| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09481575B2 |
Method for producing electrolyzed water
This invention relates to a method for producing electrolyzed water. Firstly, HCl is injected into an area for electrolysis provided with a negative and positive electrode plate respectively on its two inner sides and several small-sized electrolyzers. Then water is led into an area for water transport communicating with an electrolytic cell compartment by a retaining valve. Herein, electrolytic reaction occurs in the area for electrolysis. During such process, when the positive and negative electrode plates are electrified, HCl is decomposed to chlorine and hydrogen bubbles, which float up and store into a gas buffer area. For the pressure difference between the electrolytic cell compartment and the cell compartment for water transport, the chlorine and hydrogen in the gas buffer area enter the cell compartment for water transport through the retaining valve and form HClO with high stable concentration, high production efficiency and environmental friendly functions of sterilization and disinfection. |
| US09481573B2 |
Steam reformer based hydrogen plant scheme for enhanced carbon dioxide recovery
A novel steam reformer unit design, a novel hydrogen PSA unit design, a novel hydrogen/nitrogen enrichment unit design, and novel processing scheme application are presented. |
| US09481572B2 |
Optical electronic device and method of fabrication
An optical electronic device and method that forms cavities through an interposer wafer after bonding the interposer wafer to a window wafer. The cavities are etched into the bonded interposer/window wafer pair using the anti-reflective coating of the window wafer as an etch stop. After formation of the cavities, the bonded interposer/window wafer pair is bonded peripherally of die areas to the MEMS device wafer, with die area micromechanical elements sealed within respectively corresponding ones of the cavities. |
| US09481568B2 |
Integration of active devices with passive components and MEMS devices
Integration of active devices with passive components and MEMS devices is disclosed. An integrated semiconductor structure includes an active device having a device top electrode connected to a conductive jumper by a device-side via/interconnect metal stack. The integrated semiconductor structure also includes a passive component having a component bottom plate connected to the conductive jumper by a component-side via/interconnect metal stack. The component bottom plate is situated at an intermediate metal level higher than the device top electrode, and the conductive jumper is situated at a connecting metal level higher than the component bottom plate. The conductive jumper reduces undesirable charge flow into the active device during fabrication of the passive component. The passive component can be, for example, a MEMS device. |
| US09481567B2 |
MEMS structure, cap substrate and method of fabricating the same
A micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) structure is provided, which includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a MEMS device and a hydrophobic semiconductor layer. The first substrate has a first portion. The second substrate is substantially parallel to the first substrate and has a second portion substantially aligned with the first portion. The MEMS device is between the first portion and the second portion. The hydrophobic semiconductor layer is made of germanium (Ge), silicon (Si) or a combination thereof on the first portion, the second portion or the first portion and the second portion and faces toward the MEMS device. A cap substrate for a MEMS device and a method of fabricating the same are also provided. |
| US09481565B2 |
Encapsulated component comprising a MEMS component and method for the production thereof
A component comprising a carrier, a chip component and a MEMS component is proposed, wherein the mechanically sensitive MEMS component is mounted below a half-shell on the carrier. The component is encapsulated with a molding compound in a transfer molding process. |
| US09481563B2 |
Semiconductor device having a micro-mechanical structure
According to an embodiment of a semiconductor device, the semiconductor device includes a micro-mechanical structure and a semiconductor material arranged over the micro-mechanical structure. A side surface of the semiconductor material includes a first region and a second region. The first region has an undulation, and the second region is a peripheral region of the side surface and decreases towards the micro-mechanical structure. |
| US09481561B2 |
Dispensing device for a liquid filling machine
Described is a dispensing device for a liquid product filling machine comprising a plurality of the dispensing devices. Each dispensing device comprises a dispensing conduit having a product outlet opening, a shutter for the outlet opening, an actuating unit adapted to move the shutter from a closed position to an open position of the outlet opening and vice versa, a flexible membrane which separates the dispensing conduit from the actuating unit, a product presence detector, indicating when the flexible membrane is broken and connected to a control unit which each dispensing device is equipped with in such a way as to stop dispensing the product from the dispensing device whose flexible membrane is broken. |
| US09481559B2 |
Draft beer supply chain system and method
A device for measuring a keg for beer is disclosed. The keg has a tap opening at its top and a recessed cavity at its bottom. The recess is defined in part by an inside wall around the bottom of the keg. The measuring device disclosed may have an mountable/unmountable housing adapted to be installed to the keg by being mounted on the bottom of the keg at least in part in the recessed cavity. The measuring device disclosed may have a weight sensor on the housing for sensing the weight of the keg. |
| US09481558B2 |
Funnel apparatus for filling of liquids
The present invention relates to a funnel apparatus for filling of liquids, which comprises a funnel, a sealing means, a locking means, and a soft tube. The funnel apparatus has a fluid receiving member and a tubular member provided for carrying fluid. The latter has a passageway that has a top end portion installed with a handle, and a bottom end portion equipped with a stopper provided for blocking movement of the tubular member. The plunger rod has recessed portions patterned in a longitudinal orientation across its surface. The locking means has an assembly bore and a rim connected with a series of spokes; the assembly bore is fixedly disposed at an end of the receiving member so the plunger rod stretches over the assembly bore and can move axially thereby. The soft tube is inserted into the recessed portions on the plunger rod for providing an air exchange functionality. |
| US09481553B2 |
System and method for controlling at least two automated non-passing rail mounted gantry cranes
A system or method, for controlling at least two automated non-passing rail mounted gantry cranes, has, for each crane, a crane control unit for ensuring execution of at least one work order received by the respective crane from an external scheduling system, and may have a rescheduling unit which performs a rescheduling of the at least one work order based on an expected trajectory along the rail determined for each work order. The rescheduling can be achieved by splitting at least one of the work orders into at least two new work orders and by re-sequencing and re-allocating resulting work orders to reduce the number or duration of situations, where the expected trajectory of one crane blocks the expected trajectory of another crane and/or to reduce a workload imbalance between the cranes. The rescheduling unit operates in parallel with the crane control units, and dynamically updates these original work orders. |
| US09481550B2 |
System having multiple cabs in an elevator shaft
An elevator system which utilizes four or more independently moving cabs in each elevator shaft. The lower cabs are connected to four spatially separated counterweights at four different counterweight connection points. The connection points are horizontally shifted on different cabs in order to prevent interference between cables, pulleys and counterweights. The top cab may be connected to one or two counterweights by connection points on the roof of the cab. The cabs are mounted on two tracks, each track on one side of the elevator shaft. The system includes a motor attached to each of the cabs by lift cables to facilitate the independent movement of all cabs. Existing buildings can be retrofit for compatibility with the present invention. |
| US09481539B2 |
Paper sheet handling device
A paper sheet handling device that facilitates removal of paper sheets blocked on a conveying path. The device includes a safe casing internally provided with a paper sheet storage box; a processing unit capable of being pulled out from, or stowed in, a main device; a conveying section coupled to the processing unit, and that forms a conveying path; a handover section coupled to a top plate of the safe casing to hand over the sheets between the storage box and the conveying path; and a positioning section that positions for connecting the handover section and the conveying path together when the processing unit is being stowed in the main device. |
| US09481538B2 |
Paper discharge device
A paper discharge device including discharge rollers that discharge a paper sheet and a paper discharge tray on which discharged paper sheets are stacked further includes a control unit that controls the discharge angle of a paper sheet according to at least the stacked amount of paper sheets that are stacked on the paper discharge tray so that the position at which the front end of a paper sheet to be discharged begins to come into contact with the stacked paper sheets on the paper discharge tray is within a specified range from the front end of the stacked paper sheets. |
| US09481537B2 |
Arrangement for driving a flat substrate in a packaging production machine
An arrangement (11) for driving a flat substrate along a longitudinal direction, the arrangement being mounted in a packaging production machine. The substrate has a surface that has sustained at least one modification. The arrangement includes a device (9) for driving the substrate along the longitudinal direction, and a device for bearing the substrate against the driving device (9), and having at least one bearing zone (23) facing toward the driving device (9). The substrate is engaged and driven between the driving device (9) and the bearing device. The bearing zone (23) has a transverse dimension (D) and position (Y), chosen as a function of a transverse dimension and a position of the modification on the substrate, so as to prevent damaging the modification between the driving device (9) and the bearing device. |
| US09481536B2 |
Cylindrical sleeve
An assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a cylindrical sleeve and a length of material that is wound upon itself defining a wound roll. The cylindrical sleeve includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the cylindrical sleeve defines a passage extending through the cylindrical sleeve. The length of material includes an inner surface and an outer surface. A portion of the inner surface of the length of material forms a passage extending through the wound roll. The outer surface of the cylindrical sleeve is secured to the portion of the inner surface of the length of material that forms the passage extending through the wound roll. At least a portion of the inner surface of the cylindrical sleeve is defined by a Sheffield Smoothness that is less than 350. A method is also disclosed. |
| US09481531B2 |
Monitoring vehicle restraints over a continuous range of positions
Example vehicle restraint apparatus and methods of operating the same are disclosed herein. An example vehicle restraint includes a main body proximate a dock, a vehicle restraint drive unit, and a barrier coupled to the vehicle restraint drive unit and the main body. The barrier is movable relative to the main body between an extended position, a retracted position, and a plurality of intermediate positions between the extended position and the retracted position. A sensor provides a plurality of position feedback signals corresponding to a plurality of sensed positions of the barrier when the barrier moves along the plurality of intermediate positions. A controller receives the plurality of position feedback signals, performs a plurality of comparisons of the plurality of position feedback signals with a stored reference, and generates an output signal based on the compared value. |
| US09481529B2 |
Tilt-tray conveying carriage and tilt-tray sorting installation
A tilt-tray sorting installation for articles and a tilt-tray conveying carriage for use in a tilt-tray sorting installation. The tilt-tray conveying carriage has a basic carriage, which is configured for displacement in the tilt-tray sorting installation, a carrying tray, which can be pivoted about a tilting axis relative to the basic carriage, and a tilting drive. A drive device of the tilting drive is fixed in relation to the basic carriage. A traction device is operatively connected to the drive device and the carrying tray. In order to render the devices suitable for heavy articles, the tilt-tray conveying carriage is provided with a traction-device guide which is arranged in a rotatably fixed manner on the carrying tray, against which the traction device abuts, at least in part, and which deflects the traction device. |
| US09481527B2 |
Method and device for supplying pouring elements arranged and aligned at a distance from each other and comprising a flange
A method and a device for supplying pouring elements arranged and aligned at a distance from each other and comprising a flange, wherein the pouring elements are each supplied directly strung together and are then separated. Acceleration of the first pouring element respectively may occur along a segment of a circle after brief stoppage of the following pouring element and transfer of the separated pouring elements to a further conveying path. |
| US09481522B2 |
Conveyors and transmission belts
A belt for a conveyor comprises at least one elongate strip (1) and at least one slat (2) which forms a part of a conveyor surface upon which a load to be transported can be located. The slat is secured to the strip by a connector (7), optionally through a sliding dovetail joint, the connector comprising the tail part (5) of the joint and the underside of the slat being provided with a groove defining a socket part (3) of the sliding dovetail joint. The connector may pass through a hole (6) in the strip, or may embrace a relatively narrow section (523) of the strip. In an alternative, a belt for a conveyor comprises a plurality of interconnected slats which may support material to be transported and forming a conveyor surface, in which pairs of adjacent slats of the belt are connected together by means of co-operating slots and tabs. |
| US09481520B2 |
Disposable chute trays
A foldable and disposable chute trough and base blanks wherein said base can be folded to provide an angled support for said trough and wherein said trough detachably secures to said base at a single pivot point and can thus be replaced once soiled. |
| US09481518B2 |
Order fulfillment system and method
An order fulfillment system and method uses a robotic arm having an end effector for grasping an object. An arcuate structure is moveable within reach of the robotic arm. A conveyor system brings inventory to the arcuate structure and takes a container that holds picked inventory away from the arcuate structure. A control system fulfills an order by directing the conveyor system to bring inventory to the arcuate structure, positioning the inventory on the arcuate structure relative to the robotic arm, determining a selected inventory item for an order, commanding the robotic arm to move the selected inventory item from a pick location of the selected inventory item to a container location for the order, and directing the conveyor system to take the container from the arcuate structure. |
| US09481517B2 |
Multiposition lift
An automated storage and retrieval system includes a first independently operable section having a first number of predetermined storage and retrieval transactions, and a second independently operable section in communication with the first independently operable section and having a second number of predetermined storage and retrieval transactions. The first and second independently operable sections are configured to provide a respective number of predetermined storage and retrieval transactions so that the first number of predetermined storage and retrieval transactions substantially matches the second number of predetermined storage and retrieval transactions. |
| US09481513B2 |
Waste container
The present invention is generally applicable to a container. More specifically, the invention is applicable to a waste container for the collection, storage and transport of waste and refuse material. The waste containers of the present invention are particularly useful for the collection, storage and transporting of organic waste material. |
| US09481509B2 |
Device and method for handling containers and container comprising said device
A device comprising a hook and magnet. The hook is configured to move between a folded position, such that the space below the magnet is free, and a deployed position, such that the hook is below the magnet. The magnet is activated to attract a ferromagnetic piece connected to a support handle of a container. |
| US09481505B2 |
Aerosol sodium chloride mixture agent with trigger sprayer
An Aerosol Sodium Chloride Mixture Agent with Trigger Sprayer that can be easily held in one hand. The Sodium Chloride Mixture Agent is in a bag inside a can and under pressure from air nitrogen, 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, Difluoroethane, Petroleum Hydrocarbon, CO2, HFC1234ze, individually or mixture thereof and can only be initially opened and released by pulling the tab of the trigger sprayer. The Trigger Assembly cannot be sprayed until the tab is pulled. The Can is cylindrical canister housing and has a Dip Tube that goes to the bag of the can to the Sodium Chloride Mixture Agent. There is Propellant composed of air nitrogen, 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, Difluoroethane, Petroleum Hydrocarbon, CO2, HFC1234ze, individually or mixture thereof in the can that pushes on the bag holding the Sodium Chloride Mixture Agent up through the Dip Tube to the Valve Operative and then to the Actuator Stem up through the Trigger SprayerInitially pulling the tab of the Trigger Assembly allows the Trigger to be pressed and be moved. Once the Tab is pulled it does not ever need to be pulled again for future uses and allows the Trigger Pivoting Member of the Trigger Assembly to press down on the Actuator Stem which then exerts pressure on the Valve Operative which allows the Propellant in the Can to exert pressure on the bag and force the Sodium Chloride Mixture Agent in the bag through the Dip Tube up the Valve Operative through the Chamber Hole into the Direction Chamber with pressure up through the Nozzle out the Opening toward the area to be treated. The user then holds down the trigger and sprays the area to be treated with the Sodium Chloride Mixture Agent which comes out as a mist in a spray cone. |
| US09481501B2 |
Method of forming a carton with article protection flap
A method of forming a carton. The method comprises obtaining a blank comprising a plurality of panels comprising a bottom panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel, at least two first end flaps, at least two second end flap, and at least one article protection flap foldably connected to the bottom panel. The method comprises positioning the plurality of panels to form an interior space of the carton, loading a plurality of beverage bottles into the interior space, closing a first end of the carton, closing a second end of the carton, and tightening the carton by folding the at least one article protection flap into the interior space after the loading of the plurality of beverage bottles. |
| US09481496B2 |
Child resistant container
The object of the present invention is to provide a child resistant container for nicotine products. The container comprises latching elements (8, 25) adapted to interlock with cooperating latching elements (9, 27) when said lid (3) is pushed onto a said base (2) to retain said lid (3) to said base (2). The latching elements (8, 25) are further adapted to disengage from said cooperating latching elements (9, 27) when a simultaneous force is exerted on all releasable latching arrangements (6, 7, 12, 13) by two hands of a user or the like. |
| US09481493B2 |
Interlock-able fingered closure clips
A multi-closure strip of clips with one or more openings to hold the neck of a bag, which include a male and a female interlocking portion to hold the clips together in a series. Each clip includes a set of male and female slots at a first edge, and a set of male and female slots at a second edge. Neighboring clips can interlock or mate-ably attach to the respective sets of slots and fingers without the need for adhesive, and without fracture of the clip material. The clips can be made of a resilient plastic or biodegradable material, or any recyclable products. |
| US09481492B2 |
Interlock-able closure clips
A multi-closure strip of clips with one or more openings to hold the neck of a bag, which include a male and a female interlocking portion to hold the clips together in a series. Each clip includes a female pocket at a first edge, and a male tab at a second edge. Neighboring clips can interlock or mate-ably attach to the respective pockets and tabs without the need for adhesive, and without fracture of the clip material. Instead of a neighboring clip, a tag or label with a mating pocket or tab can be mate-ably attached to the clip. The clips can be made of a resilient plastic or biodegradable material, or any recyclable products. |
| US09481491B1 |
Containing device
A containing device includes a first container, a second container and a lid. The first container is provided for containing a powder or particulate substance and includes a first leading-out opening and a second leading-out opening. The lid is combined to an upper end or a lower end of the first container upper end or lower end for sealing and resisting moisture of the content of the first container. The second container is movably pivoted in the first container and includes a fixed number of receiving grooves, and the receiving groove has a leading-in opening, a release outlet and a separating board. When the leading-in opening of the second container is displaced to a position corresponsive to the first leading-out opening of the first container, the release outlet is sealed, so that a fixed quantity of content of the first container enters into the second container. When the release outlet is displaced to a position corresponsive to the second leading-out opening of the first container, the first leading-out opening of the first container is sealed by the separating board, so that a fixed quantity of the content of the second container is discharged smoothly to provide a simple, easy, convenient and quick application. |
| US09481488B2 |
Pallet assembly and a lid apparatus for the pallet assembly
A pallet assembly and a lid apparatus for the pallet assembly include a first lid segment and a second lid segment selectively cooperating with each other. The lid segments each include an outer edge and an inner edge spaced in an opposing relationship. The inner edges of the lid segments are configured to face each other. The first lid segment includes a first locking feature disposed proximal to the inner edge of the first lid segment and the second lid segment includes a second locking feature disposed proximal to the inner edge of the second lid segment. The lid segments are movable between an engaged position in which the locking features engage each other to secure the lid segments together to define a complete lid, and a disengaged position in which the locking features disengage from each other to separate the lid segments. |
| US09481487B2 |
Reinforced multi-piece bliss box
The present application provides a multi-piece box. The multi-piece box may include a body blank with a number of body panels and a number of second blanks with a second blank panel. The second blanks may be attached to the body blank. One or more of the body panels may include a first dimension along a first direction, the second blanks may include a second dimension along the first direction, and the second dimension may be greater than the first dimension such that the second blank panels may create a protruding end with respect to the one or more body panels. |
| US09481486B2 |
Container with secure audible closure
A re-closeable folded container includes a hexahedral base including a front panel and a rear panel, a cover pivotally connected with an upper edge of a rear panel for movement between an open position and a closed position, and a locking panel hingedly connected with an upper edge of the front panel. The front panel includes a tear-away portion defined by a score line. The locking panel includes a first tab, a second tab, and a tear-away portion defined by score lines. The tear-away portion of the locking panel is fixedly attached to both the front portion of the cover and the tear-away portion of the front panel such that initial movement of the cover from the closed position toward the open position causes the locking panel and the front panel to tear along the score lines and causes both tear-away portions to pivotally move with the cover. |
| US09481484B2 |
Two-component hybrid labeling system for use in repeat labeling
A reusable, liner-free labeling system, which allows labels to be wound without the use of a release liner, is described herein. The absence of a liner reduces inventory requirements, roll-changeover time, cost of production, and waste. Additionally, the labeling system described herein provides labels that remove cleanly, which reduces the time required to remove the label and eliminates the necessity of cleaning the substrate after removal. The labeling system provides labels that can be easily reused and reapplied, which can reduce time and costs associated with user labeling error. The labeling system is compatible with labels of all currently available facesheets, regardless of composition or physical characteristics, and allows for large quantity batch printing. The implementation of the labeling system does not require any changes to the pre-existing label printing infrastructure. |
| US09481480B2 |
Packaging machine with sealing station for gas flushing a package
The invention relates to a packaging machine including a sealing station which is used for sealing a package comprising a trough and a cover film, and which has at least two sides, the sealing station including a sealing tool provided with at least one evacuation aperture for discharging the atmosphere and at least one gas flushing aperture for supplying a gas volume flow. |
| US09481477B2 |
Fluid manifold system with rotatable port assembly
A fluid manifold system includes a manifold port assembly having a housing with an inlet port and a plurality of outlet ports formed thereon and a carousel having a plurality of spaced apart fluid paths that extend therethrough from a first end to an opposing second end. The carousel is rotatably coupled with the housing so that when the first end of each fluid path is aligned with the inlet port on the housing, the second end of each fluid path is aligned with a corresponding different one of the plurality of outlet ports. A container is fluid coupled to each outlet port by a fluid line. The inlet port can be selectively coupled with a fluid source while a motor can control rotation of the carousel relative to the housing. |
| US09481476B2 |
Space object disposal device and space object disposal method
Disclosed are a space object disposal device and a space object disposal method using a rotation motion. The device for disposing a space object includes: a disposal orbit calculation unit configured to calculate a disposal orbit of a space object; an escape velocity calculation unit configured to calculate an escape velocity at which the space object moves along the disposal orbit; and a rotation driving unit configured to be connected the space object, rotate the space object on a predetermined rotation orbit so as to reach the escape velocity, and separate the space object at a point of contact of the predetermined rotation orbit and the disposal orbit when the space object rotates at the escape velocity. |
| US09481474B2 |
Auxiliary power unit with integrated fire detection system
An Auxiliary Power Unit (“APU”) for an aircraft with reduced weight, but which at the same time meets all fire-related airworthiness standards. The APU comprises a metallic housing having mounts for attaching the housing to an external structure. The APU further comprises at least one temperature sensor suitable for detecting temperature under fire conditions. The temperature sensor is coupled with the mounts for sensing temperature at the housing. |
| US09481472B2 |
Energy protection device for an aircraft
Energy protection device for an aircraft.The device (1) comprises units (12, 14, 15) for automatically deactivating an energy protection function, if a return of the aircraft to an operational flight domain is detected after the activation of this protection function, and for automatically managing an autothrust (2), if at least one of the following conditions is satisfied: a relaxing of a control member is detected, and the angle of attack of the aircraft is below a predetermined threshold. |
| US09481471B2 |
Autonomous propulsion apparatus and methods
Autonomous propulsion apparatus and methods are disclosed. An example autonomous propulsion unit includes a flight controller capable of executing flight control instructions stored in a memory of the autonomous propulsion unit; and a propulsor to generate propulsion in accordance with the instructions for a payload carrier to which the autonomous propulsion unit is coupled, wherein the flight controller is to provide flight control for the propulsor in an absence of flight control instructions from the payload carrier. |
| US09481469B2 |
Valve for controlling the internal pressure in a cabin of an aircraft
The invention relates to a valve for controlling the internal pressure in a cabin of an aircraft. First and second flaps supported in a frame control a fluid flow between the environment and the cabin through an opening of the valve. The first flap is supported at a distance from a front edge of the frame and the second flap is supported on a rear edge of the frame. A closing device closes an outflow opening (56) in an inflow position of the flaps, which outflow opening is bounded by the flaps. The closing device is pivotably supported on one of the flaps, and interacts with the locking device in such a way that the closing device closes the outflow opening in the event of a pivoting motion of the flaps. |
| US09481459B2 |
Apparatus and method employing autonomous vehicles to reduce risk
Apparatus and method for employing autonomous air vehicles to perform high risk observation, interaction, and interrogation with individuals. Invention comprises an autonomously controlled air vehicle with mounting and transporting means being attachable to automobiles and other first responder vehicle types. Mounting and transporting means serves also as a base station for commanding autonomous air vehicle and relaying communications to and from autonomous air vehicle to and from remote data base sources. Autonomously controlled air vehicle is equipped with a variety of sensors which air in observation and detection of suspects, their vehicles and possessions therein, and any documentation produced during the interrogation. |
| US09481454B2 |
Linking damper system for a rotorcraft landing gear
A linking system for attaching a cross tube to a skid of a landing gear of a rotorcraft, the linking system comprising a hinge element, means for connecting the hinge element to the cross tube and means for connecting the hinge element to the skid, the hinge element in turn comprising a cross tube-sided part and a skid-sided part able to rotate with respect to one another, a torsion bar spring and a rotary damper element suitable for dissipating a ground resonance excitation energy when the rotation of the cross tube-sided part with respect to the skid-sided part occurs. |
| US09481453B2 |
Shrinking system for landing gear
Landing gear actuator systems and methods are disclosed. A landing gear actuator system may have an actuator body, an operating apparatus, a gas pressure adjustment apparatus, and a hydraulic fluid adjustment apparatus. The gas pressure adjustment apparatus may adjust at least one gas pressure in response to the operating apparatus. The hydraulic fluid adjustment apparatus may adjust at least one hydraulic fluid volume in response to the operating apparatus. The gas pressure and the hydraulic fluid volume may adjusted inversely. An isolation valve may be installed between the gas pressure adjustment apparatus and a strut gas chamber of a landing gear. In this manner, a landing gear strut may be shrunk without inducing high pressure in the strut, and stowed for flight, and a landing gear strut may be unshrunk and isolated by the valve to protect the actuator from high pressure and reaction forces during landing. |
| US09481450B2 |
Active strut apparatus for use with aircraft and related methods
Active strut apparatus for use with aircraft and related methods are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a first strut having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end of the first strut is operatively coupled to a fuselage of an aircraft and the second end of the first strut is operatively coupled to a wing of the aircraft, and a first actuator is operatively coupled to the first strut to change an effective length of the first strut. |
| US09481447B2 |
Aircraft wing with slotted high lift system
An aircraft wing includes a leading element; a trailing element positioned behind the leading element relative to a direction of movement of the aircraft and an actuation system for moving one of the elements between a retracted position and an extended position in which there is an air gap between a lower surface of the leading element and a surface of the trailing element. Two or more elongate stiffening ridges extend downwards from the lower surface of the leading element, and each adjacent pair of ridges is separated by a channel. The leading element is shaped to provide an improved air gap, preferably one which is parallel or convergent in all positions. Typically the volume of at least one of the ridges is less than the 50% of the volume of a channel defined by that ridge. |
| US09481444B2 |
Passive load alleviation for aerodynamic lift structures
An aerodynamic lift structure comprises unbalanced composite skin that couples twist and bending. |
| US09481439B1 |
Stern drives having vibration isolation
A stern drive is for a marine vessel. The stern drive comprises a gimbal housing that is configured for connection to the marine vessel, a gimbal ring that is steerable with respect to the gimbal housing about a vertical steering axis, a driveshaft housing that is connected to the gimbal ring, and a trim actuator that is configured to trim the driveshaft housing about a horizontal trim axis. The trim actuator has a first end that is pivotably connected to the gimbal ring at a horizontal first pivot axis and a second end that is pivotably connected to the driveshaft housing at a horizontal second pivot axis. A resilient driveshaft housing vibration isolator is located along the second pivot axis. The resilient vibration isolator isolates vibration forces on the driveshaft housing. A resilient gimbal ring vibration isolator is located along the trim axis. The gimbal ring vibration isolator isolates vibration forces on the gimbal ring. |
| US09481438B1 |
Outboard motor cowl assembly using shape memory alloy to actuate seal and/or latch
A cowl assembly for an outboard motor includes first and second cowl members. A fastening assembly includes a latch coupled to one of the cowl members, and a retaining mechanism coupled to the other of the cowl members. The latch and the retaining mechanism engage one another to fasten the first and second cowl members together. A seal is configured to form a fluid tight joint between the cowl members. A shape memory alloy wire is coupled to at least one of the latch and the seal. A switch is configured to selectively provide electrical current to the shape memory alloy wire to activate the shape memory alloy wire. Activation of the shape memory alloy wire causes at least one of disengagement of the latch from the retaining mechanism and disengagement of the seal from one of the first and second cowl members, enabling separation of the cowl members. |
| US09481432B2 |
Boat sail comprising shape memory material elements, apparatus and method for its operation
Sails for sailboat wind propulsion comprising shape memory systems containing shape memory elements are described. The shape memory systems are arranged in correspondence to the sail battens, extending along them and operably connected to the sail opposite faces or directly to the battens so as to face the opposite faces of the sail. A control apparatus and method of said sails is also described. |
| US09481430B2 |
Natural gas transport vessel
A lightweight transport vessel transports compressed natural gas underwater without needing to liquefy the gas for transport. |
| US09481428B2 |
Dynamometric cycle pedal
A bicycle pedal including a tube, assembled to freely rotate around an axis, and a pedal body including at least one first surface on which a cyclist is capable of exerting an effort, the pedal body being connected to the central tube by at least one connecting member including a first portion interposed between the tube and the first surface and fitted with at least one deformation gauge. |
| US09481425B2 |
Bicycle suspension
A bicycle suspension comprises a cylinder element, a piston element, and a stroke adjustment structure. The cylinder element includes an internal space extending in an axial direction of the cylinder element. The piston element is provided in the internal space to define a first air chamber and a second air chamber in the cylinder element. The second air chamber is opposite to the first air chamber with respect to the piston element. The stroke adjustment structure is configured to adjust a stroke of the bicycle suspension and includes an axially movable member configured to initiate a stroke adjustment of the bicycle suspension. The axially movable member is configured to be entirely disposed in the first air chamber. |
| US09481424B2 |
Compact scroll fan assembly
A radial fan assembly for use in a powered air purifying respirator includes at least an impeller, a printed circuit board and a scroll casing. The scroll casing has a first and a second scroll casing element. The second scroll casing element includes at least a portion of the printed circuit board. When the radial fan assembly is used in a powered air purifying respirators, the respirator may also include components such as a filter assembly. |
| US09481422B2 |
Motorcycle
A motorcycle including a rear fender (40) having a plurality of attachment parts (51, 53) provided on a rear surface (43). The attachment parts (51, 53) are provided in left-right pairs. When attaching a plate member to the rear fender (40), the plate member is fastened to the rear fender (40) by passing a fastening member through a portion of the attachment parts (51, 53). |
| US09481418B2 |
Mounting frame for a vehicle door
A mounting jig for a vehicle door, the jig includes a first support having means for adjustably fastening it to a vehicle body in the vicinity of the door opening; a second support having fastening means for fastening to the vehicle door; connection arms for interconnecting the first and second supports, which arms are hinged to each of said supports, and their trace, in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the door opening, co-operates with the trace, in the same plane, of said supports, to form a deformable quadrilateral; a weight arm, mounted to move at least in translation along a vertical axis in guide means carried by the stationary support, between a low first position and at least one second position that is higher than said low position; at least one operating member for operating an indexing member for indexing the position of the second support relative to the first support, the operating member being connected to the weight shaft; and a raising lever, for acting against the effect of gravity, to raise the weight shaft from the first position towards the second position. |
| US09481416B2 |
Auxiliary axle and suspension assembly
A vehicle suspension assembly includes providing an axle assembly having a first end including a first mounting structure and a second end, providing a first bearing block and a second bearing block, forming a first aperture in the first bearing block and a second aperture in the second bearing block, attaching the first and second bearing blocks to the first mounting structure subsequent to forming the first and second apertures; and providing a first spindle assembly coupled to the first mounting structure by a first spherical bearing located within the first aperture and a second spherical bearing located within the second aperture, wherein a first kingpin assembly extends through the first and second spherical bearings, thereby coupling the first spindle with the first mounting structure. |
| US09481414B1 |
Spherical tractor operating mobile platform
A spherical tractor operating mobile platform (STOMP) is provided for internally propelling and steering along an external surface. The STOMP includes a spherical shell having interior and exterior surfaces, an internal chassis containing an electrical power supply and a propulsion controller; a tractor drive system and an overhead wheel assembly. The tractor drive system provides propulsion and steering of the shell along the surface. The drive system includes a frame that connects to the chassis from below and contains a motor unit. The frame includes port and starboard sides that support respective wheel sets surrounded by corresponding continuous tracks. These tracks engage the shell's interior surface. Each wheel set includes a drive wheel, an idler wheel and a tension wheel for engaging a corresponding track. The overhead wheel assembly connects to the chassis from above to maintain the chassis and the drive system in compression with the shell. To propel the shell, the propulsion controller commands the motor unit to provide torque to both the port and starboard drive wheels. For steering the shell towards starboard, the motor provides torque to the port drive wheel. For steering the shell towards port, the motor provides torque to the starboard drive wheel. |
| US09481413B2 |
Drive track for a tracked vehicle
A drive track for a tracked vehicle has an endless belt having an inner surface and an outer surface, and a plurality of lugs projecting from at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface. At least some of the plurality of lugs each have at least one passage extending at least partially through the lug from an outer surface of the lug. A snowmobile provided with the drive track is also disclosed. |
| US09481410B2 |
Magnetically coupled accessory for a self-propelled device
A system comprising a self-propelled device and an accessory device. The self-propelled device includes a spherical housing, and a drive system provided within the spherical housing to cause the self-propelled device to roll. When the self-propelled device rolls, the self-propelled device and the accessory device magnetically interact to maintain the accessory device in contact with a top position of the spherical housing relative to an underlying surface on which the spherical housing is rolling on. |
| US09481407B2 |
Drag reduction system
A method of reducing drag on the underside and rear wheels of a commercial vehicle which is a drag reduction system including an airfoil designed to mount on the underside or slider assembly of a commercial vehicle that would reduce the air drag forces and improve fuel economy for the vehicle, a hydraulic system that operates to adjust the angle of the airfoil, and at least two sets of controllers, one controller that operates automatically in conjunction with the speed of the vehicle and a second controller that allows the operator to manually adjust the angle of the airfoil from within the driver's compartment. The purpose of the drag reduction system is to provide a more fuel efficient design for commercial vehicle applications, resulting in fuel cost savings for the vehicle operation. |
| US09481405B2 |
Surface flow enhancement device and method of using the same on a vehicle
A detachable surface flow enhancement device is provided, comprising: an aerodynamic structure configured to deflect moving air incident upon the aerodynamic structure; and an attaching element configured to attach the aerodynamic structure to a surface of a vehicle and to detach the aerodynamic structure from the surface of the vehicle without altering the surface of the vehicle. |
| US09481401B2 |
Adjustable and flexible damper structure for instrument clusters
