3, 12), the first pump unit (2, 11) being connected hydraulically in parallel with respect to the second pump unit (3, 12), wherein the first pump unit (2, 11) is a pump unit that exhibits a constant volume flow, wherein the second pump unit (3, 12) is a pump unit that exhibits variably adjustable volume flow. |
| US09353736B1 |
Modular radial compressor
A modular radial compressor for compressing fluids includes a compression vessel having a collapsible vessel internal space having expanded and a compressed sizes, the compression vessel having an intake structure for passing fluid into the vessel internal space from a fluid source and an output structure for passing fluid out of the vessel internal space; a rotatable arm structure having an arms structure rotational axis and at least one radial arm protrusion positioned to periodically about one or multiple compression vessels and compress the vessel internal spaces; a rotational drive mechanism drivably connected to the rotatable arm structure for rotatably driving the arm structure and the arm protrusion about the arm structure rotational axis; and a compression vessel expansion mechanism for expanding the vessel internal space to its expanded size subsequent to each vessel internal space compression. |
| US09353734B2 |
Active material elements having reinforced structural connectors
A load-carrying active material assembly and a method of preparing such an active material assembly suitable for attachment to a movable component of a mechanism is described. The assembly includes a shape memory alloy (SMA) element, a connector adapted to engage the moveable component mechanically crimped to the SMA element, and a filler material disposed intermediate the connector and SMA element. The filler may be a solder or a polymer. Methods for appropriately distributing the filler material and for promoting good adhesion of the filler to the SMA element and the connector are described. |
| US09353730B2 |
Wind energy devices, systems, and methods
Wind energy systems and devices include a nacelle, a rotor driven alternator housed in the nacelle, a rotor connected to the alternator, and a load control system in communication with the alternator. The rotor includes a rotor hub and three or more rotor blades, and each blade has a foil shape and is connected to the rotor hub by a full foil attachment mechanism. The alternator is configured to operate at low rpm and to increase rotation speed without a step-up mechanism. The load control system is configured to anticipate changes in wind speed and adjust alternator load such that when wind speed increases the load control system adjusts the alternator load to optimize rotor rpm and optimize tip-speed ratio. |
| US09353728B2 |
Invention relating to rotor blades, in particular for wind power installations
A rotor blade is provided, in particular for wind turbine generators including a means for the modification of the camber, wherein the modification of the camber is realized by means of elements passively coupled to one another, i.e. without external energy supply (apart from the energy contained in the airflow surrounding the rotor blade). One of the elements is therefore arranged at the leading and the trailing edge of the airfoil of the rotor blade, respectively. The coupling of the elements, the stiffness of the airfoil and the strength of the damping are hereby arranged in a manner suitable to be modified. |
| US09353721B2 |
Work implement with an internal combustion engine
A work implement has an internal combustion engine that drives a tool of the work implement via a clutch. The clutch has at least one driving element which is operatively connected to the internal combustion engine and at least one output element which is operatively connected to the tool. The internal combustion engine has a starting device with a starting position and an operating position. To avoid unintentional rotation of the output element when starting the internal combustion engine, the work implement has a blocking device with a detent pawl. In an actuated position, the detent pawl projects into the movement path of the output element, limiting the rotation of the output element. In an unactuated position, the detent pawl releases the output element. The starting device has an actuating device which, in the starting position, keeps the detent pawl in the actuated position. |
| US09353715B2 |
Fuel injector
A fuel injector for injecting fuel into an internal combustion engine includes: a housing having at least one spray orifice; a magnet armature movable linearly in the housing; a magnetic coil acting magnetically on the magnet armature; and a valve element movable linearly with respect to the housing and with respect to the magnet armature, the valve element, together with the at least one spray orifice, forming a valve seat, a first stop on the valve element, and a tension spring pulling the magnet armature against the first stop. |
| US09353713B2 |
Fuel water separator filter with water drain
A fuel water separator (FWS) filter that is configured to permit water to be drained from the water sump of the FWS filter without shutting off fuel flow to the FWS filter. A check valve is positioned between the water sump and the filter element. When the FWS filter is under vacuum (e.g. as in operation), the check valve can be closed to allow water to drain from the sump. The check valve can close automatically by floating on accumulated water in the sump until the water rises to a level where the check valve is closed. The check valve can also close by opening the drain valve of the FWS filter, which causes a differential pressure between the sump and the vacuum created in the filter element chamber, which forces the check valve to close. |
| US09353712B2 |
Fuel interface modules and related systems and methods
Fuel interface modules that can be used in automotive vehicle fuel systems can include a body that defines a fuel channel and a plurality of ports through which fluid communication with the fuel channel can be established. Some modules include a check valve, a shutoff valve, and a coalescing filter assembly that are each coupled with a separate port. The fuel modules can be quickly installed and can eliminate many of the installing materials typically associated with automotive vehicle fuel systems. |
| US09353708B2 |
Method and system for fuel vapor control
Methods and systems are provided for monitoring a fuel vapor recovery system including a fuel tank isolation valve coupled between a fuel tank and a canister. During selected conditions, the valve is modulated and pressure pulsations in the fuel vapor recovery system are monitored. Valve degradation is identified based on correlations between the valve modulation and the resultant pressure pulsations. |
| US09353700B2 |
Hybrid drive train, hybrid vehicle, and operating method
A method for operating a hybrid drive train involves operating an internal combustion engine using a low-NOx operating method in a range of low and average rotational speeds and/or loads, and operating the internal combustion engine using a spark ignition operating method in a range of higher rotational speeds and/or loads. |
| US09353698B2 |
Method for regulating a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine
A method for regulating a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine includes outputting from a control unit an instruction to start an injection process of fuel through an injection valve, wherein during a determination of a time of the outputting of the instruction to start the injection process, the control unit takes into account delays caused by the mechanical system of the injection valve. Furthermore, during the determination of the time of the outputting of the instruction to start the injection process, the control unit also takes into account a correction value which describes the fuel pressure in the injector feed line. |
| US09353694B2 |
Intake temperature control systems and methods for intake manifold protection
An engine control system of a vehicle includes a first temperature module, a second temperature module, and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) control module. The first temperature module determines a temperature of gas within an intake manifold of an engine. The second temperature module determines a temperature of an EGR conduit that is coupled to the intake manifold. The EGR control module reduces opening of an EGR valve when the temperature of the gas and the temperature of the conduit is greater than a predetermined temperature. |
| US09353693B2 |
Vehicle control device
A vehicle control device includes an engine that is a power source of a vehicle, an electrical storage device, a starting device connected to the electrical storage device and configured to consume electrical power to start the engine, and a power steering device connected to the electrical storage device and configured to consume electrical power to generate an assist torque, wherein an engine stop control of causing the engine to be in a stopped state is executable during travelling of the vehicle, and the engine stop control is prohibited in at least one of time of turning of the vehicle, time of steering of the vehicle during travelling, and time of generating an assist torque during travelling. |
| US09353689B2 |
Fuel supply device of gas turbine engine
In a fuel supply device of a gas turbine engine of the present invention, a fuel divider 66 includes a fuel entrance E1 into which the fuel supplied from a collecting fuel passage 63 is introduced; a pilot port 76 connected to the pilot fuel passage 64; a main port 77 connected to the main fuel passage 65; a pilot port needle valve element 101 which adjusts an opening degree of the pilot port 76; a main port needle valve element 102 which opens and closes the main port 77; and a drive element 100 which is actuated according to the fuel pressure at the fuel inlet E1 to drive the pilot port needle valve element 101 and the main port needle valve element 102. |
| US09353688B2 |
High pressure, multiple metering zone gas turbine engine fuel supply system
A gas turbine engine fuel supply system includes a primary gear pump, a secondary gear pump, and a pump bypass valve. The primary gear pump always actively delivers fuel to the downstream fuel system, and is sized to supply 100% of the burn flow needed at a select low demand condition. The secondary gear pump is sized to make up the remainder of the flow at high demand conditions, and actively delivers fuel to the downstream fuel system only during those conditions. To supply discharge fuel pressures in excess of gear pump capability, a supercharger pump is disposed upstream of the primary and secondary gear pumps. The pump bypass valve is configured to regulate fuel pressure at the primary gear pump outlet to one of a plurality of preset differential pressures above one of a plurality of fuel load pressures and prevents reverse pressurization of the gear pumps. |
| US09353686B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating motive power
A cooling medium supply apparatus has a sensing means and a cooling medium pump mechanism which is powered by a gas turbine engine assembly. The gas turbine engine assembly is self-contained with a fuel supply, an ignition system and a starting system. The sensing means monitors the presence of a primary supply of a cooling medium, and on detecting a loss of the primary supply, actuates the gas turbine assembly to provide a secondary supply of the cooling medium. |
| US09353684B2 |
Aircraft engine airflow modulation apparatus and method for engine bay cooling and cycle flow matching
The present invention relates to a system and method of LO airflow modulation for use with a DTSA engine. A DTSA engine is positioned within an aircraft fuselage and the second DTSA turbine fan includes it own dedicated decoupled air inlet duct that is formed co-centrically about the housing. An airflow modulator member is positioned in duct to form the duct wall when the modulator is in a closed position. The Modulator member is pivotally connected to the duct wall, and is movable by an actuator to a second open position that allows airflow to escape the third stream duct, and provide airflow to both the DTSA fan blades as well as engine bay for cooling. The method of the present invention provides airflow modulation to an aircraft employing a DTSA engine, said method including the receiving of airflow from a supersonic aircraft intake; sensing a number of parameters, including, but not limited to aircraft speed, temperature, engine load and/or altitude. Calculating an efficient amount of airflow to provide to the DTSA turbine blades thorough a decoupled airstream; and directing movement of a modulator vane located in the intake duct to vary airflow to the DTSA turbine. |
| US09353678B2 |
Reformer enhanced alcohol engine
Reformer-enhanced alcohol engine system. The engine system includes a spark-ignited alcohol engine having a compression ratio in the range of 13-15 and includes a turbocharger or supercharger operatively connected to the engine to provide a pressure boost of at least about 2.5 times atmospheric pressure to cylinders of the engine. A source of alcohol is provided for injection into the engine. A reformer is provided including a low-temperature reforming catalyst in a heat transfer relation with exhaust gas from the engine and arranged to receive alcohol from the alcohol source for reforming the alcohol into a hydrogen-rich gas. Means are provided for injecting the hydrogen-rich gas into the engine and a knock sensor detects knock in the engine. A fuel management control unit is provided which is responsive to the knock sensor to apportion the ratio of alcohol injected into the engine to hydrogen-rich gas injected into the engine. The engine of the invention can provide a 15-25% efficiency gain in a methanol-fueled spark ignition engine relative to a diesel engine in a typical drive cycle. |
| US09353677B2 |
Control methods and control apparatuses of internal-combustion engines
A control apparatus calculates an upstream side pressure and temperature on an upstream side of a turbine impeller and a turbine flow rate, and calculates an upper limit threshold value of an opening degree level of a variable nozzle of a turbo supercharger such that a turbine pressure ratio is equal to or less than a predetermined ratio on a basis of the turbine flow rate and a pressure ratio•turbine flow rate characteristic. The pressure ratio•turbine flow rate characteristic is pre-stored information indicating a relationship between the turbine pressure ratio, the turbine flow rate, and the opening degree level of the variable nozzle. The control apparatus controls an opening degree of the variable nozzle so as to be an opening degree equal to or less than the upper limit threshold value. |
| US09353673B2 |
Engine fan control system and method
