| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09482685B1 |
On-axis mounting of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within an optical system
Techniques and architecture are disclosed for providing an optical system having an on-axis, internally mounted inertial measurement unit (IMU). In some cases, an IMU may be mounted within an interior region/cavity of an inner housing, which in turn is configured to rotate within an outer housing. In some instances, a mirror assembly may be operatively coupled with the inner housing and permitted to rotate simultaneously with the IMU. Rotation of the inner housing may be achieved, in some example cases, by use of a suitable motor. In some instances, positioning componentry may be operatively coupled with one or more of the IMU and/or mirror assembly. Improvements in mechanical stability, system dimensions, and/or protection from external/environmental hazards may be realized, in some example cases. |
| US09482683B2 |
System and method for sequential testing across multiple devices
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for sequential testing across multiple devices. In one implementation, the method includes analyzing test device requirements, received from a plurality of user devices, to generate automation scripts for test automation. Further, the method includes allocating testing devices, from among the plurality of user devices, for the sequential testing based on availability of the plurality of user devices and the test device requirements. Further, the method includes determining a sequential schedule based on at least one of a waiting time for the testing devices, a priority assigned to the testing devices and the automation scripts, intermediate data, an execution status, and a device status. |
| US09482678B1 |
Method for measurement of bioavailable testosterone
Provided are methods for determining level of bioactive testosterone in a biological sample. In one aspect, aromatase enzyme is utilized to convert free, bio-available testosterone into estradiol and the amount of estradiol is measured before and after the addition of enzyme. The difference in measurements provides the amount of bioactive testosterone in the sample. In another aspect, a competitor of testosterone binding to SHBG is utilized to displace testosterone bound to SHBG. Measurements of total testosterone in the sample before addition of competitor and afterwards are taken, such that the delta reflects the amount of testosterone that was bound on SHBG. |
| US09482671B2 |
Proteins expressed by mycobacterium tuberculosis and not by BCG and their use as diagnostic reagents and vaccines
The present invention is directed to reagents useful for generating immune responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and for diagnosing infection and disease in a subject that has been exposed to M. tuberculosis. |
| US09482670B2 |
Rapid detection of analytes in liquid samples
A device for detecting at least one analyte (and in some embodiments two, three, or four or more different analytes) in a liquid sample generally comprises (i) a support having a chamber for receiving a biological fluid therein, wherein said chamber is an elongate chamber having a length axis; (ii) a carrier or agitator in said elongate chamber, said carrier or agitator having opposite end portions and a side portion, the carrier or agitator dimensioned to travel in said chamber along said length axis and/or permit said liquid sample to flow in the chamber therearound, either (or both) thereby agitating the liquid sample; and (iii) at least one anti-analyte antibody coupled to either the carrier and/or the chamber side wall. |
| US09482666B2 |
High throughput selection of specific cell binding and lytic polypeptides
The invention provides methods for identifying cell binding and/or lytic polypeptides that permit production of specific polypeptide therapeutics in a high throughput manner. |
| US09482658B2 |
Test system and method for determining thermal effects of tissue ablation on an ex vivo tissue
A test system and method for determining thermal effects of tissue ablation on an ex vivo tissue includes a power generator, a grounding patch, and a material block configured to emulate an electrical property of a patient. The power generator electrically connects to an electrode to generate an electrical current in the electrode. The grounding patch electrically connects to the power generator, and the material block electrically connects to the grounding patch. Furthermore, the material block includes an ex vivo tissue patch configured to emulate an in vivo tissue of the patient. As such, selectively engaging the electrode to the ex vivo tissue patch electrically connects the electrode to the grounding patch through the material block for electrocauterizing the ex vivo tissue patch. |
| US09482657B2 |
Formulation of complex coating mixtures with effect pigments
A computer implemented method. The method includes obtaining, using a processor, reflectance data from a target coating and calculating, using the processor, a reflectance from the data, wherein calculating comprises performing a calculation using a radiative transfer equation. The method also includes generating, using the processor and based on the reflectance, a coating formulation that is the same or substantially similar in appearance to the target coating. |
| US09482652B2 |
Method of automated calibration and diagnosis of laboratory instruments
Method and system providing an automated workflow for installing and/or calibrating laboratory equipment. The workflow empowers an end user to perform installation and calibration thereby reducing the costs associated with such activities. The automated workflow taught herein, can greatly reduce the incidence of calibration error by providing for verification of certain events during the calibration process. |
| US09482650B2 |
Static and dynamic seals
Described are techniques for use with a sealing member forming a static seal or a dynamic seal at a surface thereof. The sealing member has at least the surface thereof formed from one of VESPEL® SCP 5000 material or VESPEL® SCP 50094 material. |
| US09482646B2 |
Object information acquiring apparatus
Disclosed is an apparatus that transmits an elastic wave to an object and receives a reflected wave, this apparatus including: a transmitting and receiving unit having elements for converting an elastic wave to an electric signal, and being arranged at least in one direction; an element controlling unit that inputs an electric signal to the element and causes the element to transmit an elastic wave; and a detecting unit that detects a reflected wave to be received by the element, wherein the electric signal to be inputted to the element is an encoded pulse signal encoded among the elements, and the detecting unit decodes the reflected wave and executes at different time points aperture synthesis processing of synthesizing the decoded reflected wave with respect to the intersections of two axes at different time points. |
| US09482645B2 |
Ultrasonic detection method and ultrasonic analysis method
Ultrasonic detection methods are disclosed. The method includes providing an ultrasonic detection system having a transmitting phased array device and a receiving phased array device. A phased array wave is transmitted through a revolutionary body from the transmitting phased array device to the receiving phased array device, thereby obtaining ultrasonic detection information about the revolutionary body. In another embodiment, the method includes positioning the transmitting phased array device and the receiving phased array device on a periphery of a turbine rotor, transmitting a phased array wave into the turbine rotor, the phased array wave not reflecting off of a reflecting feature, adjusting the positioning of the transmitting phased array devices on the periphery of the turbine rotor, and transmitting the phased array wave into the turbine rotor, the phased array wave reflecting off of a reflecting feature. The reflected phased array wave is received by the receiving phased array device. |
| US09482643B2 |
Means and methods using paramagnetic agents for in vitro diagnostic applications
A method of detecting a target biochemical molecular species or at least one property correlated with the occurrence of the biochemical molecular species in a sample whose main component is water. The method includes: obtaining a sample whose main component is water; providing Functionalized Paramagnetic Particles (FPP) including a paramagnetic core and a moiety configured to interact with the target biochemical molecular species or with molecules collectively reporting on a property of the target biochemical molecular species; contacting the FPP with the sample; exposing the sample to an applied magnetic field; measuring a change in a nuclear relaxation property of the sample; and correlating the change to the presence of the biochemical molecular species in the sample or to at least one property correlated with the occurrence of the biochemical molecular species in the sample. |
| US09482642B2 |
Fast method for measuring collision cross section of ions utilizing ion mobility spectrometry
The collision cross section (CCS) of a sample ion may be calculated by measuring a total drift time taken by the sample ion to travel through an ion mobility spectrometry drift cell to an ion detector. The CCS may be calculated based on the total drift time measured, and on a proportionality coefficient that defines the time taken by the sample ion to travel through a mobility dominated region between the drift cell and the detector. The proportionality coefficient may be determined from measuring the total drift times of reference ions. Calculation of the CCS of the sample ion may also be based on a proportionality coefficient that defines the time taken by the sample ion to travel through a mobility-independent region where the velocity of the ion depends on the electrostatic field strength, mass and the charge state of the ion. |
| US09482641B2 |
Device and method for detecting chemical and physical phenomena
Provided is a device adapted for detecting chemical and physical phenomena and suitable for high integration, and a method for controlling the detection device. When a plurality of pH-detecting devices are used, a variation in sensitivity occurs in each of the sensing units. The variation in sensitivity can be calibrated using a simple method. The amount of charge (output signal) delivered by each of the sensing units to a standard solution is determined, and the difference between the delivered charge amount and a standard charge amount (standard output signal) delivered by a standard sensing unit is determined. The capacity of the potential well of the sensing unit is changed, or the potential of a TG unit when a charge is delivered is changed, so as to cancel out the difference. |
| US09482640B2 |
Apparatus and method for improved measurements of a monitoring device
Methods and devices for improving measurements of test meter, and in particular for detecting a presence of an electrochemical sensor or strip in the test meter and a start time of an electrochemical reaction, are provided. In one exemplary embodiment of an electrochemical system includes an electrochemical sensor, a test meter, and a circuit. The circuit is configured to form an electrical connection with the electrochemical sensor such that the circuit can detect three distinct voltage ranges. The voltage ranges can be indicative of an absence of the electrochemical sensor, a presence of the sensor that is devoid of a sample, and a presence of the sensor with a sample. Test meters, methods for detecting when a sample starts to fill an electrochemical sensor for establishing when a reaction starts, and circuits for use with electrochemical strips, are also provided. |
| US09482635B2 |
Glucose-measurement systems and methods presenting icons
A glucose measurement system includes a display and a biosensor that provides a signal representative of a glucose level of a fluid sample. A processor determines glucose data values and a rate of change of blood glucose using the signal. The processor can determine a state band and a rate band using the values and rate, and display a state icon colored per the state band and a rate icon colored and shaped per the rate band. The processor does not display any other indication of the determined rate of change or of any of the stored glucose data values. The processor can also display a unified icon shaped per the rate of change, with a prevailing color determined using the values. The processor does not display any other indication of the determined rate of change or of any of the stored glucose data values. Corresponding methods are also described. |
| US09482630B2 |
Multiple-layered energy-integrating detector in a hybrid computed tomography scanner
A CT scanner apparatus includes an X-ray source mounted on a gantry of the CT scanner apparatus. The CT scanner apparatus also includes a first X-ray detector mounted on the gantry opposite to the X-ray source, and configured to detect X-rays emitted from the X-ray source and transmitted through an object. The CT scanner apparatus also includes a fixed, sparse array of second X-ray detectors. Each of the second X-ray detectors includes a plurality of stacked scintillators and a photosensor adjacent to a sidewall of the stacked scintillators in a side-readout configuration. |
| US09482628B2 |
Imaging apparatus, control method therefor, and storage medium
An imaging apparatus determines, based on a frame interval associated with imaging of the object, the number of output values to be measured, and inputs electric signals of a given value to amplifiers to measure the determined number of output values during a time after a readout circuit performs a readout operation for the photoelectric conversion elements of one line and before the readout circuit performs a readout operation for the photoelectric conversion elements of the next one line, calculates a difference between the measured output value and a predetermined reference value, and corrects a measurement value of one line of the object by increasing or decreasing the measurement value by the difference. |
| US09482627B2 |
Tire inspection using microwave imaging methodologies
A method of inspection of a tire was developed using microwave imaging comprising the steps of selecting a plurality of regions from within a tire to be imaged; determining the dielectric properties of the tire components in each of the selected regions in a plurality of frequency bands; selecting a specific location on a tire to be imaged; providing a scanning platform for microwave imaging of the tire; imaging the selected location on a tire using microwave imaging at a plurality of microwave scanning frequencies and at a selected microwave polarization to obtain images of the internal state of the sample; and filtering the images to remove the effects of curvature of the selected location of the tire. |
| US09482625B2 |
Method and system for testing indirect bandgap semiconductor devices using luminescence imaging
Embodiments of methods and systems for identifying or determining spatially resolved properties in indirect bandgap semiconductor devices such as solar cells are described. In one embodiment, spatially resolved properties of an indirect bandgap semiconductor device are determined by externally exciting the indirect bandgap semiconductor device to cause the indirect bandgap semiconductor device to emit luminescence (110), capturing images of luminescence emitted from the indirect bandgap semiconductor device in response to the external excitation (120), and determining spatially resolved properties of the indirect bandgap semiconductor device based on a comparison of relative intensities of regions in one or more of the luminescence images (130). |
| US09482624B2 |
Apparatus for inspecting
The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus, the inspection apparatus including a projection unit configured to project a plurality of lights, each having a different focal length relative to a surface of an inspection object, and an inspection unit configured to inspect a surface of an inspection object using the light reflected from the inspection object, wherein the projection unit is provided with a plurality of lenses configured to project the lights, and curvature of each lens is different, and the focal length is different due to the difference of the curvature, whereby the curve on a surface of the inspection object can be reliably measured. |
| US09482622B2 |
Methods and apparatus for surface classification
In illustrative implementations of this invention, light sources illuminate a surface with multi-spectral, multi-directional illumination that varies in direction, wavelength, coherence and collimation. One or more cameras capture images of the surface while the surface is illuminated under different lighting conditions. One or more computers take, as input, data indicative of or derived from the images, and determine a classification of the surface. Based on the computed classification, the computers output signals to control an I/O device, such that content displayed by the I/O device depends, at least in part, on the computed classification. In illustrative implementations, this invention accurately classifies a wide range of surfaces, including transparent surfaces, specular surfaces, and surfaces with few features. |
| US09482621B2 |
System with card component and chemical detection unit for detection of trace chemicals
A method of rapidly detecting trace materials including biohazards, toxins, radioactive materials, and narcotics in situ is disclosed. A corresponding apparatus is disclosed. A trace of the material is collected on a pad of the card component, collected by swiping the pad on suspected surface or exposure to the suspected air volume. A novel card component is disclosed that when inserted in a chemical detection unit (CDU), releases reaction chemicals from flexible walled capsules in desired sequence. The exposed pad containing trace material and chemicals are heated in the chemical detection unit to produce a spectral pattern that is analyzed by the optical electronics in the CDU and results are displayed, stored and/or transmitted over a communications network. |
| US09482620B2 |
Portable particle spectrometer
Methods and systems for characterizing particles in an aerosol are disclosed. A system includes a collection container that utilizes the principles of elutriation to collect particles of selected aerodynamic diameter ranges within a measurement region. A particle detector is used to detect and characterize particles that have settled into the measurement region. |
| US09482618B2 |
Single nanoparticle having a nanogap between a core material and a shell material, and preparation method thereof
The present invention is to provide a nanoparticle, which can be used effectively for Raman analysis based on very high amplification effect of electromagnetic signal by plasomonic coupling of nanogap formation inside thereof and high reproducibility, and which includes core and surrounding shell with nanogap formation between the same and the method of synthesis thereof. The present invention is also to provide the method for detecting the analyte using the above nanoparticle and the analyte detection kit including the above nanoparticle. |
| US09482617B2 |
Method for optical detection of surveillance and sniper personnel
A method comprising: providing a device for detecting a biological signature behind a glass surface using non-visible light is provided. A method of emitting one or more pulses of energy at a specific wavelength over a field of illumination towards a target area, filtering out one or more returning wavelengths from the target area, and determining, based on the filtering, if a combination of a fluorescence wavelength and a source wavelength is present, is also provided. An associated system is further provided. |
| US09482615B2 |
Single-molecule detection system and methods
Embodiments encompass a single-molecule detection system and methods of using the detection system to detect an object. Further, embodiments encompass a detection system comprising a movable light coupler, a waveguide, and a light detector. Embodiments further encompass methods of single-molecule detection, including methods of single-molecule nucleic acid sequencing. |
| US09482611B2 |
Method and apparatus for scanning detection
An apparatus for scanning and detecting analytes in real time as they move through a separation conduit is provided. The apparatus may include a detector mounted on a scanner containing a separation conduit positions under the scanner such that the scanner may move back and forth along the conduit, producing time and space data of the column as the analyte moves through and providing information regarding elution of the analyte in real time. A method for real time analysis of analytes as they move through a separation conduit is also provided. |
| US09482610B2 |
Techniques for matching spectra
A method of controlling processing of a substrate includes measuring a spectrum reflected from the substrate, for each partition of a plurality of partitions of the measured spectrum, computing a partition value based on the measured spectrum within the partition to generate a plurality of partition values, for each reference spectrum signature of a plurality of reference spectrum signatures, determining a membership function for each partition, for each partition, computing a membership value based on the membership function for the partition and the partition value for the partition to generate a plurality of groups of membership values with each group of the plurality of groups associated with a reference spectrum signature, selecting a best matching reference spectrum signature from the plurality of reference spectra signatures based on the plurality of groups of membership values, and determining a characterizing value associated with the best matching reference spectrum signature. |
| US09482608B1 |
WGM-based molecular sensors
The present invention concerns an optical molecular sensing device and related method. The optical molecular sensing device has an optical resonator adapted to be connected to an excitation source. The excitation source may be a laser operating at a 2.7-2.8 um spectral range. The optical molecular sensing device has an emission spectrum comprised of a plurality wavelengths. Also included are a detection unit and a RF frequency counter to detect at least one RF beat note resulting from detecting the emission spectrum of the optical resonator. A change in frequency of the RF beat note indicates the presence of a target molecule. |
| US09482604B2 |
Equi-biaxial membrane stretcher
A system for and method of stretching a membrane is provided. The system has a top plate and a bottom plate that are in parallel with each other and a plurality of flexible v trusses. The top plate is configured to move vertically. The v trusses are placed in circle and have arms pointing to the center. There is a clamp for each arm for clamping a membrane. When external force is applied to push the top plate towards the bottom plate, the force bends the trusses, which is translated to the horizontal displacement of the trusses with arms. As the trusses move outwards, the clamped membrane is stretched. |
| US09482599B1 |
Water testing method and apparatus
An automated water testing apparatus and to a method of using the apparatus to test the amounts of dissolved salts and other solids in a water sample, where the apparatus includes a specially constructed sample bottle which preferably has a flexible wall and is fitted with a filter cap having a mesh top wall through which sample water can be poured to remove suspended matter, several beakers, a desiccator enclosure, a computer containing a database and an inventive computer program for executing method steps, and several devices in communication with and controlled by the computer and the program for executing the method, these devices preferably including a conductivity meter having a meter electrode, a robotic arm having a gripper, an analytical scale, a top loader balance scale and an oven. |
| US09482598B2 |
Axle alignment sensor assembly for steering system of a machine
An axle alignment sensor assembly, which includes an enclosure, an oscillator, a frequency detector, an output switch driver, a ferrite component, and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component, is disclosed. The oscillator is positioned at the sensing end and is configured to generate a magnetic field. The frequency detector is positioned at the sensing end and is configured to detect the magnetic field. The output switch driver is in communication with the frequency detector and is configured to generate and deliver an output based on detection by the frequency detector. The ferrite component is positioned proximal to the connecting end and is configured to prevent electromagnetic interference. The ESD protection component is configured to protect the axle alignment sensor assembly in overvoltage conditions. The oscillator, the frequency detector, the output switch driver, the ferrite component, and the ESD protection component are encased within the enclosure. |
| US09482591B2 |
Methods for gas leak detection and localization in populated areas using horizontal analysis
Improved gas leak detection from moving platforms is provided. Automatic horizontal spatial scale analysis can be performed in order to distinguish a leak from background levels of the measured gas. Source identification can be provided by using isotopic ratios and/or chemical tracers to distinguish gas leaks from other sources of the measured gas. Multi-point measurements combined with spatial analysis of the multi-point measurement results can provide leak source distance estimates. These methods can be practiced individually or in any combination. |
| US09482590B2 |
Oil transporting vaporizer for a smoke generating apparatus to detect leaks in a fluid system
An oil transporting vaporizer for a smoke generating apparatus to generate smoke to be supplied to a closed system to be tested for leaks. In a preferred embodiment, the vaporizer includes a hollow tube that is manufactured from a high temperature, fire resistant, porous material (e.g., ceramic). The vaporizer stands in a reservoir of oil such that some of the porous tube is filled with oil from the reservoir. A heater wire surrounds the outside of the porous tube above the oil within the tube. A gas (e.g., air) is blown into the porous tube and towards the oil to cause a mixture of air and gas to move through the tube. Because of its porosity, the air/oil mixture permeates the tube in the vicinity of the heater wire so as to be vaporized into smoke when the heater wire is energized. |
| US09482582B2 |
Inspection system with temperature measurement device
An inspection system, in particular, a sewer inspection system is provided, comprising a temperature measurement device, whereby the temperature measurement device is a pyrometer for contact-free measurement of a surface temperature of an object, in particular, a pipe wall. Advantageously, the pyrometer is configured as an infra-red temperature sensor. |
| US09482581B2 |
Bolometric detector with a compensation bolometer having an enhanced thermalization
A bolometric detector includes a substrate; bolometric detection microbridges suspended above the substrate and thermally insulated from the substrate; bolometric compensation microbridges suspended above the substrate and thermalized to the substrate; and a read circuit formed in the substrate to apply a biasing to the detection microbridges and to the compensation microbridges and to form differences between signals generated by detection microbridges and signals generated by compensation microbridges under the effect of the applied biasing. Each detection microbridge and each compensation microbridge includes electrically-conductive anchoring nails connected to the read circuit, a membrane attached to the anchoring nails above the substrate, and a thermometric element arranged in the membrane. The detector further includes thermal short-circuit elements between the membrane of each compensation microbridge and the substrate. |
| US09482579B2 |
Systems and methods for planar temperature measurement
Various embodiments include systems and apparatuses adapted for detecting two-dimensional turbomachine exhaust temperature. In some embodiments, a system includes a two-dimensional grid sized to mount within an exhaust path of a gas turbomachine, a radiation detection device for detecting radiation emitted from the two-dimensional grid at a plurality of points on the two-dimensional grid, the radiation detection device being mountable proximate the exhaust path and the two-dimensional grid and at least one computing device connected with the radiation detection device, the at least one computing device configured to generate a planar map of the temperature of the exhaust from the gas turbomachine based upon the intensity of the radiation emitted from two-dimensional grid detected at the plurality of points on the two-dimensional grid. |
| US09482569B2 |
Estimation of propellant remaining in a satellite
An amount of propellant remaining in an orbiting satellite can be estimated in a more accurate manner than is possible with conventional approached. Pressure and temperature telemetry data received from the satellite can be analyzed using a maximum likelihood estimation approach that reconstructs a predicted tank pressure signal using the temperature data and determines a pressurant volume necessary to make the reconstructed pressure signal match the received pressure signal. Drift of the pressure data received from pressure transducers in the satellite can also be addressed using the current subject matter, as can issues including but not limited to inaccessible propellant due to satellite spin, tank expansion under pressure, and the like. Independent determinations of the amounts of propellant remaining can be made using moment of inertia calculations in situations in which an axis of spin of the satellite is known a priori. |
| US09482566B2 |
Method and device for localization of data loggers on supply lines with a readout device
A method for the deployment and retrieval of data loggers, which are deployed in a first step at separate locations on a supply network having numerous branching pipelines, e.g. for drinking water, which record, in a second step, at least the flow sounds of the medium flowing at the deployed locations, and which, in a third step, are read out by a vehicle driving past, having a readout device disposed therein, wherein the reading device is allocated a GPS module, and that when the data loggers are deployed at the locations assigned to them on the pipeline, the current GPS locations of the data loggers at said locations are stored in the readout device. |
| US09482564B2 |
Magnetic-inductive flow meter device having a plurality of flowmeter units, power supply and evaluation units provided in a common housing
A magnetic-inductive flowmeter, having a plurality of functional units and a housing common to all the functional units, wherein each functional unit has a measuring tube, a magnetic field generating device, and two measuring electrodes, and wherein a virtual connecting line of the two measuring electrodes extends at least substantially at right angles to the direction of the magnetic field penetrating the measuring tube at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube. In the housing, there is a common medium feed connection for the measuring tubes of all the functional units, a common power supply for the magnetic field generating device of all the functional units, and a common evaluation unit for the measuring electrodes of all the functional units. The magnetic field generating device has a field coil adjoined on both sides by a magnetic field guide part extending at right angles to the coil axis. |
| US09482563B2 |
Real time measurements of fluid volume and flow rate using two pressure transducers
To provide accurate determinations of volumetric flow rate and thus of total liquid volume transported over a given time period, two pressure transducers are disposed a predetermined distance apart along a conduit. Precise pressure measurement readings are generated from which volumetric flow rate can be derived with accuracy. Integration of the volumetric flow rate over time yields an improved measure of the total liquid volume that has flowed through the conduit during the respective temporal interval. The two pressure transducers are disposed along the conduit a predetermined distance apart with no obstruction or restriction in the conduit between the transducers. A controller can be used to determine the volumetric flow rate using the Hagen-Poiseuille Equation. |
| US09482559B2 |
Method for improving scan time and sensitivity in touch sensitive user interface device
System and method for optimizing the consumption of power while maintaining performance in capacitive sensor arrays. A limited sensing area is used to improve the update rate and sensitivity of a row/column array of capacitive sensors. According to one embodiment, a method is provided for scanning a plurality of capacitive sensors by: detecting a stimulus in the field of capacitive sensors, scanning the field of capacitive sensors to determine the position of the stimulus. Once the position of the stimulus is determined, a subsection of the field comprising window corresponding to the position of the stimulus remains activated while the remaining sensors in the field are deactivated. |
| US09482557B2 |