Damping structure provides damping between a first component and a second component of an instrument cluster of a vehicle. The damping structure includes a resilient and flexible damper having a body with first and second opposing ends. The first end is closed and the second end is open to communicate with a generally cylindrical recess in the body. A holding member is coupled to and extends from the first component. The holding member includes a body having a recess therein. At least a portion of the body of the holding member is received in the recess of the damper, with the closed end of the damper covering the recess in the body of the holding member so as to trap air therein. When the first component is coupled to the second component, the closed end of the damper engages the second component so that the damper is under compression loading. |
| US09481400B2 |
Body structure for a floor of a motor vehicle body
The floor of a vehicle has two planar extruded profiles, located one on top of the other and having opposing T-shaped ribs rotated through 90 degrees with respect to one another. T-shaped recesses are introduced into ribs of one profile, and crosspieces on T-shaped ribs of the opposite extruded profile engaging in an interlocking manner. The extruded profiles are pushed into one another for connection, and a foam is introduced beforehand into the cavities between the ribs. The foam is foamed up so that the two extruded profiles are connected in an adhesively bonded manner. |
| US09481392B2 |
Electric power steering device
An electric power steering device includes a basic return command value calculation unit configured to calculate a basic return command value in a direction returning the steering wheel to a neutral position, on the basis of detection results of a steering angle detector detecting a steering angle of the steering wheel, a first correction gain calculation unit configured to calculate a first correction gain correcting the basic return command value, on the basis of detection results of a vehicle speed detector detecting vehicle speed, and a second correction gain calculation unit configured to calculate a second correction gain correcting the basic return command value, on the basis of a change amount of the steering torque detected by the torque sensor. The basic return command value is corrected by the first and second correction gains so as to calculate a return command value. The return command value is added to the assist command value so as to drive the electric motor. |
| US09481390B2 |
Collapsible steering column assembly
A collapsing steering column assembly for an automotive vehicle, comprising an inner column tube, a steering shaft, a tilt bracket, and a steering wheel adjustment subassembly. During a secondary impact, at least a portion of the steering wheel adjustment subassembly is adapted to detach relative to the tilt bracket by way of at least one breakaway structure and translate (e.g., at least partially longitudinally) during the impact, such as a secondary impact, for moving away from a vehicle operator. |
| US09481388B2 |
Luggage sliders
The luggage sliders include various embodiments for permanent or removable installation upon the underside of a roll-around suitcase, wheeled cart, or similar article to facilitate movement of the article up a flight of stairs or other stepped inclined surface. Some of the sliders are pivotally extendible and retractable. Others are telescopically extendible and retractable. Still others are pivotally attached to one edge of the article, and pivotally fold against a surface of the article for storage. Still others may be adjustably clamped about the base of the article. Still others are pivotally attached about a wheel axle to rotate and lie beneath the wheel for operation. Still others may be removably attached directly to the wheels of the luggage, cart, or other wheeled article. Still others are pivotally attached to a point on the luggage and telescopically extend to project below the wheel for use. |
| US09481385B2 |
Systems and methods for predictive maintenance of crossings
A method for predicting failure of a crossing warning system is disclosed. The method includes monitoring an electrical characteristic of a first route when an electric current is injected into the first route. The first route has a crossing intersection with a second route and a crossing signal at the crossing intersection. The electrical characteristic is monitored to detect when a vehicle is approaching the crossing intersection on the first route and to determine when to activate the crossing signal at the crossing intersection. The method also includes identifying one or more changes in the electrical characteristic of the first route, and, based on the one or more changes that are identified, predicting a failure mode of the first route that interferes with detection of the vehicle approaching the crossing intersection. |
| US09481383B2 |
Electronic condition detection system and method for railcars
A railcar has an on-board system for weighing a load of the railcar. A center plate load cell is attached to the bottom of the railcar body and supports the first end of the railcar body on a truck assembly via the center bowl of the truck assembly. A pair of side bearing load cells are mounted to the bottom of the railcar body so as to flank the center plate load cell. A pair of side bearings are positioned on the top surface of the truck assembly bolster in alignment with the pair of side bearing load cells. Circuitry sums signals from the center plate load cell and the pair of side bearing load cells to provide a summed output corresponding to a weight of the railcar load. The summed output is conditioned and transmitted via a satellite and/or cable system to a remote receiving station. |
| US09481380B2 |
Coupler knuckle
An improved coupler knuckle with an improved interior configuration for handling forces imparted on the knuckle and transferring said imparted forces through the knuckle and improving handling of linear force loads and their transmission the interior having a force handling structure that includes spaced apart layers and cavities, with a cavity extending between the nose section and the tail section of the coupler knuckle. |
| US09481379B2 |
Railway axlebox assembly and railway axlebox including the same
A railway axlebox assembly including a bearing including an inner ring adapted to be mounted on a shaft with an axial preload and an outer ring adapted to be mounted in a housing, a backing ring delivering axial support of the inner ring on an inner end portion of the shaft is provided. The assembly includes a seal that is disposed between the backing ring and the inner end portion of the housing. The sealing includes an elastomeric sealing lip bearing with a frictional contact on a sealing surface provided on the backing ring. |
| US09481378B2 |
Light strip for a passenger compartment of a rail vehicle
A light strip, lighting fixture or lamp band for installation in an interior passenger compartment of a rail vehicle includes a plurality of elongate light covers that can be connected to each other in the longitudinal direction thereof to form the light strip. A double-walled intermediate cover is provided between at least two successive light covers in the longitudinal direction of the light strip. The inner wall of the light strip protrudes opposite the outer wall in the longitudinal direction of the light strip so that a gap resulting between the intermediate cover and the adjacent light cover is concealed. |
| US09481376B2 |
Emergency bearing mechanism
In a bearing unit of a cable sheave of a cableway system, the cable sheave is arranged on a shaft which is mounted in bearings in a bearing framework. An inner ring or an outer ring of at least a first bearing is connected to the shaft. The outer ring or the inner ring of the first bearing is connected to an inner ring or an outer ring of a second bearing and is mounted in the bearing framework via the second bearing. |
| US09481374B2 |
Method for a driver assistance application
A driver assistance system with improved fault tolerance and a method for the same are provided. An actuator control variable for a reduced driver assistance application with reduced functionality is a calculated in a second control unit in case of unavailability of an actuator control variable for the main driver assistance application with full functionality as determined by a first control unit. |
| US09481373B2 |
Behavior based driving record management and rehabilitation
The behavior-based driving record management program is designed to assist drivers that have received driving penalties or “demerit points” to improve their behavior and “rehabilitate” to recover their driving privileges. Telematics are used to monitor the driving behavior over time and provide feedback to the driver. The system can also be used to implement graduated licensing programs to ensure that only qualified young drivers are graduating from one level to another demonstrating actual driver behavior and driving experience while reducing fraud. |
| US09481370B2 |
Methods and system for operation of vehicle
A method of operating a vehicle. The vehicle includes an engine. The method including determining if the engine is to be operated at idle and determining a current mode of operation of the vehicle. The current mode of operation is any one of a plurality of modes of operation including at least a first mode and a second mode. The method includes, if the engine is to be operated at idle, operating the engine at a first idle speed if the current mode of operation of the vehicle is the first mode of operation; and operating the engine at a second idle speed if the current mode of operation of the vehicle is the second mode of operation. The first idle speed is greater than the second idle speed. |
| US09481365B2 |
Collision prevention control apparatus
According to one aspect of the disclosure, a collision prevention control apparatus is provided which includes an image sensor that detects an object near the vehicle; a radar sensor that detects the object near the vehicle; and a controller that, if only one of the sensors, among the image sensor and the radar sensor, detects the object, determines reliability of the other sensor, and changes, based on the determined reliability, a way of performing a collision prevention control for preventing a collision with the object detected by the one of the sensors. |
| US09481364B2 |
Drive assist device
A drive assist device includes an object detection unit that is configured to detect an object in front of a host vehicle, a curve detection unit that is configured to detect a curved path in front of the host vehicle, a collision determination unit that is configured to determine a collision between the host vehicle and the object, and in a case where the curved path is detected, makes it difficult to determine the object detected in the direction opposite to the curving direction as an obstacle compared to an object detected in the curving direction, and a collision determination unit that is configured to perform a collision avoidance assist on the host vehicle in a case where it is determined that the host vehicle and the obstacle may collide with each other. |
| US09481357B2 |
Hybrid powertrain with mechatronic actuator assembly and method of controlling the same
A powertrain includes an engine with a crankshaft rotating on a first axis, motor/generator unit (MGU), belted drive system, transmission, actuator assembly, and controller. An MGU rotor shaft rotates about a second axis. The belted drive assembly has a first pulley connected to the crankshaft, a second pulley selectively connected to the rotor shaft, and an endless rotatable drive element that connects the pulleys. The transmission is connected to the flywheel via an input clutch. The actuator assembly has a third axis parallel to the first and second axes, a linear actuator(s), pinion gears translatable along the third axis to selectively engage the first and second gear elements, and overrunning clutches to passively disengage the pinion gears from the first or second gear element. The controller transmits control signals to the MGU and linear actuators to command a control state via translation of the pinion gears. |
| US09481355B2 |
Driving device for hybrid vehicle
A driving device for hybrid vehicle, having an engine, a first motor capable of generating electric power by driving force of the engine, a second motor capable of supplying driving force to drive wheels, a first driving force transmission path for transmitting driving force of the engine to the drive wheels, a second driving force transmission path for transmitting driving force between the first motor and the engine, and a third driving force transmission path for transmitting driving force of the second motor to the drive wheels, includes a second damper capable of absorbing torque fluctuations in the second driving force transmission path and a third damper capable of absorbing torque fluctuations in the third driving force transmission path, in addition to a first damper capable of absorbing torque fluctuations in the first driving force transmission path. |
| US09481351B2 |
Hybrid vehicle and associated engine start and stop control method
A hybrid vehicle and method of control are disclosed wherein the vehicle is propelled solely by the motor in some operating modes and the internal combustion engine is set to run whenever a brake pedal is released in other operating modes. In some operating modes, the engine is controlled to simulate a vehicle with a discrete ratio transmission, wherein the engine speed is controlled in response to vehicle speed and a virtual gear number. The virtual gear number changes in response to driver activation of shift selectors. When the driver selects a high gear number, a revised algorithm is utilized which allows some motor only operation but starts the engine in response to specified increases in accelerator pedal position. |
| US09481350B2 |
ECP/triple valve transition plate
A transition plate connects an electronic manifold to a pipe mounting bracket of a railway brake system and includes a body having a manifold portion that defines a face configured to engage the manifold and a pipe bracket portion that defines a face configured to engage the pipe mounting bracket; ports defined in the manifold face that are configured to align and communicate with ports in the face of the manifold; ports defined in the pipe bracket face that are configured to align and communicate with ports in the face of the pipe mounting bracket; and a plurality of air passages extending through the body for connecting the plurality of ports defined in the manifold face with the plurality of ports defined in the pipe bracket face. The transition plate establishes a pneumatic interface between the electronic manifold and the pipe mounting bracket. |
| US09481346B2 |
Method of and apparatus for braking a tractor-trailer combination
A method of controlling the braking of a tractor-trailer combination (10) in which the tractor (11) includes a drive train having an engine and at least one ground-engaging member (14, 16) driveably connected thereto via an adjustable-ratio transmission; at least one ground-engaging member (14, 16) of the tractor includes at least one tractor brake; and at least one ground-engaging member (17) of the trailer (12) includes at least one further, trailer brake, comprises the steps of determining (i) the deceleration of the tractor-trailer combination (10) resulting from braking effort applied via the tractor brake and/or (ii) the deceleration of the tractor-trailer combination resulting from engine braking. The method also includes establishing from one or both the said, determined decelerations as a target value in a control system a braking effort of the trailer brake that approximates the braking of the tractor-trailer combination (10) to the braking of the tractor (11) when considered alone. |
| US09481345B2 |
Control device of a motor vehicle and method for operating same
A control device for a motor vehicle such that during a driving direction change from an original direction and/or during a starting process and/or during a stopping process and/or during a rolling process, in order to assist with the driving direction change and/or starting process and/or stopping process and/or rolling process, an appropriate control signal is provided by the control device to automatically activate a service brake. The control device automatically determines the friction energy produced at a starting clutch, during the driving direction change and/or starting process and/or stopping process and/or rolling process, without activation of the service brake. The control device only automatically activates the service brake, to assist with the driving direction change and/or starting process and/or stopping process and/or rolling process, if the determined friction energy exceeds a limit value. |
| US09481339B2 |
Gas generator
The present invention provides a gas generator, including a cylindrical housing having therein an ignition device chamber and a pressurized gas chamber, a closing member in a circular shape having a fragile portion provided on one surface and closing between the chambers, a piston being disposed inside the ignition device chamber and having a base plate and a rod that extends in the axial direction from one surface of the base plate to abut against or face the closing member, the fragile portion being a groove formed with a curve extending from a start point A on Y1 to an end point E through a first intermediate point B on Y2, a second intermediate point C on Y1, and a third intermediate point D on Y2, where Y1 and Y2 are two straight lines drawn to be orthogonal to each other and to pass through a crossing point X2 on one surface of the closing member, the groove formed so that distances from the crossing point X2 to the respective points satisfy the following relationship: the distance to the start point A |
| US09481338B2 |
Method of manufacturing a trim component with hidden tear pattern and trim component with hidden tear pattern
A method of manufacturing a trim component includes forming a skin layer of the trim component, and spraying a foam layer on the skin layer according to a first spray pattern that establishes a first gap in the foam layer arranged as a predetermined tear pattern. The skin layer extends across the first gap. A corresponding trim component has a skin layer with an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface, and a foam layer sprayed on the inner surface of the skin layer according to a predetermined spray pattern so that the foam layer has a first gap arranged as a predetermined tear pattern, with the skin layer extending across the first gap. |
| US09481332B1 |
Plug-n-play power system for an accessory in an aircraft
A power system for an aircraft is disclosed. The power system comprises a power panel, at least one power rail coupled to the power panel, wherein the power rail is integrated with a mounting rail for the passenger service unit, and at least one universal serial bus (USB) port coupled to the power panel and mounted in the passenger service unit. |
| US09481322B2 |
Structure of door trim and door inner belt for vehicle
A structure of a door trim and a door inner belt including a door trim mounted to an inner side of a vehicle door to form an interior space of the door together with a door outer panel. A trim inner rail is fixedly mounted to the door trim in the interior space of the door and has a hollow polygon shape. A door inner belt includes at least one contact rib extending in a width direction of a vehicle toward and to be in contact with a door glass. A coupling portion extends in the opposite direction of the at least one contact rib and coupled to at least one of the door trim and the trim inner rail. |
| US09481320B2 |
Front pillar exterior garnish for a vehicle body
A vehicle body assembly includes a front pillar extending at an incline rearwards and upwards to form a part of a door opening. The front pillar includes a tubular structural member. The structural member defines a vehicle exterior-side wall section and a passenger compartment-side wall section. A windshield is adhered to the vehicle exterior-side wall section of the structural member. A pillar outer cover is disposed outwardly of the front pillar and is secured to the exterior-side wall section of the structural member. The pillar outer cover includes an edge section overlapping and sealingly engaged to the windshield. |
| US09481315B1 |
Pickup truck storage device
A device for movably mounting a storage container in relation to the storage bed of a pickup truck. The device includes a container support frame with a mounting member configured to be fixedly secured in relation to the pickup truck storage bed, and a lift arm having a first end coupled to the container support frame for pivotal movement about a first pivot axis and a second end configured to be coupled to the storage container for pivotal movement about a second pivot axis. The second end of the lift arm is movable along an arcuate path about the first pivot axis between a stowed position in which the storage container is disposed between the side rails and an extended position in which the storage container is disposed above a side rail. The storage container is pivotable about the second pivot axis to maintain an upright orientation in the stowed and extended positions, providing a variety of convenient access and storage options. Also, the frame can be confined to a very small portion of the storage bed or hidden within existing components of the storage bed to allow substantially unimpeded top and rear access to the storage bed. |
| US09481314B2 |
Vehicle roof rack with collapsible handrail assembly
A safety railing for attachment to a vehicle roof mounted rack to reduce the likelihood of fall injuries to workers who have mounted to roof of the vehicle has a pair of side railings joined by a front railing and supported by balusters that pivotally attach to the roof rack. A crank operated mechanism is provided for shifting the balusters between an erect, vertical orientation and a collapsed orientation where the safety railing lies flat against the roof rack. |
| US09481313B2 |
Ergonomic ladder rack for work vans
An ergonomically improved vehicle ladder rack has the top of its side rail(s) flush with the top surface of the rear cross-bar so that a foot portion of a ladder being transported may be made to slide off from the rack without a need for lifting it. To prevent lateral shifting of the ladder during transport on the vehicle, an abutment finger is added to the rotatable rung clamping assembly. The abutment finger blocks lateral shifting of a ladder when the rung hook is engaging a ladder rung and is non-blocking when the rung is disengaged. |
| US09481306B2 |
Automotive communication system
An automotive communication system for a vehicle includes a multi-pixel reconfigurable display device disposed at an interior portion of a vehicle. Data is wirelessly communicated to and is received by electronic circuitry of the vehicle from a mobile accessory that is a personal accessory of an occupant of the vehicle. The data is at least in part customized to the geographic location of the vehicle as determined by a global positioning system operable to determine a geographical location. Information derived at least in part from the data is displayed by the display device and is viewable by a driver of the vehicle. The automotive communication system includes voice input and the automotive communication system includes voice generation. The data is from a data provider located external of and remote from the vehicle. |
| US09481305B2 |
Anti-glare mirror, vehicle, and manufacturing method for anti-glare mirror
The size of an anti-glare mirror in which an electrochromic layer to which voltage can be applied is disposed on a back surface side of a glass substrate serving as a mirror surface can be reduced, and the mirror surface thereof can be used widely.[Solution] A transparent electrode film 19 and an electrochromic layer 20 having a cut portion 25A for exposing a part of the transparent electrode film 19 are sequentially stacked on a back surface of a glass substrate 18, an electrode/reflecting film 21A is stacked on a back surface of the electrochromic layer 20 in an area excluding the cut portion 25A, a first terminal 28 is electrically connected to the electrode/reflecting film 21A, and a second terminal 29 is electrically connected to the transparent electrode 19 within the cut portion 25A. |
| US09481301B2 |
Vehicle vision system utilizing camera synchronization
A vehicular vision system includes an image sensor and an image processor. The image sensor is disposed at a vehicle and has an exterior field of view. The image sensor is operable to capture image data. The image processor is operable to process captured image data. The vision system is operable to automatically synchronize the image sensor to an ECU reference timing. The vision system may power on the image sensor synchronous to the ECU reference timing, and the vision system may regulate the timing of the image sensor synchronous to the ECU reference timing. The vision system may regulate the timing of the image sensor between a fast mode and a slow mode to synchronize the timing of the image sensor to the ECU reference timing. |
| US09481299B2 |
Warning device for a possible vehicle collision based on time and distance
When a warning is generated for a driver of a host vehicle based on approach information about a moving object, a selection between a first warning method and a second warning method is determined in accordance with the moving direction of the moving object with respect to the host vehicle. In the first warning method, a predicted collision time, which is the predicted amount of time before the moving object will collide with the host vehicle, is calculated based on the approach information, and the driver is warned only when the predicted collision time is less than a threshold value. In the second warning method, the distance between the moving object and the host vehicle is obtained as the approach information, and the driver is warned only when that distance is a value that corresponds to a value within a warning range. |
| US09481296B2 |
Illuminated chromatic emblem assembly with micro LEDS
An illuminated emblem assembly is provided that includes a power source, a backing member, and a light-producing assembly coupled to the power source and supported by the backing member. The light-producing assembly includes a plurality of light-emitting diode sources. The light-producing assembly may also include a plurality of micro-sized, dispersed light-emitting diode sources. The illuminated emblem assembly further includes a translucent base region over the light sources, a chromatic layer over the translucent base region and a UV-stable translucent sealing structure over the chromatic layer that seals the backing member, the light producing assembly, and the chromatic layer. The sealing structure may be UV-stable and/or include a design feature. The illuminated emblem assembly exhibits a chrome- or mirror-like finish when viewed under ambient lighting conditions. Further, the illuminated emblem assembly possesses a glowing appearance when activated under low light or nighttime conditions. |
| US09481294B2 |
Planter monitor system and method
A planter monitor system and method that provides an operator with near real-time data concerning yield robbing events and the economic cost associated with such yield robbing events so as to motivate the operator to take prompt corrective action. |
| US09481293B2 |
LED light
It is provided a LED light (10) for a motor vehicle, comprising several LED fields (14), wherein each LED field (14) comprises at least one LED (L1, L2, L3, L4), a housing (34) for supporting the LED fields (14) and a circuit board (12) comprising a driving electronics for operating the LED fields (14), wherein the LED fields (14) are connected in series by the driving electronics and the driving electronics is adapted to switch on and off each LED field (14) according to its position in the series in dependence of a signal, wherein the circuit board (12) is connectable to an outside of the LED light (10) located current source (16) for applying an electrical current to the LED fields (14), and wherein the circuit board (12) is integrated into the housing (34). Since complicated and/or changing switching orders of the LED fields (14) are not intended the necessary circuit board (12) for providing the corresponding driving electronics may be so small that it may be integrated into the housing (34) of the LED light (10) without significantly increasing the building space. Particularly a lot of wires between a central control unit and the different LED fields (14) are omitted as well as the central control unit itself so that the LED light (10) only requires a small building space. |
| US09481288B1 |
Driver information and alerting system
A system of providing vehicle information and alerts to a vehicle operator or other user includes a device that removably attaches to the vehicle data port. The device communicates through the data port with a vehicle electronic control module. The device incorporates a set of vehicle operating parameters, communications settings and commands. The device monitors vehicle operating parameters and alerts a vehicle operator or other user if a monitored vehicle operating parameter exceeds a predetermined or configured limit. The vehicle operator or other user may configure custom calculations, formulas, or algorithms to generate new data based on existing vehicle or peripheral input data and then may use this new data as the configured limit to alert the vehicle operator or other user. |
| US09481284B2 |
System and method for restraining a vehicle with integral tightening device
A system includes a strap assembly positioned on a portion of a tire of a vehicle and configured to be coupled to a deck of a transport, and a mandrel assembly operable to be coupled to the strap assembly. The system also includes a winch assembly configured to be coupled to the deck of the transport including a winch assembly axel configured to be coupled to the mandrel assembly. The winch assembly is configured to engage the winch assembly axel to prevent rotation of the mandrel assembly in a first rotational direction to produce a tension force to secure the strap assembly around the portion of the tire. The system further includes a tightening assembly configured to rotate the mandrel assembly in a second rotational direction to produce a tightening force to tighten the strap assembly around the portion of the tire. The system additionally includes a release mechanism. |
| US09481282B2 |
Liftgate having a side-loadable load platform
A liftgate for loading and unloading cargo from a vehicle. The liftgate includes a moveable load platform having a proximal deck section and a distal deck section pivotally coupled to the proximal deck section. A side ramp is pivotally coupled to the distal deck section to facilitate unobstructed side loading and unloading of the distal deck section of the load platform. |
| US09481276B2 |
Operable armrest assembly for vehicle door and center console
A vehicle armrest assembly for a door and console includes a linear actuator extending vertically through at least a portion of an armrest substrate and having a pin at an upper end, a support plate positioned above the armrest substrate and having a slot, wherein the pin slidably engages the slot to allow the support plate to operate laterally along the slot and rotationally about the pin between a plurality of lateral and rotational positions, respectively. The linear actuator vertically operates the support plate between a plurality of vertical positions and a cover member is disposed over the support plate. |
| US09481271B2 |
Child seat
A child seat includes a seat shell, a retractor assembly connected with the seat shell, two anchor strap portions extending outward from a rear of the seat shell, and an adjustment strap extending outside the seat shell. Each of the two anchor straps is provided with a fastener operable to attach with an anchor structure of a vehicle. The two anchor strap portions extend outward from a rear of the seat shell, and are provided with two fasteners operable to attach with an anchor structure of a vehicle, the anchor strap portions being connected with the retractor assembly. The adjustment strap is operable to actuate the retractor assembly to retract the anchor strap portions toward an interior of the seat shell. |
| US09481270B2 |
Fitting for a vehicle seat and vehicle seat
A vehicle seat fitting has a fitting parts (11, 12) have a sprocket (17) and guide segments (14), a bar (16) guided by the guide segments between a locked and unlocked state that interact with the sprocket. The bar has bar cams (16a, 16b). An eccentric (27) is rotatably mounted around a rotation axis (A) and in a transition from unlocked to the locked, engages the bar with a force for clamping the bar against the sprocket. The eccentric has eccentric cams (28, 128) interacting with the bar cams. The first eccentric cam has a cam section (28.2) which runs in the peripheral direction concentrically around the axis. The cam section is arranged upstream in the closing direction of a further cam section (28.4) that has a cam contour running radially outwards downstream in the closing direction relative to the concentrically peripheral contour for clamping the bar against the sprocket. |
| US09481268B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat has a first member and a second member bonded to each other with an adhesive agent is provided with a projecting portion that projects from an adhering surface of the first member toward the second member with one end to the other end in a protruding direction of the projecting parts held on the inner side of an outer edge of the adhering surface. An adhesive agent layer formed by the adhesive agent interposed between the first member and the second member surrounds the projecting portion while in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the projecting portion. |
| US09481266B2 |
Vehicle seat rail locking device
The present disclosure provides a locking device which includes a fixed rail, a moving rail sliding relative to the fixed rail, locking pins arranged along the moving rail, locking springs disposed around the locking pins, and an unlocking lever rotating around a shaft fixed to the moving rail so as to relieve the locking pins from a locked state where the locking pins are inserted into the holes. The present disclosure thereby provides the locking device for a seat rail having a compact configuration. |
| US09481257B2 |
Battery charging device for an electric vehicle
An electric vehicle battery charging device includes: a series resonance part, which receives a rectified voltage, and which includes a transformer, a resonant inductor, and a resonant capacitor; a rectifying part, of which a first input end is connected with one end of a secondary winding of the transformer, a second input end is connected with the other end of the secondary winding of the transformer, and an output end is connected with an electric vehicle battery; and a switching part, of which one end is connected with one end of the secondary winding of the transformer and the first input end of the rectifying part, and the other end is connected with the other end of the secondary winding of the transformer and the second input end of the rectifying part, where the switching part controls the current from the secondary winding of the transformer to the rectifying part. |
| US09481244B1 |
Friction drive system for a utility machine
A utility machine including a frame, a prime mover supported by the frame, a pair of wheels rotatably coupled to the frame, a drive disk coupled to the prime mover to be driven by the prime mover, and a friction disk assembly. The friction disk assembly includes a friction disk in engagement with the drive disk for transmitting rotation of the drive disk to the pair of wheels, and a carrier disk coupled to the friction disk for rotation therewith. The utility machine also includes a shifter mechanism including a bearing disposed directly between the friction disk and the carrier disk. The shifter mechanism is operable to move the friction disk assembly with respect to the drive disk to selectively vary a drive speed of the pair of wheels. |
| US09481243B2 |
Traction control system for 4WD/AWD vehicles equipped with onboard camera
A method controls a powertrain that directs power from an engine and a transmission to all four wheels or to just front wheels or to just rear wheels. The method includes monitoring information transmitted over a communications network. The method determines whether one or more components of the powertrain are in an active condition or in an inactive condition. The one or more components of the powertrain are in the inactive condition when not connected to the transmission and not connected to the front wheels or the rear wheels. The one or more components of the powertrain are in the active condition when connected to the transmission and connected to the front wheels and the rear wheels. The method switches the one or more components of the powertrain between the inactive condition and the active condition based at least in part on visual data provided by an on-board camera system. |
| US09481241B2 |
Cooling system for a vehicle solar panel
A vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes an engine, a vehicle body panel, a photovoltaic unit attached to the vehicle body panel, and a cooling arrangement. The cooling arrangement includes a heat exchanger and a first cooling loop configured to accept heat from the engine and reject heat through the heat exchanger. The cooling arrangement also includes a second cooling loop configured to accept heat from the photovoltaic unit and reject heat through the heat exchanger. |
| US09481239B2 |
Misfuelling prevention apparatus for vehicles
A misfuelling prevention apparatus for vehicles can prevent a diesel vehicle from being filled with a wrong fuel. The apparatus for vehicles may include an upper housing at an entrance of a filler neck, an internal housing located at a bottom of the upper housing while being supported by an interior of the filler neck, a stopper and a stopper spring, and a flapper and a flapper spring. The stopper may be at one side of the internal housing to be rotated around a pin by a contact with an oil gun. One end of the flapper may be rotatably installed in a pin structure at an opposite side of the internal housing with respect to the stopper and the other end of the flapper may be caught in a recess of the stopper. The flapper is to be pushed and selectively opened by the oil gun. |
| US09481238B2 |
Crash-tolerant system arrangement in a motor-vehicle engine compartment
A crash-tolerant system arrangement in an engine compartment situated in the front end region of a motor vehicle includes an exhaust emission control system having an essentially cylindrical first catalytic converter housing situated in front of the exhaust gas turbocharger in the travel direction. The exhaust gas turbocharger is mechanically connected to an exhaust gas manifold via a first fastening device, and to an engine block via a second fastening device, the first and the second fastening devices being designed in such a way that a detachment of the connection of the exhaust gas turbocharger to the exhaust gas manifold and/or a detachment of the connection of the exhaust gas turbocharger to the engine block take(s) place within a predefined upper value range for the pressure force. |
| US09481237B2 |
System and method for controlling air flow in vehicle
A system for controlling an air flow in a vehicle may include a front air introduction apparatus mounted in front of an engine, a condenser provided to the front air introduction apparatus, an intercooler provided behind the condenser, a radiator provided between the intercooler and the engine, an active air flap for controlling air flow being introduced to the front air introduction apparatus, a side air introduction apparatus mounted to a side of an engine compartment for forwarding air to the engine, a connection line connected between the side air introduction apparatus and the front air introduction apparatus, a control valve for controlling air flow through the connection line, a plurality of sensors for measuring an operation state of the vehicle, and a control unit for determining an operation state of the vehicle based on a plurality of sensor signals, and controlling operation of the control valve. |
| US09481236B2 |
Powertrain for a vehicle
A powertrain is disclosed. A ring gear is attached to a first distal end of a crankshaft such that the ring gear and the crankshaft are rotatable in unison about a longitudinal axis. A motor-generator includes a motor/generator shaft rotatable about a first axis spaced from the longitudinal axis. A starter mechanism includes a first starter gear coupleable to the motor/generator shaft and rotatable about a second axis spaced from the longitudinal axis. The first and second axes are spaced and substantially parallel to each other. The first starter gear is movable along the second axis between a first position engaging the ring gear such that torque is transferred from the motor/generator shaft through the first starter gear and the ring gear to the crankshaft to start the engine, and a second position disengaged from the ring gear to rotatably disconnect the starter mechanism from the ring gear. |
| US09481233B2 |
Sheet winding apparatus
A sheet winding apparatus has a sheet, a winding axis to which one end of the sheet is fixed and having a cylindrical shape, a spring that is arranged in the winding axis and gives a biasing force to the winding axis in an opposite direction of drawing-out direction of the sheet, and a soundproof tube that is arranged between an outer periphery of the spring and inside the winding axis. The soundproof tube has first projected portions projecting outward from an outer periphery of the soundproof tube. |
| US09481229B2 |
Protection device for a vehicle interior
A protection device for a vehicle interior having a flexible planar formation movable between stored rest and tensioned protection positions. The formation is provided at a front end region in a tensioning direction with a dimensionally stable draw-out profile member guided between the rest and protection positions by at least one guide arrangement. The draw-out profile member includes a longitudinal compensator to compensate for deviations between movement directions of the guide arrangement and the draw-out profile member. The guide arrangement has at least one linearly guided carrier element, and the draw-out profile member includes an undercut compensation groove which extends in the longitudinal direction of the draw-out profile member and which is open towards the carrier. The carrier comprises a longitudinally displaceable sliding or rolling element which is retained in a positive-locking manner in the receiving groove in the opening direction of the compensation groove. |
| US09481226B2 |
Vehicular air-conditioning system including a temperature-dependent control cycle
A vehicular air-conditioning system includes: a vehicle interior air-conditioning apparatus which includes a device cooling circuit of a heat generating device mounted in a vehicle, and a refrigeration cycle circuit; and an intermediate heat exchanger for heat exchange between a device cooling medium of the device cooling circuit and an air-conditioning cooling medium of the refrigeration cycle circuit. A vehicle control apparatus is configured to determine a temperature of the cooling medium, and select a shorter control cycle timing of the vehicular air-conditioning system when the temperature of the cooling medium is greater than a predetermined temperature. |
| US09481224B2 |
Active airflow outlet for a vehicle and method
An active airflow outlet for a vehicle and method for facilitating airflow through an active airflow outlet are provided. The active airflow outlet may operate in one of a static mode and an active mode. The active airflow outlet may include a motor, a gear assembly, a plurality of vent blades, and at least one control mechanism. The gear assembly may be operatively connected to the motor and the plurality of vent blades. The plurality of vent blades may be capable of occupying one of an open position and a closed position. The at least one control mechanism may be configured to signal the plurality of vent blades to rotate from the closed position to the open position and signal the motor to rotate the gear assembly and the plurality of vent blades in the active mode to facilitate additional airflow through the active airflow outlet. |
| US09481221B2 |
Passive and active suspension with optimization of energy usage
A hydraulic actuator includes a shock absorber and a control system that is separate from the shock absorber and which generates damping loads for the hydraulic actuator. The control system generates the damping load by using a pair of variable valves, a pair of check valves, an accumulator, a pump/motor and a flow controller. The forces are generated in all four quadrants of compression/rebound and active/passive. A device which recuperates the energy generated by the hydraulic actuator can be incorporated into the hydraulic actuator to generate energy in the form of electrical energy. |
| US09481220B2 |
Method for producing a transverse member
The disclosure relates to a method for producing a transverse member having a securable ball joint receiving member from a transverse member having an integral ball joint receiving member. The transverse member is the kind used for connecting a vehicle wheel to a vehicle structure. The method comprises providing a transverse member having an integral ball joint receiving member, separating the integral ball joint receiving member from the transverse member, and connecting a securable ball joint receiving member to the transverse member to replace the removed integral ball joint receiving member. This method may be performed to correct the position and orientation of a ball joint as provided by the integral ball joint receiving member or to further utilize a production tool that already produces a transverse member with an integral ball joint receiving member. |