This document discloses an adaptive fan control system for controlling a fan that cools an engine of a machine. Many machines carry out repetitive tasks or work cycles. The cooling requirements of the engine vary for each portion or segment of a work cycle. The disclosed system includes a controller with a memory having a plurality of stored work cycle patterns. Using a variety of sensors, the system and controller identifies the work cycle that the machine is carrying out and, using one of the stored work cycle patterns, the system anticipates the cooling requirements of the machine as the machine progresses through the work cycle and the system proactively changes the fan speed for upcoming segments of the work cycle. |
| US09353672B2 |
Cooling system and method for a vehicle engine
An exemplary cooling system includes, among other things, a first pump to supply coolant to a cylinder head or cylinder block of an engine, a second pump to supply coolant to a cylinder block or cylinder head of the engine. A control unit governs the first pump and second pump. Fluid return channels recirculate coolant to the pumps. The first and second pumps are arranged to backflow coolant through the engine. |
| US09353671B2 |
Fan unit for a heat exchanger
A fan unit for a heat exchanger, has a plate-like support structure or shroud with a main opening defining an air passage for ventilation of the heat exchanger. An electric drive motor is fixed to the support structure or shroud. An impeller is arranged inside the main opening and driven by the drive motor. A spray protection screen associated with a side of the motor remote from the impeller is fixed to the support structure or shroud in such a way that, during use, it is substantially vertical and defines an inlet opening for an air flow for cooling the motor. The spray protection screen has an outwardly projecting deviating formation designed to deflect outside of the inlet opening, water which may flow over the outer surface of the screen during operation of the fan unit. |
| US09353668B2 |
Construction machine
A regeneration device burns particulate matter trapped in a filter in an exhaust gas purifying device to execute regeneration treatment of the filter. The regeneration device performs a determination whether or not the regeneration treatment is executed using a first estimated trapping quantity (H1) estimated based upon a differential pressure (ΔP=P1−P2) as a difference between pressure (P1) in an inlet side and pressure (P2) in an outlet side of the filter and a second estimated trapping quantity (H2) estimated based upon a rotational speed (N) of an engine, a fuel injection quantity (F) and an exhaust gas temperature (GT). In this case, the determination whether or not the regeneration treatment is executed is performed using only the second estimated trapping quantity (H2) when the engine is in a predetermined low rotational condition. |
| US09353667B2 |
Exhaust pressure line for an internal combustion engine
An exhaust pressure line for an internal combustion engine is provided. The internal combustion engine has an engine block and is equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter. The exhaust pressure line has a pressure line configured to send pressure signals from the Diesel Particulate Filter to an exhaust pressure sensor. A portion of the pressure line extends through the engine block. |
| US09353664B2 |
Method for operating an exhaust gas treatment system having an SCR catalytic converter
In a system with an SCR catalytic converter, a correction by a changeable long term adaption factor to a target dosing rate is provided for the model dosing rate and a correction by a changeable short term adaption factor to an assumed actual filling state for the ammonia filling level value. A dosing unit controllable by a control unit adds an ammonia-containing reducing agent to the exhaust gas and an exhaust gas enriched with ammonia according to the dosing is fed to the SCR catalytic converter. An ammonia filling level value for a filling level of ammonia stored in the SCR catalytic converter and a model dosing rate for dosing the reducing agent into the exhaust gas are calculated by a computer model. |
| US09353661B2 |
Method and system for activating catalyst of hybrid vehicle
A method and a system for activating a catalyst of a hybrid vehicle are provided. In particular, the system and the method maintain a speed of a motor to be a predetermined speed when a transmission of the hybrid vehicle is in a neutral state and heat and activate the catalyst by increasing an engine torque through a slip of an engine clutch. The method includes increasing, by a controller, torque of an engine by controlling a slip of an engine clutch disposed between the engine and a motor of the hybrid vehicle. The controller determines whether a temperature of the catalyst of the hybrid vehicle reaches a predetermined temperature and feedback-controls the slip of the engine clutch when the temperature of the catalyst is less than the predetermined temperature. |
| US09353660B2 |
SCR system and a method of purging it
There is provided a system for storing and injecting an additive into exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, the system comprising a tank for storing the additive, an injector, and a pump for driving the additive from the tank to the injector via an injection channel, the system also comprising a purge device mounted between the pump and the injection channel. The purge device comprises a chamber and piston moving equipment slidably mounted in the chamber, the purge device being designed so that: movement of the moving equipment in one of its sliding directions causes a passage to open into the chamber for passing the additive to the injection channel; and movement of the moving equipment in its other sliding direction creates suction within the chamber, which causes at least some of the additive contained in the injection channel to return into the chamber. |
| US09353647B2 |
Wide discourager tooth
Oil sump seal pressurization apparatus for turbine engines are disclosed. An example oil sump seal pressurization apparatus may include a non-rotating oil sump housing a bearing; an oil seal isolating an interior of the oil sump; a passage arranged to supply pressurization air to an outward side of the oil seal; a drain arranged to allow draining of oil and venting of at least some of the pressurization air, the drain being positioned axially between the passage and the oil seal; a wide discourager tooth disposed on the shaft and extending radially outward towards a non-rotating land, which may be disposed axially between the passage and the drain, the wide discourager tooth being spaced apart from the land in a radial direction by a gap, the wide discourager tooth including an upper surface; and/or an adjacent tooth disposed on the shaft and extending radially outward from the shaft. |
| US09353646B2 |
Slippery surfaces with high pressure stability, optical transparency, and self-healing characteristics
The present disclosure describes a strategy to create self-healing, slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPS). Roughened (e.g., porous) surfaces can be utilized to lock in place a lubricating fluid, referred to herein as Liquid B to repel a wide range of materials, referred to herein as Object A (Solid A or Liquid A). SLIPS outperforms other conventional surfaces in its capability to repel various simple and complex liquids (water, hydrocarbons, crude oil and blood), maintain low-contact-angle hysteresis (<2.5°), quickly restore liquid-repellency after physical damage (within 0.1-1 s), resist ice, microorganisms and insects adhesion, and function at high pressures (up to at least 690 atm). Some exemplary application where SLIPS will be useful include energy-efficient fluid handling and transportation, optical sensing, medicine, and as self-cleaning, and anti-fouling materials operating in extreme environments. |
| US09353643B2 |
Variable stator vane assembly for a turbine engine
A stator assembly for a turbine engine includes a support structure, such as an outer case, providing a bore. A non-metallic bushing is arranged in the bore and extends radially between inner and outer diameters providing a one-piece structure. The outer diameter of the bushing engages the bore in a press-fit relationship, in one example. A stator includes a trunnion arranged within and engaging the bushing inner diameter. In one example, the non-metallic bushing is constructed from an electrographitic carbon. The bushing is installed into the bore such that an end of the bushing is generally flush with or recessed from a wall on the support structure. |
| US09353641B2 |
Controlling blade tip clearances in a turbine engine
A turbine engine including a controller controlling clearance between tips of moving blades of a high-pressure turbine and an outer casing surrounding the blades, by cooling the outer casing by the impact of air taken from a high-pressure compressor stage of the engine, and by electric heating of top and bottom portions of the outer casing. |
| US09353640B2 |
Turbine
A turbine includes a blade, a structure installed at a tip section side of the blade via a gap and configured to relatively rotate with respect to the blade, a step section formed at the tip section of the blade, having at least one step surface, and protruding toward a portion opposite to the tip section of the structure, a seal fin formed at the portion opposite to the tip section of the structure, extending toward the step section, and configured to form a micro gap between the step section and the seal fin, and a cutout section formed at the step surface to be connected to an upper surface of the step section. The cutout section guides a separation vortex separated from a main stream of a fluid passing through the gap toward the seal fin on the upper surface of the step section. |
| US09353639B2 |
Windback device for a circumferential seal
The disclosure describes a windback device for a circumferential seal within a turbine engine. The windback device includes an annular collar at one end of an annular fluid seal housing, at least one inclined thread, and a plurality of inclined baffles separately disposed along an outer circumferential surface of a rotatable runner. The housing is adapted at another end for an annular seal. The collar has an opening therethrough sized to receive the runner without contact. The annular seal surrounds and sealingly engages the runner. The threads extend from an inner face of the collar toward the runner. The baffles are separately recessed in or raised above the outer circumferential surface of the runner. The baffles are interposed between the runner and threads. Each baffle is separated from the threads via a radial clearance. Threads and baffles direct lubricant away from the annular seal. |
| US09353638B2 |
Wall structure for limiting a hot gas path
A wall structure for restricting a hot-gas path in a gas turbine or in a combustion chamber including a first wall segment having a first face, and a second wall segment having a second face. Each wall segment disposed adjacent to each other so as to define an inside of the wall segments and an outside of the wall segments. The first and second faces being disposed so as to form a gap leading from the inside to the outside. Each of the faces having a receiving groove. The wall structure further including a sealing element having a thickness and disposed in the receiving grooves so as to bridge the gap. The first face having a recess and the second wall segment having a projection that extends from the second face and protrudes into the recess in the first face. The projection has a tapered cross section. |
| US09353636B2 |
Process for replacing a bolted-on nozzle block coupled to a nozzle chamber in a steam turbine
A process is provided for replacing a first nozzle block coupled to a nozzle chamber with a second nozzle block. The process may comprise removing the first nozzle block from the nozzle chamber. The nozzle chamber may comprise a main body having at least one inlet, at least one passage and at least one exit. The process may further comprise coupling inner and outer retaining rings to the nozzle chamber main body; engaging a second nozzle block with the inner and outer retaining rings; forming a bore so as to extend partly in one of the inner and outer retaining rings and the second nozzle block; and locating an anti-rotation pin in the bore. |
| US09353633B2 |
Rotor blade erosion protection system
The present application includes a rotor blade having an erosion protective coating, the coating being a cermet material configured to protect against erosion during the operation of the rotor blade. Further, the present application includes a method of selectively applying the erosion protective coating, a method of selectively repairing/reapplying the erosion protective coating, and a process of developing an erosion surface model map of an optimized erosion protective coating pattern and thickness. |
| US09353632B2 |
Aerofoil structure
An aerofoil structure for a rotating blade-row in a casing. The aerofoil structure includes a suction side, a pressure side and a tip therebetween. At least a portion of the tip includes a shaped feature provided on a surface of the tip. The shaped feature has a convergent portion orientated to reduce a gap between the tip and the casing in a direction from the pressure side to the suction side of the aerofoil structure. |
| US09353623B2 |
Seal assembly for a heat engine
A seal assembly includes first and second seal elements configured to lie adjacent to one another with a lower portion of each one disposed in a groove and an upper portion of each one projecting above the groove. The groove has a length disposed transverse to the direction of relative motion of a housing and a moving member and is located in the housing. The seal elements are further configured so that a contact surface of the upper portion of each seal element abuts the moving member and configured to allow independent movement of each seal element relative to each other in a direction transverse to the groove length. The seal elements are shaped to define a lubrication channel therebetween that is configured to allow the passage of a lubricant therein so as to lubricate motion of the seal elements relative to each other and relative to the moving member. |
| US09353622B2 |
Mining machine with driven disc cutters
A mining machine includes a cutting mechanism with an arm, and a substantial weight of more than a thousand pounds attached to the arm. The mining machine also includes a first disc cutter adapted to engage the material to be mined and mounted on a first disc cutter assembly for eccentrically driving the first disc cutter, the first disc cutter assembly being mounted within the substantial weight. The mining machine also includes at least a second disc cutter spaced apart from the first disc cutter assembly and adapted to engage the material to be mined, and mounted on a second disc cutter assembly for eccentrically driving the second disc cutter, the second disc cutter assembly being mounted within the substantial weight. |
| US09353620B2 |
Detection of permeability anisotropy in the horizontal plane
