Document | Document Title |
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US09448687B1 |
Zoomable/translatable browser interface for a head mounted device
A device may be configured to generate a display of a content in a view region. The view region has a given boundary, and the content is provided for display at a first size. The device may be configured to receive a size-adjusting input for adjusting a size of the content. The device may be configured to cause the size of the content to change from the first size to a second size. The device may be configured to receive an indication of ending the size-adjusting operation, and in response to receiving the indication, cause the size of the content to change to a third size that is between the first size and the second size. In addition, or alternative, to receiving the size-adjusting input, the device may also receive a position-adjusting input and, in response, adjust the position and/or size of the content within the given boundary. |
US09448686B2 |
Mobile terminal and method for controlling chat content based on different touch actions for a specific key
A mobile terminal including a touchscreen configured to display a keypad including keys for inputting and sending a chat content to at least one chat counterpart; a wireless communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate the chat content with the at least one chat counterpart; and a controller configured to receive a touch action on a specific key of the keypad, determine if the touch action corresponds to a preset touch manner that is different than a single short touch action on the specific key, send or input the chat content if the touch action is the single short touch action on the specific key, and provide an editing function of the chat content rather than sending or inputting the chat content if the touch action corresponds to the preset touch manner that is different than the single short touch action. |
US09448680B2 |
Power efficient application notification system
Applications on a computing device provide notifications associated with the application to a notification system. A notification includes an identification of content to be presented for the notification and an indication of when the content is to be presented. The notification system presents the notification content at the appropriate time regardless of whether the application is executing and without resuming execution of the application if the application is not running. Various power efficiency techniques are also used to determine which notifications are presented and when a user interface is updated to reflect those notifications in order to avoid updating the user interface to reflect notifications that would not be observable (e.g., due to a power mode of the computing device). |
US09448678B2 |
Capacitive transparent touch sheet having excellent visibility and durability
A capacitive transparent touch sheet has excellent visibility and durability without changing the sensitivity, size, or the like of a touch panel. The capacitive transparent touch sheet comprises: a first conductive sheet including a first substrate to be adhered to the hard substrate, and a plurality of strip shaped first electrodes formed separately on a surface of the first substrate to be adhered to the hard substrate; a second conductive sheet including a second substrate disposed to oppose the first substrate, a plurality of strip shaped second electrodes formed on a surface of the second substrate opposing the first substrate and arranged to cross the first electrodes, and at least one insulation part formed continuously with the second electrodes, the at least one insulation part having a thickness the same as that of the second electrodes; and an adhesive layer that bonds the first and second conductive sheets together. |
US09448673B2 |
Touch detection device, touch panel, and image display device
Provided is a touch detection device, including: a plurality of resonant circuits arranged along a touch detection surface; an input signal line for inputting, to each of the plurality of resonant circuits, an input signal for causing resonance; and a detecting unit for detecting frequencies of a plurality of output signals output from the plurality of resonant circuits. |
US09448672B2 |
Touch panel structure and fabrication method for the same
A touch panel structure includes a transparent substrate having a touch area and a frame wire area, X conductive electrodes, Y conductive electrodes, X conductive connecting sections connecting the X conductive electrodes along a first direction, frame wires, insulated layers and Y conductive connecting bridges on the insulated layers. The X and Y conductive electrodes are respectively arranged in an array in the touch area and interlaced with each other. The X and Y conductive electrodes are electrically connected to an external circuit via the frame wires. The insulated layers each cover one of the X conductive electrodes and two of the Y conductive electrodes. The Y conductive electrodes are electrically connected to each other via the Y conductive connecting bridges along a second direction. A conducting material is performed by one-time printing to pattern the X and Y conductive electrodes, X conductive connecting sections and frame wires. |
US09448670B2 |
Methods and systems for hybrid multi-touch capacitive (MTC) and active stylus touch device
Embodiments for a hybrid multi-touch capacitive (MTC) and active stylus touch device are provided. Embodiments enable various ways for reusing system resources to enable simultaneous detection of conducting objects in contact with the device and/or active styluses in proximity to the device. In an embodiment, receiver channels are reused in a time multiplexed manner between an MTC mode and an active stylus mode of operation. In another embodiment, the use of system resources, including receiver channels, is adjusted based on the presence/absence of conducting objects and/or active styluses. Embodiments for improving the detection of conducting objects and/or active styluses are also provided, including embodiments for reducing the interference between conducting objects and active styluses. |
US09448665B2 |
Display device including optical sensor
A display device includes: a first display panel; a second display panel facing the first display panel and including an optical sensor; an electro-optical active layer positioned between the first display panel and the second display panel; and a sensing gate driver including a first sensing gate driver and a second sensing gate driver, the sensing gate driver configured to transmit a sensing gate signal to the optical sensor, in which a first sensing gate off voltage applied to the first sensing gate driver is substantially the same as a second sensing gate off voltage applied to the second sensing gate driver. |
US09448663B2 |
Parallel touch point detection using processor graphics
Technologies for touch point detection include a computing device configured to receive input frames from a touch screen, identify touch point centroids and cluster boundaries, and track touch points. The computing device may group cells of the input frame into blocks. Using a processor graphics, the computing device may dispatch one thread per block to identify local maxima of the input frame and merge centroids within a touch distance threshold. The computing device may dispatch one thread per centroid to detect cluster boundaries. The computing device may dispatch one thread per previously identified touch point to assign an identifier of a previously tracked touch point to a touch point within a tracking distance threshold, remove duplicate identifiers, and assign unassigned identifiers to closest touch points. The computing device may dispatch one thread per block to assign unique identifiers to each unassigned touch point. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
US09448660B2 |
Flexible display apparatus and display method thereof
A flexible display apparatus includes a flexible display, a sensor which senses bending of the flexible display, and a controller which determines a screen activation region and a screen inactivation region from among a plurality of display regions of the flexible display based on the sensed bending, and displays a predetermined screen on the screen activation region. |
US09448659B2 |
Simultaneous touch sensor scanning and display refreshing for minimizing display degradation for display-embedded touch sensors
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a request to refresh a display for a refresh period, wherein the display is coupled to a touch sensor operable to detect touch input at the display. The method also includes refreshing a first portion of the display and activating the touch sensor at a second portion of the display different from the first portion of the display during a first portion of the refresh period. The method further includes, during a second portion of the refresh period, refreshing a third portion of the display different from the first and second portions of the display and activating the touch sensor at a fourth portion of the display different from the first, second, and third portions of the display. |
US09448646B1 |
System and method for bidirectional communication between stylus and stylus sensor controller
A method is provided for transmitting orientation data from an active stylus to a sensor controller, wherein the sensor controller is coupled to a sensor configured to receive input from the active stylus. In the method the active stylus transmits stylus capability information to the sensor controller, wherein the stylus capability information indicates one or more orientation sensors included in the active stylus, out of multiple orientation sensors that are respectively configured to measure multiple types of orientation data. The sensor controller, based on the received stylus capability information indicating the one or more orientation sensors included in the active stylus, requests the active stylus to transmit corresponding one or more types of orientation data measured by the one or more orientation sensors. The active stylus, in response to the request from the sensor controller, transmits the one or more types of orientation data. |
US09448638B2 |
Mobile devices for transmitting and receiving data using gesture
A mobile device configured for data transmission to a corresponding mobile device is provided. The mobile device may include a gesture input unit configured to receive a gesture, a gesture determination unit configured to determine whether the gesture corresponds to a preset gesture associated with a command to perform data transmission to the corresponding mobile device, and a data communication unit configured to transmit a data transmission request to the corresponding mobile device based on a result of the determination, configured to receive, from the corresponding mobile device, an acceptance signal indicating an input of an acceptance gesture at the corresponding mobile device, and configured to transmit data to the corresponding mobile device in response to receiving the acceptance signal. |
US09448632B2 |
Mobile device with a pressure and indentation sensitive multi-touch display
A view may be displayed on a multi-touch display based on force from a detected touch to a tactile point and an indentation of a clear layer. A detailed view related to the view may also be displayed on the multi-touch based on a detected further indentation of the tactile point. |
US09448630B2 |
Method for actuating a tactile interface layer
A method for actuating a tactile interface layer of a device that defines a surface with a deformable region, comprising the steps of deforming a deformable region of the surface into a formation tactilely distinguishable from the surface, detecting a force from the user on a deformed deformable region, interpreting the force as a command for the deformable region, and manipulating the deformable region of the surface based on the command. |
US09448628B2 |
Localized key-click feedback
Disclosed herein are techniques and systems for providing simulated, haptic feedback that is local to physical, non-actuating keys of a keyboard. A keyboard includes a plurality of non-actuating keys defined in a cover portion of the keyboard, a plurality of force-producing mechanisms coupled to a substrate underneath and adjacent the cover portion. The force-producing mechanisms may be positioned on suspended portions of the substrate that are mechanically isolated and arranged on the substrate to substantially correspond to a layout of the plurality of non-actuating keys. The force-producing mechanisms may be individually actuated to deflect the suspended portions of the substrate underneath the cover portion to create a tactile sensation for a user's finger that is local to a particular key. In some embodiments, the force-producing mechanisms are piezoelectric actuators. |
US09448626B2 |
Sound to haptic effect conversion system using amplitude value
A haptic conversion system is provided that intercepts frames of audio data, such as a digital audio signal, converts the frames into a haptic signal, and plays the created haptic signal through an actuator to produce haptic effects. The haptic signal is based on a maximum value of each audio data frame, which defines a magnitude of the haptic signal. The haptic signal is applied to the actuator configured to receive the haptic signal, where the actuator utilizes the haptic signal to generate the one or more haptic effects. |
US09448620B2 |
Input method and apparatus of portable device for mapping segments of a hand to a plurality of keys
An input apparatus for use in a portable device is provided. The input apparatus includes a camera for capturing an image; a storage unit which stores a key-hand mapping table for mapping segments of a hand to a plurality of keys, respectively, according to predetermined criteria; a display unit displaying the captured image during an input mode; and a control unit which activates the camera in the input mode, controls the display unit to display the captured image, assign the plural keys to the segments of the hand based on mapping information of the key-hand mapping table, detect an image change in one of the segments displayed on the display unit, and input the key mapped to the segment at which the image change is detected on the display unit. |
US09448618B2 |
Start-up module of redundant power supply having synchronous and sequential booting modes
A start-up architecture of a redundant power supply system is provided. The redundant power supply system is electrically connected to a load, and includes N+M power supplies, where N≧1 and M≧1. The start-up architecture includes a power integration backboard electrically connected to the power supplies, and a mode switching member. The power integration backboard includes an activation circuit, and has a synchronous booting mode in which the power supplies are simultaneously activated and a sequential booting mode in which the power supplies are sequentially activated. The mode switching member is electrically connected to the activation circuit, and receives a manual switching of a user to output a synchronous booting signal that controls the power integration backboard to enter the synchronous booting mode and to output a sequential booting signal that controls the power integration backboard to enter the sequential booting mode. |
US09448614B2 |
Low power archival data storage enclosure
A method of controlling power within a multiple-data-storage-devices enclosure is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the method comprises receiving a network connection and power from a data connection port to which a network cable is removably coupled; identifying one or more target data storage devices within the multiple-data-storage-devices enclosure to activate, wherein the one or more target data storage devices are a subset of all data storage devices within the multiple-data-storage-devices enclosure; powering off at least one of the data storage devices that draws power from the data connection port to make available additional power to supply from the data connection port; and powering the target data storage devices with the power received through the data connection port to activate the target data storage devices after all other data storage devices are powered off. |
US09448610B2 |
Vehicle mount computer with configurable ignition switch behavior
A vehicle mount computer having a configurable behavior controlled by a vehicle's ignition switch. A user can configure the computer to perform an action, switch modes, or execute a software application in response to the ignition switch being pressed or the position of the ignition switch being adjusted. For example, the computer can be configured to switch to a standby mode or hibernation mode, shutdown, prompt the user to select an action, or do nothing in response to the ignition switch being placed in an off position. The ignition switch can be electrically coupled to an input of the computer so that the computer's operating system or another application can monitor the status of the ignition switch. The operating system or application can cause the computer to perform the configured response upon detecting a change in the ignition switch's position or an actuation of the ignition switch. |
US09448608B1 |
Switchable backup battery for layered datacenter components
Systems and methods for handling battery backup resources in a computer system differently in certain situations, such as catastrophic events, based upon an assigned layer of the datacenter components to which the battery backup resource provides backup power. The layer can be based, for example, on criticality of the resource to the system. Less critical layers can shed load or gracefully shut down to respond to the event, and the battery resources can be reallocated or reconfigured to provide battery power to the more critical layers. |
US09448607B2 |
Irregularity detection device for a power switch
An irregularity detection device for a power switch determines if a temperature-dependent resistance on a current path of the power switch is abnormal according to if a voltage on the current path is greater than or equal to a configuration value when the power switch is turned on, and generates an irregularity alarm associated with the power switch based on the determination result. |
US09448605B2 |
Redundant power supply system providing rapid start of backup
A redundant power supply system providing rapid start of backup includes at least one primary power supply, at least one secondary power supply and a power integration panel. The secondary power supply includes a voltage regulation and energy saving element which has regulation potential after the secondary power supply being booted up. When the secondary power supply is triggered to shut down and the regulation potential is lower than a low voltage judgment criterion, it enters a standby working mode in which the secondary power supply is restarted for a transient working period to charge the voltage regulation and energy saving element. The power integration panel is electrically connected to the primary power supply and the secondary power supply, and inspects output status of the primary power supply and the secondary power supply in regular conditions to determine to boot up or shut down the secondary power supply. |
US09448601B1 |
Modular mass storage system with controller
A system for storing data includes a rack and one or more data storage modules coupled to the rack. The data storage modules may include a chassis, two or more backplanes coupled to the chassis, one or more mass storage devices coupled to the backplanes, and one or more data control modules mounted in one or more inlet air plenums extending upstream of one or more of the backplanes in the chassis interior. A data control module can be mounted in one or more air plenums extending beneath one or more of the backplanes in the chassis interior. A data control module can be mounted in one or more air plenums extending above one or more of the backplanes. A data control module mounted in a data storage module may access the mass storage devices in one or more of the data storage modules coupled to the rack. |
US09448600B2 |
Supporting device and mounting apparatus for data storage device and electronic device having the same
An electronic device includes a chassis having two side walls, two data storage devices, two supporting devices, and a bezel. Each side wall defines a lock hole. Each supporting device includes a bracket, a pair of lock pieces, and a pair of connecting members. The bracket includes two opposite side plates each defining a lock opening.Each lock piece includes two clasp members. Each connecting member includes two second poles. The first clasp members extend through the lock openings and insert into the lock holes. The second clasp members of the front supporting device are detachably coupled to the bezel, and the second clasp members of the rear the supporting devices are detachably coupled to the front supporting device. The second poles of the front supporting device are coupled to the bezel, and the second poles of the rear supporting device are coupled to the front supporting device. |
US09448597B2 |
Electronic device with serviceable CPU
An electronic device includes an opening in a cover, a sleeve extending from the opening to a circuit board, and a CPU assembly. The CPU assembly includes a CPU carrier and is insertable into the sleeve to connect the CPU carrier with a CPU connector upon the circuit board. A method of installing the CPU assembly into the electronic device includes inserting the CPU assembly into a an opening in a cover of the electronic device within a sleeve extending from the opening to a circuit board. A serviceable CPU assembly includes a CPU carrier thermally connected to an underside of a lower portion of a heat sink, a CPU assembly base including a plurality of guidance features to properly align CPU assembly during installation, and a handle assembly comprising at least one handle connected to an upper portion of the heat sink. |
US09448596B2 |
System waveguide interface
A system can include a display unit that includes extremely high frequency (EHF) radio frequency band communication circuitry; a base unit that includes extremely high frequency (EHF) radio frequency band communication circuitry; a mechanism that releasably couples the display unit and the base unit to define a coupled state; a hinge that orients the display unit with respect to the base unit in the coupled state; and a polymer ribbon waveguide that interconnects the communication circuitry of the display unit and the communication circuitry of the base unit in the coupled state. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
US09448595B2 |
Electronic device with detachable component
An electronic device may includes a housing including a portion that is transitionable between a pop-up state and a non-pop-up state, a locker for holding the portion of the housing in the non-pop-up state, and a pop-up device for popping up the portion of the housing when the locker releases the portion of the housing such that transitioning between the pop-up and non-pop-up states is allowed. |
US09448591B2 |
Compliant battery supports for device testing
Compliant supports hover a battery above pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) when testing a computing device and before the battery is bonded to an enclosure. The compliant supports are placed along a surface of the enclosure such that at least a portion of each of the compliant supports extends above the PSA. The compliant supports apply an upwards force on the battery to maintain a gap between the battery and the PSA. After electrical testing of the computing device, the battery is brought into contact with the PSA while retaining at least one of the compliant supports in the enclosure. In some embodiments, a downwards force is applied to the battery to overcome the upwards force from the compliant supports. |
US09448583B1 |
Electronic device and hinge assembly
An electronic device and hinge assembly includes an electronic device body including a base and a main unit, and hinge devices pivotally connecting the base and the main unit for allowing adjustment of the angular position of the main unit relative to the base step by step in a series of angles. Each hinge device includes a casing affixed to one of the base and the main unit, a pivot shaft connected to the base and the main unit and rotatably inserted through the casing and secured by a retaining ring, and a friction wheel set and a damper mounted on the pivot shaft. The friction wheel set includes a first friction wheel and having recessed portions equiangularly spaced at one side thereof, and a second friction wheel rotatable with the pivot shaft relative to the first friction wheel and having raised portions respectively engageable into the recessed portions. |
US09448582B2 |
Computer housing and arrangement
A computer housing that accommodates at least one motherboard, a power supply and further modules, wherein the housing includes at least a first level and a second level, wherein the second level is arranged horizontally above the first level, and an at least two-part motherboard carrier is arranged on the second level, wherein a first part of the motherboard carrier fixedly connects to the housing and a second part of the motherboard carrier is removable. |
US09448581B2 |
Timer unit circuit having plurality of output modes and method of using the same
A timer unit having a first output mode and a second output mode, the timer unit includes a first register that stores a first value, a second register that stores a second value, a third register that stores a third value, a counter that generates a count signal based on the first value, and an output circuit that outputs a first output signal and a second output signal. When the timer unit is set in the first output mode, the output circuit outputs the first output signal having a pulse width determined by the count signal and the second value, and outputs the second output signal having a pulse width determined by the count signal and the third value. When the timer unit is set in the second output mode, the output circuit outputs the first output signal having a pulse width determined by the count signal, the second value and the third value. |
US09448579B2 |
Low drift voltage reference
Circuits and method for providing voltage reference circuits that include low drift over time and lower operating voltages are provided. Generally, it is desirable that a reference circuit provide an accurate and precise reference over time. The voltage reference circuits described can provide for good long term stability, operation at lower voltages than prior designs, consistent output voltage with reduced variability due to process changes and mismatches, low noise in the reference voltage, and other advantages. |
US09448577B2 |
Smart-grid adaptive power management method and system with power factor optimization and total harmonic distortion reduction
A method and system of power factor optimization and total harmonic distortion are provided under the premise of efficient power management and distribution on an electrical grid. The method and system include a novel optimization technique based on a novel current profiling methodology enabling real-time power management with power factor correction as a function of the optimization. The optimization can be performed under dynamic current constraints. When deployed on an electrical grid, the method and system can provide a new technique for power management targeting an efficiency of the electrical grid. The method and system can thus provide for reduced costs of energy production and reduced carbon emissions into the atmosphere. |
US09448576B2 |
Programmable power supplies for cellular base stations and related methods of reducing power loss in cellular systems
Methods of powering a radio that is mounted on a tower of a cellular base station are provided in which a direct current (“DC”) power signal is provided to the radio over a power cable and a voltage level of the output of the power supply is adjusted so as to provide a substantially constant voltage at a first end of the power cable that is remote from the power supply. Related cellular base stations and programmable power supplies are also provided. |
US09448575B2 |
Bipolar transistor adjustable shunt regulator circuit
An adjustable shunt regulator circuit has two current paths in parallel, with each current path having a bipolar transistor therein with the bases of the bipolar transistors of the two current paths connected in common. One of the current paths has a high impedance node. A MOS transistor has a gate connected to the high impedance node, and a source and a drain. A resistor divide circuit is connected in parallel to the source and drain of the MOS transistor and provides the output of the regulator circuit. The resistor divide circuit has a first resistor connected in series with a second resistor at a first node. A feedback connects the first node to the bases of the bipolar transistors connected in common of the two current paths. |
US09448574B2 |
Low drop-out voltage regulator
A system including a first transistor, a first capacitor and a circuit. The first transistor has a first control input and is configured to regulate an output voltage. The first capacitor is coupled at one end to the first control input and at another end to a circuit reference. The circuit is configured to provide a first voltage to the first control input, where the first voltage includes an offset voltage that is referenced to the output voltage and adjusted to compensate for variations in the first transistor. |
US09448569B2 |
System for reducing the thermal inertia of an electronic display
A system for controlling the cooling fan within an electronic display based on the amount of ambient light present. An ambient light sensor is used to measure the amount of ambient light which is contacting the display. To anticipate a temperature rise and lower the thermal inertia of the display, the fan speed is increased when high ambient light levels are measured at the exterior of the display. The ambient light sensor data may be used to apply a temperature correction factor to a temperature sensor within the display. Alternatively, the ambient light sensor data may be used to apply a fan speed correction factor to a desired fan speed (calculated based on a temperature sensor within the display). Multiple systems or methods can be used simultaneously within the display to cool several components which may heat and cool at different rates relative to one another. The various systems can have similar or different logic depending on the amount of cooling needed and the manner in which the cooled-components produce/absorb heat. |
US09448565B2 |
Safety device for installation in a gas-supply system, in particular, an acetylene-supply system
Relevant specifications in the field of gas supply provide for different safety devices for installation in a gas-supply system, in particular, an acetylene-supply system. To provide such a safety device, which is characterized by a compact structure and a high level of operational reliability, this invention proposes that a valve body (1) incorporates an over-pressure valve (4; 104) of a quick-action shut-off device, a control valve (3; 103) of a pressure-limiting device, and a safety valve (2; 102), whereby the safety valve (2; 102) can be fluidically connected to the over-pressure valve (4; 104) and the control valve (3; 103), and closes either when the over-pressure valve (4; 104) opens due to an inlet pressure that is above the inlet-pressure limit value or when the control valve (3; 103) opens due to an outlet pressure that is above an outlet-pressure limit value. |
US09448564B2 |
Gas delivery system for outputting fast square waves of process gas during semiconductor processing
A wave generation component during an off cycle when the on-off valve is closed to build pressure from the process gas in an accumulation volume. During an on cycle when the on-off valve is open the wave generation component releases the process gas according to a time constant. A flow restrictor installed downstream in a throat of the on-off valve, outputs the rapid square waves to the conduit at a predefined magnitude. The flow restrictor is selected to have an impedance that is high enough to significantly raise the time constant during the on cycle such that pressure decay in each square wave pulse over the on cycle decreases to within a tolerance, wherein the time constant is at least in part a function of the flow restrictor impedance. |
US09448563B2 |
Grey water interface for high flow applications in vacuum systems
Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to a flow control unit for controlling liquid flow in a vacuum waste system. In one embodiment, the flow control unit provides a series of valves that direct liquid flow. The unit may also have an intermediate transfer tube that holds a portion of the liquid to be directed, prior to delivery of the liquid to left and right transfer tubes. In one embodiment, the unit may be installed on board a passenger transport vehicle. A particularly beneficial use of the flow control unit is on a private aircraft for use as a shower control unit. |
US09448559B2 |
Autonomous vehicle routing and navigation using passenger docking locations
A method and apparatus for autonomous vehicle routing and navigation using passenger docking locations are disclosed. Autonomous vehicle routing and navigation using passenger docking locations may include an autonomous vehicle identifying vehicle transportation network information representing a vehicle transportation network, the vehicle transportation network including a primary destination, wherein identifying the vehicle transportation network information includes identifying the vehicle transportation network information such that it includes docking location information representing a plurality of docking locations, wherein each docking location corresponds with a respective location in the vehicle transportation network. The autonomous vehicle may determine a target docking location for the primary destination based on the vehicle transportation network information, identify a route from an origin to the target docking location in the vehicle transportation network using the vehicle transportation network information, and travel from the origin to the target docking location using the route. |
US09448557B2 |
Method and system for controlling at least one actuator of the cowlings of a turbojet engine thrust inverter
The invention relates to a control system for at least one actuator (6) for the cowlings of a thrust inverter in a turbojet engine, that comprises an assembly of actuation and/or control components. A control means (9) is provided for detecting the failure of an actuation and/or control component (7, 16, 13), for determining the blocking or non-blocking character of the failure for the system operation and, in case of a non-blocking failure, for switching from a nominal operation mode to a failure-adaptation operation mode in which the failure of the actuation and/or control component (7, 16, 13) is compensated at least partially by a modified instruction of the other actuation and/or control components (7, 16, 13). |
US09448556B2 |
Apparatus and method for advanced alarming in field device protocols
A method includes providing an identification of multiple device-specific parameters to a user, where the device-specific parameters are associated with a field device. The method also includes receiving a selection of at least one of the device-specific parameters from the user. The method further includes, upon receipt of the selection of the at least one device-specific parameter, providing an identification of multiple bits associated with the at least one selected device-specific parameter to the user. The method also includes receiving a selection of at least one of the bits from the user. The method further includes saving the at least one selected device-specific parameter and the at least one selected bit as a custom alarm condition. A selected criticality option or a selected priority option can be saved as part of the custom alarm condition. The custom alarm condition can be loaded into a controller of a process control system. |
US09448554B2 |
Vehicle-location recognition system and method, and vehicle assembly-history management system and method using the same
A vehicle-location recognition system includes an electronic recognition unit provided in a respective vehicle of an ordered set of vehicles which are introduced into an assembling process section, the electronic recognition unit storing an ID number of the respective vehicle therein. A sensor unit detects the electronic recognition unit as the vehicle passes by a location of the sensor unit along the assembling process section. A control unit stores the ID number in sequence order with the ID numbers of the vehicles of the ordered set of vehicles, and determines a location of a particular vehicle in the ordered set of vehicles based on the ordered sequence of stored ID numbers and information on the spacing intervals between vehicles in the assembling process section. |
US09448548B2 |
Synchronizing and displaying fault tolerant Ethernet (FTE) status
A method of displaying fault tolerant Ethernet (FTE) status in a process control system having FTE devices in a FTE community including a plurality of Enhanced Universal Control Networks (EUCNs) each having an Enhanced Network Interface Module (ENIM). FTE cable status data is collected from the FTE devices during system operation. Responsive to receiving user's request, generating diagnostic display view data filtered by a FTE Device index including FTE status for any combination of the FTE devices or second FTE diagnostic display view data filtered by EUCN node number including FTE status for FTE devices in a user selected EUCN. The first FTE diagnostic display view data or second FTE diagnostic display view data are transmitted to a device of the user, and is then displayed on a user's display. |
US09448547B2 |
Sensor and power coordinator for vehicles and production lines that hosts removable computing and messaging devices
A sensor and power coordinator device fixably mounted to a piece of fixed or moveable equipment including a vehicle and capable of supporting a varying collection of computationally-potent, communication handhelds, that provisions power and coordinates metrics, authorization, and operation to enable sharing of vehicle-and-device-and-handheld-and-operator-specific data, thereby enabling aggregate operations by providing the collective operational stability while accommodating operator and handheld variation. |
US09448546B2 |
Deterministic optimization based control system and method for linear and non-linear systems
The embodiments described herein include one embodiment that provides a control method including determining a linear approximation of a pre-determined non-linear model of a process to be controlled, determining a convex approximation of the nonlinear constraint set, determining an initial stabilizing feasible control trajectory for a plurality of sample periods of a control trajectory, executing an optimization-based control algorithm to improve the initial stabilizing feasible control trajectory for a plurality of sample periods of a control trajectory, and controlling the controlled process by application. |
US09448544B2 |
Data center intelligent control and optimization
Systems and methods of monitoring, analyzing, optimizing and controlling data centers and data center operations are disclosed. The system includes data collection and storage hardware and software for harvesting operational data from data center assets and operations. Intelligent analysis and optimization software enables identification of optimization and/or control actions. Control software and hardware enables enacting a change in the operational state of data centers. |
US09448534B2 |
Perpetual calendar with a differential mechanism
A perpetual calendar for a watch including a movement controlling the daily release, at the moment that the date changes, of a mechanism actuating a perpetual lever of this perpetual calendar is disclosed. The perpetual calendar includes a calendar mechanism, a daily countdown mechanism including a month-end adjustment mechanism, and a differential mechanism. The calendar mechanism is arranged to determine the duration of the current month and is updated at each current month change by the daily countdown mechanism. The differential mechanism is arranged to control, each day at the moment that the date changes, the motion of an additional adjustment cam comprised in the month-end adjustment mechanism, based on the current day of the month taken from the daily countdown mechanism, and also based on the current month duration taken from the calendar mechanism. |
US09448533B2 |
Barrel shaft for a clock movement, barrel spring and barrel including such a spring and/or such a shaft
The invention relates to a barrel spring (2) including: an inner end (5) and an outer end; a first portion (50) having a first height (H); a second portion (52) having a second height (h) that is smaller than the first height (H) and being located near the inner end (5); and, at the second portion, e.g. at the inner end, a first attachment element (51) suitable for being attached to the barrel shaft, wherein the second portion is to be inserted into a circumferentially extending groove provided on the barrel shaft. |
US09448532B2 |
Method and device for encoding three-dimensional scenes which include transparent objects in a holographic system
Method for computing the code for the reconstruction of three-dimensional scenes which include objects which partly absorb light or sound. The method can be implemented in a computing unit. In order to reconstruct a three-dimensional scene as realistic as possible, the diffraction patterns are computed separately at their point of origin considering the instances of absorption in the scene. The method can be used for the representation of three-dimensional scenes in a holographic display or volumetric display. Further, it can be carried out to achieve a reconstruction of sound fields in an array of sound sources. |
US09448530B1 |
Developer storage body, image forming unit and image forming apparatus
A developer storage body includes a first storage member, a second storage member, a frame and a resiliently deformable partition member. The first storage member includes a first opening, and a first flange provided along an outer periphery of the first opening. The second storage member includes a second opening, and a second flange provided along an outer periphery of the second opening so that the second flange faces the first flange. The frame includes a third flange held between the first flange and the second flange. A partition member includes a peripheral end portion fixed to the frame. The partition member and the first storage member form a first space portion therebetween. The partition member and the second storage member form a second space portion therebetween. |
US09448529B2 |
Developing cartridge
A developing cartridge, comprising: a housing; a developing roller; a drive mechanism configured to transmit a driving force to the developing roller; and a restriction part configured to restrict movement of the housing when the restriction part engages with an external member, wherein the housing comprises: a first side wall; and a second side wall spaced from the first side wall in a first direction, wherein the drive mechanism is disposed to the second side wall, wherein: the restriction part is disposed to the first side wall; and the restriction part comprises projecting parts spaced from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. |
US09448527B1 |
Driving force transmission mechanism and image forming apparatus
A driving force transmission mechanism includes a body that includes a transmission member, which transmits a driving force and includes a rotatable first surface and two first projections, and an installation unit that includes a receiving member including a second surface, which faces the first surface and which is rotatable by receiving the force when the installation unit is installed, and two second projections, which receive the force from the first projections by contacting the first projections when the first surface rotates, and that is removably installed in the body in a direction, in which the second surface moves parallel to the first surface, to couple the transmission member and the receiving member. The body includes a contact member that contacts, to rotate the receiving member, one of the second projections when the installation unit is installed while a line segment connecting the second projections is intersecting an installation direction. |
US09448526B2 |
Image forming apparatus including rotatable cartridge supporting member
When an operation member is moved in a state in which a cartridge is mounted to an apparatus main body of an image forming apparatus, a cartridge supporting member is rotated away from a transfer member so that the cartridge is rotated and enters a state in which the cartridge is inclined at an angle θ1 with respect to the transfer member, and an exposure device is rotated away from the transfer member and enters a state in which the exposure device is inclined at an angle θ2 higher than the angle θ1 with respect to the transfer member. |
US09448521B2 |
Image forming apparatus and control method
An image forming apparatus in which a sheet conveyance speed is changeable includes a development section, a replenishment section, and a control section. The development section performs development with a developer. The replenishment section replenishes the development section with the developer. The control section controls the replenishment section to control an amount of the developer for replenishment of the development section in response to a change of the sheet conveyance speed. |
US09448518B2 |
Image processing apparatus with display unit
An image forming apparatus includes an operation panel to preview an image page by page. The image forming apparatus stores a feature of an image of a page previewed on the operation panel and extracts a regularity from the stored feature of the image. When a feature of an image of a page previewed on the operation panel does not agree with the extracted regularity, the image forming apparatus displays a menu for correcting the feature that does not agree. |