Sensor unit for sensing an angular position of a rotating element with respect to a fixed element and bearing assembly comprising such a sensor unit
A sensor unit for sensing the angular position of a rotating element with respect to a fixed element includes a target fastened to the rotating element and a given number of sensing cells. Each sensing cell is connected to a connection device adapted to provide power supply, transmit data delivered by the sensing cells and connect each sensing cell to the ground. The sensor unit provides an output connector for electrically connecting the sensor unit to a reception device, a power supply system and the ground, via a connection cable having at least two connection wires. The connector includes, for each wire of the connection cable, a connection pin having a clamp portion adapted to receive an end of the wire, and a plug portion adapted to make a pressing contact with the connection device. |
| US09482551B1 |
Airspace performance depictions using vertical and lateral guidance bars
A system for presenting performance attributes on a display unit on an aircraft is disclosed. The system may include a communication module for receiving the RNP for the aircraft, a navigation module for determining the position of the aircraft as well as its ANP, and a processing module for generating an integrated graphical representation of these performance attributes. The processing module may generate a cross-sectional depiction of a virtual tunnel based on the RNP and the position of the aircraft, wherein the cross-sectional depiction may include a first containment limit indicator and a second containment limit indicator. The processing module may also generate an aircraft position indicator, wherein the aircraft position indicator may indicate the position of the aircraft as well as the ANP of the aircraft. The cross-sectional depiction of the tunnel and the aircraft position indicator may be displayed on a display unit in a two-dimensional manner. |
| US09482546B2 |
Method and system for providing route information to a destination location
A method for providing route information is to be implemented by a system coupled to an electronic device. In the method, the system is programmed to: provide an online video-playing interface including a first frame that displays primary video media, and a second frame that displays secondary information media, which is visually recognizable and associated with the primary video media; obtain, upon receipt of a trigger signal associated with selection of the secondary information media, a current location of the electronic device and a destination location associated with the secondary information media; and plan a route from the current location to the destination location, and transmit the route to the electronic device for display. |
| US09482542B2 |
Stochastic route planning in public transport
Embodiments relate to generating a route plan. A method of generating a route plan is provided. The method receives a route planning request that includes a starting location, a destination location, a desired arrival time, and a set of user preferences. The method obtains transport service information that includes schedules of a plurality of transport services provided for a geographic region including the starting location and the destination location. The method determines a set of transport services for each of a plurality of possible intermediate locations between the starting and destination locations. The sets of transportation services provide a maximum probability of arriving at the destination location before the desired arrival time as long as a user takes a first-arriving transportation among the set of transport services at each intermediate location while traveling from the starting location to the destination location. |
| US09482537B2 |
Displaying laylines
Various implementations described herein are directed to displaying laylines. In one implementation, a method may include receiving marine electronics data at a marine electronics device disposed on a vessel. The method may also include receiving a navigational location. The method may further include calculating one or more laylines based on the navigational location and the marine electronics data. The method may additionally include displaying a vessel marker representing the vessel, a compass scale, and the one or more laylines on a display screen of the marine electronics device, where the vessel marker, the compass scale, and the one or more laylines are integrated on the display screen. |
| US09482534B2 |
Gyroscope shock and disturbance detection circuit
The invention relates to integrated circuits, and more particularly, to systems, devices and methods of integrating a gyro sensing circuit with a gyroscope to detect a shock or a disturbance, and accurately differentiate rotation-based sense signals from noises introduced by the shock or disturbance. The gyro sensing circuit may be implemented in a differential or non-differential demodulation scheme, and comprises at least one demodulation unit and a peak detector. The at least one demodulation unit demodulates a gyro output signal provided by the gyroscope with a reference signal. In a demodulated gyro output signal, a shock signal or a gyro disturbance signal is substantially isolated out from interested gyro sense signals that are used to sense a rate of rotation. A peak detector samples the modulated gyro output signal, determines whether the signal exceeds a threshold level VTH and outputs a shock flag indicating a corresponding determination result. |
| US09482533B2 |
Vibrating reed, angular velocity sensor, electronic device, and moving object
The vibrating reed includes a first main surface and a second main surface that face each other in the thickness direction of a piezoelectric body and a detection unit that vibrates along the thickness direction when detecting. The detection unit includes a groove of which a groove bottom is positioned at a position beyond a midline between the first main surface and the second main surface in the depth direction from an opening formed in the first main surface, an inside surface electrode that is formed on an inside surface facing the inside of the groove, an outside surface electrode that is formed on an outside surface which is opposite the inside surface with the piezoelectric body interposed there between, and a pair of groove bottom electrodes that is provided further on the groove bottom at an interval than the midline and face inside the groove. |
| US09482529B2 |
Three-dimensional coordinate scanner and method of operation
A noncontact optical three-dimensional measuring device that includes a first projector, a first camera, a second projector, and a second camera; a processor electrically coupled to the first projector, the first camera, the second projector, and the second camera; and computer readable media which, when executed by the processor, causes the first digital signal to be collected at a first time and the second digital signal to be collected at a second time different than the first time and determines three-dimensional coordinates of a first point on the surface based at least in part on the first digital signal and the first distance and determines three-dimensional coordinates of a second point on the surface based at least in part on the second digital signal and the second distance. |
| US09482528B2 |
Systems and methods for persistent surveillance and large volume data streaming
In general, the present disclosure relates to persistent surveillance (PS), wide medium and small in area, and large volume data streaming (LVSD), e.g., from orbiting aircraft or spacecraft, and PS/LVSD specific data compression. In certain aspects, the PS specific data or LVSD compression and image alignment may utilize registration of images via accurate knowledge of camera position, pointing, calibration, and a 3D model of the surveillance area. Photogrammetric systems and methods to compress PS specific data or LVSD while minimizing loss are provided. In certain embodiments, to achieve data compression while minimizing loss, a depth model is generated, and imagery is registered to the depth model. |
| US09482520B2 |
Method for measuring flatness of sheet, device for measuring flatness of sheet, and production method for steel sheet
A method for measuring flatness of a sheet includes acquiring a pattern image by projecting a light and dark pattern composed of light portions and dark portions onto a surface of the sheet, which is traveling between adjacent rolling stands, from a projection unit situated between the rolling stands, and capturing an image of the light and dark pattern with an image capture unit situated between the rolling stands, and measuring the flatness by analyzing the acquired pattern image. Arrangement parameters L0, α, β, hc and hp satisfy the following mathematical expression (1). 0.75 L 0 ≤ tan α + tan β 1 / h C - 1 / h P ≤ 1.5 L 0 ( 1 ) |
| US09482517B2 |
Optical position-measuring device
An optical position-measuring device includes a measuring standard as well as a scanning unit movable relative to it along at least one measuring direction, a scanning beam path being formed between the measuring standard and scanning unit and being used to generate displacement-dependent signals. A protective cap is disposed in a manner allowing movement along an axis perpendicular to the measuring-standard plane such that in at least one operating mode, the protective cap for the most part surrounds the scanning beam path between the scanning unit and measuring standard. |
| US09482516B2 |
Magnification compensating sighting systems and methods
A method is used to determine an aiming point for a sighting system used by a shooter to shoot a target. The method includes receiving a range signal that corresponds to a distance from the shooter to the target. A first position signal is received from a magnification system sensor. A first magnification setting based at least in part on the first position signal is then determined. Thereafter, a first aiming point based at least in part on both of the range signal and the first magnification setting is determined. |
| US09482513B2 |
Apparatus and methods for optical coherence tomography and two-photon luminescence imaging
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include a combined catheter-based optical coherence tomography-two-photon luminescence (OCT-TPL) imaging system. Exemplary embodiments further include methods to detect, and further characterize the distribution of cellular components (e.g., macrophage, collagen/elastin fiber, lipid droplet) in thin-cap fibroatheromas with high spatial resolution in vivo. |
| US09482507B2 |
Method of underground rock blasting
A method of blasting rock at an underground blast site in which boreholes (11a, b, c) are drilled in a rock mass 10 from a drive defining face 12, each borehole is loaded with at least one charge of explosive material (13a-c, 14a-c, 15a-c), at least one detonator is placed in operative association with each charge, and a sequence of at least two initiation events is conducted to blast the rock mass, in each of which only some of the charges are initiated, by sending firing signals to only the detonators associated with said charges and in which each initiation event is a discrete user-controlled initiation event. In one of the at least two initiation events a stranded portion of the rock mass such as a pillar is created that has already been drilled and charged, and the stranded portion of the rock mass is blasted in a subsequent one or more of the at least two initiation events without personnel accessing said stranded portion. First explosive charges (13a, b, c and 15a, b, c) may be blasted in the one initiation event, leaving a pillar of stranded ore with the preloaded borehole 11b extending through it. The detonators may be wireless. |
| US09482501B2 |
Toy arrow for use with toy bow
A toy arrow that has a shaft with a head end and a tail end is described herein. A head is associated with the head end of the shaft. Fins are associated with the tail end of the shaft. Extending hooks extend outward from the sides of the head. |
| US09482500B1 |
Maritime emergency cable cutter
A marine cable cutter is provided for wirelessly severing wire responsive to an electromagnetic command signal. The cutter includes an explosive package for wrapping around the wire, and a clamshell case for containing the package around the wire. The package includes a wireless receiver to receive the command signal, an electric pulse generator triggered by the receiver, an explosive initiated by the generator, and a platform for containing the receiver, generator and explosive. The clamshell case includes a pair of envelopes connected along mutual first edges by a hinge and mutual second edges by respective clamps. The envelopes pivot on the hinge to open and receive the package with disposal of the wire therein, and subsequently to close and secure by the clamps. The envelopes can be composed of sheet metal with the clamps being flanges with aligned holes for receiving bolt fasteners. |
| US09482499B1 |
Explosively formed projectile (EFP) with cavitation pin
The invention is an explosively formed projectile (EFP). On detonation of an explosive charge, an explosively formed projectile is formed from two separate metal elements, an open-poled dished liner and a cavitation pin. The open-poled dished liner is made of a metal more dense than a metal of the cavitation pin. The cavitation pin lies on the open-poled dished liner longitudinal axis and in contact therewith. The cavitation pin has a truncated right conical shape with a base diameter to length ratio of 0.7:1 to 1.5:1. The ratio of the open-poled dished liner diameter:cavitation pin fore portion major base diameter is 2:1 to 4:1. Upon detonation, the cavitation pin leads the explosively forged liner in the explosively formed projectile assembly. The leading pin causes cavitation in water resulting in an increase in the velocity of the explosively formed projectile. |
| US09482496B1 |
Wall-mounted nonlethal device for defending against intruders
A system for defending against an intruder includes a building having a wall dividing first and second spaces and a nonlethal device selectively operable through the wall. The nonlethal device includes an enclosure mounted to the wall and having an access door for selectively accessing an interior compartment of the enclosure from the first space, a container of a nonlethal chemical weapon, such as a lachrymatory agent, having an outlet and located within the enclosure, a conduit extending from the container to the second space through the wall and having an inlet in fluid flow communication with the outlet of the container of nonlethal chemical weapon, and a valve operable to selectively release the nonlethal chemical weapon from the container and through the conduit to the second space to form a cloud of the nonlethal chemical weapon within the second space. |
| US09482495B2 |
Armoured vehicle body shell with smaller struts
A body shell of an armored vehicle includes a front face carrying a bulletproof windscreen projecting towards an outside of the body shell, at least one side wall including an opening, the side wall being integral with the front face at a strut that is defined by a part of the side wall included between an edge of the opening and a rim of the side wall situated furthest outwards at the front of the vehicle. In the armored vehicle body shell, the strut extends beyond the front face towards the outside of the body shell, and the edge of the opening is situated near the front face so that a junction between the strut and the front face of the body shell is at the vicinity of the edge of the opening which forms a rear edge of the strut. |
| US09482494B1 |
Bullet resistant shield for electric power equipment
A bullet resistant shield for electric power equipment constructed from standardized modular sections configured for easy erection in the field into walls and enclosures. The modular sections may be constructed at a factory and transported to the desired location where the sections are assembled together into walls and enclosures. The modules are sized for transportation by trucks over public roadway, rail, barge and so forth. Concrete foundations may be installed prior to arrival of the modular sections to ready the site for erection of the shied structure upon arrival of the modular sections. Unlike conventional bullet resistant enclosures, these sections provide adequate ventilation to avoid overheating of air-cooled electric power equipment, such as large substation transformers. One or more electric fans may be mounted in the section to provide forced air ventilation. The wall may be positioned to allow walk-up maintenance access without the use of doors. |
| US09482492B2 |
Ballistic material
A polyurea hybrid ballistic armor formed from novel cured reaction products of various diamines and polyester diols with isocyanate curing agents. The cured reaction product can absorb large amounts of energy from ballistic projectiles, and when various hard granular particles are embedded within the cured reaction product, a strike plate effect can be realized, allowing the polyurea hybrid ballistic armor to defeat ballistic projectiles. The polyurea hybrid ballistic armor can additionally be utilized to add additional layers of protection to existing armor systems. |
| US09482490B2 |
Small smart weapon and weapon system employing the same
A weapon and weapon system, and methods of manufacturing and operating the same. In one embodiment, the weapon includes a warhead including destructive elements and a guidance section with a seeker configured to guide the weapon to a target. The seeker includes a detector configured to receive a distorted signal impinging on an objective lens from the target, memory configured to store target criteria and a correction map, and a processor configured to provide a correction signal based on the distorted signal, the target criteria and the correction map to guide the weapon to the target. |
| US09482487B2 |
Paraclip adapter
An adapter for a QD socket is disclosed. The adapter has a connection post having a plurality of tabs movable relative to each other between a first configuration and a second configuration. The first configuration defines a maximum effective outer diameter of the connection post, and the second configuration defines a minimum effective outer diameter of the connection post. A method of modifying a quick disconnect attachment is also disclosed. |
| US09482482B1 |
Safe and secure firearm mount
An apparatus for mounting and locking on a wall a firearm such as a rifle or shotgun comprising a housing assembly for supporting a firearm, a trigger and receiver guard assembly for preventing access to the trigger and receiver of the firearm, and a means for pinning the trigger and receiver guard assembly and firearm within the housing assembly while in a locked position. |
| US09482480B2 |
Bolt hold-open system and method
The bolt hold-open system is a firearm bolt locking or holding mechanism for an AK-47 or similar firearm capable of automatically keeping the bolt of the firearm in an open position when the firearm magazine is empty. The bolt hold-open system includes a locking assembly and a modified magazine. The bolt hold-open system also provides a manual control for keeping the bolt in an open position and for releasing the bolt. The system prevents the bolt carrier from closing while there is an empty magazine in the gun, but can be easily activated to release the bolt when the magazine is removed or a non-empty magazine is in the magazine receiver. The system requires minimal modifications to the firearm and magazine and is easily adaptable to firearms similar to the AK-47 that fire ammunition in a wide range of calibers and configurations. |
| US09482479B1 |
Ambidextrous latchless charging handle with gas redirection
A charging handle for a firearm having a receiver has an elongated rod running from a front end to a rear end at which a crossbar portion is connected to the rod. The crossbar portion is laterally situated to each side of the elongated rod and features redirection channels on both the top and bottom surfaces and is sized, shaped, and adapted to be gripped by a shooter using the firearm. The charging handle has flexible tabs on either side of the elongated rod for securement of the charging handle within groove on the firearm receiver. Rearward force by a user on either the left, right, or both sides of the crossbar portion user disengages the tabs from the grooves and releases the charging handle thereby allowing the charging handle to freely move along the firearm receiver. |
| US09482477B2 |
Nano-thermal agents for enhanced interfacial thermal conductance
A thermal interface material (TIM) using high thermal conductivity nano-particles, particularly ones with large aspect ratios, for enhancing thermal transport across boundary or interfacial layers that exist at bulk material interfaces is disclosed. The nanoparticles do not need to be used in a fluid carrier or as filler material within a bonding adhesive to enhance thermal transport, but simply in a dry solid state. The nanoparticles may be equiaxed or acicular in shape with large aspect ratios like nanorods and nanowires. |
| US09482474B2 |
Radiative transfer and power control with fractal metamaterial and plasmonics
Systems according to the present disclosure provide one or more surfaces that function as heat or power radiating surfaces for which at least a portion of the radiating surface includes or is composed of “fractal cells” placed sufficiently closed close together to one another so that a surface (plasmonic) wave causes near replication of current present in one fractal cell in an adjacent fractal cell. A fractal of such a fractal cell can be of any suitable fractal shape and may have two or more iterations. The fractal cells may lie on a flat or curved sheet or layer and be composed in layers for wide bandwidth or multibandwidth transmission. The area of a surface and its number of fractals determines the gain relative to a single fractal cell. The boundary edges of the surface may be terminated resistively so as to not degrade the cell performance at the edges. |
| US09482473B2 |
Gelatinous latent heat storage member with benard cell regions
An object of the present invention is to provide a readily produced and easily handled heat storage member. The heat storage member 1 has a rectangular plane surface of, for example, 15 (cm)×20 (cm), and has a thickness of, for example, 10 to 15 mm. The heat storage member 1 includes a gelatinous latent heat storage material 12, and a large number of highly heat conductive fillers 14 dispersed in the latent heat storage material 12. The highly heat conductive fillers 14 are mixed in the latent heat storage material 12 with a bias in dispersion density. In the rectangular plane surface of the heat storage member 1, a periodic pattern is formed in combination of cellular (cell-like) regions 10, which are demarcated by, for example, hexagonal contour lines 16 and which are periodically arrayed in the vertical and horizontal directions. |
| US09482471B2 |
Melt metallurgical installation comprising a charging element
A melt metallurgical installation has a melting furnace for melting scrap metal and a charging region for the melting furnace which is located above the melting furnace. The installation further has a charging element, which has been filled with scrap metal intended for the melting furnace and can be moved in a movement direction into the charging region where it can be emptied and then moved again, in the empty state, against the movement direction out of the charging region. The charging region is enclosed by a hood such that the charging region, including the charging element which has been placed in the charging region, is closed at the top and on the sides. The hood has at least one upper extraction opening through which the waste gases and dust developing in the hood can be extracted out of the hood. |
| US09482468B2 |
Repeatable heat-treating methods and apparatus
A first heat-treating method involves monitoring at least one thermal efficiency parameter associated with an irradiance system configured to produce an irradiance flash incident on a surface of a workpiece, and automatically updating control information used by the irradiance system to produce the irradiance flash, in response to the monitoring of the thermal efficiency parameter. A second method involves predicting a heating effect of an irradiance flash to be incident upon a surface of a workpiece, in response to a measurement of a heating parameter of the surface, and pre-adjusting the irradiance flash, in response to the predicted heating effect. A third method involves measuring a temperature of a surface of a workpiece during an initial portion of an irradiance flash incident on the surface, and controlling a power of a remaining portion of the irradiance flash, in response to the temperature. |
| US09482467B2 |
Method for the removal and condensation of vapors
A method for removal and condensation of vapors from within an enclosed space is disclosed. An enclosed space containing hydrocarbonaceous material is surrounded by an insulative permeable layer having a lowering temperature gradient between the inner surface and the outer surfaces. The insulative layer may also be covered by an impermeable layer. Heating the material in the enclosed space causes the formation of vapors at a positive pressure within the enclosed space. Vapors pass through the inner surface of the insulative permeable layer and contact the permeable materials and are condensed by the lowering temperature within the insulative layer. The condensate liquid passes downwardly through the insulative layer and is then collected. The positive pressure within the heated enclosed space and the condensation and lowering of pressure and temperature within the insulative layer serves to draw additional vapors from within the enclosed space into the insulative layer which facilitates condensation and subsequent collection. |
| US09482461B2 |
Coolant heat exchanger having a scraper for each heat exchange interface surface
The heat exchanger is adapted for cooling a coolant (e.g., water), used to cool a device or an area (e.g., building interior), such as during periods of peak energy cost and usage, to save energy and energy costs. The heat exchanger includes a coolant storage tank with one or more refrigerant circulators in contact with the floor of the tank. The circulators use a refrigerant having a freezing temperature colder than the coolant, with coolant on the floor of the tank forming a layer of ice thereon. A rotary scraper extends up through the tank floor from each circulator, with the scrapers operating to remove the thin layer of ice from the floor as the ice forms. The resulting ice chips are relatively small and thin, thus having a relatively large surface area for their volume in order to maximize melting and rapid cooling of the coolant. |
| US09482460B2 |
Truck having intermediate heat exchanging circuit between cabin and cargo container
A truck includes a refrigerated compartment that is equipped with a dedicated refrigerating system, and a driver cabin. The driver cabin is equipped with a least a first heat exchanger adapted to cool an air flow directed to the cabin. The truck further includes a compartment heat exchanger located in the refrigerated compartment and adapted to cool a heat transfer liquid sent to the first heat exchanger through a heat transfer liquid connecting the first heat exchanger to the compartment heat exchanger. |
| US09482451B2 |
Adaptive trans-critical CO2 cooling systems for aerospace applications
A cooling system includes a heat exchanger through which a refrigerant flows, and which rejects heat to a fluid, an evaporator, a first circuit having an expansion device, a second circuit having an expansion machine coupled to a compressor, and a set of valves arranged to direct the refrigerant through the first circuit, the second circuit, or both the first and second circuits based on ambient conditions. |
| US09482449B2 |
Support for solar energy collectors
A solar energy collection system can include support devices configured to accommodate misalignment of components during assembly. For example, the system can include piles fixed to the earth and an adjustable bearing assembly at the upper end of the pile. The adjustable bearing assembly can include at least one of a vertical adjustment device, a lateral adjustment device and an angular adjustment device. The solar energy collection system can also include a plurality of solar energy collection device pre-wired together and mounted to a support member so as to form modular units. The system can also include enhanced supports for wire trays extending between rows of solar energy collection devices. |
| US09482445B2 |
Heat pump water heater with heat utilization balance processor and heat utilization balance processor thereof
A heat pump water heater with a heat utilization balance processor and a heat utilization balance processor thereof relate to a fluid heater using a heat pump and an accessory thereof, the heat pump water heater comprises the heat utilization balance processor; which comprises a housing, a heat exchange pipe, a main heat exchange cavity, a sub heat exchange cavity and a steam-liquid separator. The heat utilization balance exchange is carried out for a working substance through the sub heat exchange cavity of the heat utilization balance processor during a condensing process and an evaporation process, so as to carry out the heat comprehensive utilization, thus increasing condensing effect, decreasing high pressure and exhaust temperature, decreasing the power consumption of a compressor, and increasing the energy efficient of a unit. |
| US09482441B2 |
Composite molded body and method for manufacturing same
A composite molded body includes a main portion formed of resin, a ventilation channel configured within the main portion, a gas permeable membrane, and two inserted members embedded in the main portion. The ventilation channel has a first ventilation path P1 extending in a direction intersecting the gas permeable membrane and has an opening end leading to the external air, and a second ventilation path extending in a direction different from the direction in which the first ventilation path extends and having an opening end leading to the internal space of the casing. The inserted member forms a portion of the second ventilation path and has a membrane supporting portion formed with a through hole. The through hole constitutes a portion of the first ventilation path, and communicates with the internal space of the casing via the second ventilation path. |
| US09482437B2 |
Front frame for a cooking device
A front frame for a cooking appliance having at least one first cooking chamber which has a loading opening and a cooking chamber door for closing the loading opening. The front frame includes at least one first front frame unit. The at least one first front frame unit substantially completely frames the loading opening of the first cooking chamber. At an outer edge region of the at least one first front frame unit, a coupling region having at least one coupling device is formed at which an additional front frame unit can be coupled. |
| US09482434B2 |
Methods relating to downstream fuel and air injection in gas turbines
A method for use in a gas turbine engine. The method includes the steps of: configuring a downstream injection system within the interior flowpath that includes two injection stages, a first stage and a second stage, wherein the first stage and the second stage are each axially spaced from the other; and circumferentially positioning the injectors of the first stage and the second stage based on: a) a characteristic of an anticipated combustion flow occurring just upstream of the first stage during a mode of operation; and b) the characteristic of an anticipated combustion flow just downstream of the second stage given an anticipated effect of the air and fuel injection from the first stage and the second stage. |
| US09482433B2 |
Multi-swirler fuel/air mixer with centralized fuel injection
A gas turbine combustor assembly has a fuel/air mixer assembly with a plurality of fuel/air mixer elements. Each fuel/air mixer element defines an air flow passage therethrough. A fuel injector is coupled to the fuel/air mixer assembly. The fuel injector has a tip portion with a plurality of fuel outlets arranged to direct fuel into the air flow passages of the air/fuel mixer elements. Each of the fuel/air mixer elements has at least one outlet arranged to supply fuel to the element. |
| US09482432B2 |
Gas turbine engine combustor with integrated combustor vane having swirler
A combustor section is provided for a gas turbine engine. The combustor section may include an outer liner panel, an inner liner panel and a bulkhead, which is arranged with the outer and the inner liner panels to form an annular combustion chamber. The combustor section may also include a swirler assembly and a combustor vane. The swirler assembly may be configured with the bulkhead. The combustor vane may extend at least partially into said combustion chamber, wherein the combustor vane is circumferentially aligned with the swirler assembly. |
| US09482431B2 |
Radially firing igniter
The invention pertains to ignition systems and more particularly to spark igniters for burners and burner pilots. A spark igniter is provide, which is configured so that the spark gap is on the outer side surface of the spark igniter. |
| US09482430B2 |
Hot air generator burner with interchangeable lighter
