| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09487309B2 |
Eccentricity control for geosynchronous satellites
Eccentricity control for a geosynchronous satellite includes: setting initial conditions, duration, and schedule for the eccentricity control; defining a plurality of parameters including control loci for centroid, semi-major axis, semi-minor axis, uncontrolled eccentricity radius, right ascension of ascending node, and inclination, wherein the plurality of parameters are defined such that when the eccentricity control is applied, a mean geodetic longitude of the geosynchronous satellite is maintained within a predefined distance from a station longitude. |
| US09487307B2 |
Microbridges for regional aircraft and methods of using same
An aircraft boarding apparatus has a passenger bridge that has a confinement structure coupled to the second passenger bridge. The confinement structure exerts a ground-anchoring effect on the second passenger bridge to offset the ultralight configuration of the passenger bridge. |
| US09487304B1 |
Advisory generating system, device, and method
A system, device, and method for generating at least one advisory presentable on one or more presentation units are disclosed, where the advisory may draw an operator's attention to future turns of the vehicle such as, but not limited to, an aircraft. An advisory generator (“AG”) may be configured to receive navigation data; receive feature data representative of one or more edges associated with the designated surface and location/coordinate information associated with one or more nodes of each edge; generate an advisory data set representative of one or more first distances in response to the determination; and provide the advisory data set to the presentation system. The designated surface could include a landing runway, a takeoff runway, and/or a current surface upon which the vehicle operates. One first distance may be a shortest distance (i.e., a distance to the closest intersection). |
| US09487303B2 |
Vehicle and system for supplying electrical power to a vehicle electrical load
One embodiment of the present disclosure is a unique machine. Another embodiment is a unique system for supplying electrical power to a machine, such as a vehicle, having an electrical load during operation. Other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for fluid driven actuation systems. |
| US09487301B2 |
High efficiency external airbag for crash attenuation
An external airbag for an aircraft includes an inflatable bladder having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion being generally adjacent to an exterior of the aircraft. A widthwise panel divides the inflatable bladder into a first cylindrical portion and a second cylindrical portion. The widthwise panel acts to restrict outward bulging of the inflatable bladder. An aperture in the widthwise panel may be used for allowing gas communication between the first cylindrical portion and a second cylindrical portion. |
| US09487300B2 |
Aircraft air conditioning system comprising a separate refrigeration cycle
An air-conditioning system for an aircraft includes a compressed air branch for conveying externally supplied and pressurized air, preferably bleed air. Furthermore, a cooling circuit for conveying preferably liquid refrigerant is provided and extends through a ram air duct. The system also includes a first heat exchanger for the heat transfer between the compressed air branch and the cooling circuit, a compressed air turbine arranged in the compressed air branch and a cooling circuit compressor arranged in the cooling circuit and mechanically coupled to the compressed air turbine. The system can have a modular design and be positioned at optimal locations in the aircraft due to the separation of the compressed air branch and the cooling circuit. In this way, the length of hot compressed air ducts can be shortened. |
| US09487299B2 |
Reconfigurable chilled air outlet for an aircraft gallery chiller
A reconfigurable vent system in fluid communication with an air chiller to deliver chill air to one or more galley food and beverage storage compartments in parallel is reconfigurable to operate in either of an air-through or an air-over orientation. The reconfigurable vent system comprises a vent in fluid communication with the air chiller via a duct and configured to provide the chill air to the one or more galley food and beverage storage compartments. The vent directs the chill air substantially toward the interior of the one or more galley food and beverage storage compartments in the air-through orientation at a first angle, and the vent directs the chill air substantially around the one or more galley food and beverage storage compartments in the air-over orientation at a second angle different from the first angle. |
| US09487298B2 |
Seat modification assembly and aircraft passenger seat comprising a seat modification assembly
A seat modification assembly for use with a passenger seat provided in a mass transport vehicle, especially an aircraft, comprises at least one seat modification element adapted to change the ergonomic seating profile of a passenger seat provided with the seat modification assembly. The at least one seat modification element comprises at least one mounting arrangement adapted for detachably mounting the seat modification element to a portion of the passenger seat. |
| US09487295B2 |
Vehicle media distribution system using optical transmitters
A wireless media distribution system for a passenger vehicle including a media server and a plurality of transmitters adapted to wirelessly transmit media signals representative of media delivered from the media server. Each transmitter is adapted to direct a media signal to a selected passenger location or a group of passenger locations. |
| US09487293B2 |
Pallet adapter
A pallet adapter, system and method for restraining air cargo during flight is disclosed. A pallet adapter shifts a shipping container in an inboard direction of an aircraft so that the container does not contact an interior structure of the aircraft. Rigid restraints restrain the container from moving in the vertical direction during flight. Corner fittings restrain the container from moving in the fore-and-aft direction and the side-to-side direction during flight. |
| US09487288B2 |
Apparatus and methods for extending hybrid laminar flow control
Systems and methods for secondary suctioning for an aerodynamic body are presented. A primary surface is configured along a leading edge of an aerodynamic body, and at least one secondary suction device comprising an elongated shape is configured at least a first distance from the primary surface. A non-suction surface is configured between the primary surface and the at least one secondary suction device. |
| US09487287B2 |
Wing leading edge venting
A wing including an airfoil section and having a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper surface and a lower surface, wherein a region within the airfoil section adjacent the leading edge is ventilated to establish a sub-static pressure in that region during flight. Vents in the upper surface of the wing provide the ventilation. |
| US09487283B2 |
Vessel propulsion system and vessel having the same
A vessel propulsion system includes two propulsion devices that are disposed on a left side and on a right side, respectively, with respect to a central line extending in a front-rear direction through a rotational center of a hull, an operating device that outputs a lateral movement command including a commanded direction, and a controller. The controller is configured and programmed to control the thrust and the steering angle of each of the two propulsion devices so that, when the operating device outputs a lateral movement command, a first propulsion device on a side existing in the commanded direction generates a backward thrust, whereas a second propulsion device generates a forward thrust, and so that an operating point of a resultant force of the thrusts of the two propulsion devices is positioned to deviate to the side in the commanded direction from the central line, and so that a direction of action of the resultant force follows the commanded direction. |
| US09487282B2 |
Underwater vehicles configured to perform vertical profiling and diagonal profiling, and corresponding methods of operation
An underwater vehicle may be configured to perform vertical profiling and diagonal profiling. The vehicle may include a body having an elongated shape with a central longitudinal axis orthogonal to a central lateral axis. The vehicle may include lateral control surfaces. The lateral control surfaces may be disposed outside of the body and mechanically coupled with the body at a position proximal to the central lateral axis. The lateral control surfaces may be configured to rotate about a control axis parallel to the central lateral axis in order to control an attitude of the vehicle during ascent or descent. A given one of the lateral control surfaces may have a portion extend from the mechanical coupling in a direction perpendicular to the control axis. |
| US09487272B2 |
Systems and methods for tensioning mooring lines at the seafloor
Systems and methods are disclosed for deploying one or more anchor piles on the seafloor using submersible line tensioning systems and techniques to achieve tensioning of mooring lines at the seafloor rather than at the conventional vessel deck level. Among other things, the disclosed systems and methods may be advantageously employed for tensioning mooring lines for Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs) when additional mooring legs must be added to the original complement of MODU legs, as well as and for tensioning mooring lines for vessels having turret mooring systems, each of which have limited space for surface tensioning equipment. |
| US09487271B2 |
Modular boat lift cover
The modular boat lift cover for a watercraft comprises a gable assembly and an adjustable support structure. All of the straight components are packaged into the main box frame channels for simplicity in packaging as well as quality control, ensuring no components are missing during packaging and shipping. The box frame channels have sufficient bulk to store the gable components during transport. The modular boat lift cover system has a robust, lightweight design that is compatible and adjustable for width, height and length as the boat owner modifies his existing boat or purchases a new boat, and that will protect the watercraft from the elements and will withstand even the severest of storms, undamaged as well as having the ability to be cantilevered. The modular boat lift cover is easy for the user to assemble and adjust on square lake style boat lifts, and the typically non-square tidal lifts. |
| US09487258B2 |
Straddled vehicle
A predefined length between first and second optical lens sections and of the first and second highly-directional light units is smaller than a length, which is half of a length between a left end of a lower portion of a left front-wheel support unit and a right end of a lower portion of a right front-wheel support unit in the left-right direction of a vehicle, and the predefined length is greater than half a smaller one of minimum widths of the optical lens sections of the first and the second highly-directional light units. A configuration is adopted in which light radiated through the optical lens section of the first highly-directional light unit partially overlaps light radiated through the optical lens section of the second highly-directional light unit and the remaining part does not overlap. |