US09448510B2 |
Image forming apparatus for forming image by using developer including toner and carrier
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier, a first guide portion, a developing portion, and a second guide portion. The first guide portion forms a first flow path in which toner removed from the image carrier is flowed downward with respect to a horizontal direction. The developing portion visualizes an electrostatic latent image formed on a surface of the image carrier, with developer including at least toner and carrier. The second guide portion forms a second flow path in which the developer in the developing portion is flowed diagonally downward with respect to the horizontal direction and guided to the first flow path. |
US09448505B2 |
Developing cartridge
A developing cartridge may include multiple rotary members, at least one of the rotary members configured to be detected by an image forming apparatus. In one example, the rotary members may include engagement portions configured to engage with one another to rotate the rotary members. Additionally or alternatively, in a case where one rotary member is in a driven position, the other rotary member may be rotatable a predefined amount from a non-driving state in which the other rotary member is rotatably disengaged from the one rotary member, to a driving state in which the other rotary member rotatably engages the one rotary member with the engagement portions in contact with one another. |
US09448500B2 |
Magnetic iron oxide particles, magnetic carrier for electrophotographic developers and process for producing the same, and two-component system developer
The present invention provides magnetic iron oxide particles having a high bonding property to a resin as well as a magnetic carrier for electrophotographic developers which is improved in durability by enhancing adhesion between a magnetic carrier core material and a coating resin. The magnetic iron oxide particles of the present invention are magnetic iron oxide particles having an average particle diameter of 0.5 to 30 μm onto which a plurality of granules are bonded, and the magnetic carrier for electrophotographic developers according to the present invention is a magnetic carrier for electrophotographic developers which comprises spherical magnetic composite particles produced by dispersing magnetic iron oxide particles in a binder resin in which the magnetic iron oxide particles comprise at least the above magnetic iron oxide particles having an average particle diameter of 0.5 to 30 μm onto which the plurality of granules are bonded. |
US09448499B2 |
Electrophotographic toner using bioplastic and method of producing the same
An electrophotographic toner having good grindability, and excellent fixability and durability, and a method of producing the same are provided. The electrophotographic toner includes an amorphous bioplastic having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 30,000 to 100,000, and at least one of a phenol resin and a terpene phenol resin as a grinding aid. |
US09448497B2 |
Overcoat formulation for long-life electrophotographic photoconductors and method for making the same
An overcoat layer and method to make an overcoated photoconductor drum of an electrophotographic image forming device using irradiation such as with electron beam (EB) or ultraviolet (UV) light is provided. The photoconductor drum is then cured using EB dose of between 10 and 100 kiloGrays (kGy), preferably between 20 and 40 kGys or UV irradiation with an exposure of between 0.1 and 2 J/cm2. The unique overcoat layer of the present invention is formed having a biphasic morphology comprised of a highly cured crosslinked phase and a second phase enriched in uncured material. The desired amount of uncured uncrosslinked material found in the second phase of the biphasic structure, is between 2-70 wt % range, with particularly good combination of long-life and electrical performance when present at the 5-50 wt % level, and the best performance at the 15-40 wt % level. The biphasic morphology of the overcoat layer using the method of the present invention gives rise to the good wear rates while allowing rapid transport of the electrical charge and thus fast discharge properties of the photoconductor drum. |
US09448495B2 |
Resist pattern calculation method and calculation program storage medium
A recording medium stores a program for causing a computer to execute a method of calculating a resist pattern. The method includes: a first step of calculating a light intensity distribution of an optical image formed on the resist, based on the reticle pattern and an exposure condition; a second step of convoluting, using a first diffusion length, the calculated light intensity distribution; a third step of calculating a representative light intensity from the calculated light intensity distribution or the convoluted light intensity distribution; a fourth step of correcting the convoluted light intensity distribution by adding, to the convoluted light intensity distribution, a correction function including a first function given by: { ∑ k = 0 n ( a k J k ) } exp ( - α J ) where J is the distribution of the representative light intensity; and a fifth step of calculating the resist pattern based on the corrected light intensity distribution and a slice level set in advance. |
US09448494B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A gas knife configured to dry a surface in an immersion lithographic apparatus is optimized to remove liquid by ensuring that a pressure gradient is built up in the liquid film on the surface being dried. |
US09448493B2 |
Exposure method, exposure apparatus, and method for producing device
An exposure apparatus and method exposes a substrate by projecting an image of a pattern onto the substrate through a liquid. A projection optical system projects the image of the pattern onto the substrate. A recovery port recovers the liquid supplied onto the substrate. A temperature sensor measures a temperature of the liquid recovered via the recovery port. |
US09448490B2 |
EUV lithography system
An EUV lithography system 1 comprises an EUV beam path and a monitor beam path 51. The EUV beam path comprises a mirror system 13, which has a base and a multiplicity of mirror elements 17 having concave mirror surfaces, the orientation of which relative to the base is respectively adjustable.The monitor beam path 51 comprises at least one monitor radiation source 53, a screen 71, the mirror system 13, which is arranged in the monitor beam path 51 between the monitor radiation source 53 and the screen 71, and a spatially resolving detector 77. In this case, each of a plurality of the mirror elements generates an image of the monitor radiation source in an image plane assigned to the respective mirror elements, distances B between the image planes assigned to the mirror elements and the screen have a maximum distance, distances A between each of the plurality of mirror elements and the image plane assigned to it have a minimum distance, and the maximum distance B is less than half of the minimum distance A. |
US09448488B2 |
Off-axis alignment system and alignment method
An off-axis alignment system includes, sequentially along a transmission path of a light beam, an illumination module (10), an interference module (20) and a detection module (30). The interference module (20) includes: a polarization beam splitter (21) having four side faces, the illumination module (10) and the detection modules (30) both located on a first side of the polarization beam splitter (21); a first quarter-wave plate (22) and a first reflector (23), sequentially disposed on a second side opposite to the first side; and a second quarter-wave plate (24) and a cube-corner prism (25), sequentially disposed on a third side of the polarization beam splitter (21); and a third quarter-wave plate (26), a second reflector (27) and a lens (28), sequentially disposed on a fourth side of the polarization beam splitter (21). The second reflector (27) is located on a rear focal plane of the lens (28). A center of a bottom of the cube-corner prism (25) is situated on an optical axis of the lens (28). An off-axis alignment method is also disclosed. |
US09448487B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor and exposure system
A method of manufacturing semiconductor and an exposure system are provided. The method includes the following step. A material layer is formed on a substrate. A patterned photoresist layer is formed a on the material layer and a monitor parameter group is produced from a state information of the patterned photoresist layer. The monitor parameter group is calculated based on a mathematic formula to obtain a virtual parameter. Whether the virtual parameter is less than a reference value is determined. A layout process is performed on the material layer when the virtual parameter is less than the reference value. |
US09448483B2 |
Pattern shrink methods
Pattern shrink methods comprise: (a) providing a semiconductor substrate comprising one or more layers to be patterned; (b) providing a resist pattern over the one or more layers to be patterned; (c) coating a shrink composition over the pattern, wherein the shrink composition comprises a polymer and an organic solvent, wherein the polymer comprises a group containing a hydrogen acceptor effective to form a bond with an acid group and/or an alcohol group at a surface of the resist pattern, and wherein the composition is free of crosslinkers; and (d) rinsing residual shrink composition from the substrate, leaving a portion of the polymer bonded to the resist pattern. Also provided are pattern shrink compositions, and coated substrates and electronic devices formed by the methods. The invention find particular applicability in the manufacture of semiconductor devices for providing high resolution patterns. |
US09448482B2 |
Pattern forming method, resist pattern formed by the method, method for manufacturing electronic device using the same, and electronic device
There is provided a pattern forming method including (1) forming a film by an actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition containing a resin (A) capable of increasing the polarity by the action of an acid so that a solubility thereof in a developer containing an organic solvent is decreased, (2) exposing the film, (3) developing the film by a developer including an organic solvent to form a negative pattern having a space part obtained by removing a part of the film and a residual film part which is not removed by the developing, (4) forming a resist film for reversing a pattern, on the negative pattern, so as to be embedded in the space part in the negative pattern, and (5) reversing the negative pattern into a positive pattern by removing the residual film part in the negative pattern by using an alkaline wet etching liquid. |
US09448479B2 |
Photosensitive resin composition, resist laminate, and articles obtained by curing same (7)
The purpose of the present invention is to provide the following: a photosensitive epoxy resin composition that, via photolithography, can form a high-resolution, low-stress image that has vertical side walls and resists moisture and heat, and/or a resist laminate using said photosensitive epoxy resin composition; and an article or articles obtained by curing said photosensitive epoxy resin composition and/or resist laminate. The present invention is a photosensitive resin composition containing the following: an epoxy resin (A), a polyhydric phenol compound (B) having a specific structure, a cationic-polymerization photoinitiator (C), a silane compound (D) containing an epoxy group, and a reactive epoxy monomer (E) having a specific structure. The epoxy resin (A) contains the phenol derivative represented by formula (1), an epoxy resin (a) obtained via a reaction with epihalohydrin, and an epoxy resin (b) that can be represented by formula (2). The reactive epoxy monomer (E) is a bisphenol epoxy resin. |
US09448478B2 |
Chemically amplified positive-type photosensitive resin composition for thick-film application
A chemically amplified positive-type photosensitive resin composition for thick-film application capable of forming a resist pattern having a nonresist section with a good rectangular cross-sectional shape under a low exposure level even when a resist pattern having a film thickness of 10 μm or more is formed. A chemically amplified positive-type photosensitive resin composition for thick-film application comprising an acid generator and an organic solvent, in which an acrylic resin is added that contains a constituent unit derived from an acrylic acid ester comprising an —SO2-containing cyclic group or a lactone-containing cyclic group as a resin whose solubility in alkali increases under the action of acid. |
US09448477B2 |
Actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition, resist film, pattern forming method, manufacturing method of electronic device using the same, and electronic device
There is provided an actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition comprising: (A) a resin having a repeating unit represented by the specific formula and a group capable of decomposing by an action of an acid to produce a polar group; and an ionic compound represented by the specific formula, and a resist film comprising the actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition. |
US09448476B2 |
Photoresist composition and method of manufacturing a thin film transistor substrate
A photoresist composition includes about 0.1 to about 30 parts by weight of a photo-initiator, about 1 to 50 parts by weight of a first acrylate monomer including at least five functional groups, about 1 to 50 parts by weight of a second acrylate monomer including at most four functional groups with respect to about 100 parts by weight of an acryl-copolymer. |
US09448473B2 |
Method for fracturing and forming a pattern using shaped beam charged particle beam lithography
In the field of semiconductor production using charged particle beam lithography, a method and system for fracturing or mask data preparation or proximity effect correction is disclosed, where a non-circular target pattern to be formed on a surface is input. A plurality of charged particle beam shots for a multi-beam charged particle beam system is determined, where the plurality of shots will form a pattern on the surface, each charged particle beam shot being a multi-beam shot comprising a plurality of circular or nearly-circular beamlets. The pattern on the surface matches the target pattern within a predetermined tolerance. The determining is performed using a computing hardware device. |
US09448462B2 |
Pulse width modulation control of solenoid motor
A drive mechanism configured to drive a thermally isolated actuator between two positions. The drive mechanism includes a rotary actuated motor configured to rotatably drive a motor member, and a drive member coupled to the motor member and having a drive arm configured to responsively move from a first position to a second position upon rotation of the motor member. An actuator is responsive to movement of the drive arm moved from the first position to the second position. A drive circuit is configured to generate a pulse width modulated (PWM) drive signal configured to controllably drive the motor, the PWM drive signal having a first duty cycle configured to advance the drive arm from the first position, and having a second duty cycle different than the first duty cycle as the drive arm approaches the second position. The drive signal may be removed before the drive arm engages a hard stop. The drive mechanism may comprise at least one sensor configured to determine a position of the drive arm proximate the first position and proximate the second position. The actuator is thermally isolated from the drive arm in both the first position and the second position. |
US09448460B2 |
Imaging using metamaterials
A system for imaging an object is provided. The system includes a light source configured to emit light having a predetermined wavelength towards the object. The system further includes a metalens including a metallic film having a plurality of slits defined therethrough, the plurality of slits having a width a and a periodicity d that are both less than the predetermined wavelength, wherein the object is positioned between the light source and the metalens. The system further includes a detector configured to acquire measurements indicative of light transmitted through the metalens, and a computing device communicatively coupled to the detector and configured to reconstruct an image of the object based on the acquired measurements. |
US09448458B2 |
Optical communication device and method of controlling optical modulator
An optical communication device has a pair of Mach-Zehnder optical modulators; a voltage monitor configured to monitor a voltage component acquired by optical-to-electric conversion of combined light output from the Mach-Zehnder optical modulators; a power monitor configured to monitor a power component acquired by square law detection of the optical-to-electric converted combined light from the Mach-Zehnder optical modulators; a first controller configured to control a substrate bias voltage or a driving amplitude applied to one of two waveguides of each of the Mach-Zehnder optical modulators based upon an output of the power monitor, and a second controller configured to control the substrate bias voltage or the driving amplitude applied to the other of the two waveguides of each of the Mach-Zehnder optical modulator based upon an output of the voltage monitor. |
US09448456B2 |
Tunable liquid crystal optical device
A liquid crystal optical device has a layered structure with split liquid crystal layers having alignment surfaces that define in a liquid crystal material pre-tilt angles of opposite signs. Four liquid crystal layers can provide two directions of linear polarization. In the case of a lens, the device can be a gradient index lens, and the alignment surfaces can have a spatially uniform pre-tilt. |
US09448455B2 |
Thin film transistor substrate and liquid crystal display including the same
A thin film transistor array panel includes a first subpixel electrode and a second subpixel electrode electrically connected with a drain electrode through a first contact hole and a second contact hole, respectively. The first subpixel electrode and the second subpixel electrode include a plurality of vertical stems, a plurality of horizontal stems, and a plurality of branch electrodes. The first subpixel electrode is formed above a gate line and the second subpixel electrode is formed below a gate line. The thin film transistor array panel further includes a first protrusion formed in the plurality of vertical stems of the first subpixel electrode and the plurality of vertical stems of the second subpixel electrode. |
US09448454B2 |
Active matrix substrate and display device
An active matrix substrate (5) is provided with mounting terminals (DT3), draw-out lines (22) connecting mounting terminals (DT4) and data bus lines (D), a first common wire (47) connected in common to the plurality of data bus lines (D), and second thin-film transistors (second switching elements) (45) connected between the draw-out lines (22) and the first common wire (47). End portions of the data bus lines (D) to which the mounting terminals (DT3) are not connected are connected to second common wires (54) via third thin-film transistors (52). |
US09448448B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes a TFT substrate, a CF substrate, and a liquid crystal interposed between the TFT substrate and the CF substrate, and drives the liquid crystal in a horizontal electric field. The TFT substrate includes a recess, and the CF substrate includes a columnar protrusion. The protrusion of the CF substrate is fitted to the recess of the TFT substrate so as to function as a stopper for preventing a positional gap between the TFT substrate and the CF substrate. |
US09448446B2 |
Liquid crystal optical device, image display device, and imaging device
A liquid crystal optical device of an embodiment includes: a first substrate unit; a second substrate unit; and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first substrate unit and the second substrate unit. The liquid crystal molecules on a side of a first alignment layer of the first substrate unit is aligned perpendicularly to a first principal surface of the first substrate unit while the liquid crystal molecules on a side of a second alignment layer of the second substrate unit are aligned horizontally along a second direction. The opposing electrode includes: a first region and a second region, the first region has N first openings, and the second region includes M second openings, N being an integer of 0 or greater, M being an integer of 1 or greater, M being greater than N. |
US09448442B2 |
Display device having particular sealing section
To improve the reliability of a display device, a liquid crystal display device includes a substrate having a back surface, a substrate having a front surface opposing the back surface, a display functional layer arranged between the substrate and the substrate, and a sealing section SL that adhesively fixes the substrates around the display functional layer in a plan view. The sealing section SL includes a member PS extending along an outer edge of the display functional layer and sealing materials adjacently arranged on both sides of the member PS and continuously surrounding the periphery of the display functional layer in a plan view. The member PS includes a plurality of portions PS1 having a height TK1 and a plurality of portions PS2 arranged among the plurality of portions PS1 and having a height TK2 smaller than the height TK1. |
US09448441B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A plurality of grooves (28) are provided in a surface of the array substrate (20) facing the liquid crystal layer (50) to extend along a sealing material, and are spaced apart from each other in a width direction of the sealing material. An alignment film (27) covers surfaces of some or all of the grooves located from a midway portion of the sealing material in a width direction thereof toward a display region (D), and is in contact with the sealing material, and part of the sealing material located from the midway portion in the width direction in a direction away from the display region is directly in contact with the array substrate without the alignment film being provided between the seal material and the array substrate. |
US09448437B2 |
Display apparatus for controlling optical transmissivity
A display apparatus includes a transparent display device, a first polarizer on a first surface of the transparent display device, a first retarder between the first polarizer and the first surface of the transparent display device, a second polarizer on a second surface of the transparent display device opposite the first surface, and a conversion retarder between the second polarizer and the second surface of the transparent display device, the conversion retarder being configured to delay a wavelength of the external light within a range from a first phase to a second phase and to transmit the wavelength-delayed light therethrough when power is supplied to the conversion retarder. |
US09448435B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
In a first substrate, a reflective first common electrode is located on the first and second source lines and extending toward a region between the first and second source lines so as to form an aperture portion. A transmissive pixel electrode is arranged in a pixel defined by the first gate line, the second gate line, the first source line and the second source line and electrically connected with a switching element. The transmissive pixel electrode includes a first end extending along the first and second source lines so as to face the first common electrode. A second substrate includes a second common electrode arranged facing the pixel electrode and set to the same potential as the first common electrode. A liquid crystal layer is held between vertical alignment films formed on the first substrate and the second substrate. |
US09448432B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
It is an object to provide a display having high visibility and a transflective type liquid crystal display device having a reflection electrode having a concavo-convex structure formed without especially increasing the process. During manufacturing a transflective liquid crystal display device, a reflection electrode of a plurality of irregularly arranged island-like patterns and a transparent electrode of a transparent conductive film are layered in forming an electrode having transparent and reflection electrodes thereby having a concavo-convex form to enhance the scattering ability of light and hence the visibility of display. Furthermore, because the plurality of irregularly arranged island-like patterns can be formed simultaneous with an interconnection, a concavo-convex structure can be formed during the manufacturing process without especially increasing the patterning process only for forming a concavo-convex structure. It is accordingly possible to greatly reduce cost and improve productivity. |
US09448428B2 |
System for stabilizing the temperature sensitivity in photonic circuits comprising thermoelastic optical circuit claddings
A system for stabilizing the temperature sensitivity in photonic circuits comprising a thermoelastic cladding directly overlaid on a photonic circuit, wherein the properties of the thermoelastic cladding are such that the temperature of the photonic circuit is passively stabilized, such as by adjustment of the effective refractive index of the photonic circuit. The thermoelastic cladding may comprise a negative thermo-optic coefficient and the photonic circuit has a positive thermo-elastic coefficient. The thermoelastic cladding may be a liquid, solid, or gas, and may be contained within a chamber having an inlet and an outlet. A pressure sensor may be contained within the chamber for monitoring pressure. The sensor can detect whether the fluid/gas has reached its maximum expansion and can send a signal when that happens. The pressure sensor is connected in a feedback loop and it sends an alarm once the chamber pressure is at a maximum. |
US09448426B2 |
Mach-zehnder modulator
A Mach-Zehnder modulator includes: a conductive semiconductor region disposed on a substrate; a first waveguide arm disposed on the conductive semiconductor region; a second waveguide arm disposed on the conductive semiconductor region; a first electrode disposed on the first waveguide arm, the first electrode receiving a first drive signal applied to the first waveguide arm; a second electrode disposed on the second waveguide arm, the second electrode receiving a second drive signal applied to the second waveguide arm; a first ground electrode disposed on the conductive semiconductor region, the first ground electrode being electrically connected to a reference potential; and a second ground electrode disposed on the conductive semiconductor region. The first and second drive signals constitute a differential signal. The second ground electrode is electrically connected to the first ground electrode via the conductive semiconductor region. |
US09448424B2 |
Optical module and optical modulation device
An optical module connected to an optical fiber for transmitting light includes: a substrate; a ferrule that is formed from a material capable of transmitting therethrough light having a predetermined wavelength, accommodates an end of the optical fiber, and is fixed on the substrate with a fixing agent cured by being irradiated with the light capable of passing through the material; and a semiconductor chip that is disposed on the substrate and modulates light emitted from the end of the optical fiber accommodated in the ferrule. |
US09448421B2 |
Ophthalmic lens system capable of communication between lenses utilizing a secondary external device
The present invention comprises an ophthalmic lens system capable of wireless communication through utilization of an external device, wherein the ophthalmic lens system comprises a first ophthalmic lens on a first eye and a second ophthalmic lens on a second eye, wherein the lenses may be configured to wirelessly communicate with each other by transmitting and receiving data through an external device. More particularly, in some embodiments, the external device may comprise electronic components with more computational power and energization capabilities than the ophthalmic lenses. |
US09448420B2 |
Eyeglasses temple
An eyeglasses temple comprises a first portion, having an end hingeable to a front rim of the eyeglasses and a fastening end, and a second portion, having an end designed to rest on a wearer's ear and a fastening end, the fastening ends being connectable by a snap-in connection; a first of the fastening ends comprises an elongate member extending in a longitudinal direction and having a tongue from which a tooth projects transversely to the longitudinal direction, the tongue being elastically deformable to allow the tooth to move in a locking direction transversal to the longitudinal direction; the second of the fastening ends comprises a socket having an opening to guide the insertion and extraction of the member into and from the socket in the longitudinal direction, and internally defines, on a wall which delimits the socket, a recess shaped to receive the tooth. |
US09448412B2 |
Color filter substrate, fabrication method thereof and display device
A color filter substrate, a fabrication method thereof, and a display device are provided. The color filter substrate includes: a substrate and a color filter film formed on a light incidence side of the substrate. At least one light refraction structure is continuously formed on a light incidence side of the color filter substrate, and each light refraction structure corresponds to a set of field of views (FOVs). The set of FOVs includes a left-eye FOV and a right-eye FOV, light rays from the left-eye FOV pass through a portion of the light refraction structure to which the left-eye FOV corresponds into a left-eye view zone, and light rays from the right-eye FOV pass through the other portion of the light refraction structure to which the right-eye FOV corresponds into a right-eye view zone. |
US09448410B2 |
Device for converting laser radiation into laser radiation having an M profile
The invention relates to a device for converting laser radiation (21) into laser radiation having an M profile, comprising separating means (34), which can separate the laser radiation (21) into at least two partial beams (22, 23) which, at least in some sections or partially, move in different directions or are arranged offset from one another, and optics means (38), which can introduce the at least two partial beams (22, 23) in a working plane and/or can, at least in some sections, superimpose the at least two partial beams (22, 23) in the working plane, wherein the separating means (34) comprise a lens array (39, 41) having at least two lenses (40, 42). |
US09448406B2 |
Image display systems
A user (18) views a reference symbol (36) along a line of sight (28) intersected by an image intensifier (22), arranged to present an intensified image of a forward scene (26) to the eye (24) of the user (18), and an image display (14), arranged to display an image to the eye (24) of the user (18) overlaid on the intensified image. The user indicates alignment of first and alternate symbols generated at known positions on the image display (14) with the reference symbol (36) and the position of a helmet (16) carrying the image display (14) is determined by a helmet tracking system (30) for each alignment. A line of sight can be determined for each symbol alignment given the helmet (16) position and known location of the first and alternate symbols. These lines of sight can be used to determine the magnification factor of the forward scene (26) induced by the image intensifier (20). Accordingly, symbology generated and displayed on the image display (14) can be compensated for relative to the magnification factor. |
US09448405B2 |
Head mounted display, motion detector, motion detection method, image presentation system and program
Disclosed herein is a head mounted display including: an enclosure accommodating a presentation section adapted to present a three-dimensional image and located in front of the eyes of a viewer when worn on the head of the viewer; and an imaging element provided in the enclosure and adapted to turn light external to the enclosure into an image, in which the imaging element images light that is vertically downward relative to the enclosure and forward in the direction of line of sight of the viewer when the enclosure is worn on the head of the viewer. |
US09448399B2 |
Electrowetting display device and manufacturing method thereof
A method of manufacturing an electrowetting display device includes forming a protection layer on a pixel electrode, forming a water-repellent layer on the protection layer, and removing the water-repellent layer from regions surrounding a display area of the pixel electrode. The water-repellent layer is formed by coating the protection layer with a hydrophilic material using a method such as slit coating. The water-repellent layer is removed using a method such as an edge bead removal method. The resulting water-repellent layer has a uniform thickness. |
US09448394B2 |
Arrayed dual axis confocal microscopes
Various aspects as described herein are directed to apparatuses, methods, and systems including a sandwiched arrangement having a light-access port, a scanning mirror, an optics region, and a spacer. The spacer provides a light-directing optical region that separates the scanning mirror and the optics region, and includes a mirrored surface that reflects light between the light-access port and the optics region. Additionally, the optics region includes a curved-shaped window that provides a field of view by communicating beams of light between a target region. The optics region also includes a curved-shaped mirror having a surface that reflects light between the scanning mirror and the mirrored surface. Light beams, as conveyed between the light-access port and the curved-shaped window, are folded by being reflected off the scanning mirror, the curved-shaped mirror and the mirrored surface. |
US09448389B1 |
Optical device having prism-shaped reflector directing opposing light paths onto an image sensor
A camera can include a housing, two lenses, a prism-shaped reflector, a reflector support surface, and an optical sensor. The two lenses are coupled to the housing in substantially opposing directions. The prism-shaped reflector has two parallel surfaces and three additional surfaces comprising: a first and a second reflective surfaces and a support plane. The reflector support surface is bonded to the prism-shaped reflector at the support plane. The optical sensor includes a surface upon which two non-overlapping image circles are concurrently projected; one from each of the two lenses. Each image circle results from a light path from a respective one of the two lenses being reflected off one of the first and second reflective surfaces onto the surface of the optical sensor. |
US09448387B2 |
Imaging lens
An imaging lens includes a first lens group having positive refractive power and a second lens group having negative refractive power, arranged in this order from an object side to an image plane side. The first lens group includes a first lens having positive refractive power, a second lens having positive refractive power, and a third lens having negative refractive power. The second lens group includes a fourth lens having positive refractive power, a fifth lens, and a sixth lens having negative refractive power. The first lens and second lens have specific focal lengths. The first to third lenses have specific Abbe's numbers. |
US09448386B2 |
Imaging lens
An imaging lens includes a first lens group having positive refractive power; a second lens group having negative refractive power; and a third lens group having negative refractive power, arranged in this order from an object side to an image plane side. The first lens group includes a first lens having positive refractive power, a second lens having negative refractive power, and a third lens having positive refractive power. The second lens group includes a fourth lens and a fifth lens. The third lens group includes a sixth lens having positive refractive power and a seventh lens having negative refractive power. The first to third lenses and the sixth to seventh lenses have specific Abbe's numbers. |
US09448383B2 |
Voice coil motor and driving method thereof
A voice coil motor (VCM) is disclosed, the VCM including: a stator including a magnet generating a first electromagnetic field; a mover including a bobbin formed with a hollow hole through which light passes and a coil formed on a periphery of the bobbin that generates a second electromagnetic field responsive to the first electromagnetic field; a base fixed at the stator and formed with an opening through which the light passes; and at least one elastic member elastically supporting the bobbin and forming a gap between the bobbin and the base when the coil is not applied with a current. |
US09448380B2 |
Optical fibre guiding
An assembly for guiding and protecting optical fiber cables or wave guides, which comprises a first number of first guide tubes and a second number of second guide tubes where each of the first and second guide tubes are adapted to receive an optical fiber cable along its complete length. The assembly further comprises an elongated first tubular shell, and an elongated second tubular shell where the first number of first guide tubes is supported within and in parallel relationship with the first tubular shell, and the second number of second guide tubes is supported within and in parallel relationship with the second tubular shell. The assembly further comprises a first connecting strip which interconnects the first and second tubular shells, which defines a separation between the first and second tubular shells, and which positions the first number of first guide tubes and the second number of second guide tubes in parallel. The first and second tubular shells and the first connecting strip originate from a single extrusion process which establishes an interference fitting between the first and second guide tubes and the first and second tubular shells, respectively. |
US09448376B2 |
High bandwidth push cables for video pipe inspection systems
High-bandwidth push cables configured for high speed data communication, such as that used in video signal transmission between a camera head and a cable reel or other device, are disclosed. |
US09448371B2 |
RFID-enabled optical adapter for use with a patch panel
One embodiment is directed to a system comprising a panel comprising a plurality of openings. The system is configured to selectively couple a panel contact for each opening to an RFID reader. The system further comprises a plurality of optical adapters. Each optical adapter comprises: at least one radio frequency identifier (RFID) antenna; at least one adapter contact that is electrically connected to the RFID antenna; and at least one conductor configured to electrically connect the adapter contact to respective one of respective panel contacts when the optical adapter is inserted into one of the openings of the panel. The RFID antenna of each connector is configured to be positioned near an RFID tag attached to the connector when the connector is inserted into the body of the optical adapter. The system is configured to selectively couple the RFID reader to each of the panel contacts. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
US09448370B2 |
Connector and connector assembly
A connector for coupling with an adapter, comprising: at least one connector body each having a first end capable of being inserted into the adapter; at least one locking mechanism; and a boot movably engaged with the connector body. Each of the at least one locking mechanism comprising: a slanting arm extending slantingly and upwardly from the respective connector body; at least one locking protrusion configured to extend from sides of the slanting arm to lock the connector body into locking grooves of the adapter; and a driving arm having a first end connected to the slanting arm. Wherein a second end of the driving arm is connected to the boot and is movable together with the boot to drive the slanting arm connected with the first end of the driving arm to approach a horizontal direction. When an angle between the slanting arm and the horizontal direction becomes smaller than a predetermined angle, the locking protrusion starts to be separated from the locking groove of the adapter, so that an interlock between the connector body and the adapter is unlocked. |
US09448369B1 |
Ingress protected optical fiber connector having small diameter (mini-IP connector)
An optical fiber connector including a connector housing having a front portion and a rear portion is disclosed. A ferrule is disposed in the connector housing such that it projects from the front portion of the connector housing. The rear portion of the connector housing includes a first channel configured to receive an optical fiber of an optical cable and to couple the optical fiber to the ferrule, and a second channel configured to receive a strength member of the optical cable. The optical fiber connector may be an ingress protected optical fiber connector, and may have an outside diameter less than about 15.8 mm, such as about 14 mm. |
US09448363B2 |
Device for compensation of time dispersion applied to the generation of ultrashort light pulses
The invention relates to a device for compensating the temporary scattering applied to the generation of ultra-short light pulses, said device including two identical and parallel optical diffraction gratings RA, RB and two identical prisms PA, PB that are placed inside the above-mentioned optical diffraction gratings RA, RB, given that the above-mentioned optical diffraction gratings RA, RB are volume phase gratings that function, during transmission, on the principle of Bragg diffraction. The outer surfaces FeA, FeB of the above-mentioned prisms PA, PB are parallel to the above-mentioned optical diffraction gratings RA, RB, and the inner surfaces FiA, FiB of the above-mentioned prisms PA, PB are parallel therebetween. |
US09448357B2 |
Illuminated facade arrangement
An illuminated window arrangement having insulating glazing is described. The illuminated window arrangement has: composite glass pane, at least one circumferential connection element between the composite glass pane and a lower pane, and LED housing fastened to a side edge of the lower pane, an LED printed circuit board fastened to the LED, an electrical connector fastened to the LED printed circuit board, and sheathing of the LED, the LED printed circuit board, and the electrical connector. |
US09448352B2 |
Surface light source apparatus having cut out portions where a reflecting portion is not present
A surface light source apparatus includes an end face for taking in light emitted from a light source and a main surface for emitting the light. The surface light source apparatus further includes a plurality of structure bodies formed on an opposed surface disposed opposite to the main surface in the surface light source apparatus, each of which has a reflecting surface facing the point light source. Each structure body has a cut-off portion which removes a portion on the reflecting surface in a longitudinal direction of the structure body and in a height direction. |
US09448349B2 |
Optical film and method of adjusting wavelength dispersion characteristics of the same
An optical film including at least one retardation film and at least one isotropic layer made of an isotropic material, wherein the difference in average refractive between the retardation film and the isotropic layer is at least 0.1 or more is provided. A method of adjusting wavelength dispersion characteristics of an optical film including stacking an isotropic layer onto a retardation film, and a method for preparing optical films having a variety of wavelength dispersion characteristics by coating the retardation film with the isotropic layer are provided. |
US09448348B2 |
Wire grid polarizer and organic light-emitting display apparatus including the same
An organic light-emitting display includes a display unit configured to generate an image and a wire grid polarizer on the display unit; the wire grid polarizer includes a base substrate and a plurality of wire grids formed on the base substrate, wherein the plurality of wire grids are spaced from one another and disposed in parallel, and a first spacing between each pair of the plurality of wire grids in a first region of the base substrate and a second spacing between each pair of the plurality of wire grids in a second region of the base substrate is different. |
US09448344B2 |
Color filter substrate and method of manufacturing the same
A color filter substrate includes a plurality of color filters and a first dummy pattern. The color filters are formed in a display area. The color filters include a plurality of colors. The first dummy pattern is formed in a peripheral area surrounding the display area. The first dummy pattern has a color identical to one of the colors. An edge portion of the first dummy pattern corresponding to an apex of the display area is rounded. Therefore, the reliability of a color filter manufacturing process may be improved, the reliability of the color filter may be improved, and the generation of stain defects having a radial shape may be prevented, so that display quality may be improved. |
US09448341B2 |
View angle-restriction sheet and flat panel display
The view angle-restricting sheet includes an optically functional layer including: a plurality of first light transmission sections that are rectangular in cross section and arranged in a multi-stripe fashion; and one or more second light transmission section(s) that is/are each arranged between adjacent first light transmission sections. The first light transmission sections contain a light diffusing agent and a resin matrix. The proportion of the surface area occupied by the first light transmission sections with respect to the surface area of the optically functional layer is no less than 5% and no greater than 40%. The ratio (T1/W1) of the thickness (T1) to the width (W1) of the first light transmission section is preferably no less than 4 and no greater than 40. The average distance between adjacent first light transmission sections is preferably no less than 6 μm and no greater than 400 μm. |