A method for detection of permeability anisotropy, having steps of positioning a formation testing tool, conducting a series of three flow tests with the testing tool wherein a first test is a four drain flow test, a second test is a pair of opposite drains flowing on diametrically opposite sides of the formation testing tool and a third test is a second pair of opposite drains flowing on opposite drains different than the second test; determining one of horizontal permeability and horizontal mobility, determining one of orthogonal components of horizontal permeability and horizontal mobility based on the measured flow response and determining a direction of the orthogonal components of the horizontal permeability or horizontal mobility with respect to the orientation of the formation testing tool based on a measured flow response. |
| US09353614B2 |
Fluid homogenizer system for gas segregated liquid hydrocarbon wells and method of homogenizing liquids produced by such wells
A system for and method for homogenizing the liquid and the gas and including providing a tube arrangement, first breaking up and separating the slugged gas from the liquid at a first location, and then gathering it into holding location—i.e., an annulus section of the flow tube—where it is re-introduced in controlled amounts into the liquid downstream of the first location. Various alternative gas/liquid separation devices are incorporated into the system which devices may be located either in a vertical wellbore or a horizontal wellbore, depending upon the particular well characteristics. |
| US09353613B2 |
Distributing a wellbore fluid through a wellbore
A method includes preparing a hydraulic fracturing fluid that includes a proppant mixture; adjusting the hydraulic fracturing fluid to a flow pattern operable to distribute a substantially equal distribution of an amount of proppant from the proppant mixture into a plurality of fracture clusters formed in a subterranean zone; and distributing the hydraulic fracturing fluid in the substantially equal distribution of the amount of proppant from the proppant mixture into the plurality of fracture clusters, each of the plurality of fracture clusters formed in the subterranean zone at a unique depth from the terranean surface. |
| US09353611B2 |
Method and apparatus for the downhole injection of superheated steam
Superheated steam from a generator (10) proximate a well (14) is delivered through an output pipe (12) that communicates through a dual entry wellhead (17) with downhole steam piping (18) extending into the well (14). Steam is delivered at approximately 50 PSIG over the frictional and other losses encountered from the surface to the steam piping outlet (19). Oil is extracted through production tubing (20) passing through wellhead (17). Production tubing (20) and steam delivery piping (18) are secured in parallel relationship by clamps (46). The production tubing (20) communicates with a lift pump, and the steam piping (18) is terminated generally at a midpoint of the production tubing (20), several feet above the lift pump. A thermocouple (43) is placed approximately two feet below the end of the steam piping (18). |
| US09353609B2 |
Method and composition for remedial treatment of parafin, asphaltenes, scale and deposits in oil and gas infrastructure and subterranean formations
A method for treating a deposit is disclosed, wherein the deposit comprises a hydrophobic portion and an inorganic portion, the method including but not limited to contacting the deposit with a treating material to form a treated deposit, the treating material comprising peroxygen and surfactant and contacting the treated deposit with an acid. A product resulting from using the method is also disclosed. |
| US09353607B2 |
Inflow control in a production casing
The present invention relates to a downhole inflow control system for controlling an inflow of fluid into a casing from outside the casing, such as from a reservoir or an intermediate casing. The downhole inflow control system comprises a casing having an axial extension and a wall having a wall thickness (t), an inflow control valve having a housing, an axial extension in an axial direction along the housing, and a spring element moving in relation to the housing, thereby controlling the inflow of fluid through the valve from an inlet of the housing to an outlet of the housing. |
| US09353605B2 |
Flow distribution assemblies for preventing sand screen erosion
Disclosed are flow distribution assemblies for distributing fluid flow through well screens. One flow distribution assembly includes a bulkhead arranged about a base pipe having one or more flow ports and defining flow conduits in fluid communication with the flow ports, a sand screen arranged about the base pipe and extending axially from the bulkhead, a flow annulus defined between the sand screen and the base pipe, and flow tubes fluidly coupled to the flow conduits and extending axially from the bulkhead within the flow annulus, the flow tubes being configured to place an interior of the base pipe in fluid communication with the flow annulus via the flow ports, wherein the flow tubes distribute a fluid through the at least one sand screen at a plurality of axial locations within the flow annulus. |
| US09353598B2 |
Seat assembly with counter for isolating fracture zones in a well
A specially designed rotary indexing system and associated operational methods are incorporated in a downhole control device, representatively a sliding sleeve valve, having an outer tubular member in which an annular plug seat is coaxially disposed. The plug seat is resiliently expandable between a first diameter and a larger second diameter and is illustratively of a circumferentially segmented construction. The rotary indexing system is operative to detect the number of plug members that pass through and diametrically expand the plug seat, and responsively preclude passage of further plug members therethrough when such number reaches a predetermined magnitude. Such predetermined magnitude is correlated to the total rotation of an indexing system counter ring portion rotationally driven by axial camming forces transmitted to the rotary indexing system by successive plug member passage-generated diametrical expansions of the plug seat. |
| US09353597B2 |
Apparatus and method for isolating flow in a downhole tool assembly
An apparatus for isolating fluid flow in a bottomhole tool assembly comprises a generally cylindrically shaped flow tube with a side, a top, and a bottom; an upper ball seat connected to the top of the flow tube; a lower ball seat connected to the bottom of the flow tube; a plurality of openings in the side of the flow tube; a tapered inner diameter in the upper ball seat, acting as a ball valve; a tapered inner diameter in the lower ball seat, acting as a ball valve, smaller than the tapered inner diameter in the upper ball seat; an upper sub attached to the bottomhole tool assembly; a lower sub attached to the bottomhole tool assembly; shear pins connecting the upper ball seat to the upper sub; and a limiting pin in the lower sub below the lower ball assembly. |
| US09353596B2 |
Oil well plug and method of use
A frac plug is configured to seal a bore of a pipe of a downhole well. The frac plug comprises a generally cylindrical plug member comprising a glass body. The glass body may be tempered or high-compression glass. The plug member has axial opposite ends and a length extending between the axial ends. The plug member has an outer diameter surface extending along the length. The outer diameter surface is tapered. The frac plug further comprises a seal of compressible material extending substantially around the plug member outer diameter. The seal has opposite axial ends generally corresponding to the axial ends of the plug member. The seal is movable axially relative to the plug member outer diameter surface. The seal is compressible against the plug member outer diameter surface and expandable radially outward to engage the bore of the pipe. |
| US09353594B2 |
Method and apparatus for subsea hose replacement
Systems and methods for replacing a hose coupled to a BOP located subsea are provided. Embodiments include coupling an electromechanical tool to a hose fitting coupled to the BOP, and rotating, with the electromechanical tool, a first swivel fitting with respect to the hose fitting until a first hose is decoupled from the hose fitting. Some embodiments may also include coupling, with the electromechanical tool, a second swivel fitting to the hose fitting to couple a second hose to the hose fitting. The second swivel fitting may be rotated with respect to the hose fitting until the second hose is securely coupled to the hose fitting. |
| US09353593B1 |
Handler for blowout preventer assembly
A handler holds a blowout preventer (BOP) assembly (partially or fully assembled) for transport and then erects it from a transport position to a vertical position for deployment. In the transport position the BOP assembly generally rests in a horizontal position. During deployment of the BOP assembly by the handler, the handler is capable of moving the BOP assembly to a vertical position, elevating it, and moving it outward, away from the base of the handler and toward a wellhead, so that the BOP assembly may be connected to a coiled tubing injector, work may be performed underneath the BOP assembly before connection to a well head, and the BOP assembly may be placed on top of a well head for connection to the well head. |
| US09353587B2 |
Three-way flow sub for continuous circulation
A flow sub for use with a drill string includes: a tubular housing having a longitudinal bore formed therethrough and a flow port formed through a wall thereof; a bore valve operable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the bore valve allows free passage through the bore in the open position and isolates an upper portion of the bore from a lower portion of the bore in the closed position; and a sleeve disposed in the housing and movable between an open position where the flow port is exposed to the bore and a closed position where a wall of the sleeve is disposed between the flow port and the bore; and a bore valve actuator operably coupling the sleeve and the bore valve such that opening the sleeve closes the bore valve and closing the sleeve opens the bore valve. |
| US09353585B2 |
On-the-fly acid blender with sampling equipment
A method for blending a well treatment fluid at a well site is disclosed. A first centrifugal pump for pumping a first component of the well treatment fluid into a pipe and a first valve for controlling the flow of the first component are provided. Similarly, a second centrifugal pump for pumping a second component of the well treatment fluid into the pipe and a second valve for controlling the flow of the second component are provided. The pumps and the valves are controlled so as to control the ratio of the first component to the second component. A sampling device is provided for analyzing a fluid flowing in the pipe. The sampling device includes a sampling container; a soft seal that opens and closes the sampling container; and a valve spindle. The valve spindle moves the soft seal between the first position and the second position. |
| US09353582B2 |
Well drilling tubulars bin system, and method for use of system
A well drilling tubulars bin system comprises a well drilling tubulars bin and control device. The bin comprises a frame structure, and an elevator mechanism, for holding multiple layers of a plurality of well drilling tubulars. The elevator mechanism comprises a liftable support structure, and a left and right hydraulic cylinder. The support structure is liftable from a lower position to an upper position. The support structure is raised and lowered in a level manner, or with a tilt angle. The elevator mechanism comprises a first left lift arm and a first right lift arm. The first left and right lift arms are at a first end rotatably connected to the support structure, and at a second end opposite from the first end rotatably connected to the frame structure. The left and right hydraulic cylinders are connected to the respective lift arms for rotating the respective lift arm. |
| US09353580B2 |
Pipe mat and method for using same for collecting fluids draining from drill pipe
A pipe mat is provided for use with a tubing tray for receiving, organizing and storing drill pipe tripped out of a drill string on a drilling rig, the pipe mat having a plurality of substantially parallel and spaced-apart support rails to form a plurality of drain channels disposed between adjacent pair of support rails, a plurality of substantially parallel and spaced-apart nub rails disposed on the plurality of support rails, the nub rails substantially orthogonal to the support rails thereby form a lattice structure having openings disposed between the nub rails that are in communication with the drain channels, and a plurality of spaced-apart pipe nubs extending upwardly from the nub rails, which are configured to hold a drill pipe in place when an end of the drill pipe is placed onto one of the pipe nubs. |
| US09353579B2 |
Buoyancy compensating element and method
A buoyancy compensating element for connection to a flexible pipe and method of producing a buoyancy compensating element are disclosed. The buoyancy compensating element includes a first body portion and a further body portion, wherein the first and further body portion are configured to be connectable to each other and in use to encompass a portion of flexible pipe. |
| US09353577B2 |
Minimizing stick-slip while drilling
According to the invention, a method for designing a rotary drill bit for drilling a cavity in a medium is disclosed. The method may include determining a characteristic of a drillstring with which the rotary drill bit is coupled. The method may also include determining an initial number of groups of cutters for the rotary drill bit, where each group of cutters includes a plurality of cutters substantially aligned along a different radius of the drilling face. The method may moreover include determining a characteristic of the medium relative to a characteristic of the cutters. The method may additionally include determining a characteristic of a rotational motion source used to rotate the rotary drill bit. The method may further include determining the angles of pitch between each of the groups of cutters to minimize an amount of sticking or slipping of the bit in the medium during a drilling operation. |
| US09353575B2 |
Hybrid drill bits having increased drilling efficiency
An earth boring drill bit is described, the bit having a bit body having a central longitudinal axis that defines an axial center of the bit body and configured at its upper extent for connection into a drillstring; at least one primary fixed blade extending downwardly from the bit body and inwardly toward, but not proximate to, the central axis of the drill bit; at least one secondary fixed blade extending radially outward from proximate the central axis of the drill bit; a plurality of fixed cutting elements secured to the primary and secondary fixed blades; at least one bit leg secured to the bit body; and a rolling cutter mounted for rotation on the bit leg; wherein the fixed cutting elements on at least one fixed blade extend from the center of the bit outward toward the gage of the bit but do not include a gage cutting region, and wherein at least one roller cone cutter portion extends from substantially the drill bit's gage region inwardly toward the center of the bit, the apex of the roller cone cutter being proximate to the terminal end of the at least one secondary fixed blade, but does not extend to the center of the bit. |