| US09487254B2 |
Vehicle and method for the independent inspection of hard-to-reach inner spaces
A vehicle is provided for the independent inspection of hard-to-reach inner spaces which are bounded by ferromagnetic inner walls, especially in large cast parts, such as steam chests of a steam turbine. The vehicle includes at least two wheels which are rotatable around a common axis, are at a distance from each other in the axial direction, and can be driven independently of each other. With such a vehicle, the entire inner space can be inspected if the vehicle has adherence elements which hold the vehicle against the gravity force with the wheels on the respective inner wall. |
| US09487242B2 |
Vehicle body lower portion structure
A vehicle body lower portion structure that may prevent or suppress an occurrence of cracks in a support plate even if a load from an obstacle on a road surface is inputted at an end portion of the support plate. Support portions are configured at a stack frame. Lower faces of flange portions of a metal plate member are fixed to the support portions via adhesive layers. Extended end portions are formed extending from the support portions at a front end portion and a rear end portion of the stack frame. At each extended end portion of the stack frame, an inclined portion is formed. The inclined portion is inflected toward a vehicle body upper side from a projected portion of the support portion, and is inclined to a side away from the flange portion of the metal plate member. |
| US09487240B2 |
Vehicle body structure
A vehicle body structure is provided with: a floor for forming the floor surface of a vehicle body rear section; a rear panel raised from the rear end of the floor; left and right roof side rails extending in the front-rear direction on the upper left and right sides of the vehicle body; and left and right rear pillars extending downward toward the rear of the vehicle body from the left and right roof side rails. The lower end of the left rear pillar is joined to the outer left side section of an intersection section in the widthwise direction of the vehicle body, the intersection section being that at which the floor and the rear panel intersect. |
| US09487239B2 |
Vehicle structures and methods of assembling the same
Vehicle structures and methods of assembling the same are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a unibody structure of a vehicle includes an inboard A-pillar member, an outboard A-pillar member positioned outboard of the inboard A-pillar member and coupled to the inboard A-pillar member, and a reinforcement member positioned between the inboard A-pillar member and the outboard A-pillar member. The reinforcement member is coupled to the outboard A-pillar member and has a plurality of reduced thickness regions that are positioned in a vehicle vertical direction along the reinforcement member. |
| US09487237B1 |
Swiveling front suspension subframe
A system is provided that minimizes wheel intrusion into the occupant compartment during a small overlap collision. The system uses a front suspension subframe that is rigidly mounted to the front rails during normal vehicle operation, but which is designed to rotate during a small overlap collision, thereby allowing the attached front wheel assembly to swivel out and away from the vehicle. As a result, the wheel assembly directly involved in the collision is not driven into the passenger cabin. |
| US09487235B2 |
Vehicle control system with adaptive wheel angle correction
A control system of a vehicle includes an image sensor and a control having an image processor. The image sensor is disposed at the vehicle and has a field of view exterior and forward of the vehicle. The image processor is operable to process image data captured by the image sensor to determine a curvature of a road being traveled by the vehicle. Responsive at least in part to processing by the image processor of captured image data, the control is operable to determine tangents at locations along the determined curvature. Responsive to determination of the tangents, the control is operable generate an output to adjust the vehicle steering to guide the vehicle in a direction that generally corresponds to determined tangents at respective locations of the vehicle's path of travel along the curvature of the road. |
| US09487234B1 |
Control system for tilting motorcycle trike
A system used to control the orientation of a vehicle's suspension. The system includes a control system receiving input data from a plurality of sensors concerning the relative motion, speed, and orientation of the vehicle. The control system is configured to process the input data and actively control the orientation of the suspension system by selecting a suitable driver speed and tilt angle according to external conditions. |
| US09487231B2 |
Tie rod force sensing systems and methods
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a control system for controlling a steering system having a tie rod is provided. The control system includes a sensor coupled to the tie rod, the sensor configured to measure forces exerted on the tie rod and to generate a signal indicative of the measured forces, and a control module communicatively coupled to the sensor to receive the signal from the sensor. The control module is programmed to generate a motor assist command based on the generated signal to control the steering system. |
| US09487229B2 |
Steering column for a motor vehicle
A clamping device for an adjustable steering column for a motor vehicle comprises a clamping bolt which is rotatable about its longitudinal axis for the opening and closing of the clamping device by means of an actuation lever, through an opening of which the clamping bolt extends. In the region of the opening of the actuation lever there is situated a connecting section of the clamping bolt, over the axial extent of which connecting section the clamping bolt is connected to the actuation lever by way of a press fit. The outer wall of the clamping bolt has, in the connecting section of the clamping bolt, at least two pressing regions which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis and by way of which the actuation lever is pressed against the outer wall. |
| US09487219B2 |
Passenger transportation system and relative control method
A passenger transportation system having at least one rail extending along a path; at least one trolley movable along the rail; an actuating device having a linear electric motor, in turn having at least one slide fitted to the trolley, and a linear stator extending at least partly along the path, and having an elongated body, and a quantity of power windings embedded in the elongated body; and a quantity of sensors configured to control the position of the trolley, the sensors being fitted to the elongated body and so positioned as to minimize noise generated by the power windings on the sensors. |
| US09487218B2 |
Event sensitive learning interface
A vehicle control system is provided that is able to identify a particular driver from other potential drivers, monitor various vehicle functions, and determine if the identified driver repeatedly performs the same behavior upon activation of the car. When the control system determines that the identified driver repeats the same behavior each time the car is activated, the controller learns that behavior and associates it with the identified driver so that the learned behavior can be automatically performed, without driver interaction, when the driver is identified and the car is activated. |
| US09487211B2 |
Engine control system
Methods and systems are provided for adjusting the operation of an electric coolant pump in a hybrid vehicle system. During vehicle compression braking conditions, a motor propels the vehicle while the engine spins un-fueled to absorb torque. During such conditions, the coolant pump is operated based on the absorbed torque to maintain an engine temperature within a threshold. |
| US09487208B2 |
Travel support device, travel support method, and drive support system
A travel support device includes a mode planner that plans a travel mode that is to be one of an EV mode and an HV mode that uses at least an internal combustion engine as a drive source, for each of a plurality of sections, and an execution determiner that determines to execute a travel mode planning with the mode planner on condition that the total amount of consumption energy required for traveling the travel route is larger than an energy equivalent value that is obtained by adding a first allowance value to a remaining charge of the battery. In executing a planning based on the determination by the execution determiner, the mode planner executes the travel mode planning while assuming that energy from which energy corresponding to a second allowance value, which is smaller than the first allowance value is excluded is energy required for travelling the travel route. |
| US09487207B2 |
Torque compensation method and system
A system and method of compensating for torque converter slip in a motor vehicle include measuring rotational speeds of an engine crankshaft and mainshaft, as well as measuring operating temperatures of a fluid associated with the motor vehicle. Engine output torque is adjusted as required by controlling some combination of ignition timing, intake air flow, fuel injection, and accessory load. A system and method for deactivating a torque compensation system retrieves a number of times the torque compensation system has been activated over a set period. If the number exceeds a predetermined number of activations, the torque compensation system is deactivated. |
| US09487205B2 |
Controller of hybrid system
In a controller of a hybrid system including an engine, a motor/generator, an automatic clutch to which engine torque is input, a gear group configured to transmit input torque to a driving wheel side, and a differential device provided with plural rotary elements to which a torque input side of the gear group, a rotating shaft of the motor/generator, and an output side of the automatic clutch are individually connected respectively, wherein at the time a vehicle is started by causing the motor/generator to be in charge of a reaction force of the engine torque and transmitting the engine torque to the driving wheels via the differential device and the gear group, the automatic clutch is slip controlled in a semi-engaged state. |
| US09487202B2 |
Fluid-pressure brake device for vehicle
A fluid-pressure brake device for a vehicle includes a brake operation member, a master cylinder, wheel cylinders a fluid-pressure control actuator, a fluid-pressure control circuit, and an electric control unit. Moreover, in the fluid-pressure brake device for a vehicle, normally closed electromagnetic open/close valves are interposed on paths for connecting master system fluid-pressure circuits and a drive fluid chamber of the master cylinder with each other, the master system fluid-pressure circuits being configured to connect pressure chambers of the master cylinder and pressure chambers of the wheel cylinders—with each other. The fluid-pressure brake device for a vehicle is configured so that the electromagnetic open/close valves are opened when an action amount of the brake operation member is equal to or more than a set value. As a result, a size and a stroke of each of master pistons in the master cylinder can be reduced. |
| US09487201B2 |
Hydraulic pressure generator for a vehicle brake system, vehicle brake system having such a hydraulic pressure generator, and method for operating the hydraulic pressure generator