| US09481219B2 |
Vehicle assembly for propulsion over water and land
A vehicle (20) consisting of a frame (22) with a pair of paddles (72) extending longitudinally and rotatably supported by the frame (22) in pendulum fashion for swinging movement between an extended position engaging the surface and a retracted position moved vertically out of engagement with the surface. A pair of foot platforms (74) are operatively connected to the paddles (72). A pair of depressors (84) interconnects the foot platforms (74) and the paddles (72) to rotate the paddles (72) between the extended position and the retracted position. The paddles (72) include a propulsion bar (86) and an oar (88) connected by a lost-motion connection to slide relative to one another between the extended position and the retracted position. The oars (88) have a fin-shape to propel the vehicle (20) over water and include a striker (90) to propel the vehicle (20) over land. The vehicle (20) allows movement over a surface of water and land using an elliptical motion similar to the natural motion of walking. |
| US09481218B2 |
Dual trailer system and convertible trailer adaptable thereto
The dual trailer system adapted to be towed by a pick-up truck having a fifth wheel on a bed thereof, the dual trailer system comprising: a lead trailer having a wheeled frame with a gooseneck-mounted kingpin at a front end thereof, for coupling to the fifth wheel of the pick-up truck, and a lead trailer fifth wheel at the rear of the lead trailer; a tail trailer having a wheeled frame with a tail trailer kingpin at a front end thereof, the primary trailer hitch having a kingpin matching the lead trailer fifth wheel for attachment thereto. The lead trailer can have an extendible portion at the rear to allow selectively extending and retracting the fifth wheel for use together with or independently from the tail trailer, and the tail trailer can also be usable independently from the lead trailer such as by way of an additional coupler which can also be provided on an extendible frame. |
| US09481217B2 |
Method for generating tire model
In a computerized method for generating a finite element model of a pneumatic tire provided in the tread portion with a zero-degree band, a 2D tire model is firstly generated based on the finished tire shape in a tire vulcanization mold, where the 2D tire model includes a 2D model of a band ply. Secondary, a residual stress is computed and defined on each element of the band ply model. Then, a deformation calculation is made on the 2D tire model to obtain the deformed 2D tire model. Finally, a 3D tire model is generated by duplicating the 2D tire model around the tire rotational axis. |
| US09481215B2 |
Air pressure control system
A system for controlling bicycle tire air pressure on the go is provided. The system has a wheel mounted portion and a control unit in communication with one another. The wheel mounted portion attached to each wheel has a gas source, manifold, regulator to control air flow into and out of the tire, and a communication device. The control unit monitors air pressure in each tire, and has a user interface allowing input of a higher or lower tire pressure. Based on user input, the control unit instructs operation of the wheel mounted portion, controlling pressure within the tire. |
| US09481214B2 |
Vehicle hub unit and air pressure adjusting device
A vehicle hub unit that supports a wheel that attaches to a pneumatic tire and is attached to a joint and an air pressure adjusting device that has this vehicle hub unit, provided with a first air passage that is formed with a first opening in at least one location on a surface that attaches to the wheel, is attached to pneumatic piping of the joint that supplies air, and supplies air from the first opening to the wheel; and a second air passage that is formed with a second opening in at least one location on a surface that attaches to the wheel, is attached to pneumatic piping of the joint that exhausts air of the joint, and collects air of the wheel from the second opening. |
| US09481212B2 |
Pneumatic tire
On the tread surface, land portions are defined by a pair of circumferential main grooves and divided, by circumferential narrow grooves 3 and multiple lateral grooves 4 connecting between the circumferential main groove and the circumferential narrow groove or between the circumferential narrow grooves, into block rows L each of which including polygonal blocks arranged in a tire circumferential direction, wherein a block arrangement having the polygonal blocks 5 arranged in a line-symmetric manner with respect to the tire equator as an axis of symmetry includes side regions R1, R2 facing each other across the tire equator C and displaced from each other in the tire circumferential direction by a phase difference of 0.2 to 0.4 times of a repetition pitch of a pattern of the block row. |
| US09481210B2 |
Pneumatic tire
Plural lug grooves are formed that extend from an outermost circumferential direction groove towards a tire equatorial plane side and are disposed sloped with respect to the tire equatorial plane at intervals along the tire circumferential direction. Arc shaped communication grooves are formed in segment land portions arising from a land portion being segmented in the tire circumferential direction by the lug grooves. The communication grooves communicate between the lug grooves adjacent to each other in the tire circumferential direction. |
| US09481207B2 |
Adjustable sleeve for rolling support device
A caster device includes a base attachable to a supported item, one or more rolling elements that interface with the base to facilitate rolling of the supported item along a support surface, and an external sleeve coupled to the base for adjustable vertical positioning of the external sleeve relative to the base. The external sleeve can be placed in a first vertical position relative to the base where the rolling element(s) do not contact the support surface, and in a second vertical position relative to the base where the rolling elements do contact the support surface. A rimguard may be rotatively coupled with the external sleeve so that as the external sleeve is rotated to the first vertical position, the bottom rim of the external sleeve rotates relative to a rimguard inner surface and a rimguard outer surface does not rotate relative to the support surface. |
| US09481204B1 |
Wheel rim
Various aspects of a wheel rim for use with agricultural equipment, such as an irrigation system are disclosed. In one example, the wheel rim includes first and second concentric rim plates separated by a distance, each of the first and second concentric rim plates having an outer surface. The wheel rim further includes a plurality of cross members spanning the distance. |
| US09481202B2 |
Plug for a tubeless bicycle wheel
A bicycle wheel is disclosed having a spoke, a nipple coupled to the spoke, and a rim coupled to the nipple and having an annular panel with inner and outer surfaces and an access hole. A plug is positioned over the access hole and includes a cap that is larger than the access hole, a leg extending from the cap and through the access hole, and a barb protruding radially from the leg to at least partially engage the inner surface of the annular panel. The plug can further include a resilient member compressed between the cap and the outer surface of the annular panel. On some rims, the annular panel has a non-planar contour. For these rims, the resilient member and/or the cap can be shaped to match the non-planar contour of the annular panel. |
| US09481201B2 |
Spoke with enhanced fatigue resistance
A spoke includes a spoke body that has two ends respectively forming a terminal section and the threaded section and includes a neck section arranged below the terminal section; a first flattened section set at a location below the neck section; and a second flattened section set at a location below the first flattened section in such a way that the second flattened section and the first flattened section are at different horizontal plane. In assembling the spoke body to a wheel hub and a wheel rim, the combination of the first flattened section and the second flattened section helps set the spoke body at a correct position and direction for assembly and force taking, whereby the first flattened section may absorb torsion and the second flattened section helps transfer tension and allows for change of the angle of bending. |
| US09481196B2 |
Popup displays for financial transaction cards
Foldable financial transaction card displays that include at least one popup member, methods of making such displays, and methods of promoting such displays. Some of the displays include folding members that are unitary with the popup members. |
| US09481195B1 |
Greeting card with dial activated audio
The greeting card of the present invention contains a user-interactive dial mechanism which can be manipulated to play different audio clips. The dial mechanism may be moveable, for example, between four different positions wherein moving the dial mechanism to each position triggers replay of a different audio clip at each of the four different positions. |
| US09481193B2 |
Apparatus and method for forming an image on a medium using a plurality of erasable materials
An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment comprises a first image forming section configured to form an image on a recording medium with a non-erasable material, and a second image forming section configured to form an image on the recording medium with an erasable material. The image forming apparatus further comprises a control section configured to separate image data according to attributes of the image data into first image data to be printed on the recording medium in the first image forming section and second image data to be printed on the recording medium in the second image forming section. |
| US09481192B2 |
Thermal transfer recording sheet
An object of the present invention is to provide a thermal transfer recording sheet that enables high-chroma images to be formed, has a high color-developability that enables a wide color gamut to be achieved, and enables high-quality black images to be formed using process black. The thermal transfer recording sheet includes a base material, and a yellow dye layer including a yellow dye, a magenta dye layer including a magenta dye, and a cyan dye layer including a cyan dye that are disposed on the base material. The magenta dye, yellow dye, and cyan dye each contain specific compounds. |
| US09481188B2 |
Liquid droplet ejecting apparatus and liquid droplet ejecting method
A liquid droplet ejecting apparatus executes multi-pass recording constituted of N scan passes including a scan pass for an outward path and a scan pass for a return path (N being an integer of 2 or more). When a proportion of executions of dot recording using a first liquid in each scan pass is made a first recording ratio, and a proportion of executions of dot recording using a second liquid in each pass is made a second recording ratio, the first recording ratio and the second recording ratio are set such that, in a first half of the N scan passes, a total ratio of the first recording ratio is larger than a total ratio of the second recording ratio, and in a second half of the N scan passes, a total ratio of the second recording ratio is larger than a total ratio of the first recording ratio. |
| US09481186B2 |
Automatically adjusting printing parameters using media identification
A method for automatically adjusting the setting(s) of a printer having a control circuit in communication with a sensory system and a database. The database is located in a storage medium and the data in the database includes one or more defined parameter settings corresponding to one or more media types. The sensory system is used to obtain a media identifier from media loaded into the printer. The control circuit determines the type of media from the media identifier. The media type is then compared to the database entries and used to retrieve any defined parameter setting(s) corresponding to the media type identified by the media identifier. Instructions to adjust the printer setting(s) according to the defined parameter setting(s) are determined at the control circuit. The control circuit then sends the instructions to the appropriate systems of the printer to adjusted the printer setting(s) according to the defined parameter setting(s). |
| US09481185B2 |
Printing apparatus and printing method
A printing apparatus includes: a printing plate having a recessed portion formed therein shaped corresponding to a pattern to be formed on a substrate; an inking unit including an inkjet head that performs an inking process of ejecting a liquid into the recessed portion, the liquid having particles as a material of the pattern dispersed therein; a laminating unit that performs a laminating process of laminating the substrate on a surface having the recessed portion formed therein after the inking process; a post-drying unit that performs a drying process on the liquid inside the recessed portion in a state in which the substrate is laminated on the surface having the recessed portion formed therein, thereby to reduce the fluidity of the liquid; and a peeling unit that peels off the substrate from the printing plate after the drying process by the post-drying unit. |
| US09481184B2 |
Transfer printing method and apparatus
A printing method is provided that enables a high-quality transfer image to be obtained with simple steps. As a solution, a printing method according to the present invention includes an applying step of applying a latex ink onto a transfer medium 10 to form an ink applied surface, a heating step of heating the transfer medium 10 to increase the viscosity of the latex ink, a transfer step of contacting and transferring the latex ink on the transfer medium 10 to a printing target 15, and a drying step of drying the latex ink on the printing target 15. |
| US09481182B2 |
Liquid supplying device and liquid cartridge mountable therein
A liquid supplying device includes a liquid cartridge and a cartridge mounting unit having a liquid extraction tube. The liquid cartridge includes a liquid chamber, a valve chamber extending in a first direction away from the liquid chamber, first and second air channels, a seal member having a through-hole, a valve element having a closing part, first and second sealing parts and a liquid channel. A third sealing part is provided on the closing part or the liquid extraction tube. The liquid extraction tube entering into the valve chamber through the through-hole contacts the closing part, moving the valve element in a second direction opposite to the first direction from a first state where the closing part closes the through-hole, to a second state where the third sealing part closes the through-hole, and to a third state where the valve chamber is communicated with inside of the liquid extraction tube. |
| US09481180B2 |
Liquid container, liquid container unit, liquid ejecting system, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid container is mountable on a mount portion in a state of being engaged into a first engaging portion with respect to a supporting portion. The liquid container includes a first wall including a first section mountable on the mount portion; a second wall facing the first wall; a third wall intersecting with the first wall and the second wall; a fourth wall which faces the third wall, and intersects with the first wall and the second wall; and a first engaged portion capable of being engaged into the first engaging portion, in which when a direction from the first wall to the second wall is defined as a Z-axis direction, the first engaged portion is projected to the side opposite to the second wall side from the first wall, and is capable of coming in contact with the first engaging portion in the Z-axis direction. |
| US09481178B2 |
Printing system with self-purge, sediment prevention and fumes removal arrangements
A printing head assembly with integrated purge mechanism is disclosed. The printing head assembly comprises: (a) a liquid dispensing head comprising one or more dispensing nozzles enclosed in a nozzle plate, driven by at least first and second pressures, and (b) a shielding mask including an opening in front of the one or more nozzles, wherein the opening being configured such that when printing liquid is dispensed from the head driven by the first pressure, the liquid being dispensed in pulses through the opening in the shielding mask, and (ii) when purge printing liquid is dispensed from the head driven by the second pressure, the liquid being drawn to a capillary gap formed between the shielding mask and the nozzle plate thereby removing the purge printing liquid from the nearby nozzles. |
| US09481171B2 |
Element substrate and liquid discharge head
An element substrate includes a discharge port that discharges a liquid, an energy-generating element that generates energy that discharges the liquid from the discharge port, an acting chamber that makes the energy of the energy-generating element act on the liquid, and a heating element including at least two heat generating surfaces that are exposed to the liquid inside the acting chamber, the heating element disposed inside the acting chamber. The element substrate further includes a substrate in which a supply port that supplies liquid to the acting chambers is formed. The heating element may be disposed such that the heat generating surfaces are spaced apart from the substrate. |
| US09481170B2 |
Printing apparatus and printing method
When printing is performed by discharging ink from a printing head onto a lenticular, a carriage motor is controlled such that a carriage is moved in a main scanning direction at a velocity which is slower than a movement velocity of the carriage at the time of performing a normal printing process with respect to a recording medium different from the lenticular as a recording paper and further separated from a home position, and the printing head is controlled such that an ink discharge having a color according to printing data is started with respect to an end portion of the lenticular, and thus the printing of one pass is started. Since the velocity is slower than the movement velocity of the carriage at the time of performing the normal printing process, it is possible to improve printing quality at the time of performing printing with respect to the lenticular. |
| US09481168B2 |
Device for detecting state of discharged liquid droplet and image-forming apparatus including the same
A device for detecting a state of a discharged liquid droplet includes a plurality of nozzles which is arranged in a width direction of a recording medium orthogonal to a feeding direction of the recording medium to discharge a liquid droplet toward the recording medium, a light emitter which is provided on one side of the recording medium in the width direction orthogonal to the feeding direction of the recording medium, and a light receiver which is provided on the other side of the recording medium in the width direction, wherein the light emitter includes a light-emitting element, a condenser lens which condenses light from the light-emitting element to emit as a light beam, and an aperture stop member including an aperture opening through which the light beam passes. |
| US09481166B2 |
Piezoelectric element drive circuit and state detection method, and image recording device
Provided are a piezoelectric element drive circuit and state detection method, and an image recording device which realize state detection of a piezoelectric element inexpensively and with a suppressed circuit scale in a drive circuit for rapidly driving a large-capacity load that uses negative voltage drive. An output potential (VOUT) of a boost unit (BST) is detected in a state in which VS_AMP supplied to an amplification unit (AMP) is set to a voltage lower than a maximum rating of a transistor (FET1) by SW1, supply of VS_FET to the boost unit (BST) is blocked by SW2, and an individual electrode (28) of a piezoactuator (30) is pulled down to VS_FET via a resistor (R6). |
| US09481162B2 |
Three-dimensional shaped article manufacturing method
A three-dimensional shaped article manufacturing method with which a three-dimensional shaped article having a glossy texture can be manufactured stably and efficiently is provided. A three-dimensional shaped article manufacturing method for manufacturing a three-dimensional shaped article by laminating layers formed by discharging and curing inks including a curable resin, the method including: applying a substantive section-forming ink to a region that forms the three-dimensional shaped article, and applying a sacrificial layer-forming ink for forming a sacrificial layer to a region that is adjacent to a region that forms an outermost layer of the three-dimensional shaped article and on a surface side of the outermost layer, a viscoelasticity of the sacrificial layer-forming ink during curing of the substantive section-forming ink being not less than a viscoelasticity of the substantive section-forming ink during curing of the substantive section-forming ink. |
| US09481154B2 |
Method for producing laminate for configuring image display device, and image display device using the laminate
A method for producing a laminate for configuring an image display device is provided, capable of realizing simultaneously unevenness followability and anti-bubble reliability. A method for producing a laminate for configuring an image display device is proposed, comprising the following steps (1) and (2):(1) The step of forming an adhesive composition into the form of a monolayer or a multilayer sheet, and by UV-crosslinking, primary-curing this thereby forming a pre-secondary curing transparent double-sided adhesive sheet.(2) The step of layering two image display device-constituting members via the pre-secondary curing transparent double-sided adhesive sheet and then irradiating ultraviolet light from at least a first image display device-constituting member side, UV-crosslinking through this member and secondary-curing the pre-secondary curing transparent double-sided adhesive sheet. |
| US09481153B2 |
Method for producing leather parts
The invention relates to a method for producing leather parts (18), which can be processed using saddler technology, from prefabricated final leather (12) for the automotive field. The final leather is split in a splitting process (13) with the formation of a contiguous and closed thin leather hide (14) with a proportional thickness in relation to the final leather of from 15 to 50% and a split leather hide (15) with a proportional thickness of from 50 to 85%. The thin leather hide (14) is then cut to size in a die-cutting process with the formation of predefined thin leather blanks and is lined over the full area of its rear side with a complementary lining blank made from a textile, fibrous and/or foam material which is lighter in mass than leather. In principle, the split leather hide can also be trimmed, cut to size and optionally split to a desired thickness and lined with the formation of split leather parts (19) which can be processed using saddler technology. |
| US09481151B2 |
Method of producing an electrostatic field generator
The present invention relates generally to a method of producing an electrostatic field generating plate. More specifically, the method enables an electrostatic field generating plate to be produced made from PVC for a water purification system wherein the plate generates an electric field. |
| US09481150B2 |
Multilayer film
The present disclosure is directed to multilayer film having has an L* color less than 30 and a 60 degree gloss value less than 10. The multilayer film has a first polyimide layer and a second polyimide layer. The second polyimide layer has 25 to 50 wt % of a polyimide, 15 to 35 wt % of a polyimide particle matting agent, greater than 0 and less than 20 wt % of at least one submicron carbon black and 15 to 50 wt % of at least one submicron fumed metal oxide. |
| US09481149B2 |
Resin article
Provided is a resin article produced by melt processing and having layers formed by a layer-separation. The resin article may include a first resin layer, a second resin layer formed on the first resin layer and an interface layer including a first resin and a second resin and formed between the first resin layer and the second resin layer. The resin article may have improved mechanical and surface characteristics. Further, since coating or plating is not required for manufacturing a resin article, a manufacturing time and/or cost can be reduced, and productivity can be increased. |
| US09481140B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing cosmetics, comprising contents absorption step using absorbent
The apparatus for manufacturing cosmetics comprises the contents absorption step using an absorbent including: (1) a transfer table for transferring a cosmetic container, (2) a suction portion for sucking foreign matter inside an accommodation space of the cosmetic container, (3) a contents injection portion for injecting contents into the accommodation space, (4) an absorbent supply portion for injecting an absorbent into the accommodation space, (5) an absorbent press portion for repeatedly pressing the absorbent inside the accommodation portion, (6) an edge member supply portion for injecting an edge member for fixing the absorbent inside the accommodation space, and (7) an absorbent fixing portion for allowing the edge member to be fixed inside the accommodation space. |
| US09481137B2 |
Method for producing plastic lens
Provided is a method for producing a plastic lens, wherein, in molding a plurality of plastic lenses having different optical surface shapes simultaneously in a single mold 50, by designing cavities 3a and 3b such that each of the plastic lenses to be molded has the same volume, a plurality of plastic lenses having different optical surface shapes can be molded simultaneously in a single molding die without impairing the molding accuracy, and an injection compression molding apparatus used for such method. |
| US09481127B2 |
Method for producing a connection between composite parts
A method for joining together constructional parts which are made of a composite material and extend transversely to one another, such as a flange and a web of a profile, includes the steps of: placing the constructional parts in the desired position with respect to one another so as to form a connecting region in which one of the constructional parts abuts against or in proximity to the other constructional part, causing a thermoplastic material to flow out into the connecting region, fusing together the constructional parts under the influence of heat and pressure. |
| US09481123B2 |
Labeling device for a thermoforming system and method
The invention relates to a labeling device (10) for a thermoforming system (100) comprising: a supply device (11) for at least one label reel (12) having a plurality of labels (1); a first cutting device (26) for separating each label (1) from the at least one label reel (12); a preferably drum-like transfer device (45) for transferring each label (1) separated from the at least one label reel (12) to a mold (102, 103) of a molding tool (101) for producing a container (80), wherein the molding tool (101) comprises several molds (102, 103), and wherein all containers (80) can be produced in the respective molds (102, 103) in one manufacturing cycle by the molding tool (101). According to the invention, the first cutting device (26) is assigned to multiple molds (102, 103) of the molding tool (101) and a label feed device (35) is provided, said device feeding each label (1) separated from the at least one label reel (12) by the cutting device (26) to the transfer devices (45) of the molds (102, 103). |
| US09481120B2 |
Distiller grain production device
A device for producing a high density compact livestock feed from a loose granular material according to various embodiment can include a source for supplying a loose granular material to be treated and moving the treated material through a series of successive treatment zones. Rotatable screws are provided within an extruder to compress and transport the treated material a die. The treated material is pressed through the die while a two-dimensional cross-section compression is applied to the treated material. |
| US09481119B2 |
Injection molding machines and methods for accounting for changes in material properties during injection molding runs
A method and a machine that account for changes in material properties of molten plastic material during an injection run. If viscosity of the molten plastic material changes during an injection run, a controller alters a step time of the injection cycle to ensure that molten plastic material completely fills and packs a mold cavity to prevent part flaws such as short shots or flashing. |
| US09481117B2 |
Manufacturing method of decorative molded article and decorative molded article
In a manufacturing method of a decorative molded article, in which a surface of a fiber-reinforced resin shaped product including carbon fibers in which some carbon fibers are contained in a form of carbon fiber bundle and a thermoplastic resin, is decorated in the mold, a decorative molded article having excellent surface smoothness and an excellent appearance is provided by controlling a pressure in the mold during cooling. |
| US09481113B2 |
Plant for making continuous elastic yarns made of silicone material
A plant for making continuous yarns (30) made of silicon material comprises at least an extrusion station (12), into which the material is introduced in an amorphous condition, and extrusion means (15) which cause the material to exit from the extrusion station (12) along an extrusion axis (D). The plant also comprises a vulcanization station (16), located downstream of the extrusion station (12), at a determinate distance (“L”) therefrom, in which the continuous yarn (30) is vulcanized in a direction of treatment (T). The plant also comprises a drawing unit (18), disposed downstream of the vulcanization station (16). |
| US09481105B2 |
System, method and apparatus for fabricating environmental masonry units
Masonry units, such a blocks, are fabricated in a sequential process, using improved mold structures, such as within a production corridor of a corresponding fabrication system. A compressible masonry feedstock or formulated material, which can be de-agglomerated before use, is filled within a block mold having releasable elements. The feedstock or formulated material is then compressed within the mold structure. The compressed workpiece can be further processed, such as for any of final height adjustment, the establishment of a surface feature, or to remove cores. The block mold, having releasable elements or sides, such as using hinges or springs, is released from the formed block, wherein the formed masonry unit can be removed for curing, and wherein the block mold can be reused to fabricate a subsequent masonry unit. |
| US09481103B2 |
Cutter for dividing a processed product using ultrasound energy and device
A cutter that is used for dividing a processed product using ultrasound energy. The cutter includes a blade that has least one blade wing, the blade wing narrows at a front side towards a cutting edge, and that is adjoined at a rear side by a blade back. The blade back has a first side surface and a second side surface opposing one another. A mounting surface is provided on the first side surface of the blade back, and on the mounting surface a first end piece of at least one curved, coupling element is welded, and a second end piece of the mounting surface has a connecting member that is connected to an energy converter that supplies ultrasound energy to the blade. |
| US09481102B1 |
Spacer for a cable tie tensioning and severing tool
A spacer may include a spacer body configured to be connected to a cable tie tensioning and severing tool, the cable tie tensioning and severing tool being configured for installation of a cable tie, the cable tie including a head and an elongated tail extending from the head, wherein the spacer is configured to space the head of the cable tie away from the cable tie tensioning and severing tool such that a portion of the tail protrudes from the head upon the tail being severed by the cable tie tensioning and severing tool. |
| US09481095B2 |
Robot
A robot according to an embodiment includes a lower arm, an upper arm, a wrist, and an actuator that rotationally drives the wrist. The upper arm is connected to the lower arm rotatably about a first rotation axis. The wrist is connected to the upper arm rotatably about a second rotation axis perpendicular to the first rotation axis. The actuator is disposed so that a rotation axis of the actuator is perpendicular to the second rotation axis and is attached to the upper arm so as to extend in a direction of the first rotation axis. |
| US09481093B2 |
Elongated member chucking apparatus and elongated member chucking method
A case, in which an inner bottom surface is formed, and a chuck tool in which a lower surface is formed are provided. The inner bottom surface is a concave surface. The lower surface is a concave surface. An elongated member chucking apparatus changes an orientation of an elongated member inside the case to a predetermined orientation with respect to the chuck tool by sandwiching the elongated member between the inner bottom surface and the lower surface. The elongated member is held by the chuck tool in the predetermined orientation. |
| US09481087B2 |
Robot and control method thereof
A robot and a control method thereof are provided. The method includes the following steps: receiving a manual control command from a remote control device, and accumulating a duration of issuing the manual control commands; estimating an estimated moving velocity corresponding to the manual control command; detecting a surrounding environment of the robot and generating an autonomous navigation command based on the surrounding environment; determining a first weighting value associated with the manual control command based on the duration, the estimated moving velocity and the distance to obstacles; determining a second weighting value associated with the autonomous navigation command based on the first weighting value; linearly combining the manual control command and the autonomous navigation command based on the first weighting value and the second weighting value to generate a moving control command; and moving based on the moving control command. |
| US09481086B2 |
Control method for floating-base robots including generating feasible motions using time warping
A control method, and a robot controller implementing the method, is provided that adapts human motions to floating-base humanoid robots with time warping techniques. The method of modifying a set of reference motions modifies the timeline of a reference motion so as to speed up or slow down one or more of the motions or motion segments. Through the use of time warping, the velocity and acceleration profiles of the motion are changed to turn an infeasible motion into a feasible one. The optimal time warping is obtained through a generalized motion feasibility index that quantifies the feasibility of a motion considering the friction constraint as well as the center-of-pressure (CoP) constraint. Due to the use of the motion feasibility index, the proposed motion adaptation method taught herein can be applied to motions on arbitrary terrains or with any number of links in contact with the environment. |
| US09481082B1 |
Apparatus for automated maintenance of aircraft structural elements
Devices for maintaining crawler alignment on complex-shaped blades and for enabling the blade crawler to traverse over trailing edge protrusions. Using ball and socket bearings or air pads in place of alignment wheels, the crawler will be able to track along complex-geometry rotor blades, propellers and other airfoils. Using an oversized-diameter roller, a semi-flexible roller, or a dual-roller follower arrangement, the crawler will be able to traverse over trailing edge protrusions. |
| US09481080B2 |
Multispeed power tool
A tool with a transmission assembly having a reduction gearset and a speed selector. The speed selector has a member, an actuator and a shifter assembly. The member is movable between a first position, in which the member is non-rotatable, and a second position in which the member is coupled to a planet carrier of the reduction gearset for common rotation. The actuator includes a pivoting yoke and a follower that is coupled to the yoke. The follower engages the member so as to be axially movable with the follower. The shifter assembly has a selector switch, a switch fork, and a pair of springs. The selector switch is slidable between a first switch position and a second switch position. The shift fork is slidably coupled to the selector switch and receives the yoke. The springs cooperate to bias the shift fork relative to the selector switch into a neutral position. |
| US09481079B2 |
Grout removal tool
A grout removal tool incorporates a case (12) carrying a reciprocating motor (20) and having an external contoured finger grip (14). A drive shaft (28) extends from the motor to engage a chuck drive rod (30). A cooling piston (40) is concentrically carried by the drive shaft for reciprocating motion. A chuck (18) is attached to the chuck drive rod for removably constraining a carbide tipped bit (16). |
| US09481078B2 |
Nailer for hardwood flooring
A nailer is provided for securing planks to a subfloor in tight places with fasteners. A fastener ejection channel made in the nailer is formed in between a pair of first and second guide plates spacedly mounted parallel to one another. The first guide plate defines a planar inner end portion having an ovoidal slot and an outer end portion defining a transverse arcuate first flange. The second guide plate defines an arcuate second flange extending away from the first guide plate and generally parallel to the first flange. An elongated straight push rod is mounted partially nested at an inner end in the ovoidal slot. The bottom portion of the push rod is movable along the fastener ejection channel between first and second limit positions. A lengthwise notch extends along the second guide plate intermediate section and opens into the second flange and is sized and shaped to accommodate transverse passage of an outer end portion of the push rod, wherein the push rod moves rectilinearly between the first and an intermediate position thereof but the push rod outer end portion tilts laterally away from the first guide plate when moving in non-rectilinear fashion between the intermediate and second limit positions thereof. |
| US09481077B2 |
Tool stand
A selectively attachable tool stand is described. The stand can be attached to the head of a tool and enables the tool to be positioned on a work surface or the ground while maintaining a desired orientation for the tool head. The stand can also be removed or detached from the tool. The stand also supports the tool in an inclined orientation which can occur during use of the tool. The tool stand can be used with a variety of tools including manually operated crimp tools. |
| US09481073B2 |
Methods of forming polycrystalline diamond with liquid hydrocarbons and hydrates thereof
Methods of forming polycrystalline diamond include encapsulating diamond particles and a hydrocarbon substance in a canister, and subjecting the encapsulated diamond particles and hydrocarbon substance to a pressure and a temperature sufficient to form inter-granular bonds between the diamond particles. Cutting elements for use in an earth-boring tool includes a polycrystalline diamond material formed by such processes. Earth-boring tools include such cutting elements. |
| US09481072B2 |
Sanding elements replacing device
A device for replacing sanding elements of a polishing device includes a first support, a second support, a feeder assembly, a suction assembly, a first pushing assembly, a second pushing assembly, and a clamping assembly. The feeder assembly includes a receiving member configured to receive the sanding elements, and a supporting member positioned below the receiving member. The suction assembly includes a suction member configured to draw a sanding element from the receiving member, and a rotary actuator configured to rotate the suction member. The first pushing assembly is configured to receive the sanding element from the suction member and transport the sanding element to the polishing device. The clamping assembly is configured to attach an unused sanding element to, and detach a used sanding element from, a manipulator of the polishing device, and the second pushing assembly is configured to separate the sanding element from the clamping assembly. |
| US09481068B2 |
Low speed high feed grinder
A tool grinder is disclosed which includes a variable speed DC motor having an output shaft, and a cutter wheel mounted on the output shaft and having a precision coating of prone superabrasive particles. The grinder preferably further includes a motor controller for governing a rotational speed of the motor between 100 rpm and 2000 rpm. This minimizes the surface speed of the cutter wheel and the friction heat generated by contact of the workpiece with the cutter wheel. The precision coating of prone superabrasive particles minimizes rubbing contact between the cutter wheel and the workpiece during material removal from the workpiece. The cutter wheel preferably has a first cutting surface parallel to an axis of rotation of the wheel and one or more additional cutting surfaces perpendicular to the axis of rotation, at another angle to the axis of rotation, or both. |
| US09481066B2 |
Machine tool
A machine tool having a machine frame which has a stand and a machine sub-structure, a workpiece carrier arrangement which can be moved on linear guides, and a machining unit which is arranged on the stand. The machining unit can be moved along at least one coordinate axis and comprises an exchangeable cutting tool. The linear guides and the linear drives of the workpiece carrier arrangement are covered by longitudinally continuous, stationary cover elements and are thus protected against chip deposits. |
| US09481065B2 |
Telescopic protective covering
The invention relates to a protective covering comprising a plurality of substantially L-shaped protective covering segments (2, 16) comprising a cover leg (3, 17) and a support leg (4, 18) which are arranged relative to one another in such a way that they are telescopically slidable with respect to one another, wherein the cover legs (3, 17) of adjacent protective covering segments (2, 16) each come to bear on one another thus forming an overall substantially closed surface, and comprising at least one band-shaped or web-shaped flexible connecting element (5, 31) which connects the support legs (4, 18) of the protective covering segments (2, 16) with each other so as to at least transfer a tensile force. Disposed on each of the support legs (4, 18) is at least one elastic reset element (11, 32) such that said element is fastened with its first end to the support leg (4, 18) and abuts with its second end with prestressing against a section of the connecting element (5, 31) so as to urge said section in the direction of the support leg (4, 18). |
| US09481061B2 |
Apparatus, a fastening device, method and system for clamping a piece as well as a fastening clamp
Apparatus for clamping a piece, includes a frame portion adapted to be fastened to a base, a fastening clamp fitted to foe frame portion having first and second jaw components on the opposite sides and a wedge member fitted therebetween, fixing stopper. The piece is adapted to be clamped between the first jaw component of the fastening damp and the fixing stopper. An arrangement is disposed between the second jaw component of foe fastening clamp and the fixing stopper, functionally connecting these to each other, for moving the fixing stopper by way of the fastening clamp. In addition, the apparatus is related to a fastening device, a method and a system for clamping a piece as well as a fastening clamp for a fastening device. |
| US09481056B2 |
Method of making lightweight heat pipe
A method of making a lightweight heat pipe includes steps of: a) preparing a first hollow pipe and a second hollow pipe making of two different materials; b) disposing the first hollow pipe into the second hollow pipe along an axial direction of the second hollow pipe; c) making an inner wall surface of the second hollow pipe attached on an outer wall surface of the first hollow pipe to combine the first and the second hollow pipes as a pipe body of the heat pipe; and d) vacuuming an inner space of the first hollow pipe, and sealing the pipe body after working fluid is filled in the inner space of the first hollow pipe to finish the heat pipe. |
| US09481052B2 |
Methods for stripping and modifying surfaces with laser-induced ablation
A coating removal apparatus removes a coating from a surface. The apparatus has a movable scanning head and scanning optics. The scanning head is movable in one dimension, and the scanning optics adjust in two dimensions to compensate for movement of the scanning head to implement long range scanning with a uniform scanning pattern. Further, a surface roughness is determined by measuring specular and scattered reflections at various angles. For composite surfaces, the apparatus utilizes UV laser radiation and a controlled atmosphere to remove coating and alter the chemical characteristics at the surface. |