US09448338B2 |
Passively athermalized infrared imaging system and method of manufacturing same
In an embodiment, a method of aligning elements in a manufacturing process includes placing a middle element onto a base element, the base element forming first alignment features, the middle element forming apertures therethrough corresponding to the first alignment features. The method also includes placing second alignment features of an upper element onto the first alignment features such that the first and second alignment features cooperate, through the apertures, to align the upper element with the base element. An infrared lens assembly includes a lens formed of an infrared transmitting material that is disposed within a carrier of a base material, the lens being molded within the carrier with at least one feature that secures the lens to the carrier. |
US09448323B2 |
Device and method for detecting metallic contaminants in a product
A device and associated method for detecting metallic contaminants in a product using a signal received from a coil-based metal detector. A calibration module is configured to determine a product-specific, bowtie-shaped detection envelope based on calibration phase metal detector signals. A detection module is configured to compare, in a coordinate system for resistive and reactive components of a metal detector signal, a vector representation of the signal to the product-specific, bowtie-shaped detection envelope, and to indicate a presence of a metallic contaminant in the product when the vector representation of the signal extends to an area outside the bowtie-shaped detection envelope. |
US09448321B2 |
Torsional wave logging
A method for torsional wave logging in a borehole of a subterranean formation. The method includes obtaining a torsional wave measurement of the borehole, wherein the torsional wave measurement represents characteristics of a torsional wave propagating within a cylindrical layered structure associated with the borehole, wherein the cylindrical layered structure comprises the subterranean formation and a completion of the borehole, analyzing, by a computer processor, the torsional wave measurement to generate a quality measure of the completion, and displaying the quality measure of the completion. |
US09448310B2 |
Apparatus and method for spectrum estimation
Provided is an apparatus for spectrum estimation. The apparatus includes a threshold setter which sets at least one threshold in order to separate a spectrum into at least one energy bin; a reference value setter which sets one of the at least one threshold as a reference threshold; a threshold adjuster which adjusts the at least one threshold based on a predetermined condition; a comparer which compares the reference threshold with the adjusted threshold; and an output unit which outputs a spectrum in which the adjusted threshold is set, when a value which is determined based on the comparison result corresponds to a predetermined maximum value. |
US09448302B2 |
Method for operating a MIMO radar
In a method for operating a MIMO radar, an influence of an object motion on an angle estimate is substantially eliminated, and a time multiplex schema having a transmission sequence and transmission instants of transmitters of the MIMO radar is identified by optimizing the following mathematical relationship: d _ pulses , opt = arg max d _ pulses [ Var S ( d _ pulses ) - ( Cov S ( d _ pulses , t ) ) 2 / Var S ( t _ ) ] in which: dpulses,opt is optimized positions of the transmitters in the sequence in which they transmit; dpulses is positions of the transmitters in the sequence in which they transmit; t is transmission instants; VarS is sample variance; and CovS is sample covariance. |
US09448300B2 |
Signal-based data compression
Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods involving the detection of signal characteristics. As may be implemented in accordance with one or more embodiments, an apparatus includes a radar or sonar transceiver that transmits signals and receives reflections of the transmitted signals. A data compression circuit determines a compression factor based on characteristics of the signals, such as may relate to a channel over which the signal passes and/or related aspects of an object from which the signals are reflected (e.g., velocity, trajectory and distance). Data representing the signals is compressed as a function of the determined compression factor. |
US09448294B2 |
Cage in an MRD with a fastening/attenuating system
A cage with a fastening system (1) in a magnetic resonance device (MRD) is disclosed, said cage in an MRD comprising (a) M pole pieces (45) (M≧2); (b) N side magnets (20) (N≧2), said side magnets substantially enclosing said pole pieces and thereby defining a magnetic envelope and enclosed volume therein; (c) N side walls (10), said side walls substantially enclosing said side magnets; (d) P face walls (30) (P≧2); and (e) a plurality of fastening rods (100); wherein each of said fastening rods physically interconnects at least one pair of side walls, passing through at least one of said side magnets and at least one of said pole pieces. |
US09448293B2 |
System for communication usable by magnetic resonance and other imaging devices
An imaging apparatus and a method of controlling the same are disclosed. The imaging apparatus control method includes generating a pulse signal to an imaging unit, the imaging unit imaging an object to acquire an image signal of the object, generating an antiphase pulse signal based on the generated pulse signal, the antiphase pulse signal having an opposite phase to that of the pulse signal, and controlling a wireless communication unit based on the antiphase pulse signal, the wireless communication unit transmitting the image signal using a wireless communication network. |
US09448289B2 |
Background field removal method for MRI using projection onto dipole fields
For optimal image quality in susceptibility-weighted imaging and accurate quantification of susceptibility, it is necessary to isolate the local field generated by local magnetic sources (such as iron) from the background field that arises from imperfect shimming and variations in magnetic susceptibility of surrounding tissues (including air). We present a nonparametric background field removal method based on projection onto dipole fields in which the background field inside an ROI is decomposed into a field originating from dipoles outside the ROI using the projection theorem in Hilbert space. |
US09448288B2 |
Magnetic field sensor with improved accuracy resulting from a digital potentiometer
A magnetic field sensor with a plurality of magnetic field sensing elements is presented. The magnetic field sensor includes a sequences switches circuit to sequentially select from among the plurality of magnetic field signals. The magnetic field sensor further includes a memory device to store a plurality of potentiometer control values. Also included is a variable potentiometer to attenuate an offset of each one of the plurality of magnetic field signals by using a respective plurality of offset attenuation factors responsive to one or more of the plurality of potentiometer control values. A corresponding method is also described. |
US09448284B2 |
Method and apparatus for test time reduction using fractional data packing
An embodiment provides a circuit for testing an integrated circuit. The circuit includes an input converter that receives N scan inputs and generates M pseudo scan inputs, where M and N are integers. A scan compression architecture is coupled to the input converter and generates P pseudo scan outputs in response to the M pseudo scan inputs. An output converter is coupled to the scan compression architecture and generates Q scan outputs in response to the P pseudo scan outputs, wherein P and Q are integers. The input converter receives the N scan inputs at a first frequency and generates the M pseudo scan inputs at a second frequency and the output converter receives the P pseudo scan outputs at the second frequency and generates the Q scan outputs at the first frequency. |
US09448283B2 |
Circuit arrangement for logic built-in self-test of a semiconductor device and a method of operating such circuit arrangement
A circuit arrangement for Logic Built-In Self-Test (LBIST) includes a clock source configured to generate a system clock, a first clock division circuitry configured to derive a first punched-out clock and a plurality of scan chains operable at the first punched-out clock. Each scan chain has an associated output circuitry responsive to a leading edge of the first punched-out clock. The circuit arrangement includes a second clock division circuitry configured to derive a second punched-out clock. The second punched-out clock has a delay of one or more system clock periods relative to the first punched-out clock. A compacting logic is configured to compact signals received from the scan chains. A sequential retiming element connects the compacting logic to an input circuitry of a MISR. The sequential retiming element is responsive to a trailing edge of the second punched-out clock. The input circuitry is responsive to a leading edge of the second punched-out clock. |
US09448282B1 |
System and method for bit-wise selective masking of scan vectors for X-value tolerant built-in self test
A system and method are provided for selective bit-wise masking of X-values in scan channels in an integrated circuit (IC) during a built-in self test (BIST). The composite mask pattern is selectively generated according to locations of X-values identified in a simulation of the IC. The composite mask pattern is stored on the IC and cyclically maintained while being applied to the operational scan results of the IC. The composite mask pattern is recycled over a plurality of scan iterations to effectively prevent the X-values from influencing the resulting signature of the BIST that represents a functional fingerprint of the IC and minimize storage requirements for the composite mask pattern. |
US09448280B2 |
Circuit test system and method using a wideband multi-tone test signal
A testing system and method incorporate a test signal generator for generating a test signal with multiple tones uniformly distributed across a wideband having a specific bandwidth. This test signal is generated based on user-specified test signal parameter(s) (e.g., using an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) spread spectrum technique) and processed (e.g., converted from digital to analog or shifted to a different wideband having the same bandwidth), as necessary, so that it is suitable for application to a specific device under test and so that the tones account for the full range of frequencies with the wideband operation of that device under test. After it is applied to the device under test, the resulting output signal is captured, processed (e.g., converted back to digital or shifted back to the initial wideband), as necessary, and analyzed in order to determine the frequency responses associated with each of the tones. |
US09448279B2 |
Test systems for electronic devices with wireless communications capabilities
A test system may be provided for performing wireless communications testing of electronic devices in a building. The test system may include a mobile cart that transports the device under test to test stations in the building. The test system may include a visible guide track having visible test station indicators. The mobile cart may include an optical sensor for detecting the visible guide track and the visible test station indicators. The mobile cart may transport the device under test to the test stations along the visible guide track. The mobile cart may include a rotating stage to which the device under test may be mounted. The rotating stage may be used to rotate the device under test while the device under test transmits test data to wireless communications equipment in the building during wireless communications testing of the device under test. |
US09448276B2 |
Creation and scheduling of a decision and execution tree of a test cell controller
A method of testing a device. The method comprises determining a computational window. The computational window is a time period of device testing activity below an activity threshold. The at least one computational window occurs during the device testing activity. The method further comprises creating and executing a decision tree during the computational window. The decision tree comprises a scheduled test analysis of test results and a selection of test control actions scheduled to execute in response to the test analysis. |
US09448274B2 |
Circuitry to protect a test instrument
Controlling a test instrument may include: determining a first value corresponding to power output by the test instrument; determining a second value based on the first value, where the second value corresponds to an amount of energy consumed by the test instrument; and placing at least part of the test instrument in a high-impedance state when the second value exceeds a threshold. |
US09448273B2 |
Interface unit, conveying system and method
The invention relates to an interface unit, a conveying system and a method. The interface unit comprises an input circuit for the signal determining the safety of the conveying system. The interface unit further comprises means for testing the operating condition of the input circuit. |
US09448270B2 |
Pulse injection apparatus
A coupling clamp-type pulse injection apparatus, which can couple a high-voltage wideband pulse having a peak voltage of several tens of kV and having a rising time of several hundreds of ps or less to a cable without causing dielectric breakdown and a 50 ohm impedance mismatch, is provided. The pulse injection apparatus includes an input connector, an output connector, and a main body including an inner plate connected at a first end thereof to the input connector and at a second end thereof to the output connector, and a coupling plate connected to the inner plate and configured to fix a cable to the inner plate and to couple a high-power electromagnetic pulse input through the input connector to the cable. |
US09448269B2 |
Electrostatic detecting circuit and method thereof
An electronic detecting circuit includes at least one electrostatic protective module, at least one detection module, and a microprocessor controller module. The at least one detection module is respectively connected to the at least one electrostatic protective module, and the at least one detection module generates a driving record signal according to a driving state of the at least one electrostatic protective module. The microprocessor controller module is coupled with the at least one detection module, wherein the microprocessor controller module records the driving record signal when the at least one detection module transmits the driving record signal to the microprocessor controller module. |
US09448267B2 |
Noise measurement in capacitive touch sensors
In certain embodiments, an apparatus comprises a charge-measurement capacitor and circuitry. The circuitry is configured to provide a pre-determined amount of charge to the charge-measurement capacitor and transfer an accumulated amount of charge on a sense electrode to the charge-measurement capacitor, the accumulated amount of charge having accumulated on the sense electrode due at least in part to noise. The circuitry is configured measure a voltage of the charge-measurement capacitor to determine the accumulated amount of charge. |
US09448266B2 |
Method of measuring a physical parameter and electronic interface circuit for a capacitive sensor for implementing the same
The method is for measuring a physical parameter via an electronic circuit connected to a two differential capacitor sensor having two fixed electrodes and a common moving electrode. The circuit supplies first and second digital measuring signals. Each measuring cycle consists on biasing fixed electrodes by a first biasing and a second biasing reverse of the first biasing, alternated with biasing the electrodes by the measuring voltage based on first and second digital signals. Each conversion starts by a small step value added to or subtracted from each digital signal in each cycle. If the successive identical amplifier output states counted or counted down by a counter is higher than a threshold, a large step value is added to or subtracted from the digital signals in each cycle. Re-adaptation to the small step value occurs when a sign change is detected in the counter, until the conversion end. |
US09448264B2 |
Using load-side voltage and an auxiliary switch to confirm the close or open status of a meter disconnect switch
The invention relates to a method and system for secure confirmation of the status of a metering disconnect switch. By utilizing both a mechanical auxiliary switch and the reading of a load-side voltage immediately after a switch operation, a nearly certain decision can be achieved that the state of the relay is accurately known. This invention will prevent a motorized or solenoid driven switch operator from achieving a close or open state of the switch that otherwise could be uncertain. |
US09448259B2 |
Apparatuses and methods to distinguish proprietary, non-floating and floating chargers for regulating charging currents
Apparatuses and methods to distinguish proprietary, non-floating and floating chargers for regulating charging current are disclosed. In one aspect, a charger detection circuit is provided in a portable electronic device. The charger detection circuit is configured to detect whether a connected Universal Serial Bus (USB) charger is compliant with a USB battery charging specification. If the connected USB charger is non-compliant with the USB battery charging specification, the charger detection circuit is configured to further detect if the non-complaint USB charger is a non-compliant floating USB charger or a non-compliant proprietary USB charger. If the connected USB charger is determined to be a non-compliant proprietary USB charger, the portable electronic device can be configured to draw up to a maximum charging current according to the USB battery charging specification. |
US09448256B2 |
Current sensor substrate and current sensor
It is intended to reduce manufacturing cost in a current sensor including a primary conductor having a U-shaped current path. A current sensor includes a primary conductor having a U-shaped current path, a support portion for supporting a magneto-electric conversion element, and a lead terminal connected to the support portion, and wherein the current path is not overlapped with the support portion in a plan view, while being formed so as to have a height different from that of the support portion in a side view. |
US09448255B2 |
Capacitance detection device
According to one embodiment, a capacitance detection device includes a switched capacitor amplifying circuit including a variable capacitor and a reference capacitor, and a voltage applying circuit configured to apply, to the switched capacitor amplifying circuit, a reference voltage having a temperature characteristic for compensating fluctuation in an output voltage of the switched capacitor amplifying circuit due to a temperature characteristic of capacitance of the variable capacitor. |
US09448254B2 |
Touch controlled ESD tester
The invention is an apparatus and a process, the apparatus of the invention is an intelligent system configured to test the efficacy of electrostatic discharge devices that includes a touch screen display, a microcomputer, and resident persistent non-volatile memory. Preferred embodiments use the persistent resident memory to store a plurality of test data from a plurality of tests correlated as a data base. The apparatus of the invention in certain embodiments operates as a WEB host wherein remote users may view ESD test data in various ways. The process of the invention relates to the configuration of the apparatus of the invention to at least display test data from a plurality of electrostatic dissipation device tests. The process of the invention may also include the configuration of test settings, or email notification metrics. |
US09448253B2 |
Determining a state of a high aspect ratio hole using measurement results from an electrostatic measurement device
A system, method and a non-transitory compute readable medium for evaluating a high aspect ratio (HAR) hole having a nanometric scale width and formed in a substrate, including obtaining, during an illumination period, multiple measurement results by an electrostatic measurement device that comprises a probe tip that is placed in proximity to the HAR hole; wherein multiple locations within the HAR hole are illuminated with a beam of charged particles during the illumination period; and processing the multiple measurement results to determine a state of the HAR hole. |
US09448252B2 |
Chemical nano-identification of a sample using normalized near-field spectroscopy
Apparatus and method for nano-identification a sample by measuring, with the use of evanescent waves, optical spectra of near-field interaction between the sample and optical nanoantenna oscillating at nano-distance above the sample and discriminating background backscattered radiation not sensitive to such near-field interaction. Discrimination may be effectuated by optical data acquisition at periodically repeated moments of nanoantenna oscillation without knowledge of distance separating nanoantenna and sample. Measurement includes chemical identification of sample on nano-scale, during which absolute value of phase corresponding to near-field radiation representing said interaction is measured directly, without offset. Calibration of apparatus and measurement is provided by performing, prior to sample measurement, a reference measurement of reference sample having known index of refraction. Nano-identification is realized with sub-50 nm resolution and optionally, in the mid-infrared portion of the spectrum. |
US09448248B2 |
Method and system for fluid surface detection
The present invention pertains to a method for detecting a fluid surface, comprising the following steps: providing at least one probe having an electric capacitance with respect to its surroundings; moving the probe into or out of a fluid; charging the probe by applying a periodic first electric signal to the probe for activating the probe; applying a periodic third electric signal to one or more electrically conductive regions different from the probe simultaneously with applying the first electric signal to the probe, wherein the third electric signal corresponds to the first electric signal or an amplified/damped first electric signal; at least partially discharging the probe so as to obtain a discharging current; detecting a second electric signal based on the discharging current; analyzing the second electric signal or a signal derived from the second electric signal with respect to the capacitance of the probe; identifying the fluid surface of the fluid based on a change of the capacitance of the probe. It further relates to a corresponding system adapted to perform the method. |
US09448247B2 |
Blood sample processing apparatus and blood sample processing method
A blood sample processing apparatus including: a container holder securing a sample container that contains a blood sample, the sample container having a lid, the container holder coupled to a rotation driver that longitudinally rotates the sample container; and a controller that commands the rotation driver to repeatedly perform an inclining-stirring operation that includes a first process and a second process, wherein in the first process, the sample container is initially held in an upright position by the container holder and then rotated to an inclined position, and in the second process, the inclined sample container is returned to the upright position, and wherein in a final inclining-stirring operation, the second process is carried out for a longer time than previous second processes. |
US09448246B2 |
Integrated sequential sample preparation system
The invention provides an integrated sequential sample preparation system using a sequential centrifuge for preparing samples for analysis. Methods of more efficiently preparing discrete samples sequentially for subsequent analysis are also provided. The apparatus and methods for sequentially preparing discrete samples provide improved operating efficiencies over conventional preparation processes that use batch centrifugation systems. Such advantages include reducing dwell time, increasing system throughput, reducing sample preparation system footprint, and improving precision of the analytical process. The integrated sequential preparation system with the integrated sequential centrifuge further provides the capability of handling critical or STAT samples without compromising the operating efficiencies achieved by preparing discrete samples in a sequential manner. |
US09448242B2 |
Use of K2P potassium channel activators as antalgics
The present invention relates to treating and preventing pain. More particularly the present invention demonstrates the involvement of K2P potassium channels in the antalgic effect of morphine. The present invention therefore provides a screening method for identifying antalgics. |
US09448234B2 |
Therapeutic agent for preterm delivery or abortion using plasminogen activator inhibitor-1
A method for diagnosing a risk for preterm delivery or miscarriage in a pregnant woman and preventing preterm delivery or miscarriage in the pregnant woman who has been determined to have the risk is provided. The method includes measuring plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 activity or level in plasma isolated from a pregnant woman. The method also includes determining that the pregnant woman has a risk for preterm delivery or miscarriage when the activity or the level is lower than that in the plasma of a normal pregnant woman. The method also includes administering plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 to the pregnant woman who has been determined to have the risk. A kit for the diagnosis of the degree of risk for preterm delivery or miscarriage also is provided. A pharmaceutical composition for the prevention of preterm delivery or miscarriage, comprising plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, also is provided. |
US09448231B2 |
Application of quantum dots for nuclear staining
Embodiments of a system, method, and kit for visualizing a nucleus are disclosed. A tissue sample is pretreated with a protease to permeabilize the nucleus, and then incubated with a nanoparticle/DNA-binding moiety conjugate. The DNA-binding moiety includes at least one DNA-binding molecule. The conjugate binds to DNA within the nucleus, and the nanoparticle is visualized, thereby visualizing the nucleus. Computer and image analysis techniques are used to evaluate nuclear features such as chromosomal distribution, ploidy, shape, size, texture features, and/or contextual features. The method may be used in combination with other multiplexed tests on the tissue sample, including fluorescence in situ hybridization. Kits for performing the method include a protease enzyme composition, a nanoparticle/DNA-binding moiety conjugate, and a reaction buffer. |
US09448228B2 |
Cell analyzing apparatus and cell analyzing method
A cell analyzing apparatus includes: a histogram acquirer which is configured to perform measurement of a number of nuclear stained cells, and which, by using a result of the measurement, is configured to acquire a histogram indicating a fluorescence intensity; and an analysis controller which is configured to apply frequency analysis on data of the histogram acquired by the histogram acquirer, and which is configured to determine existence/nonexistence of cancer cells based on a result of the frequency analysis. |
US09448227B2 |
Anuran cross-species molecular sensors
Described herein are DNA primer sequences designed for the determination of gene or transcript information from Anuran species, and which may be used in studies for developmental and/or toxicity testing and for environmental toxicology or ecological assessment. Also described herein is a rapid, sensitive, high-throughput assay useful for supporting potential risk assessment across vertebrate clades, and that is also useful for evaluation of complex contaminant mixtures. |
US09448226B2 |
Method of toxicological evaluation, method of toxicological screening and associated system
The present invention relates to a method of toxicological evaluation of a candidate substance on at least one tissue or organ, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: (a) obtaining a bioartificial tissue or organ by simulation or modelling of the metabolic activity of said tissue or organ by at least one bioreactor; (b) exposure of said bioartificial tissue or organ to said substance; (c) observation of the metabolic response of the bioartificial tissue or organ and acquisition without a priori of an associated multidimensional data set; (d) identification by means of a method of multivariate statistical analysis of the components of the multidimensional data set which are quantitatively correlated with predetermined variables; (e) generation of a predictive model on the basis of the components of the data set that are actually retained; (f) testing of the predictive nature of said model by at least one statistical method of estimating reliability; (g) identification of the metabolic response of the bioartificial tissue or organ in the form of biomarkers associated with the components of the data set that are adopted for the model. The present invention also relates to a method of toxicological screening and to a system for this purpose. |
US09448222B2 |
Method and system for providing an assembly of an amount of used plastic material and an information carrier carrying quality data of the amount
Method for providing an assembly of an amount of used plastic material and an information carrier carrying data of at least one quality property of the amount of used plastic material, wherein providing the data of the at least one quality property comprises at least once: providing a predetermined amount of used plastic material; labelling the predetermined amount of used plastic material; and determining at least one quality property of the predetermined amount of used plastic material. A system for providing an assembly of an amount of used plastic material and data of at least one quality property of the amount of used plastic material, wherein the system comprises: a feeder for providing used plastic material; at least one quantity measuring system; a rheology measuring system; and an information carrier. |
US09448220B2 |
Spectrometric device for the analysis of environmental and geological samples
A system and method for analyzing contaminants such as hydrocarbons in soil and ground water utilizes a reaction device comprising a catalyst encapsulated in a permeable material and processes that device in contact with a contaminant in an analytical device in order to generate a spectrogram indicative of the contaminants in the soil and ground water. |
US09448206B2 |
Device for detection of defects in a recess
The invention relates to a device for the detection of defects in a recess, comprising a longitudinal hollow body (107), a movement conversion means (109) housed in said body (107) and installed free to move along the longitudinal direction, and at least one sensor (11) coupled to said body (107) and to said conversion means (109) such that longitudinal translation of the conversion means will move said sensor (11) in transverse translation between a retracted position and an extended position. |
US09448205B2 |
Coil arrangement for a magnetic induction impedance measurement apparatus comprising a partly compensated magnetic excitation field in the detection coil
A coil arrangement for a magnetic induction impedance measurement apparatus includes an excitation coil configured to generate a magnetic excitation field in an object, a shimming coil configured to generate a shimming field, and a detection coil configured to detect a magnetic response field generated in response to the magnetic excitation field inducing a current in the object. In order to enhance an accuracy of a determination of a parameter of an object, a value of a field strength of a net magnetic excitation field in the detection coil, being the sum of the excitation field and the shimming field, is approximately within a magnitude range of an average value of a field strength of the magnetic response field in the detection coil. |
US09448203B2 |
Cleaning of corona discharge ion source
Systems and techniques for cleaning a corona discharge point are described. A controller (150) can be operatively coupled to a corona discharge point (108) to control the operation of the corona discharge point (1089. The controller (150) and the corona discharge point (108) can be included with, for example, an ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) system (100). The controller (150) can be used to operate the corona discharge point (108) at an operating voltage for a first time interval, with or without an additional higher pulse voltage, to produce a corona discharge, and to operate the corona discharge point (108) at a cleaning voltage greater than the operating voltage for a second time interval subsequent to the first time interval to produce a corona discharge. The effectiveness of the corona discharge point (108) can be monitored by, for instance, measuring a voltage necessary to produce a corona discharge at the corona discharge point (108), measuring a current produced at the corona discharge point (108) from a corona discharge, and so forth. |
US09448200B2 |
Process for sensing at least one parameter in water
Apparatus (2) for sensing at least one parameter in water, which apparatus (2) comprises: (i) a dissolved oxygen sensor (4) for sensing dissolved oxygen in the water; and which apparatus (2) is such that: (ii) the dissolved oxygen sensor (4) has a working electrode and a reference electrode; and (iii) a voltage signal is applied between the working electrode and the reference electrode, and the voltage signal provides a conditioning waveform, then a wait time, and then a measurement function. |
US09448198B2 |
Microsensor with integrated temperature control
Microsensors that include an integrated thermal energy source and an integrated temperature sensor are capable of providing localized heating and temperature control of individual sensing regions within the microsensor. Localized temperature control allows analyte detection to be carried out at the same temperatures or substantially the same temperatures at which the sensor is calibrated. By carrying out the sensing near the calibration temperature, more accurate results can be obtained. In addition, the temperature of the sensing region can be controlled so that chemical reactions involving the analyte in the sensing region occur near their peak reaction rate. Carrying out the sensing near the peak reaction rate improves the sensitivity of the sensor which is important as sensor dimensions decrease and the magnitude of the generated signals decreases. |
US09448197B2 |
Marker for readings taken from alternative site tests
A meter for determining the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample comprises a memory device, electrical circuitry and a detection device for distinguishing between an alternative site test and a standard site test. The memory device is adapted to store information. The electrical circuitry is adapted to determine the analyte concentration of the fluid sample located on a test sensor. The electrical circuitry is in electronic communication with the memory device. The electrical circuitry communicates the determined analyte concentration to the memory device for storage. |
US09448190B2 |
High brightness X-ray absorption spectroscopy system
This disclosure presents systems for x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements that have x-ray flux and flux density several orders of magnitude greater than existing compact systems. These are useful for laboratory or field applications of x-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES) or extended x-ray fine absorption structure (EXFAS) spectroscopy. The higher brightness is achieved by using designs for x-ray targets that comprise a number of aligned microstructures of x-ray generating materials fabricated in close thermal contact with a substrate having high thermal conductivity. This allows for bombardment with higher electron density and/or higher energy electrons, leading to greater x-ray brightness and high flux. The high brightness x-ray source is then coupled to an x-ray reflecting optical system to collimate the x-rays, and a monochromator, which selects the exposure energy. Absorption spectra of samples using the high flux monochromatic x-rays can be made using standard detection techniques. |
US09448187B2 |
Imaging using probes
Methods and systems may image an object of interest using one or more probes. More specifically, such exemplary methods and systems may deliver electromagnetic energy (e.g., microwave energy) using a transmitting antenna to the object while activating a probe to interact with the scattered field and sampling the resulting scattered field using one or more receiving antennas. The sampled electromagnetic energy may then be used to reconstruct an image of the object. |
US09448186B2 |
System and method for determining a concentration of gas in a confined space
A system for determining a concentration of gas in a confined space includes a first frequency generator for generating a first RF signal. A first antenna transmits the first RF signal across the confined space and second antenna receives the first RF signal. First and second RF signal power detectors detect the power of the first RF signal both prior to and after transmission through the confined space. A first comparator circuit determines a concentration of oxygen in the confined space based on the power of the first RF signal prior to transmission through the confined space and the power of the first RF signal received by the second antenna. |
US09448183B2 |
Avionic display testing system
A method and apparatus for testing a number of display devices. Images displayed on the number of display devices are received by a computer system for a platform during a performance of a number of tests at a number of test locations for the platform. A portion of the images from the images are identified as a number of images of interest using a policy. |
US09448176B2 |
Variable wavelength interference filter, optical filter device, optical module, and electronic apparatus
A variable wavelength interference filter includes a stationary substrate, a movable substrate bonded to the stationary substrate, a stationary reflecting film provided to the stationary substrate, a movable reflecting film provided to the movable substrate, and opposed to the stationary reflecting film across an inter-reflecting film gap, and an electrostatic actuator adapted to vary the gap amount of the inter-reflecting film gap by deflecting the movable substrate toward the stationary substrate, a releasing space to which air between the stationary reflecting film and the movable reflecting film moves when the gap amount of the inter-reflecting film gap is reduced is provided between the stationary substrate and the movable substrate, and assuming that a spring constant of the movable substrate is kv, and a spring constant of the air existing in the inter-reflecting film gap is kair, kv≧20×kair is satisfied. |
US09448172B2 |
Selection by compartmentalised screening
The invention describes a method for the identification of compounds which bind to a target component of a biochemical system or modulate the activity of the target, comprising the steps of: a.) compartmentalizing the compounds into microcapsules together with the target, such that only a subset of the repertoire is represented in multiple copies in any one microcapsules; and b.) identifying the compound which binds to or modulates the activity of the target. The invention enables the screening of large repertoires of molecules which can serve as leads for drug development. |
US09448168B2 |
Particle detectors
A beam detector including a light source, a receiver, and a target, acting in cooperation to detect particles in a monitored area. The target reflects incident light, resulting in reflected light being returned to receiver. The receiver is capable of recording and reporting light intensity at a plurality of points across its field of view. In the preferred form the detector emits a first light beam in a first wavelength band; a second light beam in a second wavelength band; and a third light beam in a third wavelength band, wherein the first and second wavelengths bands are substantially equal and are different to the third wavelength band. |
US09448166B1 |
Methods and apparatus for the measurement of malt beverages
A method is provided for determining a physical property of a malt beverage sample. The method includes measuring a refractive index of the malt beverage sample. The method further includes determining a temperature-compensated measured refractive index by temperature correcting the measured refractive index relative to a predetermined reference temperature. The temperature correcting is specific to the total dissolved solids of the malt beverage sample. The method also includes converting the temperature-compensated measured refractive index to a unit of measurement. The unit of measurement relates to a physical property of the malt beverage sample. Apparatus are also provided. |
US09448162B2 |
Time-resolved single-photon or ultra-weak light multi-dimensional imaging spectrum system and method
A single-photon or ultra-weak light multi-D imaging spectral system and method. In order to realize rough time resolution, a time-resolved single-photon counting 2D imaging system for forming color or grey imaging is provided. Moreover, in order to realize high-precision time resolution, the system comprises a light source, an imaging spectral measurement unit, an electric detection unit, a system control unit and an algorithm unit. The light carrying information of an object is imaged on a spatial light modulator and randomly modulated according to compressed sensing theory, emergent light of a grating is collected using a point or array single-photon detector, the number of photons and photon arrival time are recorded, and reconstruction is carried out using the compressed sensing algorithm and related algorithm of the spectral imaging. The system provides single-photon detection sensitivity, high time resolution and wide spectral range, and can be applied in numerous new high-tech industries. |
US09448161B2 |
Optical device, particularly a polarimeter, for detecting inhomogeneities in a sample
An optical device, particularly a polarimeter, is provided for analyzing a liquid sample, having: a light-generating system for generating light for the surface irradiation of the sample; a detection system which is set up for the spatially resolved detection of light which originates from the transmission of the light provided for the surface irradiation through the sample; a telecentric optical system with a lens between the sample and the detection system and with an aperture diaphragm in the focal plane of the lens between the lens and the detection system. |
US09448157B2 |
Microparticle sorting apparatus, microchip for sorting microparticles and microparticle sorting method
There is provided a microparticle sorting apparatus including a main channel through which a fluid including microparticles flows, a branch channel that is in communication with the main channel, an actuator that causes a negative pressure to be generated in the branch channel, and a drive unit that controls a voltage applied to the actuator to cause a change in pressure containing a step waveform component and an undershoot waveform component in the branch channel. |
US09448154B2 |
Systems and methods for testing ignition properties of particles
Systems and methods for testing ignition properties of particles in a gas. Systems include a test chamber sized to hold a particle to be tested, a gas supply configured to deliver a gas to the test chamber, a heating device configured to heat the particle, and data acquisition equipment configured to collect data associated with the particle and/or the gas. Methods include generating a flow of gas around a particle that is fixed in space relative to the flow of gas in a test chamber, heating the particle and/or heating the gas, and collecting data associated with the particle and/or the gas. |
US09448153B2 |
Semiconductor analysis microchip and method of manufacturing the same
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor analysis microchip configured to detect a fine particle in a sample liquid, including a semiconductor substrate, a first flow channel provided in the semiconductor substrate, to which the sample liquid is introduced, and a pore provided in the first flow channel and configured to pass the fine particle in the sample liquid. |
US09448152B2 |
Suspended solids test device and method
A Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Device which includes a plurality of calibrated sample containers in a case, such that each calibrated sample container contains a calibrated sample, wherein each calibrated sample is a sample with a known suspended solids concentration prepared from a site sample, such that said TSS device is configured to allow a discharge sample in a discharge sample container to be visually compared to each of the calibrated samples in the calibrated sample containers in said case, where the discharge sample is a sample of a liquid discharge from a site. |
US09448151B2 |
Apparatus and method for platelet monitoring and for assessing the quality of platelets
Apparatus and methods for monitoring platelet quality are disclosed. A bag of platelet concentrate is oriented in a desired manner on a transparent surface that is illuminated from one side with a light source. A clamp applies pressure to a desired portion of the bag to temporarily manipulate a predetermined portion of the bag and therefore the fluid in the bag in a known and repeatable manner. A flow inducing member applies pressure to the bag to thereby cause a turbulent flow of the fluid from the bag through a flow path. A detector records optical characteristics of light diffracted by the flowing particles, which is analyzed by software to derive a score correlating to the quality of the platelets. Platelet swirl is scored as a measure of platelet quality where more resting, discoid platelets result in a higher score. |