A heat-shrink gun in which an ignition voltage of the gaseous mixture is generated by a piezoelectric lighter (12), under the action of a trigger (8) when it is moved from a waiting position (8A) to a lighting position, characterized in that the trigger can also assume a loading position (8B), in which it free access (DC) to a working housing for the lighter. |
| US09482425B2 |
LED lamp heat dissipating structure
An LED lamp heat dissipating structure includes a first cover, a second cover, a heat dissipating device, and an LED light source. The first cover and the second cover cover each other to form a hollow space. The heat dissipating device is disposed inside the first cover and the second cover. The LED light source is disposed below the second cover and is in heat-conducting contact with the heat dissipating device. The heat dissipating device further includes a plurality of cover heat pipes. Each of the cover heat pipes has a heated end and a cooled end. The heated end is connected at the heat conducting base. The cooled end extends along the first flange of the first cover and the second flange of the second cover, respectively, so as to be sandwiched between the first flange and the second flange. |
| US09482422B2 |
Outdoor lighting device
An outdoor lighting device with cooled LEDs comprises a housing carrying a radiator and a light-emitting diode that is thermally coupled to the radiator, and the radiator is arranged along a passage that is protected from solar radiation and in which a flow of air is established. |
| US09482421B2 |
Lamp with LED array and thermal coupling medium
A lamp with an LED array is disclosed. The centralized nature of the LEDs allows the LEDs to be configured in a filament-like way using a supporting power structure, near the central portion of the optical envelope of the lamp. In example embodiments, the LEDs are cooled by a fluid medium to enable the LEDs to maintain appropriate mechanical stability and operating temperature. In some embodiments, the lamp operates at a power of at least 5 watts. Since the LED array can be centralized to form a filament-like structure, the light pattern from the lamp is not adversely affected by the presence of a heat sink or mechanical supporting parts. In some embodiments, phosphor is used provide wavelength conversion. The phosphor can be suspended within the optically transmissive fluid medium, placed remotely in the lamp structure, or applied to un-encapsulated LED die. |
| US09482420B2 |
LED explosion-proof lamp coupling structure
A LED explosion-proof lamp coupling structure to couple at least two LED explosion-proof lamps includes at least two holding sets, at least two LED lighting elements, and at least one connection unit. Each holding set includes a body, a protruding connection portion located on an upper end of the body, a chamber located in the body, and at least one first coupling portion located at one end of the body and communicating with the chamber. Each first coupling portion includes a hole communicating with the chamber and a positioning seat located on chamber and abutting the hole. Each LED lighting element is connected to the protruding connection portion. The connection unit includes a connection tube connected to each first coupling portion and at least one first fastening set to fasten the connection tube to the positioning seat. Thus the holding sets can be coupled with each other. |
| US09482419B2 |
Electric light bulb type light source apparatus
An electric light bulb type light source apparatus includes a light source unit, a power source substrate, a drive substrate, a base, and a casing. On the power source substrate, a power source circuit is mounted, and the power source substrate has one of a through hole and a cutout. On the drive substrate, a drive circuit of at least the light source unit is mounted, and the drive substrate includes a part disposed in the one of the through hole and the cutout of the power source substrate. The base is used to supply power to the power source substrate. The casing is configured to contain the light source unit, the power source substrate, and the drive substrate, and the casing has a translucent cover. |
| US09482416B2 |
Flexible light emitting semiconductor device having a three dimensional structure
Provided is an article comprising a flexible circuit comprising a polymeric dielectric layer having first and second major surfaces, one or both of the first and second major surfaces having a conductive layer thereon, wherein at least one conductive layer comprises an electrical circuit configured to power one or more light emitting semi-conductor devices located on the flexible circuit, wherein the flexible circuit is shaped to form a three dimensional structure. |
| US09482413B2 |
Colour sequential lighting device
Lighting device (1) comprising a plurality of LEDs (2a-2h) and a movable member (3) comprising a plurality of translucent segments (S1-S8) arranged such that the light from the LEDs (2a-2h) is transmitted therethrough. At least one of the translucent segments (S1-S8) comprises a wavelength conversion material. The lighting device (1) further comprises a control unit (5) for adjusting the color of the light emitted from the lighting device by controlling the power supplied to each one of the LEDs (2a-2h) in correspondence to the movable member (3), and by controlling the total power supplied to the lighting device (1) independently from the power supplied to each one of the plurality of LEDs (2a-2h). |
| US09482412B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device may include a laser light source arrangement; an optical unit; at least one pivotable mirror; and at least one light wavelength conversion element. The optical unit and the at least one pivotable mirror are embodied in such a way that laser light generated by the laser light source arrangement is directed via the optical unit and the at least one pivotable mirror to the light wavelength conversion element. The lighting device may further include a unit configured to compensate for a lengthening or shortening—caused by the pivoting movement of the at least one pivotable mirror—of the optical path of the laser light generated by the laser light source arrangement and directed onto the at least one light wavelength conversion element via the optical unit and the at least one pivotable mirror. |
| US09482409B2 |
Lighting device, backlighting for a display or a television, and display or television
A lighting device includes a first semiconductor body, which has an active zone that produces blue light having a first emission spectrum during operation, and a second semiconductor body, which has an active zone that produces green light having a second emission spectrum during operation. The lighting device also comprises a luminescent substance that is suitable for converting blue light of the first semiconductor body partially into red light having a third emission spectrum. The third emission spectrum has a peak in the red spectral range, the average half-width of which is no greater than 25 nm. The invention further relates to a backlighting device for a display or a television and to a display and a television. |
| US09482407B2 |
Spot TIR lens system for small high-power emitter
A lamp includes a single emitter structure having a substrate with 25 or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged thereon and a power rating of 80 Watts or more, a total internal reflection (TIR) lens with a plurality of refractive surface regions disposed on the step-shaped upper surface of the optical body, and a holder having a plurality of tabs disposed along an inside rim of the holder and configured for radial compression fit with a flange of the lens, and three or more support members configured for centering the optical body member with respect to the single emitter structure. |
| US09482404B2 |
LED reflector optic for an automotive headlight
The automotive headlight includes one or more first light emitting diodes (LEDs) and one or more second LEDs, wherein the one or more second LEDs are positioned at about 180 degrees with respect to the one or more first LEDs, wherein the headlight optical axis is about −90 degrees with respect to a LED optical axis of the one or more first LEDs, at least one first reflector, wherein the at least one first reflector redirects light from the one or more first LEDs to an angle of about −90 degrees with respect to a LED optical axis of the one or more first LEDs and at least one second reflector, wherein the at least one second reflector redirects light from the one or more second LEDs to an angle of about −90 degrees with respect to the LED optical axis of the one or more first LEDs. |
| US09482400B2 |
Light-emitting device for a motor vehicle headlamp and headlamp equipped with said device
A light-emitting device for a motor vehicle headlamp, said device comprising a housing, a light source disposed on said housing and an optical device directing one or more light beams emitted by said source, said housing comprising a projecting element for allowing a fixed position of said optical element with respect to said housing. This device is noteworthy in that said projecting element comprises at least one hollow rib formed inside an enclosure defined by said housing and said optical device comprises, opposite the housing, a slot that nests at least partially with said hollow rib of said housing.The invention also relates to a headlamp, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising said emitting device. |
| US09482396B2 |
Integrated linear light engine
This disclosure relates to light engines for use in lighting fixtures, such as troffer-style lighting fixtures. Light engines according to the present disclosure have integrated features that eliminate the need for additional components such as a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a heat sink, a cover portion, a lens and/or a reflective element. Devices according to this disclosure can comprise a rigid body, conductive elements arranged into electrical pathways and light sources such as light emitting diodes (LEDs). Devices according to this disclosure can further comprise integrated cover, lens and/or reflective element features. Methods for the manufacture of such devices are also disclosed. |
| US09482395B2 |
LED luminaire
An LED luminaire includes a thermal management system and features minimal glare while allowing for use of traditional luminaire housing. The luminaire of the depicted embodiments includes a luminaire housing, an LED light module, an LED driver, a diffuser, and reflectors. The LED light module includes at least one LED array, a primary thermal interface, and a secondary thermal interface. These thermal interfaces, particularly when used in conjunction with a conductive housing, allow for optimal thermal management by utilizing both natural convection and conduction to remove the heat from inside the luminaire into the surrounding air. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the position of the LED arrays within the housing in combination with the reflector design creates an optical path resulting in an indirect light source that minimizes glare, while providing a uniform distribution of light, unlike traditional LED luminaires. |
| US09482393B2 |
Flexible light panel for professional use
A professional grade lighting apparatus may include a base panel that is flexible and has a reflector surface and a holding panel that is flexible and formed of a transparent and/or translucent material. A plurality of commercially available LED strips may be placed within pockets. The base panel may be fixed to the holding panel at a plurality of attachment locations that define hinges permitting relative pivotal motion. |
| US09482391B2 |
Omnidirectional LED bulb
An omnidirectional LED bulb has a base, a light-transmitting shell, a heat-dissipating pillar and an LED module. The light-transmitting shell is mounted on the base and has a lateral surface and a top surface. The heat-dissipating pillar is mounted on the base and has multiple mounting surfaces facing toward the lateral surface and the top surface of the light-transmitting shell. The LED module is mounted on the mounting surfaces of the heat-dissipating pillar. The LED module emits light through the lateral surface and the top surface of the light-transmitting shell to form an omnidirectional illumination. |
| US09482390B2 |
Supply system for a liquid
A supply system for liquid including a liquid tank and a liquid supply line forming a passage for the liquid from the tank to an outlet of the supply system. The supply line includes at least one part configured to form at least one gas pocket communicating with the passage to take up a change of volume of the liquid in event of freezing. Such a system can be used in a selective catalytic reduction system (SCR). |
| US09482384B2 |
Support, suspension, drive, and position control system for rotary equipment
A support, suspension, drive, traction and position control system comprised of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic components integrated with computer controls for the rotation and maintenance of the operation of various types of rotary equipment including kilns, calciners, dryers, grinding mills, ball mills, and dissolvers. Further provided are methods for the use of the support, suspension, drive, traction and position control system and hydraulic components disclosed herein integrated with computer controls to rotate and maintain the operation of various types of rotary equipment. |
| US09482383B1 |
Support stand
A support stand includes a housing, a first limiting member, a linkage bar, a first elastic positioning device, and a first supporting arm. The housing defines a receiving groove and a first hollow portion. The receiving groove is configured to receive an electronic device. The first limiting member is fixed in the first hollow portion. The first limiting member defines a first limiting groove. The linkage bar and the first elastic positioning device are movably received in the first hollow portion. The first elastic positioning device is configured to partially limit the first limiting groove, thus the linkage bar is fixed to the housing. The first supporting arm is slidably and rotatably connected to the linkage bar. The first supporting arm is configured to form a desired angle with the housing, whereby the first supporting arm cooperates with the housing to support the housing and the electronic device. |
| US09482376B2 |
Pipe arrangement
A pipe arrangement includes a pipe and a pipe coupling having on a front face a peripheral groove with a groove bottom. The pipe is insertable within the groove and weldable to the pipe coupling. At least one through opening structured and arranged to connect the groove to the surroundings of the pipe coupling. |
| US09482375B2 |
Hose connector assembly for coupling pressurized hoses
A hose connector assembly configured to repair or connect hoses, such as hydraulic hoses including a crimping sleeve, a hose insert and a first and second clamping nut. The hose insert is positioned within the crimping sleeve. The first clamping nut extends about the crimping sleeve on one side with the second clamping nut extending about the crimping sleeve on the other side. Whereupon, the tightening of the first clamping nut directs the crimping sleeve toward the hose insert to clamp a hose therebetween, and the tightening of the second clamping nut directs the crimping sleeve toward the hose insert to clamp a hose therebetween. The hose insert having a bore extending therethrough so as to place the hose portions in sealed fluid engagement through the bore. |
| US09482373B2 |
Unbonded flexible pipe
The invention relates to an unbonded flexible pipe with a length and a longitudinal axis. The pipe comprises an inner sealing sheath defining a bore, a pressure armor layer, an intermediate sealing sheath and a tensile armor. The pressure armor layer comprises at least one elongate metal element arranged with pressure armor gaps and is arranged in an annulus provided between the inner sealing sheath and the intermediate sealing sheath. The tensile armor is arranged on the outer side of the intermediate sealing sheath. Either the intermediate sealing sheath forms a drainage layer or the unbonded flexible pipe further comprises a drainage layer arranged in the annulus. The drainage layer comprises at least one drainage path arranged along the length of the pipe, wherein the drainage path is in fluid communication with the pressure armor gaps. The drainage layer optionally comprises a perforated tube. |
| US09482369B2 |
Wrap bracket damper assembly
A damper assembly is provided with a grommet and a tubular clamp. The grommet includes a split tubular body that defines a substantially cylindrical cavity for receiving an elongated member. The split tubular body includes an oblong projection that extends radially outward. The tubular clamp defines a cavity for receiving the grommet within. The tubular clamp includes an axially extending gap and a slot formed through, wherein the slot is sized for receiving the oblong projection for locating the grommet to the tubular clamp. Wherein a longitudinal length of the grommet extends substantially beyond a length the tubular clamp for damping vibration of the elongated member. |
| US09482368B1 |
Adjustable fixture for clamping a tube-like object
An adjustable fixture includes a lower clamp piece, an upper clamp piece covering the lower clamp piece at a closed position to define a clamping space. The upper clamp piece has an anti-hook edge projecting outward. A torque rod has a first end pivoted to one side of the lower clamp piece. A traction element has a first traction end pivoted to the torque rod adjacent to the first end thereof and a second traction end that defines a threaded through hole to receive a thread bolt threadedly and movably therethrough; and a hook disposed on a second traction end of the traction element and operably associated so as to be movable together with the threaded bolt in such a manner to engage the hook with the anti-hook edge of the upper clamp piece when the upper clamp piece is disposed at the closed position. |
| US09482366B2 |
Cap for cooperating with a flow control element of a valve for a self-priming electric pump
A cap for cooperating with a flow control element of a valve for a self-priming electric pump, the valve being designed to open and close a recirculation duct for the passage of the recirculating fluid from the impeller assembly to an intake duct, the cap having a tubular body and, coaxially inside the latter, a mushroom-shaped element, which divides, with its head, the cap into a first portion and a second portion to be applied at an opening of the recirculation duct outward, respectively in the overhead and underhead installation of the self-priming electric pump, the axial space occupation of the head and of the stem of the mushroom-shaped element that is extended from the head toward the second portion defining two alternative axial positions of interaction with the flow control element of the valve in the overhead and underhead installation. |
| US09482358B2 |
Solenoid valve
A solenoid valve has a valve body with first and second ports. A bobbin is mounted to the valve body. A winding is wound on the bobbin. A stator is fitted to one end of a hole through the bobbin and defines a third port therein. A plunger is slidably fitted to the hole and movable between a normal position and an energized position. Two plugs are installed at respective ends of the plunger and arranged to selectively close the first and third ports. A flux return device is fixed to the stator and the bobbin. A spring returns the plunger from the energized position, where the plunger closes the third port and the first and second ports communicate with each other via the hole in the bobbin, to the normal position, where the plunger closes the first port and the second and third ports communicate with each. |
| US09482357B2 |
Temperature controlled purge valve for use in water systems
Applicant discloses a thermally actuated valve having a housing, a resilient seat, a thermally conductive piston, a spring fluid seal, and a working material. The housing defines an inlet and an outlet and has two chambers. The seat is adjacent the inlet and the piston is adapted to move towards the seat when a working fluid in the housing warms and expands and away from the seat when a working fluid in the housing cools. By moving away from the seat, fluid flow through the valve is generated. In one application, Applicant's valve acts as a freeze prevention device. In another application, Applicant's valve is used to cool a source of water. |
| US09482355B2 |
Main stage in-line pressure control cartridge with optional reverse flow function
A main stage in-line pressure control cartridge. The cartridge selectively controls flow in-line in the same direction as opposed to directing flow at a 90 degree angle like other cartridges. A tubular poppet can be mounted into a body and has a sliding control sleeve that can expose radial holes in the poppet to an open position and to seal the radial holes in a closed position. The cartridge can be configured in numerous ways in order to serve many functions, such as a pressure relief valve, a counterbalance valve, and a flow control valve. The cartridge can also be configured to allow or prevent reverse flow. |
| US09482353B2 |
Automatic draining back flow prevention device
A double check valve is provided that includes an in-line inlet check valve and an outlet check valve that cooperate to prevent back flow of fluid through the valve. The check valve also includes at least one vent that allows for fluid trapped within the check valve to drain, thereby preventing freezing of the check valve and hydrant to which it is interconnected. The check valve provided omits many superfluous components and thus is smaller and easier to install than check valves of the prior art. |
| US09482347B2 |
Control valve
Provided is a valve, including an in-line flow passage, a shut-off mechanism, and a multi-stage throttling section disposed in the in-line flow passage. Further provided is an in-line valve, including a flow control component and a sealing component, wherein the flow control component and the sealing component are separate from one another. |
| US09482344B2 |
Arrangement with a radial shaft seal having a sinusoidally curved sealing edge
An arrangement includes a radial shaft seal (2) that surrounds a shaft (1), wherein an elastomer body (4) forms a sealing lip (5) for bearing against the shaft (1), wherein the sealing lip (5) has a sinusoidally curved sealing edge (6) on its side which faces the shaft (1), which sealing edge runs around along the inner circumference of the sealing lip (5), and wherein the sealing edge (6) bears against the circumferential face (7) of the shaft (1). The radial shaft seal as a single component is able to produce high dynamic seal tightness in a plurality of different applications. |
| US09482340B2 |
Shift arrangement for a motor vehicle transmission
Shift arrangement for a motor vehicle transmission. At least one gear stage can be engaged and disengaged by means of an associated shift clutch. A spindle which is aligned along a spindle axis, has a spindle thread and is rotatably mounted on a housing. A nut has a nut thread, which is in engagement with the spindle thread. A shift finger is formed on the nut. At least one shift rod is mounted movably on the housing and can be coupled to the shift clutch. Provided on the housing are a radial groove, in which the shift finger engages in an axial base position of the nut and within which the shift finger can be turned, and an axial guide, which axially adjoins the radial groove and in which the shift finger can engage in order to hold the nut in the circumferential direction, thus ensuring that said nut is moved axially in a first axial direction when the spindle is rotated. |
| US09482335B2 |
No-back check device
A device and method for determining whether a no-back device is functioning properly includes a no-back device coupling an input shaft and an output shaft. A no-back output gear is coupled to the output shaft, and a reaction gear is operably coupled to the no-back output gear. A check device includes a rotatable drive feature having a first end accessible for rotation and a second end engaged with the reaction gear. The functionality of the no-back device is evaluated by applying a rotational torque to the drive feature. |
| US09482333B2 |
Sprocket assembly including teeth having an enlarged profile
A chain and sprocket drive system that includes an inverted tooth chain assembly configured to mesh with a laminated sprocket assembly is provided. The inverted tooth chain assembly includes a plurality of rows of links. The laminated sprocket assembly includes a plurality of plates, each of the plates including a plurality of teeth that are aligned with adjacent teeth. Each tooth has an engaging flank and a disengaging flank. The engaging flank of the teeth on one of the plurality of plates has an enlarged profile in a radially outwardly extending direction in comparison to corresponding ones of the teeth of an adjacent one of the plates, such that a first contact position with a link of the chain assembly carried thereon is located radially outward from a second contact position of the link with the corresponding teeth of the adjacent one of the plurality of plates. |
| US09482330B1 |
Hybrid transmission
A transmission for transferring mechanical power between an input member and an output member is described, and includes a first synchronous electric machine including a first stator, a first distal rotor and a first proximal rotor and a second synchronous electric machine including a second stator, a second distal rotor and a second proximal rotor. The input member rotatably couples to the first distal rotor and to the second proximal rotor and the output member rotatably couples to the second distal rotor and to the first proximal rotor. Mechanical power is transferrable between the input member and the output member without torque being applied by the first stator. |
| US09482327B2 |
Actuator
An actuator (10) includes a guide apparatus (30) that guides a rod 11 in a Y-axis direction. The guide apparatus (30) includes a slider (31), a rail (60) formed of a steel material, and balls (rolling elements) formed of a steel material. The slider (31) is supported by the rail (60) through the balls. Accordingly, even if torque originating from a rotation of the output shaft of a motor unit (20) is applied to the slider (31) through a ball screw shaft (71), the slider (31) does not move around the output shaft with respect to the rail (60). Hence, torque originating from the rotation of the output shaft is not likely to be transmitted to the rod (11) through the guide apparatus (30), thereby suppressing an occurrence of the wobbling of the leading end of the rod (11). In addition, a reduction of the work precision of the actuator (10) is preventable. |
| US09482324B2 |
Taper lock apparatus
A taper lock apparatus, including a screw defining a longitudinal axis and having a tapered end at one end thereof, the tapered end including a threaded bore extending partially along the longitudinal axis; a compression fitting having expansions, the fitting defining an internal space having an internal taper, the internal space configured to mate at least partially with the tapered end of the screw; and a retaining screw configured to mate with the threaded bore, wherein tightening of the retaining screw into the bore engages the taper end of the screw with the internal taper of the fitting forcing the expansions radially outward. |
| US09482319B2 |
Multi-stage transmission for vehicle
A multi-stage transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft and an output shaft, a first planetary gear device, a second planetary gear device, a third planetary gear device, and a fourth planetary gear device provided between the input shaft and the output shaft to transfer a torque and each including three rotating elements, and at least six shifting elements connected to the rotating elements of the first to fourth planetary gear devices. |
| US09482315B1 |
Stud end link
A stud end link comprises a main body having first and second openings and a swivel ball bushing. The first opening and swivel ball each have truncated spherical surfaces to allow the swivel ball to be seated within the first opening, while permitting the swivel ball to pivot a limited amount about a lateral axis within the first opening. The first opening includes a slot to facilitate installation and removal of the swivel ball. In some implementations, the swivel ball includes a tab which matingly fits within the slot to prevent rotation of the swivel ball about an axis perpendicular to the main body. |
| US09482312B2 |
Rope drive anchoring assembly
A rope drive anchoring assembly includes a pulley, a rope, and a rope connector. The pulley is adapted to be rotationally mounted and has an inner surface, an outer surface, and a fastener opening extending between the inner and outer surfaces. The rope engages at least a portion of the outer surface of the pulley and is adapted to receive a drive torque, which causes the pulley to rotate. The rope connector couples the rope to the pulley, and includes a fastener, a threaded bolt, and a spring. The fastener extends through the fastener opening, and has a first end, a second end, an outer surface, and an opening through which the rope extends. The threaded bolt is threaded onto the fastener threads, and the spring is disposed between the threaded bolt and the inner surface of the pulley. |
| US09482311B2 |
Power transmission belt and method for manufacturing same
A power transmission belt has an uneven surface of rubber which when the power transmission belt is wound around a flat pulley, comes in contact with the flat pulley. The uneven surface has projected parts each having a flat top surface. |
| US09482309B2 |
Vehicular vibration reduction apparatus
A vehicle vibration reduction apparatus (1) includes: an inertial mass body (30) that is connected to a rotary shaft (13) of a power transmission apparatus (5) such that the inertial mass body (30) is capable of transmitting power, wherein the rotary shaft (13) of a power transmission apparatus (5) is capable of transmitting rotary power from a travel drive source (4) to a drive wheel (10) of a vehicle (2); and a switching apparatus (40) that is provided on a power transmission path between the rotary shaft (13) and the inertial mass body (30) and that is capable of switching between a first path (42) on which the rotary shaft (13) and the inertial mass body (30) are connected to each other via an elastic body (41), and a second path (43) on which the rotary shaft (13) and the inertial mass body (30) are connected to each other without passing through the elastic body (41). Thus, the vehicle vibration reduction apparatus (1) can reduce vibration appropriately. |
| US09482307B2 |
Multi-cylinder engine crankshaft torsional vibration absorber and balancer and process thereof
A crankshaft may comprise a plurality of main journals axially-aligned along a longitudinal axis, a plurality of crankpin journals radially-offset from the longitudinal axis, a first web, of a plurality of webs, coupled to a first main journal of the plurality of main journals and a first crankpin journal of the plurality of crankpin journals, wherein the first crankpin journal is coupled adjacent a first end of the first web, and a first counterweight coupled adjacent a second end of the first web, wherein a configuration of the first counterweight relative to the second end of the first web and the plurality of crankpin journals is spatially tuned and harmonically tuned to at least one harmonic mode of the crankshaft. |
| US09482306B2 |
Torsion damping device with springs and tilting seats
This device comprises two coaxial elements mounted rotatably with respect to a spring, and two seats for positioning the spring. Each seat comprises a dorsal pivot projection configured in two coaxial elements. The pivot projection is delimited by a cylinder portion whose section is a first circular arc whose tangent forms an angle α with the axis of the spring. The section of each receptacle is formed by a second circular arc, having the same center and radius of curvature as the first circular arc, the tangent of which forms with the axis of the spring an angle γ greater than α. The pivot axes are parallel to one another at a distance L, and are included in a plane located at a distance R from the rotation axis. The maximum deflection angle of the device is δ. γ is within the range [arctg(L/2R)−δ/8 to arctg(L/2R+δ]. |
| US09482303B2 |
Shock energy absorber
A shock absorber includes damping material in a solid state and which transitions from a solid to a viscous fluid state when stressed and a plunger device including a depending blade positioned in or adjacent the damping material to be driven into the damping material when impacted transitioning the damping material to a viscous fluid state absorbing the impact. |
| US09482302B2 |
Process for manufacturing seamless steel pipe, hollow spring utilizing seamless steel pipe
There are provided: a seamless steel pipe formed from a cylindrical steel material billet through a hot isostatic extrusion step, wherein a depth of a contiguous flaw formed on an inner periphery surface and an outer periphery surface of the steel pipe is 50 μm or less; a hollow spring obtained by forming a hollow body in a shape of a coil or a bar or a bar with curved part from the seamless steel pipe made of spring steel and applying a surface treatment to the hollow body so that the hollow body has compressive residual stress; and a method for producing seamless steel pipe including: a billet molding step; a first heating step; a hot isostatic extrusion step; a second heating step; an extension step; a third heating step; and a pickling step. |