| US09353574B2 |
Aligned angled well tool weld joint
A well tool can include multiple sections, one section having a mating weld surface formed thereon, and another section having another mating weld surface formed thereon. Engagement between the mating weld surfaces can prevent lateral displacement of the well tool sections relative to each other. The mating weld surfaces are welded to each other. A method of constructing a well tool can include engaging a mating weld surface on a section of the well tool with another mating weld surface on another section of the well tool, an interface between the mating weld surfaces being inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the well tool extending through the sections, and welding the mating weld surfaces to each other along the interface. |
| US09353573B2 |
Drilling unit operator station
A horizontal directional drilling system with a removable operator station having a frame, a carriage, a base, and a removable cab. The carriage is moveable relative to the frame to provide thrust and rotation to a drill string. The base is located on the frame and has an attachment point and a fitting. The removable cab has a control system for controlling functions of the carriage and the frame and a bracket moveable between a first position and a second position. The bracket is connectable to the attachment point. The cab is moveable relative to the base when the bracket is disconnected from the attachment. |
| US09353571B2 |
Paint can securing apparatus for use with a ladder
A paint can support box adapted to surround and selectively seal a paint can. A hinged top with a seal is affixed to the box and is movable between an open and a closed position. A mounting system attaches the box to rungs of a ladder. A retaining pin prevents the mounting system from inadvertently becoming detached from the ladder rungs. The box is swivelably attached to the mounting system so that the box remains level regardless of the lean angle of the ladder. The box and its contents may be left on the ladder when the ladder is moved to a new location without risk of paint spilling or the apparatus becoming detached from the ladder. Caulk tubes may also be stored and retained within the box. Multiple size paint cans (e.g. gallon, quart, etc.) may be securely accommodated and sealed with appropriate can adapters. |
| US09353567B2 |
Press fit storm window system
A system for mounting a secondary panel within a window frame of an existing window. The system includes a rigid panel, an elongated deformable bulb, and an elongated carrier. The bulb has a resilient, rounded portion and a base section with at least one tongue extending from the base section. The carrier is configured to receive at least a portion of an edge of the panel within a panel gap and to receive, between opposing resilient prongs, the tongue of the bulb. The resilient prongs are configured to diverge to allow a distal end of the tongue to pass between the resilient prongs. Also disclosed is a system for mounting a flexible sheet within a window frame of an existing window. |
| US09353559B2 |
Latching system for securing two components
A latching system for selectively securing together two components, such as the fan cowl doors of a nacelle of an aircraft, closed. The latching system generally includes an anchor and a latch. The latch has a handle movable from an open and a closed position. The handle is precluded from reaching the closed position unless the anchor and latch are secured. Also, the positioning of a keeper portion of the anchor may be adjustable. |
| US09353556B2 |
Electrical vehicle latch
An electrical vehicle latch including a support assembly, a releasable closure mechanism carried by the support assembly and adapted to releasably engage a striker, an electrically-operated actuator assembly carried by the support assembly and which can be selectively activated to release the closure mechanism from the striker or to lock the closure mechanism in a condition of engagement with the striker, and an electrical control unit having a printed circuit board for controlling operation of the actuator assembly. The support assembly including a first support body carrying at least a ratchet of the closure mechanism in a position parallel to a first plane (P1), and a second support body carrying at least the printed circuit board in a position parallel to a second plane (P2) transvere to the first plane (P1). |
| US09353555B2 |
Method of fabricating potted panel latch system
A method of preparing a finished panel and latch combination, wherein the panel and latch mounting combination are seamless and attractive. |
| US09353553B2 |
Image forming apparatus with locking drawer unit
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit configured to form an image; a drawer unit configured to be pulled out from a body of the image forming apparatus; a first lock unit configured to receive power from a power supply and perform at least one of lock and unlock of the drawer unit with respect to the body; and a second lock unit configured to perform lock and unlock of the drawer unit with respect to the body by a mechanical operation performed by an operator. |
| US09353551B2 |
Wireless door locking system
A wireless door locking system is provided. The system includes a door lock having a locking device, a sensor and a microcontroller. The system also includes a mobile computing device having a display and a mobile application, wherein the mobile computing device is placed proximate to the door lock. The system includes a server in communication with the mobile computing device. The mobile application may generate a code such as a light pattern in response to communication with the server and transmits the light pattern from the display. The microcontroller of the door lock disengages the locking device in response to the sensor receiving the generated code communicated from the mobile computing device and determining that the generated code includes correct data to disengage the locking device of the door lock. |
| US09353545B2 |
Portable enclosure apparatus and method
A portable enclosure quick exchange framing system having a plurality of adjustable securing elements and a fence operable to be secured to the securing elements. The securing elements are operable to be anchored in the ground or a support base. The portable enclosure system is easily configurable to fit in any yard or area. |
| US09353543B2 |
Efficient layout and design of production facility
Methods for manufacturing a product or pharmaceutical product in an improved production layout are disclosed. The layout includes a production area which includes a hub which is at least partially surrounded by a manufacturing area. The manufacturing area comprises production stages used in the manufacturing process. The hub, having direct line-of-sight to the production stages, can easily monitor the manufacturing process. |
| US09353538B1 |
Stiffening strut for garage door panels
A stiffening strut to be used in conjunction with a rear surface of a garage door panel having a given width-wise length, formed in a generally U-shaped body. First and second sidewalls each with a bottom side edge and a top side edge, a front edge and a rear edge, the bottom side edge extends to first lengthwise mounting sleeve having an interior edge aligned with said bottom side edge, the first mounting sleeve having an outer edge parallel to the inner edge, the first lengthwise mounting sleeve having a given width, the first lengthwise mounting sleeve having a multiplicity of spaced apart openings by which fastening means affix the stiffening strut to the top of a garage door panel. |
| US09353535B2 |
Space saving anchor point for a concrete structure
A space saving anchor point for a concrete deck or column. The anchor point includes an elongated receiver box attached to the inside surface of a form used to construct a concrete structure that becomes embedded the concrete deck. The elongated box is a partially enclosed structure with a lower opening that communicates with an interior cavity. The elongated box includes optional flange surfaces that attached to the inside surface of a form used to construct the concrete deck. Extending transversely through the interior cavity is a rod with its opposite ends that extend laterally from the sides of the elongated box and become covered with concrete. Attached to the portion of the rod located inside the interior cavity is an elongated connector plate. The connector plate is assembled on the rod and is configured to rotate around the rod and move longitudinally inward inside the interior cavity to hidden position or moved outward from the interior cavity partially exposing the plates' second opening. The second opening may connect to a suitable snap hook or clip used by a construction worker when working near a leading edge fall hazard. |
| US09353534B2 |
Deck drainage systems
A deck drainage system includes a first bracket. The first bracket has an elongate axis and a transverse axis substantially transverse to the elongate axis. A leg extends along the transverse axis. A first arm extends from the bracket, as does a second arm, where the second arm is substantially parallel to the first arm. |
| US09353533B2 |
Deck system components
A decking system is made up of a variety of decking boards and other components are disclosed. In some aspects, the decking boards are connectable to each other so that adjacent boards will provide a water barrier and a drainage channel. Some versions of the boards may have a hollow region to accept the provision of heating elements or other accessory structures. A connector piece is disclosed in various embodiments span the gap between the butt ends of the boards to provide a water barrier at the butt ends of the boards. A gutter and downspout system is disclosed, as well as structures for protecting the ends or sides of the deck structure. |
| US09353525B1 |
Semi-rigid connections for braced frames
A structural framework that includes a column, a beam, a brace beam coupled at an angle to the column and the beam, and a gusset plate to connect the brace beam with the column and the beam. The framework also includes a shear plate with horizontally slotted holes to couple to the column to the beam. The structural framework may also include double framing angles or a flex plate coupled to the gusset plate and to the beam via spacer plates to provide for a semi-rigid connection. |
| US09353516B2 |
All-season non-condensing building insulation system
An exterior wall is kept free of moisture condensation in both heating and cooling seasons by four one-way valves that utilize pressure differentials of a chimney effect to ventilate the insulating cavity with air from the drier colder side, while maintaining a vapor barrier on the more humid warmer side. |
| US09353514B1 |
Building configuration and management system with reconfigurable building components
Methods, systems, and techniques for building, maintaining, and/or renovating buildings using reconfigurable, intelligent, and/or communicating components and connectors are provided. These reconfigurable building components and connectors are configured to communicate with each other and with the internal structures and services of a building, using various protocols, for more efficient reconfiguration, management, and maintenance as well as safety. Examples provide a Building Configuration and Management System which provides a set of “smart” components, connectors, and protocols and a Building Control System that connects all internal building structures and services together in ways that allow them to communicate their location, state, and other information to each other and to other entities and to control them, potentially automatically. The BCMS facilitates, among other things, more efficient reconfiguration of these structures and services without demolition. |
| US09353512B2 |
High performance toilet with rim-jet control capable of enhanced operation at reduced flush volumes
A siphonic, gravity-powered toilet bowl assembly having a toilet bowl, which includes a bowl inlet in fluid communication with a source of fluid; a rim around an upper perimeter of the bowl defining a rim channel, having an inlet port in fluid communication with the bowl inlet and at least one outlet port; a bowl outlet in fluid communication with a sewage outlet; a direct-fed jet having an inlet port in fluid communication with the bowl inlet for receiving fluid and the bowl outlet for discharging fluid; and a control unit arranged in communication with the bowl inlet for controlling flow from the source of fluid passing through the bowl inlet into the inlet ports of the rim channel and the direct-fed jet, having a first extending rear portion and a second rim channel end portion, wherein the rear portion may extend at least partially into the bowl inlet. |
| US09353510B2 |
Vapor pressure lowering agent for seal water in drain trap, method for preventing seal breakage in drain trap by using vapor pressure lowering agent for seal water in drain trap, antifreezing agent for water, and method for preventing seal breakage in drain trap by using antifreezing agent for water
A water vapor pressure lowering agent which is safe, is easily mixed with seal water, and is usable even in a cold region; the water vapor pressure lowering agent includes urea, a surfactant, purified glycerol, and water or alkaline reducing water, and the purified glycerol is obtained by purifying waste glycerol containing ethanol, an oil or fat, water, and a carbide by distillation. In a method for preventing seal breakage in a drain trap (T) by using the water vapor pressure lowering agent, the vapor pressure lowering agent is introduced such that a liquid level is equal to or higher than a seal water maintenance lower limit in a seal water portion of the drain trap (T). |
| US09353508B2 |
Faucet-door for a sink or countertop
The present invention relates to a faucet-door for coupling to kitchen sinks or countertops primarily, although it can also be coupled to bathroom sinks, basins, etc. The object of the invention consists of combining a faucet and a door in a single element, with the particularity that the pivot shafts of the faucet-door are hollow, defining the hot water connection and cold water connection, faucet-door in the central core of which ducts are defined for hot water and cold water passage which open into a main casing established on the inner face of said central core, being of little thickness, for being re-conducted towards a diffuser that can be folded away on said casing, the ducts being associated with the corresponding flow rate-regulating means. |
| US09353490B2 |
Roller plow assembly for concrete screeding machine