| US09481051B2 |
Wafer producing method
A method for producing a hexagonal single crystal wafer from a hexagonal single crystal ingot includes a separation start point forming step of setting the focal point of a laser beam inside the ingot at a predetermined depth from the upper surface of the ingot, which depth corresponds to the thickness of the wafer to be produced, and next applying the laser beam to the upper surface of the ingot while relatively moving the focal point and the ingot to thereby form a modified layer parallel to the upper surface and cracks extending from the modified layer along a c-plane in the ingot, thus forming a separation start point. The ingot is immersed in water after forming the separation start point in the ingot, and ultrasonic vibration is applied to the ingot to thereby separate a plate-shaped member corresponding to the wafer from the ingot. |
| US09481050B2 |
Plasma arc cutting system and persona selection process
The invention features methods and apparatuses for establishing operational settings of a plasma arc cutting system. A plasma power supply includes a user selectable control. The user selectable control enables selection of a single cutting persona that establishes at least a current, a gas pressure or gas flow rate, and an operational mode of the plasma arc cutting system. |
| US09481046B2 |
Systems and methods providing controlled AC arc welding processes
Systems and methods for providing controlled AC TIG arc welding processes is provided. In AC TIG arc welding power source embodiments, configurations of main and auxiliary bridge circuits allow for the directional switching of the output welding current through the welding output circuit path and selectively provide one or more high impedance paths to rapidly decay the arc current. The high impedance path aids in the low spatter transfer of molten metal balls from consumable to a workpiece, via an arc generated by a tungsten electrode, and further aids in the maintaining or the re-establishing of an arc between the tungsten electrode and the workpiece during welding. |
| US09481045B2 |
TIG welding system
A TIG welding system is provided including a power source having a controller in communication therewith, the controller having a memory storing at least one waveform; a welding torch including an electrode electrically connected to the controller, the electrode having a length and a diameter; an amperage input in communication with the controller and adapted to receive a user-selected welding amperage; wherein in the controller is programmed to select one of the at least one waveform based on the user-selected amperage and apply power from the power source to the electrode according to the selected at least one waveform; wherein the at least one waveform includes an arc initiation stage including at least one pulse, wherein during the arc initiation stage, the controller is configured to prevent user control of an arc current or voltage, wherein upon attaining a steady state at the user-selected welding amperage, the controller is configured to permit user control of the arc current or voltage applied to the electrode. |
| US09481038B2 |
Cutting insert having a dovetail anti-slip arrangement
A cutting insert having a dovetail anti-slip arrangement for securing the cutting insert to a tool. The cutting insert's anti-slip arrangement includes first, second and third insert abutment surfaces having dovetail portions, each of which form an external and acute dovetail angle with an insert base surface. The dovetail portions are configured with one or more geometric features related to a cutting edge geometry of the cutting insert. |
| US09481034B2 |
Surface treatment for improved bonding in bi-metallic casting
Methods of forming bi-metallic castings are provided. In one method, a metal preform of a desired base shape is provided defining a substrate surface. A natural oxide layer is removed from the substrate surface, yielding a cleaned metal preform. The method includes forming a thin metallic film on at least a portion of the substrate surface of the cleaned metal preform, and metallurgically bonding the portion of the metal preform having the metallic film with an overcast metal to form a bi-metallic casting. The metallic film promotes a metallurgical bond between the metal preform and the overcast metal. In one aspect, the metal preform may include aluminum (Al) and the metallic film may include zinc (Zn). |
| US09481033B2 |
Earth-boring tools including cutting elements with alignment features and related methods
An earth-boring tool may comprise a body having at least one blade, and at least one cutting element recess may be formed in a surface of the at least one blade. At least one cutting element may be affixed within the at least one cutting element recess. The at least one cutting element may comprise a substantially cylindrical lateral side surface configured to allow the at least one cutting element to rotate about a longitudinal axis within the at least one cutting element recess when the at least one cutting element is partially inserted into the at least one cutting element recess. The at least one cutting element may also comprise a back face comprising alignment features configured to abut complementary alignment features disposed on a back surface of the at least one cutting element recess. Methods of forming earth-boring tool bodies. |
| US09481029B2 |
Method of making a radial pattern assembly
A method of making a radial pattern assembly is disclosed. The method includes forming a hollow sprue comprising a sprue wall disposed about a longitudinal axis, the sprue wall having a thickness, a length and a periphery; a pattern disposed outwardly of the sprue wall; and an outwardly extending gate attached to and extending between an outer surface of the sprue wall and the pattern, the hollow sprue, pattern and gate each formed from a fugitive material. |
| US09481027B2 |
Blind rivet setting method
A blind rivet setting method enables a modified step approach to grip and pull multiple diameters of blind rivet mandrels to fracture, easily feed the remaining spent mandrel portion through a blind rivet tool, and collect and more efficiently dispose of substantially shortened spent mandrel portions when a blind rivet mandrel collection system is utilized. |
| US09481026B2 |
Press device with adjustment mechanism
A press device for forming a work piece includes a punch and an adjustment mechanism. The punch is configured to move along a punch stroke toward a work piece located in a punch zone below the punch. The punch is configured to engage the work piece during the punch stroke to form the work piece. The adjustment mechanism is coupled to the punch. The adjustment mechanism includes an actuator and a transfer member. The actuator is rotationally coupled to the transfer member. The transfer member is operably coupled to the punch. The actuator is configured to rotate. The transfer member converts the rotational movement of the actuator into translational movement that advances the punch linearly from a first operative position relative to the punch zone to a second operative position relative to the punch zone to adjust a bottom location of the punch along the punch stroke. |
| US09481020B2 |
Bending an edge portion of a housing panel
Bending members having slanted faces to engage folded edge portions of a housing panel, wherein the relative sliding movement between the folded edge portions and the bending members cause bending of each of the folded edge portions to an inwardly slanted angle. |
| US09481016B2 |
Methods and apparatus to combine mail streams in a binding line
Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture to combine mail streams in a binding line are disclosed. An example method includes analyzing a mailing list including a plurality of addresses. The example methods also includes associating a primary book with a first set of the addresses and associating a secondary book with a second set of the addresses. In addition, the example method includes creating multiple primary books on a production line and depositing multiple secondary books in the production line. |
| US09481014B2 |
Sieve screen
The invention relates to a sieve screen, which can be positioned in a utility machine-operated screen bucket or in a screening station maneuverable with its own actuator. As shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of screening plates (3) are spaced from each other and establish a screening surface (2), which is provided with screening slots and on top of which can be placed the material to be screened. Rotatable shafts (4) are present below the screening surface (2). The shafts (4) feature blades (5), which protrude from the shafts and extend through the screening slots to above the screening surface (2). Fraction size is adapted to be changed without removing the shafts (4), by re-grouping the blades (5) and a necessary number of the screening plates (3). The blades (5) can be grouped in such a way on the shafts (4) that at least two blades (5) are set adjacent to each other and the adjacent blades are located within the same screening slot. |
| US09481013B2 |
Combined auger and screening apparatus for screening and conveyance of granular fertilizer or the like
A combined auger conveyor and screening apparatus features an inlet hopper mounted to an auger housing adjacent an inlet end thereof, and a screen support frame disposed atop the inlet hopper and supporting a screen over an area of the inlet hopper. A screen drive mechanism is removably mounted to the auger housing, coupled to the screen support frame and operable to drive oscillatory motion of the screen. An angle adjustment mechanism is operable to vary a position of ground wheels relative to the auger housing in order to change an inclination angle of the auger housing and screen relative to the ground. A hydraulic circuit supplying hydraulic motors for both the auger and the screen drive mechanism comprises a control valve operable to adjust an oscillatory speed of the screen support frame. |
| US09481010B2 |
Method for producing gas barrier film
Provided is a method for producing a gas barrier film having a base and a gas barrier layer being arranged on the base, containing a step (1) for preparing a base having a moisture content of 0.01 to 1% by mass, a step (2) for obtaining a coating film by coating a coating liquid containing polysilazane onto the base, and a step (3) for forming a gas barrier layer by irradiating the coating film with vacuum ultraviolet rays. |
| US09481005B2 |
Liquid dispensing applicator with radial locking system
A liquid dispensing applicator can include a container body containing a liquid and having an end with a projection; a head component cooperating with the container body and having a slot for receiving the projection; the container body and the head component being rotatable with respect to each other to enable engagement of the projection and the slot and cause breakage of the projection allowing the liquid to flow from the container body into the head component; and a radial locking system for radially locking the container body and the head component together after rotation with respect to each other. The radial locking system can include a lip-and-channel system where the lip radially slides within the channel and is retained at a far end in a fluid application position. |
| US09481001B2 |
Intermediate storage unit for the intermediate storage of objects to be painted
To provide an intermediate storage unit for the intermediate storage of objects to be painted in the form of vehicle bodies and/or parts of vehicle bodies and/or for the transport of objects to be painted in the form of vehicle bodies and/or parts of vehicle bodies from one process section of a paint shop to another process section of the paint shop, which allows the objects to be painted to also be stored in the intermediate storage unit over a lengthy period of time, e.g. during a shift change, overnight or over a weekend, without impairment to the quality of the painting of the objects to be painted, it is proposed that the intermediate storage unit is configured as a clean-room area. |
| US09480996B2 |
Fluid dispensing system with nozzle heater
A fluid dispensing system includes a first fluid supply device for supplying a first fluid, a second fluid supply device for supplying a second fluid, a first heater for heating the first fluid to a first predetermined temperature and a second heater for heating the second fluid to a second predetermined temperature. The dispensing system further includes a nozzle for dispensing the first fluid and the second fluid, the nozzle dispensing the first fluid and the second fluid in intimate contact with one another, the first and second fluids being dispensed at a dispensing temperature, and a nozzle heater, the nozzle heater maintaining the nozzle at a third predetermined temperature independent of the first and/or second predetermined temperatures. |
| US09480994B2 |
Sustainable shower
Disclosed is a shower apparatus comprising: •a housing (1, 2, 3) for an object (4); and •a plurality of set of coplanar nozzles inside said housing, the nozzles allowing for a simultaneous spray of a pressurized gas and a liquid on said object. Each set of nozzles comprises a first nozzle (7a, 7b, 7c) for spraying for spraying said gas and adjacent thereto at least one further nozzle (6a, 6b, 6c, 8a, 8b, 8c) for spraying said liquid. The axis of the nozzle for spraying said gas is arranged at an acute angle with respect to the axis of the nozzle for spraying said liquid. The nozzles are configured to provide improved cleansing in a single shower while consuming less water. |
| US09480991B2 |
Radiofrequency particle separator
An apparatus for separating a mineral from a liquid including a housing and a fluid having a mineral bearing particle and contained within the housing. The apparatus further includes a generator configured to apply a radio-frequency electromagnetic field to the mineral bearing particle. The field produces a temperature increase within a portion of the mineral bearing particle and the mineral bearing particle transfers heat into the fluid, the heated fluid imposing motion-inducing forces on the particle. |
| US09480990B2 |
Apparatus and system for a towed device powered by a tow vehicle
An apparatus and a system directed to a towed device powered by a tow vehicle. The apparatus and system include a woodchipper configured to be mounted on a towed vehicle, with the towed vehicle configured to be towed behind the tow vehicle. Additionally, a motor may be coupled to the woodchipper to provide power to the woodchipper. A power converter obtains power from the tow vehicle from a power takeoff coupled to the tow vehicle. Further, one or more power transfer lines connect the power converter with the motor to communicate motor-operating power from the power converter to the motor. |
| US09480988B2 |
Shredder
The invention relates to a shredder/document shredder for sheet-shaped material, such as paper and material of the like or similar data storage media, having a thickness sensor which protrudes at least partially into a receiving slot. According to the invention, the thickness sensor does not change its position if too much material to be shredded (for example, paper) passes into the receiving slot, but rather pivots about its rotational axis as a result of the friction with the material. A switch is actuated by way of the pivoting movement, as a result of which the electric drive of the shredder is interrupted. |
| US09480986B2 |
Image projection method and apparatus for supporting manual MALDI sample preparation
An improved deposition aid for manual sample preparation, particularly on flat MALDI sample supports, comprises a holder for a sample support with several sample sites, which is adapted to standardized sample supports for ionization with matrix-assisted laser desorption and a device which projects a two-dimensional optical image, or a suitable sequence of images, onto the sample sites. The image, or sequence of images, is constructed such that a selected sample site or group of selected sample sites is highlighted in a way which can be perceived by the human eye, at least with respect to neighboring, not-selected sample sites. The deposition aid also includes an interface for confirming the manual deposition and/or a device for the automatic detection of a manual deposition process; and a guidance system which selects a sample site or group of sample sites, and controls the device accordingly. |
| US09480980B2 |
Apparatus for producing paper-based chemical assay devices
An apparatus produces chemical assay devices from a hydrophilic substrate, hydrophobic materials, and a chemical reagent. The apparatus includes a first print zone that forms hydrophobic material in a predetermined arrangement on the hydrophilic substrate, a structure formation unit configured to enable the first layer of the hydrophobic material to penetrate the hydrophilic substrate. |
| US09480979B1 |
Cross-linked copolymers and methods thereof
Cross-linked cyclocopolymers made up of one or more quaternary ammonium salts and sulfur dioxide as monomers. One of the quaternary ammonium salts is also an aspartic acid derivative. The cross-linked copolymers include a repeating unit with multiple chelating centers that different metal ions can bind to. The cross-linked copolymers are zwitterionic or anionic, and can be in either an acidic form or a basic form. A method for removing metal ions from an aqueous sample with these cross-linked copolymers is also described. |
| US09480977B2 |
Ruthenium containing hydrosilylation catalysts and compositions containing the catalysts
A composition contains (A) a hydrosilylation reaction catalyst and (B) an aliphatically unsaturated compound having an average, per molecule, of one or more aliphatically unsaturated organic groups capable of undergoing hydrosilylation reaction. The composition capable of reacting via hydrosilylation reaction to form a reaction product, such as a silane, a gum, a gel, a rubber, or a resin. Ingredient (A) contains a metal-ligand complex that can be prepared by a method including reacting a metal precursor and a ligand. |
| US09480976B2 |
Synthesis of AEI zeolite
A transition-metal-AEI/ITE molecular sieve catalyst and mixed-template synthesis procedure are disclosed. |
| US09480974B2 |
Nano Ni—CeO2 catalyst for syngas production and its preparation thereof
The present invention relates to Nano Ni—CeO2 catalyst and its preparation thereof useful for syngas production. Particularly, the present invention relates to a process for the activation of methane at low temperature for the production of synthesis gas (mixture of CO and H2) using nanosize Ni—Ce oxide catalyst. More particularly, the present invention relates to a process for the partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas between temperature range of 450° C. to 800° C. at atmospheric pressure over Ni—CeO2 solid catalyst. The process provides a methane conversion of 20-98% with H2 to CO molar ratio of 1.6 to 2 without deactivation till 100 h. |
| US09480959B2 |
Process and apparatus for conversion of silicon tetrachloride to trichlorosilane
A process for hydrogenating chlorosilanes in a reactor, wherein at least two reactant gas streams are introduced separately from one another into a reaction zone, wherein the first reactant gas stream comprising silicon tetrachloride is conducted via a first heat exchanger unit in which it is heated and is then conducted through a heating unit which heats it to a first temperature before the first reactant gas stream reaches the reaction zone, and wherein the second reactant gas stream comprising hydrogen is heated by a second heat exchanger unit to a second temperature, wherein the first temperature is greater than the second temperature, and then introduced into the reaction zone, such that the mixing temperature of the two reactant gas streams in the reaction zone is between 850° C. and 1300° C., and said reactant gas streams react to give product gases comprising trichlorosilane and hydrogen chloride, wherein the product gases obtained in the reaction are conducted through said at least two heat exchanger units and preheat the reactant gas streams of the reaction by the countercurrent principle, wherein the flow passes first through the first heat exchanger unit and then through the second heat exchanger unit. A reactor for hydrogenating chlorosilanes, comprising two gas inlet devices through which reactant gases can be introduced separately from one another into the reactor, and at least one gas outlet device through which a product gas stream can be conducted, at least two heat exchanger units which are connected to one another and which are suitable for heating reactant gases separately from one another by means of the product gases conducted through the heat exchanger units, and a heating zone which is arranged between a first heat exchanger unit and a reaction zone and in which there is at least one heating element. |
| US09480955B2 |
Bone cement mixing and delivery system with reduced fume exposure
A system for bone cement includes a vial holder configured for receiving a vial and including a holding structure for maintaining the vial in the vial holder. The vial includes a monomer component for bone cement. A holder chamber is configured to receive and secure the vial holder. The vial holder is advanced toward a vial-breaking device for breaking the vial and releasing its contents into the holder chamber past the elastomeric seal. Once the vial holder is advanced further the elastomeric seal is deformed to form a seal and prevent fumes produced from escaping from the device. |
| US09480952B2 |
Methods for chemical reaction perforation of atomically thin materials
A method for forming a lattice with precisely sized holes includes disposing cutter molecules with species attached about the periphery of each molecule on to the lattice. The method continues with the species cutting molecular bonds of the lattice so as to form precisely sized holes in the lattice. The edges of the holes may then be functionalized. |
| US09480950B2 |
Separation membrane for membrane distillation
Disclosed is a separation membrane for membrane distillation, including a feed water side for feeding raw water and a treated water side for discharging treated water, wherein the separation membrane is provided in bent form by a support frame. |
| US09480948B2 |
Exhaust gas purifier
An exhaust gas purification catalyst apparatus, which is superior in oxidation performance of, in particular, nitrogen monoxide, among hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate components such as soot, included in exhaust gas from a lean burn engine, and combustion performance of light oil. The exhaust gas purification apparatus arranged with an oxidation catalyst (DOC) comprising a noble metal component for oxidizing carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, in particular, nitrogen monoxide among nitrogen oxides, and for combusting light oil, a catalyzed soot filter (CSF) including a noble metal component for collecting a particulate component such as soot and removing by combustion (oxidation). The oxidation catalyst (DOC) has a catalyst layer where platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd) and barium oxide (BaO) are supported on alumina (Al2O3) having a pore size of 12 to 120 nm, and ratio of platinum and palladium is 1:1 to 11:2 in weight equivalent. |
| US09480947B2 |
Variable capacity multiple-leg packed separation column
An industrial packed column for gas stream processing to remove a component by liquid absorbent contact includes: a. a plurality of packed tubular members having ends aligned in vertical parallel array to form a first bundle, b. an upper lean absorption liquid inlet and lower rich absorption liquid outlet; c. a raw gas feed inlet positioned below the packing material, connected to a raw feed gas manifold via control valves for selectively admitting the feed gas to one or more of the plurality of tubular members, d. an upper treated gas outlet, connected via valved conduit to (i) a treated gas collection manifold and (ii) the raw gas inlet of one or more of the other tubular members, and the apparatus equipped with appropriate systems so that desired portions of the treated gas stream exiting a tubular member can be passed for further treatment to at least one other tubular member in the first bundle. |
| US09480943B2 |
Filter device and filter system
A filter device for the exchange of gas between the fuel tank for liquid fuel and an environment has a chamber sealed in a fluid-tight manner. A first port leads into the chamber for fluid connection to the fuel tank. A second port into leads the chamber for fluid connection to the environment. A granular filter material is in the chamber. The chamber is designed for optionally accommodating a monolithic filter element in addition to the granular filter material. |
| US09480941B2 |
Apparatus and method for cleaning air filters
An apparatus for cleaning air filters utilizes a pressurized fluid flow, preferably air, to rotate a set of air spraying jets inside a hollow interior of a filter in order to remove particles from the filter. To ensure proper positioning of the jets in relation to the filter the present invention uses a set of plates with slots and pins, wherein the pins secure the apparatus on one end of the filter. The set of plates also at least partially blocks the flow of air out of the ends to more efficiently direct the flow of air from the jets to the filter. The jets then may be moved reciprocally along the length of the filter for cleaning purposes. |
| US09480940B2 |
Liquid filter assemblies; features; components; and, methods
Liquid filter assemblies, features, components and methods are described. In general, a liquid filter cartridge is provided which includes features that help ensure that when the assembly is serviced, the cartridge positioned within the assembly is a proper one, in proper sealing orientation, for appropriate use. Features that can be used to provide for this include: a seal on the filter cartridge that defines a seal pattern non-orthogonal to a plane perpendicular to a central axis of the filter cartridge; and, a member of a projection/receiver arrangement on the filter cartridge which is orientated to engage a portion of a liquid filter assembly, for example a liquid flow collar, to allow sealing when the cartridge is a properly positioned cartridge and a properly configured cartridge. Assembly features are described. Also, a flexible radial projection arrangement providing snap-fit interaction between a cartridge and housing is provided. Methods of assembly and use as described. |
| US09480935B2 |
Systems and methods for separating particles and/or substances from a sample fluid
Systems and methods for separating particles and/or toxins from a sample fluid. A method according to one embodiment comprises simultaneously passing a sample fluid and a buffer fluid through a chamber such that a fluidic interface is formed between the sample fluid and the buffer fluid as the fluids pass through the chamber, the sample fluid having particles of interest therein; applying a force to the fluids for urging the particles of interest to pass through the interface into the buffer fluid; and substantially separating the buffer fluid from the sample fluid. |
| US09480934B2 |
Cryopump system, and method of operating the same, and compressor unit
A cryopump system includes a cryopump configured to perform a preparatory operation including a cooldown from a room temperature to a cryogenic temperature and to perform a vacuum pumping operation at the cryogenic temperature, a compressor unit of a working gas for the cryopump, a gas line connecting the cryopump and the compressor unit, a gas volume adjuster configured to increase a quantity of the working gas in the gas line during the vacuum pumping operation in comparison with that during the preparatory operation, and a control device configured to control the compressor unit so as to provide a pressure control for the gas line. |
| US09480928B2 |
Experience ride representation apparatus and method for real-sense media service based on multi-vision
Disclosed herein are an experience ride representation apparatus and method for a real-sense media service based on a multi-vision. An experience ride representation apparatus for a real-sense media service based on a multi-vision in which a motion of a user is reflected so as to move in a plurality of screen units depending on a first signal received from the user, a second signal is transmitted to the user based on real-sense media contents reproduced on the screen unit, and metaverse contents are provided to a plurality of users when the screen unit is shared by the plurality of users. |
| US09480927B2 |
Portable terminal with music performance function and method for playing musical instruments using portable terminal
Disclosed are a portable terminal with a music performance function and a method for playing a variety of musical instruments. The method includes: selecting a particular piece of music and a particular musical instrument from the portable terminal, according to a user request, and executing a music performance mode corresponding to the selected musical instrument; detecting a first input signal input to a screen according to the selected musical instrument in the musical performance mode; determining, if the first input signal is detected, whether a second input signal for executing audio source data is detected; analyzing the first and second input signals, in association with each other; and outputting audio source data of the selected music, according to the analyzed result, via audio signals. |
| US09480923B2 |
Service providing method using on-line game, and recording media recording program for implementing the method
An approach is provided for providing a service using an on-line game capable of, maximizing effects of services associated with the on-line game, and recording media recording a program for implementing the service providing method. The service providing method may include, for example, storing, in a rendering region, game object drawing information of a game screen for the on-line game in response to a request for reproducing the game screen; hooking the rendering region to change the game object drawing information so that service object information provided from a game server is included in the game object drawing information; storing the changed game object drawing information in the rendering region; and providing the game screen by rendering the game object drawing information including the service object information stored in the rendering region. |
| US09480919B2 |
Reconfiguring reality using a reality overlay device
Virtual entities are displayed alongside real world entities in a wearable reality overlay device worn by the user. Information related to an environment proximate to the wearable device is determined. For example, a position of the wearable device may be determined, a camera may capture an image of the environment, etc. Virtual entity image information representative of an entity desired to be virtually displayed is processed based on the determined information. An image of the entity is generated based on the processed image information as a non-transparent region of a lens of the wearable device, enabling the entity to appear to be present in the environment to the user. The image of the entity may conceal a real world entity that would otherwise be visible to the user through the wearable device. Other real world entities may be visible to the user through the wearable device. |
| US09480915B2 |
Game system, server system, processing method, and information storage medium
A game system includes a game processing section that performs a process that implements a game that utilizes a moving object, the moving object moving in a game space based on operation information, a restoration processing section that performs a restoration process that restores the moving object that has reached an unable-to-continue state when it has become unable to continue to play the game that utilizes the moving object, the moving object being restored at a restoration point in the game space that has been selected by a player, and a charging section. The charging section performs a charging process that causes a charge to differ corresponding to the restoration point selected by the player. |
| US09480914B2 |
Online gaming
Technologies and implementations for providing and online gaming experience are generally disclosed. In one example, a computer-implemented method to allocate rendering tasks to resources of a server system comprise determining at least a portion of a first game world view viewable at a first game client of a plurality of game clients, receiving at least a portion of a game input from the first game client, determining a change from the first game world state to a second game world state, determining based on the second game world state, by the server system, a second game world view, determining a first render task to update the first game element and a second render task to update the second game element and allocating, the first render task to a first game element resource and the second render task to a second game element resource. |
| US09480911B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring and calibrating performances of gamers
A gaming system employs bioinformatics to improve gamer performance and enhance the gaming experience. The gaming system monitors biometrics of gamers using gaming accessories having sensors coupled to the gaming accessories (e.g., a mouse with pulse sensor). Biometrics can be used to assess a crisis or panic reaction of the gamer. The system can also assess the state of the game in real time via API feedback, and coach the player on how best to regain control. The system can also predict a gamer's loss of control by monitoring hardware statistics associated with the game, combined with gaming feedback and biometric data, and can determine how best to coach the player to correct problems. Predictive models can be used to predict a gamer's panic attack or loss of control before it occurs. When a crisis occurs, the system can automatically contact the gamer's teammates to assist the gamer. |
| US09480905B2 |
Card dealing shoe
A card dealing shoe with card reading capability for facilitating play of card games includes a control system configured to detect the existence of an alarm condition and a card restraining apparatus mounted on the elongated housing and configured for alternating between a non-restraining condition and a restraining condition, wherein the restraining condition includes activation of a physical restraint that prevents cards from being added to and removed from the card receiving or staging area in the card dealing shoe, wherein the card restraining apparatus is in communication with the control system and actuated from the non-restraining condition to the restraining condition responsive to the detection of an alarm condition. |
| US09480904B2 |
Line marking apparatus
A line marking apparatus incorporates a replaceable container (31) of line marking material. The apparatus comprises a body (3) including an opening provided with a first engaging member (21), and a replaceable container (31) for line marking material. The container comprises a base (33) and side walls (35) and is provided with an outlet (37) for the line marking material at a location remote from the base. The container is also provided in the region of the base with a second engaging member (49) adapted to co-operate with the first engaging member of the body for releasably suspending the container within the body in an inverted configuration. |
| US09480902B2 |
Fighting glove
A glove useful for mixed martial arts fighting has padded knuckles for the four non-opposed fingers, with the lower half of each of the fingers not enclosed. The palm of the glove is open, and the thumb is not covered. The glove has an inner pair of attachment straps closable across each other over the wrist, and installed over the attachment straps is a closable outer support or stability strap that wraps around the wrist. Both the attachment straps and the support strap are preferably closable through use of a hook and loop fastening means such as Velcro®. |
| US09480899B2 |
Changeup controller for ball throwing machine
Embodiments provide a ball throwing machine including a motor coupled to a rotary wheel and configured to rotate the rotary wheel at a rotational speed to throw a ball forward toward an athlete. A speed control module may be coupled to the motor and configured to rotate the rotary wheel, via the motor, at a first rotational speed during a fastball setting and a second rotational speed during a changeup setting. The speed control module may determine the second rotational speed based on the first rotational speed so that a ball thrown by the ball throwing machine will arrive in a target zone when the ball throwing machine is in the fastball setting and the changeup setting. In some embodiments, the speed control module may utilize resistive braking to transition the rotary wheel from the first rotational speed to the second rotational speed. |
| US09480898B2 |
Multipurpose putting practice device for enabling straight putting and distance practice by situation
Provided is a multipurpose putting practice device for enabling straight putting and distance practice by situation, which: enables short-distance or middle- and long-distance putting practice on flat, uphill, and downhill environments; enables a golf ball to be collected at the same place where putting is carried out through an upwardly protruding putting line during putting;improves positioning by checking whether a golf ball has gone into the hole by sound and with the naked eye so as to hit the golf ball to a target spot in a fixed direction; and forms correct putting postures, and digitizes and visualizes a plurality of green speeds such that a user can compare and figure out the plurality of green speeds and practice distance adjustment on a desired field. |
| US09480897B2 |
Holding apparatus for a net of a table-tennis table
A holding device (4) for a net (6) of a table-tennis table with two playing area leaves (1, 2) and an underframe (3), wherein the holding apparatus (4) includes two holding units (5) which can be arranged on opposite sides of the two playing area leaves (1, 2), and wherein each of the holding units (5) can be attached on at least one of the playing area leaves (1, 2) or on the substructure (3) and can hold one end of the net (6) and wherein the holding apparatus (4) includes at least one blocking means (7) which is arranged on one of the holding units (5) and, in the mounted state of the holding device (4), can be transferred into a blocking position in which it abuts against the under surfaces of the two playing area leaves (1, 2). |
| US09480893B1 |
Method and apparatus for conditioning a lacrosse stick
Provided is a lacrosse stick conditioning apparatus comprising a retainer, a lever, and a conditioning tool. The retainer may be adapted to hold a lacrosse stick in a substantially fixed position relative to the retainer. The lever may be rotatably mounted relative to the retainer at a primary axis. The lever may having one or more conditioning tool mounts, each mount being adapted for pivotable engagement of a conditioning tool, and defining a mount axis parallel to and offset from the primary axis. The conditioning tool may be rotatably engageable with any of the tool mounts and may have a conditioning tool head engaged therewith. |
| US09480892B2 |
Fastener for a golf bag
A golf bag including a body defining a housing adapted to receive one or more golf clubs, and extending between a bottom portion and a top portion. The golf bag includes a fastener coupled to the body. The fastener includes a first end coupled to the body, a second end opposite the first end, and a locking member. The golf bag also includes a first gripping member coupled to the body and a second gripping member coupled to the fastener. The first gripping member and the second gripping member are configured to receive a cart strap therebetween. |
| US09480891B2 |
Metal shaft having longitudinally varying hardness, golf shaft using the metal shaft, golf club using the metal golf shaft, method of manufacturing the metal shaft, and tempering apparatus
A metal shaft includes a hollow tube made of metal, capable of having hardness varying in a longitudinal direction of the metal shaft while preventing increase in the number of variations on a shape of the metal shaft. The tube has a hardness pattern exhibited by hardness of the tube varying in a longitudinal direction of the tube according to Young's modulus or tensile strength of the metal varying in the longitudinal direction. |
| US09480890B2 |
Golf club
A golf club 2 includes a head 4 and a shaft 6. A face 5 includes a sole s4 and a grounding member X1. The sole s4 includes a plurality of attaching portions r1. The grounding member X1 can be fixed to each of the plurality of attaching portions r1. A face angle can be varied depending on an attached position of the grounding member X1. Preferably, the golf club 2 further includes a non-grounding member X2. Preferably, the non-grounding member X2 can be fixed to each of the attaching portions r1. Preferably, attached position of the non-grounding member X2 does not influence the face angle. |
| US09480880B2 |
Golf ball with translucent cover
The present invention is directed a golf ball comprising a core and a cover and an optional intermediate layer disposed between the core and cover, wherein at least one of the core and the intermediate layer comprises any Pantone Matching System color including blue, green, yellow, pink, or orange having an L* value of about 80 or less; and wherein the cover comprises a translucent thermoset polyurethane material and an amount of pigment or dye such that the cover has any Pantone Matching System color including blue, green, yellow, pink, or orange that has an L* value of about 80 or less. The thermoset polyurethane material may be formed from an aliphatic isocyanate-based composition. |
| US09480879B1 |
Bowling ball and methods of manufacturing same utilizing one or more sacrificial molds
A bowling ball wherein one or more sacrificial molds are encapsulated in said bowling ball and methods for manufacturing same. |
| US09480877B2 |
Exercise device providing symmetry index
An exercise device comprises a flywheel, a driving assembly, a magnet, and an analysis module. The driving assembly drives the flywheel to rotate and comprises two pedals. The user drives the flywheel via the pedals. The analysis module employs an angle sensor and a hall sensor to calculate a symmetry index of the user. |
| US09480875B2 |
Abdominal exercise device with torso and leg support
An abdominal exercise device comprising a body support to support an upper body of a user, where the body support includes a back rest made up of cushioned partitions; a pair of handles attached to the back rest; a track extending from an end of the body support, where the track includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a leg support attached to the track with a sleeve, where the leg support is adjustable along the track by fastening a stopper through one of the adjustment holes; a slide extending from the sleeve, where the slide includes a plurality of adjustment holes; and a leg stabilizer attached to the slide with a sleeve, where the leg stabilizer is adjustable along the slide by fastening a stopper through one of the adjustment holes. |
| US09480867B2 |
Proportional dynamic ratio control for compressed air foam delivery
A compressed air foam delivery system includes a control unit to monitor and/or adjust components within the system so as to deliver a compressed air foam agent mixture with a desired agent:air ratio at a desired flow rate to one or more active discharges. In one embodiment, the control unit can be equipped to control one or more of a pump engine, water pump, foam delivery unit and air compressor so as to deliver and maintain the desired ratio of agent mixture at the desired flow rate. |
| US09480864B2 |
Marine based cosmetic active ingredients and use thereof
The present invention relates to a cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical active component for stimulating proteasome activity of skin cells comprising the broth obtained by inoculating a biomass of the algae, Gracilaria spp., particularly the algae, Gracilaria tikvahiae, with a yeast culture, and allowing fermentation of the biomass to produce a fermentation broth. Also described is a cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical active component for stimulating proteasome activity of skin cells comprising an extract of the algae, Gracilaria tikvahiae. The present invention also relates to topical compositions comprising as a cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical active component a ferment of the algae, Gracilaria spp., particularly the algae, Gracilaria tikvahiae, or an extract of the algae, Gracilaria tikvahiae, or a combination of both. |
| US09480861B2 |
Dosimetry for radiotherapy treatment verification
Data from a first radiation detector and a second radiation detector can be used to determine a radiation dose pattern delivered to a radiation target from a radiation source. The first radiation detector can be positioned to intercept ionizing radiation directed from the radiation source toward the radiation target before the ionizing radiation has impinged on the radiation target and the second radiation detector can be positioned to intercept the ionizing radiation after the ionizing radiation has passed through the radiation target. Methods, systems, articles of manufacture, and computer program products are described. |