US09448150B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining kinematic viscosity through the transmission and reception of ultrasonic energy
An apparatus for determining a fluid's kinematic viscosity from ultrasonic energy that has passed through the fluid of unknown viscosity along an acoustic path of known length. A computer of the apparatus determines a characteristic frequency of a received electrical signal associated with the ultrasonic energy and measures the fluid's velocity of sound. The kinematic viscosity of the fluid is determined by the computer on a continuous basis based on the characteristic frequency and the sound velocity. A method for determining a fluid's kinematic viscosity. |
US09448148B2 |
Rolling weight deflectometer
A device for measuring the deflection of pavement under an applied load includes a longitudinally extending member mounted on a mobile carriage. A load wheel is mounted near the first end of the longitudinally extending member below a load platform. A first distance sensor is mounted near the load wheel to measure the depth of a deflection basin created by the wheel at a target location disposed on the pavement. A second distance sensor mounted at a predetermined distance from the first sensor to measure distance to the target location when the second distance sensor is positioned proximate to the target location. The device further includes a target designator for designating the target location and a target detector for detecting a position of the target location. |
US09448147B2 |
Multi-dimensional chromatographic methods for separating N-glycans
A multi-dimensional chromatographic method for the separation of N-glycans. The method comprises providing a glycan preparation that includes at least one negatively charged N-glycan. The glycan preparation is then separated by anion-exchange chromatography and at least one secondary chromatographic technique. |
US09448143B2 |
Device for removing samples from a material flow
In a device for taking samples from a material flow of fine-grained and dry material, in particular in the cement industry, comprising an upwardly open sample chamber (2) capable of being introduced into, and retracted from, the material flow through an introduction socket, the sample chamber (2) is formed in a rod-shaped body (1) translationally guided between a sampling position and a retracted position, and the sample chamber (2) has an openable bottom (7). |
US09448141B2 |
Automated seed sampler and methods of sampling, testing and bulking seeds
An automated system for sampling seeds generally includes an automated sampling station having a seed feeder and a seed sampler. The seed feeder is configured to deliver seeds to the seed sampler, and the seed sampler is configured to remove material from the seeds without substantially adversely affecting the germination viability of the sampled seeds. The system also includes a sample handling station configured to receive the material removed from the seeds, and a seed handling station configured to receive the sampled seeds after the material is removed from the seeds such that the relationship between the material removed from the seeds and the respective seeds can be determined. |
US09448139B2 |
Method, control unit, and system for determining a parameter that indicates a state of at least one component of a motor vehicle
A method determines a parameter that indicates a state of at least one component of a motor vehicle. The method contains the now described steps. A plurality of values of an instantaneous vertical acceleration of a sub-region of a wheel of the motor vehicle is determined during operation of the motor vehicle by use of at least one sensor arranged in the region of the wheel. In addition, a degree of a mechanical load on at least one component of the motor vehicle is determined on the basis of the determined values of the instantaneous vertical acceleration. |
US09448137B2 |
Test system
A test system includes an actual machine including a test piece that is a mechanical element of a vehicle, the actual machine being installed in a first location; a control device that is installed in the first location, and controls the actual machine; a model installed in a second location away from the first location; and a data processor that is installed in the second location, and is connected to the actual machine or the control device via a communication line so that data communication is performed, the data processor acquiring data from the actual machine via the communication line so that an operation test is performed. The data processor calculates a target value for controlling the actual machine based on an output acquired by inputting the acquired data to the model, and the control device controls the actual machine based on the target value. |
US09448132B2 |
System and method for monitoring seals between a stationary conduit and a rotating conduit
A device for monitoring a seal assembly includes a body having a central axis and a through-passage, a piston slidably disposed in the through-passage and biased towards one end of the body by a biasing member, and a signaling assembly coupled to the body. The signaling assembly includes an indicator and a switch coupled to the indicator. The through-passage and the piston are exposed to a fluid pressure in the seal assembly. The piston is configured to translate axially in the through-passage to transition the switch between a first position and a second position, allowing the switch to transition the indicator between a deactivated state and an activated state. |
US09448129B2 |
Torque sensor unit
Disclosed is a torque sensor unit including a magnetic member fixed to a first output shaft member, a pair of first and second yoke members fixed to an input shaft member and surrounding an outer circumferential side of the magnetic member and a magnetic sensor adapted to detect a magnetic flux passing through between the yoke members. The magnetic member is provided with a sleeve and a permanent magnet. The sleeve is formed of a metal material in a substantially cylindrical shape and has a plurality of radially extending support portions and a plurality of axially extending engagement protrusions between the support portions. The permanent magnet is formed into an annular shape and has a plurality of axially extending engagement grooves cut in an inner circumferential surface thereof. The permanent magnet and the sleeve are coupled via a resin-based filling material. |
US09448128B2 |
Force torque sensor, force torque sensor frame, and force torque measurement method
The present invention relates to a force torque sensor, a force torque sensor frame, and a force torque measurement method. The force torque sensor includes a central hub, a plurality of beams each having one side connected to the hub, and a rim connected to the other side of each beam to surround the hub and the plurality of beams. The force torque measurement method includes: a step of forming a gradient shape in a longitudinal direction thereof so that a section is provided in which a strain rate on each of the beams due to a force or torque is maintained within a predetermined value; and a step of measuring a strain rate in X-axis, Y-axis, or Z-axis directions after a strain gauge is attached to a corresponding section. Thus, a measurement center of the strain gauge may be positioned within a predetermined section. |
US09448127B2 |
Device for measuring pressure from a flexible, pliable, and/or extensible object made from a textile material comprising a measurement device
A device and method for measuring the pressure exerted at different points of a flexible, pliable and/or extensible fabric capable of being worn as a garment, lapel, or the like, which provides three stacked layers including a first insulating layer comprising an arrangement of insulating fibers and at least one row of at least one conductive yarn in contact with a first surface of a piezoresistive layer of fibers of a piezoresistive material, and a second insulating layer comprising an arrangement of insulating fibers, including at least one row of at least one conductive yarn, in contact with a second surface of the piezoresistive layer, and an electronic circuit capable of measuring the electric resistance variation when a pressure is exerted on the fabric, the pressure being a function of the resistance variation. |
US09448126B2 |
Single diaphragm transducer structure
A transducer structure including a carrier with an opening and a suspended structure mounted on the carrier which extends at least partially over the opening in the carrier is disclosed. The transducer structure may further include configuring the suspended structure to provide an electrostatic field between the suspended structure and the carrier by changing a distance between the suspended structure and the carrier. Alternatively, the suspended structure may be configured to change the distance between the suspended structure and the carrier in response to an electrostatic force provided between the suspended structure and the carrier. |
US09448121B2 |
Measurement method, measurement apparatus, and computer program product
A measurement method, a measurement apparatus, and a computer program product for measuring a thermoelectric module are provided. A temperature is provided to the thermoelectric module. A current is applied to the thermoelectric module to turn both sides of the thermoelectric module into a hot side and a cold side. The temperature of the hot side is higher than that of the cold side. A terminal voltage of the thermoelectric module, a hot side temperature of the hot side, and a cold side temperature of the cold side are measured at different time points. A thermoelectric relationship between the terminal voltages and differences between the hot side temperatures and the corresponding cold side temperatures is obtained according to the terminal voltages, the hot side temperatures, and the cold side temperatures. At least one first parameter of the thermoelectric module is estimated according to the thermoelectric relationship. |
US09448120B2 |
Method for adjusting compensating optical system and compensating optical system
A positional deviation between a phase distribution in a wavefront sensor and a compensation phase pattern in a wavefront modulator is corrected in a short time and with high accuracy by a method including a first step of causing the wavefront modulator to display a singularity generation pattern, a second step of measuring in the sensor an adjustment wavefront shape when an optical image modulated by the singularity generation pattern enters the wavefront sensor, a third step of detecting a position of a singularity in the adjustment wavefront shape from a measurement result in the sensor, and a fourth step of adjusting a positional deviation between a wavefront shape measured in the wavefront sensor and a compensation pattern displayed on the wavefront modulator based on a positional deviation of the position of the singularity. |
US09448117B2 |
Infrared thermometer
An infrared thermometer includes a proximity sensor, an infrared sensor and a micro controller unit. The micro controller unit determines whether or not the infrared thermometer has contact with an object to be measured, using the proximity sensor. The micro controller unit measures the amount of infrared radiation using the infrared sensor at a time when determining that the infrared thermometer has contact with the object to be measured. The micro controller unit calculates a temperature of the object to be measured, based on the amount of infrared radiation. |
US09448114B2 |
Spectrometry system with diffuser having output profile independent of angle of incidence and filters
A spectrometer comprises a plurality of isolated optical channels comprising a plurality of isolated optical paths. The isolated optical paths decrease cross-talk among the optical paths and allow the spectrometer to have a decreased length with increased resolution. In many embodiments, the isolated optical paths comprise isolated parallel optical paths that allow the length of the device to be decreased substantially. In many embodiments, each isolated optical path extends from a filter of a filter array, through a lens of a lens array, through a channel of a support array, to a region of a sensor array. Each region of the sensor array comprises a plurality of sensor elements in which a location of the sensor element corresponds to the wavelength of light received based on an angle of light received at the location, the focal length of the lens and the central wavelength of the filter. |
US09448111B2 |
Spectral detection device for detecting spectral components of received light
The present invention relates to a spectral detection device (100) for detecting spectral components of received light, wherein the spectral detection device (100) comprises a filtering structure (110) arranged to filter the received light and output light with a wavelength within a predetermined wavelength range; and a light sensor (120) arranged to detect the light output by the filtering structure (110), wherein the filtering structure (110) is variable to allow a variation of the predetermined wavelength range over time.The arrangement enables a compact spectral detection device that may be provided at a low cost. |
US09448105B2 |
Optical sensor
An optical sensor is disclosed for measuring pressure and/or temperature. The optical sensor is adapted for use in high temperature environments, such as gas turbines and other engines. The optical sensor comprises an optical assembly having a sensor element, a spacer and a lens arranged along the optical axis. The sensor element is spaced from the lens by the spacer. An optical fiber is coupled to the optical assembly for illuminating the sensor element. The optical assembly is resiliently mounted in a housing such that the optical assembly is insulated from shock to the housing. There is also disclosed a method of assembling the optical sensor. |
US09448104B2 |
Imaging optics and optical device for mapping a curved image field
The present invention relates to optical devices for imaging and spectroscopic applications where optical field curvature is a predominant characteristic. In particular, the invention relates to imaging optics and an optical device for mapping a curved image field. The optical device for mapping a curved image field comprises a focal plane array 20 having a plurality of light processing elements 21 and a focal plane adapter 110 mounted in front of the focal plane array 20 configured to transmit the curved image field to the light processing elements 21 of the focal plane array 20. The focal plane adapter 110 comprises a plurality of waveguides 111 wherein first ends of the waveguides 111 facing the incident curved image field are arranged on a curved surface 12, the curved surface 12 being adapted to a profile of an optical field curvature of the curved image field so that the plurality of waveguides 111 divide the curved image field along a curved focal plane of the image field into a plurality of image segments. The second ends of the waveguides 111 are allocated to the light processing elements 21 to map the plurality of image segments onto the allocated light processing elements 21. |
US09448101B2 |
Ultrasonic measurement device, head unit, probe, and diagnostic device
An ultrasonic measurement device includes an ultrasonic transducer device, a flexible substrate and an integrated circuit device. The ultrasonic transducer device has a substrate, an ultrasonic element array, a plurality of signal electrode lines formed on the substrate and electrically connected to the ultrasonic element array, and a plurality of signal terminals arranged on the substrate. In the flexible substrate, a plurality of signal lines are formed along a first direction. Each of the signal electrode lines has an electrode layer in which at least one signal electrode among some of the ultrasonic elements extends on the substrate. A long side direction of the integrated circuit device extends along a second direction which intersects with the first direction, and each of terminals of the integrated circuit device is connected to a corresponding one of the signal lines of the flexible substrate. |
US09448100B2 |
Signal processing apparatus
Provided is a signal processing apparatus including: a transducer that performs scanning through the interior of an object and acquires received waveform data of a plurality of scanlines; an intensity screening unit that outputs a high intensity position at which signal intensity calculated from the received waveform data is higher than a first predetermined value; a correlation calculation unit that calculates a correlation value in a constant-width division for received waveform data of a first scanline and of a second scanline having a predetermined correlation with the first scanline; a position extraction unit that extracts, as a candidate position of a singular region, a position which corresponds to a high intensity position and for which the correlation value is lower than a second predetermined value; and an image processor that performs signal processing of generating image data of the object on the basis of the received waveform data. |
US09448097B2 |
Apparatus for determining and/or monitoring a process variable of a medium
An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring at least one process variable of a medium in a container which comprises a mechanically oscillatable structure, which has at least one oscillation characteristic dependent on the process variable, an electromechanical transducer having at least one piezoelectric element, which excites the structure, by means of an excitation signal supplied to the transducer, to execute mechanical oscillations, and which converts the resulting oscillations of the structure into a received signal, which corresponds to a superpositioning of the excitation signal and a wanted signal representing the oscillation. A reference element in parallel with the transducer and supplied with the excitation signal, via which a reference signal independent of the oscillation and corresponding to the excitation signal is tapped, and an electronics, which, based on the received signal and the reference signal, extracts the wanted signal, and, based on the wanted signal, determines and/or monitors the process variable, wherein, for automatic measuring of temperature of the transducer, the electronics includes a temperature measuring device, which supplies the transducer and the reference element, in temperature measurement operation, with an auxiliary signal, whose frequency lies outside a frequency range predetermined by a resonant frequency of the oscillatory structure, and, based on the wanted signal extracted in temperature measurement operation, determines a temperature of the transducer. |
US09448096B2 |
Measuring and dispensing cap with internal measuring chambers
In an apparatus for measuring and dispensing pourable material, a removable cap includes a body, a cylindrical sleeve member sheathing an outer circumference of the body, and a biasing spring engageable between the body and the cylindrical sleeve member for biasing the cylindrical sleeve member toward a predetermined home position. The body can include chambers separated longitudinally from one another by a radial panel defining an arcuate aperture allowing passage of the pourable material between the chambers. The cylindrical sleeve member is rotatable with respect to the body for aligning at least one of a plurality of measuring compartments defined by the cylindrical sleeve member with the arcuate aperture for allowing pourable material flow therethrough. The biasing spring can close access to the plurality of measuring compartments during dispensing of a predetermined amount of the pourable material. |
US09448092B1 |
Clamp-on ultrasonic fluid flow meter system
The clamp-on ultrasonic fluid flow meter system is an apparatus that includes structures that filter out a pipe structure-borne ultrasonic wave component. The clamp-on ultrasonic fluid flow meter system provides pipes that are modified to rely on Bragg resonance to attenuate the pipe structure-borne ultrasonic wave component. In a first embodiment, the fluid flow pipe is modified with corrugations so that the periodicity of the corrugations defines a pipe wall corrugation wavelength that is one-half the wavelength of the structure-borne ultrasonic wave component, satisfying Bragg's condition and preventing propagation of structure-borne noise that might interfere with the ultrasonic fluid flow meter. In a second embodiment, a pipe clad material having periodic corrugations as described above is adhesively or magnetically attached to the fluid flow pipe. In a third embodiment, alternating materials at a periodic rate satisfying Bragg's condition are attached to the exterior of the fluid flow pipe. |
US09448089B2 |
Optical encoder
An optical encoder, comprising a plurality of light receiving elements 1-12, receiving light that has passed through or been reflected by a scale having a lattice of pitch P, and outputting four-phase signals that have been respectively offset in phase by an integer number of times 90° (1/4P). 12 light receiving elements being are in the lateral direction (scale longitudinal direction) with gaps between them of P/60 or 2P/60, four arbitrary light receiving elements arranged next to each other in a row all output signals of different phases, and light receiving elements respectively outputting signals of same phase have three lateral widths of 7OP/60, 13P/60 or 20P/60. |
US09448085B2 |
Live branded dynamic mapping
A live dynamic map that provides for increased convenience for a user at a venue is disclosed. The live dynamic map may be branded for a venue, shows points of interest and paths between locations, includes a messaging capability, and allows users to be social with one another as well as venue management. Live branded mapping may allow for similar engagement on a region-by-region, neighborhood-by-neighborhood, or even brand-by-brand basis. By engaging on a hyper-local level, the present mapping platform can better target user and payload delivering and improve upon business to consumer brand engagement. |
US09448084B2 |
Dynamic navigation service
Systems and methods may provide for implementing a dynamic navigation service. In one example, the method may include generating user behavior data for a user, generating community user behavior data, generating a user suggested route, and generating a community user suggested route. |
US09448080B2 |
Navigation system, information providing method, and mobile communication terminal
Provided are a navigation system, an information providing method and a mobile communication terminal wherein the merits of wide-area information delivery using broadcast waves are sufficiently utilized and further delivery data are selected or discarded at each of a plurality of terminals according to the position or traveling path thereof, whereby information in accordance with the position of each mobile communication terminal can be provided. A broadcast station of a navigation system digital-broadcasts, to a plurality of mobile communication terminals, a plurality of data files including a plurality of types of content files and at least one guide file. Each mobile communication terminal uses associated information of the guide file to determine and use a content file corresponding to the current position or to a guide path that leads to the destination. |
US09448074B2 |
Curve modeling device, curve modeling method, and vehicular navigation device
A curve modeling device includes a curvature calculation unit, a curvature correction unit, and a node information generation unit. The curvature calculation unit calculates a curvature of each sampling point on a route based on location information of each sampling point. The curvature correction unit corrects the curvature at each sampling point and approximates the route by a straight line interval, an arc interval, or a smooth curve interval. The node information generation unit builds a shape model of a curve included in the route by generating node information indicative of a node location on a road corresponding to the route based on the corrected curvature of the sampling point. The curvature correction unit corrects the curvature under a condition that an orientation difference defined by the calculated curvatures maintains a constant value. |
US09448072B2 |
System and method for locating, tracking, and/or monitoring the status of personnel and/or assets both indoors and outdoors
A system and method for locating, tracking, and/or monitoring the status of personnel and/or assets (collectively “trackees”), both indoors and outdoors, is provided. Tracking data obtained from any number of sources utilizing any number of tracking methods (e.g., inertial navigation and signal-based methods) may be provided as input to a mapping application. The mapping application may generate position estimates for trackees using a suite of mapping tools to make corrections to the tracking data. The mapping application may further use information from building data, when available, to enhance position estimates. Indoor tracking methods including, for example, sensor fusion methods, map matching methods, and map building methods may be implemented to take tracking data from one or more trackees and compute a more accurate tracking estimate for each trackee. Outdoor tracking methods may be implemented to enhance outdoor tracking data by combining tracking estimates such as inertial tracks with magnetic and/or compass data if and when available, and with GPS, if and when available. |
US09448070B2 |
Gyrometer with reduced parasitic capacitances
Gyrometer including a substrate and an inertial mass suspended above the substrate, the inertial mass including an excitation part and a detection part, means of moving the excitation part is movable in at least one direction contained in the plane of the inertial mass, and capacitive detection device detecting movement of the detection part outside the plane of the mass. The capacitive detection device includes comprising at least one suspended electrode, located above the detection part located facing the substrate so as to form a variable capacitor with the detection part, the electrode being held above the detection part by at least one pillar passing through the inertial mass. |
US09448069B2 |
Microelectromechanical bulk acoustic wave devices and methods
Micromachined gyroscopes, such as those based upon microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) have the potential to dominate the rate-sensor market mainly due to their small size, low power and low cost. As MEMS gyroscopes are resonant devices requiring active excitation it would be beneficial to improve the resonator Q-factor reducing the electrical drive power requirements for the excitation circuitry. Further, many prior art MEMS gyroscope designs have multiple resonances arising from design and manufacturing considerations which require additional frequency tuning and control circuitry together with the excitation/sense circuitry. It would therefore be beneficial to enhance the bandwidth of the resonators to remove the requirement for such circuitry. Further, to address the relatively large dimensions of MEMS gyroscopes it would be beneficial for the MEMS gyroscopes to be fabricated directly above the CMOS electronics thereby reducing the die dimensions and lowering per die cost. |
US09448068B2 |
Angular velocity sensor
A placing member is configured to be supported from an outside by a terminal electrically connected to a terminal electrode, and an X-axis-direction extended portion, a Y-axis-direction extended portion, and a Z-axis-direction extended portion are provided in the terminal. This configuration provides an angular velocity sensor, in which a problem such that Y-axis-direction and Z-axis-direction vibrations applied from the outside cannot be damped is eliminated, and all the vibrations in three axis directions can be damped. |
US09448067B2 |
System and method for photographing moving subject by means of multiple cameras, and acquiring actual movement trajectory of subject based on photographed images
The present invention relates to a system and method for photographing a moving subject by means of multiple cameras, and acquiring the actual movement trajectory of the subject on the basis of the photographed image. One embodiment of the present invention provides a method for acquiring the movement trajectory of a subject, the method comprising: a step for photographing a moving subject by means of multiple cameras; a step for collecting, from each of the cameras, information on multiple images of the subject and the positions of the images on the relevant camera image frames; and a step for acquiring the movement trajectory of the subject on the basis of the information collected. |
US09448064B2 |
Reception of affine-invariant spatial mask for active depth sensing
A method operational on a receiver device for decoding a codeword is provided. At least a portion of a composite code mask is obtained, via a receiver sensor, and projected on the surface of a target object. The composite code mask may be defined by a code layer and a carrier layer. A code layer of uniquely identifiable spatially-coded codewords may be defined by a plurality of symbols. A carrier layer may be independently ascertainable and distinct from the code layer and may include a plurality of reference objects that are robust to distortion upon projection. At least one of the code layer and carrier layer may have been pre-shaped by a synthetic point spread function prior to projection. The code layer may be adjusted, at a processing circuit, for distortion based on the reference objects within the portion of the composite code mask. |
US09448062B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining reference elements of an environment
A method for determining reference elements of an environment, the method comprising at least the steps of: providing a ceiling value and a floor value; measuring, using a distance-measuring sensor, a set of environment point positions, each position comprising at least a first coordinate along a first direction and a second coordinate along a second direction non collinear with the first direction; determining reference elements of the environment comprising position of the set of environment point positions whose second coordinate is strictly smaller than the ceiling value and strictly higher than the floor value, and whose distance to the distance-measuring sensor, taken along the first direction, is a highest distance in a set of distances of environment points to the distance-measuring sensor, said distances being taken along the first direction. |
US09448060B2 |
Methods and apparatus for imaging of occluded objects
An active imaging system, which includes a light source and light sensor, generates structured illumination. The light sensor captures transient light response data regarding reflections of light emitted by the light source. The transient light response data is wavelength-resolved. One or more processors process the transient light response data and data regarding the structured illumination to calculate a reflectance spectra map of an occluded surface. The processors also compute a 3D geometry of the occluded surface. |
US09448053B2 |
Microwave motion sensor
A microwave motion sensor including a transmitting device, a signal processing device, a signal processing device, and a path switching device is disclosed. The transmitting device transmits a microwave signal to a space under detection. The receiving device receives a reflected microwave signal reflected from the space under detection. The signal processing device processes the reflected microwave signal received by the receiving device to judge whether there is a disturbance in the space under detection, wherein the signal processing device generates the microwave signal. The path switching device is coupled to the signal processing device and the transmitting device and results in different phase shifts to a plurality of transmission paths travelled by the microwave signal. |
US09448046B2 |
Vane mounting apparatus
An apparatus for mounting a vane with respect to a shaft of an arrow and/or a bolt. A fletching system includes a sleeve and at least one vane, preferably a plurality of vanes, extending away from the sleeve. In a mounted position of the sleeve with respect to an arrow shaft, the sleeve is removably secured with respect to the arrow shaft. In some embodiments, a stop extends from the sleeve and interferes and/or makes frictional contact with the arrow shaft to prevent movement of the sleeve with respect to the arrow shaft. In other embodiments, an adhesive structure, such as an adhesive tape, contacts the sleeve and the arrow shaft to prevent movement of the sleeve with respect to the arrow shaft. |
US09448034B2 |
Recoil reduction system for firearm
A user-adjustable recoil reduction system for a firearm includes a buttstock and a butt pad assembly movably mounted to the buttstock. A spring is disposed in the buttstock which is acted on by opposing front and rear spring guides. A preload adjustment screw is rotatably coupled to the butt pad assembly which engages the rear spring guide. Rotating the screw in opposing directions alternatingly advances or retracts the rear spring guide in the buttstock. Advancing the rear spring guide compresses the spring to set a first spring preload condition and retracting the rear spring guide relaxes the spring to set a second spring preload condition different than the first condition. The spring preload conditions may be selected to match firing light or heavy type ammunition shell loads. In one embodiment, the adjustment screw is accessible for adjusting the preload without removing the butt pad assembly from the buttstock. |
US09448033B2 |
Projectile launcher with a permanent high-low pressure system
A projectile launcher includes a barrel, a high pressure chamber included within the barrel, and a low pressure area included within the barrel and substantially surrounding the high pressure chamber. The high pressure chamber includes an inner cavity and multiple vent holes connecting the inner cavity to the low pressure area so that high pressure gases generated in the inner cavity by a pressure cartridge can pass from the inner cavity to the low pressure area and propel a round (or projectile) out of the launcher. |
US09448032B2 |
Expandable bow cam
An expandable bow cam increases the exit velocity of an arrow in comparison to a traditional bow cam. The expandable bow cam includes a mounting body, a first restraining member, a second restraining member, am expansion member, and a string track. The mounting body mounts the expandable bow cam onto a limb of a bow. The first restraining member and the second restraining member limit the range of the expansion member and provide support for the bow string to accommodate for the increased radius of the expandable bow cam. The expansion member increases the radius of the expandable bow cam as the bowstring is drawn such that the tension in the bowstring increases as the bowstring is released subsequently increasing the exit velocity of the arrow. The string track prevents the bowstring from becoming dislodged from the present invention as the bow is drawn and fired. |
US09448031B2 |
Shuttlecock launching method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for launching shuttlecocks at different frequencies, trajectories, speeds, spins, and shot types, thereby providing simulated shots for use in practice for badminton players and trainers. The shuttlecock launching apparatus having a dual pivoting launch assembly for providing various launch paths and trajectories, first and second launching wheels for imparting a forward motion to a shuttlecock, and a shuttlecock holding and transfer assembly for transferring a single shuttlecock from a holding area to a launch point near the first and second launching wheels in a controlled and consistent manner. |
US09448029B1 |
Autonomous unmanned tower military mobile intermodal container and method of using the same
A method for operating a weapon system including the steps of transporting said weapon system to a desired location, wherein said weapon system comprises an intermodal shipping container, providing power to said weapon system, activating a computer processing unit of said weapon system by a remote operator, assembling said weapon system by means of said computer processing unit, raising an unmanned weapons unit by means of a lifting system, wherein a top flap of said intermodal shipping container is opened and wherein said lifting system is capable of raising and lowering said unmanned weapons unit, and transmitting images from a camera system, wherein said camera system coordinates with said unmanned weapons unit. |
US09448028B2 |
Shooting stabilizer for hand-held precision weapons
A stabilizer device (100) for a firearm, apt to control the movement performed by the firearm barrel (11) in the instant in which a bullet is ejected, comprising a support element (1) for the firearm barrel (11), removably fixed or fixable to the barrel (11) and apt to be made slidable along a main direction of extension of the barrel (11) with respect to the stock (13) of the firearm that can be gripped by a shooter, and control means for controlling the sliding motion of the support element (1) with respect to the stock (13) of the firearm, having a first (14; 140) and a second (15; 150) control element constrained or constrainable respectively to the support element (1) and to the stock (13) and apt to cooperate to limit and control the extent of such sliding. |
US09448023B2 |
Firearm safety assembly including a lever detent spring
A two-position firearm safety assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a lever detent spring and a first lever, both of which are pivotally coupled to a firearm frame. The assembly can also include a second lever and a link connecting the two levers. The detent spring is in contact with the link and/or the first lever at an assembly pivot point, putting the detent spring in compression. The compression force on the detent spring provides two distinct safety assembly positions (e.g., fire and safe positions), and prevents the safety assembly from perching between the two-positions. The properties of the detent spring (e.g., the material, shape, hardness, spring constant, pre-compression in the safety assembly, etc.) can be customized as desired to adjust the properties of the safety assembly, such as the forces needed to toggle the assembly. |
US09448021B2 |
Linked ammunition restraining device
An accessory to improve handling and transportability of a belt-fed firearm attaches to an upper surface of the firearm and provides at least two protrusions extending outward or upward therefrom, the protrusions sized and positioned to engage a portion of the ammunition belt between two rounds of ammunition and to prevent the belt from sliding across the upper surface of the firearm. |
US09448015B2 |
Heat transfer element for a rotary regenerative heat exchanger
A rotary regenerative heat exchanger (1) employs heat transfer elements (100) shaped to include notches (150), which provide spacing between adjacent elements (100), and undulations (corrugations) (165,185) in the sections between the notches 150. The elements (100) described herein include undulations (165,185) that differ in height and/or width. |
US09448013B2 |
Plate heat exchanger and heat pump apparatus
A plate heat exchanger includes a stack of a plurality of plates each having an inlet and an outlet for a fluid. Each adjacent two of the plates are bonded to each other at regions thereof where top parts of the wavy portion provided in a lower one of the plates and bottom parts of the wavy portion provided in an upper one of the plates overlap each other when seen in the stacking direction. Particularly, a top part included in the top parts of the wavy portion of the lower plate and being adjacent to each of the inlet and the outlet has a planar shape. |
US09448010B2 |
Heat exchanger
A primary heat exchanger for use in an environmental control system of an aircraft is provided having a rectangular core. The core includes a plurality of alternately stacked first fluid layers and second fluid layers. The core has a length to width ratio of about 4.88 and a width to height ratio of about 2.37. A first header is positioned adjacent a first surface of the core and a second header is positioned adjacent a second opposite surface of the core. The first header and the second header form a portion of a flow path for a first fluid. An inlet flange is positioned adjacent a third surface of the core. An outlet flange is positioned adjacent a fourth, opposite surface of the core to form a portion of a flow path for a second fluid. |
US09448007B2 |
Shelving assembly for refrigerator compartment
A shelving assembly includes ladder rails mounted within spaced elongated pockets formed in the rear wall of a refrigerator compartment. Each ladder rail presents a front, side, rear wall portions. Adjacent the front wall portion, a vertical slot is defined, at least in part, by an in-turned portion of the front wall portion. Offset from the slot, the in-turned portion is formed with a plurality of vertically spaced and rearwardly projecting hooks. Each shelf of the assembly includes arms, each having an anchoring pin and a support foot. In mounting the shelf, the support foot and the anchoring pin of each arm are placed through a cutout formed in the front wall portion of a respective ladder, the shelf is arranged in a desired vertical position with the arm sliding within the slot, and then the anchoring pin is supported upon a respective one of the hooks. |
US09448002B2 |
Snow man making device for making a snow person having light emitting structures
A ball is provided forming an inside structure of the snow person, the ball having an inner and outer surface. The ball is a unitary work piece that is free and unconnected to other work pieces. An adhesion surface is disposed on the outer surface of the ball, the adhesion surface provided with nodules that extend away from the surface of the ball to adhere snow while the ball is rolled. Light units are integrated into the surface of the ball and having light emitting portions that extend away from the surface of the ball. A light output of the light units is selected to transmit light through a layer of snow. Connections between the light units situated within the ball connect the light units together. |
US09448001B2 |
Indirect cooling unit
A cooling system includes a first indirect heat exchanger configured to receive return air from an interior space and output conditioned air back into the interior space. The cooling system further includes a second indirect heat exchanger configured to receive outside air. A fluid conduit directs a flow of cooling fluid from the first indirect heat exchanger, through the second indirect heat exchanger, and back to the first indirect heat exchanger. A pump circulates the cooling fluid between the first and second indirect heat exchangers at a fluid velocity that is relatively slow. Additionally, return air and outside air flows through corresponding indirect heat exchangers at air velocities that are also relatively slow. The relatively slow fluid velocity and air velocities enhance an efficiency of heat transfer between the cooling fluid and the return air and between the cooling fluid and outside air. |
US09447999B2 |
Refrigerator with temperature control
An insulated icemaking compartment is provided in the fresh food compartment of a bottom mount refrigerator. The icemaking compartment may be integrally formed with the liner of the fresh food compartment, or alternatively, may be modular for installation anywhere in the fresh food compartment. A removable bin assembly with a front cover normally seals the icemaking compartment to maintain the temperature in the compartment. A cold air duct formed in the rear wall of the refrigerator supplies cold air from the freezer compartment to the icemaking compartment. A return air duct directs a portion of the air from the icemaking compartment back to the freezer compartment. An air vent in the icemaking compartment directs another portion of air into the fresh food compartment. A control system provides for controlling refrigerator functions in a manner that promotes energy efficiency. |
US09447998B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving the charge accuracy of a refrigerant recovery unit
A refrigerant recovery unit with improved charging accuracy is provided. In some embodiments, the contamination of charging refrigerant can be prevented while also providing greater refrigerant flow control. In addition, methods associated therewith for servicing refrigerant containing refrigeration systems are provided. In some aspects, the methods include steps that can be used to achieve more accurate assessments of the refrigerant that is charged into the refrigeration systems during servicing. |
US09447997B2 |
Circular evaporating coil with backward inclined blower wheel with a vertical axis rotatable discharge shroud
An air conditioning unit including a condenser, a compressor, an evaporator system having an evaporator coil and a plurality of evaporator fins in contact with the evaporator coil, wherein the evaporator system forms a generally hollow cylindrical shape, a blower having an intake side and an exhaust side, the blower adapted to draw a volume of air through the plurality of evaporator fins and expel the volume of air in a direction generally perpendicular with a longitudinal axis of the evaporator system, and an exhaust shroud arranged adjacent the exhaust side of the blower, wherein the exhaust shroud is adapted for rotational movement about the longitudinal axis of the evaporator system, the compressor is arranged in fluid communication with the evaporator system and the condenser, and the evaporator is arranged in fluid communication with the condenser. |
US09447992B2 |
Geothermal system with earth grounding component
A geothermal system with earth grounding component for providing electrical grounding is introduced. The geothermal system includes: a geothermal component configured to perform heat exchange; wherein the geothermal component comprises at least one heat exchange tube configured to extend into an underground environment; and an earth grounding component configured to provide earth grounding for electronic equipment; wherein the earth grounding component includes at least one conductive rod coupled to and extended along the at least one heat exchange tube, and the at least one conductive rod is configured to electrically couple to a grounding interface of the electronic equipment. |