A screeding machine for screeding an uncured concrete surface includes a wheeled unit having a plurality of wheels for moving the wheeled unit over a support surface. A screed head assembly includes a grade setting device and a vibrating member and is movable over the concrete area via the wheeled unit. The screeding machine includes a roller that is rotatably mounted at the screed head assembly and rotatably driven about its longitudinal axis. The roller is rotatably driven by a rotatable drive motor that is operable independently of the vibrating member or grade setting device. The grade setting device or roller plow assembly may be provided as an aftermarket kit for attachment at a screed head assembly of a screeding machine. |
| US09353485B2 |
Vehicle pick-up and delivery device and track-based transportation system provided therewith
A vehicle pick-up and delivery device includes: two mainline tracks including a pair of first guide portions which guide a pair of first guide wheels provided on a vehicle on an outer side of each of the first guide wheels; a pick-up and delivery travel path on which the vehicle is capable of traveling and which is provided between the two mainline tracks and is configured to pick up and deliver the vehicle between the two mainline tracks; a second guide portion which is provided inside the pick-up and delivery travel path and guides a second guide wheel disposed below the vehicle; and a switching unit which is provided on the mainline tracks and is capable of switching a direction of the vehicle between a direction along the mainline tracks and a direction along the pick-up and delivery travel path. |
| US09353481B2 |
Method and apparatus for forming a fibrous media
Embodiments for methods and apparatuses for forming a nonwoven web are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes one or more sources configured to dispense a first fluid flow stream comprising a fiber and a second fluid flow stream also comprising a fiber. The apparatus also includes a mixing partition downstream from the one or more sources, where the mixing partition is positioned between the first and second flow streams from the one or more sources. The mixing partition defines one or more openings that permit fluid communication between the two flow streams. The apparatus also includes a receiving region situated downstream from the one or more sources and designed to receive at least a combined flow stream and form a nonwoven web by collecting fiber from the combined flow stream. |
| US09353478B2 |
Biomass treatment for hydrothermal hydrocatalytic conversion
A selective removal of chlorine and phosphorus that are detrimental to subsequent hydrothermal hydrocatalytic conversion from the biomass feed prior to carrying out catalytic hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis/hydrodeoxygenation of the biomass in a manner that does not reduce the effectiveness of the hydrothermal hydrocatalytic treatment while minimizing the amount of water used in the process is provided. |
| US09353473B2 |
Laundry treating apparatus with moving hanger bar
A laundry treating apparatus is disclosed. The laundry treating apparatus (100) includes a treating chamber (110) to accommodate laundry; a supply device (120) to supply at least one of heated air and steam to the treating chamber (110); a hanger bar (150) provided in the treating chamber; and a driving part (113) to generate a rotational force, wherein the hanger bar (150) comprises a hanger groove (151) having a hanger (200) hung thereon and the hanger groove (151) is configured of plural steps having different widths (W1, W2), respectively. |
| US09353466B2 |
Hybrid power transmission cord
A heat-treated cord comprising a low modulus yarn core that is wrapped by a plurality of high modulus wrapping yarns that were heat-treated for a time at a temperature and under a load sufficient to provide a free shrinkage of at least 2½ percent and a shrinkage force of at least 3 pounds. |
| US09353464B2 |
Spinning machine having a compaction device
A device for compacting a fiber composite on a spinning machine includes consecutive drafting arrangement roller pairs. A compaction unit is pivotably mounted on the machine frame downstream of the delivery roller pairs with a pivot axis parallel to the rotational axes of the delivery roller pair, and includes a support with a suction drum rotatably supported on the support. At the end of a suction zone of the drum, a nip roller is fastened to the support to form a nip line. The support is spring-loaded to form a drive connection between the lower roller of the delivery roller pair and the suction drum, wherein the suction drum is moved against the lower roller. Guide means fix the compaction unit in position as mounted on the machine frame, and the spring element is mounted on the free end of the pressure lever. |
| US09353460B2 |
Method for forming metal structures
A method of forming a metal structure. The method comprises providing a dispersion of metal nanoparticles and a solution comprising a transient polymer and solvent. The dispersion of metal nanoparticles and the solution are formed by coaxially electrospinning into a fiber comprising the metal nanoparticles and the transient polymer. The fiber is heated to decompose the transient polymer and form a metallic structure. |
| US09353452B2 |
Method of separating and recovering metals and system for separating and recovering metals
According to one embodiment, a method of separating and recovering metals whereby a mixture containing at least a first metal and a second metal, the second metal having a higher standard electrode potential than that of the first metal, is connected to an anode in a molten salt, and the first metal and the second metal are precipitated on a cathode in the molten salt by electrolysis, the method of separating and recovering metals comprising: a detection step of detecting a concentration change in each of a first metal ion and a second metal ion in the molten salt by a concentration change detection unit; a first electrolysis step of electrolyzing the first metal; a first recovery step of recovering a precipitated substance according to a detection in which a concentration decrease of the first metal ion, which is predefined in the concentration change detection unit, is detected in the detection step; a second electrolysis step of electrolyzing the second metal; and a second recovery step of recovering a precipitated substance subsequent to the first recovery step. |
| US09353445B2 |
Methods for thick films thermoelectric device fabrication
Solid state thermoelectric energy conversion devices can provide electrical energy from heat flow, creating energy, or inversely, provide cooling through applying energy. Thick film methods are applied to fabricate thermoelectric device structures using microstructures formed through deposition and subsequent thermal processing conditions. An advantageous coincidence of material properties makes possible a wide variety of unique microstructures that are easily applied for the fabrication of device structures in general. As an example, a direct bond process is applied to fabricate thermoelectric semiconductor thick films on substrates by printing and subsequent thermal processing to form unique microstructures which can be densified. Bismuth and antimony telluride are directly bonded to flexible nickel substrates. |
| US09353442B2 |
Apparatus for forming silicon-containing thin film
Provided is an apparatus for forming a silicon-containing thin film, the apparatus including a controller which is configured to control a process gas supplying mechanism, a heating device, and an exhauster to perform: forming a first seed layer on a base by adsorbing at least silicon included in an aminosilane-based gas on the base, using the aminosilane-based gas; forming a second seed layer on the first seed layer by depositing at least silicon included in a higher-order silane-based gas having an order that is equal to or higher than disilane, using the higher-order silane-based gas having an order that is equal to or higher than the disilane, wherein the first seed layer and the second seed layer form a dual seed layer; and forming the silicon-containing thin film on the dual seed layer. |
| US09353437B2 |
Diazadiene-based metal compound, method for preparing same and method for forming a thin film using same
The present invention relates to a diazadiene (DAD)-based metal compound, to a method for preparing the same and to a method for forming a thin film using the same. The diazadiene (DAD)-based metal compound of the present invention is provided in a gaseous state to be formed into a metal thin film or a metal oxide thin film by chemical vapor deposition or atomic layer deposition. Particularly, the diazadiene-based organic metal compound of the present invention has advantages in that it may be formed into a metal thin film or a metal oxide thin film and it can be prepared in a relatively inexpensive way without using highly toxic ligands. |
| US09353435B2 |
Stabilizing laser energy density on a target during pulsed laser deposition of thin films
A process for stabilizing laser energy density on a target surface during pulsed laser deposition of thin films controls the focused laser spot on the target. The process involves imaging an image-aperture positioned in the beamline. This eliminates changes in the beam dimensions of the laser. A continuously variable attenuator located in between the output of the laser and the imaged image-aperture adjusts the energy to a desired level by running the laser in a “constant voltage” mode. The process provides reproducibility and controllability for deposition of electronic thin films by pulsed laser deposition. |
| US09353433B2 |
Method of fabricating liquid for oxide thin film
A method of fabricating a liquid for an oxide thin film is provided, which includes mixing at least two kinds of dispersoids selected from the group consisting of a Zinc compound, an Indium compound, a Gallium compound, a Tin compound and a Thallium compound, with dispersion media corresponding to the selected dispersoids to form a dispersion system, and stirring and aging the dispersion system at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time, wherein a molar ratio of the Zinc compound to each of the Indium compound, Gallium compound, Tin compound and Thallium compound is 1:0.1 to 1:2. According to the present invention, the liquid for the oxide thin film may be fabricated by a sol-gel method making it capable of being implemented in mass production in a simple and low-cost manner as opposed to the conventional vacuum deposition method. |
| US09353432B2 |
Pure titanium sheet excellent in balance between stamping formability and strength
Disclosed is a pure titanium sheet having a strength corresponding to JIS Grade 2 level (215 MPa in terms of 0.2% yield strength) or more and having satisfactory stamping formability. The pure titanium sheet includes titanium and inevitable impurities, has a 0.2% yield strength of 215 MPa or more, has an average grain size d of its structure of 25 μm or more and 75 μm or less, and has a hexagonal crystal structure, in which respective grains in the hexagonal crystal structure have an average of Schmidt factors (SF) of (11-22) twins with a rolling direction as axes, and the average Schmidt factor (SF) and the average grain size d satisfy following Expression (1): 0.055≦[SF/√d]≦0.084 (1). |
| US09353430B2 |
Lightweight, crash-sensitive automotive component
The present invention provides a casting having increased crashworthiness including an an aluminum alloy of about 6.0 wt % to about 8.0 wt % Si; about 0.12 wt % to about 0.25 wt % Mg; less than or equal to about 0.35 wt % Cu; less than or equal to about 4.0 wt % Zn; less than or equal to about 0.6 wt % Mn; and less than or equal to about 0.15 wt % Fe, wherein the cast body is treated to a T5 or T6 temper and has a tensile strength ranging from 100 MPa to 180 MPa and has a critical fracture strain greater than 10%. The present invention further provides a method of forming a casting having increased crashworthiness. |
| US09353429B2 |
Aluminum alloy material for use in thermal conduction application
An aluminum alloy material for use in thermal conduction to which improved castability has been imparted by silicon addition. It has improved thermal conductivity and improved strength. The material has a composition containing 7.5-12.5 mass % Si and 0.1-2.0 mass % Cu, the remainder being Al and unavoidable impurities, wherein the amount of copper in the state of a solid solution in the matrix phase is regulated to 0.3 mass % or smaller. The composition may further contain at least 0.3 mass % Fe and/or at least 0.1 mass % Mg, provided that the sum of (Fe content) and (content of Mg among the impurities)×2 is 1.0 mass % or smaller and the sum of (Cu content), (content of Mg among the impurities)×2.5, and (content of Zn among the impurities) is 2.0 mass % or smaller. |
| US09353428B2 |
Zirconium based bulk metallic glasses with hafnium
Various embodiments of zirconium based bulk metallic glass with hafnium are described herein. In one embodiment, an alloy composition includes zirconium (Zr), hafnium (Hf), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), at least one element from a group consisting of niobium (Nb) and titanium (Ti), and at least one element from a group consisting of nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), and cobalt (Co). |
| US09353427B2 |
Ni-based alloy, and gas turbine rotor blade and stator blade each using same
This invention provides an Ni-based alloy, which is particularly used for standard casting and is provided with properties such as strength at high temperatures, corrosion resistivity, and oxidation resistivity in a more balanced manner, compared with existing materials. The Ni-based alloy comprises Cr, Co, Al, Ti, Ta, W, Mo, Nb, C, B, and unavoidable impurities, with the balance consisting of Ni. Composition of the alloy is represented by mass: 13.1% to 15.0% Cr, 1.0% to 15.0% Co, 2.3% to 3.3% Al, 4.55% to 6.0% Ti, 3.05% to 4.0% Ta, 4.35% to 4.9% W, 0.1% to 2.0% Mo, 0.05% to 0.5% Nb, less than 0.05% Zr, 0.05% to 0.2% C, and 0.01% to 0.03% B. |
| US09353425B2 |
Processes for preparing alumina and magnesium chloride by HCl leaching of various materials
The disclosed processes can be effective for treating various materials comprising several different metals. These materials can be leached with HCl for obtaining a leachate and a solid. Then, they can be separated from one another and a first metal can be isolated from the leachate. Then, a second metal can further be isolated from the leachate. The first and second metals can each be substantially selectively isolated from the leachate. This can be done by controlling the temperature of the leachate, adjusting pH, further reacting the leachate with HCl, etc. The metals that can be recovered in the form of metal chlorides can eventually be converted into the corresponding metal oxides, thereby allowing for recovering HCl. The various metals can be chosen from aluminum, iron, zinc, copper, gold, silver, molybdenum, cobalt, magnesium, lithium, manganese, nickel, palladium, platinum, thorium, phosphorus, uranium, titanium, rare earth element and rare metals. |