A hydraulic pressure generator for a vehicle brake system comprises a piston and a cylinder that movably accommodates the piston. The piston defines a first hydraulic chamber and a second hydraulic chamber in the cylinder on opposite piston sides, wherein each hydraulic chamber has a hydraulic inlet and a hydraulic outlet. An actuating unit is able to put the piston into a back-and-forth motion so that an intake stroke with regard to the first hydraulic chamber corresponds to a discharge stroke with regard to the second hydraulic chamber, and vice versa. |
| US09487200B2 |
Combined service brake cylinder and spring brake cylinder having a bayonet coupling
A combined service brake cylinder and spring brake cylinder for brake systems of vehicles is provided, wherein a bayonet coupling is configured between the spring brake cylinder and an intermediate wall. The bayonet coupling has locking segments protruding radially outward on an end-side edge of a wall of the spring brake cylinder and recess segments formed radially inward and recess segments corresponding thereto that are formed radially outward and formed on an annular chamber connected to the intermediate wall and locking segments protruding radially inward into the annular chamber. A bottom-side stop surface in the annular chamber forms an axial stop for the end-side wall edge of the spring brake cylinder. An annular seal is arranged between a circumferential surface of the edge of the wall of the spring brake cylinder pointing radially inward and the circumferential surface of the annular chamber pointing radially outward. A recess provided in the bottom of the annular chamber accommodates at least one end section of the annular seal, and end-face contact surfaces are provided on the locking segments of the spring brake cylinder for abutting on the bottom-side stop surface in the annular chamber. At least the and section of the annular seal is clamped between the recess in the bottom of the annular chamber and the edge of the wall of the spring brake cylinder. |
| US09487198B2 |
Pedal simulator for active brake system
Disclosed herein is a pedal simulator for an active brake system. The pedal simulator includes a simulator block provided therein with a bore, a first reaction unit including a first reaction piston slidably installed in the bore, a first damping member installed at the first reaction piston, and a first reaction spring compressed by the first reaction piston, and a second reaction unit including a second reaction piston provided in the bore to support the first reaction spring and slide in the bore, a damping housing connected to the simulator block to be spaced a certain distance apart from the second reaction piston, a second reaction spring installed between the second reaction piston and the damping housing to be compressed by the second reaction piston, and a second damping member installed in the damping housing to contact the second reaction piston. |
| US09487195B2 |
Collision avoidance assistance device and collision avoidance assistance method
A collision avoidance assistance device includes an assistance execution unit configured to execute collision avoidance assistance in a case where it is determined that a vehicle will collide with an object, in which, when it is not determined whether the vehicle will collide with the object or not during execution of the automatic braking based on the collision avoidance assistance, the assistance execution unit is configured to inhibit cancellation of the automatic braking in a case where the object is present in front of the vehicle. |
| US09487192B2 |
Parking brake device
A parking brake device comprises: a brake pedal which is capable of pivoting from an initial position in relation to a dash panel in a determined angle range; a pair of base plates which are fixed to the dash panel, and which sandwich and pivotally support the brake pedal; a ratchet plate in which ratchet teeth are continuously formed, and which pivots together with the brake pedal; a support pin which couples the pair of base plates; and a ratchet pawl which is supported by the support pin in a manner so as to be capable of oscillation, and which meshes with the ratchet plate. The support pin and the ratchet pawl are disposed between attachment points at the dash panel side of the base plates and a center pin of the brake pedal. |
| US09487188B2 |
Tool for removing ice and moisture from a surface
A tool for removing ice and residual moisture from a surface has a lower frame element having a forward facing edge with multiple teeth arrayed along a curvature, the attachment including a substantially straight scraper bar disposed laterally across the rear edge of the lower frame element, the teeth and the scraper bar defining a first plane, a handle guard including a handle grip joined to the lower frame element at a juncture above the first plane, the handle grip and the juncture defining a second plane placing the handle grip above the scraper bar, and a flexible squeegee panel mounted to the handle guard along a front peripheral edge, the panel disposed above the multi-tooth array. |
| US09487187B2 |
Wiper blade assembly for the windows of a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a wiper blade assembly for the windows of a motor vehicle, comprising a longitudinal support (10) intended to receive a pressure application vertebra (20) and a wiper blade (30) and a wiper accessory (40) carrying a device (42a, 42b) for distributing and projecting a washer liquid wherein the accessory is intended to be assembled with the longitudinal support (10).According to the invention, the longitudinal support (10) comprises means for fixing said accessory (40) on said support. |
| US09487181B2 |
Dual chambered passenger airbag
An airbag includes at least one panel defining an interior of the airbag, and a divider positioned in the interior so as to divide the interior into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. A valve mechanism is operatively coupled to the divider for restricting a flow of gases from the lower chamber into the upper chamber. The valve mechanism is structured such that an actuation response time of the valve in attenuating or impeding gas flow from the lower chamber into the upper chamber is proportional to the pressure differential between the upper and lower chambers. |
| US09487180B2 |
Vehicular curtain air-bag device, and mounting structure for same
A vehicular curtain airbag apparatus and an attachment structure configured not to interfere with a driver seat airbag and being able to appropriately provide occupant protection performance either in normal and small overlap collision modes, and the curtain airbag having a simple configuration. The apparatus includes a main chamber having a front end to be deployed and inflated at a position near a front pillar, and an additional chamber further toward a vehicle front side and to be deployed and inflated, and separated from the main chamber by a partition portion between the front pillar and an inflation area of a driver seat airbag. The additional chamber is folded back near the partition portion toward the vehicle interior and a rear of the vehicle to overlap the main chamber, and parts of a resultant overlapping portion corresponding to upper portions of the main and additional chambers or vicinities of the parts are coupled together to form a chamber coupling portion. |
| US09487179B2 |
Curtain airbag and curtain airbag device
A curtain airbag includes a curtain airbag main body and a tie panel. The tie panel is arranged on an opposite-interior surface of the curtain airbag main body and is connected to the curtain airbag main body at upper and lower portions of the tie panel. The curtain airbag main body includes first and second panels. At an overlapping area of the curtain main body and the tie panel, the first and second panels are coupled with each other by linear coupling portions which are radially extend toward four directions so as to form four inflation portions. A communication portion communicates two of the four inflation portions with each other. When the curtain airbag main body is inflated, a space is formed between the communication portion and the tie panel. |
| US09487177B2 |
Airbag assemblies for vehicles with generous leg room
Protection systems for vehicle occupants, such as airbag assemblies, can be deployed from within a vehicle. Such airbag assemblies can include a frontal airbag cushion and a knee restraint to absorb an occupant's impact energy during a collision event. Such protection systems can be particularly useful in vehicles that provide generous leg room to an occupant. |
| US09487176B2 |
Airbag and airbag module
An airbag (2) of an airbag module for a vehicle comprising an airbag shell (6) including an inserting orifice (8) for an inflator (4) has at least one reinforcing layer (14) which completely covers the inserting orifice (8). |
| US09487175B2 |
Curtain airbag device
A curtain airbag device having a cushion portion connected to a bracket. The airbag includes a cushion portion that is accommodated in a long and narrow form, a bracket attached to a wall of a vehicle cabin, and a wrapping member that is wrapped around the cushion portion and the bracket. The bracket includes a base portion having an insertion hole, a vehicle fixing portion extending upward from the base portion, and protruding portions formed on both sides at a lower height than the vehicle fixing portion. The wrapping member has a root portion connected to the cushion portion and has hooking holes formed in a distal end thereof. The wrapping member is inserted into the insertion hole from the vehicle interior, folded back downward, and wrapped around the cushion portion toward the interior, and the hooking holes are hooked on the protruding portions. |
| US09487174B2 |
Personal restraint system with pull-cord releasable safety net
Personal restraint systems having releasable safety nets are disclosed herein. A personal restraint system configured in accordance with one embodiment of the present technology includes a safety net configured to extend across a portion of an opening in a vehicle adjacent to an operator seating portion. The restraint system can further include a latch device configured to releasably couple the safety net to an anchor point adjacent to the opening. In some embodiments, a pull cord is operably coupled to the latch device and slidably coupled to the safety net. The pull cord is configured to be pulled by an operator to release the latch device from the anchor point and allow the safety net to fall free of the opening. |
| US09487170B2 |
Truck bumper shell and method of retrofit installation
A retrofitably-attachable pre-formed shell covers exposed steel areas of existing stamped chrome or painted truck bumpers, providing a unique re-useable decorative/protective plastic shell cover, the edges of which are tucked under the existing trim pieces of the bumper as a main attachment mechanism. The formed shells can be used to cover existing minor damage on the bumper. Light-passing images can be incorporated on the bumper shells, and backlit without changes to the bumper or deviation from the original surface profile of the bumper. |
| US09487168B2 |
Automobile bumper beam