US09447988B2 |
Roof mount assembly
A mount assembly is provided for mounting a structure to a roof having a top surface. The mount includes a flashing including an aperture; a bracket including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having an opening and a countersink extending around the opening, the second portion extending at an angle away from the flashing, the second portion including a slot configured to be coupled to the structure; a fastener extending through the aperture and through the opening of the bracket; and a seal extending around the aperture and positioned between the flashing and the first portion of the bracket, the seal engaging the countersink of the bracket and being compressed against the flashing. |
US09447987B1 |
Variable air access films
A variable air access mechanism and method of varying air access comprising a first film with a predetermined amount of total air access openings to be formed by removal of laser cut chads; a portion of the chads only partially cut; and a second film adhered to the first film wherein removal of the second film in a first direction opens all of the air access openings or removal of the second film in an opposing direction leaves the partially cut chads attached to the first film such that only selected chads are removed. |
US09447986B2 |
Cutting tool assembly for HVAC vent opening and the like
A power cutting tool for automatically cutting out a vent opening in a substrate such as a floor and the like according to a prescribed pattern is disclosed. The power cutting tool includes a base assembly adapted for support on a surface of said substrate. A track assembly having a track is carried by the base assembly for automatically guiding the movement of the cutting tool. A power cutting tool includes a cutting blade which penetrates the substrate to cut out the vent opening. A drive assembly includes a first drive for operating the cutting blade, and a second drive engaging the track for automatically moving the power cutting tool along the track while simultaneously operating the cutting blade to cut out the vent opening pattern in the substrate. |
US09447985B2 |
HVAC control system and methods for operating same
A system and method for operating an HVAC system having a cooling system and ventilation system to vent outside air within a structure is disclosed. The method includes monitoring an interior temperature of the structure, monitoring an exterior temperature of ambient air outside of the structure, defining a first time range and a second time range, associating one or more operating parameters of the HVAC system with the first time range, associating one or more operating parameters of the HVAC system with the second time range, monitoring operational time and operational load of the cooling system for the first time range, and controlling the ventilation system during the second time range based upon the monitored operational time and operational load of the cooling system in the first time range, and the monitored interior and exterior temperatures. |
US09447982B2 |
System for ventilating a gas turbine enclosure
A turbine ventilation system includes at least one fan configured to provide a first air flow into a gas turbine enclosure, a fan bypass configured to circumvent the at least one fan to provide a second air flow into the gas turbine enclosure, and an eductor configured to draw the first or second air flows through and out of the gas turbine enclosure. |
US09447980B2 |
Outdoor unit of refrigeration apparatus
An outdoor unit of a refrigeration apparatus includes a heat exchanger, a casing constituent member and a seal member. The heat exchanger has plural collection header pipes, plural fins disposed at a predetermined fin pitch between the header pipes, and plural heat transfer tubes inserted through the fins and connected to the header pipes. An interstice larger than the fin pitch is formed between one of the header pipes and one of the fins adjacent to the one of the header pipes. The casing constituent member is disposed facing the one of the header pipes and is configured to surround part of the heat exchanger. The seal member is attached to the casing constituent member, is pressed against the one of the header pipes and the one of the fins in the environ of the interstice facing the casing constituent members, becomes deformed, and closes the interstice. |
US09447977B2 |
Appliance and a method for operating an appliance
An appliance is provided. The appliance includes a cabinet that defines an air passage. An air handler has an impeller that is positioned proximate the air passage. The appliance also includes features for determining whether the impeller is rotating. When the impeller rotates, the impeller draws a flow of air through the air passage. |
US09447976B2 |
Fuel injector with a diffusing main gas passage
A fuel injector for a combustor of a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The fuel injector includes a gas gallery and a gas passage. The gas gallery is an annular passage configured to circumferentially distribute gas fuel. The gas passage includes an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is distal to the gas gallery and includes an inlet area with a circular shape. The outlet adjoins the gas gallery and includes an outlet area including an annular sector shape. The gas passage is configured to diffuse the gas fuel and discharge the gas fuel from the outlet and into the gas gallery. |
US09447969B2 |
Low NOx combustion process and burner therefor
Method of combusting a fuel with an oxidizer and corresponding burner assembly, whereby a jet of fuel and a jet of primary oxidizer are injected into a combustion zone in contact with one another so as to generate a primary fuel-rich flame, a swirling first peripheral gas jet is injected through a first passage around the fuel jet and primary oxidizer jets and a swirling second peripheral gas jet is injected through a second passage around the first peripheral gas jet and whereby a jet of secondary oxidizer is injected through a passage into the combustion zone between the first and second peripheral gas jets. |
US09447966B2 |
Fuel burner
A burner is provided. The burner includes an air compressor, an atomizing head having an air orifice, first and second fuel tanks, the first fuel tank being located at least partially below the atomizing head, and the second fuel tank being located at least partially above the atomizing head, a first fluid pathway connecting the air compressor to the air orifice of the atomizing head, a second fluid pathway having a first end configured to receive air from the air compressor, and a second end extending into the first fuel tank, a third fluid pathway connecting from the first fuel tank to the second fuel tank, and a fourth fluid pathway connecting the secondary fuel tank to a distribution point above the atomizing head. The second and third fluid pathway define at least a portion of a bubble pump. The burner is configured to use air from the air compressor to both (a) deliver fuel to the atomizing head, and (b) atomize the delivered fuel at the atomizing head. |
US09447959B2 |
Heat sink for electrical elements and light-emitting device containing thereof
The disclosure provides a heat sink for electrical elements and a light-emitting device containing thereof. The heat sink includes a radiating substrate and at least one hollow radiating channel. In which, the hollow radiating channel is horizontally embedded in the radiating substrate, and has two openings disposed on the same site or the opposite sites of the radiating substrate, so that gas may flow in the hollow radiating channel and remove heat of the radiating substrate. And a light-emitting device containing the heat sink is also provided. |
US09447949B2 |
Light fixture
Provided is a light fixture comprising: a) a body for attaching one or more ballast; b) a bracket having a first and a second end that is pivotally attached at the first end to the body; and c) a reflector for placement of one or more LED (light emitting diode) strips attached to the bracket. The fixture can further comprise a door with a lens pivotally attached to the body, wherein the ballast is accessed by pivoting the reflector and the door in opposite directions. |
US09447948B2 |
LED lighting apparatus with flexible light modules
The present disclosure involves a street light. The street light includes a base, a lamp post coupled to the base, and a lamp head coupled to the lamp post. The lamp head includes a housing and a plurality of LED light modules disposed within the housing. The LED light modules are separate and independent from each other. Each LED light module includes an array of LED that serve as light sources for the lamp. Each LED light module also includes a heat sink that is thermally coupled to the LED. The heat sink is operable to dissipate heat generated by the LED during operation. Each LED light module also includes a thermally conductive cover having a plurality of openings. Each LED is aligned with and disposed within a respective one of the openings. |
US09447946B2 |
Optical member and method for manufacturing same, backlight unit using the optical member, and method for manufacturing the backlight unit
The present invention relates to an optical member, comprising: a light incidence surface; and a light-emitting surface which comprises a patterned portion intended for adjusting the intensity of light and formed at an area corresponding to a light source, and an adhesive portion disposed in an area other than the patterned portion. When the optical member of the present invention is applied to a backlight unit, the patterned portion, which diffuses the light from the light source, is formed in the area corresponding to the light source so as to effectively diffuse the light from the light source into the peripheral area. Also, the optical member and a diffusion plate are stacked via an air layer in the area corresponding to the light source (the area in which the patterned portion is disposed), and the optical member and the diffusion plate closely contact each other without an air layer in the remaining area, such that the intensity of the light transmitted between a light source portion and the peripheral portion may be adjusted with an improvement in the balance of brightness and uniformity. |
US09447945B2 |
Lighting source using solid state emitter and phosphor materials
A light-emitting apparatus includes a substrate, a light source configured to emit light and arranged on the substrate, a phosphor layer being apart from the light source and configured to convert the light into forward transmitted light and backward transmitted light, and an optic device, being narrower than the substrate and having a transparent side wall, configured to direct at least a portion of the backward transmitted light through the transparent side wall and toward the substrate. In another aspect, a light-emitting apparatus includes a transparent base, a light source on the transparent base, a transparent material covering the light source, a phosphor layer on the transparent material, and a transparent wall on the phosphor layer. |
US09447942B2 |
LED condensing system and method with a plurality of LEDs, and its application in imaging system
A condensing system and method with a plurality of LEDs is disclosed. The LEDs are positioned on the same plane. A first condensing lens is disposed at front of each LED, a second condensing lens is disposed at front of each first condensing lens, a third condensing lens is disposed at front of each second condensing lens, and a fourth condensing lens is disposed at front of all the third condensing lenses. After the light emitted by each LED is condensed by the corresponding first condensing lens, second condensing lens and third condensing lens, the divergence angle of the light becomes smaller, forming a bunch of nearly parallel light beams. The bunches of nearly parallel light beams simultaneously transmit through the fourth condensing lens, and then combine. The condensing system can be used as the light source with imaging lenses disposed therebehind to form an imaging system. |
US09447940B2 |
Vehicle headlamp
A vehicle headlamp includes a first LED light source, a first light guide plate optically coupled to the first LED light source, a second LED light source, a second light guide plate optically coupled to the second LED light source, and a light barrier sheet interposed between the first and second light guide plates. The first light guide plate is configured to guide light emitted from the first LED light source onto a predetermined area thereby creating a second light distribution pattern. The second light guide plate is configured to guide light emitted from the second LED light source onto a predetermined area thereby creating a second light distribution pattern. The light barrier sheet is configured to prevent light transmission between the first and second light guide plates. |
US09447938B2 |
Electronic lighting device and method for manufacturing same
An electronic lighting device and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. The electronic lighting device may comprise a core, which may comprises an enclosure, a light-emitting element, a flame sheet and a swing mechanism. The flame sheet is movably supported or suspended on the enclosure, and may comprise an upper sheet which is of a flame-like shape. The upper sheet is configured to expose above the top of the enclosure. The light-emitting element may be installed on the enclosure. A light outgoing direction of the light-emitting element may be intersected with the surface of the upper sheet so that the light of the light-emitting element is projected on the surface of the upper sheet. The swing mechanism is disposed beneath the flame sheet and can apply a force on the flame sheet to actuate the flame sheet to sway or swing. By the present application, a visual experience of true fire can be achieved and an interestedness and appreciation can be improved. |
US09447928B2 |
Lighting device
Disclosed is a lighting device having wide light-distribution characteristics. The lighting device includes a base; a protrusion disposed on the base; and a light emitting module disposed on the protrusion; wherein the light emitting module comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes inclined inward with respect to the a protruding direction of the protrusion. Accordingly, the lighting device can provide wide light-distribution characteristics. |
US09447927B2 |
Light-emitting device containing flattened anisotropic colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals and processes for manufacturing such devices
A device that emits light in response to an electrical or optical excitation, such as LEDs, displays, e-readers, device includes at least one anisotropic flat colloidal semiconductor nanocrystal whose smallest dimension, namely the thickness, is smaller than the other two by a factor of at least 1.5, the emitted light having an intensity and a polarization that vary according to the angle formed by the light emitting direction and the normal to the largest surface of the flat nanocrystal. The device allows to realize a light-emitting device exhibiting simultaneously a high emission spectral finesse and allows proper control of the wavelength, the directivity and/or polarization of the emitted light, and thus increases the brightness and color gamut of displays composed of such a device. Such devices are found for example in displays, televisions, mobile phones, tablets, or computers. The various embodiments of these devices are also presented. |
US09447926B2 |
Plasma process method
A plasma process method of processing an object to be processed by a plasma process while enabling cooling of an inside of a plasma apparatus by taking in and exhausting a gas to evacuate an atmosphere of the inside includes measuring a temperature of the atmosphere of the inside of the plasma process apparatus while the plasma is not generated; and stopping taking the gas into the inside of the plasma process apparatus during the plasma process in a case where the measured temperature is lower than a first preset threshold temperature when the atmosphere is evacuated at a preset volumetric flow rate. |
US09447924B2 |
Motor driven compressor for a vehicle
A first accommodation chamber accommodating therein an inverter unit with a built-in inverter circuit and a second accommodation chamber accommodating therein a filter unit with a built-in filter circuit are formed individually in different positions of a housing of a motor-driven compressor for a vehicle. The input terminals and the output terminals of the inverter unit and of the filter unit are all arranged so as to extend in the same direction. |
US09447921B2 |
Multi-function unit for the offshore transfer of hydrocarbons
A hydrocarbon transfer arrangement for transfer of fluids between an offshore unit and a carrier which are placed in an offloading configuration, includes at least one transfer hose and a gas return hose, wherein the end of the at least one transfer hose is connected to a floating multi-function unit allowing for the transport of the transfer hose between the offshore unit and the carrier, wherein the floating multi-function unit can be lifted out of the water and can be held in a fixed position above water-level and is provided with connection elements for making a fluid connection between the transfer hose end and a manifold of the carrier and with emergency disconnect elements for the at least one transfer hose, placed at a distance from the connection elements. |
US09447917B1 |
Adjustable hanger bars with detachment stop
A hanger bar assembly includes a first hanger bar member and a second hanger bar member. The first hanger bar member includes a first rail segment, a first channel segment including a first channel, and a first stoppage tab extending up above an edge of the first channel segment. The second hanger bar member includes a second rail segment positioned in the first channel of the first channel segment and a second channel segment that includes a second channel. The first rail segment is positioned in the second channel. The second hanger bar member further includes a second stoppage tab extending out in a horizontal direction. The first stoppage tab and the second stoppage tab are designed to abut against each other to prevent unintended disengagement of the first hanger bar member from the second hanger bar member. |
US09447916B2 |
Securing an air conditioning unit to a building by applying force to an interior and an exterior surface of the building
A system for securing an air conditioning unit to a building without the need for any alteration and/or damage to the building itself. The system includes a cross bar, an air conditioning unit support, and a strut. The arrangement of the components results in the cross bar applying an outward force to an interior surface of the building and strut applying an inward force to an exterior surface of the building in response to the downward force exerted on the air conditioning unit support. The sum of the forces applied on the surfaces of the building are sufficient to secure the air conditioning unit to the building. |
US09447913B2 |
Adjusting mechanism for a display and related mounting system
An adjusting mechanism for a display is disclosed in the present invention. The adjusting mechanism includes a supporter, a bridging component installed on the supporter, a holder for holding the display, a driving component movably disposed on the bridging component, and an actuating component disposed between the driving component and the holder. The driving component moves relative to the bridging component along a first direction to rotate the actuating component, and the actuating component moves the holder relative to the bridging component along a second direction different from the first direction when rotating, so as to adjust a distance between the supporter and the holder. |
US09447912B2 |
Support tripod for video-photographic equipment
A support tripod (1) for video-photographic equipment, comprising a spider (2), a column (8) provided with hooking means (9) for a piece of video-photographic equipment slidable along a sliding axis (Z) inside an aperture (7) defined by said spider (2), a plurality of legs (4) hinged at a hinging end (4a) to said spider (2) to open/close the tripod (1), each leg (4) having a body extending mainly along a longitudinal axis (Y) and being rotatable about a hinging axis (X) substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis (Y) and extending through the spider (2) to be moved between a closed configuration (W, W′) in which the legs (4) are arranged almost parallel with the sliding axis (Z) and at least one operating configuration (K, J) in which the legs are inclined relative to the sliding axis (Z) at a desired opening angle (α1, α2), each leg (4) being provided with an adjusting device (30) in order to adjust the angular position of the leg (4) up to a maximum opening angle (α1, α2) relative to said sliding axis (Z), wherein said adjusting device (30) comprises an adjusting head (31) provided at the first hinging end (4a) actuatable in rotation about the longitudinal axis (Y) of the leg (4) and provided with translation means (40) cooperating with corresponding translation counter-means (41) defined on the leg (4) to translate the adjusting head (31) along the longitudinal axis (Y) relative to the leg (4), following the rotation about the longitudinal axis (Y), to vary the length of the leg (4) and the interference between the hinging end (4a) and the spider (2) to allow variation of the maximum opening angle (α1, α2) of the leg (4). |
US09447911B2 |
Adjustable frame assemblies, methods for assembling a filter apparatus, and filter apparatuses
An adjustable frame assembly for filter modules includes a lower base arrangement, an upper base arrangement, and an adjustable frame structure connected between the lower and upper base arrangements. Both the lower and upper base arrangements include mounts for positioning and supporting the filter modules. At least one of the base arrangements includes a piping system for supplying fluid to and/or receiving fluid from the filter modules. The adjustable frame structure is moveable between a first position, in which the lower and upper base arrangements are spaced a smaller first distance apart, and a second position, in which the lower and upper base arrangements are spaced a larger second distance apart. Filter modules may be mounted to the adjustable frame assembly when the adjustable frame structure is in the second position to form a filter apparatus. |
US09447910B2 |
Temporary night pipe cap
A temporary night pipe cap is disclosed. The pipe cap has a gasket, a plate, a pressure relief valve and a plurality of high pressure clamps. The system is removably installed over a water pipe opening at street level or in the ground so that water pressure can be restored for the time period when work on the water pipe ends for the day. |
US09447908B2 |
Anti-siphon assembly
An anti-siphon assembly includes a siphon tube having a first end region adapted for securement to the inner surface of a fuel filler neck and a second end region adapted to be positioned in a fuel tank for allowing fuel to flow there through into said tank. The assembly includes a locking ring which secures, in an off axis manner, the first end region of the siphon tube within the fuel filler neck with the use of specialized installation tool. |
US09447904B2 |
Hose coupling
A hose coupling is provided, which is of sleeve-shaped form and which, at at least one coupling end, has a connector with a retention profiling provided on the outer circumference at least in one connector subregion, onto which coupling end a hose end of a flexible hose can be pushed. The retention profiling is formed by at least one retention groove, which is provided on the outer circumference of the connector and which has groove long sides oriented in the connector circumferential direction and groove narrow sides oriented in the connector longitudinal direction. The at least one retention groove has a groove base which is of flat form. |
US09447903B2 |
Hose clamp with flat spring liner
An improved hose clamp having an annular band having an inner face, tensioning means, and an annular spring liner; the spring liner having a circumferential shoulder near an edge of the liner; and a central, cylindrical, flat, contact portion of smaller circumference than the shoulder, and of smaller width than the inner face of the band. The shoulder is adapted to abut the inner face and the contact portion is adapted to contact a hose or other article to be clamped. |
US09447902B2 |
Wastewater pipe structure
Disclosed herein is wastewater pipe having a shape that is operable to flow both small and large volumes of wastewater. The wastewater pipe includes a bottom portion with a different diameter than to top portion. The top and bottom portions of the wastewater pipe are connected by side walls that extend tangentially from the bottom portion and intersect tangentially with the top portion. The pipes may also variously include alignment tabs. |
US09447901B2 |
Radial flow process and apparatus
A flow connector creates a fluid connection between a port in a wall of a reactor vessel and an axial flow path of the reactor vessel. The flow connector has a wall defining a flow path of the flow connector. The flow path terminates in a first end opening and a second end opening. The first end opening is configured to connect to the axial flow path of the reactor vessel, and the second end opening is configured to connect to the port in a wall of the reactor. The flow connector includes a passageway extending through the wall of the flow connector to provide access to the flow path of the flow connector. A cover is dimensioned for sealing the passageway. The passageway may be dimensioned such that a person may traverse the passageway to access the flow path of the flow connector. |
US09447896B2 |
Control valve and attachment structure of control valve
A control valve includes a spool formed with a fluid passage allowing a circulation of an operation fluid for switching a supply of the operation fluid to plural operation fluid supply portions, a cylindrical sleeve including plural supply and exhaust ports supplying and exhausting the operation fluid to and from the plural operation fluid supply portions and plural drain ports allowing the operation fluid returning from the plural operation fluid supply portions to drain, the sleeve slidably accommodating the spool therein, a solenoid mechanism for changing a position of the spool relative to the sleeve, and a communication portion formed on an outer periphery surface of the sleeve, the communication portion connected to plural drain ports. |
US09447893B2 |
Method and device for controlling a valve
A method is disclosed for controlling a valve having a spring with a spring force, an actuator with an actuator force opposing the spring force, and a pin that is actuated by the actuator, a seal element that can be coupled with the pin, and a seal seat, the valve being closed when the seal element sits against the seal seat. The method includes determining an expected natural opening time when the seal element is lifted off the seal seat based on a pressure difference in front and behind the valve, impressing a specified current on the actuator at a point in time within a specified interval prior to the natural opening time, the seal element sitting against the seal seat at the point in time such that the pin contacts the seal element and the actuator force matches the spring force, which is reduced by a specified value. |
US09447892B2 |
Pressure activated valve for high flow rate and pressure venous access applications
A valve having a first housing including a first lumen extending therethrough and a first disk-facing surface, a second housing including a second lumen extending therethrough and a second disk-facing surface, where the second housing is coupled to the first housing so that the second disk-facing surface faces the first disk-facing surface. A flexible disk has at least a portion of an outer edge of the disk extending away from a plane of a central portion of the disk, the outer edge contacting the first disk-facing surface, the disk including a slit extending therethrough which, when acted upon by a fluid pressure of at least a threshold level opens to permit fluid flow between the first and second lumens and which, when acted upon by a fluid pressure less than the threshold level, prevents fluid flow between the first and second lumens. |
US09447889B2 |
Blocked valve isolation tool
A valve isolation tool for insertion through a vent duct and vent duct valve of a gas flow duct. The isolation tool includes an outer tube having proximal and distal ends, the outer tube having a diameter sized to extend through the vent duct and blocking valve. An inner tube having proximal and distal ends is arranged coaxially with and movable within the outer tube. An inflatable balloon is attached to the distal end of the inner tube, wherein the isolation tool outer tube is insertable through the vent duct to an opening in the gas flow duct. The inner tube is slidably insertable through the outer tube until the balloon is situated within a bore formed through the gas flow duct and is inflatable therein to block any gas leak through the gas flow duct. |
US09447888B2 |
Encapsulated valve system
An encapsulated valve system includes a first housing portion having a first facing surface, the first facing surface comprising a plurality of branch pathways formed as a recess within the first facing surface. The valve system further includes a second housing portion having a second facing surface, the second facing surface comprising a plurality of branch pathways formed as a recess within the second facing surface. A disposable conduit is configured to be interposed between the first and second housing portions and disposed within the recess of the first facing surface and the recess of the second facing surface. The disposable conduit is thus sandwiched between the first and second facing surfaces. A plurality of pinch valve actuators are mounted on one or both of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, the plurality of pinch valve actuators configured to pinch the disposable conduit at selective branch pathways. |
US09447887B2 |
Fluid circulation valve with improved seal
The invention relates to a fluid valve comprising a movable flap (1) provided with a first wing (3) and a second wing (4), said valve also including a gasket (2) having an opening (5) for the passage of the fluid. At least one (3) of the aforementioned wings, known as the sealing wing, can seal the opening (5) in the gasket (2) at least partially when the flap (1) is in the closed position. According to the invention, the sealing wing (3) and the other wing (4) are positioned on each side of the gasket (2) when the flap is in the closed position and the flap comprises an intermediate area (6) connecting the first (3) and second (4) wings and extending through the opening in the gasket (6). |
US09447885B2 |
Double mechanical seal device
A double mechanical seal device, comprising a rotating ring, a first static ring, a second static ring, and a seal cover. A first bellows seal device is provided between the first static ring and the seal cover, and the first bellows seal device comprises a first bellows part capable of expanding and contracting in an axial direction, a first cover-side adapter, and a first static ring-side adapter. The first bellows seal device and the first static ring are disposed so that in a state where there is no pressure difference between the inside and outside of the first bellows part, a balance line of the first bellows part passes through a cross section of an O ring and a first static seal surface. |
US09447880B2 |
Method and sealant for securing a first housing member to a second housing member of an electronic device
A method for securing a first housing member to a second housing member of a device, includes affixing a set of tape adhesive portions to a first section of a perimeter of the second housing member and distributing a liquid adhesive to a second section of the perimeter of the second housing member. The method further includes compressing the liquid adhesive into at least one compressed liquid adhesive portion to create a sealant for securing the first housing member to the perimeter of the second housing member, wherein the sealant comprises the set of tape adhesive portions and the at least one compressed liquid adhesive portion. |
US09447878B2 |
Piston seal assembly
A piston seal assembly including a piston, plate, and seal is provided. The piston is slidably supported on a shaft or in a housing, and includes a recess on an inner or outer radial portion. The plate is fastened to the piston and extends at least partially adjacent to the recess. The seal is located at least partially within the recess of the piston. The seal includes a radial sealing surface that engages the shaft or the housing, and the seal is axially movable between the piston and the plate via hydraulic fluid pressure. |
US09447873B2 |
Motor driven transfer case with concentric actuation
A transfer case (30) and a method of assembly can include a range shifting assembly (60) and a clutch assembly (80) located axially adjacent to one another along a common primary axis. An actuating device (32) can include a concentric gear located coaxially interposed between the range shifting assembly (60) and the clutch assembly (80) for rotation about the common primary axis. The concentric gear (48) can actuate the range shifting assembly (60) during a portion of angular rotation about the common primary axis and can actuate the clutch assembly (80) during a mutually exclusive portion of angular rotation about the common primary axis. The actuating device (32) can include a barrel cam (59), a plurality of springs engageable between the barrel cam (59) and the concentric gear (48), and a shift fork (68) operably engageable with a cam surface groove (57) for guided axial movement to actuate the range shifting assembly (60) between a low-range and high-range drive mode. |
US09447872B2 |
Device for controlling lock-up capacity of torque converter
A controller is provided with a lock-up capacity control means for controlling a lock-up capacity to a predetermined target capacity when a transition to a coast running state occurs, a timing means for measuring a time during which a slippage, which is a difference between a revolution speed (engine speed) of an input element and a revolution speed (turbine speed) of an output element, is within a predetermined range when the lock-up capacity is controlled to the predetermined target capacity, and a capacity learning means for making a learning-correction to the predetermined target capacity such that the time measured by the timing means is brought to a predetermined target time. By virtue of the learning-correction, it is possible to accurately control the lock-up capacity when the transition to the coast running state has occurred. |
US09447870B2 |
Power gear-shifting transmission and engineering machinery
The present invention provides a power gear-shifting transmission and an engineering machinery. The power gear-shifting transmission comprises a clutch shaft assembly (1). The clutch shaft assembly (1) comprises a clutch shaft (11), a housing gear (12) arranged on the clutch shaft (11), a clutch disc (13) arranged within the housing gear (12), and a gear-shifting piston (14) arranged at one end of the clutch disc (13). The gear-shifting piston (14) is pushed by a clear hydraulic medium introduced via a fluid supply passage (3); the clean hydraulic medium is supplied by a hydraulic system (2). The engineering machinery comprises the power gear-shifting transmission. |
US09447868B2 |
Electro-hydraulic control including blocking features for multi-speed automatic transmission
A control for a multi-speed automatic vehicle transmission is provided. Electrical and hydraulic components are provided, including pressure control or “trim” valve systems in fluid communication with shift valves and electrohydraulic actuators to selectively engage and disengage the transmission clutches or other shift mechanisms. Pressure switches are provided for the trim valves and shift valves. The fluid connections between the trim valve systems and the shift valve systems are configured to reduce the total number of valves and fluid passages required and to reduce the size of at least one of the valves. Clutch blocking features are provided. Power off limp home and reduced engine load at stop features are provided in all forward ranges, and control of double transition shifts is also provided. |
US09447866B2 |
Shift control device for an automatic transmission
A shift control device for an automatic transmission comprises a shift control member configured for manipulation by an operator to control a shift mechanism of a vehicle transmission, and an artificial feel mechanism coupled to the shift control member for providing tactile feedback. The artificial feel mechanism comprises a sensor, a controller, and a piezoelectric element. The sensor is configured for detecting a position of the shift mechanism and sending a signal that is indicative of the position. The controller is configured for receiving the signal, determining a control voltage, and providing the control voltage to the piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element is configured and arranged so as to receive the control voltage and to apply a mechanical force that depends upon the control voltage and that is configured and applied so as to mechanically resist movement of the shift control member relative to the shift control bracket. |
US09447865B2 |
Transmission operating mechanism
A transmission operating mechanism includes an operating housing, wherein an inner shifting shaft is provided in the operating housing, and the operating housing is provided with, from left to right, a first position-limiting structure installation hole, a shifting block installation cavity, a second position-limiting structure installation hole and a balancing spring installation cavity; and a shifting block is installed in the shifting block installation cavity and is connected to the inner shifting shaft via a shifting block positioning pin. The spatial position of the operating housing is fully utilized to effectively arrange each functional component, and the requirement for modification is fully considered within the limited dimensional range. Therefore, various operation modes may be achieved by simply providing several modified parts without changing the operating housing. |
US09447864B2 |
Vehicle drive device
A vehicle drive device having a rotating electrical machine, a speed change mechanism, and a case that accommodates the rotating electrical machine speed change mechanism. A first oil storage portion is provided so as to communicate with the speed change mechanism accommodating space. A hydraulic pump that supplies the oil in the first oil storage portion to the speed change mechanism and the rotating electrical machine. A second oil storage portion provided so as to communicate with the rotating electrical machine accommodating space. A discharge oil passage discharges the oil in the second oil storage portion to the first oil storage portion. The discharge oil passage includes a first opening that opens toward the first oil storage portion, and the first opening is provided so that its lower end is located above an oil level in the first oil storage portion during rotation of the hydraulic pump. |
US09447863B2 |
Lubrication structure for driving force transmission device
A planetary gear has a sun gear having external teeth on an outer peripheral side, a plurality of pinion gears engaged with the sun gear, a carrier supporting the plurality of pinion gears, a circular oil catch plate on an end of the carrier, and a rotation member having a ring gear, on an outer peripheral side of the carrier and the oil catch plate. An engaging element engaged with the rotation member is disposed on an outer periphery of the planetary gear. The oil catch plate includes an open close valve which opens a passage at at least a predetermined rotation number. Lubrication oil supplied to the planetary gear is guided to the engaging element through the passage when the open/close valve is opened. This enables adjusting of the lubrication amount in accordance with a variation occurring in a ratio of a lubrication amount to each part. |
US09447859B2 |
Locking differential gear carrier having an integrated locking actuator
A locking differential gear carrier comprises a gear carrier housing, a first output shaft, a second output shaft differentially linked to the first output shaft, an internal gear affixed perpendicular to the first output shaft and disposed within the gear carrier housing, and a locking actuator assembly. The locking actuator assembly is disposed exterior to the gear carrier housing and includes a locking ring to which a pin is affixed, the locking ring movable by a servo motor toward and away from the gear carrier housing, the pin disposed in parallel with the first output shaft and passing through the gear carrier housing to selectively engage with a recess of the internal gear to lock the first output shaft to the gear carrier housing and cause the first output shaft and the second output shaft to rotate synchronously. |
US09447855B2 |
Electric actuator with shock absorbing mechanism
An electric actuator is capable of easily achieving reduction in weight and size when compared to a hydraulic cylinder device, capable of being used in place of the hydraulic cylinder device, and capable of freely extending in response to a suddenly-applied impact load. An electric actuator converts rotation of an electric motor into advancing/retracting motion of an output rod using a screw shaft and a nut member mounted to the screw shaft. The output rod includes: a drive cylinder, to which the nut member is provided, the drive cylinder being arranged around the screw shaft; and a movable cylinder arranged to overlap the drive cylinder around the screw shaft and freely advancing and retreating with respect to the drive cylinder. The electric actuator further includes a releasing mechanism provided between the drive cylinder and the movable cylinder, for engaging the movable cylinder with the drive cylinder. |
US09447853B2 |
Coaxial rotary shaft feedthrough with backlash reduction
A sealed dual coaxial rotary shaft feedthrough device is provide. The device includes an inner shaft and a hollow outer shaft that is coaxial to encompass the inner shaft. The shafts include coupled drive and driven shafts. The coupling, which may be referred to as an eccentric coupling, causes the driven shaft to rotate with the drive shaft. The rotation is transmitted without breaking the seal by an eccentric portion of either the drive or driven shaft being nutatingly coupled to either a transition cap or transition cup. Nutatingly coupled means rotation of the shaft causes the transition cap or cup to orbit, but not spin, about the longitudinal axis. The nutation is transmitted by the transition cap or cup to the other of the shafts, which rotates. |
US09447852B2 |
Gearing system and method of use
Embodiments include a gear shifting system that eliminates the use of a derailleur and is capable of integrating with existing controls on the bike. |
US09447850B2 |
Adjustable tensioner
A tensioner for an engine accessory drive system includes a tensioner arm pivotally mounted for movement between a free arm position and a load stop position. The tensioner arm includes a pulley which engages a belt. A piston, disposed in a cylinder, is pivotally linked to the tensioner arm. A spring urges the tensioner arm towards the free arm position. A moveable load stop member, controlled by an actuator, projects into the cylinder. The load stop member abuts the piston to thereby arrest movement of the tensioner arm and define the load stop position. The actuator may drive the load stop member against the piston to move the tensioner arm towards the free arm position so as to increase belt tension. |
US09447848B2 |
Transmission
A transmission which has drive input and output shafts, a housing, two planetary gearsets (PR1, PR2), and at least three shifting elements which produce three gears or ratios. A ring gear of the gearset (PR1) and the input shaft are connected for forming a first shaft, a carrier of gearset (PR1) and the output shaft are connected for forming a second shaft, a ring gear of gearset (PR2) forms a third shaft, sun gears of gearsets (PR1, PR2) are connected for forming a fourth shaft, and carrier of gearset (PR2) couples the housing. The first shifting element is arranged in the force flow between the third shaft and the housing, the third shifting element is arranged in the force flow between the second and third shafts, and the second shifting element is arranged in the force flow either between the first and second shafts or the second and fourth shafts. |
US09447839B2 |
Support module for lithography system
The invention relates to a support structure and support module, for instance for use in a lithography system, comprising a frame and a support for supporting a load, wherein said support is moveable relative to said frame, said support structure further comprising a force compensation spring assembly connecting said support to said frame for at least partially supporting said support and/or said load, wherein said force compensation spring assembly comprises a first spring having a negative stiffness characteristic over a predefined range of motion of said spring, and a second spring having a positive stiffness. |
US09447837B2 |
Fluid-filled vibration damping device
A fluid-filled vibration damping device including: a primary liquid chamber which gives rise to pressure fluctuations based on deformation of a main rubber elastic body at times of vibration input; an auxiliary liquid chamber which gives rise to pressure fluctuations relative to the primary liquid chamber at times of vibration input; and an orifice passage that allows flow action of a scaled fluid between the primary liquid chamber and the auxiliary liquid chamber. The sealed fluid contains at least 0.03 volume % of a dissolved gas under atmospheric pressure at room temperature. A low-adhesion energy surface with a water contact angle of at least 90 degrees is provided on an inner surface of the primary liquid chamber. |