| US09353421B2 |
Aptamers that are specific for immunoglobulin-binding cell wall proteins
The invention relates to an aptamer that binds to protein A, G or L, protein A-, G- or L-containing substances, and also to protein A-, G- or L-containing microorganisms, in particular Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus or Peptostreptococcus, methods for detection and enrichment of protein A, G or L, protein A-, G- or L-containing substances or protein A-, G- or L-containing microorganisms in which the aptamer is used, and also a kit, a biosensor, a lateral flow assay device and a measuring instrument which contain such an aptamer and can be used in said methods. |
| US09353416B2 |
Gene relating to estimation of postoperative prognosis for breast cancer
It is intended to provide a system of predicting the postoperative prognosis in a patient with breast cancer from the viewpoint of gene expression based on the data obtained by genome-wide and comprehensive analysis on gene expression in breast cancer. Expression of human genes is comprehensively analyzed by using a DNA microarray and gene expression functions in various breast cancer conditions are compared, thereby establishing a system of predicting the postoperative prognosis of breast cancer. |
| US09353414B2 |
Noninvasive diagnosis of fetal aneuploidy by sequencing
Disclosed is a method to achieve digital quantification of DNA (i.e., counting differences between identical sequences) using direct shotgun sequencing followed by mapping to the chromosome of origin and enumeration of fragments per chromosome. The preferred method uses massively parallel sequencing, which can produce tens of millions of short sequence tags in a single run and enabling a sampling that can be statistically evaluated. By counting the number of sequence tags mapped to a predefined window in each chromosome, the over- or under-representation of any chromosome in maternal plasma DNA contributed by an aneuploid fetus can be detected. This method does not require the differentiation of fetal versus maternal DNA. The median count of autosomal values is used as a normalization constant to account for differences in total number of sequence tags is used for comparison between samples and between chromosomes. |
| US09353413B2 |
Internal reference genes for microRNAs normalization and uses thereof
Disclosed are standardized reference genes for microRNAs and the use thereof. The reference gene is microRNA let-7d, let-7g, let-7i or a combination thereof. The reference genes have extremely high stability and accuracy compared to the currently most commonly used reference genes in microRNA quantitation. |
| US09353406B2 |
Universal probe assay methods
Reagents and methods are provided for detecting the presence of a target polynucleotide in a sample are disclosed. In one aspect, a method for producing a labeled amplification product by amplifying a target nucleic acid sequence to produce an amplification product comprising the target sequence, a first probe-binding sequence 5′ to the target sequence, and a second probe-binding sequence 3′ to the target sequence, thereby producing an amplification product; and hybridizing a first detection probe to the amplification product, the first detection probe comprising a first segment that hybridizes to the first probe-binding sequence and a second segment that hybridizes to the second probe-binding sequence, thereby producing a labeled amplification product is disclosed. |
| US09353405B2 |
Optimized real time nucleic acid detection processes
This invention provides for compositions for use in real time nucleic acid detection processes. Such real time nucleic acid detection processes are carried out with energy transfer elements attached to nucleic acid primers, nucleotides, nucleic acid probes or nucleic acid binding agents. Real time nucleic acid detection allows for the qualitative or quantitative detection or determination of single-stranded or double-stranded nucleic acids of interest in a sample. Other processes are provided by this invention including processes for removing a portion of a homopolymeric sequence, e.g., poly A sequence or tail, from an analyte or library of analytes. Compositions useful in carrying out such removal processes are also described and provided. Paneling and multiplex analyzes of more than one nucleic acid analyte using one sample are also provided. |
| US09353402B2 |
DNA polymerases with increased 3′-mismatch discrimination
Disclosed are mutant DNA polymerases having increased 3′-mismatch discrimination relative to a corresponding, unmodified polymerase. The mutant polymerases are useful in a variety of disclosed primer extension methods. Also disclosed are related compositions, including recombinant nucleic acids, vectors, and host cells, which are useful, e.g., for production of the mutant DNA polymerases. |
| US09353401B2 |
Multiplex assays with multiple luciferases reporters and uses thereof
The present invention encompasses modified luciferases, methods for making modified luciferases, and assays utilizing modified luciferases. Modified luciferases of the invention show increased activity over wildtype luciferases and also show increased stability of signal. The present invention also encompasses multiplex assays utilizing multiple luciferases reporters with different emission spectra and different substrates for simultaneous luciferase measurements. |
| US09353399B2 |
Two-photon absorbing compound with methods of synthesis and use
Disclosed is a compound which is a two-photon absorbing fluorescent substance, a production method for the compound, a fluorescence sensor and molecular probe able to sense various substrates or enzyme activity or the like using the same, and a method of sensing enzyme activity or the like using the same. The disclosed compound can be used as a fluorescence sensor, and can be used in the study and treatment of diseases in which MAO enzymes are involved such as mood disorders using MAO enzyme activity and inhibitor screening. |
| US09353398B2 |
Method for isolating a sample well of a test card for analysis, and resulting test card
The invention relates to a method for isolating at least one fluid sample well laid out in a test card for analysis, said test card including a plate (3) having at least one first main face from which is laid out at least one channel communicating with at least said well, this first face being coated with a membrane (17) provided with an adhesive (18) and which will cover said channel with a covering area (171), the method for isolation including a phase for introducing a fluid sample into at least said well and a phase for isolating said well consisting of exerting a force on at least one portion of the covering area (171) of the adhesive membrane (17) for ensuring displacement of the adhesive into an obturation area for the sample well. |
| US09353391B2 |
Compositions comprising a polypeptide having cellulolytic enhancing activity and a nitrogen-containing compound and uses thereof
The present invention relates to compositions comprising: a polypeptide having cellulolytic enhancing activity and a nitrogen-containing compound. The present invention also relates to methods of using the compositions. |
| US09353390B2 |
Genetically engineered microbes and methods for producing 4-hydroxycoumarin
Provided herein are methods for the biosynthesis of 4-hydroxycoumarin. In one embodiment, provided herein are genetically engineered microbes that include a metabolic pathway for the production of 4-hydroxycoumarin. Also provided are methods for using the genetically engineered microbes to produce 4-hydroxycoumarin, and using the 4-hydroxycoumarin as the starting point for the synthesis of other compounds. |
| US09353386B2 |
Means and methods for producing propanediol
The present invention relates to a host cell having an elevated expression or activity of an enzyme as compared with the parent cell from which it has been derived, said enzyme having lactoyl-CoA reductase activity. Furthermore, provided is a method of producing lactaldehyde and/or 1,2-propanediol, said method comprising culturing said host cell and/or utilizing said enzyme to produce said compound. |
| US09353384B2 |
Organic-inorganic nanoflowers, their synthesis and use
Organic-inorganic nanoflowers, methods of synthesis, and uses of the nanoflowers are described. It has been found that organic-inorganic nanoflowers can be grown in the presence of a solid substrate containing copper without the requirement for added copper ion. The method includes exposing bacteria to a solid substrate containing copper in the presence of an aqueous solution that contains phosphate ions. The aqueous solution can additionally contain chloride ions, similar to that of a phosphate-buffered saline composition. The solid substrate can be an alloy of copper and tin, and the substrate can have phosphorus incorporated into it. |
| US09353383B2 |
Vivo and ex vivo gene transfer into renal tissue using gutless adenovirus vectors
A method for treating a renal disease in a subject is disclosed. The method includes administering into a kidney of the subject with an effective amount of a gutless adenoviral vector containing a polynucleotide encoding a therapeutic agent. The gutless adenoviral vector contains the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO:13 or SEQ ID NO:15 and expresses the therapeutic agent in a kidney tissue of the subject. |
| US09353380B2 |
BRTCP24 gene useful for controlling growth of cabbage and application thereof
A BrTCP24 gene for controlling the growth of Chinese cabbage and its applications. The BrTCP24 gene has the nucleotide sequence shown in SEQ ID No. 1, the whole length of which is 1221 bp. The gene is useful for improving the production of economic crop. As indicated by experimental results, the gene serves as a controlling gene for plant growth and has the function of down-regulating the plant growth. Through overexpressing the gene, a transgenic plant smaller than the wild one can be obtained. The gene of the invention can provide theory basis and gene source for breeding new varieties of crops. |
| US09353379B2 |
Method for cultivation of genetically-modified plant
The present invention provides a method for cultivation of a genetically-modified plant that can highly produce a desired protein. More specifically, the present invention provides a method for cultivation of a genetically-modified plant comprising: cultivating the genetically-modified plant in a medium, wherein the genetically-modified plant is transformed by introducing an expression vector comprising a promoter regulating expression of RNA and a seed storage protein isolated from a plant that highly expresses RNA and the seed storage protein under a high nitrogen condition; and a polynucleotide encoding an objective protein, and wherein the medium is adjusted so that nitrate nitrogen is 70 mg/L to 750 mg/L and/or ammonium nitrogen is 70 mg/L to 750 mg/L for a definite period in a period from 30 days before an expected flowering date to a date on or before flowering of the genetically-modified plant. |
| US09353375B2 |
Compositions and methods of PGL for the increased production of isoprene
Provided herein are improved compositions and methods for the increased production of isoprene. Also provided herein are improved compositions and methods for the increased production of heterologous polypeptides capable of biological activity. |
| US09353369B2 |
Biologically active molecules for influencing virus-, bacteria-, parasite-infected cells and/or tumor cells and method for the use thereof
The aim of the invention is to effectively inhibit virus-, bacteria-, or parasite-infected cells and tumor cells in a targeted manner, even in the case of mutations. According to the invention, biologically active molecules are administered, said biologically active molecules including at least one protease inhibitor for at least one specific target protease of the virus-, bacteria-, or parasite-infected cells and/or tumor cells and at least one peptide-inhibited siRNA, PNA or RNA, the peptide bond of which is broken by the at least one target protease for the purpose of activating the peptide-inhibited siRNA, PNA or RNA. The molecules are used, for example, to influence the gene expression of diseased and infected organs or cells. |
| US09353368B2 |
Micro-RNA scaffolds and non-naturally occurring micro-RNAs
The present disclosure provides a non-naturally occurring miRNA having a stem-loop structure comprising a scaffold derived from a first endogenous miRNA (e.g., miR-196a-2 or miR-204), a mature strand derived from a second endogenous miRNA, and a star strand sequence that is at least partially complementary to the mature strand sequence. The present disclosure also provides a non-naturally occurring miRNA having a stem-loop structure comprising a scaffold derived from an endogenous miRNA (e.g., miR-196a-2 or miR-204), a mature strand designed t be at least partially complementary to a target RNA, and a star strand sequence that is at least partially complementary to the mature strand sequence. The methods and compositions of the disclosure may be used to mediate gene silencing via the RNAi pathway. |
| US09353367B2 |
Non-leachable magnetic cross-linked enzyme aggregate
A non-leachable, crosslinked, on a nanometer scale formed magnetic enzyme aggregate, consisting of a non-layered, hybrid nano-composite of functionalized magnetic nanoparticles and aggregated enzyme particles, is described. The magnetic enzyme aggregate can have a high enzyme content, of up to 99%. The high enzyme content allows the use on a small scale, such as for example in a fluidized bed, of the magnetic enzyme aggregate. Also, a process for the preparation of the present magnetic enzyme aggregate is described. |
| US09353365B2 |
Factor VII or VIIa polypeptide variants
The present invention relates to novel polypeptide variants of factor VII (FVII) or factor VIIa (FVIIa) polypeptides, where said variants comprise an amino acid substitution in position 10 and 32 and where said variants further comprise a sugar moiety covalently attached to an introduced in vivo N-glycosylation site located outside of the Gla domain. Such polypeptide variants are useful in therapy, in particular for the treatment of a variety of coagulation-related disorders, such as trauma. |
| US09353363B2 |
Glycoside hydrolases from thermophilic fungi
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having cellulolytic activity or hemicellulolytic activity and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09353362B2 |
Glucoamylase variants and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to glucoamylase variants having improved thermostability. The present invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the variants; nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides; and methods of using the variants. |
| US09353357B2 |
Polypeptides having phytase activity and the encoding nucleic acids