| US09480859B2 |
Unfiltered radiation therapy
This is a new technique of producing high energy X-rays for radiation therapy at a patient's level. The dose delivery system uses a linear accelerator with no flattening filter. The technique improves patient radiation therapy by reducing radiation scattered to surrounding normal tissue and reducing electron contamination. It increases dose rate to shorten treatment time. The flattening filter reduces the efficiency of the beam by reducing the fluence and increasing scattered radiation. This technique involves removal of the flattening filter. It uses inverse planning to shape the dose distribution. |
| US09480857B2 |
Applicator for applying a radioactive substance to a biological tissue
An applicator for applying a radioactive substance to a biological tissue, the applicator comprising a container for receiving the radioactive substance; an application device connectable to the container, by which the substance compound can be applied to the tissue; and at least a part of a conveying device by which the radioactive substance can be supplied from the container into the application device when the application device has been connected to the container. |
| US09480856B2 |
X-ray targeted bond or compound destruction
This document provides methods, systems, and devices for inducing a decomposition reaction by directing x-rays towards a location including a particular compound. The x-rays can have an irradiation energy that corresponds to a bond distance of a bond in the particular compound in order to break that bond and induce a decomposition of that particular compound. In some cases, the particular compound is a hazardous substance or part of a hazardous substance. In some cases, the particular compound is delivered to a desired location in an organism and x-rays induce a decomposition reaction that creates a therapeutic substance (e.g., a toxin that kills cancer cells) in the location of the organism. In some cases, the particular compound decomposes to produce a reactant in a reactor apparatus (e.g., fuel cell or semiconductor fabricator). |
| US09480855B2 |
NIR/red light for lateral neuroprotection
The use of red or near infrared light upon neurons of the lumbar plexus that are in distress due to retraction-induced ischemia. The surgeon may protect nerves made ischemic in the surgery by: a) making an incision in a patient, b) inserting an access device into the patient through the incision to at least partially create a path to a spine of the patient, and c) irradiating nervous tissue adjacent the path with an amount of NIR or red light effective to provide neuroprotection. |
| US09480853B2 |
Windowing for identifying shock outcome
A system for managing care of a person receiving emergency cardiac assistance is disclosed that includes one or more capacitors for delivering a defibrillating shock to a patient; one or more electronic ports for receiving signals from sensors for obtaining indications of an electrocardiogram (ECG) for the patient; and a patient treatment module executable on one or more computer processors using code stored in non-transitory media and to provide a determination of a likelihood of success from delivering a future defibrillating shock to the person with the one or more capacitors, using (a) a mathematical transform from a time domain to a frequency domain applied to the indication of the ECG, and (b) a tapered window for identifying the portion of the indications of the ECG on which the transform is performed. |
| US09480846B2 |
Systems and methods for patient control of stimulation systems
Provided is a portable controller and associated method that provides a patient or caregiver the ability to recharge and alter the parameters of an implanted medical device, while allowing the patient substantially unobstructed mobility. To enable mobility, the controller may be worn on a belt or clothing. The controller also allows the patient to turn device stimulation on and off, check battery status, and to vary stimulation parameters within ranges that may be predefined and programmed by a clinician. The controller communicates with the medical device to retrieve information and make parameter adjustments using wireless telemetry, and it can send and receive information from several feet away from the implanted medical device. Charging of a battery contained in the implanted medical device is achieved via an inductive radio frequency link using a charge coil placed in close proximity to the medical device. |
| US09480845B2 |
Nerve stimulation device with a wearable loop antenna
A wearable medical device system having an external, necklace-shaped antenna that is sized and configured for placement about the neck of a subject, and having an implantable device with an implanted antenna that communicates with the external antenna to permit the transfer of energy and data between external and implantable components. The wearable medical device includes a control module that communicates with the implanted device via the external antenna. The implantable device includes an electrode configured to provide stimulation to a nerve. |
| US09480844B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing noise in a medical device
A method and apparatus for detecting a cardiac event in a medical device that includes sensing a cardiac signal, detecting a cardiac event in response to the sensed signal, determining whether an interval associated with the cardiac signal is less than an interval threshold, determining a noise metric in response to an interval associated with the cardiac signal being less than the interval threshold, determining whether the noise metric is greater than a noise metric threshold, and determining whether to inhibit detecting in response to determining whether an interval associated with the cardiac signal is less than the interval threshold and determining whether the noise metric is greater than the noise metric threshold. |
| US09480839B2 |
Lead delivery device and method
A lead delivery apparatus and a method of delivering a medical lead to an anatomic target site. The method includes inserting a hydraulic plug into an internal delivery lumen of a delivery shaft, and coupling a medical lead to the hydraulic plug. Hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic plug through the delivery lumen, thereby moving the hydraulic plug toward an anatomic target site, and advancing the medical lead toward the target site. |
| US09480836B2 |
Skin treatment apparatus and method
Embodiments of medical treatment including skin treatment using electrical energy, especially with the primary purpose for skin treatment for aesthetics are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US09480832B2 |
Tube verifier
There is provided a tube connector for connecting between a fluid sampling tube and a fluid analyzer, the tube connector includes an end face adapted to identify the tube connector, said end face comprising a reflecting surface having one or more reflective regions adapted to reflect light at a predetermined range of wavelengths. |
| US09480831B2 |
Vascular access port
An access port, wherein the access port may include a body having an exterior surface and a chamber defined therein, a bore defined in the body providing fluid communication between the chamber and the exterior surface, a needle in fluid communication with the chamber, a passage defined in the body providing communication between the chamber and the exterior surface, a seal secured within the passage, and an actuator in communication with the needle, configured to move the needle relative to the passage or move the passage relative to the needle. |
| US09480829B2 |
All direction stretchable dressing article associated with curable materials
An all direction stretchable dressing article is disclosed. The article includes a first surface, a second surface, at least one layer of all directions stretchable polymer, and at least one layer of fibers affixed to at least a part of the polymer layer. The article further includes at least one type of curative material embedded or associated with at least one of the polymer layer or the fiber layer. |
| US09480828B2 |
Treatment method for the inferior turbinate
Disclosed is a method comprising: creating one or more pockets within an inferior turbinate of a patient, inserting one or more it that are easily inserted into the one or more pockets, wherein the one or more implants contain one or more therapeutic compounds and the one or more implants do not need to be removed from the inferior turbinate after implantation into the one or more pockets. |
| US09480823B2 |
Perfusion dilation catheter system and methods of use
A system includes an elongate catheter having a self-expanding frame disposed at the distal end of the catheter. The frame includes a plurality of longitudinal struts defined by parallel slots. The frame may be constrained into a radially compressed configuration for delivery to a treatment site. A helical balloon is mounted about the frame. Upon release from the constraining mechanism, the frame returns to a heat-set radially expanded configuration to initiate dilation of a treatment site in a patient. Inflating the balloon around the expanded frame further expands the initial radial dilation of the site. Proximal and distal ends of the slots are unobstructed by the balloon to permit flow of a fluid through the slots and through a lumen defined by an interior surface of the balloon when the frame is in the radially expanded configuration. |
| US09480820B2 |
Apparatus and method for sensing force on a robotically controlled medical instrument
A medical system comprises a medical probe including an elongated probe body, a lumen extending within the probe body, an axially flexible section, and a push-pull member slidably disposed within the lumen. The system comprises a ditherer mechanically coupled to the member for cyclically displacing it axially back and forth within the lumen, such that the ends of the probe body are axially displaced relative to each other via the axially flexible section. The system further comprises a sensor for sensing a force axially applied to the distal end of the probe body. A method comprises introducing a medical probe into a patient, axially dithering the distal end of the medical probe back and forth relative to the proximal end of the medical probe, and sensing a force applied between tissue of the patient and the distal end of the medical probe while the distal end is axially dithered. |
| US09480818B2 |
Rotatable tip for endoscopic medical devices
Medical devices as well as methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include an elongate catheter shaft having a distal end. A tip member may be rotatably coupled to the distal end of the catheter shaft. The tip member may have a groove formed therein. The groove may extend along a portion of the circumference of the tip member. A control member may be coupled to the catheter shaft. The control member may be configured to engage the helical groove and rotate the tip member. |
| US09480817B2 |
Urinary catheter assembly
The present invention provides a urinary catheter assembly which comprises at least one urinary catheter for collecting urine from a body opening and a collecting bag connected to the catheter, in a way that a urinary flow can be established in a flow path from the catheter into the bag. The assembly further comprises a catheter package with a container and a cover. The container forms an accommodation for an insertable part of the catheter, and the cover forms a cavity for the collecting bag. The cover is releasably fixed to the container. Furthermore, the package forms an overlap in which the cavity partly covers the accommodation. |
| US09480814B2 |
Method of producing catheter tube and continuous body of the same
A method of producing a catheter tube allows a plurality of catheter tubes to be continuously produced using a common core rod, with a proximal end connecting part efficiently attached. The method involves: forming a tubular body on the core rod including an inner layer covering body and an outer layer covering body; attaching a proximal end connecting part, forming a cylindrically shaped hub to a proximal end of the catheter tube, to a radially outer side of the inner layer covering body and the outer layer covering body; severing a tubular continuous body obtained on the core rod is severed at a given position after the proximal end connecting part is attached to produce a plurality of single tubes, each of which is provided with one of the hubs; and removing the core rod from the single tube. |
| US09480812B1 |
Methodology, system, use, and benefits of neuroacoustic frequencies for assessing and improving the health and well-being of living organisms
The ANS of a subject is continuously monitored to obtain the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS) components of the autonomous nervous system while an external stimulus is applied to the subject having a frequency that sweeps across a frequency band. The stimulus may be a vibration, flickering light, or sound. The subject is determined to have entered into a state of homeostasis when the SNS component equals the PSNS component. The value of frequency that corresponds to the state of homeostasis is selected as the fundamental frequency of the subject for use in subsequent treatment protocols. |
| US09480804B2 |
Monodose nasal drug delivery system
A delivery device for delivery of a medicament to a user including a container defining a reservoir storing the medicament, a body in which the container is received, a spray nozzle arranged on one of the body and the container for receiving medicament expelled from the container, and a pusher actuatable for pushing the medicament from the container reservoir through the nozzle, said pusher being movable from a rest position to a fully activated position relative to said body in response to an actuating force. The assembly is particularly applicable to nasal syringes where it is desirable to deliver the medicament in the form of a spray. |
| US09480803B2 |
Dose counter with lockout mechanism
A medicament dispenser, in particular a metered dose inhaler, which is able to count the number of time the dispenser is activated and then disable the device, which then prevents any additional medicament from being dispensed. Additional embodiments include a medicament dispenser which are adapted to display either the number of activations that have occurred or the number of activations remaining. |
| US09480799B2 |
Retractable needle assembly utilizing a standard interface and syringe utilizing the same
An injection device including a barrel, a hollow plunger having a portion structured and arranged to move within the barrel, a needle unit, and a safety system that one of automatically causes the needle unit to retract into the plunger when the plunger reaches a substantially fully depressed position. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. |
| US09480798B2 |
Medical delivery device
Provided is a delivery device that has an initial locked position, an intermediate priming position, and a final delivery position. The device is configured such that individual dose setting and activation of delivery is prevented until a cap is removed. |
| US09480795B2 |
Sensor system for drug delivery device, drug delivery device having the same and method of using the same
A system for use with a drug delivery device includes a sensor unit and a deactivation unit operatively coupled to an output of the sensor unit and to a drug-retaining region of the drug delivery device, wherein the drug-retaining region contains a drug. The sensor unit is configured to detect a characteristic of a local environment and generate an output corresponding to a value of the detected characteristic. The deactivation unit is configured to render the drug ineffective when the output of the sensor unit satisfies a predetermined condition. |
| US09480789B2 |
Method and sedation delivery system including a pump assembly and a co-formulation of first and second drugs
A drug delivery system includes drug containers, a pump assembly, a sensor, and a controller. The drug containers each contain a different predetermined drug co-formulation of predetermined first and second drugs, wherein the first drug has a sedative effect. The sensor is adapted to sense a variable associated with the drug containers and output a different drug co-formulation identification signal associated with each of the drug containers based on the sensed variable. The controller is programmed to identify the drug co-formulation for the drug container operatively connected to the pump assembly from the associated identification signal and to control the pump assembly to deliver the drug co-formulation of the one drug container to the patient during a medical procedure according to a corresponding drug delivery algorithm which is different for each of the drug containers. A method is also disclosed which uses the drug delivery system. |
| US09480788B2 |
Medical injection systems and methods related to user activated control devices
A control module for a medical injection system generates an injection control signal based on sensed internal pressure of a user activated control device, for example, in response to an applied external force that causes the sensed internal pressure to increase from a baseline pressure, and continues to sense the internal pressure of the device, following release of the applied external force, so that, if the sensed internal pressure drops below the baseline pressure, the control module may generate a notification. Thus, an operator of the system may monitor internal pressure of the control device for a drop below the baseline pressure, and then, if such a drop is detected, inspect the control device for leaks and reconnect, replace or repair the control device, or simply reconnect or replace the control device. |
| US09480784B2 |
Dialysis system with balance chamber prime and rinseback
A dialysis system includes an extracorporeal circuit, a dialysis fluid circuit including first and second balance chambers, a fresh dialysis fluid pump in fluid communication with first and second fresh compartments of the first and second balance chambers, respectively. The first and second fresh compartments are in fluid communication with a fresh dialysate fluid inlet of the dialyzer, and a used dialysis fluid pump is in fluid communication with first and second spent compartments of the first and second balance chambers, respectively. The system is configured to run a blood rinseback sequence in which (i) at least one of the fresh used dialysis fluid pumps is operated to pump dialysis fluid through the dialyzer and into the extracorporeal circuit and (ii) the blood pump is operated to push blood back to a patient connected to the extracorporeal circuit. |
| US09480779B2 |
Implant and method for producing the same
The present invention relates to an implant, in particular an intraluminal endoprosthesis, the body of which comprises at least predominantly a material with iron as the main constituent. For accelerating the degradation, the material comprises sulfur as first minor constituent with a concentration of more than 0.2% by weight and not more than 1% by weight, preferably not more than 0.5% by weight, and comprises as second minor constituent at least one element of the group which comprises calcium, manganese and magnesium. Furthermore, a method for producing such an implant is described. |
| US09480777B2 |
Multipurpose implant with modeled surface structure for soft tissue reconstruction
Embodiments of a multi-purpose implant for use in surgery, such as for reconstruction of soft tissues, are disclosed. In some embodiments, the implant includes elastic polymer film made from a suitable biologically compatible polymer. The implant also includes a reinforcement element formed from a polyurethane mesh or other strong and stable woven or unwoven synthetic material. The reinforcement element can be fully enclosed by the film so that only the film comes into contact with the organs and tissues. Anti-adhesive properties or control over implant's integration into a body can be determined by the preset surface structure of the implant, while physical and mechanical properties, such as strength and elasticity of the implant, are obtained by virtue of reinforcement element geometry. |
| US09480772B2 |
Gel sheet containing lipid peptide gelator and polymeric compound
There is provided a gel sheet that has high biocompatibility and safety, can contain both a hydrophilic medicinal agent and a hydrophobic medicinal agent, and provides an excellent feel in use during the application onto human skin or others. A gel sheet including: a lipid peptide gelator including a low molecular weight lipid peptide having a molecular weight of 1,000 or less or a pharmaceutically usable salt of the lipid peptide; and a polymeric compound, wherein the polymeric compound is included in an amount of more than 1% (w/w) and less than 50% (w/w) with respect to the total mass of the gel sheet. |
| US09480770B2 |
Methods for preparation of medical dressing containing antimicrobial agent
A medical dressing containing an antimicrobial agent is disclosed. The medical dressing comprises a layered fabric comprising an inner layer of substantially hydrophilic material, an outer layer of substantially hydrophobic material on both sides of the inner layer; and an antimicrobial agent. The antimicrobial agent may be releasably impregnated into the fabric, coated on said fabric or a combination thereof. The antimicrobial agent may be a biguanide, such as polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB). The fabric inner layer material may be substantially a cellulose fiber, preferably substantially rayon, and the fabric outer layer material may be substantially polyester, e.g., a combination of textile matrix grade polyester fiber and amorphous binder grade polyester fiber. The fabric is preferably treated with an aqueous solution of surfactant and PHMB to have about 1500-3500 ppm of extractable PHMB. |
| US09480767B1 |
Removable cartridge and cap assembly for an air treatment appliance
An air treatment appliance is provided which includes an appliance housing and a removable cartridge received therein. The removable cartridge includes a receptacle containing a liquid compound to be aerosolized within an interior thereof and a cap assembly coupled to the receptacle. The cap assembly includes a cap, a venturi insert, and a base attached together without welds or separate fasteners to define an air inlet chamber on one side of the venturi insert, a venturi outlet passage on the other side of the venturi insert in fluid communication with the interior of the receptacle, and an aerosol outlet chamber partitioned from the interior of the receptacle by the base and in fluid communication with an outlet of the cap through which aerosolized compound generated by the venturi insert is discharged during operation. |
| US09480766B2 |
Photocatalytic devices and systems
Novel photocatalytic devices are disclosed, that utilize ultrathin titania based photocatalytic materials formed on optical elements with high transmissivity, high reflectivity or scattering characteristics, or on high surface area or high porosity open cell materials. The disclosure includes methods to fabricate such devices, including MOCVD and ALD. The disclosure also includes photocatalytic systems that are either standalone or combined with general illumination (lighting) utility, and which may incorporate passive fluid exchange, user configurable photocatalytic optical elements, photocatalytic illumination achieved either by the general illumination light source, dedicated blue or UV light sources, or combinations thereof, and operating methodologies for combined photocatalytic and lighting systems. The disclosure also includes photocatalytic materials incorporated on the surface of packaged LEDs, LED lamps and LED luminaires, with photocatalytic materials incorporated on optically useful luminaire surfaces or on the surface of the remote phosphor. The disclosure also includes ultrathin photocatalytic materials incorporated on surfaces to affect antibacterial and antiviral properties. |
| US09480753B2 |
FGF21 derivatives with albumin binder A-B-C-D-E- and their use
The present invention relates to Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21), more in particular to derivatives of FGF21 compounds having an albumin binder of the formula A-B-C-D-E- covalently attached. The invention also relates to novel FGF21 analogues, as well as to the pharmaceutical use of these FGF21 derivatives and analogues, in particular for the treatment of diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and/or Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The derivatives of the invention are protracted, e.g. capable of maintaining a low blood glucose level for a longer period of time, capable of increasing the in vivo half-life of FGF21, and/or result in a lower clearance of FGF21. The derivatives of the invention are preferably furthermore of an improved oxidative stability. |
| US09480751B2 |
Albumin binding probes and drug conjugates thereof
The present invention provides a long chain fatty acid (LCFA)-like albumin-binding probe/ligand containing no hydrolysable bond and having an enhanced associating affinity with human serum albumin, which upon conjugation with an amino- or mercapto-containing short-lived drug and administration of the conjugate, significantly prolongs the life time of said drug without substantially interfering with its pharmacological activity. The invention further provides conjugates of said probe with amino- or mercapto-containing drugs, as well as pharmaceutical compositions and uses thereof. |
| US09480748B2 |
Mucoadhesive particulate formulation for inducing antigen-specific immune tolerance
The present disclosure relates to a mucoadhesive composition, adapted for preventing and/or treating a pathological reaction of the immune system of an individual, by inducing a specific tolerance towards at least one antigen involved in said pathological reaction, comprising chitosan particles loaded with said at least one antigen involved in the pathological reaction, wherein the size of the loaded chitosan particles is of more than 800 nm. |
| US09480747B2 |
Class of anti-adhesion hydrogels with healing aspects
Disclosed are hydrogels polymerized with a biofunctional moiety, biodegradable and permanent, designed to be implantable in a mammalian body and intended to block or mitigate the formation of tissue adhesions. The hydrogels of the present invention are characterized by comprising four structural elements: a) a polymeric backbone which defines the overall polymeric morphology, b) linkage groups, c) side chains, and d) biofunctional end groups. The hydrophobicity of the various structural elements are chosen to reduce tissue adhesion and enhance the biofunctional aspect of the end groups. The morphology of these polymers are typically of high molecular weight and have shape to encourage entanglement. Useful structures include branching chains, comb or brush, and dendritic morphologies. |
| US09480745B2 |
Targeted treatment of anerobic cancer
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical cocktail and methods of treatment involving said cocktail, in particular, a combination of effective amounts of a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, in combination with effective amounts of an angiogenesis inhibitor, including a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor such as bevacizumab for the treatment of cancer. In other embodiments, it relates to compositions and methods of treating cancer involving effective amounts of a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating cancer (eliminating the tumor, shrinking the tumor, prolonging the life of the patient, increasing quality of life by decreasing the grade of adverse events seen with other cancer treatments, and/or preventing/reducing the likelihood of the tumor's metastases) are additional aspects of the present invention. In addition, the present invention may be used to favorably impact the therapeutic result of patients who have not responded to alternative, traditional anti-cancer therapy. |
| US09480743B2 |
Pharmaceutical formulation comprising a biopharmaceutical drug
The present invention is related to a pharmaceutical formulation comprising a biopharmaceutical drug, said composition further comprising at least one mono- or dicarboxylic acid with a backbone of 2-6 C-Atoms, or at least one salt thereof. |
| US09480741B2 |
Anti-leukocyte recruitment therapy for the treatment of seizures and epilepsy
Methods are provided for the prevention and treatment of seizures and epilepsy. It is shown herein that leukocyte recruitment plays a key role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Treatment with an agent that inhibits leukocyte recruitment has therapeutic and preventative effects in blocking recurrent seizures and epilepsy. |
| US09480740B2 |
Synthetic glucopyranosyl lipid adjuvants
Compounds, particularly, glucopyranosyl lipid adjuvant (GLA) compounds, having the following structure (I) are provided: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, are as defined herein. Pharmaceutical compositions, vaccine compositions, and related methods for inducing or enhancing immune responses, are also provided. |
| US09480739B2 |
Bovine virus vaccines that are liquid stable
The present invention discloses liquid stable bovine vaccines that comprise a live attenuated virus, and a sugar alcohol. The present invention also discloses the manufacture of such vaccines and methods of protecting an animal by administration of such vaccines. |
| US09480738B2 |
Recombinant modified vaccinia virus ankara (MVA) respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine
Provided herein are recombinant modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) strains as improved vaccines against infection with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV virus) and to related products, methods and uses. Specifically, provided herein are genetically engineered recombinant MVA vectors comprising at least one nucleotide sequence encoding an antigenic determinant of an RSV membrane glycoprotein and at least one nucleotide sequence encoding an antigenic determinant of an RSV nucleocapsid protein. Also provided herein are products, methods and uses thereof, e.g., suitable to affect an immune response in a subject, or suitable to diagnose an RSV infection, as well as to determine whether a subject is at risk of recurrent RSV infection. |
| US09480730B2 |
Method and apparatus for preparing single donor thrombin serum
A method for preparing thrombin serum, the method comprising obtaining blood fluid sample, contacting a first aliquot of the blood fluid with a procoagulant agent to form prothrombinase enzyme complex bound to the surface of the procoagulant agent so as to obtain an activated procoagulant agent that may be stored. The activated procoagulant agent may then be contacted with a second aliquot of the blood fluid containing prothrombin so as to obtain thrombin serum, which may be extracted and contacted with fibrinogen to obtain fibrin. |
| US09480726B2 |
Leukotoxin E/D as a new anti-inflammatory agent and microbicide
The present invention relates to methods for preventing or treating Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, inflammatory conditions, and graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD) in a subject. Therapeutic compositions of the present invention comprise Leukocidin E (LukE) and/or D proteins or polypeptides. The invention further relates to methods of treating Staphylococcus aureus infection by administering a composition comprising a CCR5 antagonist or any molecule that blocks LukE/D interaction with CCR5+ cells in an amount effective to treat the S. aureus infection in the subject. |
| US09480725B2 |
Fermented wheat germ proteins (FWGP) for the treatment of cancer
The present invention provides compositions comprising the component of fermented wheat germ extract (“FWGE”) active in reducing, inhibiting or preventing the proliferation of cancer cells and/or tumors, and methods of making and using such compositions. The active component from FWGE comprises polypeptides having a molecular weight in the range of about 5-100 kiloDaltons (kD), for example, a molecular weight in the range of about 12-50 kD. Exemplary polypeptides from FWGE determined to be active in reducing, inhibiting or preventing the proliferation of cancer cells and/or tumors are listed in Table 1. |
| US09480720B1 |
Treating damaged dermal or mucosal tissue with a whole, leech saliva extract
Methods are provided for isolating and using a whole-saliva leech extract. The methods can include feeding a phagostimulatory agent to a leech; inducing a regurgitation in the leech, the inducing including placing the leech in an environment having a temperature of less than about 0° C.; and, collecting an unrefined, whole saliva in the regurgitation of the cooled leech. The methods can include revitalizing the leech by warming it at a temperature ranging from about 5° C. to about 40° C. Stable, lyophilized, whole-saliva extracts of a leech are also provided, the extract having a stable activity when stored for use at a temperature below about −20° C., the extract maintaining at least 70% of the activity for at least 6 months. The extracts can be used to treat solid tumors, treat liquid tumors, treat diabetes, treat a viral disease, treat a parasitic disease, treat an antibacterial disease, or serve as an anti-oxidant. |
| US09480716B2 |
Serum fraction of platelet-rich fibrin
The invention provides for a method of preparing an isolated serum fraction of platelet rich fibrin (PRF), comprising the steps of a. providing platelet rich plasma (PRP) without the addition of an anticoagulant; b. clotting the PRP to obtain a coagel of PRF; and c. separating the coagel to isolate the serum fraction which comprises an activated platelet releasate; and further provides for the isolated serum fraction obtained by such method, and its medical use. |
| US09480710B2 |
Compositions and methods for treatment of osteoporosis and other indications
The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for treatment of subjects having or at risk of osteoporosis or other conditions. In some cases, the composition may include nitric oxide. The nitric oxide may be present within a first phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, the lecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other vesicles containing nitric oxide. The composition can take the form of a gel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc., that can be rubbed or sprayed onto a suitable portion of the skin. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kits including such compositions, or the like. |
| US09480707B2 |
Methods and systems for treatment of inflammatory diseases with nitric oxide
The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for treatment of various inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory dermatoses and other conditions, e.g., using nitric oxide. Examples of such dermatoses include psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis. The nitric oxide may be present within a first phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, the lecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other vesicles containing nitric oxide. The composition can take the form of a gel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc., that can be rubbed or sprayed onto the skin, e.g., onto an inflammation site, or other suitable portion of the skin. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kits including such compositions, or the like. |
| US09480704B2 |
Topically administered strontium-containing complexes for treating pain, pruritis and inflammation
The present disclosure consists of therapeutically-active compositions that combine strontium with at least one additional molecules that increase the overall therapeutic potency of the combination beyond the potency of any of the separate constituents. Specifically, the combinations described herein perform two important functions; (1) they increase the ability of topically-applied strontium to inhibit both acute sensory irritation (e.g., pruritus and pain), redness, swelling and inflammation (collectively defined for purposes of this description, “irritation”) and the chronic irritation that is characteristic of and contributes to the development and maintenance of painful or pruritic neuropathic conditions; and (2) they decrease the strontium activated pathways that are known to enhance the development and maintenance of pain, pruritis and neuropathic conditions. |
| US09480700B2 |
Therapy-enhancing glucan
This invention provides a composition comprising an effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing efficacy of antibodies. This invention further provides the above compositions and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. This invention also provides a method for treating a subject with cancer comprising administrating the above-described composition to the subject. This invention provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing efficacy of vaccines. This invention also provides a method of treating a subject comprising administrating the above pharmaceutical composition to the subject. This invention provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing efficacy of natural antibodies. This invention provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing host immunity. This invention also provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing the action of an agent in preventing tissue rejection. |
| US09480699B2 |
Compositions and methods for the diagnosis and therapy of BCL2-associated cancers
Provided are methods and compositions for the treatment of cancers associated with overexpression of a BCL2 gene and/or gene product in a subject, and methods and compositions for the improvement of anti-cancer therapy, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Also provided are methods for determining the efficacy of a cancer therapy in a subject, methods for diagnosing cancer, methods for assessing patient prognosis, and methods for inducing apoptosis of a cell. |
| US09480697B2 |
Edible energy composition
The disclosure relates to an edible energy composition that includes a methylated xanthine, a choline derivative and a flavorant. |
| US09480690B2 |
High-strength testosterone undecanoate compositions
The present disclosure is drawn to pharmaceutical compositions and oral dosage capsules containing testosterone undecanoate, as well as related methods. The capsule includes a capsule shell and a capsule fill. The capsule fill can include a solubilizer and about 14 wt % to about 35 wt % testosterone undecanoate based on the total capsule fill. The oral dosage capsule is such that when a single oral administration to a male subject of one or more capsules with a total testosterone undecanoate daily dose of about 350 mg to about 650 mg it provides a ratio of serum testosterone Cmax to serum testosterone Cave of about 2.7 or less. In yet another embodiment, a method for providing a serum concentration of testosterone within a target serum testosterone concentration Cave range for a male subject is provided. |
| US09480689B1 |
Pheromone composition to stimulate reproduction in female suids and methods of use
The present disclosure provides for compositions and methods of stimulating reproductive behavior and reproductive success and productivity in a suid, such as pigs. The composition may comprise at least one steroid hormone and a heterocyclic aromatic compound. The method comprises administering the pheromone composition to the suid for a period of time. |
| US09480688B2 |
Pheromone compositions and their use to modify behavior in different vertebrate species
A composition comprising Androstenone is described for the modification of undesirable or harmful stress-related behaviors or other behaviors or physiology in a variety of vertebrate species, as well as methods of using the compositions in vertebrates from a species different than the species in which the Androstenone is a naturally occurring pheromone. |
| US09480687B2 |
Pyrazine derivatives and uses thereof in renal monitoring
The present invention relates to pyrazine derivatives such as those represented by Formulas I and II below. X1 to X4 of the compounds of Formulas I and II may be characterized as electron withdrawing groups. In contrast, Y1 to Y4 of the compounds of Formulas I and II may be characterized as electron donating groups. Pyrazine derivatives of the present invention may be utilized in assessing renal function. In particular, an effective amount of a pyrazine derivative of the invention may be administered into a body of a patient. The pyrazine derivative that is in the body may be exposed to visible and/or infrared light to cause spectral energy to emanate from the pyrazine derivative. This emanating spectral energy may be detected and utilized to determine renal function of the patient. |
| US09480685B2 |
Abuse-resistant controlled-release opioid dosage form
Abuse-resistant, controlled release opioid tablets are a combination containing an opioid antagonist such as naloxone at a level above that needed to suppress the euphoric effect of the opioid, if the combination were crushed to break the controlled release properties causing the opioid and opioid antagonist to be released as a immediate release product as a single dose. The controlled release nature of the table prevents the accumulation of orally effective amounts of opioid antagonist when taken normally. The opioid antagonist is contained in a controlled-release matrix and released, over time, with the opioid. |
| US09480683B2 |
Method of inhibiting mutant C-kit
The present invention includes a method of reducing or inhibiting the kinase activity of C-KIT mutant tyrosine kinase activity in a cell or a subject, and the use of such compound for treating mutant C-KIT driven cell proliferative disorder(s) in a subject related to using a compound of the present invention: or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. |
| US09480681B2 |
Controlled release formulations of nisoldipine
Controlled release oral dosage formulations containing calcium channel blocker and processes for preparation thereof, are provided for once a day treatment. The active agent is preferably a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, such as nisoldipine. In one embodiment, the formulation provides controlled release of micronized nisoldipine with one or more pH independent release controlling polymers. The controlled release matrix formulation is advantageous and can be prepared by a simple, economically viable process as compared to complex core-coat prior-art versions. |
| US09480680B2 |
Stable pharmaceutical composition of clopidogrel free base for oral and parenteral delivery
The present disclosure provides ready-to-use, oil/water emulsion compositions with mean droplet size (intensity-average, m) of 100-500 nm, wherein the oil phase comprises clopidogrel free base dispersed in pharmaceutical acceptable oil(s). The emulsion uses clopidogrel free base or premix of clopidogrel free base in oil(s) as the starting materials and may also contain one or more excipients such as surfactant and or co-surfactant, osmotic agent, pH adjustment agent, antioxidant, preservative, sweetener, and/or suspending agent, etc. The emulsion formulations and method of manufacturing significantly improves the stability of clopidogrel over other aqueous based formulations (such as cyclodextrin-based formulations and emulsion made using clopidogrel salt as the starting materials) with respect to chiral degradation, hydrolytic, and thermal degradation. Ready-to-use emulsion compositions, which can be administered orally or parentally as a single high dose with up to 300 mg of clopidogrel dose, can be prepared and stored at room temperature for at least 19 weeks or at refrigeration temperature for at least 1 year. The compositions will provide rapid therapeutic action as anti-platelet agent for patient under emergence and intense care or who cannot swallow tablet dosage form. |
| US09480679B2 |
Methods for treating malaria, tuberculosis and MAC diseases
Described herein are formulations and methods for treating diseases caused by infectious pathogens, including mycobacterium avium complex, mycobacterium tuberculosis, Nocardia, Plasmodium falcium, and Plasmodium berghei. |
| US09480677B2 |
Enantiomers of spiro-oxindole compounds and their uses as therapeutic agents
This invention is directed to the (S)-enantiomer of the compound of formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable solvate or prodrug thereof. This (S)-enantiomer is useful for the treatment of diseases or conditions, such as pain, which are ameliorated or alleviated by the modulation of voltage-gated sodium channels. |
| US09480662B1 |
Compositions and methods for topical tamoxifen citrate therapy
The present invention provides topical compositions and methods for administering tamoxifen citrate while minimizing the incidence and or severity of adverse drug experiences associated with tamoxifen therapy. In one aspect, these compositions and methods provide a lower plasma concentration of tamoxifen metabolites, such as 4-hydroxytamoxifen and N-desmethyltamoxifen, which is presumed to be contributing at least in part to some of the adverse drug experiences, while maintaining sufficient tamoxifen as the sole active agent to benefit a subject with tamoxifen therapy. |
| US09480658B2 |
Modulation of synaptic maintenance