An automobile bumper beam to be disposed in a vehicle width direction includes: a small sectional area portion at a center in the vehicle width direction; paired sectional area changing portions continuous to outsides in the vehicle width direction of the small sectional area portion; and paired large sectional area portions continuous to outsides in the vehicle width direction of the sectional area changing portions. The small sectional area portion projects most outward in a front-rear direction at paired impact load input portions. Thus, impact load in minor collision is inputted as two-point concentrated load to the paired input portions of a bumper beam body, reducing a peak value of bending moment acting on the body, and the sectional area changing portions and large sectional area portions bear the moment, thereby enhancing strength of the body, reducing its thickness and weight, and achieving an excellent collision energy absorbing effect. |
| US09487165B2 |
Programmable dynamic voltage control apparatus
The present invention relates to a programmable dynamic voltage control apparatus, and more particularly, to a programmable dynamic voltage control apparatus which is capable of dynamically controlling voltage conversion of an output unit using data set in programmable memories, when various pieces of information sensed by a variety of sensors mounted in a vehicle are converted into electrical signals and then transmitted. |
| US09487164B2 |
Current generating unit
A current generating unit configured to extend the range of an electric vehicle, including an internal combustion engine formed by a rotary-piston engine, and at least one electric machine cofigured to be excited by permanent magnets and arranged coaxially to the internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine and the electric machine are arranged as a unit and include a common housing and a common cooling system, with at least one cooling channel arrangement disposed on the electric side and configured to cool an electric component in the cooling circuit of the cooling system upstream of at least one cooling channel arrangement of the internal combustion engine. |
| US09487162B2 |
Pillar garnish
A pillar garnish for covering a pillar of a vehicle includes a first garnish component and a second garnish component. The first garnish component is made of thermoplastic elastomer olefin and includes a sidewall opposite an airbag disposed between the pillar and the pillar garnish. The second garnish component is made of material having rigidity higher than the first garnish component and disposed so as to overlap the first garnish component. The second garnish component includes a garnish body having a plate-like shape and a clip mount for holding a tether clip to be fixed to the pillar. The clip mount protrudes from a surface of the garnish body on a pillar side. |
| US09487161B2 |
Accessory system for a vehicle
An accessory system for a vehicle includes a bracket configured for adhesive attachment at an in-cabin surface of the vehicle windshield. The bracket includes an attaching portion having an aperture therethrough and includes a pair of attaching arms extending from the attaching portion. An interior rearview mirror assembly has a mounting base that is attached at the attaching portion of the bracket with the bracket adhesively attached at the windshield. With the mounting base attached at the attaching portion, a rain sensor is disposed at the in-cabin surface of the windshield and the aperture of the attaching portion circumscribes the rain sensor. With the bracket adhesively attached at the windshield, a forward camera module is attached at the attaching arms of the bracket and generally at the in-cabin surface of the windshield so that an imager of the forward camera module has a field of view through the windshield. |
| US09487154B2 |
Modular mounting system
A modular mounting system is provided to store equipment in a variety of configurations. The system includes a mounting base configured to be rigidly mounted to a surface and a base member removably attached to the mounting base. The system further includes a coupling mechanism that removably holds the base member relative to the mounting base. |
| US09487153B2 |
Equipment support system for vessels
An exemplary equipment support system includes a pair of U-shaped tubular arms spaced apart from one another and in a generally equivalent horizontal position. The apparatus comprises an elongated part with an adjustable mechanism configured to fit inside a fishing rod holder. At least two lateral supports opposing parallel members with an adjustable mechanism and extendable middle sections are combined to support the sporting equipment thereon. |
| US09487151B2 |
Glove box owner's manual/electronic device storage
A motor vehicle storage compartment includes a housing defining an interior storage space and a top having a cutout defining a rear lip for supporting at least a portion of an item. A pivoting front support is provided, configured to bias between an open position and a closed position. A retainer is provided to keep the front support in the closed position. When biased to the closed position, the front support defines a lip for supporting an opposed portion of the item. When biased the front support the open position, the item falls into the storage compartment interior storage space for retrieval. |
| US09487150B2 |
Display device holder apparatus for sun visor
A display device holder apparatus for a sun visor may include a slide bracket slidably coupled to the sun visor in order to enable a state in which it may be received in the sun visor and a state in which it may be drawn forwardly from the sun visor, and a plurality of holders provided in the slide bracket, so as to be elastically rotatable with respect to the slide bracket and fixing a display device so that the display device may be held in the slide bracket. |
| US09487148B2 |
Cargo truck multi-stage extendable personnel platform with foldable guardrail
A personnel platform for installation on a cargo truck comprises a mounting bracket securely fastened to a framing structure of the cargo truck beneath a personnel door, a platform deck mounted to a sliding mechanism securely fastened to the mounting bracket, wherein the platform deck is operable to be slidably configured in a stowed position beneath the cargo truck and a deployed position extending substantially horizontally beyond the cargo truck, and a latching mechanism operable to lock the platform deck in one of the stowed position and the deployed position. The platform further includes a guardrail accessory that may be stowed under the platform deck as well as a multi-step stair accessory that may be stowed under the platform deck. |
| US09487146B1 |
Trailer hitch step apparatus
A trailer hitch step apparatus including a hollow square-shaped hitch sleeve, with a perimeter of a channel of the hitch sleeve substantially conforming to a perimeter of a trailer hitch receiver. A base mounting support is attached to a bottom side of the hitch sleeve. Each of a right step member and a left step member of a pair of step members is attached to a right area and a left area, respectively, of the base mounting support. Each of a right side mounting support and a left side mounting support of a pair of triangular side mounting supports is disposed on a side edge of the right step member and the left step member, respectively. The channel of the hitch sleeve is selectively slidably disposable around the trailer hitch receiver, and a tightening bolt secures the channel of the hitch sleeve around the trailer hitch receiver. |
| US09487145B2 |
Handrail locking mechanism
A locking mechanism associated with a handrail is provided. A pair of slots is provided on opposite side surfaces of the housing. Each of the side surfaces is adjacent to the side open end. A bracket is affixed to any one of the side surface of the housing. A locking member is pivotally coupled to the bracket. The first arm of the locking member is configured to selectively engage with the pair of slots to retain the handrail in the upright position. On exerting a force in an upward direction on a second arm of the locking member the first arm is selectively released from the pair of slots to allow the handrail to move from an upright position to a collapsed position. |
| US09487135B2 |
Dome light assembly
A dome light assembly for a vehicle is provided herein. The dome light assembly includes a headliner having a trough and a light-producing assembly arranged as a strip configured to be received in the trough. The light-producing assembly includes a plurality of light sources and a photoluminescent structure configured to luminesce in response to excitation by the plurality of light sources. |
| US09487133B2 |
Turn lamp for door mirror
A turn lamp to be mounted on a door mirror of a vehicle, the turn lamp includes a housing; a light source; and a substrate having a feeder circuit for the light source, wherein: the substrate is placed in the housing such that a plane direction of the substrate faces a horizontal direction when the door mirror is mounted to a vehicle body, and the light source is placed on the substrate such that an irradiation direction of the light source is parallel to the plane direction of the substrate. |
| US09487128B2 |
Illuminating running board
A running board of a vehicle is provided herein. The running board includes a housing and a light-producing assembly disposed inside the housing. The light-producing assembly includes a plurality of light sources and a photoluminescent structure configured to luminesce in response to excitation by light emitted from the plurality of light sources, wherein luminescent light escapes the housing via a first light permeable portion and a second light permeable portion. |
| US09487124B2 |
Locomotive headlight assembly
A light apparatus for use with a power source and a control switch, the control switch including an input node, an output node and at least first and second independently selectable current paths between the input and output nodes, the first selectable current path having a resistance value that is greater than the second current path, controlling light intensity as a function of which of the current path is selected, at least one light source, a controller linked to the control switch and determining the selected path and generating a control signal and a light driver linked between the output node and the light source, the driver receiving the control signal and adjusting the current applied to the light source as a function of the control signal. |
| US09487121B2 |
System for securing containers with compressive and torsional actuating unit
A system for locking and unlocking containers to transport modes and other containers comprises an actuating unit in an upper corner fitting of a container, a mechanical connecting device connected to the actuating unit, and guides to route the connecting device from the actuating unit to a rotatable locking leg housed in a lower corner fitting of the container. The twistlock of a lifting spreader engages the upper corner fitting of a container, urging the actuating unit. The connecting device is in turn urged, thereby causing the locking leg to rotate. |
| US09487119B1 |
Easy load trailer
A trailer for transporting relatively heavy and/or bulky items. Preferably, a single person is able to load and operate the trailer. The trailer has a frame, at least one wheel coupled to the frame, a platform pivotably coupled to the frame, and a link coupled to the frame and the platform. The platform moves between loading and transport positions. The platform has first and second sections that are generally perpendicular to each other. The first section is adjacent a ground surface when the platform is in the loading position. The platform pivots no more than approximately 60 degrees between the loading and transport positions. The link is operable to move the platform between the loading and transport positions. The link prevents the platform from rotating more than approximately 60 degrees between the loading and transport positions. |