The invention relates to a recombinant DNA molecule encoding a polypeptide having phytase activity and increased temperature stability and increased proteolytic stability of the enzyme activity. The DNA sequence has been obtained by variation of the mature wild-type E. coli phytase sequence with defined amino acid positions being modified in comparison to the wild-type sequence or with the sequences having N- and/or C-terminal extensions, respectively. The invention further relates to a method for expressing the recombinant phytase as well as its use in the food and animal feed technologies. |
| US09353356B2 |
Activin-actriia antagonists for treating a follicle-stimulating horomone-secreting pituitary tumor
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for decreasing FSH levels in a patient. The patient may, for example, be diagnosed with an FSH-related disorder or desire to delay or inhibit germ cell maturation. |
| US09353355B2 |
Transaminase biocatalysts
The present disclosure relates to polypeptides having transaminase activity, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and methods of using the polypeptides. |
| US09353352B2 |
Embryonic stem cell specific microRNAs promote induced pluripotency
The methods of the present application describe that introduction of physiologically relevant miRNAs can enhance or modulate somatic cell reprogramming, generating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells). These miRNAs did not further enhance reprogramming in the presence of cMyc. Furthermore, unlike previously described methods of generating iPS cells, such as through the introduction of genetic elements using viruses, the methods of the present invention reduce the risk of activating oncogenes in the iPS cells. The methods of the invention generate iPS cells that can be free of genetic modifications and thus have greater potential for use as therapeutic agents than those generated by existing methods. |
| US09353350B2 |
Method for producing multipolar cell
This invention provides a multipolar cell including three or more centrosomes dispersed therein and a multipolar spindle formed so as to extend from the three or more respective centrosomes. The multipolar cell production method provided by the present invention supplies cultured eukaryotic cells with a synthetic peptide as a multipolarity-inducing peptide, with the synthetic peptide having an amino acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 1 to SEQ ID NO: 12 or an amino acid sequence formed by substituting, deleting and/or adding one, two or three amino acid residues in/from/to the selected amino acid sequence. |
| US09353349B2 |
Synthetic membrane anchors
Cells incorporating a synthetic molecule construct of the structure F—S1-S2-L where: F—S1 is an aminoalkylglycoside where F is a mono-, di-, tri- or oligo-saccharide and S1 is 2-aminoethyl, 3-aminopropyl, 4-aminobutyl, or 5-aminopentyl; S2 is —CO(CH2)2CO—, —CO(CH2)3CO—, —CO(CH2)4CO— or —CO(CH2)5CO—; and L is phosphatidylethanolamine. |
| US09353343B2 |
Cell culture and gradient migration assay methods and devices
A number of novel improved microfluidic configurations and systems and methods of manufacture and operation for a microfluidic invasion assay system. |
| US09353341B2 |
Flavoring composition and process for brewing malt beverages
An improved flavoring composition and process for brewing malt beverages is disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, the flavoring composition is formed from a high solids percent, room temperature stable, partially aqueous composition of a potassium salt of iso-α-acids. Such composition may be added to the wort kettle or else used as a post-fermentation additive, preferably after dilution with demineralized water. In another embodiment, the flavoring composition comprises a mixture containing reduced (rho-) iso-α-acids in alkali metal salts form, β-acids and hop oil. This latter composition is useful as a substitute for normal kettle extract, hops or hop pellets, allowing easy preparation of beer that resists formation of unpleasant, “skunky” flavors but has otherwise similar flavor and physical properties. |
| US09353338B2 |
White carbon black formulations and methods
Compositions, method, and devices are provided for cleaning surfaces, including glass and plastic surfaces. The compositions include white carbon black. The white carbon black can be combined with a binder to form a white carbon black formulation. The white carbon black formulation can be used to clean various glass and plastic surfaces, including transparent surfaces. |
| US09353337B2 |
Liquid cleaning composition
The present invention relates to a liquid, cleaning composition comprising colored abrasive cleaning particles. |
| US09353336B2 |
Intercalated bleach compositions, related methods of manufacture and use
The invention relates to compositions, methods of use, and methods of manufacture for an intercalated bleach compound and compositions thereof. The intercalated bleach compound has the formula Mx(OCl)y(O)m(OH)n where M is an alkaline earth metal such as magnesium, calcium or mixture thereof. The values of x and y independently equal any number greater than or equal to 1 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), and m and n independently equal any number greater than or equal to 0 (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), but m and n are not both 0. In addition, the molar ratio of the alkaline earth metal (e.g., magnesium or calcium) to hypochlorite is at least 3:1. In other words, x is ≧3y. The compounds exhibit excellent stability, little or no chlorine bleach odor, exhibit excellent pH buffering characteristics, and less reactivity with organic materials as compared to alternative chlorine bleach products. |
| US09353335B2 |
High alkaline warewash detergent with enhanced scale control and soil dispersion
Detergent compositions and methods of preparing and using the detergent compositions are disclosed. The detergent compositions comprise a polymer system comprising at least one polycarboxylic acid polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer, an alkalinity source comprising an alkali metal carbonate, a nonionic surfactant and water. The detergent compositions are suitable at alkaline pH and reduce or prevent scale formation, improve soil dispersion, and provide effective detergency. |
| US09353330B2 |
Marine engine lubrication
A trunk piston lubricating oil composition of TBN 20 to 60 comprising (A) a high saturates low sulphur oil of lubricating viscosity in a major amount; (B) an overbased metal hydroxybenzoate detergent additive; (C) a polyisobutene succinic anhydride additive (1-7 mass %); and (D) a meta-linear pentadecyl phenol additive (10.1 to 10 mass %), the weight ratio of (D) to (C) being less than 1 and the combined treat rate of (B), (C) and (D) being 5 to 30%. The composition is useful to improve asphaltene dispersancy when lubricating a medium-speed compression-ignited marine engine fueled by a heavy fuel oil. |
| US09353326B1 |
Synergistic fuel additives and fuels containing the additives
A fuel additive for a gasoline fuel composition, a gasoline fuel composition and a method for reducing wear in a gasoline delivery system of an engine. The fuel additive includes a synergistic mixture of (i) N,N-bis(hydroxyalkyl)-alkylamine, and (ii) an amide reaction product of a hydroxy acid, hydroxy ester, or lactone and an amine or ether amine, wherein a weight ratio of (i) to (ii) in the synergistic mixture ranges from about 1:5 to about 5:1. |
| US09353325B2 |
Process for modifying fuel solids
The invention provides a process for comminuting coal or other fuel solids in a shear field, and for optionally coating the solids with catalysts for combustion, liquefaction, and or gasification during the milling process. The process further provides for control of water content in the solids may be controlled before, during and after the milling in order to obtain micronized solids with fine hydration layers. The output fuel solids from the process can burn at low temperatures, avoiding emissions of nitrogen oxides, and they also have improved properties for surfactant-free suspension in either water or oil media, as well as for liquefaction and gasification. |
| US09353324B2 |
Coal-blended fuel, method for combusting the same, and coal fuel for use in coal-blended fuel
This mixed coal fuel is obtained by mixing a low-grade coal and residual coal. The residual coal is obtained by separating, through evaporation, a solvent from concentrated solids left over when a solution portion, which contains soluble coal components in solvent, is separated from a slurry obtained by mixing and heating coal and a solvent. Furthermore, the ratio (base/acid) of basic components to acidic components contained in ash of the residual coal is lower than that of the low-grade coal. |
| US09353321B2 |
Method and apparatus for reduction of tar in gasification of carbonaceous materials
A method and assembly for producing substantially tar free product gas from gasification of carbonaceous material. The assembly preferably includes a first stage gasifier to produce char-ash and tar laden product gas and a second stage gasifier which has a char-ash heating zone, at least one cyclone, and at least one standpipe for the purpose of allowing selective delivery of char-ash to the char-ash heating zone. A char-ash heating zone that utilizes oxidation of char-ash is preferred and this results in the heat required to convert tar, additional yield of product gas, and an oxidized, activated carbon surface to facilitate tar conversion in the riser, thereby reducing the temperature required to achieve the desired tar conversion. Alternatively, external heat is supplied to the heating zone. |
| US09353317B2 |
Hydrocarbon separation and analysis apparatus and methods
The inventive technology may involve, in particular embodiments, novel use of a non-porous, high surface energy stationary phase to adsorb, in reversible fashion, the most polar component of a resins fraction of an input hydrocarbon when a mobile phase is passed over the stationary phase. Such reversible adsorption prevents irreversibly adsorption of such components on active stationary phase(s) downflow of the non-porous, high surface energy stationary phase, thereby conserving stationary phase costs and increasing resolution of resins elutions, and accuracy of hydrocarbon component results. Aspects of the inventive technology may also involve a novel combination of a solubility based asphaltene component fractionating and analysis method and an adsorption chromatography method for separating and/or analyzing saturate, aromatics and resins components of an input hydrocarbon. |
| US09353316B2 |
Method and device for catalytic cracking
Provided is a method for catalytic cracking. The method comprises: a regenerated catalyst entering a pre-rising section (VIII) is mixed with raw oil and fed to a raw oil reaction area (I) for a catalytic cracking reaction; the catalyst and the oil-gas flow upwards into a catalyst-separating area (III) where part of the catalyst separates and flows into a stripping area for the catalyst to be regenerated (V, VII); the non-separated catalyst and the oil-gas together continue to flow upwards and are then mixed in an oil-gas repeat reaction area (II) with a regenerated catalyst entering into a supplementary catalyst distribution area (IV) and the oil-gas undergoes a repeat catalytic reaction; then the oil-gas and the catalyst in a riser reactor undergo gas-solid separation in a settler (VI), with the oil-gas entering a fractionating tower system via an oil-gas line, and the catalysts to be regenerated in the raw oil reaction area (I) and the oil-gas repeat reaction area (II) entering a regenerator (13), after being steam-stripped in the stripping area for the catalyst to be regenerated, in order to be reactivated. Also provided is a catalytic cracking device for use in the above-mentioned catalytic cracking method. |
| US09353314B2 |
Biomass feed system including gas assist
An improved biomass feed system and processes for transporting biomass to downstream processing locations are disclosed. The system uses a pressurized gas to assist in the transporting of the biomass to the conversion reactor. |
| US09353312B2 |
Polymerizable compound-containing liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device using the same
A polymerizable compound-containing liquid crystal composition of the present invention relates to a liquid crystal composition containing a polymerizable compound represented by general formula (I) and a compound represented by general formula (II) and can be used for a liquid crystal display device imparted with liquid crystal aligning ability by polymerization. The polymerizable liquid crystal composition is required to cause no precipitation in a wide temperature range and have a low viscosity corresponding to fast switching, and a liquid crystal display device using the composition is required to have more stable alignment after polymerization and to cause no defect in display characteristics. In the present invention, the problems can be solved using a specified compound. |
| US09353309B2 |
Method for treating a formation with a solvent
The present invention includes compositions and methods for treating a hydrocarbon-bearing formation by contacting the hydrocarbon-bearing formation with a fluid that includes at least one of a polyol or polyol ether, wherein the polyol and polyol ether independently have from 2 to 25 carbon atoms; and at least one of a monohydroxy alcohol, ether, or ketone, wherein the monohydroxy alcohol, ether, and ketone independently have from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and wherein the at least one of a polyol or polyol ether is present in the fluid at at least 50 weight percent, based on the total weight of the fluid. |
| US09353308B2 |
Modified cement composition, preparation and application thereof
Light to ultra-light cement compositions with modified rheological properties. The cement composition includes cement, hydrophobic nano-silica, at least one additive and a sufficient amount of water to make a cement slurry with high compressive strength, low porosity, low free water, and low fluid loss with a quick thickening time. |
| US09353306B2 |
Viscoelastic surfactant based wellbore fluids and methods of use
A wellbore fluid that includes an aqueous based fluid; an amphoteric, viscoelastic surfactant; and a modified starch is disclosed. Methods of drilling subterranean wells, methods of reducing the loss of fluid out of subterranean wells, and methods of completing wellbores using aqueous-based fluids having an ampoteric, viscoelastic surfactant and a modified starch are also disclosed. |
| US09353302B2 |
Fluorinated hydrocarbon composition
A composition is described including a first fluorinated hydrocarbon compound according to the formula: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are each independently H, F, Cl, Br, or I, n is 0, 1, 2, or 3, and each R′ group is independently H, F, Cl, Br, or I, with the proviso that zero to three of R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are F; a second fluorinated hydrocarbon compound according to the formula: wherein m is 0 or 1, and R6, R7, and R8 are each independently H, F, Cl, Br, or I, with the proviso that one of R6, R7, and R8 is F; and a third fluorinated hydrocarbon compound according to the formula: wherein R9, R10, R11, R12 and R13 are each independently H, Cl, Br, or I. |