| US09482301B2 |
Brake disc stack wear measurement
In some examples, a brake wear measurement system includes an emitter configured to emit a signal and a passive powered sensor system including a controller and a sensor configured to sense the signal emitted by the emitter. The emitter and the sensor of the sensor system are mounted on the brake assembly such as the emitter and the sensor may be configured to move relative to each other as the brake disc stack wears. Thus, a characteristic of the signal emitted by the emitter and sensed by the sensor may change as a function of the brake disc stack wear. The brake wear measurement may further include a processor configured to receive the output generated by the sensor and determine, based on the output, an amount of wear of the brake disc stack assembly. |
| US09482300B2 |
Axle-mounted brake disc with a connecting element
A connection for an axle-mounted brake disc in a rail vehicle with a connecting element on the coach side, such as a hub, wherein the axle-mounted brake disc has a friction ring and a flange formed on the inner circumference of the friction ring, which flange is fastened to the connecting element. The connection has tabs made from metal sheet distributed around the circumference connected to the flange and the connecting element. |
| US09482293B2 |
Electromagnetic clutch
An electromagnetic clutch is provided with: a rotor which has a friction plate; a stator which has an electromagnetic coil; and an armature which is attracted to the friction plate by electromagnetic attraction force generated by the conduction of electricity to the electromagnetic coil. The electromagnetic coil includes electromagnetic coils. The electromagnetic clutch is also provided with a circuit switching section which is configured in such a manner that, when a switch-on command is outputted, the circuit switching section allows an electric current to flow in parallel into the electromagnetic coils, and then, after the armature is attracted to the friction plate, the circuit switching section switches a circuit for conducting electricity to the electromagnetic coil, from a parallel circuit to a series circuit so that an electric current flows in series into the electromagnetic coils. |
| US09482291B2 |
Prime mover arrangement comprising a fluid-actuated clutch arrangement and a multi-disk clutch
The invention relates to a prime mover arrangement comprising an internal combustion engine (1) for driving a first shaft (2) and comprising a steam engine (4) which is connected to the first shaft by means of a clutch arrangement (3) for driving a second shaft (5). Furthermore, means which interact with the clutch arrangement (3) are arranged between the first shaft (2) and the second shaft (5) in order to transmit a rotational movement of the second shaft (5) to the first shaft (2) in a first operating mode and to allow a freewheel between the first shaft (2) and the second shaft (5) in a second operating mode. The clutch arrangement (3) can be operated with positive pressure or negative pressure. Furthermore, the clutch arrangement (3) can be shifted by a fluid, and a torque transmission is provided between the first shaft (2) and the second shaft (5). |
| US09482289B2 |
Self-preloading shift lever
An exemplary shift lever includes a mounting assembly, a flexible member coupled to the mounting assembly, and an interface coupled to the flexible member. The flexible member is resilient so as to provide a selected biasing force at a predetermined deformation angle, and flexible enough to elastically deform across a selected angular range. The mounting assembly is configured for connection with the input shaft of a transmission, and the interface is configured for connection with an output of a drive selector. |
| US09482288B2 |
Clutch system for a transmission
A clutch system for a transmission having a clutch assembly and a brake assembly. The clutch system includes a clutch assembly and a brake assembly coupled to a planetary gear set, engine and two electric motors to reduce transmission complexity, costs, and efficiency losses. The clutch assembly also includes a wear compensation mechanism and a clutch separator mechanism. |
| US09482286B2 |
Fail-safe dry friction clutch for a vehicle accessory
A fail-safe friction clutch assembly for a vehicle accessory, particularly to drive a vehicle cooling pump, and more particularly as part of a dual mode drive for a cooling pump, together with an electric motor. The friction clutch assembly includes a friction plate member connected to a central rotatable shaft member used for operating the vehicle accessory. A pair of friction lining members are positioned on opposite sides of the friction plate member. An armature member is spring biased to axially force the friction plate member and friction lining member against a housing or cover which is rotating at input speed. A solenoid assembly is used to overcome the spring bias and pull the armature and friction plate member away from the housing. |
| US09482281B2 |
Removable bearing cover
A bearing cover is provided for attachment relative to a bearing assembly. The cover includes a flange and a magnet associated with the flange. The magnet is configured to removably retain the bearing cover relative to the bearing assembly. |
| US09482280B2 |
Roller bearing cage
A roller bearing retainer is constituted by two or a greater number of circumferentially disposed segments. Each segment includes: a plurality of columns provided between mutually opposing long sides of a rectangle; and a plurality of pockets for holding rollers between the columns. At least one of the mutually opposing long sides of the segment includes an arc-shaped connecting member having a generally U-shaped section for slidable fitting in a circumferential direction. The segments are arranged in the circumferential direction, and under this state, the connecting members of each segment is slid over the long side of the adjacent segment, whereby the segments are mutually connected with each other. |
| US09482277B2 |
Air bearing shaft chrome plating
An air bearing shaft for a cabin air compressor includes a first edge and a second edge, a surface extending between the first edge and the second edge, and chrome plating on the surface between the first edge and the second edge. L1 is a first distance from the first edge of the air bearing shaft to a first end of the chrome plating. L2 is a second distance from the first edge of the air bearing shaft to a second end of the chrome plating. |
| US09482270B2 |
Bearing wear detection device
Devices to measure bearing wear are known for bearings such as rod-ends, wherein the rod-end must either be removed completely from its installed position or relocated relative to the device each time wear in a different axis is to be measured. Such devices also tend to be relatively large and cumbersome. The present invention provides a device 10 which is a fully portable light-weight apparatus that precisely measures bearings in two axes. When employed for the purpose of assessing bearing wear, the invention is capable of obtaining the measurement in confined spaces, without the need to remove the bearing from its fully installed position or reorient the bearing housing to facilitate both measurements. By using the disclosed apparatus, a user may ascertain the serviceability of a bearing by detecting the level of wear in the bearing allowing timely replacement and/or repair. |
| US09482267B1 |
Omni-directional connection assembly
An omni-directional connection assembly broadly includes a hinge pin and one or more connection brackets. The hinge pin comprises a base section, a pair of primary walls, and a pair of opposed projections. The primary walls form a primary slot therebetween for receiving an engagement portion of a first panel therein. The opposed projections are spaced from the primary walls and form elongated passageways for allowing the primary walls to bend slightly outward for receiving the engagement portion of the first panel. The connection brackets are U-shaped for being positioned over the hinge pin and including flanges for attaching the connection brackets to a second panel. The first and second panels are then connected together at angles of between 0 and 180 degrees or more. |
| US09482265B2 |
Variable shaft for hydraulic unit
A variable shaft of a hydraulic unit is provided including a body having a first end and a second opposite end. A first flange and a substantially identical second flange are integrally formed with the body of the shaft adjacent the second end. The first flange and the second flange each have an axial length parallel to a longitudinal axis of the body of about 0.085±0.010 inches (0.216±0.0254 cm). The first flange and the second flange have an outer diameter of 1.359 inches (3.452 cm). The first flange and the second flange are separated by from one another by a distance of about 0.3162 inches (0.8031 cm). A portion of the body between the first flange and the second flange has an outer diameter of about 1.2013 inches (3.051 cm). |
| US09482264B2 |
Tolerance compensation apparatus
The invention relates to an apparatus for the compensation of tolerances between components to be screwed to one another, comprising a hollow-cylindrical base element and a hollow-cylindrical compensation element which is in threaded engagement with the base element and which can be moved from a starting position into a compensation position by rotation relative to the base element. The apparatus is characterized in that a fixing means is provided by which the compensation element can be fixed in the compensation position relative to the base element. |
| US09482259B2 |
Fixing unit, fastening device and motor vehicle
A fixing unit for a fastening device to fix a first vehicle component to a second vehicle component is disclosed. The fastening device includes a plate element fixed to a coupling section on an essentially flat surface of the first vehicle component. A threaded stud extends from the plate element and is configured to be arranged in a receptacle of a second vehicle component. |
| US09482252B2 |
Mounting device and method
Disclosed is a device for mounting hunting decoys, bird deterrents, trail cameras, and the like to support surfaces. Also disclosed is a mounting device having a mating surface for receiving a hunting decoy therein, the mating surface being operationally configured to allow rotation of the hunting decoy about the mounting device up to about 360 degrees. |
| US09482251B2 |
Clamp on a rope equipped with an improved spring-loaded cam
The invention relates to a clamp with a cam, and with a removable pivot-pin, wherein the bias spring is integrated in a housing of the cam by means of a securing cassette configured to position the spring in a pre-stressed state. The cassette is provided with clip-fastening means designed to be fitted in the housing of the lever. |
| US09482249B2 |
Three-dimensional printing process, swirling device and thermal management process
A three-dimensional printing process, a swirling device, and a thermal management process are disclosed. The three-dimensional printing process includes distributing a material to a selected region, selectively laser melting the material, and forming a swirling device from the material. The swirling device is printed by selective laser melting. The thermal management process includes providing an article having a swirling device printed by selective laser melting, and cooling a portion of the article by transporting air through the swirling device. |
| US09482246B2 |
Hydrostatic drive
A hydrostatic drive, especially a hydrostatic fan drive, includes a hydraulic constant-displacement pump configured to drive a hydraulic motor for a fan. The drive further includes a hydraulic machine configured to supply a second hydraulic circuit with a pressure medium. The constant-displacement pump is configured to be hydraulically combined with the hydraulic machine. |
| US09482245B2 |
Cylinder length sensor mounting/retaining assembly
A cylinder length sensor mounting and retaining assembly for a hydraulic cylinder includes a casing attachable to a blind end of the cylinder, a sensor retention cap affixable to the casing adjacent the blind end of the cylinder, and a locking pin extendable through the casing and positioned adjacent the sensor retention cap. The assembly facilitates sensor removal without requiring disassembly of the cylinder. |
| US09482242B1 |
C-connect fastener for a ceiling fan blade
C-connect fasteners (24) are provided for securing ceiling fan blades (26) to mounting brackets (20). Protuberant members (32) extend from the mounting brackets (20), and have heads (72) and shanks (74) which fit through apertures (62) in the ceiling fan blades (26). The C-connect fasteners (24) have an upper surface (36), a lower surface (38), and a peripheral edge (40) extending between the upper and lower surfaces (36, 38). An C-shaped opening (46) is formed in the peripheral edge (40) for sliding around the shank (74) and wedging the C-connect fastener (24) between the head (72) of the protuberant member (32) and the upper surface of ceiling fan blade (26). Resilient tabs (52) are spaced about the peripheral edge (40) the C-connect fastener (24) and press the upper surface (36) of the C-connect fastener (24) into the head (72) of the protuberant member (32). |
| US09482238B2 |
Pump and protector for pump
The invention relates to a pump, in particular a centrifugal pump (1), with a pump housing (2), wherein a motor shaft (5), which is connected to a pump impeller (6) arranged in the pump housing (2), extends through a shaft passage (4) in a rear wall (3) of the pump housing (2) and is mounted in the rear wall (3) by a mechanical seal arrangement (8). |
| US09482229B2 |
Motor-driven compressor
A motor-driven compressor includes an electric motor, a compression mechanism driven by the electric motor so as to compress refrigerant gas, a metal housing accommodating the electric motor and the compression mechanism, a suction passage communicable with interior of the housing wherein refrigerant gas flows through the suction passage, a discharge passage communicable with the interior of the housing wherein refrigerant gas discharged from the compression mechanism flows through the discharge passage and a check valve that is provided in at least one of the suction passage and the discharge passage, opened while the compressor is in operation and closed while the compressor is at a stop. |
| US09482227B2 |
Wiper assembly for a pump
A wiper assembly may be used to prevent wellbore debris from entering an operating region of a pump. The wiper assembly may include a housing, a wiper member, a backing member, and a biasing member. The biasing member may bias the backing member into engagement with the wiper member, and thereby bias the wiper member into engagement with a tapered surface of the housing. The wiper member may include a corresponding tapered surface, which thereby forces the wiper member radially inward into engagement with an operating member of the pump. |
| US09482225B2 |
Gear pump, pumping apparatus including the same, and aircraft fuel system including gear pump
A pumping apparatus includes a gear pump in fluid communication with a boost pump. The gear pump includes a pump housing, a first gear, and a second gear. The first and second gear have gear teeth and trunnions on opposite sides thereof, and are disposed in the pump housing. The gear teeth of the first and second gear are meshed in a mesh region. An inlet cavity is defined adjacent to the first and second gear, on one side of the mesh region. A pump outlet is defined on an opposite side of the mesh region from the inlet cavity. A bearing is configured to support at least one trunnion of the first gear and/or the second gear. A bearing interface is defined between the bearing and the at least one trunnion. A flow path is defined between the bearing interface and the inlet cavity. |
| US09482224B2 |
Oil pump
An oil pump includes a housing (10, 20), a rotary shaft (30) which is supported by the housing, an inner rotor (71, 81) which is rotated in the housing integrally with the rotary shaft, an outer rotor (72, 82) which is rotated in the housing as being interlocked with the inner rotor, a rotor case (40) which is fitted into the housing and which contains the inner rotor and the outer rotor and supports an outer circumferential face of the outer rotor in a slidable manner, a side plate (50) which is arranged to be in contact with at least one annular end face of the rotor case, and an elastic member (60) which exerts an urging force to press the side plate to the annular end face of the rotor case. According to the above, slide resistance and operational torque can be reduced and constant side clearance can be maintained. |
| US09482223B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling or limiting rotor orbit in moving cavity motors and pumps
A moving cavity motor or pump, such as a mud motor, comprising: a rotor, a stator, and one or more apparatus for constraining (i.e., controlling or limiting) the movement of the rotor relative to the stator. |
| US09482218B2 |
Deformable membrane pump for dialysis machine
A pump for a dialysis machine, the pump having a pump chamber and a deformable membrane actuable to pump a fluid from the pump chamber, the pump chamber being substantially conical such that the membrane is actuated to extend into the conical chamber in order to pump the fluid from the chamber. |
| US09482217B2 |
Fluid control device
A fluid control device includes a vibrating plate unit, a driver, and a flexible plate. The vibrating plate unit includes a vibrating plate with first and second main surfaces, a frame plate surrounding the vibrating plate, and a link portion linking the vibrating plate and the frame plate and elastically supporting the vibrating plate against the frame plate. The driver is on the first main surface of the vibrating plate, and vibrates the vibrating plate. The flexible plate having a hole faces the second main surface of the vibrating plate, being fixed to the frame plate. At least a portion of the vibrating plate and the link portion are thinner than the thickness of the frame plate so that the surface of the portion of the vibrating plate and the link portion, on the side of the flexible plate, can separate from the flexible plate. |
| US09482214B2 |
Hydraulic circuit for controlling booms of construction equipment
Disclosed is a hydraulic circuit for controlling booms of construction equipment, wherein working oil which is relieved from a large chamber of a boom cylinder passes through an orifice so as to prevent the boom from lowering if an overload is applied when the boom is not being operated. The hydraulic circuit for controlling booms of construction equipment includes: a boom cylinder which is connected to a hydraulic pump via a first path and a second path; a boom control valve which is mounted on the path between the hydraulic pump and the boom cylinder; a holding valve which is mounted between the boom control valve and the first path of the boom cylinder and prevents the natural lowering of a boom when the boom control valve is in a neutral position; a port relief valve which is mounted to the first path at the lower side of a holding poppet and relieves working oil when an overload is generated at the first path; and an orifice valve which is mounted at the lower side of the port relief valve, relieves the working oil which passes through the port relief valve when the boom control valve is neutral so as to relieve the working oil through an orifice, and discharges the working oil which passes through the port relief valve to a hydraulic tank at the time of conversion due to boom-up pilot signal pressure which is applied to the boom control valve. |
| US09482209B2 |
Solar water heater
A solar water heater has a main panel having a boiler panel and a reservoir panel. The reservoir panel feeds the boiler panel. A tubular reservoir is installed in the reservoir panel. An evacuated tube is installed in the boiler panel. The evacuated tube has an inner vacuum wall and an outer vacuum wall for insulating the evacuated tube. A boiler line receives heated water from the reservoir panel. The boiler line passes through the evacuated tube. An electrical production module is connected to the boiler panel. The electrical production module generates electricity from steam power taken from the boiler panel. A feed line connects to the reservoir panel. The feed line ends at an intake filter. |
| US09482204B2 |
Rotor blade for vertical axis wind turbine
One embodiment of a rotor blade for a vertical axis wind turbine comprises a central portion having a central axis and at least two blade members. The blade members each have a proximal end attached to the central portion, a high drag side and a low drag side that is opposite the high drag side. Each of the blade members also includes an uncovered vent comprising an opening through the blade member that provides an unobstructed path for airflow through the blade member. In one embodiment, a pair of fins are positioned adjacent the opening of the vent and extend from the high drag side of the blade member. |
| US09482201B2 |
Method for testing a supply circuit, and a corresponding supply circuit for at least one ignition circuit
In a method for testing a supply circuit for an ignition circuit having at least one energy accumulator, a first conversion circuit that raises a supply voltage to a specified voltage level and charges the at least one energy accumulator, a controllable discharging circuit that discharges the at least one energy accumulator as needed, the energy accumulator is connected via a first coupling diode to the ignition circuit, and the supply voltage is applied via a second coupling diode to the at least one ignition circuit. Following the system start-up, a state of charge of the at least one energy accumulator is ascertained and compared to the at least one specified threshold value, and as a function of the comparison, a faultless supply circuit or at least one fault is recognized. |
| US09482199B2 |
Hydraulic pressure supply system
A hydraulic pressure supply system, which is capable of properly controlling a degree of engagement of a clutch, thereby making it possible to improve vehicle drivability. The hydraulic pressure supply system includes a first hydraulic pressure supply device that uses an internal combustion engine as a motive power source and supplies hydraulic pressure to the clutch, and a second hydraulic pressure supply device that supplies hydraulic pressure to the clutch by being driven by a motive power source other than the engine, detects a vehicle speed and a rotational difference parameter that represents a difference in rotational speed between an output shaft of the clutch and an input shaft of the clutch, and controls clutch supply hydraulic pressure which is hydraulic pressure supplied to the clutch, according to the detected vehicle speed and rotational difference parameter, when restart conditions of the engine are satisfied. |
| US09482198B1 |
EFI throttle body with side fuel injectors
An electronic fuel injection throttle body unit has a core body with two side components. The two side components each including a fuel delivery passage. Four air intake passages extending vertically through the throttle body. Valves are rotatable within the air intake passages. The valves being connected to valve shafts that rotate about respective valve shaft axes. The valve shaft axes and the fuel delivery passages are perpendicular to each other. |
| US09482195B2 |
Fuel supply system for internal combustion engine and methods of using the same
A number of variations of the invention may include a fuel supply system for an internal combustion engine and/or method, wherein heat is exchanged from gaseous fuel in a gaseous fuel line and at least one of a liquid fuel in a liquid fuel feed line or a liquid fuel return line which are connected to an injection fuel rail of an internal combustion engine. In a number of variations, a regulator or throttling valve is provided in the gaseous fuel line to expand gas flowing therein and reduce the temperature of the gas to further cool the liquid fuel flowing in the liquid fuel feed line or the liquid fuel return line. Another variation may include a method comprising exchanging heat from gaseous fuel in a gaseous fuel line and a liquid fuel in a liquid fuel feed line or a liquid fuel return line which are connected to an injection fuel rail of an internal combustion engine. Another variation may further include throttling the flow through the gaseous fuel line to adiabatically expand the gas flowing and reduce the temperature of the gas to further cool the liquid fuel flowing in the liquid fuel feed line or the liquid fuel return line. |
| US09482188B2 |
Valve apparatus
A control device executes a feedback control operation of an electric motor such that a sensed opening degree of a valve approaches a target opening degree, which is set for a time of fully closing the valve. The control device stops the energization of the electric motor after reaching of the sensed opening degree of the valve to an energization stop opening degree, which is set on a valve opening side of a full closing degree of the valve in a valve opening direction of the valve. A return spring urges the valve in a valve closing direction of the valve. The target opening degree is set on a valve closing side of the energization stop opening degree in the valve closing direction. |
| US09482187B2 |
Exhaust gas recirculation device for a motor vehicle
An exhaust gas recirculation device for a motor vehicle is disclosed with includes an unburnt gas line for guiding an unburnt gas flow and at least one exhaust gas feed line for supplying exhaust gas into the unburnt gas line. At least two discharge openings offset relative to each other in the circumferential direction of the unburnt gas line are provided in the unburnt gas line, by way of which the exhaust gas can be or is supplied to the unburnt gas line. |
| US09482184B2 |
Rocket motor combustion chamber injection head
An injection head including an annular distribution cavity for distributing a propellant upstream from an injection plate supporting injectors. The cavity includes a multiply-perforated distribution grid distributing the propellant, which grid is coaxial with the distribution cavity and of a concave shape that projects into the distribution cavity, the grid being fastened to a dome of the cavity. |
| US09482183B2 |
Thrust reverser control system
A control system for a thrust reverser with a movable cowl includes an electromechanical actuator to actuate the movable cowl, an electric drive unit (M) driving the actuator, and a power control unit capable of controlling the electric drive unit (M). The power control unit moves the movable cowl to a closed position and/or to a deployed position. In particular, the control system includes an electronic circuit for electric braking capable of braking the electric drive unit (M), in case of overspeed of the drive unit when the movable cowl is moved to the closed position and/or to the deployed position. |
| US09482182B2 |
Actuating device for moving a thrust reverser
The invention concerns an actuating device (1) for moving a mobile cover of a thrust reverser, comprising: an actuator (5) comprising a first element (10), such as a screw, and a second element (12), such as a nut, mounted mobile device relative to the first element (10) such that the rotation of the first element (10) results in a translational movement of the second element (12) relative to the first element (10), and a locking device (31) comprising a rotating part (34) linked in rotation with the first element (10), and a locking part (35) that is mobile relative to the rotating part (34) between a locked position in which the locking part (35) is engaged with the rotating part (34) to prevent the first element (10) from rotating and an unlocked position in which the locking part (35) is disengaged from the rotating part to allow the rotation of the first element (10), and an electromagnet (39) for moving the locking part (35) to the unlocked position. |
| US09482176B2 |
System and method for compensating gaseous fuel injection
A system and method for operating an engine using gaseous fuel is described. In one example, engine operation is adjusted responsive to a temperature of air entering an engine and a resultant temperature of a gaseous fuel injected to the engine. The system and method may improve engine air-fuel control. |
| US09482170B2 |
Deceleration control system in a vehicle, vehicle including a deceleration control system, and deceleration control method
A deceleration control system in a vehicle comprises; a deceleration start detector; a memory for storing a normal state rule and a deceleration state rule to control a driving power, and a controller for controlling the driving power; wherein in the deceleration state rule, the driving power is changed based on the detection by a driving state detector, and a driving power decided in accordance with the deceleration state rule is greater than a driving power decided in accordance with the normal state rule according to the same driving state: and wherein the controller switches the normal state rule to the deceleration state rule and controls the driving power in accordance with the deceleration state rule, based on the detection by the driving state detector, when the deceleration start detector detects that the deceleration has started. |
| US09482169B2 |
Optimization-based controls for diesel engine air-handling systems
System, apparatus, and methods are disclosed for a computing a first set of parameters based on operational states of an internal combustion engine and an air handling system, a second set of parameters based on a linear time varying model, and one or more control commands based upon a minimization or maximization of a cost function over a prediction horizon, the second set of parameters, and at least one physical constraint of the internal combustion engine, and controlling one or more operations based at least in part upon the one or more control commands. The acts of determining the first and second set of parameters and computing the one or more control commands are repeated over a plurality of time periods over which the first set of parameters and the second set of parameters are time variant. |
| US09482161B2 |
Actuator of link mechanism for internal combustion engine and actuator for variable compression ratio mechanism
An actuator of a variable compression ratio mechanism which includes: a control link; a control shaft; a housing; a wave gear speed reduction device arranged to transmit the reduced rotation speed to the control shaft; a first bearing portion which is provided between the control shaft and a wave generation device of the wave gear speed reduction device, and which rotatably supports a first axial end portion of the wave generation device; and a second bearing portion which is provided between the housing and the wave generation device, and which rotatably supports an second axial end portion of the wave generation device, at least one of the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion being disposed inside an axial width of an outer circumference portion of the wave generation device. |
| US09482160B2 |
Valve control device
A cam full close stopper defines a cam full close position that is a limit position of a rotatable range of a cam. A sensor element outputs a signal corresponding to a rotation angle of the cam. A signal processor changes the signal output from the sensor element into a sensor output. A storage part memorizes a data table representing a correspondence relationship between the rotation angle of the cam and the sensor output of the signal processor in a predetermined form, characteristics of the sensor output being adjustable at a plurality of points with respect to the rotation angle of the cam. The storage part memorizes the sensor output of the signal processor when the cam is fully closed at the cam full close position. |
| US09482155B2 |
Isentropic compression inlet for supersonic aircraft
A supersonic inlet includes a relaxed isentropic compression surface to improve net propulsive force by shaping the compression surface of the inlet to defocus the resulting shocklets away from the cowl lip. Relaxed isentropic compression shaping of the inlet compression surface functions to reduce the cowl lip surface angle, thereby improving inlet drag characteristics and interference drag characteristics. Supersonic inlets in accordance with the invention also demonstrate reductions in peak sonic boom overpressure while maintaining overall engine performance. |
| US09482152B2 |
Multi-stroke variable displacement engine
A vehicle propulsion system and method of operation are presented. As one example, cylinder deactivation and transitioning from four to two strokes is coordinated with transmission shifting to improve vehicle response. Additionally, it is possible to reduce transitions in operating modes to improve drive feel. |
| US09482150B2 |
Method for controlling a heat recovery device in an internal combustion engine