| US09487117B2 |
Method for producing a cushion element and method and tool for the production thereto
A method for producing a cushion element for a vehicle seat, in which a component suitable for forming a three-dimensional separation zone is inserted in a tool, subsequently at least one first foamable mass is introduced into a first space of the tool. On foaming the mass, the component forms a three-dimensional separating element between a first foamed cushion region and a further space within the tool. The component is pressed against a counter-support in the tool during the forming to give a three-dimensional separating element. A suitable tool comprises an upper tool, a lower tool and a counter support for contacting a component taking on a three-dimensional shape. By introducing the three-dimensional mouldable shape into the tool and the subsequent forming thereof to give a three-dimensional separating element, complex formed regions with differing properties, in particular, differing degrees of hardness can be economically generated in a foamed cushion element. |
| US09487115B2 |
Headrest having a recess on a bottom thereof and facing the head of a headrest guide
A headrest is to be mounted to the top of a seat back with a headrest pillar and a headrest guide height-adjustably supporting the headrest pillar and being attached to the seat back such that the head of the headrest guide is exposed from the top of the seat back. The headrest includes a recess on a bottom of the headrest, the recess facing the head of the headrest guide. The surface of the recess is set to be separate from the head of the headrest guide. |
| US09487111B2 |
Spinning infant car seat
An infant car seat with a base having a swivel platform which is easily rotatable in any direction, comprising a base having a swivel platform which is easily rotatable in any direction, and an infant car seat mounted onto the platform. |
| US09487110B2 |
Car seat
Embodiments of a car seat include an outer protective shell, an inner seat, a suspension system connecting and permitting relative movement between the inner seat and the outer protective shell for shock isolation, and a harness adapted to hold an occupant to the inner seat and not attached to the outer protective shell. In an accident, regardless of the direction in which the seat is facing and regardless of whether the result is a sudden acceleration and/or deceleration, the inner seat will move inside the frame, and the suspension system will absorb some, much, or all of the energy. Energy not absorbed by the suspension system may be absorbed by the inner seat itself and/or an anchor system used to connect the car seat to a vehicle. The frame of the seat will remain structurally intact in almost all circumstances thereby protecting the occupant of the car seat. |
| US09487105B2 |
Power system for electric vehicle and control method thereof
Disclosed are a power system for an electric vehicle and a control method of a power system for an electric vehicle. The power system may include a first motor and a second motor configured as a power source, first and second reduction gears connected to the first and second motors and having different deceleration ratios, a driving shaft transmitting outputs of the first and second reduction gears, and a motor controller configured to determine a first driving point where the first motor responds according to a demand torque of a driver and a driving condition of the vehicle and a second driving point where the second motor responds according to the demand torque of the driver and the driving condition of the vehicle, and control driving by using at least one of an output torque of the first motor and/or an output torque of the second motor according to the determined driving point. |
| US09487104B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling an electrically-powered torque machine of a powertrain system
A method for controlling an electrically-powered torque machine of a powertrain system includes determining a predicted torque command to control the torque machine. A flux command is determined responsive to the predicted torque command. The flux command is a flux level providing a fast torque reserve that is responsive to the predicted torque command. The fast torque reserve is a prescribed minimum rate of change in torque output from the torque machine responsive to the predicted torque command. An inverter controller controls flux of the torque machine responsive to the flux command. |
| US09487103B2 |
Auxiliary battery management system and method
A battery management method includes the following steps: (a) reading, via a battery management processor, a non-volatile memory to determine if the non-volatile memory contains data indicative of a brownout in the auxiliary battery module; (b) receiving, via the battery management processor, at least one input signal from at least one brownout detector of at least one smart device having a device processor in order to determine a brownout condition in at least one smart device; (c) determining, via the battery management processor, that a triggering event has occurred if the non-volatile memory contains data indicative of the brownout in the auxiliary battery module or the at least one smart device exhibits a brownout condition; and (d) commanding, via the battery management processor, the main battery module to electrically charge the auxiliary battery module of the hybrid vehicle if the triggering event has occurred. |
| US09487095B2 |
Charging and discharging device
Provided is a charging and discharging device that does not need to use a high voltage capacitor even if a shielding switch is provided in an assembled battery for the sake of convenience of maintenance, and the like. The charging and discharging device includes: capacitors for connecting control terminals of adjacent circuit blocks, the shielding switch interposed between the adjacent battery modules, and a transformer interposed between the control terminals corresponding to the adjacent battery modules. |
| US09487091B2 |
Method of adjusting power absorbed by at least one electrically powered vehicle
A method of adjusting the power absorbed by at least one vehicle powered by at least one electrical energy storage unit and one electrical network on the ground providing the vehicle with at least one inrush current necessary for starting up the vehicle, includes adjusting the inrush current, before and at least during the starting-up of the vehicle, to a constant mean value and keeping variations of the inrush current around the mean value to a minimum by controlling at least one variable supply of compensating energy from the energy storage unit of the vehicle. A computer for implementing the method is also provided. |
| US09487087B2 |
Energy-optimized acceleration control for motor vehicles
An energy-optimized acceleration control is provided for a motor vehicle having an internal-combustion engine and/or an electric drive motor, a transmission unit and an accelerator element to be operated by the driver for accelerating the motor vehicle. In the course of the restoring force, when the accelerator element is operated, an inflection point with an increased restoring force is provided. The acceleration control is set up for operating the motor vehicle in two different operating modes, wherein during operation of the accelerator element leading to a reaching of the inflection point, the acceleration control changes into an energy-optimized acceleration mode. |
| US09487085B2 |
Transaxle and working vehicle equipped with the transaxle
A transaxle is adaptable to a vehicle equipped with a longitudinal engine including an engine output shaft to be oriented in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle. The transaxle comprises a transmission output shaft to be oriented in a lateral direction of the vehicle so as to be drivingly connected to a drive wheel of the vehicle, a hydrostatic transmission and a mechanical transmission for transmitting power from the engine output shaft to the transmission output shaft, and first and second power take-off shafts for taking off power from the mechanical transmission. The engine is joined to the transaxle so that the engine, the hydrostatic transmission and the mechanical transmission are assembled together. The first and second power take-off shafts are distributed rightward and leftward from the engine. |
| US09487082B2 |
Aircraft fuel tank system
An aircraft fuel tank system is disclosed in which a vent tank is provided with an ullage vent for use in combination with an eternal flamer barrier means during a refuelling process. |
| US09487080B2 |
Draining system for fuel tank
A draining system for draining fuel from a fuel tank is disclosed. The fuel tank includes a holding chamber for holding fuel and a fill port assembly for adding fuel to the holding chamber. The fill port assembly includes a fill port passageway in fluid communication with the holding chamber and a valve system for regulating a flow of fuel through the fill port passageway. The draining system includes a coupling member having a drainage passageway. The coupling member is detachably connected with the fill port assembly. An actuating member selectively actuates the valve system to permit fuel to flow from the fill port passageway into the drainage passageway. An outlet conduit is in fluid communication with the drainage passageway such that fuel can flow from the drainage passageway into the outlet conduit. A flow regulating member is configured to regulate flow of fuel through the outlet conduit. |
| US09487078B2 |
Vehicle body cover and work vehicle
A vehicle body cover of a work vehicle is provided with an outside ventilation cover part and an inside ventilation cover part. The outside ventilation cover part has outside ventilation holes that communicate with an external space. The outside ventilation cover part is disposed in an inclined manner with respect to the vertical direction. The inside ventilation cover part is disposed to face the outside ventilation holes on the inside of the outside ventilation cover part. The inside ventilation cover part has a rain gutter part and a ventilation part. The rain gutter part is configured to receive water entering from the outside ventilation holes. The ventilation part has inside ventilation holes that communicate with a space on the inside of the inside ventilation cover part. The ventilation part is disposed above the rain gutter part. |
| US09487075B2 |
Work vehicle with traction gearbox cooling
A work vehicle equipped with a main engine, a main engine gearbox and a main engine cooling circuit for circulating an engine coolant, the cooling circuit comprising at least one sub-portion comprising a radiator for heating the driver's cabin of the work vehicle. A heat exchanger is configured for heat exchange between said engine coolant and a lubricant flowing in a circuit into and out of a gearbox other than the engine gearbox. This latter gearbox can be the traction gearbox driven by a hydrostatic motor that is in turn powered by main-engine driven pump. The traction gearbox oil is then cooled by the engine coolant when the temperature difference between the engine coolant and the traction gearbox oil is higher than when the work vehicle is in active operation in the field. |
| US09487071B1 |
Foldable tonneau cover for pick-up truck and clamp storage mechanism thereof