US09447835B2 |
Damping force variable valve assembly and damping force variable shock absorber having the same
Provided are a damping force variable valve assembly with a low-speed control valve capable of controlling an ultra-low flow rate and a low flow rate when a damping force variable valve operates in a soft mode, and a damping force variable shock absorber including the damping force variable valve assembly. The damping force variable valve assembly, which is installed in a damping force variable shock absorber for adjustment of a damping force of the shock absorber, includes: a solenoid; a spool which is movable by the magnetic force of the solenoid; a spool guide which surrounds the spool; a main valve which is installed in a main passage formed in a valve body installed in the spool guide; a back pressure chamber which is provided in the rear of the main valve; a chamber forming body which forms the back pressure chamber. |
US09447834B2 |
Overtravel pressure relief for a gas spring
A gas spring for forming equipment. A casing includes an axially extending side wall, an open end, a transversely extending closed end wall axially spaced from the open end, and a pressure chamber established in part by the side and end walls to receive a gas under pressure. A piston rod is received at least partially in the casing for reciprocation between extended and retracted positions. A piston rod housing is received at least in part in the casing between the piston rod and the casing. An overtravel pressure relief feature includes a vent path that is disposed between the pressure chamber and the outside of the gas spring and that includes a vent passage through the side wall of the casing and a seal that sealingly interrupts the vent path, wherein displacement of the housing into the casing results in opening of the vent path. |
US09447829B2 |
Carrier and mount
A carrier and mount assembly for a heavy vehicle disc brake. The assembly includes a carrier having a first location formation formed therein, a mount having a second location formation formed therein, wherein the second location formation is aligned with the first location formation, and wherein the carrier is mounted to the mount via two or more fasteners that extend in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of insertion or removal of a friction element into or from the carrier. There is also a locator positioned in the first and second location formations to enable the carrier and mount to be assembled in the correct position, wherein the locator is at least a close fit to the first and second location formations. |
US09447828B2 |
Carrier and mount
A carrier and mount assembly for a heavy vehicle disc brake. The assembly includes a carrier having a first location formation formed therein, a mount having a second location formation formed therein, wherein the second location formation is aligned with the first location formation, and wherein the carrier is mounted to the mount via two or more fasteners that extend in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of insertion or removal of a friction element into or from the carrier. There is also a locator positioned in the first and second location formations to enable the carrier and mount to be assembled in the correct position, wherein the locator is at least a close fit to the first and second location formations. |
US09447824B2 |
Universal joint
A universal joint includes a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, an outside joint member, an inside joint member, a roller member, and a shaft length variable mechanism. The outside joint member is coupled to one end portion of the first rotating shaft. The inside joint member is provided in the outside joint member and is coupled to one end portion of the second rotating shaft. The inside joint member transmits running torque from a first rotating shaft side to a second rotating shaft side. The roller member is provided in the inside joint member and is to move on a roller guide surface provided inside the outside joint member. The shaft length variable mechanism is provided in the second rotating shaft and is to change a shaft length of the second rotating shaft in an axial direction of the second rotating shaft. |
US09447815B2 |
Quick detach accessory attachment
This disclosure provides an accessory attachment, comprising a housing with a top end and a bottom end, at least one locking member, a spring-biased retractor apparatus operable to move the locking member from an engaged position to a disengaged position, and finger grips attached to the retractor apparatus. The accessory attachment may be attached to, or removed from, a mounting receptacle either by pushing or pulling the finger grips toward or away from either end of the housing parallel to a longitudinal axis of the housing. |
US09447814B1 |
Fastener apparatus with self-leveling head
Fastener apparatus including a self-adjusting and automatically self-leveling head separate from a threaded shank portion. An embodiment self-leveling head portion defines an annular recess and lip portion sized to receive a seal. A threaded shank resides within an annular cup center of the self-leveling head and has a thread-free portion seated by the compressed seal creating a water tight seal. Embodiments for sheet metal screw and bolt fasteners not requiring seals are disclosed. |
US09447813B2 |
Bonding washer
A bonding washer for making electrical connection between two metal pieces that are to be mechanically fastened together. The washer, to be interposed between the two metal pieces, may be constructed so as to fasten to one of the pieces before the two pieces are joined. Teeth on the washer, positioned at right angles to the plane of the washer, are forced into each of the two metal pieces when the fastener is tightened, making electrical connection between the two metal pieces. |
US09447808B2 |
Nut plate seal caps
A cap (10) for sealing a mechanical fastener (200), method for making the cap, and driver and method for applying the cap is disclosed. The cap includes a shell having an exterior surface (14) and an interior surface (16) defining a cavity (18), an opening (19) extending through the shell between the interior and exterior surfaces, and a sealant (13) at least partially filling the cavity. A package and a holder for holding a plurality of cap assemblies are also disclosed. |
US09447807B2 |
Externally splined fastener
A fastener (2) for securing a workpiece comprising a plurality of workpiece members, said fastener comprising a shank (4) and a radially enlarged head (6) wherein the fastener further comprises axial voids (40) and splines (18), such that when the fastener is installed into a workpiece by a mandrel, breakstem or pin, the shank of the fastener is expanded such that the crests of the splines are caused to mechanically engage with the internal walls of the fastener apertures. |
US09447805B2 |
Bi-directional bed rail assembly
The present application provides a hook assembly having a latitudinal axis bisecting a body into an upper portion above the latitudinal axis further comprising a first bi-directional pin engagement slot and a lower portion below the latitudinal axis further comprising a second bi-directional pin engagement slot, wherein both the upper portion and the lower portion and the first bi-directional pin engagement slot and the second bi-directional engagement slot are mirror images of one another. |
US09447802B2 |
Multi-branch fitting made of composite material and method of manufacturing such a mult-branch fitting
A multi-branch fitting includes at least three branches, molded from a composite material and, more precisely, from a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic or thermoset matrix. The fitting is intended for assembling components which are at an angle to one another. There are at least three flat or substantially flat branches or flanges extending radially from a joining zone, and at least one face or part of a face constituting a bearing face for one or more of the components that are to be attached. The joining zone has a cross section, in the transverse direction, in the shape of a polygon with concave sides. The connection of each of the branches or flanges with another adjacent branch or flange is achieved through a portion in the shape of a curved blade which gives the joining zone one of its concave shapes. |
US09447797B2 |
Servovalve actuation
A servovalve pilot stage (100) comprises a piezoelectric actuator (130) joined to a flow guide (132) and feedback wire (136) for connection to a main stage spool valve. The flow guide (132) and the piezoelectric actuator (130) may be integral. |
US09447796B2 |
Annular jet pump
An annular ejector of an annular jet pump is coaxially arranged at a front of a central ejector. The annular ejector includes an annular nozzle, an annular mixing chamber, and an annular mixing duct. The central ejector includes a central nozzle, a central mixing chamber, and a central mixing duct. The annular nozzle is connected with a primary fluid inlet. A primary fluid inlet is in direct connection with the central nozzle arranged at a bottom of the central pipe, and a secondary fluid inlet is connected with a sidewall of the annular mixing chamber. |
US09447795B2 |
Fluid pumping system and a fluid turbine system including the fluid pumping system
Fluid pumping system and method comprise a pumping chamber with inlet and outlet ports. The pumping chamber is in thermal communication with a thermal system for alternating the gas temperature inside the pumping chamber between heated and cooled states. A first valve controls a first fluid communication between the pumping chamber and the external environment, and a second valve controls a second fluid communication between the pumping chamber and the fluid container. The pumping chamber and the valves cooperate to generate a vacuum and a negative potential pressure of the gas inside the pumping chamber by the effect of the gas temperature alternation when the gas passes from a heated state to a cooled state and by controlling the first and second fluid communications. The generated vacuum and negative potential pressure inside the pumping chamber enable pumping of the fluid from the fluid container inside the pumping chamber. |
US09447794B2 |
Inducer and diffuser configuration for a gas turbine system
A system includes at least one inducer including a flow passage configured to guide a fluid flow into a cavity defined by a casing and rotor of a gas turbine engine, the flow passage includes an inlet configured to receive the fluid flow from a compressor diffuser of the gas turbine engine, and an outlet configured to discharge the fluid flow into the cavity. The at least one inducer is configured to be disposed within the gas turbine engine so that the second outlet is axially disposed forward of a diffuser outlet of the compressor diffuser. |
US09447791B2 |
Fan comprising fan blades
A fan, with fan blades, especially used for the cooling of a motor vehicle, with the fan blades being fixed to a fan hub. In spite of being made of only a small amount of material, the fan is highly resistant to the flow conditions in the motor vehicle, each fan blade being bent rearwards at an angle in the direction of a blade root, an angled region of the fan blade being at least partially bent downwards towards the fan hub. |
US09447785B2 |
Rotary actuator
An output shaft and arms are installed inside a cylinder. Pistons that are formed in an arc shape and rotatably connected to the arms slide and are displaced in the circumferential direction of the cylinder inside the cylinder. Inside the cylinder, a first pressure chamber on the arm side and second pressure chambers on the piston head portion side are provided. Third pressure chambers are provided on both sides of the cylinder. A pressure medium is supplied to one of the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber and discharged from the other, and the output shaft pivots in a rotational direction. When the pressure medium is supplied to the second pressure chambers, the pressure medium is also supplied to the third pressure chambers. |
US09447784B2 |
Diaphragm with passive flow rate control for compression stage
A diaphragm for the compression stage of a compressor includes least one set of through passages extending between two mutually opposite faces of the diaphragm, so as to create a flow of gas between the opposite faces depending on a pressure difference prevailing on either side of the diaphragm. |
US09447782B2 |
Compressor and method for compressing technical gases
A compressor system and method for the isothermal compression of industrial gases includes a compression cylinder into which an industrial gas having impurities can be introduced and compressed via a displacement fluid, and an expansion space for the desorption of impurities from at least part of the displacement fluid after the displacement fluid sorbs impurities from the gas during compression in the compression cylinder. The displacement fluid may compress the gas and sorb contaminants from the gas, and following the compression, at least a portion of the displacement fluid may be conducted to an expansion chamber to desorb the impurities from the fluid and remove the impurities from the system. |
US09447781B2 |
Osmotically driven dispense pump and related components for use in high pressure applications
A high pressure osmotic dispense pump (10) having a substantially continuous delivery rate and extended delivery times is described and disclosed. The dispense pump (10) includes a semi-permeable membrane (12) which is substantially free of distortions and lateral stretching stresses. The membrane housing (14) and configuration of the present invention allows for consistent and accurate flow rates at the micro-liter level and improved control of the surface area of the semi-permeable membrane (12). This osmotic pump (10) also includes optional methods for activating and deactivating the osmotic process and/or controlling flow rates. Along with these features, the pump can be amplified or modulated to increase the dispense rate and/or adjust the flow rate during operation. |
US09447778B2 |
Methods and systems for detecting sensor fault modes
A method of detecting a fault mode of a sensor is provided. The sensor may be, for example, a bending moment sensor and may sense a bending moment of a blade on a wind turbine generator (WTG). The method includes comparing data output by a first sensor with reference data indicating what is expected to be output by the first sensor to produce a first comparison result and comparing data output by the first sensor with data output by a second sensor to produce a second comparison result. A determination of whether the first sensor has entered a fault mode is made based at least in part on the first and second comparison results. |
US09447777B2 |
Continuous-flow power installation
A turbine power plant is disclosed for generating electrical energy from a fluid flow, comprising a gondola rotatably mounted on a pedestal, particularly a tower, comprising a drivetrain, designed for converting the energy applied to the rotor into electrical energy by a rotor driven by the fluid flow and by means of functional components designed for supporting the rotor and/or for supporting the gearbox and/or for converting energy. At least one of the functional components listed above has an operationally fixed connection for transmitting static and dynamic loads from the drivetrain to the tower. |
US09447775B2 |
Power generating windbags and waterbags
A method of using a bagged power generation system comprising windbags and water-bags for harnessing wind and water power to produce electricity to meet the escalating energy needs of mankind. Windbags integrated with aerodynamically shaped inflatable bodies filled with lighter-than-air gas: HAV, UAV, airplanes; enabling the apparatus to attain high altitude to capture and entrap high velocity wind. Water-bags integrated with hydrodynamic shaped bodies HUV, UUV, Submarine-boats; enabling the apparatus to dive, capture and entrap swift moving tidal-currents. Attached tether-lines pulling on the rotating reel-drums and generators to produce electricity. Active control surfaces, turbo-fans, propellers provide precision control of the apparatus. A system configured to maximize fluids capture, retention and optimized extraction of its kinetic energy. An extremely scalable and environmentally friendly method, system, apparatus, equipment and techniques configured to produce renewable green energy with high productivity and efficiency. |
US09447774B2 |
Non-rotating wind energy generator
In an embodiment of the invention, a non-rotating wind energy generator uses the fluid flow principles of vortex shedding and transverse galloping to generate oscillatory motion of a beam, and alternators, optionally located near both ends of the beam, generate electrical power when the beam is in motion. |
US09447768B2 |
Internal combustion engine
The present invention aims at effectively improving a propagation speed of a flame utilizing an electromagnetic wave in an internal combustion engine that promotes combustion of an air fuel mixture utilizing the electromagnetic wave. The present invention is directed to an internal combustion engine including: an internal combustion engine main body formed with a combustion chamber; and an ignition device that ignites the air fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, wherein combustion cycles, in which the ignition device ignites and combusts the air fuel mixture, are repeated. The internal combustion engine further includes: an electromagnetic wave emission device that emits an electromagnetic wave to the combustion chamber from the emission antenna; a flame propagation estimation part that performs an estimation operation of estimating a propagation condition of a flame while the flame is propagating in the combustion chamber; and a control unit that controls the electromagnetic wave emission device based on an estimation result of the estimation operation. |
US09447767B2 |
Single chip igniter and internal combustion engine ignition device
Aspects of the invention are directed to a single chip igniter such that it is possible to realize a reduction in operating voltage, an increase in noise tolerance, a reduction in size, and a reduction in cost. By reducing the gate threshold voltage of a MOS transistor, and reducing the operating voltages of a current limiter circuit, an overheat detector circuit, a timer circuit, an overvoltage protection circuit, an input hysteresis circuit, and the like, it is possible to reduce the operating voltage of a single chip igniter. In some aspects of the invention, the effective gate voltage of the MOS transistor is 1V or more, and the channel length of the MOS transistor is 4 μm or less. Also, in some aspects of the invention, the thickness of a gate oxide film of the MOS transistor is 5 nm or more, 25 nm or less. |
US09447765B2 |
Powertrain delta current estimation method
A vehicle includes an engine, electrical loads, and at least one controller. While the engine is on, the controller calculates the change in current demand of the electrical loads expected from turning the engine off. The decision to command the engine off is then based on the expected change in current demand. Electrical loads that will change state from on to off when the engine is turned off will increase the expected change in current demand. Electrical loads that will change state from off to on when the engine is turned off will decrease the expected change in current demand. Operating conditions associated with the electrical loads, such as operating voltage, temperature, and speed, may affect the expected change in current demand. |
US09447764B2 |
Internal combustion engine start-stop controls
Apparatuses, methods, and systems for conditionally re-starting an internal combustion engine are disclosed. Certain exemplary embodiments evaluate information associated with a temperature of an accessory of an internal combustion engine and conditionally re-start the internal combustion engine after an engine shutdown based at least in part upon said information and a determination that a post-engine-shutdown temperature of the engine accessory would exceed a predetermined criterion. In certain embodiments the accessory includes a component of a turbocharger. In certain embodiments the accessory includes a component of an exhaust aftertreatment system. |
US09447762B2 |
Fuel injection system
The invention relates to a fuel injection system, in particular a common rail injection system, in which fuel is conducted from a distributor pipe via high-pressure lines to injectors, by means of which the fuel can be injected during an injection cycle with a number of injection pulses, wherein each of the high-pressure lines is provided with at least one damping device for damping pressure pulsations. In order to simplify the production of the damping device, the damping device has a pipe, in which a core that is held at a distance via spacers so as to form an annular gap is provided. |
US09447761B2 |
Dual-channel piezoelectric injector
The invention discloses a dual-channel piezoelectric injector, including a dual-channel injector body, its bottom in turn is connected with an upper intermediate, a lower intermediate and a dual-channel needle valve body. At the top of the dual-channel injector body there are two tubing interfaces, and each tubing interface has a tubing fuel duct. There are two laminated piezoelectric actuators and two spray fuel ducts connected to two tubing fuel ducts respectively inside the dual-channel injector body. The upper intermediate and lower intermediate connected with each other to form the middle connection body. From top to bottom of the middle connection body, there is an external control fuel duct, an external spray fuel duct, an internal control fuel duct and internal fuel spray duct. Inside the double-channel needle valve body, there is the sleeve structure of the needle valve hole, at the bottom of double-channel needle valve body there is an internal fuel spray nozzle connecting the internal casing hole which is outside the body, and an external fuel spray nozzle connecting to the external casing hole which is outside the body. Through the two laminated type piezoelectric actuators, control is realized for the pressure difference between the fuel pressure of the fuel control cavity and the fuel pressure of the inner pressure chamber or outer pressure chamber. So it is also realized to control the open or close state of the internal or external needle valve, in turn to control the injection action of the internal fuel spray nozzle or external fuel spray nozzle. The present invention has a simple structure and a low manufacturing cost. |
US09447758B2 |
Filter for internal combustion engines
A filter for internal combustion engines of vehicles, comprising: an external casing (11) and an upper closing cover (12), which close an internal chamber (13) having an inlet for the liquid to be filtered and an outlet for filtered liquid; a filter cartridge (20) having a tubular filter means (21) located internally of the internal chamber (13) which separates the chamber (13) into a first zone communicating with the inlet and a second zone communicating with the outlet, and a lower plate (22) joined to a lower end of the filter means (21); the filter means being removably fixed to the casing (11) such as to remain internally of the casing when the casing is separated from the cover; the lower plate comprising hooking teeth (31), developing axially and having an elastic action in a radial direction; the base of the casing comprising a generally cylindrical surface sub-divided into a number of sectors which is equal to a number of hooking teeth (31), each sector defining a hooking zone (43) for axially constraining the hooking teeth (31) in a snap-fastening. |
US09447754B1 |
Method and apparatus for internal combustion engine system with improved turbocharging
Systems, methods, apparatus provide improved turbocharging of an internal combustion engine. A single, discrete turbocharger is affixed to each engine combustion cylinder. Turbochargers can be mounted to their associated cylinders in close proximity, thus harvesting higher energy exhaust gases from each combustion cylinder. Tip in and spool up responses can be further improved using low rotational inertia turbochargers that can operate effectively across a wide range of engine operational speeds. Controlled balancing valves between cylinder exhaust lines can deliver exhaust gases from a single cylinder selectively to multiple turbochargers in appropriate operational conditions. Moreover, multiple turbochargers' compressors can be configured in series to achieve pressurization compounding of combustion air for low RPM operation. Nesting of turbochargers relative to one another permits improved mounting of each turbocharger in close proximity to its corresponding combustion cylinder. |
US09447750B2 |
Propulsion engine
A propulsion engine for an aircraft includes a first fan having a set of first blades and a second fan having a set of second blades. There is provided a first angular pitch adjustment mechanism coupled to the first set of blades, a second angular pitch adjustment mechanism coupled to the second set of blades and an actuation device coupled to the first angular pitch adjustment mechanism. The first and second angular pitch adjustment mechanisms are coupled together such that when the actuation device generates an output, the angular pitch of each of the first blades and each of the second blades changes. |
US09447747B2 |
Methods and systems for stopping an engine
Systems and methods for improving operation of a stop/start vehicle are presented. In one example, an engine throttle position is adjusted in response to whether or not a starter engages a flywheel during engine stopping. The throttle may be adjusted to a more open position if the starter engages the flywheel or to a more closed position if the starter does not engage the flywheel. |
US09447745B2 |
System and method for diagnosing an engine
Methods and systems are provided for an engine including a crankcase. A condition of the engine may be diagnosed based on frequency content of crankcase pressure. Different types of degradation may be distinguished based on a frequency content of multiple frequencies of the crankcase pressure. Thus, a degraded engine component may be identified in a manner that reduces service induced delay. |
US09447743B2 |
Exhaust gas purification system and exhaust gas purification method
Exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine is made to pass through an exhaust gas purification device after passing through a pre-oxidation catalyst. When a first temperature of the exhaust gas on an upstream side of the device is lower than a first set temperature, multistage temperature rise injection is performed. When the first temperature becomes the first set temperature or more, post injection is performed in addition to the multistage temperature rise injection, and feedback control of the post injection is executed so that a second temperature of the exhaust gas on a downstream side of the exhaust gas purification device becomes a second set temperature. |
US09447741B2 |
Automatic engine start-stop control
A vehicle system having at least one sensor configured to output a range signal and a range-rate signal. The range signal represents a distance from a host vehicle to the front vehicle and the range-rate signal represents range-rate information of the front vehicle relative to the host vehicle. A processing device is configured to output a control signal based on the range signal and the range-rate signal. The control signal commands an engine of the host vehicle to start. |
US09447740B2 |
Engine system having hydraulically actuated gas injector
A fuel injector is disclosed for use in an engine system. The fuel injector may have a body defining a gas inlet, an oil inlet, and an oil outlet. The fuel injector may also have a nozzle connected to the body and having a base end in fluid communication with the gas inlet, and an injection tip located opposite the base end. The fuel injector may also have a valve check disposed in the nozzle and movable to selectively block and unblock the injection tip of the nozzle, and a plunger disposed in the body between the oil inlet and the oil outlet. The plunger may be movable between a flow-passing position and a flow-blocking position to cause movement of the valve check through the injection tip. The injector may further have a solenoid actuator configured to selectively move the plunger. |
US09447738B2 |
Method for controlling variable valve lift apparatus and variable valve lift system
A method for controlling a variable valve lift apparatus includes: measuring an operation mode switching condition; determining whether the variable valve lift apparatus is in a normal operation condition; controlling the operation of the variable valve lift apparatus depending on a predetermined normal valve lift switching map; determining whether the variable valve lift apparatus is in a mode switching delay or switching disable condition from a high lift mode to a low lift mode or whether the variable valve lift apparatus is in the mode switching delay or switching disable condition from the low lift mode to the high lift mode; controlling the operation of the variable valve lift apparatus depending on a predetermined low oil temperature valve lift switching map; and controlling the operation of the variable valve lift apparatus depending on a predetermined high oil temperature valve lift switching map. |
US09447736B2 |
Method for switching over a gas turbine plant from gaseous fuel to liquid fuel and vice-versa
In a method for switching over a gas turbine plant from gaseous fuel (16, 20) to liquid fuel (18, 22) and vice-versa, in which the gas turbine plant includes a first combustor and a second combustor fed with the flue gases of the first combustor, the first and second combustors are sequentially switched over while the other combustor maintains its operating conditions. |
US09447733B2 |
Gas turbine engine fuel system with ecology valve
A gas turbine engine fuel system has an ecology valve for withdrawing residual fuel from primary and secondary fuel manifolds upon engine shut-down. The ecology valve has primary and secondary reservoirs respectively connected in fluid flow communication with the primary and secondary fuel manifolds. The valve further has a reciprocating piston movable from a retracted position when engine start-up is initiated to an extended position which the piston assumes under normal engine running conditions. The movement of the reciprocating piston between the retracted and extended positions controls the flow of fuel from and to the primary and secondary reservoirs. A cross-bleed passage is defined in the reciprocating piston. The cross-bleed passage connects the primary and secondary reservoirs in fluid flow communication only when the piston is in its extended position. In this way, the cross-bleed flow between the primary and secondary fuel manifolds may be initiated only at the end of the engine start-up phase. |
US09447732B2 |
Gas turbine anti-icing system
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a system that includes a recirculation system. The recirculation system includes a compressor discharge air line extending from a compressor to an air intake. The compressor discharge air line is configured to flow a compressor discharge air flow, and the air intake is configured to supply an air flow to the compressor. An ejector is disposed along the compressor discharge air line between the compressor and the air intake. The ejector is configured to receive and mix the compressor discharge air flow and a turbine exhaust flow to form a first mixture. |
US09447731B1 |
Supersonic elliptical ramp inlet
A supersonic inlet includes a supersonic section including a cowl which is at least partially elliptical, a ramp disposed within the cowl, and a flow inlet disposed between the cowl and the ramp. The ramp may also be at least partially elliptical. |
US09447730B2 |
Purge method and purge unit for gas turbine combustor
A purging method and a purge unit for a gas turbine combustor capable of effectively preventing deviation of an exhaust gas environmental regulation value from a regulation range in the case of using a dual-fuel type gas turbine combustor. The gas turbine combustor is provided with nozzles. Which communicate with an oil fuel line where oil fuel flows and a gas fuel line where gas fuel flows and are capable of switching injection fuel between the oil fuel and the gas fuel. A purging method for the gas turbine includes a first purge step of purging the oil fuel line by at least water immediately after the injection fuel is switched to the gas fuel from the oil fuel and a second purge step of purging the oil fuel line by at least water immediately before the injection fuel is switched to the oil fuel from the gas fuel. |
US09447729B2 |
Aerodiesel engine
The present invention is an aero engine that is provided with compression combustion and weighs less than 725 lbs. The present invention is further a method of forming the aero engine. |
US09447725B2 |
Compressor and vacuum machine
A compressor includes: a cylinder; a crankcase; a piston arranged within the cylinder and the crankcase; and an outer rotor type motor causing the piston to reciprocate, wherein the outer rotor type motor comprises: a stator; a coil wound around the stator; a rotational shaft; a yoke connected with the rotational shaft; and a permanent magnet secured to the yoke, and the yoke is formed with an air hole. |
US09447724B2 |
Fuel and process for powering a compression ignition engine
A process of powering a compression ignition engine using a main fuel comprising methanol and water, including: fumigating an intake air stream with a fumigant comprising an ignition enhancer; introducing the fumigated intake air into a combustion chamber in the engine and compressing the intake air; introducing the main fuel into the combustion chamber; and igniting the main fuel/air mixture to thereby drive the engine. Also provided a fuel for use in the process, a two-part fuel for use in the process, and associated power generation systems. |
US09447722B2 |
Electric actuator current control responsive to temperature
Various methods for controlling current supply to a wastegate actuator based on temperature are thus provided. In one example, a method for operating a wastegate comprises limiting a boost amount in response to a current limit based on a temperature of a wastegate actuator. The temperature may be an environmental temperature proximate the wastegate actuator. |
US09447721B2 |
Fuel injection control device for internal combustion engine
When injecting fuel from a direct injector and a port injector such that a requested fuel injection amount is obtained in an internal combustion engine, the direct injector is driven in the following manner. That is, after a target fuel injection amount for the fuel injection with the higher priority among fuel injection in the late stage of an intake stroke and fuel injection in the early stage of the intake stroke in the direct injector has been set on the basis of the engine operating condition, the target fuel injection amount for the fuel injection with the lower priority is set on the basis of the engine operating condition. Moreover, the direction injector is driven in such a manner that the target fuel injection amount for each of the abovementioned fuel injections set in this manner is obtained. |
US09447718B2 |
Vehicle control device
There is provided a control device for a vehicle including: an engine; a water pump driven by the engine to circulate engine cooling water, and a transmission that changes a speed of rotation transmitted from the engine and transmits the rotation with a changed speed to drive wheels. A speed ratio of the transmission may be changed by a manual operation. The control device includes at least one electronic control unit configured to: i) execute output control of the engine in response to an accelerator pedal operation performed by a driver; and ii) control the engine such that an output of the engine When a condition that a cooling capacity for cooling the engine is determined to be insufficient with respect to a load on the engine is satisfied is lower than an output of the engine based on an accelerator operation amount when the condition is not satisfied. |
US09447717B2 |
Mixer for short mixing lengths
A mixer for an exhaust gas treatment system includes a support body that defines a mixing chamber. A plurality of first blades is arranged in a row, and is disposed along a transverse axis. Each of the first blades extends from an upstream edge, toward a first lateral edge surface of the mixing chamber, to a downstream edge, at a first row angle relative to the transverse axis. A plurality of second blades is arranged in a row, and is disposed along the transverse axis. Each of the second blades extends from an upstream edge, toward a second lateral edge surface of the mixing chamber, to a downstream edge, at a second row angle relative to the transverse axis. The first row angle is less than the second row angle. The row of the first blades is axially spaced from the row of the second blades. |
US09447712B2 |
Internal detonation engine, hybrid engines including the same, and methods of making and using the same
Hybrid internal detonation-gas turbine engines incorporating detonation or pulse engine technology (such as an internal detonation engine), and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. The internal detonation engine includes a detonation chamber having a fuel igniter therein, a stator at one end of the detonation chamber having at least a first opening to receive fuel, a rotor adjacent to the stator, and an energy transfer mechanism configured to convert energy from igniting or detonating the fuel to mechanical energy. The detonation chamber and fuel igniter are configured to ignite or detonate a fuel in the detonation chamber. Either the stator or the detonation chamber has a second opening to exhaust detonation gas(es). The rotor has one or more third openings therein configured to overlap with at least the first opening as the rotor rotates. |
US09447710B2 |
Variable valve timing control device
A variable valve timing control device includes a driving side rotation member, a driven side rotation member, a control valve controlling a supply and draining of an operation fluid to and from a fluid pressure chamber to change a relative rotational phase of the driven side rotation member relative to the driving side rotation member, an intermediate member positioned inwardly of the driven side rotation member between the driven side rotation member and a camshaft, the intermediate member including the control valve inwardly thereof; and a torsion spring retained by the driving side rotation member and the intermediate member to bias the driving side rotation member and the driven side rotation member either in a first rotation direction or a second rotation direction. |
US09447707B2 |
Hydraulic support element
The invention relates to a hydraulic support element for valve drive of a combustion engine, with a pot cylindrical casing and a hollow cylindrical piston guided axially movably therein, the inner end of which is supported via a spring on the bottom wall of the casing, whose outer end projects past the outer margin of the casing and is formed as a hemispherical bearing head, and whose inner space is subdivided by means of a partition element into an axially inner supply-pressure space and an axially outer switching-pressure space. |
US09447706B2 |
Bearing frame or cylinder head cover
A bearing frame or cylinder head cover of an internal combustion engine may include at least one camshaft mounted therein. The camshaft may be tunnel-mounted in at least two bearing openings arranged along a bearing channel. At least two radial bearings may be arranged on the camshaft, each of the radial bearings having an outer bearing shell. The outer bearing shells of the at least two radial bearings may include different outer diameters, each of the respective outer diameters adapted to be complementary to an inner diameter of the associated bearing opening. The inner diameters of the bearing openings may decrease in a direction of assembly of the camshaft along the bearing channel. |
US09447700B2 |
Thermally free hanger with length adjustment feature
A system for connecting spaced components of a gas turbine engine includes connecting one end of a T-bar to each of the spaced components. One component is attached to the crossbar portion of the T-bar by trapping the crossbar between the component and a bracket. The second component is attached to the shaft portion using a hanger nut connected to the shaft portion of the T-bar and bolted to the second component. The system may be installed by attaching the crossbar portion, then advancing the first component towards the second component until the shaft portion passes through an aperture in the second component. The hanger nut is attached to the shaft portion and the second component. |
US09447699B2 |
Steam turbine housing
A steam turbine housing is provided having a housing wall and a stiffening cradle attached to the inner side which has two encircling inner webs which are arranged axially adjacent to one another and which project radially inward from the housing wall. Between the inner webs, running parallel and axially centrally, a central web is attached to the inner side of the housing wall, the radially inner edge of which is straight, wherein at the radially inner edge of the central web, the central web forks in a Y-shaped manner inward into two transition webs which extend to and merge into the adjacent inner web, such that the inner webs are fastened directly to the housing wall outside the circumferential extent of the transition webs and are fastened to the housing wall via the transition webs and the central web within the circumferential extent of the transition webs. |
US09447697B2 |
Wastegate valve and turbocharger having same
Wastegate assemblies and turbocharger assemblies including the wastegate assemblies are described. The wastegate assemblies include a housing enclosing both an actuator and a valve. The valve is operatively coupled to the actuator and the housing terminates with a crush seal. The housing also includes a mounting member connectable to a turbocharger to place the crush seal in sealing engagement with a wastegate opening in the turbocharger. The turbocharger assemblies include a housing enclosing a turbine and a compressor wheel that are operatively coupled together on a common shaft that defines an axis of rotation, and have a wastegate assembly removably mounted to an outlet end of the housing proximate the turbine and extending therefrom in a direction away from the turbine and the compressor wheel. Here, the wastegate assembly has a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the axis of rotation. |
US09447691B2 |
Bucket assembly treating apparatus and method for treating bucket assembly
A bucket assembly and a method for treating a bucket assembly are disclosed. The bucket assembly includes a platform, the platform defining a platform cooling circuit, and an airfoil extending generally radially outward from the platform, the airfoil defining an airfoil cooling circuit. The bucket assembly additionally includes a lower body portion extending generally radially inward from the platform, the lower body portion defining a root and a cooling passage extending from the root, the cooling passage in fluid communication with the airfoil cooling circuit. The bucket assembly further includes a transfer passage defined between and in fluid communication with the airfoil cooling circuit and the platform cooling circuit such that a cooling medium may flow from the airfoil cooling circuit through the transfer passage to the platform cooling circuit. |
US09447688B2 |
Indexed positive displacement rotary motion device
Disclosed herein is an indexing system for a rotor assembly where in one example the indexing system regulates the rotational location of drive rotors. In one example the rotors are configured to rotate about a shaft. |
US09447680B2 |
System and method for matching lithology responses of downhole tools having different source energies
Systems, methods, and devices for matching the lithology effect of a downhole tool having a lower-energy neutron source, such as AmBe, using a downhole tool having a higher-energy neutron source, such as an electronic neutron generator, are provided. One such downhole tool may include a neutron source, first and second neutron detectors, and data processing circuitry. The neutron source may emit neutrons into a subterranean formation, which may scatter off the formation. The first neutron detector may detect neutrons of a relatively lower spectrum of energies than the second neutron detector. From counts of these neutrons, the data processing circuitry may determine a property of the subterranean formation having a lithology effect that substantially matches another lithology effect associated with another downhole tool having a lower-energy neutron source. |
US09447677B2 |
Methods and apparatus for sensing in wellbores
Methods and apparatus for sensing wellbore conditions in artificial lift wells using low profile sensors that are installed on down hole production equipment that makes them easier to install and retrieve. In one embodiment, low profile sensors are installed on a rod string making their insertion and removal much easier than it would be if they were mounted on production tubing. The sensors can be attached directly to the rod string or can be attached to a cable that is attached to the rod string. The sensors can transmit their data electrically through the cable or through the rod string. Alternatively, the sensors can transmit their data acoustically through the rod string. |
US09447676B2 |
Electronically activated underreamer and calliper tool