A method for controlling a heat recovery device in an internal combustion engine, in particular, for a motor vehicle. The heat recovery device is provided with a circuit for a working medium having an evaporator of an expansion machine that is arranged in an exhaust gas flow path of the internal combustion engine, a condensor, an expansion tank, and a feed pump. The working temperature of the working medium is controlled by varying the mass flow of the working fluid as a function of at least one operating parameter. A setpoint value of the working medium mass flow of an exhaust gas flow path of an exhaust gas tract and/or an exhaust gas recirculation line is calculated on the basis of a base setpoint value for the working medium mass flow. The base setpoint value for the working medium mass flow is at least a function of the exhaust gas temperature, preferably upstream of the evaporator, and of the exhaust gas mass flow in the exhaust gas flow path. |
| US09482149B2 |
Method of and apparatus for operating a supercharger
A method of and apparatus for operating a supercharger for an automotive engine is disclosed. The supercharger has: an input shaft for coupling to an engine crankshaft, and coupled to the rotor of a first electrical machine and a first component of an epicyclic gear train; and an output shaft connected to a compressor and a second component of the epicyclic gear train; wherein the third component of the epicyclic gear train is connected to the rotor of a second electrical machine. The first electrical machine is selectively operable to supply electrical energy to the second electrical machine. The method includes the steps of: (a) calculating a required speed of the second electrical machine that would give rise to a required pressure at an outlet of the compressor; and (b) setting the speed of the second electrical machine to the calculated required speed. |
| US09482140B2 |
Mounting system for aftertreatment component
A mounting system for connecting an aftertreatment component to an engine is disclosed. The mounting system may include at least one flange. The mounting system may also include a support structure having a first end connected to the at least one flange, and a second end connected to an outer shell circumferentially wrapped around the aftertreatment component. The mounting system may further include at least one seal disposed between the outer shell and an outer surface of the aftertreatment component. The at least one seal may be configured to isolate vibration of the engine from the aftertreatment component. |
| US09482134B2 |
Control method for reducing agent supply apparatus and reducing agent supply apparatus
To provide a reducing agent supply apparatus that makes it hard to refill the pump side with a liquid reducing agent upon completion of the suck back control of the liquid reducing agent and a method for control the reducing agent supply apparatus.The method for controlling the reducing agent supply apparatus pressure-feeds the liquid reducing agent in a storage tank using a pump and injects the liquid reducing agent into an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine through a reducing agent injection valve when the internal combustion engine is operating and, when the internal combustion engine stops, sucks the liquid reducing agent remaining in a reducing agent supply path back to the storage tank, in which the suck back control starts when the internal combustion engine stops and, when the suck back control ends, a reducing agent passage interconnecting the pump and the storage tank is opened to air. |
| US09482131B2 |
Exhaust system with zone coated catalyst
An after-treatment system for treating exhaust gas discharged from a combustion engine, the after-treatment system comprising an exhaust after-treatment component including an exhaust after-treatment substrate, the exhaust after-treatment substrate including an inlet face including a first zone having a first catalyst located at a center of the inlet face, and a second zone having a second catalyst located radially outward from the center of the inlet face, wherein an amount of the exhaust gas that travels through the first zone is greater than an amount of the exhaust gas that passes through the second zone, and a catalyst loading of the first catalyst in the first zone is less than a catalyst loading of the second catalyst in the second zone. |
| US09482129B2 |
Vehicular control device and vehicular control method
In a vehicle including an engine, an electrically heatable catalyst device (EHC), and a first motor generator that generates electric power in accordance with the engine's motive power with the vehicle in a substantially stopped state with a vehicular speed lower than a threshold vehicular speed, an ECU determines, based on an amount A by which an accelerator pedal is operated and a vehicular speed V, whether a large accelerator operation has been performed with the vehicle in the substantially stopped state. If the ECU determines that the large accelerator operation has been performed with the vehicle in the substantially stopped state, the ECU activates an energization timer, and before the energization timer reaches a reference energization period of time α, the ECU energizes the EHC, and once the energization timer has reached the reference energization period of time α, the ECU ceases energizing the EHC. |
| US09482123B2 |
Lubrication system for the piston ring and cylinder liner of an internal combustion engine
A disclosed lubrication system for an internal combustion engine includes an inertia reactive oil injector in a piston that reacts to convey lubricating oil to the space between the piston and its adjacent cylinder wall immediately below the upper piston rings as the piston reaches top dead center. A first embodiment utilizes a passage and reservoir formed beneath the piston wall with inlet and outlet ports at each end. The oil injector carries the oil past the intake/exhaust ports of the cylinder until the piston decelerates while approaching its TDC position. During that deceleration, the oil carried by the injector reservoir is delivered through the outlet port into the space between the piston and the cylinder liner. A second embodiment utilizes a groove of predetermined length formed in the outer surface of the piston. A reservoir is formed in the groove and defines inlet and outlet ports at each end. |
| US09482119B2 |
Switching roller finger follower with end stops in secondary arms
A switching roller finger follower including: a housing including first and second walls; a first secondary arm pivotably connected to the housing and including a first groove; a second secondary arm pivotably connected to the housing and including a second groove; and a roller disposed between the first and second walls and including an axle passing through the walls and having a first end disposed in the first groove and a second end disposed in the second groove. A method of fabricating a switching roller finger follower, including: disposing a roller between first and second walls for a housing; passing an axle through the roller and the walls; pivotably connecting first and second secondary arms to the housing; disposing a first end of the axle in a first groove in the first arm; and disposing a second end of the axle in a second groove in the second arm. |
| US09482117B2 |
Systems and methods for power peaking with energy storage
Disclosed illustrative embodiments include systems and methods for power peaking with energy storage. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a power plant includes a thermodynamic piping circuit having a working fluid contained therein, and the working fluid has a flow direction and a flow rate. Power plant components are interposed in the thermodynamic piping circuit. The power plant components include a compressor system, a recuperator system, a heat source, a turbine system, a heat rejection system, and a thermal energy storage system. A valving system is operable to selectively couple the heat rejection system, the thermal energy storage system, and the compressor system in thermohydraulic communication with the working fluid maintaining the flow direction and the flow rate to implement a thermodynamic cycle chosen from a Brayton cycle, a combination Brayton cycle/refrigeration cycle, and a Rankine cycle. |
| US09482116B2 |
Active cold-reheat temperature control system
Various embodiments of the invention include systems for controlling cold-reheat extraction in a turbomachine system. Some embodiments include a system having: a high-pressure (HP) turbine section including an exhaust; a reheater conduit fluidly connected with the exhaust of the HP turbine and a reheater, the reheater conduit for passing HP exhaust steam from the HP turbine section to the reheater; a cold-reheat extraction conduit fluidly connected with the reheater conduit upstream of the reheater and downstream of the HP turbine section exhaust; and a control system coupled with the HP turbine section and the cold-reheat extraction conduit, the control system configured to: obtain data about a temperature of the HP exhaust steam; and provide instructions to modify a flow rate of the HP exhaust steam to the reheater in response to the temperature of the HP exhaust steam exceeding a threshold. |
| US09482112B2 |
Gas turbine comprising a heat shield and method of operation
A turbine has a first and second inner wall, an inner casing and a shield element. The first and second inner walls are mounted to the inner casing such that an inner volume for working fluid is separated from an outer volume for cooling fluid. The first and second inner walls and inner casing are arranged to form a cavity in outer volume. The shield element is arranged inside cavity to separate cavity in an inner and outer region in a radially outer position to the inner region. A gap is formed between the first and second inner walls for working fluid between the inner volume and inner region. The shield element is arranged in cavity to form a fluid inlet for injecting cooling fluid from outer region to inner region for generating a predefined recirculation of working fluid and cooling fluid inside inner region. |
| US09482108B2 |
Turbomachine blade assembly
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a system comprising a turbomachine blade assembly having a blade portion, a shank portion, and a mounting portion, wherein the blade portion, the shank portion, and the mounting portion comprise a first plurality of plies extending from a tip of the airfoil to a base of the dovetail. |
| US09482100B2 |
Multi-lobed cooling hole
A gas turbine engine component subjected to a flow of high temperature gas includes a wall having first and second wall surfaces and a cooling hole extending through the wall. The cooling hole includes an inlet located at the first wall surface, an outlet located at the second wall surface, a metering section extending downstream from the inlet and a diffusing section extending from the metering section to the outlet. The diffusing section includes a first lobe, a second lobe and a transition region. The first lobe diverges longitudinally and laterally from the metering section and has a first shape. The second lobe is generally opposite the first lobe and diverges longitudinally and laterally from the metering section and has a second shape different from the first shape. The transition region is positioned between the first and second lobes and includes a downstream end adjacent the outlet. |
| US09482099B2 |
Rotor blade for a turbomachine and turbomachine
The invention relates to a blade (2) of a turbomachine, in particular a rotor blade of a gas turbine, which has a variable transition radius (Rv1) in the vicinity of at least one platform overhang (16), and to a turbomachine having at least one such blade (2). |
| US09482092B2 |
Rotary internal combustion engine
A rotary engine has a top housing with suction and exhaust ports and bottom housing arranged to receive a crank assembly and a cam assembly. The crank assembly has a crank plate rotatably placed above the bottom housing and a set of semi circular cranks provided at the top surface of the crank plate to travel along with the crank plate. The cranks are positioned opposite to each other and are aligned to the crank plate. A crank shaft arranged to pass through the top housing and bottom housing drive along with the crank plate. The cam assembly has a set of cams placed above the crank plate and arranged to pivot through pivot pins. The cams and the cranks revolve to form an eccentricity with the outer cavity ring and inner cavity ring. The outer cavity ring is provided to surround the crank above the crank plate and the inner cavity ring is placed inside the cranks such that upon rotation of the crank plate and the cranks, two variable volume outer chamber is formed in between the cranks and the outer cavity ring, and two variable volume inner chamber is formed in between the cranks and the inner cavity ring. |
| US09482083B2 |
Controlling vibrations in a drilling system
A method for controlling vibrations in a drilling system, the drilling system including an elongate body extending from surface into a borehole formed in an earth formation, and an associated drive system for driving the elongate body, the drive system comprising a torque controller, the method comprising obtaining a model of the drilling system; obtaining at least one input parameter for the model that relates to an uphole parameter of the drilling system; operating the drive system to provide a drive torque to the elongated body; obtaining at least one output parameter from applying the model using the at least one input parameter, the at least one output parameter including at least one modelled downhole parameter of rotational motion; using the modelled downhole parameter of rotational motion in the torque controller for determining an adjustment to the drive torque, so as to control vibrations; as well as a drilling system comprising a torque controller, which torque controller is adapted to use the modelled downhole parameter of rotational motion for determining an adjustment to the drive torque. |
| US09482081B2 |
Method for preheating an oil-saturated formation
Method for preheating an oil reservoir comprises injecting saturated or superheated steam at an initial injection pressure into a tubing placed inside a well drilled in the oil reservoir. Steam temperature at an outlet of the tubing is measured and a heat flow from the well to the oil reservoir is calculated. An optimal steam injection rate when steam quality of the injected steam at the tubing outlet becomes greater than zero, is calculated, the optimal steam injection rate ensuring compensation of the heat flow from the well to the oil reservoir with the heat of steam condensation. A steam injection rate is decreased to the calculated optimal steam injection rate value by decreasing the initial injection pressure providing constant temperature at the outlet of the tubing. |
| US09482077B2 |
Method for controlling fluid production from a wellbore by using a script
In one aspect, a method is provided for controlling fluid flow in a wellbore containing a plurality of production devices, wherein the method includes the steps of defining a first setting of each production device in the plurality of production devices, defining a change in a parameter relating to fluid flow in the wellbore and using a model to determine a second setting for at least one of the plurality of production devices based on the change in the parameter. The method also includes the step of generating a script corresponding to the second setting, wherein the script is configured to be implemented without modification, and storing the script in a suitable storage medium. |
| US09482073B2 |
Convertible valve with retained conversion element
A convertible valve having a conversion element retained in a seat to convert a valve gate from bidirectional flow to unidirectional flow. The convertible valve includes a valve gate moveable between a first open position and a second closed position, a seat moveable between a first position and a second position, and a conversion element retained in the seat. The seat, in its first position, maintains the valve gate in its first open position. With the valve gate in the first open position, the convertible valve allows bi-directional fluid flow. Fluid flowing through the convertible valve creates downward force on the conversion element and the seat. Upon reaching a predetermined force, the seat moves to its second position allowing the valve gate to move to its second closed position. With the valve gate in the second closed position, the convertible valve allows only unidirectional fluid flow. |
| US09482072B2 |
Selective electrical activation of downhole tools
A method of activating a tool can include displacing a device in the tool, the device transmitting energy to a receiver of the tool, thereby activating the tool, and the transmitting including a control circuitry increasing electrical current flow between an electrical power source and a transmitter in response to a sensor detecting a predetermined stimulus downhole. A system can include a tool including a receiver and an electrical load, and a device which displaces relative to the tool, the device including a transmitter, a sensor and an electrical power source. Another method can include displacing a device in a tubular string including multiple downhole tools, each including a receiver and an electrical load, and the device including a transmitter and a sensor. The transmitter transmits energy to at least one of the receivers in response to sensor detection of a predetermined number of the tools traversed by the device. |
| US09482070B2 |
Method and system for sealing an annulus enclosing a tubular element
The invention provides a method and a system for sealing an annulus enclosing a tubular element in a wellbore. The method comprises the steps of introducing a first drilling fluid in the wellbore; drilling an open hole section of the wellbore using a drilling tool suspended at the end of a drill string; replacing the drilling fluid with a sealing fluid; extending the tubular element into the open hole section of the wellbore; and flushing part of the sealing fluid out of the wellbore, leaving an annulus between the tubular element and a wellbore wall filled with a layer of sealing fluid. The aforementioned steps may be repeated as required. |
| US09482069B2 |
Consumable downhole packer or plug
A packer or plug for use in a wellbore includes: a tubular mandrel made from a composite material including a pyrotechnic composition; an expandable seal disposed on an outer surface of the mandrel; and an igniter operable to initiate combustion of the mandrel. |
| US09482063B2 |
Pipe handling system, apparatus and method
In one aspect the invention provides a tubular handling system for use with a catwalk and a plurality of tubulars arranged in at least one tier and positioned substantially parallel adjacent the catwalk. The system comprises a tiering assembly positioned between said at least one tier and the catwalk and pipe rolling means adapted to move one or more of said tubular between said at least one tier and the tiering assembly in a sequential bi-directional manner. Preferably, the pipe rolling means comprises an auger, auger drive means and an auger positioning assembly. |
| US09482061B2 |
Subsea connector assembly
A subsea connector assembly is provided for automatically coupling a movable subsea structure to a tubular fixed subsea structure. The connector assembly comprises a male connector assembly, removably mountable to the movable subsea structure, and further comprising a throughbore, at least one first actuator member and at least one second actuator member. The connector assembly further comprises an adapter assembly, removably mountable to an end-fitting of a string of tubulars, comprising at least one first engagement member and at least one second engagement member, each of said at least one first and second engagement member are operable to be acted upon by said first and/or second actuator member so as to selectively release a locked engagement with said male connector assembly, allowing said adapter assembly to be moved through said throughbore of said male connector assembly. |
| US09482060B2 |
Adjustable conduit
An apparatus includes a fluid conduit including a plurality of segments having a substantially flexible segment. The substantially flexible segment has substantially concentric inner and outer sidewalls and includes an adjustable pressure device configured to vary an internal annular pressure of the substantially flexible segment to counteract external pressure from a surrounding environment. |
| US09482059B2 |
Jumper support arrangements for hybrid riser towers
A hybrid riser tower is disclosed with a rigid riser column and a buoyancy tank positioned to apply tension to the riser column by buoyant upthrust when the tower is in an upright orientation for use. At least one jumper support structure is attached to a side of the buoyancy tank between upper and lower ends of the buoyancy tank when the tower is oriented for use. At least one riser connection extends outside the buoyancy tank from a riser pipe of the riser column to the jumper support structure, where it connects to a flexible end fitting carried by the jumper support structure. The riser connection splays laterally moving from the riser pipe toward the jumper support structure. |
| US09482058B2 |
Cutting structures and structures for retaining the same
A downhole cutting tool may include a tool body having at least one cutting element support structure formed thereon, wherein the at least one cutting element support structure comprises at least one cutter pocket formed therein; at least one cutter having at least substantially unobstructed cutting face retained within the at least one cutter pocket, the cutter pocket preventing substantial lateral movement of the at least one cutter; and at least one retention element interfacing a portion of a circumferential surface of the at least one cutter. |
| US09482057B2 |
Cutting elements for earth-boring tools, earth-boring tools including such cutting elements and related methods
Cutting elements, earth-boring drill bits having such cutting elements and related methods include a cutting element having a superabrasive table positioned on a substrate, and at least one recessed surface in a cutting face of the superabrasive table. |
| US09482054B2 |
Hole enlargement drilling device and methods for using same
A bottomhole assembly (BHA) coupled to a drill string includes one or more controllers, and a hole enlargement device that selectively enlarges the diameter of the wellbore formed by the drill bit. The hole enlargement device includes an actuation unit that may move extendable cutting elements of the hole enlargement device between a radially extended position and a radially retracted position. The actuation unit may be responsive to a signal that is transmitted from a downhole and/or a surface location. The hole enlargement device may also include one or more position sensors that transmit a position signal indicative of a radial position of the cutting elements. In an illustrative operating mode, one or more operating parameters of the hole enlargement device may be adjusted based on one or more measured parameters. This adjustment may be done in a closed-loop or automated fashion and/or by human personnel. |
| US09482050B2 |
Shade lock assembly
A shade lock assembly for a shade assembly is provided. The shade lock assembly may include a spool rotatably attached to a housing, with the housing defining a pull cord channel. A pull cord may be provided that extends through the pull cord channel and wraps at least partially around the spool. The pull cord channel may include a roller wheel configured to interact with the pull cord and a second wall of the pull cord channel such that it may move between a locked and an unlocked position based at least in part by the angle at which the pull cord is held relative to a plane defined the shade assembly. |
| US09482049B2 |
Curtain body locating mechanism of a curtain with no cord
A curtain body locating mechanism of a curtain with no cord mainly utilizes two separation and reunion units to control the locating effect when a curtain body is being spread or folded. The separation and reunion unit comprises an axle, two braking blocks, a separation and reunion wheel and two planetary gears. The two braking blocks are spaced apart and connected to the periphery of the axle so that a rolling groove is formed between the two braking blocks. The separation and reunion wheel is nested onto the axle and has an inner ring gear surrounding the two braking blocks. Each of the planetary gears is disposed within one of the rolling grooves and engaged with the inner ring gear of the separation and reunion wheel. |
| US09482047B2 |
Sealed slatted blind
A window covering comprises slats suspended from a tilt cord such that the tilt cord may rotate the slats between an open position and a closed position. An elastic seal is provided on the slats to contact adjacent slats when the slats are in the closed position. A mechanism such as a spring or a magnet applies a closing force to the slats in the closed position separate from the tilt cord where the closing force moves the slats toward one another. An elastic seal is provided on the slats to contact adjacent slats when the slats are in the closed position. |
| US09482046B2 |
Fenestration covering tilt system and method
A window covering for a fenestration product having a viewing area includes a plurality of slats extending substantially horizontally, a ladder extending substantially vertically and supporting the slats, and a blind mechanism. The blind mechanism includes a lift mechanism and a tilt ring. The lift mechanism is operably connected to the slats to raise and lower the slats. The tilt ring is operably connected to the ladder and to the lift mechanism such that the tilt ring rotates with the lift mechanism through at least a portion of a revolution of the lift mechanism to tilt the slats when the lift mechanism rotates. |
| US09482044B2 |
Forced entry resistance system for wooden doors and method for manufacturing doors with such system
A forced entry resistance system for a wooden door built with a lock-stile and a hinge-stile includes one or more metal mounts pre-installed inside the door stiles and concealed by door panels. A doorframe mount may be pre-installed inside the lock-jamb at the lock-strike-plate and multiple doorframe mounts may be installed inside the hinge-jamb in the vicinity where door-stile fracture-resistant mounts and hinge reinforcement latch bolts are installed. A method for manufacturing a door and a doorframe with the forced entry resistance system is also disclosed. |
| US09482043B2 |
Hinged door
A door main body includes a through hole formed on an end surface located at an end of the door main body in a rotation axis direction of rotation of the door main body, a cable or a hose being inserted through the through hole. A door frame portion includes: a frame opening portion which is formed on a surface opposed to the through hole and has a shape corresponding to a movement trajectory of the through hole when the door main body is opened or closed; and a slide supporting member supporting the cable or the hose extending through the frame opening portion while sliding relative to the frame opening portion. |
| US09482038B2 |
Latch spacer
A latch spacer for securing a latch assembly in a hollow inner region of a door. The latch spacer includes a plurality of sidewalls. At least a portion of the sidewalk abut against inner surfaces of the sidewalls of the door to provide a friction fit that secures the latch spacer within the inner region. The latch spacer also includes an inner wall that generally defines an opening that is adapted to receive placement of at least a portion of a latch housing. The latch spacer may include at least one crush rib that extends from the sidewalls of the latch spacer. The latch spacer may be arranged in a plurality of orientations to accommodate various door thicknesses. Additionally, portions of the latch spacer may be configured to bend or flex slightly to assist in the latch spacer being able to adjust to different door thicknesses. |
| US09482036B2 |
Self-draining keyed cylinder integrated into door trim
A vehicle door includes an outer panel and an inner frame defining a cavity, wherein a portion of the outer panel defines a generally downward outer surface. A trim member is attached to the outer surface, wherein the trim member and the outer surface define a cylinder receptacle in communication with the cavity. A keyed cylinder is disposed within the cylinder receptacle, wherein a longitudinal axis of the keyed cylinder is substantially normal to the outer surface, and the keyed cylinder slopes downward toward an outward surface of the trim member. The vehicle door also includes an internal locking mechanism and a key aperture of the keyed cylinder, wherein the internal locking mechanism includes a drain channel that slopes toward the key aperture and the cylinder receptacle, and wherein the drain channel is positioned parallel with the longitudinal axis of the keyed cylinder. |
| US09482031B2 |
Cylinder lock including multiple cooperating sidebars for controlling the lock
A cylinder lock includes a side bar assembly comprising a binding bar and a testing bar and code pins, each comprising a key projection, a code hole, and binding features. Partial rotation of the cylinder causes the binding bar to engage the binding features of the code pins to prevent radial movement of the pins. If the code holes of the code pins are aligned with code points of the testing bar, the testing bar is able to move inwardly with the binding bar and out of the slot so as to permit the cylinder to rotate within the bore. If one or more code holes is not aligned with a code point of the testing bar, the code point will contact the body of the code pin and thereby be prevented from moving radially inwardly out of a locking slot, thus blocking rotation of the cylinder. |
| US09482030B2 |
Tamper-resistant locking systems and methods
A locking system that has an opening in a door adapted and arranged for receiving a lock bolt and a lock fixed in a wall for actuating a lock bolt adapting and arranged for being received by the opening in the door when the door is closed. The locking system further comprises a blocking strip protruding from a door jamb, the strip coupled to the door jamb, the strip coupled to the door jamb and positioned adjacent the lock bolt for blocking access to the lock bolt between the door and the door jamb. |
| US09482029B2 |
Paddle latch
A paddle latch having a pan with a well, a paddle handle, a handle pivot, a rotary latch portion, and a trigger arm arrangement. The paddle handle pivot has a pin that non-rotatably engages with the paddle handle to pivotally attach the paddle handle in the well of the pan and has a pin trigger. The rotary latch portion has a housing containing a rotary hook with a mouth, a rotary trigger, and pin trigger cam. The rotary trigger retains the rotary hook in either an open position where the mouth of the rotary hook is accessible from outside of the housing, or semi-closed or completely closed positions, where the mouth is blocked by the housing. The trigger arm arrangement is adapted to transfer of pivotal movement of the paddle handle to the rotary trigger to release the rotary hook from the semi-closed position or the completely closed position to its open position. Only when the rotary hook is in the semi-closed position will the paddle handle be automatically partially tilted out from the well of the pan. |
| US09482021B2 |
Slide and lower modular enclosure transfer system
A non-crane system for moving a pre-fabricated enclosure is disclosed. The system comprises a sliding beam system and a system of coordinated self-contained hydraulic jack units, which in conjunction allow a pre-fabricated enclosure to be slid horizontally off a semi-trailer, positioned above a pre-laid foundation, and lowered to the foundation. Slide beams are arranged perpendicularly to the semi-trailer and supported by blocks at the height of the pre-fabricated enclosure. A cable attachment plate located on each slide beam connects to the pre-fabricated enclosure and is connected by a cable to winches placed at the end of each slide beam. The rotation of the winches pulls the pre-fabricated enclosure off the semi-trailer and onto the sliding beam system. The system of coordinated self-contained hydraulic jack units, which comprises multiple portable self-contained hydraulic jack units, then lowers the pre-fabricated enclosure to the foundation. |
| US09482020B2 |
Method of assembling an offset working platform on a scaffold structure using a foldable knee-out scaffold frame member
A method of assembling an offset working surface on a scaffold. The method uses a scaffold knee-out member having a first and second scaffold members that are pivotally connected. A scaffold connector is positioned on an opposite end of each of the first and second scaffold members remote from the pivot point. Preferably, both connectors are pivotally connected to their respective scaffold members. One of the scaffold members of the knee-out end is coupled to a vertical scaffold, and then the other scaffold member of the knee-out is moved appropriately to allow the first and second scaffold members to pivot with respect to each other, until the other scaffold member is positioned to be coupled to a vertical scaffold member. |
| US09482016B2 |
Shipment and installation of pre-hung doors device and method