A foldable tonneau cover for a pick-up truck is disclosed and has at least one clamp storage mechanism. Each of the clamp storage mechanism is provided with a cushion member mounted on a lower rigid cover of a frame section and over a distal end of a track rail. The cushion member has a storage notch for at least partially receiving a handle of a clamp assembly when the clamp assembly is shifted into a stored position. In the stored position, the handle is inclined in relation to the lower rigid cover, and the handle is located outside the track of the track rail. Thus, the convenience to manually operate the handle can be enhanced, the vibration during the pick-up truck is moving can be absorbed, the handle can be tightly positioned in the storage notch, and the entire strength of the lower rigid cover can be ensured. |
| US09487070B2 |
Truck folding back cover
System for covering a truck bed includes side rails attachable to bed rails of the truck. The side rails include mounting positions. The system includes clamps to secure the side rails to the bed rails and a cover positioned above the side rails. The cover includes a first panel and a second panel positioned rearward of the first panel. The cover includes cover rails coupled near ends of the first panel and near ends of the second panel. The cover includes hinges positioned between the cover rails of the first panel and the second panel to pivotably couple the first panel with the second panel. The cover includes mounting features coupled with the cover rails of the first panel and mounting features coupled with the mounting positions. Rods are coupled with the cover rail mounting features and the mounting position mounting features to maintain the cover in a folded position. |
| US09487069B2 |
Liftgate die cast inner panel sub-assembly
A vehicle liftgate includes a die-cast inner panel and an outer header panel. The inner panel includes a header member, a pair of supports, a lower section, and at least one stiffener. The header member has a top edge and a bottom edge. The supports couple the header to the lower section. The supports and the bottom edge of the header member partially define a window aperture. The stiffener is coupled to the header member between the top and bottom edges and between opposite ends of the header member. The outer header panel is mounted to the header member to define a header cavity between the header member and the outer header panel. The stiffener protrudes from the header member into the header cavity and is fixed to the outer header panel. |
| US09487064B2 |
Air nozzle
This invention relates to an air nozzle, comprising a flange intended for the attachment to a vehicle body opening, and comprising at least one air guiding element via which air flowing through the air nozzle can be deflected. Furthermore, at least two, in particular three, pivot stubs (18,20,22) are mounted to the flange (16) whose pivot axis (61) extends substantially parallel to the axis of the air flow through the air nozzle (10) before reaching the air guiding elements, and the pivot stubs (18, 20, 22) are movable in a direction parallel to their pivot axis (61). |
| US09487062B2 |
Oil filled heater core
A heater system for an electric vehicle that is void of engine coolant. The heater system can include an air duct having an opening into a passenger compartment of the vehicle and a heater unit attached to the air duct. The heater unit can have a self-contained quantity of oil within an oil reservoir and an oil channel in fluid communication with the oil reservoir. The oil channel can be located between a front wall and a back wall of the heater unit and the unit can also have an electric heating element at least partially within the oil reservoir. The electric heater unit can be operable to heat oil in the oil reservoir and thereby result in the oil flowing through the oil channel and heating the front wall and the back wall of the unit. |
| US09487061B2 |
Method for preventing water intrusion in vehicle systems
A method for controlling a vehicle system includes receiving, at a control system, a request to open an ambient air inlet valve of a vehicle component, wherein the ambient air inlet valve is operable to move from a closed position to an open position in response to an open signal that is transmitted to the ambient air inlet valve from the control system. The method also includes determining whether a towing condition is present, determining whether at least one submergence risk criterion is present, and transmitting the open signal to the ambient air inlet valve, in response to the request to open the ambient air inlet valve, if the towing condition is not present or the at least one submergence risk criterion is not present. |
| US09487059B2 |
Vehicle air conditioner
An air conditioner ECU can set an external air introducing mode and an internal/external air dual mode. Here, the internal/external air dual mode is set by the air conditioner ECU in cases in which the air conditioner ECU judges that there is a warm-up state that is after a start of a heating operation and in which a blow-out temperature of air conditioned wind is in the process of rising, and in cases in which humidity detected by a humidity sensor exceeds a reference humidity that is set in advance. |
| US09487056B1 |
Motor vehicle tire traction device for ice and snow
A motor vehicle tire traction device having a traction-blade plate that can be selectively mounted indefinitely to a motor vehicle tire with the plate providing sleeves for a plurality of traction blades where one or more of the blades can be quickly inserted into a traction blade sleeve providing traction to said tire wherethen the traction blade(s) can be stored until needed again. |
| US09487053B2 |
Pneumatic vehicle tire with specified circumferential side wall groove
A vehicle tire has a pattern visible in the side wall located in a groove thereof extending across the entire circumference of the tire and oriented in a circumferential direction (U). The groove is formed of first groove segments and second groove segments, which in the circumferential direction are arranged in alternating sequence one behind the other. Radially outwardly, the groove segments are each defined by a radially outward defining flank and radially inwardly, are defined by a radially inward defining flank defining the groove radially inward. The first groove segments are arranged radially outside the second groove segments and the transition between a first groove segment and the adjacent second groove segment is configured as a radial offset of the groove by the amount of displacement (a). |
| US09487049B2 |
Rubber composition for magnesium hydroxide wafer-reinforced tire
The invention relates to a rubber composition having improved vulcanization kinetics, which can be used in particular for manufacturing tires or semi-finished products for tires, based on at least one diene elastomer, a reinforcing filler and a coupling agent providing the bond between filler and elastomer, characterized in that said reinforcing filler comprises synthetic magnesium hydroxide Mg(OH)2 wafers, covered with silica. The invention also relates to the use of such a composition for manufacturing rubber articles, in particular tires or semi-finished products made of rubber intended for these tires, especially treads. The invention also relates, per se, to this synthetic magnesium hydroxide in the form of silica-covered wafers, and also to its use as a reinforcing filler, especially in a diene elastomer matrix. |
| US09487044B2 |
Method and device for producing a board-shaped product having a surface comprising a decoration
A method and device for producing a board-shaped product having a surface comprising a decoration, having at least one printing roller unit for printing a decoration onto a main body formed from a carrier board, wherein at least one digital print head for printing at least one decoration element onto one or more sub-regions of the main body such that the decoration printed by means of the at least one printing roller unit remains visible, at least in part, or surrounds the decoration element if the at least one decoration element is printed onto the main body by means of the at least one digital print head before the decoration. |
| US09487043B2 |
Platemaking method, platemaking device, printing press, and printing plate
There is provided a platemaking method of forming relief based on relief pattern data in a printing plate to be pressed on a printing matter, and the platemaking method includes the steps of: estimating distribution of printing pressure of the printing plate pressed on the printing matter on the basis of image data; calculating an amount of correction of engraving shape data on the basis of the distribution of printing pressure; correcting the engraving shape data on the basis of the amount of correction; and acquiring exposure amount data from the engraving shape data corrected. By exposure (engraving) processing based on the exposure amount data that can be acquired in this way, it is possible to form relief in consideration of deformation of a printing plate in accordance with the distribution of printing pressure in the printing plate to favorably print and reproduce an image on a printing medium. |
| US09487041B1 |
Decolorizing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and decolorizing method
A decolorizing apparatus of an exemplary embodiment includes a feeding section, a decolorizing section, and a control section. The feeding section can supply a magnetic medium having a ferromagnet in at least a part thereof. The decolorizing section decolorizes a decolorable image formed on the magnetic medium by heating the magnetic medium. The control section controls the decolorizing section to be set to a temperature which is equal to or higher than a temperature at which the image can be decolorized and is lower than a Curie temperature of the ferromagnet of the magnetic medium during decolorizing of the magnetic medium. |
| US09487039B2 |
Printer
Certain examples of printers and methods of printing may involve determining colorant amounts of image regions within a print image. |
| US09487035B2 |
Printing apparatus, control method, and non-transitory storage medium
A printing apparatus includes a conveying unit, a printing unit, a cutting unit, and a control unit. In a case in which a marginless image is to be printed, if the margin portion is added on a trailing edge side of an image before the marginless image, the control unit performs control of printing the marginless image next to the margin portion. If the margin portion is not added on the trailing edge side of the image before the marginless image, the control unit performs control of providing a margin portion of more than the predetermined length before the marginless image. |
| US09487033B2 |
Recording device with ejection unit for ejecting recording medium
The recording device includes a recording unit, a conveying unit, an ejection unit, and a controller. The controller is configured to urge a driven roller of the ejection unit toward a drive roller of the ejection unit by a first load to eject a recording medium while the recording is performed on the recording medium of which a rear end has left the conveying unit, determine whether or not the recording is finished while the driven roller is urged toward the drive roller by the first load, switch the first load to a second load, which is less than the first load, to eject the recording medium on which the recording is finished in response to determining that the recording is finished, and urge the driven roller toward the drive roller by the second load while ejecting the recording medium on which the recording is finished. |