C1q is shown to be expressed in neurons, where it acts as a signal for synapse elimination. Methods are provided for protecting or treating an individual suffering from adverse effects of synapse loss. These findings have broad implications for a variety of clinical conditions, including treating and preventing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. |
| US09480649B2 |
Lipid microparticle growth factor formulations
The present invention is directed to novel formulations and methods for the improved delivery and administration of hydrophobic therapeutic compounds that are substantially insoluble and/or susceptible to precipitation in aqueous solution at physiological pH, including, e.g., growth and differentiation factor-5 and related proteins. Many therapeutic compounds are hydrophobic at physiological pH levels. |
| US09480646B2 |
Sustained release siRNA for ocular drug delivery
The present invention provides an ocular implant of siRNA complexed with a transfection agent such as cationic lipids and short cell penetration peptides, wherein the complex is associated with a biocompatible polymer. The biocompatible polymer includes a polymeric matrix configured to release the complex into the eye of a patient at therapeutic levels for a time sufficient to treat an ocular condition or disease. |
| US09480645B2 |
Omega-3 oil containing ophthalmic emulsions
Disclosed herein are non-irritating ophthalmic emulsion compositions useful for treating ocular disorders including dry eye. More specifically, the ophthalmic compositions disclosed herein combine a high HLB surfactant and a low HLB surfactant together with an omega-3 fatty acid-containing oil having non-polar aliphatic side chains to form a therapeutic non-irritating eye drop. |
| US09480644B2 |
Nasal drug products and methods of their use
Drug products adapted for nasal delivery, comprising a pre-primed device filled with a pharmaceutical composition comprising an opioid receptor antagonist, are provided. Methods of treating opioid overdose or its symptoms with the inventive drug products are also provided. |
| US09480639B2 |
Method for extracting phenolic compounds from olive fruit water and preparation of an extract titrated with olive and grape polyphenols
The present invention relates to a method for extracting phenolic compounds with low molecular weights from olive fruit water; the invention also relates to compositions enriched with phenolic compounds including at least 40% of dry matter, said dry matter consisting of at least 30% hydroxytyrosol; the invention also relates to a method for drying said compositions by spraying using grape polyphenol extracts as a drying medium as well as to powders titrated with phenolic compounds of olives and grapes obtained after drying. |
| US09480638B2 |
Cosmetic composition containing extracts of Adenophora triphylla var. japonica Hara, Angelica tenuissima and medicinal herbs
Disclosed herein is a cosmetic composition containing, as an active ingredient, a mixture of extracts of honey-roasted Adenophora triphylla var. japonica Hara and honey-roasted Angelica tenuissima Nakai, processed using a medicinal herb processing technique, and of extracts of medicinal herbs such as Lycium chinense Mill or Paeonia suffruticosa, and thus shows excellent antioxidant and skin-moisturizing effects. |
| US09480634B2 |
Cosmetic compositions
A cosmetic composition comprising a safe and effective amount of a skin care active; a safe and effective amount of a skin lightening agent; a safe and effective amount of bisabolol; and a safe and effective amount of a glycerol ether of aliphatic alcohol, wherein the ratio of bisabolol to glycerol ether of aliphatic alcohol is from 2:1 to 1:15. |
| US09480631B2 |
Shelf stable capsules
A capsule slurry including at least one coacervated capsule and at least 10 wt % humectant is disclosed. The humectant may be sorbitol, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, xylitol, erythritol and/or betaine. |
| US09480627B2 |
Long term bacteriostatic compounds and their use in restorative dental materials
Example embodiments of the present invention utilize long term anti-microbial/bacteriostatic compounds that are dispersed throughout a tooth restoration material as a means to reduce or eliminate recurrent decay between the tooth restoration material and tooth structure. More specifically, the present invention utilizes metals, metal oxides, and metal salts, insoluble bacteriostatic organic compounds, soluble bacteriostatic organic compounds, and organometallic compounds as long term anti-microbial/bacteriostatic compounds that are dispersed throughout the tooth restoration material as a means to reduce or eliminate recurrent decay between the tooth restoration material and tooth structure. |
| US09480623B2 |
Pre-assembled fluid transfer arrangement
The present invention relates to a medical device (1, 100) comprising a first container (10, 110) holding a first medium and defining a general axis, a second container (20, 120) holding a second medium, and fluid connection means (50, 150) for establishing fluid connection between the first container (10, 110) and the second container (20, 120), the fluid connection means (50, 150) being arranged at least partially between the first container (10, 110) and the second container (20, 120). The device further comprises a cover receiving portion (42, 42) and a cover (4, 104) removably mounted thereon to shield at least an operable portion of the first container (10, 110). The cover (4, 104) is operatively coupled with the fluid connection means (50, 150) and configured to cause a relative converging motion between at least one of the first container (10, 110) and the fluid connection means (50, 150) and the second container (20, 120) and the fluid connection means (50, 150) in response to a dismounting of the cover (4, 104) from the cover receiving portion (42, 142). |
| US09480622B1 |
Medical device safety holder
The present invention provides a medical safety device for holding a container. The medical safety device is used to hold the container while extracting liquid by a syringe from the container. The medical safety device includes a main body having an opening for an interior. The interior has a retention space configured for retaining a container. In addition, the main body includes a plunger having a retention surface configured for contacting and retaining a container in the retention space. The plunger slides up and down within the retention space. Two handles are affixed to opposing sides of the main body. The plunger and retention surface applies force to the container positioned within the retention space sufficient to hold the container in place within the retention space. The plunger may be biased down into the retention space by a spring attached to the plunger. |
| US09480621B2 |
Medical instrument
A medical instrument configured to cover at least a mouth section of a medical container that includes a container body with the mouth section at a distal end and a sealing member that seals the mouth section, includes: a cap comprising a cylindrical body; an adapter; and a proximal-end side structure body. The medical device is configured such that, when screw-engagement between a second cap-side screw-engaged portion and a proximal-end side screw-engaged portion is released by rotating the cap around a center axis, the adapter moves in the proximal-end direction while being prevented from rotating by a guide portion, thereby allowing an adapter-side screw-engaged portion to be detached from a first cap-side screw-engaged portion, and further allowing a hollow needle to penetrate the sealing member so that an inside of the container body communicates with an outside via the hollow needle. |
| US09480618B2 |
Portable active pneumatically powered ankle-foot orthosis
A portable active fluid-powered ankle foot orthosis. A lower leg mount and a foot bed are pivotally coupled at or proximate to an ankle position. A fluid powered rotary actuator is configured to receive power from a wearable fluid power source and provide controlled force and resistance to aid or inhibit relative rotation of the foot bed and the lower leg mount. An integral controller is provided for receiving data from sensors and controlling the fluid powered rotary actuator to actively assist gait of a user. |
| US09480616B2 |
Surgical table with pivotable femoral support
A femoral support system includes a plate configured to support the pelvis of a patient on a table. In addition, the system includes a femoral support pivotally coupled to the plate and configured to support the thigh of the patient. |
| US09480615B2 |
Transport carriage for transport of a patient support and/or an operating table column of an operating table
A transport carriage for transport for transport of a patient support and/or an operating table column of an operating table includes a chassis which is connectable with the patient support and/or with the operating table column. The chassis includes a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam arranged at a distance thereto. The first and second longitudinal beams form a fork-shaped opening. At least one castor which is pivotable about a swiveling axis is arranged at each longitudinal beam forming the fork-shaped opening. The transport carriage includes at least one delimiting unit for delimiting the swiveling movement of at least one of the castors about its swiveling axis. This delimitation can be automatically revoked upon lifting the base of the operating table. |
| US09480614B2 |
Hip distraction
A hip distractor includes a pair of distractor members and a support configured to be fastened to a surgical table. The support includes at least two mounts for coupling to a pair of joints that couple the distractor members to the support. Another hip distractor includes a pair of distractor assemblies that are configured to apply a distraction load to a patient. Each of the assemblies includes a joint for coupling the corresponding assembly to a surgical table. The joint permits vertical and horizontal angular adjustment of the corresponding assembly. A method of distracting a hip includes coupling a patient's legs to a pair of distractor assemblies and simultaneously adjusting a vertical angle and a horizontal angle of at least one of the distractor assemblies. |
| US09480613B1 |
Patient support system
A rectangular first sheet has a right side, a wrong side, and side edges. A pair of vertical straps are fabricated of an essentially inextensible strapping cord. Selective stitching couples each vertical strap to the wrong side of the first sheet with each vertical strap extending beyond the first sheet and parallel with and spaced a distance from an adjacent side edge. A pair of horizontal straps are fabricated of an essentially inextensible strapping cord. Additional selective stitching couples each horizontal strap to the wrong side of the first sheet with each end of each horizontal strap extending beyond the first sheet. A loop is formed at each end of each strap to create handles. A second sheet is in a rectangular configuration. Peripheral stitching couples the first sheet and the second sheet with the straps between the sheets. |
| US09480611B2 |
Absorbent article having a fastening system
A method of manufacturing an absorbent article including a fastening system having a primary fastening system and a secondary fastening system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method can include providing an absorbent assembly, providing a web of primary second fastening component material, and providing a carrier web including a secondary first fastening component material. The method can further include coupling the carrier web to the web of primary second fastening component material to form a composite web, cutting the composite web to form a discrete composite web component, and coupling the discrete composite web component to the outer cover of the absorbent assembly, with the discrete composite web component forming the primary second fastening component of the primary fastening system and the at least one secondary first fastening component of the secondary fastening system. |
| US09480607B2 |
Pants-type wearing article
A pants-type wearing article in which at least a central segment of a crotch region has a desired degree of flexibility and a portion of a crotch region close to a front waist region has a desired degree of tensile strength. The front and rear waist regions and at least a portion of the crotch region close to the front waist region define a multilayer zone composed of a base sheet and a front waist sheet layered with each other and a central segment of the crotch region defines a monolayer zone formed of the base sheet alone. The multilayer zone includes corners each surrounded by a boundary, an inner end of the front waist region, a joint region in which a liquid-absorbent structure is bonded to a chassis and a concave lateral edge of the crotch region and the boundary extends across the joint region. |
| US09480605B2 |
Device for extracting dried nasal mucus or earwax
A device for removing mucus (dried or wet) from a nostril of a subject or for removing earwax (dry or wet) from an ear canal of a subject includes a handle portion or grip portion to facilitate manipulation of the device, at least one of a bowl or a loop at an end of the handle portion, and a stop located between the handle portion and the bowl or loop. The bowl or loop is sized and configured for insertion into a nostril or an ear canal of the subject, and the stop is sized to prevent insertion of the stop into the nostril or ear canal and to limit the extent that the bowl or loop can be inserted into the nostril or ear canal, thereby reducing or eliminating the potential for accidental injury or extreme discomfort to the subject during use. |
| US09480603B2 |
Systems and methods for laser correction of astigmatism incident with lens replacement surgery
A nomogram, a method for determining how to cut a cornea to produce a particular vision correction, and a system and method for determining how to make a vision correction when a precision cutting tool is being used as opposed to the performance of hand cuts. In a further embodiment, measurement of astigmatism to be corrected, calculation of the nomogram, and the actual cutting are mostly or completely automated eliminating human error from the system. |
| US09480597B2 |
Apparatus for intraocular injection
Described is an apparatus for intraocular injection comprising a body adapted to accommodate a syringe having a needle, an outer sleeve telescopically coupled to the body, and at least two arms hingedly coupled to the outer sleeve. Each of the arms comprises a medial portion adapted to encase at least a portion of the needle. When the body moves distally relative 10 to said outer sleeve, the body engages the arms separating the medial portions. |
| US09480591B2 |
Adjustable limb protective assembly
An adjustable limb protective assembly has a main body, a first covering frame and a second covering frame. The main body has a first extending arm, a second extending arm, two holding bases, two operating elements and a jointing connector. Each extending arm has a connecting board. The holding bases are respectively connected to the extending arms adjacent the connecting boards. The operating elements are respectively and securely mounted on the connecting boards, and each one of the operating elements has an operating mount and an operating stem. The jointing connector is connected to the extending arms. The first covering frame is connected to the first extending arm and has a first supporting arm and a first covering base. The second covering frame is connected to the second extending arm and has a second supporting arm and a second covering base. |
| US09480584B2 |
Medical device
Novel devices and methods for implanting medical stents are provided. A novel apparatus, which may be in a first compressed position, may be inserted into the artery, such as by being positioned over a catheter. The apparatus may be expanded to a second position. In one embodiment, the apparatus is configured to expand away in two substantially opposing directions along a second axis away from the longitudinal axis. The second axis may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The apparatus may include markers that are detectable to determine the orientation of the catheter or the apparatus and/or assist in the determination of the type or size of stent to utilize. |
| US09480582B2 |
System and method for conscious sensory feedback
A system for conscious sensory feedback for a body extremity without sensation or a body extremity prosthesis is disclosed, as well as methods for conscious sensory feedback based on said system; a glove, a sock and a body extremity prosthesis comprising said system; and use of the system. |
| US09480581B2 |
Method of digitally constructing a prosthesis
A prosthetic limb and process to digitally construct a prosthetic limb which includes first, digitally producing a modified mold of a residual limb via 3d scanners and software; constructing a test socket from the digitally modified mold and be equipped with an alignable system; accurately scanning the test socket, along with finalized alignment that has been recorded and adjusted by a certified practitioner to provide a 3-D Image of the finalized prosthetic alignment; transferring the finalized digital alignment of the test socket to the finalized digitally modified mold; once the modified model has received the transferred alignment, fabricating the type of hookup in the socket; i.e., plug fit, four hole, support drop lock, or any other type of industry standard connection or accommodation via basic 3D software; and once the desired prosthetic attachment is finalized, sending finished file to a 3-D printer to produce the definitive prosthetic device. |
| US09480574B2 |
Spinal fusion implants and devices and methods for deploying such implants
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue. The devices and methods may include insertion of first and second elongated members into the space between two tissue layers, with an augmenting elongated member inserted therebetween to form a distraction device between the tissues to be distracted. The distraction device defines a generally annular configuration, with a locking member secured to one of the elongated members at a plurality of locations to maintain the distraction device in the generally annular configuration. The augmenting elongated member may be shorter than the first and second elongated members such that a window is defined between the proximal and distal ends of the augmenting elongated member when the distraction device and the first and second elongated members are in the generally annular configuration. Bone graft material or bone filler may be introduced into the interior of the distraction device through the window. |
| US09480573B2 |
Expandable interbody spacer
The present invention relates to devices and methods for treating one or more damaged, diseased, or traumatized portions of the spine, including intervertebral discs, to reduce or eliminate associated back pain. In one or more embodiments, the present invention relates to an expandable interbody spacer. The expandable interbody spacer may comprise a first jointed arm comprising a plurality of links pivotally coupled end to end. The expandable interbody spacer further may comprise a second jointed arm comprising a plurality of links pivotally coupled end to end. The first jointed arm and the second jointed arm may be interconnected at a proximal end of the expandable interbody spacer. The first jointed arm and the second jointed arm may be interconnected at a distal end of the expandable interbody spacer. |
| US09480566B2 |
Tool with a groove useful for implanting a penile prosthetic cylinder
A tool for implanting an inflatable penile prosthetic cylinder includes a barrel having a solid central portion and a groove formed in an exterior side surface of the barrel between a first convex curved exterior surface and a second convex curved exterior surface of the barrel. The groove extends to and forms an opening at the distal end of the barrel and forms a cavity extending into the barrel from the exterior side surface toward the solid central portion. The cavity has a first gap dimension measured at the exterior side surface that is smaller than a second gap dimension measured inboard relative to the exterior side surface of the barrel. |
| US09480564B2 |
Methods and apparatus for percutaneous aortic valve replacement
A delivery system and method for percutaneous aortic valve (PAV) replacement and apparatus used therein. A temporary aortic valve including a reversibly expandable occluder surrounds a central catheter mechanism. The temporary valve is positioned within the ascending aorta, just above and downstream from the coronary ostia. The occluder is configured such that, when fully expanded against the aortic wall, gaps are left that promote continuous coronary perfusion during the cardiac cycle. The temporary valve substitutes for the function of the native aortic valve during its replacement. The native aortic valve is next dilated, and then ablated through deployment of low profile, elongated, sequentially delivered stents. The stent(s) displace the native tissues and remain within the aortic annulus to receive and provide a structure for retaining the PAV. The PAV is delivered, positioned and deployed within the stent(s) at the aortic annulus with precision and relative ease. |
| US09480563B2 |
Valve holder with leaflet protection
An implantation device for a prosthetic heart valve includes a valve holder for maintaining the prosthetic heart valve in a closed configuration and at least one protective sheet coupled to the valve holder, the at least one protective sheet being configured to cover a leaflet of the heart valve during implantation. |
| US09480558B2 |
Transcatheter valve having reduced seam exposure
A transcatheter valve having an expandable frame and a collapsible multi-portion skirt within the frame are provided with seams between the portions of the skirt that are located to cooperate with features of the frame and thereby reduce the exposure of the seams. |
| US09480556B2 |
Replacement prosthetic heart valve, system and method of implant
A prosthetic heart valve for functionally replacing a previously implanted prosthetic heart valve is disclosed. The prosthetic heart valve includes a collapsible support structure with leaflets and anchors mounted to the support structure. The support structure also includes an inflow end and an outflow end. The anchors include a radially outwardly extending first anchor proximate to the inflow end and a radially outwardly extending second anchor proximate to the outflow end. The first anchor includes a first configuration and the second anchor includes a second configuration where the first configuration is different than the second configuration. The previously implanted prosthetic heart valve serves as a platform for securement of the prosthetic heart valve to the patient's native tissue. |
| US09480551B2 |
Implantable tissue connector
An implantable tissue connector comprises a conduit and at least one bulge extending outwardly from the conduit's outer surface in a circumferential direction. At least one blocking ring loosely fitting over the outer surface with a clearance between the outer surface and the blocking ring is provided for mounting tubular living tissue within the clearance. The blocking ring has an inner diameter which is sized relative to an outer diameter of the bulge to prevent the blocking ring from slipping over the bulge when living tissue is mounted within the clearance. During implantation, the conduit is inserted into the tubular part of living tissue and over the bulge. Then, the blocking ring is pushed over the free end of the living tissue against the bulge. The living tissue is secured to the conduit with a self-enhancing effect when the tissue tends to be pulled off of the conduit. |
| US09480549B2 |
Multi-layer tissue patches
Embodiments of the present invention encompass anti-adhesion wound dressings including patches made from amnion tissue obtained from human birth tissue. Exemplary amnion patches can be fabricated by folding a section of amnion over on itself with the epithelial layer on the outside of the folded patch and the fibroblast layer on the inside of the folded patch. Optionally, individual amnion tissue pieces can be sandwiched together to provide a multi-layer patch. Sufficient pressure is applied to the layered amnion to cause adherence between opposing faces of the fibroblast layers. The pressed fibroblast layers provide mechanical strength to hold the amnion patch together with the epithelial layers on the outsides of the amnion patch. |
| US09480547B2 |
Reinforcement device with dissolvable layer and its use
A reinforcement device for reinforcing tissues having one or more structural deficiencies includes a longitudinally-extending reinforcing layer for treating the structural deficiency, a plurality of spiked naps distributed across the reinforcing layer and projecting therefrom for adhering to the tissue, and a dissolvable matrix layer covering at least a portion of the reinforcing layer and a portion of the plurality of spiked naps. The matrix layer increases the time before the spiked naps substantially adhere to the tissue, thereby allowing the practitioner additional time to position the reinforcement device. |
| US09480546B2 |
Hysteropexy mesh apparatuses and methods
The invention describes embodiments of apparatuses and methods of using a hysteropexy mesh. |
| US09480544B2 |
Dental furnace
The invention relates to a dental furnace comprising a firing hood equipped with a heating device that is movably supported for the opening and closing of the dental furnace relative to a base intended for receiving a dental restoration part, and further comprising a heat detection device that is directed towards an area above the base, in particular towards one or more dental restoration parts, and further comprising a control or regulating device for the dental furnace that is coupled to the heat detection device, wherein the heat detection device is configured as a thermal imaging camera (30) which is directed towards the area above the base while the firing hood (12) is partially or completely opened, and which feeds an at least two-dimensional image in the form of a matrix of the one or more inserted dental restoration parts (60) to the control or regulating device and/or to a muffle (26) that is intended for the generation of the dental restoration parts (60). |
| US09480542B2 |
Jig for bite alignment in dentistry and bite registration method using the same
A jig for bite alignment in dentistry enables to achieve precise bite registration without using the wax rim, and a bite registration method and a manufacture method of dentures using the jig for bite alignment. Using the jig for bite alignment in dentistry provided with the bite material fixing portion in which the bite material is arranged for recording the occlusal position of teeth and with the implant connecting portion for attaching and detaching the implant arranged in oral cavity, the implant connecting portion is mounted on the implant buried in the alveolar bones of an oral cavity to record the occlusal position of teeth through the bite material arranged in the bite material fixing portion. |
| US09480541B2 |
Self-ligating orthodontic brackets
The present invention employs a self-ligating orthodontic bracket comprising a body having a pair of laterally spaced gingival tie wings and a pair of laterally spaced occlusal tie wings, the gingival and occlusal tie wings projecting from a labial surface of the body; an arch wire slot extending mesially-distally across the body and between the gingival and occlusal tie wings to accommodate an arch wire; a free-sliding, controlled-locking, or pivoting clip wherein the clip allows placement and removal of the arch wire when in the open position and prevents the displacement of the arch wire from the bracket member when in the closed position. |
| US09480539B2 |
Viewing system and viewing method for assisting user in carrying out surgery by identifying a target image
A viewing system includes a detector of electromagnetic radiation (EMR); and a control system connected to receive signals from the detector, and configured to identify an image locator, disposed within a field of view of the detector in use, and select for detection by the detector the image locator or an image located by the image locator. A viewing method includes detecting electromagnetic radiation from an image locator disposed within a field of view of a detector; identifying the image locator with a control system; and displaying the image locator or an image located by the image locator on one or more displays. |
| US09480538B2 |
Dental treating apparatus
The present invention is directed to a dental treating apparatus including: a hand piece; a power source (micro motor); a driving unit (motor driver); and a controller. The driving unit drives the cutting tool so as to be switchable between first driving in which the cutting tool is driven clockwise and second driving in which the cutting tool is driven counterclockwise. When a rotation direction in which the cutting tool cuts an object to be cut is defined as normal rotation and a rotation direction opposite to the normal rotation is defined as reverse rotation, the controller sets the first driving as driving for the normal rotation when a first cutting tool rotated clockwise is held on the head unit, and sets the second driving as the driving for the normal rotation when a second cutting tool rotated counterclockwise is held on the head unit. |
| US09480537B2 |
Self positioning tracheal tube clearance mechanism using a collar
A device for cleaning the interior wall of a catheter has a cleaning lumen and a non-inflatable removal element comprising a sliding collar that has a first location as the cleaning lumen advances and a second location as the cleaning lumen retracts within the catheter. A sliding collar has a first position when unconstrained and a second position when within the catheter. The removal element self-positions the device concentrically within the catheter. Suction is desirably applied to the cleaning lumen during use. |
| US09480531B2 |
Active device for positioning a surgical instrument and a surgical robotic system comprising this device
The present invention relates to an active positioning device for a surgical instrument arranged on a robot arm, comprising a carrier plate (3, 33), which can be connected with a robot arm (1, 31), a port mechanism (4, 34), which is arranged on carrier plate (3, 33) and intended as entry point into the interior of a body, at least one guide device (6, 36, 59) for insertion of a surgical instrument (8, 38, 61) into the body, whereby the shaft of surgical (8, 38, 61) instrument extends through guide device (6, 36, 59) and whereby guide device (6, 36, 59) is variably connected to port mechanism (4, 34) via a compensating element (5, 35) and an adjustment device (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67) for guide device (6, 36, 59) opposite port mechanism (4, 34), which is arranged on carrier plate (3, 33) and/or port mechanism (4, 34) on the one hand and guide device (6, 36, 59) on the other hand, in such a way that the shaft of surgical instrument (8, 38, 61) is movable both in x-direction and y-direction in relation to the starting position, in which the longitudinal extension of the surgical instrument runs parallel to the longitudinal extension of port mechanism (4, 34). |
| US09480528B2 |
Devices and methods for cooling microwave antennas
Devices and methods for cooling microwave antennas are disclosed herein. The cooling systems can be used with various types of microwave antennas. One variation generally comprises a handle portion with an elongate outer jacket extending from the handle portion. A microwave antenna is positioned within the handle and outer jacket such that cooling fluid pumped into the handle comes into contact directly along a portion of the length, or a majority of the length, or the entire length of the antenna to allow for direct convective cooling. Other variations include cooling sheaths which form defined cooling channels around a portion of the antenna. Yet another variation includes passively-cooled systems which utilize expandable balloons to urge tissue away from the surface of the microwave antenna as well as cooling sheaths which are cooled through endothermic chemical reactions. Furthermore, the microwave antennas themselves can have cooling lumens integrated directly therethrough. |
| US09480526B2 |
Microwave coaptive surgical sealing tool
A coaptive surgical sealing tool may be similar to an ordinary hemostat with long (50, 60, 70 or 80 mm) thin jaws for sliding into the liver parenchyma, without tearing the larger blood vessels. The jaws are spring loaded and are designed for uniform compression, and to avoid closing too quickly. The jaws are capable of sealing a 50, 60, 70 or 80 mm sealing length, in a single bite, although it can also seal shorter lengths as well. The tool can be used with existing ablative therapy microwave generators. The tool may be provided with irrigation and/or suction. |
| US09480525B2 |
High-density electrode-based medical device system
A medical device system is disclosed including a high-density arrangement of transducers, which may be configured to ablate, stimulate, or sense characteristics of tissue inside a bodily cavity, such as an intra-cardiac cavity. High-density arrangements of transducers may be achieved, at least in part, by overlapping elongate members on which the transducers are located, and varying sizes, shapes, or both of the transducers, especially in view of the overlapping of the elongate members. Also, the high-density arrangements of transducers may be achieved, at least in part, by including one or more recessed portions in an elongate member in order to expose one or more transducers on an underlying elongate member in a region adjacent an elongate-member-overlap region. |
| US09480523B2 |
Systems and methods for phase predictive impedance loss model calibration and compensation
The systems and methods of the present disclosure calibrate impedance loss model parameters associated with an electrosurgical system and compensate for impedance losses in an electrosurgical system using the calibrated impedance loss model parameters. A computer system stores voltage and current sensor data for different test loads and calculates impedance values for each test load. The computer system predicts a phase value for each test load using a respective load impedance value. The computer system back calculates impedance loss model parameters based upon the voltage and current sensor data, the predicted phase values, and the impedance values of the test loads. During operation, the electrosurgical device senses a voltage and a current, predicts a phase value based upon the sensed voltage and current, and calculates metrics at the tissue site based upon the sensed voltage and current, the predicted phase value, and the impedance loss model parameters. |
| US09480522B2 |
Apparatus for performing an electrosurgical procedure
A surgical instrument is provided and includes a housing having a shaft. An end effector assembly is operatively connected to a distal end of the shaft and has a pair of first and second jaw members that are movable relative to one another. A drive assembly operably couples to a handle assembly associated with the housing and is configured to impart movement of a respective jaw member when the handle assembly is actuated. A spring component operably associated with each of the jaw members is configured to provide a sealing force at the jaw members. |
| US09480520B2 |
Surgical instrument and method
A surgical instrument includes a lock including an inner surface defining a cavity and a locking surface. A holding element is positioned within the cavity and includes an inner surface defining a passageway. A longitudinal element is positioned within the passageway and the cavity. The surgical instrument includes a first orientation in which a distal end of the holding element is spaced apart from the locking surface and the longitudinal element is translatable relative to the holding element and a second orientation in which the distal end of the holding element engages the locking surface and the longitudinal element is fixed relative to the holding element. Systems and methods are disclosed. |
| US09480517B2 |
Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank, shank, friction fit retainer, winged insert and low profile edge lock
A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. |
| US09480514B2 |
Cable tie L-pin
A device for treating a bone includes (a) an elongate body sized and shaped for insertion into a bone and extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the elongate body including a channel extending therethrough and a coating along an outer surface thereof, the coating adapted to absorb a selected frequency of light such that, when the selected frequency of light is applied thereto, portions of the coating melt to form a mass; and (b) a first anchor member slidably mountable over the elongate body and movable therealong from a first position at the proximal end of the elongate body to a second position adjacent a bone into which the elongate body has been inserted to cooperate with the mass to fix the elongate body to the bone. |
| US09480513B2 |
Clamping element for setting a bone fracture as well as modular fixation device comprising same and method for producing same
Disclosed is a clamping element for setting a bone fracture. The element comprises a closed contoured body which has a substantially hollow cross-section and is enclosed by a peripheral wall. The contoured body has two opposite receiving portions at the end faces thereof, the receiving portions being intended to receive fixing elements which can be pushed through the body, and has two lateral flanks having angled portions. The peripheral wall of the contoured body is resiliently deformable at least in sections, in particular in the region of the receiving portions on the end faces of same and in the region of the lateral angled portions. A defined resilient behavior of the clamping element can be impressed via the angled portions in such a way that a predetermined tension can be generated between the receiving portions. Also disclosed are a method for producing the clamping element and a setting device for using said clamping element. |
| US09480512B2 |
Volar fixation system with fixed-angle multi-hole drill guide
A volar fixation system includes a plate intended to be positioned against the volar side of the radial bone. The plate includes holes having a predefined axis along which fasteners can be received and locked relative to the plate. A guide is provided that seats on the plate to guide a drill in axial alignment with the holes in plate. |
| US09480511B2 |
Blade fixation for ankle fusion and arthroplasty
Systems for lower extremity fusion and arthroplasty include fusion spacers, bone plates, and articular prostheses fixed to bone by blade anchors. Examples are shown for anterior, lateral, and medial approaches. |
| US09480508B2 |
Osteosynthesis device
An osteosynthesis device that is used, in particular, for securing joint fragments and for the temporary splinting of toes, more particularly for treating hammer toes or other malalignments of toes. The device comprises a pin with the center axis and the length. The pin consists largely of a bioresorbable material. The pin has at least in one section of the length a non-circular cross-section that is orthogonal to the center axis and has a radius of curvature. |
| US09480506B2 |
Compression device for interlocking compression nailing systems and method of use
A compression device and method for interlocking compression nailing systems provide a compression force onto fracture site and a bone fixed between proximal and distal parts of intramedullary nail to prevent stress shielding and improve healing. The compression device having pre-assembled components of set screw, elastic component, distal cap and connector screw are rotated. After nail insertion, the nail is fixed to the bone fragments by inserting the fasteners into distal bores and proximal slot. The compression device is inserted within the bore of the nail. The set screw is screwed to move elastic component and distal cap to push the proximal bone fragment distally. Distal cap overlies on fastener screw shaft to spread compression forces in fastener screw surface to prevent stress concentration. After fracture gap minimization, the set screw is screwed further to compress elastic component to provide desired compression force. |
| US09480505B2 |
Bi-planar persuader
Surgical instruments for spinal surgery. More specifically, a bi-planar rod persuader for urging a spinal rod into a screw, and methods regarding the same. The bi-planar rod persuader may include an implant holder, which may also include a holding sleeve. A securing foot may be attached to the distal end of the holding sleeve, and the holding sleeve may also include a threaded opening at the proximal end for receiving a stem that drives the securing foot between a first position and second position. The implant holder may also include a threaded part to engage a reduction knob. A handle assembly may also be provided, which may include two pivotally attached arms. A rod hook may be connected to one of the arms and a guide attached to the other of the arms. |
| US09480501B2 |
Modular pedicle screw
The present disclosure relates, in some embodiments, to spinal fixation systems that may comprise a bone screw, a body, and a pressure cap. A bone screw may comprise a head at a proximal end, a bone connection element at a distal end, and an external protrusion on a head of a bone screw. A body may comprise a proximal end, a distal end, a mounting rod receiving channel at a proximal end, and a bone screw head receiving channel at a distal end. A portion of the mounting rod receiving channel may be operable to receive a compression element. A pressure cap may comprise a proximal end, distal end, and an internal recess on a distal end. An internal recess may be configured to mate with an external protrusion of a bone screw so as to limit the movement of a bone screw. |
| US09480498B1 |
Tissue cutter
A tissue cutter includes a housing, a blade, a pivot, and a blade spring. The housing is shaped so as to define a channel that has proximal and distal openings and a central longitudinal axis, and is shaped for slidable disposition therein of a hollow tubular element having a tapered distal portion. The blade which extends alongside the central longitudinal axis, and defines a sharp cutting surface that reaches a distal-most point of the blade and faces away from the central longitudinal axis. The pivot couples the blade to the housing such that the blade is rotatable with respect to the housing around a pivot point of the blade. The blade spring is arranged to apply a force to the blade that pushes a distal portion of the blade against the tapered distal portion of the hollow tubular element when the blade is positioned alongside the tapered distal portion. |
| US09480494B2 |
Helically advancing constriction crossing mechanism and wire guide positioning method for performing percutaneous vascular procedures
A vascular procedure includes sliding a constriction crossing mechanism over a wire guide having a tip positioned at a proximal side of a constriction, and rotating a sheath of the mechanism about an axis relative another sheath of the mechanism. The method further includes helically engaging the sheaths, and guiding an intraluminal treatment device into or past the constriction. The mechanism includes a first sheath and a second sheath, and a tip coupled with the first sheath. The mechanism further includes a helical coupling between the first and second sheaths, which is configured to convert a torque on one of the sheaths to an axial force on the other of the sheaths for crossing a vascular constriction with the tip. An anchoring mechanism coupled with one of the sheaths includes a deployed state resisting displacement of the second sheath within a vascular structure of a patient. |
| US09480488B2 |
Snap-lock for drill sleeve
A device for drilling a hole in bone and for inserting bone screws into the drilled hole is provided. The device comprises a trocar, drill sleeve and protection sleeve in a telescopically nested configuration. The drill sleeve and protection sleeve may have an axial locking feature that allows the two pieces to be handled together as a unit by preventing inadvertent separation. The axial locking feature may comprise an integral annular ridge provided on one sleeve that cooperates with an annular groove provided on the other sleeve. One sleeve may also have at least one slot allowing the locking feature to be disengaged prior to separation of the sleeves. The sleeves may be easily separated with one hand by the user by the application of an axial separation force between a pair of flanges provided with the sleeves, and by a radial compression force applied to at least a portion of the drill sleeve. |
| US09480486B2 |
Joint replacement spacers
Devices and methods are disclosed for joint replacement. |
| US09480482B2 |
Method of assembling and positioning a femoral orthopaedic surgical instrument
A method for performing an orthopedic surgical procedure on a femur includes attaching a proximal end of an intramedullary adaptor to an intramedullary orthopedic surgical instrument, securing a distal end of an intramedullary adaptor to a base cutting block, inserting the intramedullary orthopedic surgical instrument into a medullary canal using the base cutting block, and positioning the base cutting block on a distal end of the femur. |
| US09480477B2 |
Apparatus for applying surgical clips