Embodiments include a door stabilization device. The door stabilization device can include a clip component, a first fastener portion, and a second fastener portion. The clip component can be configured to fit onto an edge of a door using a compression fit between the first side portion and the second side portion. The first fastener portion is configured to extend through a clip aperture defined by the clip component and at least partially into a latchbolt aperture defined by the door. The second fastener portion configured to mate with the first fastener portion and configured to fit at least partially within the latchbolt aperture and a door knob bore defined by the door. Other embodiments are also included herein. |
| US09482015B2 |
Panel forming
Building panels, especially laminated floor panels are shown, which are provided with a locking system and several core grooves at the rear side in order to save material and decrease weight. Building panels, each having a surface layer on a front side, a backing layer on a rear side and an intermediate core, wherein the intermediate core and the surface and the backing layer all comprise wood fibers and thermosetting resins, said building panels are provided with a locking system for vertical and horizontal locking of a first edge of a first building panel to an adjacent second edge of a second building panel. |
| US09482008B2 |
Heated gutter cover system
A gutter cover heater (30) for a gutter cover comprises a shield (31), a base plate (32), and a heat cable (33). The shield (31) is a longitudinally extended sheet that covers the heat cable (33), is curved over the heat cable (33), has apertures (34), a first long edge (35), and a second long edge (36). The base plate (32) is a flat longitudinally extended sheet under the heat cable (33) and the shield (31), with a first long edge (37) and a second long edge (38); wherein the first long edge of the base plate (35) is debossed. The first long edge (35) of the shield wraps under the debossing of the first long edge of the base plate (35). |
| US09482006B2 |
Architectural panel assembly and tools
This application relates to the field of reveal architectural panels and a tool/clamp for assembly thereof. The apparatus and method replace prior art assembly methods and fasteners with adhesives and a dedicated particularly designed clamp to facilitate assembly. The frame members are modified to facilitate assembly with adhesive sealants and removal of mechanical fasteners. |
| US09482003B2 |
Insulated concrete masonry system
A insulated masonry wall system having insulation blocks between structural and face blocks to provide structures that are strong, inexpensive, avoid thermal bridges, and resist transmission of heat. The walls are attractive and versatile, and an enormous variety of decorative face members may be utilized. The face blocks are attached to the structural blocks to prevent facing materials from falling even if fire destroys the insulation blocks between the structural blocks and the facing. The system resists water penetration and effectively drains water that does penetrate any portion of the system. |
| US09481998B2 |
Fire-rated wall and ceiling system
The present application is directed toward fire-rated wall construction components and wall systems for use in building construction. Embodiments can include tracks for holding studs which incorporate various geometries capable of receiving fire-retardant material, flat straps for use between tracks and fluted wall components, fire sponges for use in fluted wall components, and tracks with protruding grooves or other structures which prevent unwanted air movement between a wallboard component and the track. |
| US09481992B2 |
Freestanding toilet with cast-on toilet tank
Free-standing toilet with cast-on toilet tank, comprising a ceramic toilet body and a ceramic toilet tank, wherein the pressure cast toilet body (2) has an annular flange (11) located on the upper rim of its bowl section (10), which annular flange continues circumferentially around and extends substantially horizontally toward the inside of the bowl section (10) and serves as a border for flushing water that is introduced below the annular flange (11) by means of an introduction unit (14), and in that the toilet tank (3), which is also pressure cast, is fixedly joined to the toilet body (2) by means of a ceramic bonding. |
| US09481988B2 |
Rigid piston retrofit for a diaphragm flush valve
A rigid piston assembly for use in a conventional flush valve includes a rigid piston configured to fixedly engage within the valve body. The present invention is also directed to a flush valve for a plumbing fixture as well as a method of retrofitting a rigid piston into a diaphragm flush valve body. |
| US09481985B1 |
Faucet with safe operating mode on a hot side thereof
A faucet has a main body, a cold water control device mounted onto a first end of the main body, a hot water control device mounted onto a second end of the main body and an outlet device mounted onto a top of the main body. The cold water control device selectively guides cold water flowing into the main body and flowing out from the outlet device. A drive device is laterally mounted onto the hot water control device for driving the hot water control device to selectively guide hot water flowing into the main body and flowing out from the outlet device. The drive device has a first magnet secured to a tube in a casing of the drive device and a second magnet disposed on a clutch shaft of the drive device to provide a repelling force for the clutch shaft. |
| US09481984B2 |
Calibration device for work machine and calibration method of working equipment parameter for work machine
A calibration device for a work machine includes: a working equipment parameter acquiring unit acquiring working equipment parameters of members of first and second actuation units; a measurement value acquiring unit acquiring respective measurement values of the work machine body and first and second actuation units measured by an external measurement device; a first calibration unit calibrating the parameter related to the member of the first actuation unit acquired by the acquiring unit based on the measurement value of the first actuation unit acquired by the acquiring unit; and a second calibration unit calibrating the working equipment parameter of the member of the second actuation unit based on the working equipment parameter of the first actuation unit calibrated by the first calibration unit and the respective measurement values of the reference points of the work machine body and first and second actuation units acquired by the acquiring unit. |
| US09481983B2 |
Performing non-contact based determination of the position of an implement
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method for performing non-contact based determination of the position of an implement. In one embodiment, the method includes using a non-contact based measurement system to determine a first measurement comprising the position of the implement relative to a mobile machine coupled with the implement, determining a second measurement comprising the geographic position of the mobile machine and determining the geographic position of the implement using the first measurement and the second measurement. |
| US09481980B2 |
Device for fixing a lower glass for a construction machinery cabin
An apparatus can detachably fix the lower glass of the cab according to a working environment through simple adjustment of an adjustment knob. The apparatus detachably fixes the lower glass of the cab according to a working environment includes a lower bracket fixedly installed on a lower side of a window frame of the cab and including a rubber member to prevent a secession of the lower glass; a knob support plate including a fixing plate having a guide groove and a position setting hole, and a support plate having a compression pad, wherein the fixing plate is fixedly installed on an upper side of the window frame and the support plate compressively supports one side of an upper portion of the lower glass; and an adjustment knob provided with a projection portion that is fitted into the guide groove to be slidably guided clockwise or counterclockwise. |
| US09481978B2 |
Thumb with detachable body
A thumb for an excavator includes a base with an inner end adapted to be connected to an excavator arm and an outer end, wherein the outer end of the base includes a body mount structure. A thumb body is releasably connected to the base. The body includes an outer working portion, an inner tail portion, and a coupling or pivot portion located between the working portion and the tail portion. The coupling portion of the body is engaged with the body mount structure of the base, and the tail portion of the body is releasably secured or captured to the base so that the body is located in an operative position for use of its working portion. The tail portion of the body includes first and second spaced-apart tail members. The tail portion of the body and the base include respective mating portions that are engaged with each other when the body is installed in its operative position on the base, and forces are transferred from the body to the base through these mating portions to minimize shear forces acting on the fasteners. |
| US09481974B2 |
Method and apparatus for repairing the wall of a manhole
The present invention comprises a method and kit for repairing the wall of a manhole wherein a material capable of curing and hardening is adhered to the wall. An expandable bladder engages the curable and hardenable material and presses against and smoothes the material. The bladder may be chemically bonded. |
| US09481971B2 |
Incrementally adjustable fluid control system and methods of installing and adjusting same
The present invention provides a water control system with the reservoir level versatility of a weir stack and the relatively easy drainage of a water control gate. Multiple stack beams constrained between two opposed guide channels create a fluid reservoir having an incrementally adjustable fluid level. Increasing or decreasing the reservoir level is a matter of adding or removing one or more stack beams. To create an opening for draining fluid from any level of the reservoir, a picker mechanism captures at least one of the stack beams. By lifting the captured stack beam, and any stack beams atop the captured stack beam, the picker mechanism opens a gate at any level of the reservoir through which fluid may flow. |
| US09481970B2 |
Gabion
The present invention relates to a gabion comprising opposed first and second side walls connected together at spaced intervals along the length of the gabion by a plurality of partition walls, the first and second side walls comprising open framework panels, and wherein the first side wall is lined with a first lining material comprising a layer of a sheet material, the sheet material having a relatively low water permeability compared with an unlined open framework panel, and further wherein the second side wall is lined with a second lining material having a higher water permeability than the first lining material. The present invention also relates to a multi-compartmental gabion having similar features. The present invention also relates to a water containment system comprising a gabion or multi-compartmental gabion according to the invention. The present invention also relates to a method of deploying a water containment system. |
| US09481969B2 |
Mobile barrier
A safety trailer including first and second platforms, at least one of the first and second platforms having an axle and wheels attached thereto; a plurality of interconnected wall sections positioned between and connected to the first and second platforms, the plurality of wall sections defining a protected work area on a side of the trailer; and wherein each wall section has a plurality of full height and partial height wall members, the full height wall members extending substantially the height and width of the wall section and the partial height wall members extending substantially the width but less than the height of the wall section, the full height and partial height members alternating along a length of the wall section. |
| US09481967B2 |
Pavement repair system utilizing solid phase autoregenerative cohesion
A method for repairing asphalt pavement involves passing an emitter over a surface of a damaged asphalt pavement comprising aged asphalt, wherein the emitter comprises a birefringent material through which the electromagnetic radiation generated by the emitter passes, wherein the emitter generates electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of from about 2 microns to 1 millimeter, the radiation penetrating into the pavement to a depth of at least 2 inches, wherein a temperature differential throughout a top two inches of pavement is 100° F. or less, wherein a highest temperature in the top two inches of pavement does not exceed 300° F., and wherein a minimum temperature in the top two inches of pavement is at least 200° F. |
| US09481964B1 |
System for communications between plant and machines
A system for controlling a paving system includes a plurality of supply machines, a paving machine, and a plant. A first controller determines the position of each supply machine. A second controller determines the rate at which paving material is being applied to a work surface and transmits the rate at which the paving material is being applied. A temperature sensor is associated with one of the plurality of supply machines and the paving machine for determining a temperature of paving material at the paving machine. The plant is configured to produce a batch of paving material and a third controller determines a batch temperature, and generates instructions indicative of a desired route for each supply machine between the plant and the paving machine based upon the position of each supply machine, traffic information data, the batch temperature, and the temperature of paving material at the paving machine. |
| US09481963B2 |
Manufacturing method of carboxymethyl cellulose nonwoven fabric and use of carboxymethyl cellulose nonwoven fabric manufactured thereby
The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of a carboxymethyl cellulose nonwoven fabric which includes the carboxymethylation of cellulose fibers and the subsequent paper-making process to prepare a carboxymethyl cellulose nonwoven fabric. Comparing with the conventional method involving carboxymethylation of a nonwoven fabric, the method of the present invention has convenience and easiness of the process and thus enables production on a large scale. Further, the carboxymethyl cellulose nonwoven fabric manufactured by the present invention is susceptible to gelation upon contact with body fluids or water and thus useful as a medical nonwoven fabric or a mask pack. |
| US09481961B2 |
Antimicrobial finish on fabrics
A formulation is provided which comprises at least one phenolic compound in an amount of about 0.5 to about 1.2% of the mass of the formulation; at least one fragrance in an amount of about 0.3 to about 1.0% of the mass of the formulation; and at least one alcohol in an amount of about 90 to about 99% of the mass of the formulation. Said formulation is surfactant free and being capable of rendering anti-microbial finish to fabrics. And also, a process for preparing a fabric with anti-microbial finish is provided. |
| US09481959B2 |
Household cleaning appliance with a dispensing system operable between a single use dispensing system and a bulk dispensing system
In a household cleaning appliance configured to execute a cleaning cycle on an article, having a non-bulk dispensing system that stores a single dose of treating chemistry that the dispensing system dispenses to the treating chamber in total as part of the execution of the cleaning cycle, the method includes adding bulk dispensing functionality to the non-bulk dispensing system for operating the dispensing system as a bulk dispensing system. |
| US09481954B2 |
Processing apparatus for hot-air treatment of fiber constituting nonwoven fabric to produce nonwoven fabric, and processing process for the same
A processing apparatus and a processing method capable of producing a point-through-air nonwoven fabric wherein hot air is allowed to penetrate through spots of a web or a sheet-like material and fibers at the penetration site are heat-bonded. The processing apparatus for hot-air treatment nonwoven fabric, includes: a rotating running endless belt with holes, a hot-air blowing apparatus which blows out hot air from an internal side of the endless belt with holes toward an outer side thereof, and an endless belt for fiber conveyance which is arranged on a side opposite to the hot-air blowing side of the hot-air blowing apparatus across the endless belt with holes and the endless belt for fiber conveyance rotates while the hot-air passes therethrough. |
| US09481951B2 |
Needle nook
The present invention relates to a knitting needle holder, wherein a set of knitting needles can be held in a channel of the holder while allowing for a knitting project to be held through an opening in the holder while engaged in an ongoing knitting project and having a pivot opening and magnetic closure mechanism. |
| US09481950B2 |
Proliferated thread count of a woven textile by simultaneous insertion within a single pick insertion event of a loom apparatus multiple adjacent parallel yarns drawn from a multi-pick yarn package
A method, a device and/or a system of proliferating a thread count of a woven textile by simultaneous insertion within a single pick insertion event of a loom apparatus multiple adjacent parallel yarns drawn from a multi-pick yarn package. In one or more embodiments, multiple texturized polyester weft yarns of denier between 15 and 65 are wound on a single bobbin in a parallel adjacent fashion such that they may be fed into an air jet pick insertion apparatus and/or a rapier pick insertion apparatus of an air jet loom to weave a textile that has between 90 to 235 ends per inch cotton warp yarns and between 100 and 965 polyester weft yarns. |
| US09481947B2 |
Method and device for monitoring contacts of a rotating component of a textile machine
A method for monitoring contact of a rotating component of a textile machine, in particular of a clothing roller of a card, for example a card cylinder, with a further component of the textile machine. The two components are connected to an electrical power source, but are normally electrically isolated from each other, and only in the case of a contact between the two components, a short-circuit is generated, which is detected by the monitoring device. The duration of individual short-circuits per time unit (T) is detected and summed up so as to form a total duration (t) of all short-circuits per time unit (T). |
| US09481945B2 |
Methods and devices for multiplexed microarray microfluidic analysis of biomolecules
Rapid and specific detection of biological cells and biomolecules is important to biological assays across diverse fields including genomics, proteomics, diagnoses, and pathological studies. Microarrays and microfluidics increasingly dominate such detection techniques due to the ability to perform significant numbers of tests with limited sample volumes. A snap chip assembly is provided for the transfer of a microarray of reagents within semi-spherical liquid droplets on a transfer chip to a target assay microarray on an assay chip following assembly of the two chips and physical contact of the droplets with the target array. Reagents in nanoliter quantities are spotted on both chips and selectively transferred as liquid droplets between transfer chip and assay chip within the contact areas. Using the snap chip structure the inventors performed immunoassays with colocalization of capture and detection antibodies with 10 targets and bead-in-gel droplet microarrays with 9 targets in the low pg/ml regime. |
| US09481943B2 |
Gallium trichloride injection scheme
A system for epitaxial deposition of a Group III-V semiconductor material that includes gallium. The system includes sources of the reactants, one of which is a gaseous Group III precursor having one or more gaseous gallium precursors and another of which is a gaseous Group V component, a reaction chamber wherein the reactants combine to deposit Group III-V semiconductor material, and one or more heating structures for heating the gaseous Group III precursors prior to reacting to a temperature to decompose substantially all dimers, trimers or other molecular variations of such precursors into their monomer forms. |
| US09481942B2 |
Geometry and process optimization for ultra-high RPM plating
Various embodiments herein relate to methods and apparatus for electroplating metal onto substrates. The apparatus used to practice electroplating may be designed to have a geometric configuration that makes it difficult for air to travel and become trapped under the substrate. By using such apparatus, electroplating can occur at higher rates of substrate rotation than would otherwise be acceptable. The higher rate of substrate rotation allows electroplating to occur at higher limiting currents, which in turn increases throughput. The disclosed embodiments are particularly useful in the context of electrolytes that otherwise exhibit a relatively low limiting current (e.g., electrolytes having a low concentration of metal ions), though the embodiments are not so limited. |
| US09481941B2 |
Method for the treatment, by percolation, of a felt element by means of electrode-position
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for methods for manufacturing a metallized or metallizable felt by percolation of at least one felt element by electrodeposition. |
| US09481939B2 |
Electrochemical device for converting carbon dioxide to a reaction product
An electrochemical device converts carbon dioxide to a reaction product. The device includes an anode and a cathode, each comprising a quantity of catalyst. The anode and cathode each has reactant introduced thereto. A polymer electrolyte membrane is interposed between the anode and the cathode. At least a portion of the cathode catalyst is directly exposed to gaseous carbon dioxide during electrolysis. The average current density at the membrane is at least 20 mA/cm2, measured as the area of the cathode gas diffusion layer that is covered by catalyst, and CO selectivity is at least 50% at a cell potential of 3.0 V. In some embodiments, the polymer electrolyte membrane comprises a polymer in which a constituent monomer is (p-vinylbenzyl)-R, where R is selected from the group consisting of imidazoliums, pyridiniums and phosphoniums. In some embodiments, the polymer electrolyte membrane is a Helper Membrane comprising a polymer containing an imidazolium ligand, a pyridinium ligand, or a phosphonium ligand. |
| US09481938B2 |
Electrochemical reduction method of carbon dioxide using solution containing potassium sulfate
The embodiments described herein pertain generally to an electrochemical reduction method of carbon dioxide under a solution condition containing potassium sulfate. |
| US09481935B2 |
Aqueous composition for pretreating a metal surface before applying another coating or for treating said surface
The present invention relates to an aqueous composition for pretreating a metallic surface before further coating or for treating said surface. The aqueous composition is obtained by adding a) at least [one] sodium, potassium, and/or ammonium water glass and b) at least one silane to water. The quantity ratio of a) to b), in each case including the resulting reaction products, is preferably in the range of 0.1:1 to 2:1. |
| US09481934B2 |
Method of removing work-affected layer
A method of removing a work-affected layer formed on the worked surface of a TiAl-based alloy (base material) by machining work, without exerting any adverse effect on the base material. The method of removing the work-affected layer includes a step of dipping a TiAl-based alloy, having a work-affected layer formed on the surface thereof by machining, in an etchant containing predetermined concentrations of hydrofluoric acid and nitric acid. Within the etchant, the concentration of the hydrofluoric acid is not less than 5 g/L and not more than 56 g/L, and the concentration of the nitric acid is selected from within a range from not less than 50 g/L to not more than 260 g/L in accordance with a combination of the concentration of the hydrofluoric acid within the etchant and the etching treatment temperature. |
| US09481932B2 |
Method and apparatus for progressively forging a hard disk drive base plate
A method and apparatus for forming a hard disk drive base plate with a sequence of progressive forging operations is described. The method may include advancing an initial hard disk drive base plate cut from an extruded sheet through a plurality of stations of a transfer die assembly. The method may also include performing a sequence of forgings on the initial hard disk drive base plate to progressively form parts on a hard disk drive base plate. |
| US09481929B2 |
Vapor deposition apparatus, vapor deposition method and method of manufacturing organic light emitting display apparatus
A vapor deposition apparatus for depositing thin films on a substrate includes a supply unit including a plurality of linear supply members configured to supply at least one gas; and a nozzle unit including a plurality of nozzle members connected to the plurality of supply members and configured to supply the at least one gas toward the substrate, wherein two adjacent nozzle members of the plurality of nozzle members are connected to at least one common supply member of the plurality of supply members. |
| US09481927B2 |
Method of making inorganic or inorganic/organic hybrid barrier films
A method for forming an inorganic or hybrid organic/inorganic barrier layer on a substrate, comprising condensing a vaporized metal alkoxide to form a layer atop the substrate, and contacting the condensed metal alkoxide layer with water to cure the layer is provided. |
| US09481926B2 |
Vanadium oxide thermo-sensitive film material with high temperature coefficient of resistance and a preparing method thereof
A vanadium oxide thermo-sensitive film material with a high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) contains a rare earth element of Yttrium serving as a dopant in a preparation process. The vanadium oxide thermo-sensitive film material includes a substrate and a yttrium-doped vanadium oxide film layer. The yttrium-doped vanadium oxide film layer includes three elements of vanadium, oxygen and yttrium, wherein the atomic concentration of yttrium is at a range of 1%-8%, the atomic concentration of vanadium is at a range of 20-40% and the residue is oxygen. The method for preparing the vanadium oxide thermo-sensitive film material with high TCR includes a reactive magnetron sputtering method using a low-concentration yttrium-vanadium alloy target as a sputtering source or a reactive magnetron co-sputtering method using dual targets including a high-concentration yttrium-vanadium alloy target and a pure vanadium target as a co-sputtering source. |
| US09481925B2 |
Titanium diboride target
A titanium diboride target contains fractions of one or more metals from the group including iron, nickel, cobalt and chromium as well as carbon. The mean grain size of TiB2 grains is between 1 μm and 20 μm, the carbon content is in a range of 0.1 to 5% by weight and the total content of Fe, Ni, Co and/or Cr is in a range of 500 to 3,000 μg/g. The carbon is distributed in free form at the grain boundaries of the TiB2 grains in such a way that mean distances between individual carbon particles are less than 20 μm. The porosity is less than 5% by volume. |
| US09481922B2 |
Process for forming porous metal coating on surfaces
Embodiments of the invention provide a thermal spray method of forming a protective and porous coating over desired surfaces. Further, embodiments provide a thermal arc spray method, such as twin wire arc spray, to coat the surfaces. The invention may refer to using Aluminum and Silicon alloy in a twin wire arc spray method, to create sacrificial and protective coatings on the surfaces, such as substrates and machine parts. Machine parts may be, for example, of sputtering system. The method may utilize a predefined range of Silicon to be alloyed with Aluminum to improve the physical properties of the Aluminum, and further avoid damages to the coated surface, such as de-lamination and flaking of the coatings and coated surfaces. Additionally, generation of defects during a sputtering process may be efficiently reduced. |
| US09481921B2 |
Zirconium alloy composition having low hydrogen pick-up rate and high hydrogen embrittlement resistance and method of preparing the same
Disclosed herein are zirconium alloy compositions having a low hydrogen pick-up rate and high hydrogen embrittlement resistance. This zirconium alloy composition can be usefully used as a nuclear fuel components in a nuclear power plant because it has a very low hydrogen pick-up rate and high hydrogen embrittlement resistance under operation environments of nuclear power plant. |
| US09481920B2 |
Aluminium alloy forging and method of manufacture for same
Disclosed is an aluminum alloy forging for use in automotive suspension parts and the like, and a method of manufacture for same. The aluminum alloy forging contains Si 0.4-1.5 wt %, Fe greater than 0.4 wt % and equal to or less than 1.0 wt %, Cu equal to or less than 0.40 wt %, Mg 0.8-1.3 wt % and Ti 0.01-0.1 wt %; Zn is restricted to equal to or less than 0.05 wt %; and the aluminum alloy forging contains at least one selected from among the following group comprising: Mn 0.01-1.0 wt % and Cr 0.1-0.4%; and Zr 0.05-0.2 wt %. Hydrogen content is restricted to 0.25 ml or less per 100 g of Al, and the remainder is composed of unavoidable impurities and Al. The average grain size is 50 μm or less, the crystallized area ratio is 3% or less, and the average crystallized grain size is 8 μm or less. |
| US09481914B2 |
Methods for the diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis
The present invention relates to methods for the diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis based on an analysis of a patient sample. For example, patient test samples are analyzed for the presence or absence of one or more lactobacilli and two or more pathogenic organisms. The presence or absence of one or more lactobacilli and two or more pathogenic organisms may be detected using PCR analysis of nucleic acid segments corresponding to each target organism. The quantity of the target organisms can then be used to determine a score which is indicative of a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis. |
| US09481913B2 |
Sequences and their use for detection and characterization of E. coli O157:H7
This invention relates to a rapid method for detection and characterization of Escherichia coli bacteria serotype O157:H7 based on the presence of nucleic acid sequences, in particular, to a PCR-based method for detection, and to oligonucleotide molecules and reagents and kits useful therefore. This method is preferably employed to detect E. coli O157:H7 in a food or water sample, such as a beef enrichment. The present invention further relates to replication compositions and kits for carrying out the method of the present invention. |
| US09481911B2 |
Methods for detecting FGFR3/TACC3 fusion genes
[Problem] The present invention aims to elucidate a polynucleotide as a novel responsible gene for cancer and aims to thus provide a method for detecting the polynucleotide and a polypeptide encoded by the polynucleotide and a detection kit, a probe set, and a primer set for the detection. The present invention also aims to provide a pharmaceutical composition for treating cancer.[Means for Solution] The method detects a fusion gene composed of a portion of an FGFR3 gene and a portion of a TACC3 gene or a fusion protein encoded by the fusion gene. The primer set, the probe set, or the detection kit comprises a sense primer and a probe set designed from the portion encoding FGFR3 and an antisense primer and a probe set designed from the portion encoding TACC3. Since an inhibitor of the polypeptide exhibits antitumor effect, a pharmaceutical composition for treating cancer which is positive for either the fusion gene or the polypeptide is provided. |
| US09481908B2 |
Compositions, devices, systems, and methods for using a nanopore
The invention herein disclosed provides for devices and methods that can detect and control an individual polymer in a mixture is acted upon by another compound, for example, an enzyme, in a nanopore in the absence of requiring a terminating nucleotide. The devices and methods are also used to determine rapidly (˜>50 Hz) the nucleotide base sequence of a polynucleotide under feedback control or using signals generated by the interactions between the polynucleotide and the nanopore. The invention is of particular use in the fields of drug discovery, molecular biology, structural biology, cell biology, molecular switches, molecular circuits, and molecular computational devices, and the manufacture thereof. |
| US09481907B2 |
Methods for multiplexing amplification reactions
A two-step multiplex amplification reaction includes a first step which truncates the standard initial multiplex amplification round to “boost” the sample copy number by only a 100-1000 fold increase in the target. Following the first step the product is divided into optimized secondary single amplification reactions, each containing one of the primer sets that were used previously in the first or multiplexed booster step. The booster step can occur using an aqueous target nucleic acid or using a solid phase archived nucleic acid. In particular, nucleic acid sequences that uniquely identify E. Coli were identified using the multiplex amplification method. |
| US09481906B2 |
Automatic light measurement device with a movable mount for coupling with multiple reaction containers