| US09487031B2 |
Recording device and method for suppressing contact between pressing member and recording unit
A recording device includes a medium support unit for supporting a recording target medium, a recording unit capable of carrying out recording on the recording target medium, a moving unit configured to relatively reciprocate the recording target medium and the recording unit, a pressing member that is provided at a position capable of opposing the recording unit and that is capable of pressing the recording target medium supported by the medium support unit, an information acquisition unit capable of acquiring information related to the pressing member, and a controller configured to output the information acquired by the information acquisition unit. |
| US09487030B2 |
Medium holding member and recording apparatus
A medium holding member that is attached to a medium supporting portion includes a fitting portion that is fit into the medium supporting portion and that is located at each of at least one portion in an upstream side edge portion of the medium holding member in a medium transportation direction. |
| US09487027B1 |
Single pass inkjet method of applying an adhesive to a substrate to bond a foil material to the substrate
A method of single pass inkjet method of applying an adhesive to a substrate to bond a foil material to the substrate is disclosed. The inkjet printer includes a printer head to pattern an adhesive material directly onto a printable substrate and a foil material. An ultraviolet curing lamp is included to cure the adhesive material using a dry lamination process and/or a wet lamination process. A nip roller is included to affix the foil material with the adhesive material onto to the printable substrate. A rollback mechanism is assembled to lift away excess foil material from the printable substrate and the excess foil material is adjacent to fully cured areas of the adhesive material having the affixed thereupon the foil material. |
| US09487026B2 |
Printing apparatus, printing system, and manufacturing method of printed matter
A printing apparatus includes a plasma processing unit that processes a surface of a processing object by using plasma; a recording unit that performs ink jet recording on the surface of the processing object, which has been plasma-processed by the plasma processing unit; a setting unit that sets a print mode of an image to be recorded by the recording unit, the print mode corresponding to the processing object; and a control unit that controls the plasma processing unit to plasma-process the processing object with a plasma energy amount based on the print mode set by the setting unit. |
| US09487024B2 |
Printer
The disclosure discloses a printer including a controller to control a feeder and a printing head. A regular print mode includes a first cut-feeding process. In the first cut-feeding process, a print-receiving tape is further fed such that the print-receiving tape is positioned by stopping a feeding when a boundary position faces a cutter. A continuous print mode includes a continuous print feeding process. In the continuous print feeding process, the print-receiving tape is further fed such that the print-receiving tape is stopped with the boundary position facing the printing head. The controller is configured to execute a determination process and a second cut-feeding process. In the determination process, it is determined whether a predetermined environmental change condition is satisfied. In the second cut-feeding process, the print-receiving tape stopped is resumed such that the print-receiving tape is positioned by stopping when the boundary position faces the cutter. |
| US09487023B2 |
Tape printer and recording medium configured to reduce print object size when specified size is impossible to print
The disclosure discloses a tape printer includes a controller configured to execute a tape width acquiring process, an object acquiring process, a first specification receiving process, a determining process, and a first reduction process. In the object acquiring process, a first and a second print object to be formed on a first or a second line of the print-receiving tape, are acquired. In the first specification receiving process, specifications of a first and a second size are received. In the determining process, it is determined whether or not a print of the first and the second print object can be performed according to each of the specified sizes and the tape width of the print-receiving tape. In the first reduction process, at least one of the first and the second print object is reduced in accordance with a magnification rule so that the print of the first and the second print object becomes possible. |
| US09487022B2 |
Durable mobile printer
Embodiments of the present invention provide improvements to printers including the use of engineered structures to limit bending, flexing, and/or twisting during impacts and the use of impact absorbing materials to prevent cracks and breaks. Design features and materials add to the rigidity of the printer design to prevent twisting and flexing during impacts and add to the strength of the printer design in typical breakage areas. For example, embodiments provide improvements that strengthen traditional break areas by the use of improved materials and design optimization to distribute impact forces. Embodiments allow the printer to maintain an operational status following a drop test and/or a tumble test. |
| US09487018B2 |
Ink-jet printer and method of performing printing
An ink-jet printer, including a density detector and a controller, wherein, where successive three ejecting operations to be repeatedly performed on the same predetermined region of a recording medium are defined as first through third ejecting operations in the order of performance, the controller executes: a process for detecting a color density of the predetermined region immediately after attachment of the ink ejected in the second ejecting operation; a process for calculating, based on the detected color density, an estimated density after fixation of the ink ejected in the second ejecting operation; a process for calculating, based on print data, an ideal density after fixation of the ink ejected in the second ejecting operation; and a process for correcting the print data based on a difference between the estimated density and the ideal density, and wherein the ink-jet printer performs the third ejecting operation based on the corrected print data. |
| US09487015B2 |
Inkjet refilling adapter
Embodiments provide an inkjet cartridge refilling system. The system may include a drill station configured to drill at least one refilling hole in an inkjet printer cartridge. The system may include an evacuation station configured to remove excess ink from the inkjet printer cartridge. In some embodiments, the excess ink is removed via a vacuum source. The system may also include a filling station configured to provide any of a plurality of inks into the cartridge. Some embodiments provide the ink to the inkjet cartridge via a hole drilled in the cartridge. Other embodiments provide the ink via inkjet nozzles of the inkjet printer cartridge. The system may also include a test station configured to test the refilled cartridge to determine whether it is functioning properly after being filled with ink. |
| US09487009B2 |
Method for manufacturing liquid ejection head
There is provided a method for manufacturing a liquid ejection head comprising a base plate that is provided with supply slits, and an element substrate that is jointed to the base plate and is provided with supply openings. In a case where a shift amount between a position of the supply opening and a position of the supply slit is a predetermined value or more, the element substrate is corrected in position such that the shift amount is less than the predetermined value, and a position of the element substrate is corrected by an integral multiple of an image formation minimum pixel pitch in a sheet conveying direction, of an image formed on a sheet, as a unit of a travel distance at the correcting of the element substrate. |
| US09487007B2 |
Liquid discharge apparatus and method for producing heat sink
There is provided a liquid discharge apparatus including: driving elements; a first member including a first trace and a first IC connected to ones of the plurality of driving elements; a second member including a second trace and a second IC connected to other ones of the driving elements; and a metallic member arranged on one side with respect to the plurality of driving elements in a second direction orthogonal to the liquid discharge surface, the metallic member including: a body portion extending in the first direction while straddling over the driving elements, a first projection projected from the body portion toward the liquid discharge surface; and a second projection projected from the body portion toward the liquid discharge surface, wherein the first IC is supported by the first projection and the second IC is supported by the second projection. |
| US09487005B2 |
Liquid jet head and liquid jet apparatus
A liquid jet head includes a piezoelectric body substrate having an array of alternating ejection grooves and non-ejection grooves opening to a surface of the piezoelectric body substrate. Common drive electrodes are provided on opposed side surfaces of the ejection grooves, and individual drive electrodes are provided on opposed side surfaces of the non-ejection grooves. Two individual wirings are electrically separated from each other on the surface of the piezoelectric body substrate at opposite end sides of each non-ejection groove in a longitudinal direction, and the individual wiring at one end side is electrically connected to the individual drive electrode on one side surface of the non-ejection groove, and the individual wiring at the other end side is electrically connected to the individual drive electrode on the other side surface of the non-ejection groove. |
| US09487003B2 |
Contact-type patterning device
Provided herein is a contact patterning apparatus comprising: a substrate; a fluid supply unit configured to supply fluid towards the substrate; a voltage applying unit electrically connected to the fluid supply unit, and configured to make the fluid from the fluid supply unit connected between the substrate and the fluid supply unit by applying a voltage to a surface of the fluid; and a control unit configured to adjust a level of the voltage being applied to the fluid such that the fluid is patterned on the substrate in a dots form or a continuous line form, thereby stably patterning a continuous line of a fine line width regardless of the viscosity of the fluid being used and the patterning velocity. |
| US09486999B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a liquid discharge head, a temperature detector, a memory, and a controller. The temperature detector detects a temperature of the liquid discharge head. The memory stores the temperature of the liquid discharge head detected with the temperature detector. The controller controls a bubble purge operation to purge bubbles in the liquid discharge head. When a current temperature of the liquid discharge head acquired by the temperature detector is higher than a stored temperature stored in the memory and a deviation of the acquired current temperature and the stored temperature is equal to or more than a predefined threshold value, the controller executes control to execute the bubble purge operation, and when the current temperature acquired by the temperature detector is lower than the stored temperature, the controller executes control to update the stored temperature stored and retained in the memory with the acquired current temperature. |