An apparatus for applying surgical clips has a body portion housing a clip stack and a pair of jaws supported at a distal end of the body portion. The body portion includes a camming member, a clip follower and a lockout member having a plurality of stop members. The lockout member is movable from a first position in slidable relation to the camming member to a second position interlocked with the camming member. The camming member has at least one notch, and in a second position the lockout member has at least one of the stop members positioned to interface with the at least one notch. The engagement between the stop member and the notch limits distal movement of the camming member. The clip follower actuates the lockout member when the clip follower advances to a predetermined clip in the clip stack. |
| US09480473B2 |
Knotless suture, and kit containing same
The present invention relates to a suture which is firmly maintained and fixed to an operation site to stably sustain suturing or lifting effects for a long time. More specifically, the present invention provides a suture having a conic or pyramidal shape with a cut top, wherein a suture supporter comprising a communication hole penetrating the both ends is provided at one end. The suture support can have one or more portions which are cut vertically from a lower end at a lower end portion having a larger diameter between the both ends, or a part of the lower end can be removed so as to form one or more gaps formed from the end at a wall of the end portion. |
| US09480465B2 |
Organism paracentesis device and method thereof
An organism paracentesis device comprises a first tube member and a second tube member. The first tube member comprises an injection tube filled with a medicament, a piston and a first syringe needle. The second tube member comprises a sampling tube and a second syringe needle. Both ends of the second syringe needle are in the form of syringe needle. Using one end of the second syringe needle to penetrate a cover of the sampling tube which is vacuumed, such that the second syringe needle's the other end which is penetrating into an organism will extract a sample from the organism because of the vacuumed sampling tube. The medicament filled in the injection tube is ejected both when the first and second syringe needles are penetrating into and pulled out of the organism, so as to avoid the cells of sampled organism being spread to other places. |
| US09480463B2 |
Multi-button biopsy device
A handheld biopsy device comprises a needle, cutter, and body. The cutter is movable relative to the needle to sever tissue protruding into a transverse aperture of the needle. The body includes a cutter actuation mechanism, at least two trigger buttons, and a control module. The biopsy device is configured such that the at least two trigger buttons are selectively enabled and disabled. A selectively enabled trigger button is operable to activate the cutter actuation mechanism. A selectively disabled trigger button is not operable to activate the cutter activation mechanism. The enabled trigger button may be selected electronically, such that the control module receives a user's button selection input and enables or disables the trigger buttons accordingly. Alternatively, the body may include movable covers to selectively cover or expose trigger buttons in accordance with the user's preference. The biopsy device may thus accommodate different operators having different gripping styles. |
| US09480462B2 |
Micropatterned textile for fluid transport
This invention includes the implementation of several unconventional droplet manipulations on a superhydrophobic-patterned surface microfluidic platform, which may be applied to automated biological analyzes and point-of-care diagnostic applications. |
| US09480460B2 |
Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic wave transmission/reception control method
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an memory, an determination unit, an instruction unit, a specifying unit, and an redetermination unit. The memory stores upper limit values of parameters for restricting the powers in display modes. The determination unit determines the powers in the modes so as not to exceed upper limit values of the parameters. The instruction unit inputs an instruction to increase/decrease the power of a specific mode. The specifying unit specifies the parameter value in the specific mode. The redetermination unit determines an upper limit value of the parameter in a mode different from the specific mode based on the upper limit value of the parameter in the specific mode and the parameter value specified by the specifying unit. |
| US09480455B2 |
Vascular access monitoring device
A vascular access monitoring device for monitoring characteristics of a skin piercing vascular access device comprising: an acoustic sensor operable to detect an acoustic emission created by flow through said vascular access device and produce an electrical signal indicative of said emission; electronics processing means for processing and monitoring said electrical signal, and to determine, by identifying a change of characteristic of said signal, the possibility that the vascular access device has become dislodged from its normal working position. |
| US09480452B2 |
Radiographic apparatus including a bending constant calculating device and a twisting constant calculation device
A first and a second accumulated value calculating units are provided which, in a location where foil shadows by grid foil strips straddle pixels, identify this location based on geometry, and calculate straddle accumulated values of the foil shadows in the identified location. Even when the foil shadows by the grid foil strips straddle the pixels due to twisting and bending of the grid foil strips, such location is identified based on geometry and the straddle accumulated values of the foil shadows in the identified location are calculated. Therefore, even when changes are made in the pitches or pixel sizes of an X-ray grid and a flat panel X-ray detector (FPD), the foil shadows will be removed based on the straddle accumulated values. As a result, the foil shadows can be removed taking twisting and bending of the grid foil strips into consideration, and in a way to accommodate X-ray grids and FPDs of various sizes. |
| US09480439B2 |
Segmentation and fracture detection in CT images
Provided is a new hierarchical methodology having a series of computational steps such as adaptive window creation, 2-D SWT application, masking, and boundary tracing is proposed. The techniques and systems are able to detect and quantify fracture as well as to generate recommendations for decision-making and treatment planning in traumatic pelvic injuries. |
| US09480433B2 |
Cuff integrity detection during inflation of an automated blood pressure device
A method for detecting cuff slippage in a blood pressure monitoring device includes starting a cuff inflation on the blood pressure monitoring device. A plurality of pressure samples is obtained when the cuff is inflating. A level of background noise is determined during the cuff inflation. The level of background noise is determined from the plurality of pressure samples. When the background noise is determined, a determination is made from the plurality of blood pressure readings whether a pressure pattern indicating cuff slippage is obtained. |
| US09480427B2 |
Lancet
The invention relates to a lancet, which has a lancet tip at a front end and which on an upper face comprises a contact surface for placing a test element thereon and at least one channel for receiving a sample, wherein an upwardly open section of the channel runs in the contact surface. According to the invention, the channel has another upwardly open channel section which runs on the upper face of the lancet in or adjacent to a surface area that is lower than the contact surface, wherein the contact surface is arranged between the lancet tip and the lower surface area. The invention further relates to a system comprising such a lancet and a test element, and to a method for transferring a liquid sample from a channel of a lancet which is designed as a groove or slot to a test element. |
| US09480426B2 |
Methods and systems for exchanging signals with medical or physiological instrumentation
A process is described for testing a biomedical property of an internal tissue of a patient. Optical energy emitted by an external source is transferred through a nail of the patient to an instrument device implanted beneath the nail. A portion of the transferred optical energy is converted to electrical power for driving components of the implanted instrument. Using the electrical power, a characteristic of the internal tissue associated with the measurement of the biomedical property is sensed and an optical signal based on the sensed characteristic is transmitted through the nail to an external data reader. |
| US09480421B2 |
Integrated introducer and transmitter assembly and methods of use
Method and apparatus for inserting at least a portion of a sensor into a patient is provided. |
| US09480417B2 |
Posture estimation device, posture estimation system, and posture estimation method
Provided is a posture estimation device with which it is possible to estimate the posture of an object having joints with a high degree of precision. A posture estimation device (100) carries out an estimation of a posture of an object on the basis of image data. An object having a plurality of sites which are connected by joints is photographed. The posture estimation device includes a reference model storage unit (140) which stores a reference model, which defines the locations of the sites, for each posture. A weighting computation unit (150) carries out weighting on the sites for each posture such that the weighting of concentrated parts is reduced. A posture estimation unit (160) estimates the posture of the object by applying the weighting and comparing the reference model with the object. |
| US09480416B2 |
Signal transmission using catheter braid wires
A probe includes an insertion tube, a magnetic field sensor, a dummy load mounted adjacent to the magnetic field sensor, and a braid. The braid includes multiple braid wires that traverse a length of the insertion tube. A first pair of the braid wires is connected across the magnetic field sensor, and a second pair of the braid wires is connected across the dummy load. |
| US09480413B2 |
Arrangement and method for determining the spatial distribution of magnetic particles
A system for determining the spatial distribution of magnetic particles in an examination area. Magnetic field generator generates a spatially inhomogeneous gradient magnetic field with at least one region with a low field strength in which the magnetization of the particles is in a state of non-saturation, whereas they are in a state of saturation in the remaining region. By an arrangement to shift the area with a low field strength within the examination area, a change in the magnetization of the magnetic particles is brought about which can be detected from outside by a detector. At least one of the magnetic field generator, the arrangement and the detector are arranged at least partially on a medical instrument. |
| US09480407B2 |
Device and method for removal of ambient noise signal from a photoplethysmograph
A device and method for removal of ambient noise signal from a photoplethysmographic measurement is provided. The method comprises obtaining a first signal waveform based on detecting light based on a first light illumination; obtaining a second signal waveform based on detecting light based on a second light illumination; tuning the first light and second light illumination such that the maximum amplitudes of the first and second signal waveforms are maximized and within a predetermined saturation range, such that ambient light interference for the first and second signal waveforms is reduced; obtaining a third signal waveform based on detecting ambient light; obtaining respective maximum and minimum values of the first and the second signal waveforms; and deriving signal values of the first and second signal waveforms with the removal of ambient noise by subtracting AC and DC average values of the third signal waveform from the first and second signals. |
| US09480404B2 |
Method for imaging biomaterial erosion in vivo
A method for imaging the erosion of a biomaterial is disclosed. More specifically, the present invention provides a method for imaging a labeled biomaterial so that the erosion of the biomaterial is measured in vivo over a period of time. A biomaterial such as, for example, a hydrogel including polyethylene glycol (PEG) is labeled with a fluorescent or bioluminescent marker. The labeled biomaterial is then employed in the construction of an implanted medical device such as, for example, an endovascular stent. Furthermore, the labeled biomaterial may be utilized to form a drug delivery system that releases a controlled amount of a drug into a local region within a patient. The erosion of the biomaterial is monitored through a noninvasive imaging method. |
| US09480403B2 |
Medical imaging system and method for generating a blended cine loop
An medical imaging system and method for generating and displaying a blended cine loop. The system and method include acquiring image data and identifying a base image sequence in the image data. The system and method include identifying at least one non-base image in the image data acquired from outside of the base image sequence and generating a blended image sequence from the base image sequence and the at least one non-base image. The system and method include displaying the blended image sequence as a blended cine loop on a display device. |
| US09480401B2 |
Indicator and analytics for sensor insertion in a continuous analyte monitoring system and related methods
The present embodiments provide systems and methods for, among others, tracking sensor insertion locations in a continuous analyte monitoring system. Data gathered from sensor sessions can be used in different ways, such as providing a user with a suggested rotation of insertion locations, correlating data from a given sensor session with sensor accuracy and/or sensor session length, and providing a user with a suggested next insertion location based upon past sensor accuracy and/or sensor session length at that location. |
| US09480399B2 |
Illumination device for an optical viewing apparatus
An illumination device for an optical viewing apparatus defines an illumination beam path and includes an illumination light source having mutually independently controllable individual light sources arranged in a first plane in a two-dimensional array. The illumination device defines an illumination beam path and includes illumination optics defining an optical axis. The illumination optics form a second plane conjugated with respect to the first plane. A diaphragm unit is arranged in the second plane. The diaphragm unit has a plurality of apertures and the apertures are assigned to corresponding ones of the individual light sources. |
| US09480397B2 |
Gaze tracking variations using visible lights or dots
Implementations of the present disclosure may include calibration techniques for systems which include eye tracking devices and display devices. The calibration techniques may involve a calibration process which utilizes a plurality of visible calibration targets that each defines a gaze point for a user. The calibration targets may include both targets output to the display device, as well as gaze points located on the eye tracking device itself. The calibration techniques may also include additional sensors on the eye tracking device to gather additional calibration information, such as a back-facing camera which captures images of the display device from the eye tracking device. Increased information regarding system setup that is useful in calibrating the eye tracking system may be obtained from the calibration process. |
| US09480393B2 |
System and method for assessing retinal functionality
A system and method for assessing the functionality of a visual system of the eye using a digital micro-mirror device (DMD) to generate a coded pattern which is illuminated by a light source. Optics project an image of the coded pattern onto the retina of the eye. Sensors detect electrical signals based on the response of the visual system to the image. One or more processors control the DMD and correlate the electrical response from the sensor with the coded DMD pattern to assess the functionality of the visual system. |
| US09480389B2 |
Connector for a dishwasher middle spray arm
A docking system includes basket and wall conduit systems. The basket conduit system includes a conduit and first and second nozzles mounted to opposite ends of the conduit. The second nozzle has a first funnel shape with a first circumference that decreases from an open end of the second nozzle towards the conduit. The wall conduit system includes front and back housings, a sliding plate, and a third nozzle. A sliding aperture is formed through a front plate of the front housing. A nozzle aperture is formed through a back plate of the back housing. The sliding plate slides within a space formed by the front housing and the back housing. The third nozzle is sized and shaped to slide within the sliding aperture and includes a generally cylindrical shape and a second funnel shape with a second circumference that decreases from the sliding plate towards the generally cylindrical shape. |
| US09480388B2 |
Household appliance having drying duct
A drying duct and a household appliance having the same. The household appliance includes a main body, a drying space placed in the main body and including an air suction hole and an air drain hole, a drying duct including at least one inside-air suction hole communicating with the air drain hole, an inside-air discharge hole communicating with the air suction hole, and an outside-air suction hole and an outside-air discharge hole communicating with the outside of the drying space, and at least one dehumidifying agent placed in the drying duct. The drying duct includes an inside-air suction path into which air inside of the drying space is suctioned, an outside-air suction path into which air outside of the drying space is suctioned, and an inside/outside air movement path communicating with the inside-air suction path and the outside-air suction path. |
| US09480381B2 |
Compact autonomous coverage robot
An autonomous coverage robot includes a chassis having forward and rearward portions and a drive system carried by the chassis. The forward portion of the chassis defines a substantially rectangular shape. The robot includes a cleaning assembly mounted on the forward portion of the chassis and a bin disposed adjacent the cleaning assembly and configured to receive debris agitated by the cleaning assembly. A bin cover is pivotally attached to a lower portion of the chassis and configured to rotate between a first, closed position providing closure of an opening defined by the bin and a second, open position providing access to the bin opening. The robot includes a body attached to the chassis and a handle disposed on an upper portion of the body. A bin cover release is actuatable from substantially near the handle. |
| US09480380B2 |
Cleaning robot and control method thereof
A cleaning robot having improved traveling performance and a method of controlling the same. The cleaning robot detects a stuck state such as a ‘jammed state’, ‘lifted state’, or ‘object-caught state’ by using a motion instruction or sensor information and quickly escapes from the stuck state caused in various traveling conditions by using a wheel structure capable of changing a total height of the cleaning robot. In addition, a degree of risk and type of the stuck state is predicted before the cleaning robot is in the stuck state so that the cleaning robot may deal with the stuck state in advance. The cleaning robot may escape from the stuck state via rapidly deceleration or quick stopping in accordance with the predicted degree of risk of the stuck state, and the cleaning robot may efficiently deal with the stuck state by using information to select an escaping method suitable for the type of the stuck state. |
| US09480375B2 |
Aeroacoustic duster
The invention disclosed herein provides for high particle removal rate and/or heat transfer from surfaces. The device removes particulate matter from a surface using a bounded vortex generated over the surface, with suction in the vortex center and jets for blowing air along the periphery. The jets are tilted in the tangential direction to induce vortex motion within the suction region. The vortex is said to be bounded because streamlines originating in the downward jets are entrained back into the central vortex. |
| US09480374B2 |
Agitator assembly for vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner comprises an agitator assembly mounted within an agitator cavity and a hair wrap inhibitor provided on the agitator assembly that is configured to prevent hair and debris from migrating into the agitator bearings and jamming or otherwise damaging the agitator assembly during operation. The hair wrap inhibitor can be a hair blocking rib extending from an end cap of the agitator assembly. |
| US09480372B1 |
Portable towelette dispenser
A portable towelette dispenser includes a liquid container comprising a liquid cavity, and a base rotationally connected to the liquid container. A stem connected to the base in rotating relation thereto, wherein the liquid container may be disposed about the stem. The base may be operative to rotate the stem relative to the liquid container via rotation of the base relative to the liquid container. A wetting configuration of the portable towelette dispenser is at least partially defined by at least partial alignment of one or more stem apertures relative to one or more wetting apertures. A sealed configuration of the portable towelette dispenser is at least partially defined by a completely non-aligned relation of the stem apertures relative to the wetting apertures. |
| US09480368B2 |
Arrangement for fastening a shelf device
The invention relates to an arrangement for fastening a shelf device for bathroom and/or shower implements, to a wall of a room that is provided with a wall coating, wherein the shelf device comprises a basis element extending substantially in a horizontal plane, at least one angled peripheral web, and at least one flange, which is arranged underneath the wall coating of the wall of the room. |
| US09480360B2 |
Device for preparing beverages and related process
A device for preparing beverages, such as coffee, via a substance contained in a cartridge (C) comprises:—a supporting structure (3); and—a cartridge-holder moving element (10) having a distal cartridge-holder portion (12), the moving element (10) being supported on the supporting structure (3) for rotation about an axis (X10) between a first angular position and a second angular position and for translation with respect to said axis (X10) between a proximal position and a distal position. A link (18) is provided, such as an oscillating arm, which constrains the cartridge-holder moving element (10) and the supporting structure (3) so that the cartridge-holder moving element (10) is mobile between a condition of loading of the cartridge (C) and a condition of preparation of the beverage as a result of simultaneous movements of rotation and translation with respect to the aforesaid axis (X10). |
| US09480359B1 |
Semi-continuous processes for creating an extract from coffee or other extractable materials
The techniques provide for a reconfigurable extraction column length based on the number of columns from a plurality of columns configured for use in an extraction apparatus. The apparatus includes a plurality of columns that each have an inlet, a central portion configured to hold extractable material during an extraction process, and an outlet. The reconfigurable extraction apparatus also includes a piping system connected to each of the plurality of columns that can selectively connect each of the plurality of columns, such that each column from the plurality of columns can be configured for an extraction process either singularly or in series or in parallel with one or more other columns from the plurality of columns, administering a solvent to one or more of the plurality of columns, and outputting the solvent after an extraction process occurs in the one or more of the plurality of columns. |
| US09480355B2 |
Undergarment organizing device and method of use
An undergarment organizing device having a frame having an inner surface and outer surface, and a first, second, and third retention member that extend outwardly away from the inner surface of the frame, the first retention member having a first undergarment support surface, the second retention member located beyond the first retention member and having a second undergarment support surface, and the third retention member being located beyond the first retention member, having a third undergarment support surface, and being slidable in a direction away from the second support surface. |
| US09480352B2 |
Utensil holding and turning device
A device attachable to a utensil that allows an individual with limited dexterity to handle the utensil and use it according to its ordinary function. The device provides a Y-shaped handle, such as that structured by a section of antler, that attaches to a utensil and provides the geometric and structural requirements necessary for the user to pick up the utensil from a flat surface, direct the utensil near the material to be manipulated, and manipulate the utensil once positioned. The Y-shaped component is curved across its height and provides a wedge engagement structure to permit holding the device with utensil to exert a force directing the utensil into the material to be manipulated, and by a combination of forces exerted by the palm and the thumb, to grasp and manipulate the device combination in order to make appropriate use of the utensil for its intended purpose. |
| US09480351B2 |
Dispensing device for dispensing a powder product
A staging hopper adapted for being inserted inside the neck of a container includes: a ceiling; a dividing wall projecting from the ceiling having a lower edge; a sloping inlet barrier wall having a rear edge; a floor merging with the barrier wall; and a front wall that extends upwardly from the floor such that a portion of the floor extends forwardly of the front wall. The rear edge of the inlet barrier wall and the top wall define an inlet barrier gap, and the lower edge of the dividing wall and the floor define an outlet barrier gap. The front wall and dividing wall define an outlet chamber. The inlet barrier gap divides an inlet chamber and a barrier chamber, and the outlet barrier gap divides the barrier chamber and the outlet chamber. |
| US09480347B2 |
Jewelry display hanger with cable tie
A jewelry display hanger is provided that includes a hook, a body connected to a housing by a neck and a cable tie or a twist tie. The hook extends from the first end of the body and the neck extends from the second end. The housing is elongated with first and second ends and a passage extending therebetween. The elongated housing is connected to the body by the neck. The cable tie or twist tie has a first end and a second end. The first end of the cable tie or twist tie passes through the passage in the housing and is connected to the second end to form a loop for attaching the hanger to an article of jewelry. |
| US09480345B2 |
Showcase including transparent display panel, and showcase system including same
A showcase including a plurality of frames including a front frame and an upper frame defining a showroom; a transparent display panel placed at the front frame among the frames, the transparent display panel displaying an image; and a light source unit configured to emit light into the showroom, wherein the light source unit is located between an opaque upper portion of the front frame surrounding the transparent display panel and the upper frame, and wherein the light source unit includes a plurality of lamps at each corner of the showcase and is obliquely arranged in a direction from the front frame to the upper frame, and positions of the plurality of lamps are increased in height with an increasing distance from the front frame to the upper frame. |
| US09480343B2 |
Child high chair
A child high chair includes a frame, a seat and a seat attaching mechanism. The seat is detachably assembled with the frame and includes a seat body. The seat attaching mechanism includes a first combining component, a second combining component and a latch. The first combining component is disposed on the frame, and a sunken portion is disposed inside the first combining component. The second combining component is disposed on the seat body to combine with the first combining component. An opening is formed on the second combining component. The latch is disposed inside the second combining component and pivots to the second combining component. The latch includes a protruding portion, which is adapted to protrude from the second combining component via the opening to detachably engage with the sunken portion. |
| US09480341B2 |
Physical support device
A physical support device used for displacing the weight of the upper torso off of the lower back and ensuring proper posture while a user is seated, comprising a base member to be placed on a surface adjacent a seated user, an arced member to be placed under the user's armpit, a vertical support member having a lower end coupled to the base member and an upper end coupled to the arced member. An adjustment mechanism allows for height adjustment of the vertical support member so that the arced member can fit directly under any user's armpit, where the arced member is able to hold and displace the weight of the user's upper torso off the lower back. A forearm support coupled to the vertical support member further provides comfort and relief to a seated user. |
| US09480340B1 |
Systems and methods for providing ergonomic exercise chairs
A chair for providing seating support to a user and for providing ways for the user to perform exercises. The chair includes a back support that is flexible such that when a force is applied to it by the user's body, the back support bends. The back support may be configured to adapt to the curvature of the user's spine when the user is seated in the chair. The back support may further be configured such that the user can rotate the back support by rotating the user's upper body. |
| US09480338B2 |
Ready to assemble sofa and method for packaging same
A furniture system having a base frame, side pieces and a back portion, that assembles quickly and disassembles into a configuration that optimizes space when shipped. |
| US09480335B2 |
Panel dismounting and locking mechanism of drawer
A panel dismounting and locking mechanism of a drawer comprises a side plate, a base plate and a sliding rail assembly for opening/closing the drawer, wherein a cavity of the side plate is internally provided with a dismounting and locking mechanism for locking and separating a front panel, which is rapidly dismounted from the dismounting and locking mechanism by a front jointer at least. The dismounting and locking mechanism at least comprises a main plate, a swing rod articulated with the main plate, and a sliding block located on the main plate through sliding of the swing rod. The main plate is provided with a guide slot, in which the front jointer can slide. The front panel is fastened with the sliding block by a location sidestep on the front jointer and is in contact with the sliding block by the end surface of the front jointer. |
| US09480333B2 |
Lifting column
A lifting column, preferably for height-adjustable tables comprises a guide with three mutually telescopic members (1,2,3) and a motor driven spindle unit for bringing about the movement. The second member (2) of the guide is with a lower end secured to a lower end of the second spindle (6). The second spindle nut (8) co-operating with the second spindle (6) is with a bearing (18) with a rigid connection (28) fixed to a shaft stub (16) secured to an upper end of a drive tube (9). The shaft stub (16) is via a second bearing (20) secured to a mounting plate (23), by means of which the spindle unit is secured in the lifting column. Thus, the vertical load on the lifting column is led through the spindle unit around the guide (1,2,3). This enables a better and more optimum dimensioning of the guide (1,2,3) and the spindle unit, just as it is advantageous in terms of assembly and not least it enables a better implementing of a squeeze protection in the lifting columns. |
| US09480332B2 |
Height-adjustable table
Provided is a height-adjustable table configured such that a height adjustment member rotates in response to an operation of an actuation unit, thereby being released from a locked state, and when an upper plate of the table is vertically lifted to a desired level, the operation of the actuation unit is stopped, and the height of the upper plate is adjusted step by step. Optimal space utility and a simple inner structure of the height-adjustable table can be accomplished, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and increasing user convenience. |
| US09480327B2 |
Drop-prevention apparatus for a rolled product
A lanyard apparatus for a rolled product includes a flexible strap having first and second strap ends and a body portion between the strap ends. The first strap end is secured to the body portion at an attachment point to define a first loop. A hollow tubular member is installed over the body portion between a second strap end portion and the attachment point. The second strap end portion extends from the tubular member and has an opening sized to permit passage of the first loop therethrough to thereby define an openable second loop. The tubular member has a first arm, a second arm spaced apart from the first arm, a transverse part extending transversely between and connecting a lower first arm portion and a lower second arm portion, and an upper transverse portion extending transversely from an upper second arm portion and aligned with the transverse part. |
| US09480326B2 |
Hand-wearable camera harness and method of assembling the hand-wearable camera harness
A hand-wearable camera harness is provided. The harness includes a plate member and a first aperture extending therethrough. The plate member has a first surface and a ring-shaped mounting portion fixedly coupled to the first surface. The ring-shaped mounting portion extends outwardly from the first surface and further extends circumferentially around the first aperture. The ring-shaped mounting portion has a top surface with a first plurality of grooves extending therein. The hand-wearable camera harness further includes a rotatable mounting bracket having a substantially circular-shaped base and at least first and second extension portions. The substantially circular-shaped base has a bottom surface with a second plurality of grooves extending therein. |
| US09480321B2 |
Tweezer arrangement for an epilation head
The invention relates to a motor-driven epilation head for an epilation device for plucking hairs of the human skin. Specifically, the invention relates to an epilation head having a rotation cylinder that can be rotated about a rotation axis and includes a plurality of plucking units for capturing and plucking the hairs. Each plucking unit comprises a first clamping element, a second clamping element and a third clamping element. The first clamping element together with the second clamping element forms a first closeable plucking gap and the second clamping element together with the third clamping element forms a second closeable plucking gap. The first and the second clamping elements are movably mounted and can be jointly actuated by means of an actuation element in order to close the first and the second plucking gap. The first and the second clamping elements move in the same direction. |
| US09480318B2 |
Ring-shaped cover for portable electronic device
An outer cover for an electronic device, such as a portable electronic device, is disclosed. Since portable electronic devices are often portable, they can be damaged, such as scratched, dented, broken, and the like, when transported or used. The outer cover can serve to provide a protective member over part of the housing for the electronic device. The protective member, when placed on the portable electronic device can serve to reduce damage to sides of the portable electronic device. While the outer cover can provide side and/or edge protection, the outer cover need not also provide front or rear protection. |
| US09480317B2 |
Multipurpose storage device and method
A convertible device that converts between an activity mat and a storage container to capture and store numerous articles. Upon reclosing the activity mat, the articles are recaptured into the storage container. The device includes walls and a base, webbing connected between each adjacent wall pair, and a joint connected between the base and walls so that they are foldable into a third configuration wherein the footprint of the folded device is roughly the size of the base. In the third configuration, the walls are stacked relative to the base. The convertible device may further include two zippers for releasably holding the walls in a rigid and upright position in the first configuration. The webbing can be inwardly biased such that when the walls are urged from the second to the first configuration, the webbing folds toward the interior of the convertible device. |
| US09480311B2 |
Slide fastener with simple locking mechanism
In a slide fastener, at least one stopping element including a resistance portion that increases sliding resistance by being brought into contact with an inner surface of a slider when the slider is sliding is locally disposed locally on an element row of a fastener stringer. Accordingly, the slider can be stopped at any position where the stopping element is disposed arbitrarily on the element row and an immobilized state of the slider can be maintained. By operating the slider with a force greater than the sliding resistance to the stopping element, the slider can be made to ride over the resistance portion of the stopping element and to slide along the element row. |
| US09480306B2 |
Cuff connector for a folded cuff
A cuff connector for a folded cuff is provided. The cuff connector may include a base portion that fits within and has larger dimensions than a cuff button hole. The cuff connector may further include a chain that connects the base portion to a connector. The connector is formed to releasably attach to a cuff button. Therefore, a use may fold their cuffs, place the base within the cuff button hole and attach the connector to the cuff button. |
| US09480305B2 |
Cleat for footwear
An improved cleat design is provided for article of footwear. At least one cleat is arranged on a bottom surface of the outsole, such that the cleat is disposed partially within the outsole and extends substantially perpendicular from the bottom surface of the outsole. The cleat is defined as a unitary member having two planar surface angled at a junction toward each other. The cleat further includes an aperture formed therein and extending across the junction as well as a bridge extending between the two planar surfaces and substantially spanning the aperture, where a portion of the outsole encases the bridge and extends through the aperture in a direction substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the outsole to retain the cleat in a desired position relative to the outsole. |
| US09480302B2 |
Shoe having improved cushioning and propulsion
The invention relates to a shoe (C) including a shoe portion and a sole (S), the sole including two main portions that are pivotably connected together and being characterized in that the second front portion (200), secured to the shoe portion of the forepart, extends to the rear of a first swivel pin (A1) in a lever arm portion (210), projects to the rear within the same plane as that of the front portion (200), and is kinetically secured to the latter. The rear end of said arm has a second swivel pin (A2) with the end (310) of at least one resilient module (300), the other end (320) of which is pivotably connected around a third swivel pin (A3) secured to the rear end of the rear portion (100) of the sole (S). |
| US09480299B2 |
Slip-on footwear with foot securing system
The present disclosure provides footwear construction that includes a foot securing mechanism that provides improved fit without resulting in footwear that is substantially more difficult or time consuming to put on and take off. In one embodiment the footwear is a slip-on boot having both an instep hold down system and a heel retaining system. In the depicted embodiment both systems can be activated by a single mechanism exposed on the outside of the boot. Related methods and additional embodiment are also provided. |
| US09480289B1 |
Garment with elastic seams
A garment usable for extreme sports is made of a tough fabric that is not easily damaged in falls and high speed contact with surfaces such as roads and sidewalks. The garment has elastic seams placed at points where an athlete may flex muscles and bend body parts. The seams enable bending tensile forces to be distributed between several layers of strips that are secured within the seams and having different elastic properties such as elastic limit, elastic cycle duration, and restoration force so that together these strips are able to exhibit plural properties that one material is unable to achieve. |
| US09480288B2 |
Reversible compression support bra
A reversible bra for compression stabilizing the breast mass against motion relative to the torso includes a zipper side and a non-zipper side with shoulder straps in a pattern to approximately match the contours of a female user's torso whether the zipper is worn in the front or in the back. The zipper in positioned on the zipper side down the center of the zipper side from a seam at the top adjacent the straps to provide a non-stretchable seam which reduces the stretch area at the location of the breasts to provide greater compression when the zipper is in the front. The bra may be reversed so that a greater area of stretch fabric is position to apply compression against the breast and thereby proved for lessened compression against the breast when the zipper is position in the back of the user. |
| US09480287B2 |
Athletic bra
A bra having a front portion, a back portion, a torso band and a pair of shoulder straps. Areas of the front portion are selectively provided with an inner ply, an outer ply, and an intermediate fabric ply. The intermediate fabric ply is formed of a relatively supportive material and is configured to be positioned along the top and lateral sides of a wearer's breasts. |
| US09480285B2 |
Electronic cigarette and its atomizing device
The present invention discloses an electronic cigarette atomizing device, which comprises an atomizing sleeve, an oil supply unit mounted in the atomizing sleeve and a heating wire unit, the atomizing sleeve has its first end configured with a nozzle cover, and its second end configured with a connecting unit, the oil supply unit comprises an oil storage cotton for storing the smoke oil and an oil guiding member for guiding the smoke oil to the heating wire unit, the heating wire unit comprises a hollow spiral tubular heating wire, a ceramic tube and an electronic wire for connecting the heating wire to the connecting unit, the oil guiding member is made of non-fiberglass fiber material, wrapped around the heating wire to have a tubular shape and fixed by a fixing wire wound around an outer wall of the oil guiding member, and wrapped around an end of the ceramic tube. |
| US09480284B2 |
Smoking article
A smoking article comprising a first part moveable relative to a second part, and an indexing mechanism comprising a first indexing surface on the first part, and a second indexing surface on a support element of the second part. The second indexing surface is configured to engage with the first indexing surface to control relative movement between the first part and second part. One or more spacer elements are arranged to control a radial position of the first indexing surface relative to the second indexing surface. The support element and one or more spacer elements are frangibly connected. |
| US09480283B2 |
Process and apparatus for improving raw tobacco
Disclosed are a process and an apparatus for improving tobacco raw material. The process mainly comprises performing an extraction from at least one of tobacco leafs, tobacco flakes, tobacco powder, stalks and cut stems by mixed solvents, conducting a solid-liquid separation for the tobacco raw material, applying the extract liquor of tobacco leaves, flakes and cuts for manufacturing tobacco extract and that of stalks and cut stems for manufacturing fertilizer, diluting and mixing a given amount of tobacco aqueous extract and ethanol extract and removing harmful components so as to get feed liquid, backfilling the feed liquid to the tobacco raw material, and drying the tobacco raw material to a certain dryness to obtain the products. The apparatus is a system composed of a plurality of interconnected independent devices such as extractor, solid-liquid separator, a feed liquid backfiller, etc. |
| US09480282B2 |
Feed device for linear airflow separator
A feed device for a linear airflow separator that eliminates the use of a winnower in the separation of tobacco products. The feed device includes an adjustable angle baffle deflector in combination with an air knife. The air-fed adjustable angle baffle deflector feeds with non-product contact and as a result does not lead to mechanical degradation of the treated material. The air knife is fed with air from a high pressure blower having a variable frequency drive. The feed device treats the product with air only, thereby eliminating mechanical contact with the product and resulting in higher separation yields and higher operating efficiency than conventional recirculating pneumatic separators. |