The invention relates to an automatic response/light measurement device and a method therefor, and the purpose is to effectively and quickly perform an optical measurement relating to a reaction with high reliability without increasing a device size. The device is configured to have: a container group in which a plurality of reaction containers are arranged; a measurement mount provided with a plurality of coupling ends that are joinable with apertures of the reaction containers, and have light guide portions that optically connect with the interior of the joined reaction containers; a mount transfer mechanism; a measuring device having a measuring end having at least one light guide portion that is optically connectable to the light guide portions of the coupling ends, that is able to receive light based on an optical state within the reaction containers; an on-mount measuring end transfer mechanism; and a measurement control portion. |
| US09481902B2 |
Quantitative control of sialylation and specific mono-sialylation
The present disclosure is directed to the use of certain glycosyltransferase variants having N-terminal truncation deletions. It was found that the combination of two different truncation variants of human β-galactoside-α-2,6-sialyltransferase I (hST6Gal-I) exhibited different specific sialyltransferase enzymatic activities. In one example, under conditions wherein the first variant Δ89 hST6Gal-I catalyzed formation of bi-sialylated target molecules the second variant Δ108 hST6Gal-I catalyzed formation of mono-sialylated target molecules. Thus, disclosed are variants of mammalian glycosyltransferase, nucleic acids encoding the same, methods and means for recombinantly producing the variants of mammalian glycosyltransferase and use thereof, particularly for sialylating in a quantitatively controlled manner terminal acceptor groups of glycan moieties being part of glycoproteins such as immunoglobulins. |
| US09481901B2 |
Methods for increasing mannose content of recombinant proteins
The present invention relates to methods of upregulating the high mannose glycoform content of a recombinant protein during a mammalian cell culture by manipulating the mannose to total hexose ratio in the cell culture media formulation. |
| US09481900B2 |
Polypeptides having oxidoreductase activity and their uses
The invention relates to a polypeptide having oxidoreductase activity which comprises the amino acid sequence set out in SEQ ID NO: 3 or an amino acid sequence encoded by the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, or a variant polypeptide thereof having 45% or more sequence identity with the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. The invention also relates to a process for the production of 2,5-furan-dicarboxylic acid (FDCA) or production of 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxylic acid (HMF acid). |
| US09481896B2 |
Stem cell gene targeting
The invention provides a method for generating a transgenic eukaryotic cell population having a modified human Rosa26 locus, which method includes introducing a functional DNA sequence into the human Rosa26 locus of starting eukaryotic cells. Also provided are targeting vectors useful in the method, as well as a cell population and a transgenic non-human animal comprising a modified human Rosa26 locus. Finally, the invention provides an isolated DNA sequence corresponding to the human Rosa26 locus. |
| US09481894B2 |
Methods of inducing regulated pancreatic hormone production in non-pancreatic islet tissues
Disclosed are methods and pharmaceutical compositions for inducing pancreatic hormone production. |
| US09481893B2 |
DNA capable of inducing osteoblast-specific expression
The invention provides nucleotide sequences that function as enhancers and induce osteoblast-specific expression, expression vectors comprising such an enhancer, a promoter, and a gene containing a coding region, as well as screening methods utilizing such expression vectors. |
| US09481892B2 |
Controlled activation of non-LTR retrotransposons in mammals
The invention relates to nucleic acids, vector constructs which allow the controlled activation and inhibition of retrotransposition of non-LTR retrotransposons. The methods of this invention are useful for preparing said nucleic acids and vector constructs and introducing them into cells. |
| US09481890B2 |
Modification of plant development and morphology
A method of modifying morphology in a plant comprising introducing into a plant at least one chimaeric gene comprising a promoter sequence operably associated with a nucleic acid sequence, the promoter sequence being operable to direct expression in specific cells of the plant and the nucleic acid sequence encoding at least one gene product capable of altering the metabolism of or causing death of the specific cells and/or nearby cells. In particular, the promoter sequence is operable to direct expression in lateral bud or lateral shoot and the nucleic acid encoding at least one gene product capable of disrupting the metabolism of or causing the death of the lateral bud or lateral shoot or nearby cells. Preferably the promoter sequence comprises the sequence shown as SEQ ID No. 1 or SEQ ID No. 7 or SEQ ID No. 4, or a part thereof capable of regulating expression of a gene, or a sequence having at least 60%, preferably at least 75%, homology to SEQ ID No. 1 or SEQ ID No. 7 and being capable of regulating expression of a gene. |
| US09481886B2 |
RNA silencing in animals as an antiviral defense
The present invention provides recombinant DNA constructs for inactivation of viral or endogenous genes in a cell, wherein the construct comprises viral sequence sufficient to activate RNA silencing. In another aspect, the invention provides methods for identifying RNA silencing suppressors by sequence analysis and functional tests. In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for identifying inhibitors of RNA silencing suppressors. In still other aspects, the invention comprises methods for identifying genes in the antiviral RNA silencing pathway, enhancers of the antiviral pathway, and methods of treating or preventing viral infections using enhancers of the pathway. |
| US09481879B2 |
Preparation of stabilized catalase enzymes with a surfactant
There is provided a method of producing a stabilized microcrystalline cellulose powder containing catalase enzyme. In the method, cellulose is thoroughly mixed with phosphate borate and catalase, rinsed with water and a surfactant added. The stabilized powder may be mixed with various skin solutions (lotions, ointments and the like). The catalase enzyme can catalyze the reaction of peroxide to oxygen. |
| US09481875B2 |
PCSK9 vaccine
The present invention relates to the provision of immunogens comprising an antigenic PCSK9 peptide linked to an immunogenic carrier for the prevention, treatment or alleviation of PCSK9-mediated disorders. The invention further relates to methods for production of these medicaments, immunogenic compositions and pharmaceutical compositing thereof and their use in medicine. |
| US09481873B2 |
Polypeptides having ferulic acid esterase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having ferulic acid esterase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09481872B2 |
Nucleic acid-free thermostable enzymes and methods of production thereof
The present invention provides thermostable enzymes, such as DNA polymerases and restriction endonucleases, that are substantially free from contamination with nucleic acids. The invention also provides methods for the production of these enzymes, and kits comprising these enzymes which may be used in amplifying or sequencing nucleic acid molecules, including through use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). |
| US09481865B2 |
Serum-free freezing medium used in adipose-derived stem cells and establishment of adipose-derived stem cell library
Disclosed is a serum-free freezing medium used in adipose-derived stem cells and a method for establishing an adipose-derived stem cell library. The serum-free freezing medium comprises a serum-free culture medium, dimethyl sulfoxide and a serum substitution component KSR; the defects of unstable freezing quality of the adipose-derived stem cells and influence of harmful factors in serum on the adipose-derived stem cells are solved, and the adipose-derived stem cells stored have the advantages of high survival percentage, well adherence growth and strong differentiation capacity. |
| US09481862B2 |
Delivery agent
A composition and method for delivering a peptide or protein into a cell comprising a polycationic agent and a polyanionic agent, wherein the polyanionic agent comprises an inorganic polyphosphate or a polyoxometalate and/or the polycationic agent comprises a polyalkyleneimine. |
| US09481859B2 |
Method of stabilizing yeast fermented beverages
A method of preparing yeast fermented beverage is provided, comprising (a) fermenting wort with yeast to produce a fermented liquid containing yeast, alcohol, polyphenols and protein; (b) optionally removing the yeast; (c) combining the fermented liquid with polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) particles to bind at least a fraction of the polyphenols and/or proteins, wherein at least 80 wt. % of the PVPP particles have a diameter of 5-300 μm; (d) removing a slurry containing the PVPP particles; (e) filtering the slurry over a filter having a pore size of 0.1-80 μm to produce a PVPP-enriched retentate and a PVPP-depleted filtrate; (f) regenerating the PVPP particles in the PVPP-enriched retentate by desorbing and separating the polyphenols and/or protein from the PVPP-particles; and (f) optionally, further refining and recirculating the regenerated PVPP particles to step (c). The method can be operated with single use PVPP or regenerable PVPP and does not require capacious filter hardware. |
| US09481858B2 |
Silicon wafer cleaning agent
A silicon wafer cleaning agent includes at least a water-based cleaning liquid, and a water-repellent cleaning liquid for providing water-repellent to an uneven pattern at least at recessed portions during a cleaning process. The water-repellent cleaning liquid is a liquid composed of a water-repellent compound containing a reactive moiety which is chemically bondable to Si in the silicon wafer, and a hydrophobic group, or is a liquid wherein 0.1 mass % or more of the water-repellent compound relative to the total quantity of 100 mass % of the water-repellent cleaning liquid and an organic solvent are mixed and contained therein. A cleaning process wherein a pattern collapse is easily induced can be improved by using the cleaning agent. |
| US09481857B2 |
Acid formulations for use in a system for warewashing
Methods of acidic warewashing are disclosed. The compositions can include other materials including surfactants and chelating agents, and are preferably phosphorous free. Methods of using the acidic compositions in combination with alkaline compositions are also disclosed. Exemplary methods include using the acidic compositions together with other compositions, including alkaline compositions and rinse aids employed in an alternating alkaline/acid/alkaline manner. The methods also include acidic compositions that serve multiple roles. |
| US09481854B2 |
Cleaning composition that provides residual benefits
A composition for use on a hard surface. The composition has: (i) at least 7.5 wt. % of at least one surfactant selected; (ii) a transport rate factor of less than about 55 seconds; and (iii) an adhesion time of greater than about 8 hours. |
| US09481852B2 |
High viscosity synthetic ester lubricant base stock blends
Cross blends of synthetic ester base stocks are produced from high viscosity synthetic ester base stocks having a viscosity from about iso 120 to 140 and conventional synthetic ester base stocks of varying viscosities to form base stocks having viscosities from about iso 68 to iso 220. Lubricants formed from the cross blends have sufficient miscibility with HFC refrigeration fluids with minimal use of i-C9 carboxylic acids to form the ester. |
| US09481850B2 |
Maleinized ester derivatives
This disclosed invention relates to a maleinated ester derivative derived from an unsaturated linear aliphatic carboxylic acid methyl ester, maleic anhydride, and a monohydric alcohol. Lubricants and functional fluids containing the maleinated esters are disclosed. |
| US09481847B2 |
Ultraviolet curable resin composition, sliding member, and method for producing sliding member
There is provided a resin composition for a machinable liner of a sliding member. An ultraviolet curable resin composition for a self-lubricating liner contains a (meth)acrylate compound having an isocyanuric acid ring represented by the following formula and PTFE as a solid lubricant. In the formula (1), X is a group which contains an acryloyl group and is composed only of C, H, and O. Y and Z are groups each composed only of C, H, and O. PTFE is contained in an amount of 10 to 50% by weight with respect to a total amount of the ultraviolet curable resin composition. The ultraviolet curable resin composition is suitable for a self-lubricating liner 24 of a spherical bearing 20 having an outer race 22 and an inner race 26. |
| US09481846B2 |
Sliding film, member on which sliding film is formed, and manufacturing method therefor
There is provided a sliding film formed on a surface of a member which slides relative to another member. The sliding film includes, a metal-doped tetrahedral amorphous carbon layer; and a surface layer that is formed on top of the metal-doped tetrahedral amorphous carbon layer and has a higher coefficient of kinetic friction than the metal-doped tetrahedral amorphous carbon layer. |
| US09481843B2 |
Apparatus for sweetening and/or dehydrating a hydrocarbon gas, in particular a natural gas
An apparatus for actuating method for removing acidity and/or moisture from a hydrocarbon gas, by absorption into a sweetening liquid and into a dehydration liquid, that are adapted to extract acid compounds or water from the gas, respectively. The apparatus includes at least such a container and a gas convey selective convey means, for actuating the treatment modes, in particular responsive to a flowrate of the gas. The apparatus according to the invention allows to maintain the sweetening and/or dehydration efficiency, in particular in the case of a progressive reduction of the flowrate of natural gas that can be obtained from a well or gasfield. |
| US09481842B2 |
Systems and processes for production of fuel and fuel blends
Systems and processes for the production of fuel and fuel blends involve the production of fuels for blending with one or more alcohols such as ethanol and/or butanol. A method for producing a fuel blend includes blending a light distillate product from an oil refinery with butanol. The fuel blending can be at the oil refinery. |
| US09481839B2 |
Hot oxygen nozzle and uses thereof in gasifiers
A hot oxygen nozzle and uses thereof in a gasifier, the hot oxygen nozzle comprising an outer-ring spout, a middle-ring spout, an inner-ring spout, and a central spout all sequentially and coaxially disposed, and a cooling system; the gasifier is an entrained-flow gasifier provided with one or more nozzles on a certain plane or a plurality of planes at the top or on the periphery of the gasifier body. The nozzle has a simple structure and is easy to make and maintain. A fuel gas passage is disposed inside the nozzle. Oxygen can be heated by a combustion of fuel gas; and high-temperature and high-speed oxygen can directly ignite carbonaceous materials such as coal-water slurry and coke-oven gas. The present invention can be applied in a gasifier and then in the final process of synthesis gas preparation. |
| US09481838B2 |
Capture and storage of emissions from a gasifier
A system includes a capture system, a storage system, and a return system. The capture system is configured to receive an outlet gas from a gasification system and to extract a component gas of the outlet gas using a regenerable material during a start-up operation of the gasification system. The storage system is coupled to the capture system and is configured to store the component gas extracted by the capture system. The return system is configured to return the component gas from the storage system to the gasification system during a normal operation of the gasification system. |
| US09481836B2 |
Upgrading sugar-alcohol derived gas oil in a gas oil hydrocracker
Biomass derived gas oil is blended with petroleum derived gas oil and upgrading into more salable and more valuable products by co-processing the blended material in a gas oil hydrocracking system comprising two reactors where the blended material is first hydrotreated and then hydrocracked. |
| US09481835B2 |
Optimal asphaltene conversion and removal for heavy hydrocarbons
The invention provides improved apparatus and method for producing a pipeline-ready or refinery-ready feedstock from heavy, high asphaltene crude, comprising a pre-heater for pre-heating a process fluid to a design temperature at or near the operating temperature of a reactor; moving the process fluid into the reactor for conversion of the process fluid by controlled application of heat to the process fluid in the reactor so that the process fluid maintains a substantially homogenous temperature to produce a stream of thermally affected asphaltene-rich fractions, and a stream of vapor. The stream of vapor is separated into two further streams: of non-condensable vapor, and of light liquid hydrocarbons. The thermally affected asphaltene-rich fraction is deasphalted using a solvent extraction process into streams of heavy deasphalted oil liquid, and concentrated asphaltene, respectively. The deasphalted oil liquid and the light liquid hydrocarbons produced are blended to form a pipeline or refinery-ready feedstock. |
| US09481834B2 |
Carbon dioxide fractionalization process
A method comprises separating a hydrocarbon feed stream having carbon dioxide into a heavy hydrocarbon stream and a light hydrocarbon stream. The light hydrocarbon stream is separated into a carbon dioxide-rich stream and a carbon dioxide-lean stream. At least a portion of the carbon dioxide-lean stream is fed to a hydrocarbon sweetening process. Another method comprises receiving a hydrocarbon feed stream that comprises 30 molar percent to 80 molar percent carbon dioxide. A heavy hydrocarbon stream is separated from the hydrocarbon feed stream, wherein the heavy hydrocarbon stream comprises at least 90 molar percent C3+ hydrocarbons. A carbon dioxide-rich stream is separated from the hydrocarbon feed stream, wherein the carbon dioxide-rich stream comprises at least 95 molar percent carbon dioxide. |
| US09481830B2 |
Cholesteric liquid crystal mixture, film, selective reflective plate, laminate, laminated glass
A cholesteric liquid-crystal mixture containing a compound represented by the general formula (Ia), a compound represented by the general formula (Ib), a fluorine-containing horizontal alignment agent and a polymerization initiator is capable of forming a film which is prevented from precipitation of liquid-crystal compounds therein, of which the haze is reduced and which has a broad reflection width. Z1—Y1-A1-Y3-M1-Y4-A2-Y2—Z2 General Formula (Ia) Z3—Y5-A3-Y7-M2-P General Formula (Ib) |
| US09481829B2 |
Compound, haze-lowering agent, liquid crystal composition, polymer material, and film
A compound represented by the following formula (1) has sufficient solubility, a wide usable concentration range, and excellent haze-lowering performance. In the formula, L1 to L6 represent a single bond, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, etc; Sp1 to Sp4 represent a single bond or alkylene of 1 to 10 carbon atoms; A1 and A2 represent trivalent or tetravalent aromatic hydrocarbon or heterocyclic; T represents the following formulae, etc; Hb represent perfluoroalkyl of 2 to 30 carbon atoms; m and n are 2 or 3; and o and p are an integer of 0 or more. |
| US09481826B2 |
Electronic device comprising metal complexes
Organic electroluminescent devices comprising metal complexes according to the formula (1) and metal complexes for use in organic electroluminescent devices. |
| US09481825B2 |
Electrochromic material, method for preparing the same and component comprising the same
The present invention relates to a polythiophene electrochromic material, which is a copolymer of [3,4-bis(2-ethylhexyloxy)thiophene]-thiophene-[3,4-dimethoxy thiophene] represented by Formula I: wherein, 0 |
| US09481823B2 |
Synergistic chemistry to prevent silicate scaling
Two intermediates that have known separate efficacy for preventing scales such as calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate and barite (barium sulfate) were discovered to have a synergistic effect for preventing or inhibiting silicate scaling when used together. Each of these intermediates is ineffective at preventing silicate scaling when used alone; however, when used in combination, they have a synergistic benefit. In one non-limiting embodiment the components include a polyamine phosphonate and a lysine tetra(alkylene)phosphonate. |
| US09481819B2 |
Method of manufacturing alumina-based abrasive grain and alumina-based abrasive grain manufactured thereby
Provided are a method of manufacturing an alumina-based abrasive grain, which includes preparing boehmite powder and activated alumina powder as starting materials, forming a sol by wet-blending and crushing the boehmite powder, the activated alumina powder, a solvent and a deflocculant, heating the sol at a first temperature which is higher than a room temperature and lower than a boiling point of the solvent and stirring the sol so as not to generate a precipitate, forming a gel by heating the sol at a second temperature higher than the first temperature at which a viscosity of the sol is increased and the sol becomes a paste, blending the gel with an organic solvent and performing wet crushing on the resulting mixture, preparing a powder by drying the wet-crushed gel, blending a binder and a solvent with the dried product, which is the powder, and molding the resulting mixture, calcining the molded product, performing dry crushing on the calcined product, and sintering the dry-crushed product to transform activated alumina and boehmite contained therein to an α-Al2O3 crystal phase, and an alumina-based abrasive grain manufactured thereby. As a result, an alumina-based abrasive grain which is highly dense, has a high hardness, and exhibits a high purity may be manufactured using boehmite powder and activated alumina powder. |
| US09481817B2 |
Composition for the production of silicone rubber materials
The present invention relates to a catalyst for the cross-linking of silicone rubber materials with a cross-linker on the basis of lactate. In particular, the present invention provides a composition for the production of a silicone rubber material with a cross-linker on the basis of lactate, wherein the composition comprises a catalyst, which comprises at least two compounds, which are different from each other and which are selected independently of each other from metal salts of carboxylic acids. In addition, the present invention provides a method for the production of such a composition, as well as a use of the catalyst for the cross-linking of a silicone rubber material, in particular for cross-linking a silicone rubber material with a cross-linker on the basis of lactate, as well as a use of the composition of the present invention for the production of a silicone rubber material, in particular for use as a sealant, an adhesive, or a coating agent. |
| US09481812B2 |
Polishing agent, polishing method and additive liquid for polishing
A polishing agent includes a particle of a metal oxide, a water-soluble polyamide, an organic acid and water. The water-soluble polyamide has a tertiary amino group and/or an oxyalkylene chain in a molecule thereof. The polishing agent has a pH of 7 or less. |
| US09481810B2 |
Silylated polyarylenes
Polyarylenes comprising as polymerized units a first monomer having two cyclopentadienone moieties and a second monomer having two or more alkyne moieties, wherein at least one alkyne moiety is directly bonded to a silicon atom are provided. Such polyarylenes are useful as dielectric materials in the manufacture of electronic devices. |
| US09481802B2 |
Coating composition, coating method, air conditioner, ventilation fan, and electrical equipment
A coating composition having high dirt prevention properties and improved adhesiveness to hydrophobic surfaces such as those made of a plastic, and a coating method are provided. More specifically, provided is a coating composition, including: hydrophobic resin particles dispersed in an aqueous medium; hydrophilic inorganic fine particles; and an oxidizing agent containing at least one of a peroxide, a perchloric acid, a chlorate, a persulfuric acid, a superphosphoric acid, and a periodate, and also provided is a coating method including the steps of: preparing a first agent having hydrophilic inorganic fine particles and hydrophobic resin particles dispersed in an aqueous medium; preparing a second agent by adding, to the first agent, an oxidizing agent containing at least one of a peroxide, a perchloric acid, a chlorate, a persulfuric acid, a superphosphoric acid, and a periodate; applying the second agent onto a member to be coated; and drying the second agent on the member to be coated. |
| US09481796B2 |
Method for producing nanoparticles
A method for producing a nanoparticle to separate a diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment includes separating an α-type diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment nanoparticle having high crystallinity by carrying out separation of the diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment and crystal type transformation to the α-type with substantially a single step. The α-type diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment nanoparticle is separated by mixing a diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment solution having the diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment dissolved in a solvent and an alcohol solvent containing an alcohol compound solvent in a thin film fluid formed between at least two processing surfaces 1 and 2 arranged to be opposite to each other so as to be able to approach to and separate from each other, at least one of which rotates relative to the other. An acidic substance is contained in at least any one of the diketopyrrolopyrrole pigment solution and the alcohol solvent at this moment. |
| US09481792B2 |
Dynamically crosslinked thermoplastic material process
A method for making a thermoplastic material includes: (a) partially crosslinking an elastomer composition at a first crosslinking temperature to form a thermoplastic, partially crosslinked elastomer composition; (b) mixing a thermoplastic polymer composition with the thermoplastic, partially crosslinked elastomer composition and heating the mixture to a second crosslinking temperature higher than the first crosslinking temperature, wherein the thermoplastic polymer composition is liquid at the second crosslinking temperature; and (c) continuously mixing the mixture while further crosslinking the elastomer composition to form a thermoplastic material having a dispersed phase of crosslinked elastomer composition in the thermoplastic polymer composition. The elastomer composition may include an elastomer compounded with a curing agent and optionally additional components. A thermoplastic material resulting from this process may be molded or shaped by any method used for forming thermoplastic materials into articles, such as molding, extrusion, or thermoforming. |
| US09481789B2 |
Matrix resin composition, prepreg and method for producing the same, and fiber-reinforced composite material
The present invention relates to a method for producing a prepreg which contains reinforcing fibers and a matrix resin composition with the weight per square meter of the reinforcing fibers being 250-2,000 g/m2. The production method comprises the following steps (1)-(3): (1) a matrix resin composition blending step for obtaining a matrix resin composition by mixing an epoxy resin, a radically polymerizable unsaturated compound, an epoxy resin curing agent and a polymerization initiator that generates radicals, in said step the content of the radically polymerizable unsaturated compound relative to 100% by mass of the total of the epoxy resin and the radically polymerizable unsaturated compound being 10-25% by mass; (2) a matrix resin composition impregnating step; and (3) a surface viscosity increasing step. |
| US09481787B2 |
Method for producing latent curing agent
A latent curing agent formed by holding an imidazole compound in porous resin particles is produced by emulsifying an oil phase obtained by dissolving a polyfunctional isocyanate compound in an organic solvent in an amount of 1.5 to 5 times by mass the amount of polyfunctional isocyanate compound in an aqueous phase obtained by dissolving a water-soluble polypeptide and a surfactant in water, then subjecting the emulsion to interfacial polymerization, adding a proteolytic enzyme to carry out an enzyme degradation treatment, then recovering the porous resin particles, and making an imidazole compound solution permeate into the recovered porous resin particles. |
| US09481786B2 |
Thermoplastic rubber composition and molded product using same
Disclosed is a thermoplastic rubber composition comprising, based on 100 parts by weight of a block terpolymer (A) of an aromatic vinyl compound and an alkene compound, 50 to 100 parts by weight of a paraffin oil (B), 30 to 70 parts by weight of an inorganic additive (C), 5 to 30 parts by weight of a polyolefin-based resin (D), and 30 to 70 parts by weight of an acryl-based resin (E). The hardness of the thermoplastic rubber composition may be freely adjusted and the thermoplastic rubber composition has a bonding strength of 2 to 4 N/mm as measured using a UTM according to a KS M 6518 peeling test method. Accordingly, bonding strength thereof to a thermoplastic resin is increased even without addition of an adhesive. |
| US09481784B2 |
Rubber composition for anti-vibration rubber
A rubber composition for anti-vibration rubber, comprising rubber components, the rubber composition comprising 4 to 40 parts by weight of the following component out of the rubber components when the whole amount of the rubber components is regarded as 100 parts by weight: a lithium catalyst-type polyisoprene rubber. |
| US09481782B2 |
Rubber composition, inner liner material, and pneumatic tire
Provided is a rubber composition having superior gas-barrier properties. More specifically, the rubber composition contains a layered compound and a modified butyl-based rubber having a functional group that interacts with the layered compound. |
| US09481779B2 |
Fluorescent ink composition, and preparation method therefor
The present invention relates to an adhesive varnish composition having remarkably improved optical loss and haze values for use in an optical material, and a method for preparing the same. Specifically, an adhesive varnish prepared by the method according to the present invention shows high light transmittance and can prevent yellowing by maintaining the stable dispersion of a filler due to a high viscosity. In addition, the adhesive varnish according to the present invention can be applied to various fields such as a silicon film, a diffusion sheet, a reflective sheet, a reflector, an LED, an LED package, a COB, and the like. |
| US09481775B2 |
Polyurethane scorch inhibitor
An additive composition for inhibiting scorch in a polyurethane foam composition, the additive comprising a derivatized hydroquinone; a derivatized lactone; and a derivatized phenolic compound. A polyurethane foam composition contains the additive composition. |
| US09481774B2 |
Methods for altering the impact strength of noncellular thermoplastic materials
Methods for reducing the density of thermoplastic materials and the articles made therefrom having similar or improved mechanical properties to the solid or noncellular material. Also disclosed are improvements to foaming methods and the cellular structures of the foams made therefrom, and methods for altering the impact strength of solid or noncellular thermoplastic materials and the shaping of the materials into useful articles. |
| US09481765B2 |
Synthesis of a diallylammonium/SO2 copolymer bearing phospho- and sulfopropyl pendents
A zwitterionic monomer and corresponding cyclopolymerized polyzwitterion (±) (PZ) (i.e. poly(Z-alt-SO2). Phosophonate ester hydroloysis in PZ gave a pH-responsive polyzwitterionic acid (±) (PZA). The PZA under pH-induced transformation was converted into polyzwitterion/anion (±−) (PZAN) and polyzwitterion/dianion (±=) (PZDAN). |
| US09481763B2 |
Preparing chloride-free polyethyleneimines
In a method of preparing polyalkyleneimines from alkyleneimines in the presence of a liquid solvent, and a catalyst, the preparing is effected semi-discontinuously in one reaction container. The preparing is optionally effected in the presence of further additives.Polyalkyleneimines obtained by such methods and formulations thereof likewise form part of the subject matter of the invention, especially those having a low proportion of chloride-containing compounds. Such polyalkyleneimines have uses in the field of medical technology, printing media, wastewater treatment, surface treatment, cosmetics, laundry detergents, biotechnology, packaging, electronics, paper, building construction chemistry, textiles, chromatography, ion exchangers, oil industry, ceramics, glass, membrane technology, catalysts, electroplating, biocides or wood protection. Further possible uses include as corrosion inhibitor, dispersant, additive in oils, for formulation of drugs, haircare products, scents and aromas, for preparing gene vectors, for functionalizing and modifying surfaces in electroplating and medical technology or for preparing cleaning systems for the semiconductor industry and lithium batteries. |