| US09353300B2 |
Legume and/or oil seed flour-based adhesive composition
Adhesives made from phosphorylated legume and oil seed flours are described. The adhesive composition includes water and a legume and/or oil seed flour in which at least a portion of ε-amino moieties in lysine residues present in the flour are phosphorylated. An oxidizing agent may also optionally be added to the adhesive composition. |
| US09353299B2 |
2-cyanoacrylate-based adhesive composition
A 2-cyanoacrylate-based adhesive composition includes a 2-cyanoacrylic acid ester (a) and an onium salt (b) represented by general formula C+A−. In the formula, C+ is an onium cation, and A− is a hydrogen sulfate anion, bisulfite anion, sulfonate anion represented by R1SO3− (where R1 is an alkyl group, perfluoroalkyl group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms, cycloalkyl group, vinyl group, aryl group, perfluoroaryl group, aralkyl group, or halogen atom), or bis(substituted sulfonyl)imide anion represented by (R2SO2)2N− (where R2 is an alkyl group, perfluoroalkyl group, or aryl group).) The 2-cyanoacrylate-based adhesive composition has good storage stability and has an excellent adhesion rate to metals and thermoplastic elastomers. |
| US09353295B2 |
Olefin-based polymer and preparation method thereof
The present invention relates to an olefin-based polymer which exhibits superior processability and superior adhesive properties and therefore is desirably applicable to a hot-melt adhesive (HMA) or the like, and a preparation method thereof. The olefin-based polymer has a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn, PDI) of 2˜3, and a density of 0.85 to 0.88 g/cm3, and satisfies the relation of Tc−Tm>0, wherein Tc (° C.) is a crystallization temperature and Tm (° C.) is a melting point. |
| US09353293B2 |
Transparent double-sided adhesive sheet for image display device and image display device using the same
A novel transparent double-sided adhesive sheet for image display device is provided, that, under the constraint of holding down the thickness of the adhesive sheet to 250 μm or less, can relieve a distortion arising within the adhesive sheet after laminating even if a member has a stepped portion of 50 μm to 100 μm in height on the laminating surface.Proposed is a transparent double-sided adhesive sheet for image display device which is used for the purpose of laminating an image display device constitutive member having on a laminating surface a stepped portion of 50 μm to 100 μm in height and a flat surface portion, and another image display device constitutive member, wherein a thickness of the maximum thickness portion of the adhesive sheet is 250 μm or less, and a gel fraction (a) at a position in contact with a stepped portion after laminating is 10% or greater and smaller than a gel fraction (b) at a position in contact with a flat surface portion. |
| US09353292B2 |
Asphalt modified with an SBS/MMWCNT nanocomposite and production method thereof
The invention relates to a method for modifying an asphalt binder using, as an additive, a nanocomposite of: functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes dispersed in a styrene-butadiene-styrene polymer matrix (SBS/MMWCNT). The asphalt modified with the SBS/MMWCNT nanocomposite has substantially improved mechanical resistance to deformations and to loads at high temperatures, such that the life of the flexible paving is improved. The asphalt mixtures produced with this novel modified asphalt binder have considerably less rutting, are classified as high-modulus asphalt mixtures when produced from asphalt of medium (60/70) or greater hardness, and are not sensitive to moisture effects. |
| US09353290B2 |
Transfix surface member coating
An embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to an indirect printing apparatus. The indirect printing apparatus comprises an intermediate transfer member comprising a substrate and a surface layer disposed over the substrate. The surface layer comprises a fluoroelastomer-aminosilane grafted polymer and infrared absorptive filler materials. The indirect printing apparatus also comprises a coating mechanism for forming a sacrificial coating onto the intermediate transfer member and a drying station for drying the sacrificial coating. At least one ink jet nozzle is positioned proximate the intermediate transfer member and configured for jetting ink droplets onto the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. An ink processing station comprises a radiation source for at least partially drying the ink on the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. The indirect printing apparatus also comprises a substrate transfer mechanism for moving a substrate into contact with the intermediate transfer member. |
| US09353289B2 |
Coating composition comprising polysiloxane quats
The present invention provides a curable coating composition comprising at least one linear or cyclic polysiloxane containing at least one quaternary ammonium group, a process for producing the aforesaid coating composition, and a process for producing a coating with the curable coating composition, and also the coatings and coating compositions themselves that are obtainable by the processes described. |
| US09353288B2 |
Organosilicon compound, thin film forming composition using same, and organic thin film
The present invention is intended to provide an organosilicon compound for forming a novel organic thin film having improved physical properties. An organosilicon compound of the present invention is an organosilicon compound represented by formula (I) R—(CH2)n—SiX3 (I) (wherein R represents an alkoxy group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms or a phenyl group that optionally has a substituent, X represents a hydroxyl group or a hydrolyzable group, and n represents any integer from 17 to 24). An organic thin film can be formed by mixing the aforementioned organosilicon compound, a compound that can interact with the organosilicon compound, and water in an organic solvent to prepare an organic thin film forming solution, and bringing the organic thin film forming solution into contact with a substrate. |
| US09353285B2 |
Water-based two-component coating compositions
A water-based coating compositions including: at least one cross-linkable water-reducible binder having acid functional groups and functional groups with active hydrogen, at least one polyisocyanate cross-linking agent with free isocyanate groups, and water and optionally at least one organic solvent. The acid functional groups of the at least one water-reducible binder are at least partly neutralized with at least one neutralizing agent, the neutralizing agent including a monoamine having a secondary amino group attached to a tertiary carbon atom. The monoamine is preferably a reaction product of at least one monoamine having a primary amino group attached to a tertiary carbon atom and a mono-epoxide, or a reaction product of at least one monoamine having a primary amino group attached to a tertiary carbon atom and a mono-unsaturated compound. |
| US09353279B2 |
Ink, ink cartridge, and image-recording method
An ink including: a pigment dispersed with a polymer dispersant; polymer particles; a surfactant; a water-soluble organic solvent; and water, wherein the amount of anionic functional group on the surface of the polymer particles is 0.2 mmol/g or less, the surfactant is represented by the general formula (1) and contains a fluorinated surfactant having a hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) of 11 or less as determined by a Griffin method, and the water-soluble organic solvent contains at least one water-soluble organic solvent selected from glycerin, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, poly(ethylene glycol) having a weight-average molecular weight of 10,000 or less, 1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, and diglycerol. |
| US09353278B2 |
Ink, ink cartridge, and image-recording method
Provided is an ink containing a self-dispersible pigment, a polyurethane polymer particle, a surfactant, a water-soluble organic solvent, and water. The surfactant includes a fluorinated surfactant represented by Formula (1) and having an HLB value determined by a Griffin method of 11 or less. The water-soluble organic solvent includes at least one water-soluble organic solvent selected from a specific group, and the total content of the water-soluble organic solvents of the specific group is higher than the total content of the water-soluble organic solvents other than the solvents of the specific group. |
| US09353277B2 |
Water-based ink for ink-jet recording, ink cartridge, and ink-jet recording apparatus
A water-based ink for ink-jet recording includes a pigment; water; 1,2-alkanediol; a compound including an isothiazoline ring; and a surfactant represented by a general formula (1): In the general formula (1); each of R1, R2, R3, and R4 is one of a hydroxyl group, saturated fatty acid having a number of carbon atoms of 12 to 18 and unsaturated fatty acid having a number of carbon atoms of 12 to 18; and a, b, c, and d are identical with each other or different from each other, and a, b, c, and d are numbers to fulfill a+b+c+d≧20. |
| US09353276B2 |
Ink composition and recording apparatus
Disclosed herein is an ink composition, including: a color material; water; and a polymer particle, in which the polymer particle has a core-shell structure including a core polymer and a shell polymer, in which the polymer particle has an average particle diameter of 10 nm to 80 nm, in which the core polymer has a glass transition temperature of lower than 60° C. and the shell polymer has a glass transition temperature of higher than or equal to 60° C., and in which the core polymer includes an aromatic monomer having at least a vinyl group as a constitutional unit. |
| US09353274B1 |
Ink, ink cartridge, inkjet recording device, and copolymer
An ink includes water, a pigment, and a copolymer, wherein the copolymer contains a structure unit represented by the following Chemical formula 1, where R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, M1+ and M2+ each, independently represent monovalent cations, n and m each, independently represent 0 or integers of from 1 to 6 excluding a case where both are 0 and a structure unit represented by the following Chemical formula 2, where R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, Y represents an alkylene group having 2 to 18 carbon atoms. |
| US09353273B2 |
Ink film constructions
An ink film construction comprising: (a) a printing substrate; and (b) at least one ink film, fixedly adhered to a top surface of the printing substrate, the ink film having an upper film surface distal to the top surface of the substrate, wherein a surface concentration of nitrogen at the upper film surface exceeds a bulk concentration of nitrogen within the film, the bulk concentration measured at a depth of at least 30 nanometers below the upper film surface, and wherein a ratio of the surface concentration to the bulk concentration is at least 1.1 to 1. |
| US09353265B2 |
Image display sealant dam composition and image display having the same
The invention provides dam compositions which can give cured products serving as dam materials exhibiting appropriate hardness and adhesion with respect to adherends and which are preferably such that the dam materials also have inconspicuous joints with fillers. The invention also provides image displays manufactured with the compositions.An image display sealant dam composition includes (A) a polyorganosiloxane having a mercaptoalkyl group bonded to a silicon atom, and having a viscosity at 23° C. of 20 to 25000 cP; (B) an aliphatic unsaturated group-containing polyorganosiloxane including an aliphatic unsaturated group-containing linear polyorganosiloxane (B1) represented by Formula (I) and optionally further including a branched polyorganosiloxane (B2) having SiO4/2 units, R′3SiO1/2 units and R′2SiO2/2 units, and optionally further having R′SiO3/2 units, at least three R′ groups per molecule of the branched polyorganosiloxane (B2) are aliphatic unsaturated groups; (C) a photoreaction initiator; (D) an aliphatic unsaturated group-containing silane compound; and (E) a fumed silica having a BET specific surface area of 180 to 500 m2/g. In the composition, the ratio of the number of the mercaptoalkyl groups present in (A) to the total number of the aliphatic unsaturated groups in (B) and (D) is 0.45 to 1.50; the amount of (E) is 0.5 to 24 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of (B); and the composition has a viscosity at 23° C. of 20,000 to 10,000,000 cP. An image display includes an image display component and a protective component sealed with the composition. |
| US09353264B2 |
Polymer particle, aqueous dispersion including the same, and fluororesin coating composition using the same
The present invention provides a polymer particle comprising a polymer and a filler contained therein, wherein the polymer is soluble in an organic solvent and is also water insoluble, and wherein the polymer particle contains from 5 to 500 parts by weight of filler per 100 parts by weight of polymer, and a mean particle size of 75 μm or less. The invention also provides an aqueous dispersion including this particle; an aqueous fluororesin coating composition that uses this aqueous dispersion; and a fluororesin laminate or layered coating having a layer obtained from this fluororesin coating composition. |
| US09353259B2 |
Method for producing thermoplastic resin composition
Provided is a thermoplastic resin composition having high flame resistance and high fluidity during injection molding, and improved impact resistance in a molded article. A method for producing a thermoplastic resin composition, the method including the step (1) of obtaining a polyester resin mixture by melt-kneading 50 to 80 parts by weight of crystalline polyester resin and 20 to 50 parts by weight of amorphous polyester resin with an extruder, and the step (2) of mixing the polyester resin mixture, a polycarbonate resin, a flame retardant, a dripping inhibitor and a toughening agent, wherein the cylinder temperature of the extruder is 250 to 280° C. |
| US09353256B2 |
Epoxy resin composition for fiber-reinforced composite material
The present technology is an epoxy resin composition for a fiber-reinforced composite material comprising a phosphorus-containing epoxy resin containing phosphorus in the skeleton thereof, a dicyandiamide, and a curing promoter containing at least one selected from 1,1′-(4-methyl-1,3-phenylene)bis(3,3-dimethylurea), phenyl-dimethylurea represented by the following formula (1), and methylene-diphenyl-bisdimethylurea represented by the following formula (2); wherein the phosphorus content of the phosphorus-containing epoxy resin is at least 1.0 mass % and at most 5.0 mass % in the epoxy resin composition. |