An electronically activated tool (50) comprising a tool body, cutter blocks and sensors with means for attachment to a drilling support and rotation so as to permit the simultaneous underreaming and measurement of the diameter of a wellbore (especially in oil and gas drilling) characterized by a means of activation using an electronic signal sent by mud-pulse, fiber-optics, wireless transmission or other means which may also communicate commands and receive data from the underreamer during drilling, at least one radially extendable cutter block (62) incorporating positional sensors adapted to measure the relative position of the cutter block to the tool, at least one calliper means (76) to measure wellbore diameter, all of which are inter-linked by a means of communication using receivers, sensors and microprocessors and a system that optimizes underreaming or expansion (22) by simultaneously comparing and correlating wellbore diameter data (22) and underreaming parameters in real-time or in memory. |
US09447675B2 |
In-situ method and system for removing heavy metals from produced fluids
Methods and systems relate to the in-situ removal of heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, etc., from produced fluids such as gases and crudes from a subterranean hydrocarbon-bearing formation. A sufficient amount of a fixing agent is injected into formation with a dilution fluid. The fixing agent reacts with the heavy metals forming precipitate, or is extracted heavy metals into the dilution fluid as soluble complexes. In one embodiment, the heavy metal precipitates remain in the formation. After the recovery of the produced fluid, the dilution fluid containing the heavy metal complexes is separated from the produced fluid, generating a treated produced fluid having a reduced concentration of heavy metals. In one embodiment, the dilution fluid is water, and the wastewater containing the heavy metal complexes after recovery can be recycled by injection into a reservoir. |
US09447673B2 |
Methods for providing proppant slugs in fracturing treatments
A proppant pack may be formed in a fracture that extends from a wellbore formed in a subterranean formation and is accomplished through different methods. The methods involve providing multiple spaced apart proppant slugs within a hydraulic fracturing fluid that is introduced into the wellbore at a pressure above the fracturing pressure of the formation. |
US09447672B2 |
Method and apparatus for ballistic tailoring of propellant structures and operation thereof for downhole stimulation
Propellant structures and stimulation tools incorporating propellant structures may comprise composite propellant structures including two or more regions of propellant having different compositions, different grain structures, or both. An axially extending initiation bore containing an initiation element may extend through a center of the propellant structure, or may be laterally offset from the center. An offset initiation bore may be employed with a composite grain structure. Methods of tailoring ballistic characteristics of propellant burn to result in desired operational pressure pulse characteristics are also disclosed. |
US09447670B2 |
Self-orienting fracturing sleeve and system
A self-orientating fracturing system including a swivel sub having opposing sections rotatable relative to one another; at least one ported sleeve defining a flowpath and having a ported housing with an outer surface that includes at least one planar engagement surface and at least one port providing a communication path to the interior of said housing, and an insert moveable within the ported housing between a first position and a second position, for opening and closing the ported sleeve. The system includes a centralizer having an outer surface configured to impart rotational force to the centralizer when the centralizer is pushed or culled alone the surface of a wellbore. The sorted sleeve and the centralizer are installed in the assembly on the same side of the swivel sub such that the rotational force imparted to the centralizer is also imparted to the swivel sub. |
US09447667B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for controlling combustion gas output in direct steam generation for oil recovery
An apparatus, system, and method for controlling combustion gas output in direct steam generation for oil recovery. A direct combustion steam generator burns a fuel and an oxygen-containing gas mixture to produce combustion products including steam, CO2 and N2. Supplemental oxygen is separately supplied to the combustion steam generator to adjust the oxygen content of the oxygen-containing gas mixture during the combustion process in order to adjust the ratio of CO2 to N2 produced in the combustion products. |
US09447665B2 |
Apparatus for connecting and disconnecting a downhole assembly
In a well extending from the surface of the earth to a deposit of production fluid there beneath, a system for delivering the contents of the deposit to the earth's surface. The system comprising a rod string capable of being driven by a source of motive power at the earth's surface, including an internally overshot assembly rod at the end of the rod string; a downhole assembly, including a pump and receiver with a shaft extending upwardly from the downhole assembly, the receiver shaft being connectable to the overshot assembly such that rotation of the rod string and overshot assembly drives the pump to push the production fluid to the surface of the earth. |
US09447664B2 |
Multi-zone formation evaluation systems and methods
A formation evaluation system and method. A formation evaluation system includes an assembly interconnected as part of a tubular string and displaceable to multiple positions proximate each of multiple zones intersected by a wellbore. The assembly includes at least one formation evaluation instrument for determining a characteristic of formation fluid, and a pump which draws the fluid into the assembly. A method of evaluating multiple subterranean zones during a single trip into a wellbore includes the steps of: interconnecting a formation evaluation assembly in a coiled tubing string; for each of the multiple zones, displacing the formation evaluation assembly to a position proximate the respective zone, receiving formation fluid from the respective zone into the formation evaluation assembly, and determining at least one characteristic of the formation fluid; and performing the multiple displacing, receiving and determining steps during the single trip of the coiled tubing string into the wellbore. |
US09447663B1 |
Abrasive perforator with fluid bypass
An abrasive perforator tool with a bypass flow channel. The tool comprises a tubular body or housing with perforating nozzles in the sidewall. A sleeve assembly inside the central bore of the tool provides for sequential deployment of first and second sleeves. Prior to deployment of the sleeve assembly, pressurized fluid can be passed through the tool to operate other tools beneath the perforator in the bottom hole assembly. Deployment of the first sleeve diverts pressurized fluid through the nozzles for perforating. Deployment of the second sleeve redirects the pressurized flow through the outlet of the tool to resume operation of other tools below the perforator. |
US09447661B2 |
Gravel pack and sand disposal device
An apparatus and method allow gravel pack slurry to be placed in a borehole annulus from the toe towards the heel to reduce the pressure acting upon the heel of the borehole during the gravel placement operation. By reducing the pressure on the heel, the gravel pack slurry may be placed in longer sections of the borehole in a single operation. Additionally, excess slurry in the inner string can be disposed in the borehole annulus around the shoe track of the apparatus, and fluid returns can flow up the apparatus through a bypass. |
US09447660B2 |
Subsea well containment systems and methods
A subsea containment system for capturing fluids leaking from a subsea well includes a clamping assembly and a storage system. The clamp assembly includes an annular clamp body configured to be disposed about the upper end of the well and a fluid outlet extending from the clamp body. The fluid outlet is in fluid communication with an inner cavity of the clamp body. The storage system is coupled to the fluid outlet of the clamping assembly. The storage system includes a first storage tank having an inlet in fluid communication with the inner cavity of the clamp body and a plurality of vertically spaced outlets. |
US09447659B2 |
Tool for unseizing and lubricating well valves, and method of unseizing said valves
A tool for unseizing and/or lubricating a valve having a protruding valve stem on an exterior periphery. The tool possesses a hollow tubular member, having at one end thereof an open, hollow, cylindrical flexible member adapted to be placed over and contain therewithin a portion of the valve stem. A circumferential tightening member, encircling one end of the flexible member, is provided, to permit the flexible member to sealingly engage the valve stem about the outer periphery thereof when the flexible member is placed over the valve stem. The tool further possesses a fluid inlet port, situated along a length of the tubular member, in fluid communication with an interior of the tubular member, and a pressurized fluid inlet port likewise in fluid communication with the interior of the tool. A method for un-seizing and/or lubricating such valve, making use of the above tool, is further disclosed and claimed. |
US09447655B2 |
Methods for hanging liner from casing and articles derived therefrom
A system comprises a casing; a liner that is disposed in the casing and that is concentric with the casing; and a layer of material disposed between the liner and the casing; where the layer of material forms a first bond with the liner and a second bond with the casing thereby enabling the liner to hang from the casing. A method for hanging the liner from the casing comprises disposing in a borehole a system comprising a casing; a liner that is disposed in the casing and being concentric with the casing; and a layer of material disposed between the liner and the casing; heating the system at a point proximate to the layer of material; and forming a first bond between the layer of material and the liner and a second bond between the layer of material and the casing. |
US09447649B2 |
Packer setting mechanism
A packer system including a packer and a setting mechanism. The setting mechanism has a setting piston that is actuatable in response to a fluid pressure in order to set the packer with the setting piston. The setting mechanism prevents actuation of the setting piston until the pressure is decreased below a threshold pressure from a value greater than the threshold pressure. A method of setting a packer is also included. |
US09447644B2 |
Tubular component for drill stem capable of being cabled, and method for mounting a cable in said component
A tubular component for a drill stem that can be cabled includes a first end zone, a second end zone, a sheath, the sheath extends between the first end zone and the second end zone, and a liner fixed in a bore of the first end zone. The liner includes at least one take-up chamber for a cable disposed in the sheath. |
US09447638B2 |
Access device
An access device that provides access between a substrate surface and an elevated surface includes a first ladder member that is operatively attached to a mounting via a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism includes a rotatable member having three pivotal connectors spaced apart in a triangular arrangement. A first of the connectors is pivotally attached to the mounting. A second of the connectors is pivotally attached to the first ladder member via a control arm. A third of the connectors is pivotally attached to an extremity of the mounting via an extendible arm. The extendible arm causes the rotatable member to rotate about the first connector, and consequently effect movement of the access device. The access device further includes a second ladder member, a first end of which is pivotally attached to a second end of the first ladder member. |
US09447636B2 |
Battery-powered motorized window treatment having a service position
A battery-powered motorized window treatment for covering at least a portion of a window may be adjusted into a service position to allow for access to at least one battery that is powering the motorized window treatment. A headrail of the motorized window treatment may be adjusted to the service position to allow for easy replacement of the batteries without unmounting the headrail and without requiring tools. The motorized window treatment may comprise brackets having buttons that may be actuated to release the headrail from a locked position, such that the head rail may be rotated into the service position. The headrail easily rotates through a controlled movement into the service position, such that a user only needs one free hand available to move the motorized window treatment into the service position and change the batteries. |
US09447627B2 |
Window frame system for vacuum insulated glass unit
A window assembly may include a vacuum insulated glass unit and a frame assembly. The vacuum insulated glass unit may include first and second glass substrates defining a space therebetween that is at a pressure lower than atmospheric pressure. One of the first and second glass substrates may include a vacuum port extending outward therefrom. The vacuum port may define a passage in communication with the space. The frame assembly supports the glass unit and may include a base member and a glazing member. The base member and the glazing member cooperate to define a slot in which an edge portion of the glass unit is received. The glazing member may include a cavity receiving the vacuum port. The glazing member and the base member may define a plurality of pockets that hinder thermal conductivity through the frame assembly. |
US09447626B2 |
Sill pan
A method for forming a sill pan is provided that includes the measurement of a width and length of an opening sill to be sealed. A piece of flexible sill pan material is cut based on the measured opening sill. Fold lines and cuts are created in the piece to form the sill pan. The resulting sill pan is readily formed to have at least one attribute of self-adherence, draining without shims, nail hole self-sealing, and provision of dams without resort to frame cutting. |
US09447624B2 |
Step plate mechanism for door opening and closing device
A step-plate mechanism is provided for a door-opening/closing device that is powered by the downward movement of a step plate caused by a stepping force of a pedestrian, with the step plate being disposed on a floor at both the front and back of a door as seen by a pedestrian, including a return mechanism is provided to bias the step plate, which moves downward by the stepping force of the pedestrian, to return to its original position after the pedestrian passes. |
US09447621B2 |
Interconnection system for panel assemblies
A system for interconnecting multiple panel assemblies comprising a first bracketing body having a first bearing member and at least one planar member; a second bracketing body having a second bearing member pivotally engaged with the first bearing member and at least one planar member; a third bracketing body having at least one planar member; a fourth bracketing body having at least one planar member; a first panel receiving volume at least partially defined by the at least one planar member of the first and third bracketing bodies; a second panel receiving volume at least partially defined by the at least one planar members of the second and fourth bracketing bodies; and wherein the at least one planar members of the second and fourth bracketing bodies at least partially define a second panel receiving volume. According to another aspect of the present invention, a first thermal insulating body is positioned between and separates the first and third bracketing bodies, and a second thermal insulating body positioned between and separates the second and fourth bracketing bodies. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a fastenerless connection is provided between surfaces of the system and the panel assemblies. |
US09447607B2 |
Disc tumbler cylinder lock and key combination
The rotation limiter disc elements of a disc tumbler cylinder lock-key-combination are arranged to be rotated by a key. The rotation limiting elements have no pieces non-rotatably attached to the inner cylinder. The rotation limiter disc elements are composed of a frame piece and a limiter piece. The frame piece is a circular disc having an opening in the middle of the disc. The opening extends up to the border of the disc widening towards the border, and to the section on the wider side of the opening is disposed a limiter piece. On the inner surface of the inner cylinder is a recess at the site of the limiter disc elements. The key has at least one bevel-edged cavity. |
US09447601B2 |
Portable environmental containment unit
A portable adaptable enclosure for providing environmental control and containment of contaminants for a variety of onsite applications. The enclosure utilizes a limited number of tubular construction elements that are interlinked together to form an integrated expandable use enclosure defined by extending interengaging vertical and horizontal tubular elements in a terrain adaptable extensible structure. Telescopically adjust support elements with interengaging multi-directional attachment fittings allow for successive erection and extension in linear and off access orientation in a sequential step fashion to follow work defined directional requirements in the field. |
US09447594B2 |
Inground pool wall and deck support
The present invention provides a pool wall and deck support member including modular and symmetrical upper and lower halves adapted to be interconnected to one another to form a unitary support member. Each half is essentially V-shaped with the bottom of the V having a pair of fastening elements disposed thereon and adapted to securely engage corresponding fastening elements disposed on the bottom of the V of the opposite half. Disposed on the ends of the upwardly extending legs of the V-shaped members are fastening elements that are adapted to engage a cross bar that extends across the V-shaped member. |
US09447590B2 |
Levelling spacer device for laying slab products for cladding surfaces
A levelling spacer device (10) for laying slab products (P) for cladding surfaces, which device (10) comprises a base (20), positionable on a backside of a laying surface of at least two slab products (P) that are adjacent and flanked with respect to a flanking direction (A), at least a separator element (30) emerging from the base (20), able to contact the facing flanks of the two slab products (P), and mobile between a storage position in which it lies substantially parallel to the base (20) and a work position in which it emerges substantially perpendicular to the base (20); the peculiarity of the device consisting in the fact of comprising blocking means (250, 311) of the separator element (30) in the work position. |
US09447588B2 |
Floor covering
A floor covering having a web- or plate-shaped base material made from an elastomer material, wherein the base material is provided with mineral decorative particles, and wherein the density of the mineral decorative particles is not greater than 3 kg/dm3. |
US09447586B2 |
Joint for panels
A joint (1) having a first edge (2) and a second edge (3), the first edge (2) being provided with a distal edge (21) and a downwards protruding heel (22). The distal edge (21) is further provided with an upper joint edge (25) beneath which a groove (23) is arranged. The second edge (3) is provided with lower cheek (31) having a distal end (32) at which an upwards protruding lower cheek heel (33) is arranged. The second edge (3) is further provided with an upper joining edge (35) beneath which an undercut (34) is arranged. A moveable locking element (40) is arranged in the space created by the undercut (34). The moveable locking element (40) have a locking tongue (41), a locking tongue leg (42) and a maneuvering leg (43). |
US09447584B2 |
Faade wall attachment device
A facade attachment device for connecting an exterior façade wall to a support wall. The base has an elongated member extending transversely from a mounting plate. The elongated member has a plurality of teeth. The retainer has an insulation engaging portion, a facade attachment portion, and a receiving passage. The receiving passage is sized to receive the elongated member. The receiving passage extends through the insulation engaging portion. The retainer has a ratcheting mechanism. The ratcheting mechanism comprises a locking member engageable with at least one of the plurality of teeth of the elongated member to prevent retainer from moving in at least one direction. The façade attachment portion is configured to receive a connection with the façade wall. |
US09447583B2 |
Dormer roof vent
A roof vent is provided comprising a base with an opening for air inlet/outlet, wherein the base opening may have raised venting edges. The base is connected to a cover over the base opening including at least one louver for air flow and a front opening. Sloped side walls connect the base and cover. The front edge of the top of the cover has a lip angled down over the front opening. The lip reduces leakage into the vent. A mesh grill or cover can be included in the front opening. A rectangular strip with drainage holes can be included at the bottom of the front opening, to secure the mesh grill in place. The rectangular strip can include drainage holes. Shingles can be placed on the cover so the vent blends in with the roof. |
US09447579B2 |
Sliding door and pivoting door for demountable wall system
A demountable modular wall system including a series of individual wall panels that can be positioned adjacent to each other. The demountable system includes a doorway defined by a pair of spaced vertical posts and a horizontal header. In one embodiment, a sliding glass door is movable along a sliding door track mounted to the horizontal header. A lower trim assembly mounted to the bottom end of the sliding glass door adjusts the overall height of the door. The doorway can also include a pivoting glass door. The pivoting glass door includes a bottom pivot assembly having a bottom clamp adjustably positioned along a bottom end of the pivoting glass door. The adjustable bottom clamp can be moved along the bottom end of the pivoting glass door and receives a pivot pin supported on the floor. A top pivot assembly includes a movable plunger that defines a portion of the pivot axis for the pivoting glass door. |
US09447577B2 |
Sound absorbing sheet having micro resonant structure, method for manufacturing same, and sound absorption type soundproof panel using same
Disclosed are a sound absorbing sheet having a micro resonant structure and capable of improving sound absorption performance up to the low frequency band by means of the micro resonance principle, a method for manufacturing same, and a sound absorption type soundproof panel using same. The sound absorbing sheet according to the present invention has multiple uneven patterns configured to have convex parts and concave parts on one surface of a porous base material, and the area ratio of the concave part determined by the following formula 1 is 40 to 99%. The area corresponding to the concave part has a lower air permeability than the area corresponding to the convex part. Area ratio of concave portion=[area portion of concave portion]/[area portion of porous base material]. [Formula 1] |
US09447571B2 |
Automatic flushing mechanism
An automatic flushing mechanism includes an electronic control box containing a motor and an intermittent motion gear coupled to a rotation shaft of the motor. The intermittent motion gear is configured to rotate when the motor is operated. The intermittent motion gear includes a toothed portion including a plurality of gear teeth. The automatic flushing mechanism includes an intermittent motion pendulum rod including a first end pivotally attached to the electronic control box via a rotation shaft, a second end coupled to a flush valve, and a curved rack including a plurality of rack teeth which mesh with the gear teeth of the intermittent motion gear. Rotation of the intermittent motion gear causes the curved rack to be lifted upward, thereby rotating the intermittent motion pendulum rod about the rotation shaft and lifting the flush valve. |
US09447565B2 |
Sanitary component, namely jet regulator or jet former for flowing, fluid media, method of producing such a sanitary component and use of a sanitary component
The invention relates to a sanitary component, namely a stream regulator or stream former for flowing fluid media, consisting of property-defining components in a sandwich-like arrangement in the direction of flow which comprise at least one screen attachment, one diffuser plate assembly as well as a shell body having segments of stream-forming openings extending across its cross-sectional surface. The property-defining components are exchangeable and combinable so as to realize adaptability to different user and user requirements. A locking means is provided e.g. on the inner circumference of the shell body for this purpose as is a corresponding counter-locking means on the outer circumference of the diffuser plate assembly. The diffuser plate assembly exhibits, at least on its exterior, a flow rate class-specifying optical code and the shell body exhibits a stream type-specifying, namely laminar or aerated, optical code. |
US09447561B2 |
Machine bucket
A machine bucket may include a torque tube having an outer surface. The machine bucket may also include a support plate coupled to the torque tube. The support plate may include a bottom surface. The machine bucket may further include a base edge including a cutting edge. The machine bucket may also include a curved wrapper located between the support plate and the base edge. A ratio of a maximum distance between the curved wrapper and a first line extending from the base edge to the outer surface of the torque tube where the bottom surface of the support plate intersects the outer surface of the torque tube, taken substantially perpendicularly from the first line, relative to a length of the first line, may be about 0.61 to 0.63. |
US09447558B2 |
Offshore foundation for wind energy installations
This invention relates to an offshore supporting structure (1) for wind energy installations with multiple, preferably six, specifically tubular piles (2) that can be anchored in the seabed, and a latticework structure (4) assembled from multiple bars, specifically steel tubes (14). Pursuant to the invention, we propose that the latticework structure (4) be assembled from multiple, prefabricated latticework segments (6, 8, 10, 12), where each latticework segment (6, 8, 10, 12) has six lower corners (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) and six upper corners (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), where the upper corners (5a, 5b, 5c) of one latticework segment (6, 8, 10) can be attached to the lower corners (3b, 3c, 3d) of an adjacent latticework segment (8, 10, 12). |
US09447557B2 |
Footer, footer elements, and buildings, and methods of forming same
Footer products, and footers made with such products. Such product includes an insulating member between its upper and lower surfaces. The upper surface receives a load. The interior transfers the load from the upper surface to the lower surface, and distributes the load laterally and longitudinally such that the load received at the lower surface is within the load-bearing capacity of underlying soil. The product provides a thermal shock barrier between underlying soil and the interior of the building. The insulating member can comprise the entirety of the product, or can be combined with top and/or bottom load distributing layers, or can be combined with intercostals which extend top-to-bottom through the foam. Such footers are useful in constructing structures which use footers to spread the overlying load onto a greater surface area of the underlying soil than the cross-section area of the structure which presents the load to the footer. |
US09447556B2 |
Bullet anchor system
An anchor system for an erosion control mat is provided. The system includes a bullet anchor comprising a bullet anchor body and a bullet anchor strap integrally molded with and extending from a first side of the bullet anchor body. In embodiments, a lock washer is coupled to the bullet anchor strap. In embodiments, serrations on at least one side of the bullet anchor strap are adapted to prevent the lock washer from traversing the bullet anchor strap in a direction away from the bullet anchor. In embodiments, the lock washer is adapted to couple with an erosion control mat. In embodiments, an anchor tab on a second side of the bullet anchor body secures the bullet anchor body in a ground surface. The anchor system is utilized to secure the erosion control mat to the ground surface and prevent undesired movement of the erosion control mat. |
US09447552B2 |
Paving screed for a road finisher
A paving screed to be employed on a road finisher comprises a base screed, the operating width of which may be modified by protractable extending units and/or separate removable bolt-on extensions. The paving screed also includes a plurality of side plates, each being mountable on an outer end of the base screed or an extending unit or a bolt-on extension and which delimit the operating width. At least one reference element for determining the operating width is provided on one of the side plates, and that the at least one reference element is detectable by one or more sensor units when the side plates are each mounted on the outer ends of the base screed, an extending unit or a bolt-on extension. |
US09447548B2 |
Industrial mat with molded core and outer abuse surfaces
An industrial mat having a core construction that provides strength and rigidity to the mat, an encapsulation of a durable skin of a thermoplastic, thermosetting or elastomeric material that surrounds the core construction, and upper and/or lower surfaces formed by a plurality of elongated members. The elongated members of the upper and/or lower surfaces are advantageously arranged in spaced relation in at least one layer and are attached together or to the core construction for protecting the durable skin from abrasion and impact during transport, installation and use of the industrial mat. The resulting industrial mat has a load bearing capacity that is able to withstand a load of at least 600 to 1000 psi without permanent deformation. The mats of the invention typically have a width of 2 to 12 feet, a length of 2 to 40 feet and an overall thickness of 2 to 18 inches. |
US09447545B2 |
Absorbent tissue
The present disclosure offers an improvement in papermaking methods and products, by providing a tissue sheet and a method to obtain a tissue sheet, with improved absorbency at a given basis weight. Thus, by way of example, the present disclosure provides a single ply tissue sheet having a basis weight greater than about 50 gsm and a specific vertical absorbent capacity greater than about 6.0 g/g. |
US09447541B2 |
Process for treating cellulose and cellulose treated according to the process
The present invention relates to a process for purifying a slurry comprising cellulose, such as microfibrillated cellulose, wherein the process comprises the following steps: —providing a slurry comprising cellulose and liquid, —subjecting the slurry to an electric field inducing the liquid of the slurry to flow, —separating the liquid from the cellulose thus obtaining a liquid depleted slurry, —adding a washing liquid, such as an organic solvent, to the liquid depleted slurry—subjecting the liquid depleted slurry to an electric field inducing the washing liquid of the slurry to flow and—separating the washing liquid from the cellulose, thus obtaining a purified cellulose. The invention also relates to cellulose such as microfibrillated cellulose obtainable from said process. |
US09447539B2 |
Methods for converting lignocellulosic material to useful products
The present invention provides compositions and methods for the pretreatment of lignocellulosic material. The present invention further provides for pretreated lignocellulosic material that can be used to produce useful products, such as fermentable sugars. |
US09447538B2 |
System for steam treatment of textiles
A steam treatment system (10) for textiles can include a detachable hanger (14) which is removably attachable to a steam unit (12). The steam unit (12) can include a vaporizing element (16) which is operatively connectable to a water source (18) and is designed to produce steam. A steam outlet (20) with a shut-off valve (22) can also be part of the steam unit (12). The detachable hanger (14) can be configured to support an article of textile such as a shirt, suit, dress, slacks, towel or the like. More particularly, the hanger (14) can include a support body enclosing a steam chamber (24) and a steam inlet (26) which is removably attachable to the steam outlet (20) of the steam unit (12). In this manner the detachable hanger (14) can be removably coupled to the steam unit (12) to allow steam to fill the hanger (14). The support body can also include a plurality of steam vents or apertures (30) which are oriented to transmit steam from the steam chamber (24) to the article of textile supported thereon. Such a steam treatment system (10) can find effective application in homes and service oriented businesses such as hotels and gyms. |
US09447535B2 |
Diffuser for cleaning a fluff-laden component
A cleaning diffuser is disposed above a fluff-laden component and receives rinsing fluid for distributing the rinsing fluid to the fluff-laden component to detach fluff and carry it away. The diffuser is constructed to enable a buildup of dynamic pressure in the rinsing fluid and has two feed ducts which extend at a distance from one another in substantially parallel relationship so that rinsing fluid entering the diffuser is divided between the feed ducts. The feed ducts terminate in pockets in a wall at an end of the diffuser and have, relative to their entire duct length, a narrow, three-dimensional transverse mutual connection in the form of a transverse chamber. The diffuser has at least one narrow outlet opening which extends from the three-dimensional transverse connection to a lower side of the diffuser for distributing the rinsing fluid to the fluff-laden component. |
US09447534B2 |
Laundry machine
A laundry machine is disclosed. The bearing housing and the suspensions may be distant from each other with respect to a radial direction as well as an axial direction of the shaft. As a result, the suspension unit may include a radial bracket extended radially or axial bracket extended axially. |
US09447532B2 |
Automated assembly and stitching of shoe parts
Manufacturing of a shoe or a portion of a shoe is enhanced by executing various shoe-manufacturing processes in an automated manner. For example, shoe parts may be retrieved and temporarily assembled according to preset relative positions to form part stacks. The part stacks may be retrieved with the relative positioning of the shoe parts being maintained and placed at a stitching machine for more permanent attachment via stitching of the parts to form a shoe assembly. Movement during stitching of a conveyance mechanism that transfers the part stack from the stacking surface to the stitching machine and movement of a needle associated with the stitching machine may be controlled by a shared control mechanism such that the movements are synchronized with respect to one another. Vision systems may be leveraged to achieve movement and position information between and at machines and locations. |
US09447529B2 |
Cord material and methods of using same
A cord material suitable for use in lined textile structures with a gliding component includes a plurality of uniform strands, and a deviant strand. The deviant strand is different from the uniform strands in some characteristic affecting aerodynamic or hydrodynamic properties of the cord, such as size or surface properties. Each uniform strand can have a substantially equal cross section area, while the deviant strand has a cross section area at least five times greater than one of the uniform strands. The strands can be braided or woven together. A major benefit of the material can be that vibration induced drag is significantly reduced or eliminated in lines made with the material. Another advantage is that lines made from the material can have more consistent, predictable line drag, which can improve the quality of handling. |
US09447526B2 |
Method and device for producing intertwining knots
Techniques produce intertwining knots in a multifilament thread. In such techniques, an air stream pulse is generated by a nozzle channel opening into a treatment channel periodically with an interval between successive air stream pulses. During an interval, the air stream pulse is directed transversely onto the thread guided in the treatment channel so that a continuous sequence of intertwining knots is produced in the running thread. An auxiliary air stream is generated continuously or discontinuously and the auxiliary air stream and the air stream pulse are blown in together into the treatment channel. |
US09447524B2 |
Sea islands fiber
An islands-in-sea fiber includes island components and a sea component arranged to surround the island components, wherein the island components and the sea component are composed of at least two polymers and are provided on a fiber cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the fiber axis. The islands-in-sea fiber is a raw yarn for a combined filament yarn, which can be used to produce a cloth having good tension and drape and an excellent color-developing property. An islands-in-sea fiber in which at least two types of island components having different diameters are arranged on the same fiber cross section, the islands-in-sea fiber characterized in that at least one type of the island components have diameters of 10-1000 nm and have fluctuations in diameters of 1.0-20.0%. |
US09447523B2 |
Melt blown fiber forming process and method of making fibrous structures
A melt blowing process comprising: (a) providing a thermoplastic polymer material that includes at least one or a plurality of polyester polymers and at least one or a combination of different meltable metal phosphinates; and (b) melt blowing the thermoplastic polymer material into at least one fiber or a plurality of fibers, with each fiber having a diameter or thickness that is less than about 10 microns. The metal phosphinate is in an amount that (a) reduces the viscosity of the polyester polymer and (b) functions as a crystallizing agent, which at least promotes crystallization of the polyester polymer, when the thermoplastic polymer material is melt blown into the at least one fiber. Non-woven and woven fibrous structures can be made using fibers made from this process. |
US09447522B2 |
Extrusion method
A method is provided for producing solid material filaments or films from a fluid of the material, by extruding the fluid by one or more extrusion openings and by solidifying the material in a precipitation bath. The formed material is guided between the extrusion openings and the precipitation bath by a lateral gas flow. The gas flow is subdivided into a hot partial flow and a cold partial flow. The material is initially brought into contact with the hot partial flow and subsequently with the cold partial flow prior to it being introduced into the precipitation bath. A device is also provided for extruding and forming materials. |
US09447521B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing large, single-crystals of aluminum nitride
Bulk single crystals of AlN having a diameter greater than about 25 mm and dislocation densities of about 10,000 cm−2 or less and high-quality AlN substrates having surfaces of any desired crystallographic orientation fabricated from these bulk crystals. |
US09447516B2 |
Method for manufacturing a silicon monocrystal seed and a silicon-wafer, silicon-wafer and silicon solar-cell
Within the scope of a Silicon-wafer making, in which a silicon monocrystal seed is arranged in the bottom region of a crucible, wherein the silicon monocrystal seed has a seed surface with a {110}-crystal orientation parallel to the bottom region of the crucible, in which liquid high-purity silicon is solidified, starting from the seed surface of the silicon monocrystal seed, and in which the silicon block is split into Silicon-wafers in such a manner that a wafer surface has a {100}-crystal orientation, wherein the silicon monocrystal seed is manufactured from a silicon monocrystal block, the block axis of which has a [110]-spatial orientation, wherein the silicon monocrystal block is cut-off for forming the seed surface of the silicon monocrystal seed with the {110}-crystal orientation parallel to the block axis. |
US09447513B2 |
Nano-scale structures
Nano-scale structures are provided wherein nano-structures are formed on a substrate surface and a base material is applied between the nano-structures. |
US09447512B2 |
Electrochemical cell used in production of hydrogen using Cu—Cl thermochemical cycle
The electrochemical cell consists of hollow tube and centralized copper rod. The tubes have first and second ends. The first end cap is used to close the first open end. The anolyte inlet is extended through the first end cap in anolyte compartment and catholyte inlet is extended through the first end cap in catholyte compartment. The anolyte and catholyte compartments are separated by ion exchange membrane fixed over inner hollow tube having holes on the surface. A first Teflon gasket has provision for inlet of anolyte and catholyte tube is secured between first tubes end and first end cap. The copper rod is placed at the center of the tubes acts as cathode. The circular ring works as scrapper to take out deposited copper is provided. A second end cap is used to close the second open. A second Teflon gasket is secured between second tubes end and second end cap. The second end cap has provision for anolyte outlet and comprises a conical dome to collect the deposited copper and transport it along with catholyte. The anolyte trappers and catholyte trappers are connected through the tubes to anolyte and catholyte half cells. The anolyte and catholyte are re-circulated through peristaltic pumps, one on each side. |
US09447508B2 |
Hydrogen production device and method for producing hydrogen
A hydrogen production device of the present invention includes a photoelectric conversion portion having a light-receiving surface and a back surface, a first electrolysis electrode provided on the back surface, and a second electrolysis electrode provided on the back surface. As a result of reception of light by the photoelectric conversion portion, a potential difference is generated between a first area on the back surface and a second area on the back surface, the first area becomes electrically connected to the first electrolysis electrode, and the second area becomes electrically connected to the second electrolysis electrode. When the first electrolysis electrode and the second electrolysis electrode contact an electrolyte solution, the first electrolysis electrode forms a hydrogen generation portion that generates H2 from the electrolyte solution using an electromotive force generated as a result of reception of light by the photoelectric conversion portion and the second electrolysis electrode forms an oxygen generation portion that generates O2 from the electrolyte solution using the electromotive force. |
US09447507B2 |
Cleaner composition for formed metal articles
The present invention discloses an improved cleaning composition for cleaning metal surfaces such as aluminum and aluminum-containing alloys. The cleaning composition of the present invention comprises water and an ethoxylate of an alcohol having Formula R1—OH wherein R1 is a saturated or unsaturated, straight-chain or branched aliphatic having from 12 to 80 carbon atoms; an inorganic pH adjusting component; and at least one surfactant that is different than the ethoxylate set forth above. The cleaning composition of the present invention also has an average water-break-free percent reduction of less than 50% after 7 days aging of a working composition prepared from the cleaning composition. The present invention also provides a method of cleaning a metal surface with the cleaning composition of the invention. |
US09447506B2 |
Cathodic protection of a concrete structure
Corrosion of steel in a concrete structure such as a column in sea water occurs primarily above the water line and is inhibited using cathodic protection by attaching to the column an impervious sealed sleeve in which is provided a sacrificial anode in sheet form in contact with a layer of water transport medium so that water from the location of the bottom of the water transport medium within the water is carried into the area of the sacrificial anode to enhance ionic current. |
US09447505B2 |
Wet etching methods for copper removal and planarization in semiconductor processing
Exposed copper regions on a semiconductor substrate can be etched by a wet etching solution comprising (i) one or more complexing agents selected from the group consisting of bidentate, tridentate, and quadridentate complexing agents; and (ii) an oxidizer, at a pH of between about 5 and 12. In many embodiments, the etching is substantially isotropic and occurs without visible formation of insoluble species on the surface of copper. The etching is useful in a number of processes in semiconductor fabrication, including for partial or complete removal of copper overburden, for planarization of copper surfaces, and for forming recesses in copper-filled damascene features. Examples of suitable etching solutions include solutions comprising a diamine (e.g., ethylenediamine) and/or a triamine (e.g., diethylenetriamine) as bidentate and tridentate complexing agents respectively and hydrogen peroxide as an oxidizer. In some embodiments, the etching solutions further include pH adjustors, such as sulfuric acid, aminoacids, and carboxylic acids. |
US09447504B1 |
Method of etching using inkjet printing
A process of patterning a conductive film. The process comprises providing a substrate comprising a conductive film positioned on a surface of the substrate. A hydrophilic primer layer is coated on the conductive film. Droplets of etchant are ejected from an inkjet printer in an imagewise pattern onto the primer layer to pattern the conductive film. The primer layer is removed from the substrate. |
US09447498B2 |
Method for performing uniform processing in gas system-sharing multiple reaction chambers