| US09481760B2 |
High recycle content polyols from thermoplastic polyesters and lignin or tannin
Polyester polyols, processes for making them, and applications for the polyols are disclosed. In some aspects, the polyols comprise recurring units from a thermoplastic polyester or an aromatic polyacid source, a glycol, and a lignin, tannin, or mixture thereof. Optionally, the polyols incorporate recurring units of a hydrophobe. The polyols are made in one or multiple steps; in some aspects, the thermoplastic polyester or aromatic polyacid source and the glycol are reacted first, followed by reaction with the lignin, tannin, or mixture thereof. High-recycle-content polyols having desirable properties and attributes for formulating polyurethane products, including two-component polyurethane coatings, can be made. The polyols provide a sustainable alternative to bio- or petrochemical-based polyols. |
| US09481756B2 |
Curable composition
The present invention relates to a curable composition including: (a) at least one compound having at least one (meth)acrylic functional group in the molecule thereof, which is selected from a (meth)acrylic monomer and a (meth)acrylic oligomer; (b) an organic peroxide; (c) an o-benzoic sulfimide; and (d) an oxazoline compound, in which the component (d) is contained in an amount of 0.005 to 10 parts by mass based on 100 parts by weight of the component (a). |
| US09481746B2 |
Modified high-cis isoprene polymer, method for producing the same, and tire containing aforementioned polymer
A modified high-cis isoprene polymer, a method for producing the same, and a tire containing the aforementioned polymer are provided. A polymerization reaction is performed on isoprene monomers in an organometallic catalyst system to form a high-cis isoprene polymer having an organometallic active site, wherein the organometallic active site is formed by an organometallic catalyst system. The high-cis isoprene polymer having the organometallic active site is reacted with a modifier mixture including a first modifier and a second modifier via the organometallic active site. The first modifier and the second modifier are compounds represented by formula 1 and formula 2, respectively: X—R1-Si(R2)3 formula 1, and R3-Si(R4)3 formula 2, wherein X, R1, R2, R3, and R4 are defined in the specification. |
| US09481745B2 |
Catalyst components for the polymerization of olefins
The present technology relates to a solid catalyst component for the polymerization of olefins comprising Mg, Ti and an electron donor of the general formula (I): where R1 is selected from C1-C15 hydrocarbon groups, the R2 groups are equal to or different from each other, are hydrogen, or the R1 groups can be fused together to form one or more cycles and A is a bivalent bridging group. The catalyst components of the present disclosure exhibit high activity and stereospecificity in the polymerization of olefins. |
| US09481742B2 |
Continuous process for the manufacture of highly-branched polymers
The present invention relates to a continuous process for the manufacture of highly-branched homo- or copolymers of C3-C8 ethylenically unsaturated mono- or dicarboxylic acid as well as the anhydrides and salts thereof (monomer A) by means of free-radical polymerization of monomer A and optionally water-soluble, monethylenically unsaturated comonomers (monomer B) in an aqueous medium in the presence of at least one water-soluble initiator, wherein the polymerization takes place in at least one tubular reactor segment. |
| US09481740B2 |
Methods of making high impact polystyrene
A process for producing high impact polystyrene including feeding at least one vinyl aromatic monomer, an elastomer, and a free radical initiator to a first linear flow reactor to form a reaction mixture. Polymerizing the reaction mixture in the first linear flow reactor to a point below the point at which phase inversion occurs to produce a first polymerization mixture and feeding the first polymerization mixture from the first linear flow reactor to a second linear flow reactor. Polymerizing the reaction mixture in the second linear flow reactor to at least a phase inversion point of the mixture to produce a second polymerization mixture and feeding the second polymerization mixture from the second linear flow reactor to at least a third linear flow reactor for post-inversion polymerization of the second polymerization mixture. The product stream can have an ESCR value of at least 10% toughness retained with less than 10 wt % rubber content. |
| US09481738B2 |
Method for producing cellulose ether
Provided is a method for producing cellulose ether whose aqueous solution is transparent and contains a smaller amount of water-insoluble portion. The method comprises at least the steps of: providing at least two alkali cellulose materials having different compositions, each of the materials having been prepared by bringing a pulp into contact with a solution of alkali metal hydroxide and draining; and mixing the at least two alkali cellulose materials having different compositions, wherein each weight ratio of the alkali metal hydroxide in each of the alkali cellulose materials having different compositions to a solid component in the pulp (alkali metal hydroxide/solid component in pulp) is equal to 0.4 to 2.5 times of a weight ratio of alkali metal hydroxide in the alkali cellulose obtained in the step of mixing to solid components in a sum of pulps used for preparation of the alkali cellulose materials. |
| US09481735B2 |
IL-17 binding proteins
Proteins that bind IL-17 and/or IL-17F are described along with their use in compositions and methods for treating, preventing, and diagnosing IL-17 related diseases and for detecting IL-17 in cells, tissues, samples, and compositions. |
| US09481727B2 |
Anti-DLL3 antibody drug conjugates
Novel modulators, including antibodies and derivatives thereof, and methods of using such modulators to treat proliferative disorders are provided. |
| US09481725B2 |
Antibodies to HGF and compositions containing
The present invention is directed to antibodies and fragments thereof having binding specificity for HGF. Another embodiment of this invention relates to the antibodies described herein, and binding fragments thereof, comprising the sequences of the VH, VL and CDR polypeptides described herein, and the polynucleotides encoding them. The invention also contemplates conjugates of anti-HGF antibodies and binding fragments thereof conjugated to one or more functional or detectable moieties. The invention also contemplates methods of making said anti-HGF antibodies and binding fragments thereof. Embodiments of the invention also pertain to the use of anti-HGF antibodies, and binding fragments thereof, for the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of diseases and disorders associated with HGF. |
| US09481722B2 |
T1R taste receptors and genes encoding same
Newly identified mammalian taste-cell-specific G protein-coupled receptors, and the genes and cDNA encoding said receptors are described. Specifically, T1R G protein-coupled receptors active in taste signaling, and the genes and cDNA encoding the same, are described, along with methods for isolating such genes and for isolating and expressing such receptors. Methods for representing taste perception of a particular taste stimulus in a mammal are also described, as are methods for generating novel molecules or combinations of molecules that elicit a predetermined taste perception in a mammal, and methods for simulating one or more tastes. Further, methods for stimulating or blocking taste perception in a mammal are also disclosed. |
| US09481719B2 |
Recombinant production of peptides
The present invention relates to repetitive self-assembling precursor proteins, nucleic acid sequences and expression constructs encoding the same, and to methods for recombinant production of peptides using such precursor proteins. |
| US09481709B2 |
Boropeptide inhibitors of enteropeptidase and their uses in treatment of obesity, overweight and/or diseases associated with an abnormal fat metabolism
Novel compounds, particularly derivatives of boroarginine, boroornithine and borolysine that selectively modulate, regulate, and/or inhibit enteropeptidase. Compositions, particularly pharmaceutical compositions, as well as methods to treat excess weight, obesity and diseases associated with an abnormal fat metabolism. |
| US09481707B2 |
α-oxoacyl amino-caprolactam derivative
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a pharmaceutical composition that is useful for the treatment of diseases that are caused by an increase in bone resorption and that does not cause serious side effects even when used in combination with another drug. The present invention relates to: an α-oxoacyl aminocaprolactam derivative that is represented by formula (I) (in the formula, X is —O— or —N(R1)— and R1 represents an alkoxycarbonyl group having 1-10 carbon atoms); and a bone resorption inhibitor containing the α-oxoacyl aminocaprolactam derivative. |
| US09481705B2 |
Modular radiochemistry synthesis system
A modular chemical production system includes multiple modules for performing a chemical reaction, particularly of radiochemical compounds, from a remote location. One embodiment comprises a reaction vessel including a moveable heat source with the position thereof relative to the reaction vessel being controllable from a remote position. Alternatively the heat source may be fixed in location and the reaction vial is moveable into and out of the heat source. The reaction vessel has one or more sealing plugs, the positioning of which in relationship to the reaction vessel is controllable from a remote position. Also the one or more reaction vessel sealing plugs can include one or more conduits there through for delivery of reactants, gases at atmospheric or an elevated pressure, inert gases, drawing a vacuum and removal of reaction end products to and from the reaction vial, the reaction vial with sealing plug in position being operable at elevated pressures. The modular chemical production system is assembled from modules which can each include operating condition sensors and controllers configured for monitoring and controlling the individual modules and the assembled system from a remote position. Other modules include, but are not limited to a Reagent Storage and Delivery Module, a Cartridge Purification Module, a Microwave Reaction Module, an External QC/Analysis/Purification Interface Module, an Aliquotting Module, an F-18 Drying Module, a Concentration Module, a Radiation Counting Module, and a Capillary Reactor Module. |
| US09481704B2 |
2′-substituted carba-nucleoside analogs for antiviral treatment
Provided are compounds of Formula I, as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing compounds of Formula I and methods for treating Orthomyxoviridae virus infections by administering these compounds. The compounds, compositions, and methods provided are particularly useful for the treatment of Human Influenza virus infections. |
| US09481700B2 |
Method for preparing isofagomine and its derivatives
A method for preparing isofagomine, its derivatives, intermediates and salts thereof using novel processes to make isofagomine from D-(−)-arabinose and L-(−)-xylose. |
| US09481699B1 |
Platinum(II) complexes with thione ligands and methods thereof
Platinum(II) complexes having thione-based heterocyclic ligands as anticancer agents. The central platinum atom is coordinated by four of the ligands, each having a five-, six- or seven-membered heterocyclic ring with two nitrogen atoms at positions 1 and 3 of the ring and a thiocarbonyl group at position 2. Pharmaceutical compositions incorporated the platinum(II) complexes, methods of synthesizing the complexes and methods of treating cancers with the complexes or pharmaceutical compositions thereof are also described. |
| US09481695B2 |
Amino acid-modified siloxanes, process for preparing them and application
A process for preparing amino acid-modified siloxanes that can be carried out under mild conditions is provided as well as organically modified silicones for care formulations for skin, hair and textiles that are toxicologically unobjectionable. |
| US09481693B1 |
Mixed ligand gold(III) complexes as anti-cancer agents
Gold(III) complexes with mixed ligands as anticancer agents. The gold(III) cations are coordinated to bidentate ligands having diamino functional groups: a diaminocyclohexane ligand and a 1,3-propylenediamine ligand. The diaminocyclohexane ligand can exist in both cis- and trans-configurations, resulting in isomeric gold(III) complexes. Also described are pharmaceutical compositions incorporating the gold(III) complexes, methods of synthesis, methods of treating cancer and methods of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and inducing cancer cell apoptosis. |
| US09481689B2 |
sGC stimulators
Compounds of Formulae I′ and I are described, which are useful as stimulators of sGC, particularly NO-independent, heme-dependent stimulators. These compounds are also useful for treating, preventing or managing various disorders that are herein disclosed. |
| US09481688B2 |
(Thieno[2,3-b][1,5]benzoxazepin-4-yl)piperazin-1-yl compounds as dual activity H1 inverse agonists/5-HT2A antagonists
A dual H1/5-HT2A receptor antagonist of the formula: its uses, and methods for its preparation are described. |
| US09481683B2 |
1,3-benzothiazinone sulfoxide and sulfone compounds
A compound, having the following formula: or resonance form thereof, or salt thereof, or salt of resonance form thereof is provided, wherein R1-R4 and n are defined herein. Compositions and methods including the compound are also provided. |
| US09481681B2 |
Dihydroetorphines and their preparation
The present invention provides a process for the preparation of a compound of formula (VI), or a salt or derivative thereof, wherein R1 and R2 are independently C1-8 alkyl and * represents a stereocentre. |
| US09481666B2 |
Substituted dihydroisoquinolinone compounds
This invention relates to compounds of general formula (I) in which R1, R2, R3, R4, L, X and Z are as defined herein, and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and salts, and to methods of using such compounds, salts and compositions for the treatment of abnormal cell growth, including cancer. |
| US09481659B2 |
Selective heterocyclic sphingosine 1 phosphate receptor modulators
Compounds that selectively modulate the sphingosine 1 phosphate receptor are provided including compounds which modulate subtype 1 of the S1P receptor. Methods of chiral synthesis of such compounds is provided. Uses, methods of treatment or prevention and methods of preparing inventive compositions including inventive compounds are provided in connection with the treatment or prevention of diseases, malconditions, and disorders for which modulation of the sphingosine 1 phosphate receptor is medically indicated. |
| US09481658B2 |
Optical film, retardation plate, elliptica polarizing plate, liquid crystal display device and compound
An optical film including at least one compound represented by formula (1) is disclosed. In the formula, Y11, Y12 and Y13 each independently represent methine or a nitrogen atom; R11, R12 and R13 each independently represent formula (A), (B) or (C) or a hydrogen atom, provided that at least two of R11, R12 and R13 each independently represent formula (A), (B) or (C). In the formulae, L12, L22, and L32 each represent a 5-membered heterocyclic group. |
| US09481657B2 |
Photo-sensitive resin composition, cured film, method for forming a pixel, solid state image sensor, color filter and ultraviolet absorber
Provided is a photo-sensitive composition capable of yielding pixels having a high translucency and a large refractive index, with a less amount of development residue in the process of formation. The photo-sensitive resin composition contains an ultraviolet absorber represented by Formula (I); a photo-polymerization initiator; and a polymerizable monomer: wherein each of R1, R2 and R3 independently represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; one of R4 and R5 represents an electron withdrawing group, and the other of R4 and R5 represents —SO2R6, —CO2R6, —COR6, —CN or —CONR6R7; each of R6 and R7 independently represents a hydrogen atom, alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms or aryl group. |
| US09481654B2 |
Compositions and methods for inhibition of the JAK pathway
The invention encompasses compounds having formula I and the compositions and methods using these compounds in the treatment of conditions in which modulation of the JAK pathway or inhibition of JAK kinases, particularly JAK3, are therapeutically useful. |
| US09481651B2 |
Process for the preparation of 4-alkoxy-3-hydroxypicolinic acids
4,6-Dibromo-3-hydroxypicolinonitrile may be prepared from furfural in a series of chemical steps selected from cyano-amination, amine salt formation and bromination-rearrangement. 4-Alkoxy-3-hydroxypicolinic acids may be conveniently prepared from 4,6-dibromo-3-hydroxypicolinonitrile in a series of chemical steps selected from bromo substitution, nitrile hydrolysis and halogen reduction. |
| US09481650B2 |
Process for the preparation of 2-trifluoromethyl isonicotinic acid and esters
The invention relates to a novel process for the preparation of 2-trifluoromethyl isonicotinic acid and esters of the formula I which involves a palladium catalyzed carbonylation or cyanation step wherein R1 is hydrogen or Q1-6-alkyl. The 2-trifluoromethyl isonicotinic acid and esters of the formula I are versatile intermediates for the preparation of active pharmaceutical and agrochemical agents such as for instance TAAR 1 agonists of the formula III. |
| US09481646B2 |
Low calcemic, highly antiproliferative, analogs of calcitriol
The disclosure provides compounds, compositions and methods using these compounds and compositions to stimulate the differentiation of cells and inhibit excessive cell proliferation of certain cells, including cancer cells and skin cells, which may be useful in the treatment of diseases characterized by abnormal cell proliferation and/or cell differentiation such as leukemia, myelofibrosis and psoriasis without the well known effect on calcium metabolism, which gives rise to hypercalcemia. |
| US09481644B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition comprising omega-(arylsulfonyl)alkylnitrile
The present invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and a ω-(arylsulfonyl)alkylnitrile compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The present invention is also directed to a method for treating inflammation, inflammatory-related disorders, or pain, by administering an ω-(arylsulfonyl)alkylnitrile compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof to a subject in need thereof. |
| US09481640B2 |
Electron deficient olefins
This invention relates to novel electron deficient olefins, such as certain 2-cyanoacrylates and methylidene malonates, prepared using an imine or an iminium salt. |
| US09481639B2 |
Substituted tetracycline compounds for treatment of inflammatory skin disorders
Methods and compositions for the treatment of skin disorders (e.g., acne, rosacea) are described. |
| US09481638B2 |
Scandium extraction method
Provided is a method for selectively extracting and inexpensively recovering scandium from an acidic solution containing calcium, magnesium, and scandium. The scandium extraction method according to the present invention involves subjecting an acidic solution containing calcium, magnesium, and scandium to solvent extraction using an extraction agent consisting of an amide derivative represented by the general formula below. In the formula, R1 and R2 represent the same or different alkyl groups, and R3 is a hydrogen atom or alkyl group. The amide derivative preferably consisting of one or more derivatives selected from glycine amide derivatives, histidine amide derivatives, lysine amide derivatives, and aspartic acid amide derivatives. The pH of the acidic solution is preferably pre-adjusted to between 1 and 4. |
| US09481633B2 |
Acetylated polyglycerine fatty acid ester and a PVC insulator plasticised therewith
The present disclosure is directed to acetylated polyglyceride fatty acid ester and compositions containing the same. The acetylated polyglyceride fatty acid ester may be blended with an epoxidized fatty acid ester. The present acetylated polyglyceride fatty acid ester and blends find advantageous application as a plasticizer. |
| US09481632B1 |
Totally randomized trans fat free butters
Butters are a specific class of cosmetic triglycerides that provide a unique feel on skin. There are very few such materials in nature. In order for a butter to be of interest to the personal care market, it must be (1) soft at room temperature; (2) must not “crack” when handled; (3) must be able to be applied to the skin at ambient temperature by rubbing; (4) must liquefy upon rubbing, (5) must be free of rancidity and (6) must be free of trans acids that are the result of partial hydrogenation. For unsaturated oils to be made into butters, partial hydrogenation is the most common approach. This results in the formation of trans acids which are highly undesirable.The present invention discloses a series of non-hydrogenated butters made by a process referred to as totally randomized triglycerides. The butters are made using a very specific range of very specific types and ratios of fatty acids to glycerin to provide the highly desirable cosmetic butters meeting the requirements 1-5 above. |
| US09481631B2 |
Phenolic hydroxyl group-containing compound, phenolic hydroxyl group-containing composition, (meth)acryloyl group-containing resin, curable composition, cured product thereof, and resist material
The present invention provides a (meth)acryloyl group-containing resin having excellent heat resistance and a phenolic hydroxyl group-containing compound used as a raw material of the resin. A phenolic hydroxyl group-containing compound has a molecular structure represented by general formula (1) below [in the formula, R1, R2, and R3 are each independently an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, m and n are each independently an integer of 1 to 4, p is an integer of 0 to 4, V is a hydrogen atom, a (meth)acryloyloxy group, or a hydroxyl group, and W, X, and Y are each independently a (meth)acryloyloxy group or a hydroxyl group], wherein at least one of V, W, X, and Y is a hydroxyl group, and at least one of V, W, X, and Y is a (meth)acryloyloxy group. |
| US09481627B2 |
Methods for suppressing isomerization of olefin metathesis products
A method for suppressing isomerization of an olefin metathesis product produced in a metathesis reaction includes adding an isomerization suppression agent to a mixture that includes the olefin metathesis product and residual metathesis catalyst from the metathesis reaction under conditions that are sufficient to passivate at least a portion of the residual metathesis catalyst. The isomerization suppression agent includes (i) a salt and/or an ester of a phosphorous oxo acid, and/or (ii) a derivative of the phosphorous oxo acid in which at least one P—H bond has been replaced by a P—C bond, and/or (iii) a salt and/or an ester of the derivative. Methods of refining natural oils are described. |
| US09481617B2 |
Catalyst for conversion of hydrocarbons, process of making and process of using thereof—Ge zeolite
In an embodiment a catalyst comprises a medium or large pore zeolite having germanium incorporated into the zeolite framework. The zeolite can have a pore structure that is one dimensional, two dimensional or three dimensional. A metal selected from Group 10 can be deposited on the zeolite. In an embodiment, a process for synthesizing the zeolite comprises preparing a medium pore zeolite containing germanium in the framework of the zeolite and calcining the zeolite. In an embodiment, the catalyst can be used in a process for the conversion of hydrocarbons comprising contacting a hydrocarbon stream containing alkanes, olefins, or mixtures thereof having 2 to 12 carbon atoms per molecule with the catalyst and recovering the product. |
| US09481616B2 |
Conversion of biomass feedstocks into hydrocarbon liquid transportation fuels
Methods for converting a carbon-containing feedstock into a fluid transportation fuel are described. The methods may include converting the carbon-containing feedstock into a producer gas comprising H2, CO, CO2, and N2, and reacting the producer gas with a substrate catalyst to produce a combination of Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) products, the F-T products including the fluid transportation fuel. A portion of the F-T products may be catalytically cracked to produce additional amounts of the fluid transportation fuel. A portion of the F-T products may also be hydrogenated to produce additional amounts of the fluid transportation fuel. Apparatuses are also described for converting a carbon-containing feedstock into a fluid transportation fuel. The apparatuses may include a producer gas reactor, a Fischer-Tropsch reactor, a cracking reactor, and a hydrogenation reactor. |
| US09481611B2 |
System and method for producing fertilizer from organic waste
In one aspect, a system for the production of fertilizer from organic waste comprises a microbial digester configured to digest the organic waste, wherein the digestion of the organic waste produces a digestate having a liquids component and a solids component. A spray dryer module is provided for receiving the digestate and reducing moisture content in the digestate to produce a substantially dry fertilizer product. In further aspects, methods and fertilizer compositions are provided. |
| US09481608B2 |
Surface annealing of components for substrate processing chambers
A method of fabricating a processing chamber component comprises forming a processing chamber component having a structural body with surface regions having microcracks, and directing a laser beam onto the microcracks of the surface regions of the structural body for a sufficient time to heal and close off the microcracks by themselves. |
| US09481607B2 |
System, method and apparatus for manufacturing stable cement slurry for downhole injection
A method for manufacturing stable lightweight cement slurry in a continuous manner for downhole injection comprising the steps of manufacturing a foamed gas having desired density ranging from about 2.15 to about 2.35 lb/cubic ft. and utilizing foam stabilizing nonionic surfactant. And, an apparatus for carrying out the method. |
| US09481606B2 |
Dielectric composition, dielectric film, and electronic component
A dielectric composition containing a crystalline phase represented by a general formula of Bi12SiO20 and a crystalline phase represented by a general formula of Bi2SiO5 as the main components. The dielectric composition contains preferably 5 mass % to 99 mass % of the Bi2SiO5 crystalline phase, and more preferably 30 mass % to 99 mass %. |
| US09481605B2 |
Porous mullite bodies having improved thermal stability
A porous ceramic composition having improved thermal stability is comprised of ceramic grains bonded together by a grain boundary phase comprised of silica, rare earth element that is Eu, Gd, Nd or mixture thereof and oxygen and optionally yttrium, wherein the grain boundary phase has a amount of an alkali, an alkaline earth metal and a transition metal other than yttrium that is at most 2% by weight of the grain boundary phase. |
| US09481600B2 |
Optical glass, glass material for press molding, optical element, method for producing glass material for press molding, and method for producing optical element
Provided are an optical fluorophosphate glass having excellent optical characteristics and also excellent processability, a glass material for press molding and an optical element each including the glass, and methods for producing the glass material and the optical element. The optical glass includes P5+ as a cationic component and O2− and F− as anionic components, wherein the optical glass has a content of F− of 40 anionic % or less, an abrasion factor FA of 420 or higher, and a fragility index value B of 4500 μm−1/2 or lower. |
| US09481598B2 |
Laser cutting strengthened glass
Methods for cutting strengthened glass are disclosed. The methods can include using a laser. The strengthened glass can include chemically strengthened, heat strengthened, and heat tempered glass. Strengthened glass with edges showing indicia of a laser cutting process are also disclosed. The strengthened glass can include an electrochromic film. |
| US09481594B2 |
Refractory product having a high content of zirconia
The invention relates to a process for manufacturing a refractory product, comprising the following successive steps: a) mixing of raw materials so as to form a suitable feedstock so that the block obtained in step d) comprises more than 85% of ZrO2, b) melting of said feedstock until a molten material is obtained, c) optionally, casting said molten material, d) cooling of the molten material to solidification in the form of a block, e) optionally, heat treatment, process comprising a compression operation in which a compression pressure of greater than 0.2 MPa is applied to at least one portion of the outer surface of the block obtained in step d), the compression operation beginning at a temperature above the temperature at which, in said block, tetragonal zirconia is converted to monoclinic zirconia or “phase transformation temperature”, and ending at a temperature below said phase transformation temperature. |
| US09481593B2 |
Methods of using a submerged combustion melter to produce glass products
A method comprises flowing an oxidant and a fuel into a submerged combustion burner in a glass tank furnace, the glass tank furnace receiving a feed of glass forming material and producing molten glass, the burner and furnace comprising a melting system. The melting system has a variable system vibration and/or oscillation due to the nature of submerged combustion. One method includes predicting a value of at least one property, such as viscosity, of the molten glass using the variable system vibration and/or oscillation. |
| US09481590B2 |
Poly(zwitterion-alt-sulfur dioxide) copolymer
The poly(zwitterion-alt-sulfur dioxide) copolymer includes a structural unit having the structural formula: wherein “n” is the number of repeating units. The copolymer is made by cocyclopolymerizing 3-(N,N-diallyl,N-carboethoxymethylammonio)propanesulfonate with sulfur dioxide to obtain an intermediate polyzwitterion (PZ) copolymer, which is hydrolyzed to form the copolymer. The copolymer may be converted to a poly(electrolyte-zwitterion) by treatment with a base, such as sodium hydroxide. |
| US09481588B2 |
Treating liquids with electromagnetic fields
Dual-field electric and magnetic probes create and apply electromagnetic fields to liquids, such as water, to treat unwanted material in the liquid. |
| US09481585B2 |
Flow distributors for electrochemical separation
An electrochemical separation system may be modular and may include at least a first modular unit and a second modular unit. Each modular unit may include a cell stack and a frame. The frame may include a manifold system. A flow distribution system in the frame may enhance current efficiency. Spacers positioned between modular units may also enhance current efficiency of the system. |
| US09481582B2 |
Nanocrystal synthesis
A method of preparing monodisperse MX semiconductor nanocrystals can include contacting an M-containing precursor with an X donor to form a mixture, where the molar ratio between the M containing precursor and the X donor is large. Alternatively, if additional X donor is added during the reaction, a smaller ratio between the M containing precursor and the X donor can be used to prepare monodisperse MX semiconductor nanocrystals. |
| US09481581B2 |
Process for the production of a storage-stable barium sulphate having good dispersibility
The invention concerns a process for the production of a storage-stable barium sulphate, the barium sulphate produced thereby and the use thereof as an additive. |
| US09481580B2 |
Selective splitting of high order silanes
The invention relates to a process for preparing monomeric and/or dimeric halogen- and/or hydrogen-containing silicon compounds from oligomeric inorganic silanes having three or more directly covalently interconnected silicon atoms substituted by substituents selected from halogen, hydrogen and/or oxygen by reacting the oligomeric silane over a nitrogen-containing catalyst in the presence of hydrogen halide. |
| US09481579B2 |
Method for preparing a hydrosilane using hetero atom containing activated carbon
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a hydrosilane using heteroatom-containing activated carbon, more particularly to a method for economically preparing a high-purity hydrosilane by redistribution of a chlorosilane using a heteroatom-containing activated carbon catalyst. |
| US09481578B2 |
Polycrystalline silicon rod and process for production thereof
The invention provides a polycrystalline silicon rod having a total diameter of at least 150 mm, including a core A having a porosity of 0 to less than 0.01 around a thin rod, and at least two subsequent regions B and C which differ in porosity by a factor of 1.7 to 23, the outer region C being less porous than region B. |
| 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. |