| US09480278B2 |
Diet for altering the nutrient composition of feeder insects
A diet for altering the nutrient composition of a feeder insect includes a feed composition of feed material and nutrients. The diet is provided in a variety of forms, including as a powder or dry pellet. The nutrients in the diet include a carotenoid, essential fatty acid, and vitamin E in selected quantities and ratios. |
| US09480273B2 |
Reduced flouride crustacean de-oiled protein-phospholipid complex compositions
The present invention contemplates the creation of a low fluoride oil processed from a phospholipid-protein complex (PPC) formed immediately upon a crustacean (i.e., for example, krill) catch. The process comprises disintegrating the crustaceans into smaller particles, adding water, heating the result, adding enzyme(s) to hydrolyze the disintegrated material, deactivating the enzyme(s), removing solids from the enzymatically processed material to reduce fluoride content of the material, separating and drying the PPC material. Then, using extraction with supercritical CO2 and ethanol as solvents, inter alia krill oil is separated from the PPC. In the extraction the krill oil can be separated almost wholly from the feed material. The products have low fluoride content. The manufacturing costs in the extraction process are relatively low. |
| US09480270B2 |
Low post-acidifying lactic acid bacteria
The present invention relates to lactic acid bacteria that have low or reduced post-acidification properties, and to a method for providing such bacteria. Also, the invention relates to the use of such bacteria for manufacturing of fermented dairy products, and to dairy products containing the bacteria. |
| US09480262B2 |
Bread with increased arabinoxylo-oligosaccharide content
A method for increasing in a baked product, after baking, the level of water-soluble arabinoxylan with an average degree of polymerization ranging from 5 to 50, comprising preparing a dough for a baked product with flour having a total arabinoxylan content of at least 2.0%, and adding to the dough an enzyme preparation comprising at least one thermophilic endoxylanase in an amount at least two-fold higher than the amount conferring 90% of the maximal bread volume increase obtained by addition of such enzyme preparation to the recipe of the baked product. Using this method, baked products can be obtained that have a level of arabinoxylan of at least 1.7% The present invention further relates to baked products obtainable by this method, and to an improver and a dough which may be used for the preparation of such products. |
| US09480261B1 |
Insecticidal strain of Serratia for control of brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys
Disclosed are biocontrol agents for the control of insects (e.g., Halyomorpha halys), in particular, to a certain Serratia strain capable of killing insects such as Halyomorpha halys. More specifically, disclosed is the Serratia strain NRRL B-50575. Also disclosed is a biocontrol strategy whereby insects (e.g., BMSB) are exposed to the Serratia strain NRRL B-50575 as a method for killing insects. |
| US09480258B2 |
Synergistic microbicidal combinations
Antimicrobial compositions based on the synergistic combination of 2-methyl-3-isothiazolone and selected commercial microbicides where the compositions are substantially free of halogenated 3-isothiazolone, are disclosed. Particularly preferred are combinations of 2-methyl-3-isothiazolone together with benzoic acid, citric acid, sorbic acid, 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane, 1,3-dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, zinc pyrithione or climbazole, that provide enhanced microbicidal efficacy at a combined active ingredient level lower than that of the combined individual 3-isothiazolone and commercial microbicide effective use levels. |
| US09480257B2 |
Capsule suspension formulations of dithiopyr herbicide
Dithiopyr capsule suspension formulations, possessing a broad range of capsule wall thicknesses and diameters are disclosed. These capsules have decreased volatility and provide enhanced biological activity when compared with commercial dithiopyr in water formulations. |
| US09480255B2 |
Agricultural composition, method for the production thereof and uses in the treatment of cultures
The present invention relates to an agricultural composition and the uses thereof to protect crops against attack by plant pathogens and/or to improve the resistance of crops to infections caused by said pathogenic agents and/or to enhance the tolerance thereof to abiotic stresses, such as those caused by cold, salinity and drought. Said composition comprises an association of an at least partially depolymerized chitosan with a bivalent copper chelate. The composition has shown to be particularly suitable-for treating oidium infections. It is moreover useful against the propagation of viruses and/or particularly effective as a biostimulant to plant and fruit growth and/or able to extend the shelf life of fruit and seeds. |
| US09480252B2 |
Herbicidal compositions
The present invention relates to a method of controlling weeds using mixtures of HPPD inhibiting herbicides and plant growth regulators. It also relates to mixtures of HPPD inhibiting herbicides and plant growth regulators per se, and compositions comprising the same. |
| US09480240B2 |
Dog restraining apparatus and method
Embodiments of a dog restraining apparatus comprise a dog collar and a collar positioning assembly. The collar is configured to attach to a leash at a location behind the dog's head when the collar is secured around the dog's neck. The collar positioning assembly includes an alignment strap having ends attachable to the collar at respective collar attachment locations such that the alignment strap is extendable across the dog's nose bridge when the dog collar is secured around the dog's neck The collar attachment locations may be adjustable along the collar. The alignment strap may have a continuous or non-continuous bead of elastomer disposed on its interior surface to frictionally engage the dog's nose. The collar positioning assembly may be readily detachable from, and re-attachable to, the collar. Attachment of the strap ends may be facilitated by intervening structures such as strap end loops, O-rings and releasable collar attachment loops. |
| US09480239B2 |
Animal feeder
An animal feeder comprises a vertical portion having a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side. A first groove extends continuously through each of the left side, the front side, and the right side. At least a part of the back side is generally concave to facilitate the securement of the feeder to a tree. An angular portion of the feeder extends from the vertical portion at an angle. The angular portion has a mouth with a stop. The vertical portion and the angular portion collectively define a cavity configured for retaining animal feed. The cavity is accessible at least at the mouth. The back side comprises a channel, a first bracket, and a second bracket, each of which are collectively configured for securement of a T-post. |
| US09480237B2 |
Milking parlour for animals
A milking parlor for animals comprising at least one milking stall arranged to receive an animal in a predetermined milking position, teat cups arranged to be used in milking the animal in the milking stall, a teat cup carrier arranged to store the teat cups in the milking stall when they are not used, and at least one robot arm provided with at least one gripping member arranged to grip a teat cup in the teat cup carrier and attach the teat cup on the teat of an animal in the milking stall. The teat cup carrier stores the teat cups in a storing area located at least partly in front of the front legs of the animal with respect to the direction of the animal when it stands in the predetermined milking position in the milking stall. |
| US09480236B2 |
System and method of attaching a cup to a dairy animal according to a sequence
A system includes a milking box and a robotic arm. The milking box comprises a stall portion that houses a dairy livestock with four teats. The robotic arm performs the following operation for a plurality of teats of the dairy livestock: retrieves a cup; attaches the cup to a teat; and detaches the cup from the teat. The cup is maintained within the stall portion of the milking box from the time that the cup is attached to a first teat of the dairy livestock through the time that the cup is attached to a last teat of the dairy livestock. The cup is retracted into an equipment area of the milking box after it is detached from the last teat of the dairy livestock. |
| US09480231B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV010962
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV010962. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV010962, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV010962 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV010962 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV010962. |
| US09480228B2 |
Soybean variety XR30AR14RX
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated XR30AR14RX. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety XR30AR14RX. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety XR30AR14RX and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety XR30AR14RX with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09480215B2 |
Tomato variety N 6410
The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of tomato, N 6410 or NUN 00201 TOP which is especially useful as processing tomato. |
| US09480214B2 |
Tomato variety N 6416
The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of tomato, N 6416 or NUN 00210 TOP which is especially useful as processing tomato. |
| US09480213B2 |
Tomato variety N 6407
The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of tomato, N 6407 or NUN 00193 TOP which is especially useful as processing tomato. |
| US09480212B2 |
Hybrid carrot variety NUN 89849 CAC
The invention relates to the field of Daucus carota, in particular to a new variety of carrot designated NUN 89849 CAC as well as plants, seeds and carrot roots thereof. |
| US09480209B2 |
Irrigation system and method
A method of operating a mobile irrigation system includes receiving water application amount and application pattern information from a user, automatically determining an irrigation plan using the amount information and the pattern information, and using an automated controller to operate the mobile irrigation system according to the irrigation plan. The irrigation system is operated by applying water at progressively decreasing levels as the irrigation system moves from a first position to a second position, and applying water at the same or similar progressively decreasing levels as the irrigation system is moved in a reverse direction from the second position back to the first position. |
| US09480205B2 |
Combined packer and stuffer means
An agricultural baler of the rectangular type has a feeder of which the movement is directly derived from and synchronized with the movement of the reciprocating plunger. |
| US09480202B2 |
Automated selective harvesting of crops
Various embodiments include a device for selectively harvesting crops on a plant. The device can include a picking apparatus. The picking apparatus can be rotatable around a central axis. The picking apparatus can include a plurality of grippers each spaced apart and extending radially from the central axis, and each configured to pick a different individual one of the crops. Each of the plurality of grippers can be adjustable between an open position and a closed position. Each of the plurality of grippers can be configured in the open position to open around the individual crop. Each of the plurality of grippers can be configured in the closed position to securely hold the individual crop when the picking apparatus is rotated around the central axis. Other embodiments are provided. |
| US09480198B2 |
Swivel drawbar hitch mechanism for pull-type implement
A drawbar hitch mechanism has a fore-and-aft extending receiver, a gearbox assembly coupled to the receiver and a tongue assembly attached to the gearbox assembly. A first pivot mechanism couples the receiver with the gearbox assembly for side-to-side movement about a longitudinal axis of the receiver. A draft arm is configured to disperse draft loads between the tongue assembly and the receiver. A second pivot mechanism couples the gearbox assembly and the draft arm. The second pivot mechanism is oriented such that it pivots about an upright axis such that the gearbox assembly and second pivot mechanism enable pivoting movement of the tongue assembly relative the receiver. |
| US09485887B1 |
Data center with streamlined power and cooling
A data center includes two or more rack computing systems, a free cooling system, and an electrical power system. The free air cooling system includes air moving devices external to the rack computing systems. The electrical power system includes switchgear and one or more power panels. The switchgear receives power from a utility power feed. The power panels receive power from the switchgear. The power panels supply electrical power to the computing devices. |
| US09485885B2 |
Stabilizing rack systems for seismic loads
A system for performing computing operations includes a rack that rests on a floor and a stabilization device coupled on the top of the rack. The stabilization device includes a mounting portion coupled to the rack, a ballast member, and one or more spring devices coupled between the ballast member and the mounting portion. The ballast member reduces displacement of the rack from seismic loads transmitted from the floor to the rack to mitigate effects of the seismic loads on the rack. |
| US09485878B2 |
Substrate structure having electronic components and method of manufacturing substrate structure having electronic components
The present invention relates to a substrate structure having electronic components and a method of manufacturing a substrate structure having electronic components and can reduce signal loss and internal resistance and improve process efficiency by bringing a first terminal of a first electronic component and a second terminal of a second electronic component in direct contact with each other or in direct contact with each other by solder to minimize a path between the electronic components. |
| US09485876B2 |
Methods of manufacturing printed circuit boards with stacked micro vias
A method of manufacturing at least a portion of a printed circuit board. The method includes: applying a lamination adhesive on a first plural-layer substrate that includes a plurality of circuit layers with at least one first metal pad on a first side of the first plural-layer substrate; applying a protective film on the lamination adhesive; forming at least one via into the lamination adhesive to expose the at least one metal pad on the first side of the first plural-layer substrate; filling at least one conductive paste into the at least one via formed in the lamination adhesive; removing the protective film to expose the lamination adhesive on the first plural-layer substrate; and attaching the first plural-layer substrate with a second plural-layer substrate that includes a plurality of circuit layers with at least one second metal pad on a second side of the second plural-layer substrate. |
| US09485873B2 |
Depositing bulk or micro-scale electrodes
Thicker electrodes are provided on microelectronic device using thermo-compression bonding. A thin-film electrical conducting layer forms electrical conduits and bulk depositing provides an electrode layer on the thin-film electrical conducting layer. An insulating polymer layer encapsulates the electrically thin-film electrical conducting layer and the electrode layer. Some of the insulating layer is removed to expose the electrode layer. |
| US09485872B2 |
Gas-blowing-hole array structure and soldering apparatus
In a gas-blowing-hole array structure, which enables gas to be blown to the whole surface of the conveyed member such as a printed circuit board, a semiconductor wafer or the like almost concentrically and allows the whole surface of conveyed member to be very uniformly heated or cooled, a nozzle pattern P2 of blowing nozzles 2 is arranged to be line symmetry with a nozzle pattern P1 of the blowing nozzles 2 in upper and lower divided sections of one side of the nozzle cover 3 relative to a center portion thereof that is orthogonal to a conveying direction, as shown in FIG. 1. In order for the arrangement patterns diagonally arranged in the nozzle cover 3 to become identical, the nozzle pattern P1 is arranged to be line symmetry with the nozzle pattern P2 of the blowing nozzles 2 in upper and lower divided sections of the other side of the nozzle cover 3. |
| US09485871B2 |
Method of making a light-emitting-diode lamp tube
An automatic production method of making a light-emitting-diode lamp tube is disclosed. The method includes providing a circuit board in a shape of a long strip, printing a bonding layer, mounting electronic inserts, heating up the circuit board, assembling a heat dissipation seat, assembling a translucent cover and assembling an end cap, thereby accomplishing the lamp tube. By the abovementioned steps, the light-emitting-diode lamp tube can be produced automatically, the manufacturing process can be simplified to reduce the labor cost, and the yield factor can be improved considerably. |
| US09485855B2 |
Substrate reinforcing structure
A substrate reinforcing structure for preventing and suppressing deformation or the like of a substrate with a fixed electric component socket.A first reinforcing plate in, for example, a frame shape is attached to a back surface of a wiring board. Further, a second reinforcing plate in, for example, a flat shape is provided on a back side of the first reinforcing plate. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a first insulating sheet is further provided between the wiring board and the first reinforcing plate, and a spacer is provided on the second reinforcing plate and abutted to a part of the wiring board where contact pins do not protrude. A second insulating sheet is further provided on the second reinforcing plate. |
| US09485850B2 |
Circuit device and method of manufacturing the same
A circuit device includes a heat detection component including lead terminals and a heat detection element, a heat-generating electronic component including lead terminals, and a substrate including a wiring pattern, holes, and lands, the heat detection component and the heat-generating electronic component being electrically connected to the substrate through the lead terminals thereof, wherein the lead terminals of the heat detection component are bent into a U-shaped or substantially U-shaped configuration such that the bent lead terminals are partly contacted with the heat-generating electronic component, and the heat-generating electronic component is sandwiched between portions of the lead terminals and the heat detection element of the heat detection component. |
| US09485849B1 |
RF particle accelerator structure with fundamental power couplers for ampere class beam current
A radio frequency particle accelerator structure and particle acceleration method are disclosed. Radio frequency electromagnetic energy is emitted from a fundamental power coupler coupled between a first electromagnetic resonant cavity sequentially coupled a second electromagnetic resonant cavity. The radio frequency electromagnetic energy is resonated in the first electromagnetic resonant cavity and the second electromagnetic resonant cavity. |
| US09485847B1 |
Method of aligning a laser-based radiation source
A method for temporally and spatially aligning a laser-based x-ray source and maintaining alignment is disclosed. A pump laser beam, which interacts with a plasma source to create an electron beam, is aligned with the electron beam. A scattering laser beam is overlapped with the pump laser beam at an intersection point. The pump laser beam and scattering laser beam alignments are monitored and adjusted to maintain optimal alignment during operation of the laser-based x-ray source. |
| US09485846B2 |
Method and system for inspecting an EUV mask
A structure for grounding an extreme ultraviolet mask (EUV mask) is provided to discharge the EUV mask during the inspection by an electron beam inspection tool. The structure for grounding an EUV mask includes at least one grounding pin to contact conductive areas on the EUV mask, wherein the EUV mask may have further conductive layer on sidewalls or/and back side. The inspection quality of the EUV mask is enhanced by using the electron beam inspection system because the accumulated charging on the EUV mask is grounded. The reflective surface of the EUV mask on a continuously moving stage is scanned by using the electron beam simultaneously. The moving direction of the stage is perpendicular to the scanning direction of the electron beam. |
| US09485843B2 |
Lighting control apparatus
Disclosed is a lighting control apparatus. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a lighting system control be easily configured, maintained, and repaired since additional light and block control of the lighting can be provided with ease by wireless control of the lighting through wireless communication. In addition, the present invention can control individual lamps by storing a control signal corresponding to an address for each lamp in a gateway according to a predetermined scenario. |
| US09485839B2 |
Pressure activated illumination apparatuses
A pressure activated illumination apparatus is provided. In some embodiments, a pressure activated illumination apparatus may comprise a pressure mat which includes a pressure switch configured to detect weight placed on the pressure mat; an illumination housing which comprises a light emitting element and is movable relative to the pressure mat; and a user control input configured to modulate the illumination of the light emitting element. The pressure mat may be in electrical communication with the illumination housing, and a light emitting element of the illumination housing may be configured to illuminate upon receiving an electrical communication from the pressure mat. |
| US09485836B2 |
Controlling apparatus for dimming level of light and controlling method of the same
Disclosed is a controlling apparatus for a dimming level of a light disposed on a ceiling surface, including: a sampling unit sampling an illumination value of a ceiling area depending on a change in a dimming level of the light; a communication unit receiving an illumination value of a floor area at a minimum dimming level of the light and an illumination value of the floor area at a maximum dimming level of the light; an estimation unit estimating an illumination value of the floor area at a current dimming level of the light based on an algorithm defined by using the illumination value of the floor area and the illumination value of the ceiling area at the minimum dimming level of the light, the illumination value of the floor area and the illumination value of the ceiling area at the maximum dimming level of the light, and the illumination value of the ceiling area at the current dimming level of the light; and a control unit controlling the dimming level of the light so that the estimated illumination value of the floor area and a target illumination value coincide with each other. |
| US09485833B2 |
Method and apparatus for increasing dimming range of solid state lighting fixtures
A system for controlling a level of light output by a solid state lighting load controlled by a dimmer includes a phase angle detector and a power converter. The phase angle detector is configured to detect a phase angle of the dimmer based on a rectified voltage from the dimmer and to determine a power control signal based on comparison of the detected phase angle with a predetermined first threshold. The power converter is configured to provide an output voltage to the solid state lighting load, the power converter operating in an open loop mode based on the rectified voltage from the dimmer when the detected phase angle is greater than the first threshold, and operating in a closed loop mode based on the rectified voltage from the dimmer and the determined power control signal from the detection circuit when the detected phase angle is less than the first threshold. |
| US09485832B2 |
Display panel, display device, and electronic unit
A display panel including: a panel section including a display region where a plurality of pixels are arranged, and a gap region provided in a gap between the pixels; and a barrier section including a plurality of transmissive regions in a two-dimensional arrangement, and a light-blocking region to be around each of the transmissive regions. The transmissive regions are each configured to make entirely visible any one of the pixels therethrough when a viewer views the panel section not from a front but from a first or second direction via the barrier section, the pixels are each configured by a plurality of sub-pixels varying in type, and the sub-pixels in each of the pixels are arranged not in stripes but differently. |
| US09485830B2 |
LED lighting apparatus
When an LED lighting apparatus which is a lighter load than an incandescent lamp or halogen lamp is connected to a dimmer, a malfunction may occur. The invention prevents the occurrence of such malfunction without defeating the purpose of low power consumption of the LED lighting apparatus. More specifically, the LED lighting apparatus includes a rectifier circuit, a light-emitting circuit connected to the rectifier circuit and containing a single or a plurality of LEDs in which current begins to flow when an output voltage of the rectifier circuit exceeds a threshold voltage, and a bypass circuit having a bypass path for making the current flow to the rectifier circuit without passing through the light-emitting circuit, and a detecting unit for detecting the current flowing through the light-emitting circuit, and wherein when the current detected by the detecting unit exceeds a predetermined value, the bypass circuit shuts off the current flowing through the bypass path. |
| US09485828B2 |
LED lamp comprising a safety module for safe operation on various ballasts
The current invention relates to a LED lamp (10) comprising at least one LED light source (103), at least one driver (101) for powering the LED light source (103), at least one input rectifier with a plurality of diodes for converting an AC current from mains into a DC current, providing electrical power to the driver (101), the LED lamp (10) further comprising a safety module comprising one first and one second modules (F1, F2) for protection against overcurrent and overheating of the EM ballast, the first module (F1) being put in series with the driver (101) and designed to interrupt current in case the driver fails when the LED lamp (10) is directly connected to the mains, and the second module (F2) being designed to interrupt current when at least one of the diodes of the input rectifier fails when the lamp is connected to the mains via an EM ballast. |
| US09485817B2 |
Control circuit of light emitting element
A control circuit of a light-emitting element comprises a rectifying unit which full-wave rectifies an alternating current power supply, a clock generator which generates and outputs a clock signal (CLK), a first comparator which compares a comparison voltage (CS) corresponding to a current flowing to the light-emitting element and a reference voltage (REF), and a switching element which is set to an ON state in synchronization with the clock signal (CLK) and which is set to an OFF state when the comparison voltage (CS) becomes greater than the reference voltage (REF) at the first comparator, to switch the current flowing to the light-emitting element. In this structure, a period of the clock signal (CLK) generated in the clock generator is varied, to reduce or inhibit noise. |
| US09485814B2 |
Systems and methods for a hysteresis based driver using a LED as a voltage reference
The present disclosure is directed to a hysteresis based driver that incorporates the forward voltage of the LEDs being driven into the design of the driver itself. Instead of providing a typical fixed voltage reference, the forward voltage of one or more LEDS driven by the driver is used as a voltage reference. As the input voltage varies during operation of the one or more LEDs, the current varies as well. This current change is larger than it would be without the LEDs and only resistors. This variable current measurement may be used as input into a hysteresis circuit that controls the switch that turns on and off the one or more LEDs. As such, the driver may not incorporate or use a typical fixed voltage reference such as one provided by a zener diode. |
| US09485811B1 |
Spray bottle warming system
A spray bottle warming system warms the liquid contents held within a spray bottle used in a hair cutting or styling salon. The device uses a housing that has a bottom and a base plate such that one or more heating coils are located either underneath or passing through the base plate. A sidewall of the housing forms an annular lip with an opening therebetween with the spray bottle resting on the base plate and secured by the annular lip and heated via the heating coils. The device is capable of sensing the weight of the spray bottle, either absolutely, or relative to an initial starting weight, so that the output of the heating coils is controlled by the weight sensed, the less weigh sensed, and thus the less contents within the bottle, the less heat output from the heating coils. |
| US09485804B1 |
High-speed WAN to wireless LAN gateway
A gateway interconnecting a high speed Wide Area Network (WAN) and a lower speed Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is provided. The high speed WAN is preferably connected to the gateway via a Fiber-to-the Home (FTTH) connection and associated FTTH modem. In general, the gateway includes an adaptable cross-layer offload engine operating to manage bandwidth between the high speed WAN and the lower speed WLAN. As data enters the gateway from the WAN at the high speed data rate of the WAN, the offload engine stores the data in a non-secure data cache. A rule check engine performs a stateless or stateful inspection of the data in the non-secure data cache. Thereafter, the data is moved from the non-secure data cache to a secure data cache and thereafter transmitted to an appropriate user device in the WLAN at the lower data rate of the WLAN. |
| US09485803B2 |
Radio-frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) chip(s) for providing distributed antenna system functionalities, and related components, systems, and methods
Radio-frequency (RF) integrated circuit (RFIC) chip(s) allow for the integration of multiple electronic circuits on a chip to provide distributed antenna system functionalities. RFIC chips are employed in central unit and remote unit components, reducing component cost and size, increasing performance and reliability, while reducing power consumption. The components are also easier to manufacture. The RFIC chip(s) can be employed in distributed antenna systems and components that support RF communications services and/or digital data services. |
| US09485802B2 |
Encoded information reading terminal with user-configurable multi-protocol wireless communication interface
An apparatus may include a microprocessor and a wireless communication interface configured to perform at least one of receiving a first radio signal or transmitting a second radio signal. The microprocessor may be configured to execute at least one of a base-band encoder software program or a base-band decoder software program. The apparatus may be further configured to execute a wireless communication protocol selector software program that may be configured to optimize a value of a user-defined criterion in order to dynamically select at least one of a wireless communication network, a wireless communication protocol, and a parameter of a wireless communication protocol. |
| US09485801B1 |
Mobile communication device connected to home digital network
An electronic device in a home digital living network alliance (DLNA) network. The device comprises a memory, a processor, and a client application stored in the memory, when executed by the processor, communicatively couples to an IP multimedia subsystem (IMS) server, wherein communication between the client application and the IMS server is initiated by the client application, and forwards at least one of content or available service information from the home DLNA network to a mobile communication device via the IMS server. The application further polls the IMS server, and receives at least one of content or available service information from the mobile communication device via the IMS server, whereby issues with firewall, dynamic internet protocol address, and network address translation (NAT) in communicatively coupling the mobile communication device and the home DLNA network are limited. |
| US09485799B2 |
Method to connect a mobile node to a network
The invention relates to a method for connecting a mobile node (1) comprising a plurality of network connection interfaces (11a, 11b) to at least one network (3) using the mobile internet protocol with the following steps for the respective interfaces (11a, 11b): —the mobile node (1) retrieves a local IP address (CoAa, CoAb) and at least one DNS server (5, 5a, 5b) address using DHCP on the interface (11a, 11b), —the mobile node (1) stores in a list the at least one returned DNS server (5, 5a, 5b) address, —the mobile node (1) queries the at least one DNS server (5, 5a, 5b) which has its address stored in the list for home agent service and receives either a “service not supported” failure notification or the address of at least one home agent (9a, 9b) reachable on the interface (11a, 11b),—the mobile node (1) stores in the list the results of the query, either “service not available” or the home agent (9a, 9b) addresses returned for the respective DNS Servers (5, 5a, 5b) inquired, —the mobile node (1) obtains a home address (Ho Aa, Ho Ab) on the interface, _13 the mobile node (1) attempts to perform a binding update for care-of-address (Co Aa, Co Ab) and home address (HoAa, HoAb) towards the at least one home agent (9a, 9b) address stored in the previous list and updates its stored list accordingly with respective binding success or binding failure notifications, in case of success, the mobile node (1) records on the list a fully qualified domain name associated to the interface (11a, 11b). The invention also relates to the associated mobile node and DHCP unit. |
| US09485798B2 |
Mobile communication system, base station, user terminal, and processor
A mobile communication system which supports D2D communication that is direct inter-terminal radio communication, comprises: a user terminal that transmits and receives discovery signals for a discovery process of a communication target terminal of the D2D communication; and a base station that transmits discovery resource information indicating radio resources to be used for transmitting and receiving the discovery signals. The user terminal transmits and receives the discovery signals when the discovery resource information is received from the base station, by using the radio resource indicated by the received discovery resource information. |
| US09485795B2 |
Proximity-based coupling service
Systems and methods may provide for implementing a proximity-based coupling service. In one example, the method may include detecting, utilizing a first communication protocol, the presence of a second device by a first device, initiating a wireless network utilizing a second communication protocol, wherein the first device is to serve as a software-enabled access point (SoftAP), and configuring the second device to join the wireless network utilizing the second communication protocol. |
| US09485794B2 |
Methods and apparatus for using device to device communications to support IMS based services
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided in connection with using D2D communications to support at least a portion of IMS based services. In one example, a first UE is equipped to perform communications with a second UE using an IMS session in which data traffic and signaling traffic are supported through a network, determine that the second UE is within a first proximity threshold of the first UE, establish a D2D communication link with the second UE, and transfer support of the data traffic to the D2D communication link while maintaining the support of the signaling traffic through the network. In an aspect, the first proximity threshold may be a distance, a signaling strength or a signaling quality between the first and second UEs between which D2D communications are supported. |
| US09485790B2 |
Apparatus and method for seamless commissioning of wireless devices
An apparatus is provided for commissioning a target device onto a wireless local area network (WLAN). The apparatus includes a smart wireless device. The smart wireless device has commissioning logic and a transducer. The commissioning logic is configured to format and direct transmission of one or more WLAN configuration packets that convey WLAN configuration data. The transducer is coupled to the commissioning logic, and is configured to transmit the one or more WLAN configuration packets over the transmission path to the target device, wherein the transducer is an existing component of the smart wireless device. |
| US09485789B2 |
Connection setup with an access selection of a terminal
A method for requesting a connection setup of a connection between a terminal (302) and a node (304) of a radio access network (300) is described. The radio access network (300) supports a first access and a second access of the terminal (302) to the radio access network (300) for the connection. The method is executed by the terminal (302). The method comprises determining (314) whether to at least partially accept a network defined condition of the radio access network (300) associated with the first access, selecting (316), from the first access and the second access, the first access based on a result of the step (314) of determining, and requesting (320a, b), from the node (304), the selected first access for the connection. The method may enable an improved management of a quality of service by the radio access network in association with a connection between a terminal and the radio access network. |
| US09485779B2 |
Method for resource management in a TDD cellular communication network and resource management system
A method for resource management in a cellular communication network, wherein said network includes at least one base station per cell for a plurality of cells that operates in TDD (Time Division Duplex) transmission mode, each base station having a respective coverage area is characterized in that said base stations are operated such that spatial zones exist—overlap areas—in which the coverage areas of at least two of said base stations overlap, wherein UEs within an overlap area utilize UL and/or DL resources from those of the respective base stations that best match their particular traffic demands in the UL and/or in the DL. Furthermore, a corresponding resource management system for use in a cellular communication network is disclosed. |
| US09485778B2 |
WiFi real-time streaming and bluetooth coexistence
A system and method for peer-to-peer communications is disclosed. A first wireless device receives a message from a second wireless device identifying communication requirements of a point-to-point communication involving the second wireless device. The first wireless device determines whether the second wireless device's communication requirements can be satisfied based on communication resources already committed for other communications. When the communication requirements of the second wireless device can be satisfied, the first wireless device generates a time sharing schedule to be used by the first and second wireless devices based on the already-committed communication requirements and the second device's communication requirements. The time sharing schedule may include a first portion for broadcast communication among a group of devices to which the first and second wireless devices belong, and a second portion for the point-to-point communications of the second wireless devices. |
| US09485777B2 |
Systems and methods for scheduling wireless communications
This disclosure provides coexistence strategies for a combined wireless communications device using multiple wireless protocols, such as WLAN and LTE. One or more periods having increased interference potential during an upcoming communication event of one wireless protocol may be identified and the transmission duration of another wireless protocol may be dynamically adjusted to reduce interference. In one aspect, a first period of potential interference during an upcoming LTE transmission may be predicted based on allocated LTE transmission power. The duration of the transmission may be adjusted so that a response to the transmission does not arrive during the first period. In another aspect, a second period of potential interference during an upcoming LTE reception may be predicted based on an estimated quality of LTE reception. The duration of the transmission may be adjusted so that the transmission does not being during the second period. |
| US09485775B2 |
Radio communication system, radio base station and radio communication method
The present invention is designed to execute adequate signaling even when individual user terminals perform communication to support separate types of communication, in MIMO transmission to use antennas having varying antenna configurations depending on the type of communication. A radio base station (200) has an antenna that has varying antenna configurations between at least two types of communication and that can transmit signals to all areas which the radio base station covers, in an antenna configuration to support at least one communication type 1, allocates radio resources to a downlink signal including capacities of a user terminal and a signal type to match a communication type, multiplexes a plurality of reference signals to be used in each communication type on the same resource block, generates precoding weights which allow the antenna to form a number of beams to match the communication type, and multiplies a downlink signal to supply to the antenna by the generated precoding weights. |
| US09485773B2 |
Synchronous TDM-based communication in dominant interference scenarios
Techniques for supporting communication in a heterogeneous network are described. In an aspect, communication in a dominant interference scenario may be supported by reserving subframes for a weaker base station observing high interference from a strong interfering base station. In another aspect, interference due to a first reference signal from a first station (e.g., a base station) may be mitigated by canceling the interference at a second station (e.g., a UE) or by selecting different resources for sending a second reference signal by the second station (e.g., another base station) to avoid collision with the first reference signal. In yet another aspect, a relay may transmit in an MBSFN mode in subframes that it listens to a macro base station and in a regular mode in subframes that it transmits to UEs. In yet another aspect, a station may transmit more TDM control symbols than a dominant interferer. |
| US09485772B2 |
Techniques for peer-to-peer network sharing
Techniques for peer-to-peer network sharing are described. In one embodiment, an apparatus may comprise a sharing control component and a local proxy component. The sharing control component may be operative to transmit an offer from the first mobile device to a second mobile device for the second mobile device to act as a proxy for the first mobile device for the performance of network services in return for a transfer of sharing credit from a first account to a second account with a sharing authority, the first account associated with the first mobile device, the second account associated with the second mobile device, and receive an offer acceptance from the second mobile device. The local proxy component may be operative to receive configuration information and configure the first mobile device to use the second mobile device as a network proxy using the configuration information. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09485771B2 |
Random access using predictive mobility
Methods, systems, and devices are described for predicting a current random access transmission power detectable by a base station based on historical transmission power information. In one aspect, a mobile device may access a historical transmission power associated with a current state of the mobile device, with the historical transmission power based on mobility patterns of the mobile device. Based at least in part on the accessed historical transmission power, the mobile device may predict a current random access transmission power of the mobile device, where the predicted current random access transmission power is configured to elicit a random access response from a base station. In one aspect, the techniques described herein may reduce a number of power ramp steps taken by the mobile device during a random access procedure, reduce interference from the mobile device during the random access procedure, or both based on the predicted current random access transmission power. |