A method for performing uniform processing in multiple reaction chambers includes (a) conducting a cycle constituted by steps in each reaction chamber according to the order of the reaction chambers at which the steps are conducted; and then (b) conducting the steps in each reaction chamber after changing the immediately prior order of the reaction chambers at which the steps are conducted; and then (c) repeating process (b) until a target treatment is complete at the multiple reaction chambers. The target treatment conducted on a substrate in each reaction chamber is the same. |
US09447488B2 |
Aluminum titanium nitride coating with adapted morphology for enhanced wear resistance in machining operations and method thereof
The present invention relates to an (AI,Ti)N coating exhibiting at least two different coating portions, A and B, having grain size in nanometer magnitude order characterized in that the coating portion A exhibit larger grain size and higher elastic modulus than the coating portion B. The present invention relates as well to a method for coating a substrate with a coating as described above whereby at least the coating portion A and/or the coating portion B of the (AI,Ti)N coating are/is deposited by means of PVD techniques. |
US09447485B2 |
Ni3(Si, Ti)-based intermetallic compound to which Ta is added
The present invention provides a structural material having excellent hardness (strength) characteristics.The present invention provides an Ni3(Si, Ti)-based intermetallic compound characterized by containing from 25 to 500 ppm by weight of B with respect to a weight of an intermetallic compound having a composition of 100% by atom in total consisting of from 10.0 to 12.0% by atom of Si, 1.5% by atom or more but less than 7.5% by atom of Ti, more than 2.0% by atom but 8.0% by atom or less of Ta and a balance made up of Ni excepting impurities, and by having a microstructure composed of an L12 phase or a microstructure composed of an L12 phase and a second phase dispersion containing Ni and Ta. |
US09447483B2 |
System and method for parallel solution extraction of one or more metal values from metal-bearing materials
The present disclosure relates to a process and system for recovery of one or more metal values using solution extraction techniques and to a system for metal value recovery. In an exemplary embodiment, the solution extraction system comprises a first solution extraction circuit and a second solution extraction circuit. A first metal-bearing solution is provided to the first and second circuit, and a second metal-bearing solution is provided to the first circuit. The first circuit produces a first rich electrolyte solution, which can be forwarded to primary metal value recovery, and a low-grade raffinate, which is forwarded to secondary metal value recovery. The second circuit produces a second rich electrolyte solution, which is also forwarded to primary metal value recovery. The first and second solution extraction circuits have independent organic phases and each circuit can operate independently of the other circuit. |
US09447482B2 |
Magnesium-based alloy produced using a silicon compound and method for producing same
The present invention relates to a magnesium-based alloy, and to a method for producing same. The method comprises the steps of: melting a magnesium alloy into a liquid state; adding a silicon compound to said molten magnesium alloy; exhausting the silicon compound through a full reaction between said molten magnesium alloy and said added silicon compound such that the silicon compound does not substantially remain in the magnesium alloy; and exhausting the silicon produced as a result of said exhaustion in the precious step such that the silicon may not substantially remain in said magnesium alloy. |
US09447480B2 |
Method of ore processing
A method of selectively leaching a metal such as nickel from an ore or ore processing intermediate comprising the metal and cobalt. The ore or ore processing intermediate is contacted with an acidic leach solution comprising an amount of an oxidising agent sufficient to oxidise a major portion of the cobalt to thereby cause it to be stabilised in the solid phase while a major portion of the metal is dissolved for subsequent recovery. |
US09447479B2 |
Method of treating recyclable raw materials
A method of treating recyclable raw materials containing valuable metals is provided, the method including the steps of feeding recyclable raw materials (W) containing valuable metals into a rotary kiln furnace (2) in which a refractory product having an Al2O3—Cr2O3 content of 70% or greater is used for an inner wall; feeding an additive (A) containing SiO2 as a major component into the rotary kiln furnace (2) so as to increase a viscosity of a slag (S) flowing along the inner wall, thereby the recyclable raw materials (W) are attached on the slag (S) having a high viscosity such that at least part of the recyclable raw materials (W) is exposed to the inside of the rotary kiln furnace; and burning/melting the recyclable raw materials (W) attached on the slag (S) in the rotary kiln furnace (2). |
US09447478B2 |
Method for recovering tungsten compound
[Object] To efficiently recover tungsten from an object containing tungsten by a simple treatment process using a microorganism with reduced environmental load.[Solution] A method for recovering a tungsten compound is provided which includes the step of preparing a tungsten compound solution in which tungsten-containing polyatomic ions are dissolved, by eluting the metal component of an object containing tungsten into an alkaline solution; the adsorption step of adsorbing the tungsten-containing polyatomic ions to a microorganism by introducing the microorganism to the tungsten compound solution and adjusting the tungsten compound solution to an acidic level; and the collecting and washing step of collecting the microorganism to which the tungsten-containing polyatomic ions are adsorbed and washing the microorganism. |
US09447470B2 |
Tumor grading and cancer prognosis
The disclosure includes the identification and use of gene expression profiles, or patterns, with clinical relevance to cancer. In particular, the disclosure includes the identities of genes that are expressed in correlation with tumor grade. The levels of gene expression are disclosed as a molecular index for determining tumor grade in a patient and predicting clinical outcome, and so prognosis, for the patient. The molecular grading of cancer may optionally be used in combination with a second molecular index for diagnosing cancer and its prognosis. The disclosure further includes methods for predicting cancer recurrence, and/or predicting occurrence of metastatic cancer. For diagnosis or prognosis, the disclosure further includes methods for determining or selecting the treatment of cancer based upon the likelihood of life expectancy, cancer recurrence, and/or cancer metastasis. |
US09447469B2 |
Identification of genetic variants
The present disclosure provides a method for identifying whether a subject is more or less likely to be responsive to VEGF-based therapy, comprising screening a nucleic acid sample obtained from the subject to provide output information which identifies the presence or absence of an allelic variant, wherein the presence or absence of an allelic variant indicates whether the subject is more or less likely to be responsive to VEGF-based therapy. |
US09447460B2 |
Method for detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for rapidly and simply detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms. The present invention is a method for detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms, comprising analyzing wild-type and mutant-type products amplified by an AS-PCR method using ion-exchange chromatography. |
US09447446B2 |
Lipid multilayer microarrays and their use for cell culture screening
Provided is a device having one or more lipid multilayer arrays of lipid multilayer structures on a substrate. Each lipid multilayer structure encapsulates an encapsulated material that may be delivered to a cell that is in contact with the lipid multilayer structure to determine the cellular response of the cell to the encapsulated material. |
US09447445B2 |
Synthon formation
This disclosure provides, among other things, a composition comprising: a 5′ exonuclease; a strand-displacing polymerase; and optionally a single strand DNA binding protein and/or a ligase. A method for polynucleotide assembly to form a synthon, as well as a kit for performing the same, are also described. |
US09447444B2 |
Biosynthesis of opiate alkaloids
The disclosure relates to a nucleic acid molecule isolated from a Papaver somniferum cultivar that produces the opiate alkaloid noscapine which comprises 10 genes involved in the biosynthesis of opiate alkaloids. |
US09447440B2 |
Microorganisms for C4-dicarboxylic acid production
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having bicarbonate transporter activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides, and methods of producing C4-dicarboxylic acids, such as malic acid. |
US09447439B2 |
Microorganism producing 4-hydroxybutyrate and a method for producing 4-hydroxybutyrate in anaerobic condition using the same
A genetically modified microorganism comprising a polynucleotide encoding α-ketoglutarate synthase or a mutant thereof, and a polynucleotide encoding pyruvate carboxylase or a mutant thereof; wherein the genetically modified microorganism has decreased malate quinone oxidoreductase activity and/or decreased phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase activity compared to an unmodified microorganism of the same type, and wherein the genetically modified microorganism produces 4-hydroxybutyrate. |
US09447438B2 |
Acetyl-coA carboxylases
The present invention provides various combinations of genetic modifications to a transformed host cell that provide increase conversion of carbon to a chemical product. The present invention also provides methods of fermentation and methods of making various chemical products. |
US09447429B2 |
Method to trigger RNA interference
A method to generate siRNAs in vivo is described, as are constructs and compositions useful in the method. The method does not depend on the use of DNA or synthetic constructs that contain inverted duplications or dual promoters so as to form perfect or largely double-stranded RNA. Rather, the method depends on constructs that yield single-stranded RNA transcripts, and exploits endogenous or in vivo-produced miRNAs or siRNAs to initiate production of siRNAs. The miRNAs or siRNAs guide cleavage of the transcript and set the register for production of siRNAs (usually 21 nucleotides in length) encoded adjacent to the initiation cleavage site within the construct. The method results in specific formation of siRNAs of predictable size and register (phase) relative to the initiation cleavage site. The method can be used to produce specific siRNAs in vivo for inactivation or suppression of one or more target genes or other entities, such as pathogens. |
US09447428B2 |
Soybean transgenic event MON 87708 and methods of use thereof
The invention provides a transgenic soybean event MON 87708 plant and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products derived from event MON 87708. The invention also provides polynucleotides specific for event MON 87708 and plants, plant cells, seeds, plant parts, and commodity products comprising polynucleotides specific for event MON 87708. The invention also provides methods related to event MON 87708. |
US09447427B2 |
Production of FatA TE-overexpressing plants with improved tolerance to water deficit
The present invention relates to a method for increasing the tolerance of a plant to water deficit, which method comprises the overexpression in said plant of a FatA TE (acyl-ACP thioesterase) protein. |
US09447426B2 |
Polynucleotide encoding NF-YB derived from jatropha and use thereof
By analyzing a Jatropha genome, NF-YB-encoding genes of SEQ ID NOs: 1 to 11, fragments of NF-YB-encoding genes of SEQ ID NOs: 12 and 13, and genes relating thereto were found. By transforming Jatropha with these NF-YB-encoding genes and the like, it is possible to overexpress a NF-YB polypeptide and so on, and to significantly improve the productivity of protein synthesis involved by the NF-YB polypeptide, and to significantly improve the dry stress resistance, for example. As a result, it is possible to create dry stress resistant Jatropha capable of ensuring high growth even under water deficient conditions. |
US09447420B2 |
RNA interference mediated inhibition of catenin (cadherin-associated protein), beta 1 (CTNNB1) gene expression using short interfering nucleic acid (SINA)
The present invention relates to compounds, compositions, and methods for the study, diagnosis, and treatment of traits, diseases and conditions that respond to the modulation of CTNNB1 gene expression and/or activity, and/or modulate a beta-catenin gene expression pathway. Specifically, the invention relates to double-stranded nucleic acid molecules including small nucleic acid molecules, such as short interfering nucleic acid (siNA), short interfering RNA (siRNA), double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) molecules that are capable of mediating or that mediate RNA interference (RNAi) against CTNNB1 gene expression. |
US09447419B2 |
RNAi-mediated inhibition of tumor necrosis factor α-related conditions
RNA interference is provided for inhibition of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) by silencing TNFα cell surface receptor TNF receptor-1 (TNFR1) mRNA expression, or by silencing TNFα converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM17) mRNA expression. Silencing such TNFα targets, in particular, is useful for treating patients having a TNFα-related condition or at risk of developing a TNFα-related condition such as the ocular conditions dry eye, allergic conjunctivitis, or ocular inflammation, or such as dermatitis, rhinitis, or asthma, for example. |
US09447417B2 |
Multiple exon skipping compositions for DMD
Provided are antisense molecules capable of binding to a selected target site in the human dystrophin gene to induce exon skipping, and methods of use thereof to treat muscular dystrophy. |
US09447416B2 |
Multiple exon skipping compositions for DMD
Provided are antisense molecules capable of binding to a selected target site in the human dystrophin gene to induce exon skipping, and methods of use thereof to treat muscular dystrophy. |
US09447415B2 |
Antisense oligonucleotides for inducing exon skipping and methods of use thereof
An antisense molecule capable of binding to a selected target site to induce exon skipping in the dystrophin gene, as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 to 202. |
US09447412B2 |
Oligomeric compounds and compositions for use in modulation of small non-coding RNAS
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression and function of small non-coding RNAs. The compositions comprise oligomeric compounds, targeted to small non-coding RNAs. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of small non-coding RNAs as well as downstream targets of these RNAs and for diagnosis and treatment of disease associated with small non-coding RNAs are also provided. |
US09447411B2 |
Methods and compositions for single cell expression profiling
Methods of obtaining a single cell expression profile from a target mammalian cell are provided. Aspects of the methods include contacting a cellular sample which includes the target mammalian cell with a packaged viral barcoded trans-splicing library including a plurality of barcoded trans-splicing constructs under transduction conditions, where a barcoded trans-splicing construct includes a trans-splicing element linked to a barcode element. The methods further include generating expression data from the resultant transduced target mammalian cell to obtain the single cell expression data from the target mammalian cell. Also provided are compositions, e.g., libraries and components thereof, which find use in practicing the methods. |
US09447409B2 |
Lysis buffers for extracting nucleic acids
The present teachings relate to the extraction of nucleic acid from solid materials. Provided are useful compositions, methods and kits for obtaining nucleic acids from a solid biological sample or an adhesive material having a biological material adherent or embedded within the adhesive substrate. The extracted nucleic acid can be used in downstream applications such as genotyping, detection, quantification, and identification of the source of the biological material. |
US09447408B2 |
Method of efficiently establishing induced pluripotent stem cells
The present invention provides a method of improving the efficiency of establishment of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells by inhibiting p38 function in the step of somatic cell nuclear reprogramming. The 38 function can be inhibited by bringing an inhibitor selected from the group consisting of (1) a chemical inhibitor of p38 (2) a dominant negative mutant of p38 or a nucleic acid that encodes the same, (3) a nucleic acid selected from the group consisting of siRNAs and shRNAs targeted to p38 and DNAs that encode the same and (4) an inhibitor of p38 pathway into contact with a somatic cell and the like. The present invention also provides an agent for improving the efficiency of establishment of induced pluripotent stem cells, which contains an inhibitor of p38 function, particularly an inhibitor selected from the group consisting of (1) a chemical inhibitor of p38 (2) a dominant negative mutant of p38 or a nucleic acid that encodes the same, (3) a nucleic acid selected from the group consisting of siRNAs and shRNAs targeted to p38 and DNAs that encode the same and (4) an inhibitor of p38 pathway. Moreover, the present invention provides a production method of iPS cells, which includes bringing a nuclear reprogramming substance and an inhibitor of p38 function into contact with a somatic cell. |
US09447405B2 |
Regulation of specific spinal neurons regulating pain transmission via chimeric toxins
A chimeric toxin is disclosed comprising a peptide ligand specifically targeting neurons involved in pain processing; and a clostridial neurotoxin light chain, wherein the ligand is linked to the light chain. The methods of preparing such chimeric toxin and the method of using the chimeric toxin to regulate pain transmission are also disclosed. |
US09447400B2 |
Beta-glucosidase I variants with improved properties
The present disclosure is generally directed to enzymes and in particular beta-glucosidase variants. Also described are nucleic acids encoding beta-glucosidase variants, compositions comprising beta-glucosidase variants, methods of using beta-glucosidase variants, and methods of identifying additional useful beta-glucosidase variants. |
US09447397B2 |
Glucoamylase variants with altered properties
The present invention relates to variants of a parent glucoamylase having altered properties (e.g., improved thermostability and/or specific activity). In particular, the present invention provides compositions comprising the variant glucoamylases, including starch hydrolyzing compositions, animal feed compositions and cleaning compositions. The invention also relates to DNA constructs encoding the variants and methods of producing the glucoamylase variants in host cells. |
US09447395B2 |
Methods and products for expressing proteins in cells
The present invention relates in part to nucleic acids encoding proteins, therapeutics comprising nucleic acids encoding proteins, methods for inducing cells to express proteins using nucleic acids, methods, kits and devices for transfecting, gene editing, and reprogramming cells, and cells, organisms, and therapeutics produced using these methods, kits, and devices. Methods and products for altering the DNA sequence of a cell are described, as are methods and products for inducing cells to express proteins using synthetic RNA molecules. Therapeutics comprising nucleic acids encoding gene-editing proteins are also described. |
US09447392B2 |
DFPase enzymes from aplysia californica
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having organophosphorous hydrolase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
US09447390B2 |
Aldehyde tags, uses thereof in site-specific protein modification
The invention features compositions and methods for site-specific modification of proteins by incorporation of an aldehyde tag. Enzymatic modification at a sulfatase motif of the aldehyde tag through action of a formylglycine generating enzyme (FGE) generates a formylglycine (FGly) residue. The aldehyde moiety of FGly residue can be exploited as a chemical handle for site-specific attachment of a moiety of interest to a polypeptide. |
US09447387B2 |
Modified forms of pseudomonas exotoxin A
Pseudomonas exotoxin A or “PE” is a 66kD, highly potent, cytotoxic protein secreted by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Various forms of PE have been coupled to other proteins, such as antibodies, to generate therapeutically useful cytotoxin conjugates that selectively target cells of a desired phenotype (such as tumor cells). In the present invention, peptides spanning the sequence of an approximately 38kD form of Pseudomonas exotoxin A protein were analyzed for the presence of immunogenic CD4+ T cell epitopes. Six immunogenic T cell epitopes were identified. Residues were identified within each epitope for introduction of targeted amino acid substitutions to reduce or prevent immunogenic T-cell responses in PE molecules which may be administered to a heterologous host. |
US09447384B2 |
Modified arsenite oxidase and a biosensor for detecting arsenite
The present invention provides an arsenite oxidase enzyme modified to prevent translocation by modification of a translocation signal sequence. A microorganism modified to express the heterologous arsenite oxidase enzyme is also provided by the invention, together with a device for detecting the presence of arsenite in a sample. |
US09447383B2 |
MDCK-derived cell lines adapted to serum-free culture and suspension culture and method for preparing vaccine virus using the cells
Disclosed is a Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK)-derived cell line. The MDCK-derived cell line is derived from MDCK cells deposited under accession number ATCC CCL-34. The MDCK-derived cell line can be prepared by serum-free culture and suspension culture. Preferably, the MDCK-derived cell line has low or no tumorigenicity. The MDCK-derived cell line is preferably selected from MDCK Sky1023, MDCK Sky10234 and MDCK Sky3851. Further disclosed are a culture method for growing the MDCK-derived cells and a method for producing a vaccine virus using the MDCK-derived cells. |
US09447382B2 |
Generation of induced pluripotent stem cells from small volumes of peripheral blood
Methods and compositions relating to the production of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) are disclosed. For example, induced pluripotent stem cells may be generated from peripheral blood cells, such as human blood progenitor cells, using episomal reprogramming and feeder-free or xeno-free conditions. In certain embodiments, the invention provides novel methods for improving overall reprogramming efficiency with low number of blood progenitor cells. |
US09447381B2 |
Hydrogel-based vascular lineage cell growth media and uses thereof
A medium for growing vascular lineage cells is described. The vascular lineage cell growth medium includes an oligosaccharide-based hydrogel and a growth factor that promotes vascularization by vascular lineage cells. |
US09447380B2 |
Non-static suspension culture of cell aggregates
The invention is directed to compositions of cell aggregates and methods for making and using the cell aggregates where the aggregates comprise cells that are not embryonic stem cells but can differentiate into cell types of at least two of ectodermal, endodermal, and mesodermal embryonic germ layers, e.g., stem cells. |
US09447379B2 |
Derivation of hematopoietic cells from adult mesenchymal stem cells
Methods and compositions for differentiating tissue resident multipotent mesenchmal stromal cells (MSCs) such as adipose tissue resident MSCs into a hematopoietic lineage are described. |
US09447378B2 |
Method for differentiating human embryonic stem cells into β-cells for the treatment of type I diabetes
The invention provides inter alia methods for differentiating embryonic stem cells into insulin producing cells, as well as compositions comprising such cells, and therapeutic uses of such compositions. |
US09447375B1 |
Methods for treating a culture of Haematococcus pluvialis for lysis using hydrogen peroxide
Methods of treating lysis in cultures of Haematococcus pluvialis with hydrogen peroxide are described herein. The method comprises dosing the culture comprising with a concentration of hydrogen peroxide based on the stage of the cells in the culturing process and at a frequency to increase the likelihood of the cells surviving until the process of accumulating carotenoids, such as astaxanthin, is complete. |
US09447374B1 |
Methods for preventing a chytrid infection in a culture of Haematococcus pluvialis using hydrogen peroxide
Methods of treating contamination, particularly fungal contamination, in cultures of Haematococcus pluvialis with hydrogen peroxide are described herein. The method comprises detecting the contamination and then dosing the culture with a concentration of hydrogen peroxide based on the stage of the cells in the culturing process and at a frequency to increase the likelihood of the cells surviving until the process of accumulating carotenoids, such as astaxanthin, is complete. |
US09447365B2 |
Enhanced cleaning process of chamber used plasma spray coating without damaging coating
A method including immersing a ceramic coated article into a bath including an HF acid solution having NH4F with a molar concentration of about 0.1M to 1.0M for a time period to remove a deposition, and rinsing the ceramic coated article. |
US09447363B2 |
Composition
The present invention relates to compositions comprising polyaspartic acid (PAS) derivatives and the use of said compositions in washing processes, especially in automatic dishwashing. |
US09447359B2 |
Lubricant composition
The invention provides a lubricating oil composition comprising: a lubricating base oil having a kinematic viscosity at 100° C. of 1-10 mm2/s, a % Cp of 70 or greater and a % CA of not greater than 2; a first viscosity index improver of 0.01-10% by mass, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the first viscosity index improver is a poly(meth)acrylate having a weight-average molecular weight of not greater than 100,000; and a second viscosity index improver of 0.01-50% by mass, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the second viscosity index improver is a polymer having a weight-average molecular weight of 100,000 or greater and containing a structural unit represented by the following formula (1) in a proportion of 0.5-70 mol %, the composition having a kinematic viscosity at 100° C. of 4-12 mm2/s and a viscosity index of 140-300. wherein R1 represents hydrogen or a methyl group and R2 represents a C16 or greater straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon, or an oxygen- and/or nitrogen-containing C16 or greater straight-chain or branched organic group. |
US09447358B2 |
Lubricant composition for internal combustion engine oil
The present disclosure relates to a lubricating oil composition containing a base oil, a thioheterocyclic compound represented by the formula: (R1)k—(S)m—As—(S)n—(R2)l, and an aminoalcohol compound containing, in the molecule thereof, a piperazine moiety and one or more hydroxyl groups. The lubricating oil composition has a phosphorus content (P mass %) and a sulfated ash content (M mass %), based on a total mass of the lubricating oil composition, satisfying any of the following conditions A to C: condition A: P<0.03, and M<0.3; condition B: P<0.03, and 0.3≦M≦0.6; and condition C: 0.03≦P≦0.06, and M<0.3. |
US09447355B2 |
Fuel for compression-ignition engines based on monooxymethylene dimethylether
A fuel for compression-ignition engines is described, which contains mono oxymethylene dimethyl ether and has a cetane number of ≧51. This fuel for compression-ignition engines advantageously contains oxygenates of the n-polyoxaalkane type and/or di-tert-butyl peroxide. Up to about 20% by weight of the mono oxymethylene dimethyl ether can be replaced by dimethyl ether. |
US09447350B2 |
Production of renewable bio-distillate
A process and system for separating a light fraction, a bio-distillate fraction, and a heavy fraction from a bio-oil, and for producing a renewable distillate including at least in part the bio-distillate fraction and a stabilizing additive, is provided. In addition, a process and system is provided for upgrading a bio-oil by use of a diluent and/or a recycle stream from the upgrading process to reduce fouling in upgrading equipment, such as a preheater and a hydrodeoxygenation unit. |
US09447347B2 |
Biofuels via hydrogenolysis-condensation
A method comprises a providing a carbohydrate; reacting the carbohydrate directly with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst to produce a reaction product comprising a polyol; and then processing at least a portion of the reaction product to form a fuel blend. |
US09447345B2 |
Lignocellulosic biomass conversion
A partially digested biomass solids is converted in a fixed bed catalytic reduction reactor under hydrothermal catalytic condition with a supported metal catalyst having a high void fraction. The catalyst having high void fraction allows high permeability and extends reaction run time. |
US09447342B2 |
Low temperature stable fatty acid composition
The present invention related to a fuel additive package for a low-sulfur diesel fuel made up of specific grades of fatty acids higher in di-unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid blended in an aromatic solvent and a compatibilizer mixture which consists of low molecular weight alcohols and low molecular weight acylated nitrogen compound, which is the reaction product of alkyl succinic anhydride and an alkanolamine. |
US09447330B2 |
Process for producing crude oil and bitumen products
Disclosed are processes for producing crude oil and bitumen products of relatively high quality from oil sand. The processes for producing the high quality crude oil and bitumen products involve a Phase I and/or Phase II extraction solvent. According to the Phase I process, a high quality bitumen-derived crude oil can be produced using a Phase I type solvent. According to the Phase II process, a substantial amount of the bitumen on the oil sand can be extracted using a Phase II type solvent, while producing a relatively dry tailings by-product. The Phase I and Phase II extraction processes can be carried out independently or in conjunction with one another. |
US09447326B2 |
Pretreatment of biomass using steam explosion methods before gasification
An integrated plant that includes a steam explosion process unit and biomass gasifier to generate syngas from biomass is discussed. A steam explosion process unit applies a combination of heat, pressure, and moisture to the biomass to make the biomass into a moist fine particle form. The steam explosion process unit applies steam with a high pressure to heat and pressurize any gases and fluids present inside the biomass to internally blow apart the bulk structure of the biomass via a rapid depressurization of the biomass with the increased moisture content. Those produced moist fine particles of biomass are subsequently fed to a feed section of the biomass gasifier, which reacts the biomass particles in a rapid biomass gasification reaction to produce syngas components. |
US09447320B2 |
Titanate luminescent material and preparation method therefor
A titanate luminescent material has a formula of A1-xTiO3:Prx@TiO2@My; wherein A is at least one selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, and Ba; M is at least one nanoparticles selected from the group consisting of Ag, Au, Pt, Pd, and Cu; 0 |
US09447318B2 |
Plastic scintillators with high loading of one or more metal carboxylates
According to one embodiment, a method includes incorporating a metal carboxylate complex into a polymeric matrix to form an optically transparent material. According to another embodiment, a material includes at least one metal carboxylate complex incorporated into a polymeric matrix, where the material is optically transparent. |
US09447317B2 |
Stannate fluorescent material and method for preparing same
The present invention provides a stannate fluorescent material having a formula: A2-xSnO4:Eux@SnO2@My; wherein A is selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, and Ba; M is at least one metal nanoparticles selected from the group consisting of Ag, Au, Pt, Pd, and Cu; 0 |
US09447314B2 |
Treatment fluids containing a perfluorinated chelating agent and methods for use thereof
Chelating agents used in conjunction with stimulation operations in a subterranean formation can often be limited by the pH range over which they may effectively complex metal ions. Perfluorinated chelating agents may have a broader effective pH range for metal ion complexation than do other types of chelating agents, particularly at highly acidic pH values. Methods for treating a subterranean formation can comprise: providing a treatment fluid comprising a perfluorinated chelating agent having at least two carboxylic acid groups; introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation; and complexing metal ions in the subterranean formation with the perfluorinated chelating agent. |
US09447309B2 |
Self-wetting adhesive composition
This disclosure provides novel adhesive compositions comprising a highly crosslinked and plasticized low Tg (meth)acrylic copolymer that are self-wetting when applied to a substrate, and peelable therefrom. |
US09447308B2 |
Curable silicone compositions, electrically conductive silicone adhesives, methods of making and using same, and electrical devices containing same
A curable silicone composition comprising a curable organosiloxane composition, copper-silver (Cu—Ag) core-shell particles, and hydrocarbon vehicle; the curable silicone composition being characterizable by: a concentration of the Cu—Ag core-shell particles of from 70 to 89 weight percent and a total concentration of silver of from 7.0 to 14 weight percent, all based on weight of the curable silicone composition; wherein the composition remains curable to an electrically conductive silicone adhesive having a volume resistivity of less than 0.020 Ohm-centimeter measured according to Volume Resistivity Test Method. |
US09447307B2 |
Extendable self-supporting material
Extendable self-supporting materials, for example, adhesive tapes, papers, and adhesive sheets, and the manufacture of adhesive tapes and papers, wherein a length of tape or other material extends rigidly a certain distance and does not coil or curl onto itself, or curl or coil prematurely onto the receiving substrate. Yet, the material maintains flexibility to be pliable and generally to conform to a surface to which it may be applied. The material is available in sheet form or as rolled goods. |
US09447305B2 |
Silicone resin, resin composition, resin film, semiconductor device, and making method
A silicone resin comprising constitutional units represented by formula (1) and having a Mw of 3,000-500,000 contains 10-50 wt % of (A-1) a first silicone resin having a silicone content of 10-40 wt % and (A-2) a second silicone resin having a silicone content of 50-80 wt %. A resin composition comprising the silicone resin can be formed in film form, and it possesses satisfactory covering or encapsulating performance to large size/thin wafers. The resin composition or resin film ensures satisfactory adhesion, low warpage, and wafer protection. The resin film is useful in wafer-level packages. |
US09447298B2 |
Ink-jet printing method
The present invention relates to [1] a pigment-containing water-based ink for ink-jet printing which is free of turbidity and excellent in capability of suppressing occurrence of image unevenness (MOTTLING) when printed on a low-water absorbing recording medium, said ink including at least one acetylene glycol (A) selected from the group consisting of 2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-decyne-4,7-diol and the like, and a nonionic surfactant (B), a content of the component (A) in the water-based ink being not less than 1.0% by mass and not more than 3.0% by mass, and a mass ratio of the component (B) to the component (A) [(B)/(A)] being not less than 1 and not more than 3; and [2] an ink-jet printing method for printing images or characters on a low-water absorbing recording medium using said water-based ink for ink-jet printing. |
US09447287B2 |
Compositions and processes for depositing carbon-doped silicon-containing films
Described herein are compositions for depositing a carbon-doped silicon containing film wherein the composition comprises a first precursor comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of: an organoaminoalkylsilane having a formula of R5Si(NR3R4)xH3−x wherein x=1, 2, 3; an organoalkoxyalkylsilane having a formula of R6Si(OR7)xH3−x wherein x=1, 2, 3; an organoaminosilane having a formula of R8N(SiR9(NR10R11)H)2; an organoaminosilane having a formula of R8N(SiR9LH)2 and combinations thereof; and optionally a second precursor comprising a compound having the formula: Si(NR1R2)H3. Also described herein are methods for depositing a carbon-doped silicon-containing film using the composition wherein the method is one selected from the following: cyclic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD), plasma enhanced ALD (PEALD) and plasma enhanced CCVD (PECCVD). |
US09447285B2 |
Coating composition
The present invention relates to a coating composition. More particularly, the present invention relates to a composition capable of forming a plastic film which exhibits high hardness and excellent processability. According to the coating composition of the present invention, a plastic film with the rare occurrence of curling and high hardness can be provided. |
US09447284B2 |
Water repellent glass plates
A water repellent glass plate, manufacturing method thereof, and a vehicle or a paned window having the same can include a glass plate having a film coating that includes a transparent micro particle covalently bound to the surface of the glass. |
US09447283B2 |
Method for producing a compound based on pseudolaminar silicates and the use thereof as a filler for polymeric materials
The present invention relates to a method for producing a compound that comprises a pseudolaminar silicate of natural origin, which is at least one clay of the paligorskite-sepiolite group, characterized in that said method comprises the following steps: defibrillating the microfiber bundles of the at least one clay in water; dispersing the defibrillated clay in an organic or inorganic liquid solvent until a stable gel is formed; adding to the dispersion at least one clay-surface-modifying agent; removing the solvent from the dispersion by means of a solid-liquid separation process and/or drying process; and deagglomerating the final compound until a powdered product is obtained. A further object of the present invention is the compound that can be obtained using said method, as well as the use of the compound as an additive or filler in composite polymeric materials in order to enhance the properties thereof, the composite polymeric material likewise being encompassed within the present invention. |
US09447282B2 |
Electrowetting device
Electrowetting apparatus including a compound comprising a plurality of colorant moieties and a linker. The plurality of colorant moieties includes a first colorant moiety having a first net dipole and a second colorant moiety having a second net dipole, wherein the plurality of colorant moieties are linked by and disposed around the linker so that the first net dipole and the second net dipole at least partially cancel each other. |
US09447281B2 |
Composite wood board
In a stack of composite wood boards, the wood boards comprise wood particles and an organic binder. |
US09447280B2 |
Derivatives of native lignin from annual fibre feedstocks
The present invention provides derivatives of native lignin having certain aliphatic hydroxyl content. Surprisingly, it has been found that consistent and predictable antioxidant activity may be provided by selecting for derivatives of native lignin having certain aliphatic hydroxyl content. |
US09447279B2 |
Waxy oxidation products of rice bran
The invention relates to waxy oxidation products of rice bran, which are characterized by an acid number measured according to DIN ISO 2114 of at least 70 mg KOH/g, preferably at least 100 mg KOH/g, most preferably at least 140 mg KOH/g, and their use for producing synthetic ester waxes by esterification with one or more mono- or polyvalent alcohols. |
US09447278B2 |
Bi-modal emulsions
Bi-modal water continuous emulsions are disclosed comprising at least 70 weight percent of a first dispersed phase containing a hydrophobic oil, wherein the hydrophobic oil is provided as a non-emulsified hydrophobic oil, a second dispersed phase containing a silicone, wherein the silicone is provided from a water continuous silicone emulsion containing at least one surfactant. |
US09447277B2 |
Curable resin composition and cured product thereof, encapsulating agent, and optical semiconductor device
Provided is a curable resin composition capable of forming a cured product that excels in heat resistance, transparency, and flexibility and particularly excels in barrier properties against a corrosive gas (e.g., sulfur oxide).The curable resin composition includes a compound (U) containing an aliphatic carbon-carbon unsaturated bond and a compound (H) containing a hydrosilyl group and includes at least one of a ladder-type silsesquioxane [A1] and a ladder-type silsesquioxane [A2], where the ladder-type silsesquioxane [A1] contains an aliphatic carbon-carbon unsaturated bond and has a number-average molecular weight of 500-1500 and a molecular weight dispersity (Mw/Mn) of 1.00-1.40 as determined by gel permeation chromatography and calibrated with a polystyrene standard, and the ladder-type silsesquioxane [A2] contains a hydrosilyl group and has a number-average molecular weight of 500-1500 and a molecular weight dispersity (Mw/Mn) of 1.00-1.40 as determined by gel permeation chromatography and calibrated with a polystyrene standard. |
US09447276B2 |
Method for reducing residual lactam monomer from polyamide compounds
Residual lactam monomer is reduced from compounds containing polyamide by adding a minor amount of polycarbodiimide during melt-mixing. |
US09447275B2 |
Molded article for automobile using thermoplastic resin composition
A molded article for an automobile is formed using a thermoplastic resin composition including (A) about 1 to about 20 wt % of a first rubber-modified acrylic-based graft copolymer having an average particle diameter of greater than or equal to about 100 nm and less than about 200 nm, (B) about 1 to about 20 wt % of a second rubber-modified acrylic-based graft copolymer having an average particle diameter of greater than or equal to about 200 nm and less than or equal to about 400 nm, (C) about 5 to about 40 wt % of a first vinyl-based copolymer of an alkyl(meth)acrylate monomer, an aromatic vinyl monomer, and an unsaturated nitrile monomer wherein the alkyl(meth)acrylate monomer is included in an amount of greater than or equal to about 50 wt %, and (D) about 50 to about 85 wt % of a polycarbonate resin, wherein the molded article is a radiator grill or an outside mirror housing. |
US09447270B2 |
Dispersion composition, and curable composition, transparent film, microlens and solid-state imaging device using same, and polymer compound
There is provided a dispersion composition containing (A) a metal oxide particle having a primary particle diameter of 1 nm to 100 nm, (B) a polymer compound represented by the specific formula having a weight average molecular weight of 5,000 to 8,000 and an acid value of 70 to 90 mgKOH/g, and (C) a solvent, and a curable composition containing the dispersion composition and (D) a polymerizable compound. |
US09447268B2 |
Resin composition
A resin composition which overcomes the defects of needle-like basic magnesium sulfate and has good balance among mechanical strength, molding productivity and the appearance of a molded article. The resin composition comprises (i) 100 parts by weight of a resin (component A), (ii) plate-like magnesium hydroxide having a crystal thickness (y) of 0.2 μm or less, a crystal width (x) of 3.5 to 10 μm and an aspect ratio of 20 to 100 (component B) and (iii) needle-like basic magnesium sulfate (component C), wherein the total content of the components B and C is 1 to 100 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the resin, and the weight ratio of the component B to the component C is 0.1 to 0.9:0.9 to 0.1. |
US09447263B2 |
Rubber mixtures containing short-chain alkyl esters of glycerin
The invention relates to rubber mixtures comprising at least in each case one nonpolar rubber, carbon black, and short-chain alkyl esters of glycerol, production of these, use, and the vulcanizates thus obtainable. |
US09447262B2 |
Rubber composition containing blocked mercaptosilanes and articles made therefrom
A particulate-filled rubber composition contains at least one silane-reactive particulate filler and a mixture of at least one blocked mercaptosilane coupling agent possessing two thioacyl groups and at least one blocked mercaptosilane possessing a single thioacyl group. |
US09447259B2 |
Composite materials formed by shear mixing of carbon nanostructures and related methods
Carbon nanostructures free of an adhered growth substrate can include a plurality of carbon nanotubes that are branched, crosslinked, and share common walls with one another. Under applied shear, crosslinks between the carbon nanotubes in carbon nanostructures can break to form fractured carbon nanotubes that are branched and share common walls. Methods for making polymer composites from carbon nanostructures can include combining a polymer matrix and a plurality of carbon nanostructures that are free of an adhered growth substrate, and dispersing the carbon nanostructures in the polymer matrix under applied shear. The applied shear breaks crosslinks between the carbon nanotubes to form a plurality of fractured carbon nanotubes that are dispersed as individuals in the polymer matrix. Polymer composites can include a polymer matrix and a plurality of fractured carbon nanotubes dispersed as individuals in the polymer matrix. |