| US09486998B2 |
Liquid viscosity detecting method for liquid droplet ejecting device, control method for liquid droplet ejecting device, and liquid droplet ejecting device
A liquid viscosity detecting method is performed in a liquid droplet ejecting device that includes a piezoelectric type droplet ejecting head to which a drive waveform is applied to pressurize a liquid chamber to eject a liquid droplet, a drive waveform generator to apply the drive waveform to the droplet ejecting head, and a residual vibration detector. The method includes detecting, by the residual vibration detector, amplitude values of multiple cycles of a residual vibration waveform occurring within the liquid chamber after the drive waveform is applied; calculating an attenuation ratio based on the amplitude values; and calculating a liquid viscosity in the liquid chamber based on the attenuation ratio. |
| US09486996B2 |
Gravure printing process using silver nanoparticle inks for high quality conductive features
A process including selecting a printing system; selecting an ink composition having ink properties that match the printing system; depositing the ink composition onto a substrate to form an image, to form deposited features, or a combination thereof; optionally, heating the deposited features to form conductive features on the substrate; and performing a post-printing treatment after depositing the ink composition. |
| US09486995B2 |
Spring biased transfer press
A heat press having a spring-mounted platen for foil transfers that can accommodate minor variations in garment thickness and produce a high quality foil transfer. The heat press generally comprises a rectangular frame having opposing sides, a plurality of trusses straddling and overarching the frame, and an electrically-heated platen suspended inside the frame. The platen is backed by a reinforcing member. Each truss carries a pair of opposed damping pins which are affixed to the truss, and are slidably inserted down through the reinforcing member and platen, held captive there beneath. A compression spring is mounted on each of the damping pins between said the respective truss and reinforcing member. This provides the platen with a limited degree of freedom to float against the bias of said compression springs compensate for and accommodate minor variations in garment thickness. |
| US09486994B2 |
Method for producing a patterned steel plate with a single-ground color by using roller-coating printing and screen printing
A method for producing a patterned steel plate with a single-ground color by using roller-coating printing and screen printing, and a ground color pattern produced can be more accurate and a thicker and solider printing layer with a stronger stereo perception can also be obtained by using the roller-coating printing and screen printing, meanwhile in roller coating section, a servo control system is further included to control the rotate speed of each roller of the roller coating equipment components and the present time, thus ensuring that the actual roller surface linear velocity is consistent with the process rotation speed, so there is no need to stop the line for adjusting in the production process, thus increasing the production efficiency. |
| US09486986B2 |
Multilayered-stretched resin film
Disclosed is a multilayered-stretched resin film characterized in that on the back surface of a printable front layer (A) comprising a thermoplastic resin, an inorganic finepowder, and/or an organic filler is laminated a back layer (B) comprising a surface-treated inorganic finepowder and a thermoplastic resin comprising a hydrophilic thermoplastic resin, and in that the peel strength of back layer (B) is from 10 to 200 g/cm.The multilayered-stretched resin film affords good suitability for printing and embossing, that can be directly adhered to a wall or the like using a water-soluble adhesive without necessitating a backing of natural paper required by conventional wallpapers, and that can be readily peeled off the wall in a manner permitting recycling. |
| US09486981B2 |
Use of polyethyleneimines in the preparation of polyamides
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a composition comprising (A) at least one lactam, (B) at least one catalyst, (C) an activator from the group consisting of isocyanates, acid anhydrides, acyl halides, reaction products thereof with (A) and mixtures thereof, (D) at least one polyethyleneimine. The invention likewise relates to a composition comprising (i) 0.01 to 10 wt %, based on the sum total of components (A) and (D), of at least one polyethyleneimine, and (ii) 90 to 99.99 wt %, based on the sum total of components (A) and (D), of at least one lactam (A) and/or polyamide obtainable from (A). |
| US09486980B2 |
Method for constructing composite building boards using dissolvable films
Disclosed are building board manufacturing techniques that minimize the build-up of slurry on associated forming equipment and also produce panels with enhanced physical properties. The methods involve applying a dissolvable film laminate to one or more fiber mats at the outset of the forming process. In the un-dissolved state, the film acts as a containment envelope for the gypsum slurry and any free floating glass fibers. During subsequent curing, the film is dissolved by vaporized water. In its dissolved state, the film is liquefied and coats the fibers of the underlying mat. This results in a building board with improved physical properties. |
| US09486978B2 |
Systems and methods for kerfing veneers
Systems and methods are disclosed herein for laser kerfed veneers. A laser may be used to produce kerf lines in thin veneers. The settings of the laser may be adjusted to adjust the width and depth of the kerf lines. The width and depth of the kerf lines may be selected in order to provide sufficient strength to the veneer while decreasing telegraphing. |
| US09486976B1 |
Mat construction having environmentally resistant skin
An industrial mat that has a core construction that provides strength and rigidity to the mat, with the core construction being formed of a support structure that includes one or more elongated components or a plurality of elongated members of wood, engineered wood, a thermosetting plastic material or a metal. The mat includes an encapsulation of a durable skin that includes crumb rubber particles embedded in a polyurethane matrix that surrounds and encapsulates the entire core construction. The skin has a thickness sufficient to provide environmental resistance to the core construction to which it is applied while also providing abrasion resistance to the mat. |
| US09486975B2 |
Acoustic core
A panel assembly and method of making the same, whereby the panel assembly includes an adhesive located onto one or more edges of a layered honeycomb structure and a mesh material adhered in between the layered honeycomb structure by the adhesive. |
| US09486969B2 |
Method for repairing flexible flow lines with a two-piece clamping collar and composite material
The present invention refers to a method to repair flexible flow lines used in the petroleum industry. This method provides a means for quick and permanent repairs of birdcage-type failures (BC) in flexible ducts while they are in operation, without interrupting production flows. The technology proposed, because of its simple characteristics, eliminates the need for replacing the affected section and for allocating special vessels to perform the repair. |
| US09486963B2 |
Work piece having self-supporting gusset and method related thereto
A powder-derived, non-finished work piece includes a first body section that has a wall that spans in a vertical direction. The wall has a relatively thin thickness with respect to a length and a width of the wall. A second body section is arranged next to, but spaced apart from, the first body section. A gusset connects the first body section and the second body section. The gusset extends obliquely from the wall of the first body section with respect to the vertical direction such that the gusset is self-supporting. The first body section has a geometry that corresponds to an end-use component exclusive of the gusset. |
| US09486959B2 |
Method for producing laminate
In the present technology, when rolling rubber material extruded from a first rubber extruder (32) with a first pair of rollers (36, 36) to form a first sheet-shaped member (S1) and layering and rolling the first sheet-shaped member (S1) and the second sheet-shaped member (S2) supplied from an original material with a second pair of rollers (38, 38) to contiguously produce a laminate having the first sheet-shaped member (S1) and a second sheet-shaped member (S2) laminated therein, the gap between the first pair of rollers (36, 36) is controlled on the basis of the detection result of the thickness (d1) of the first sheet-shaped member (S1) rolled by the first pair of rollers (36, 36), the detection result of the thickness (d2) of the second sheet-shaped member (S2) supplied from the original material, and the detection result of the thickness (d3) of the laminate body. |
| US09486956B2 |
Power adapter components, housing and methods of assembly
A dual-purpose transformer may be oriented in a plane perpendicular to planes in which printed circuit boards connected thereto are oriented, thereby providing structural support for a framework that can include a dense arrangement of internal power adapter components, in addition to stepping down voltage. Methods for ultrasonic welding are also provided and may be used to concurrently assemble, join and press-fit power adapter housing components. A ground lug is also provided that is shaped and located within a cover piece of a power adapter housing to allow for blind mating with a printed circuit board during an assembly process. |
| US09486955B2 |
Ultrasonic press using servo motor with delayed motion
An ultrasonic welding system includes a movable ultrasonic welding stack, an electrically powered linear actuator with a servo motor and a movable element, a controller, and at least two sensors. The controller causes the ultrasonic welding stack to apply a predetermined positive initial force to at least one workpiece prior to initiation of welding. The controller further causes the ultrasonic welding stack to initiate subsequent movement of the ultrasonic welding stack, following initiation of welding, only after the signal outputs from the at least two sensors indicate that a combination of control variables satisfies a predetermined condition. |
| US09486947B2 |
Phosphorus treatment agent methods of manufacture and use
The invention includes a tablet made from a coagulant that will improve the settling of suspended solids in an aqueous media such as wastewater, recycled water, potable water, storm water, swimming pool water, spa water, boiler water, cooling tower water and industrial process water. The agent is a tablet containing at least one salt from the aluminum sulfate family in a mixture of organic and inorganic binders. The mixed material is especially adapted to lend itself to high speed molding operations. Such agent, when in molded form, provides controlled dissolution in an aqueous media, exhibits strength and non-chipping characteristics which is a benefit in shipping and handling and is free from dusting, flaking or other deteriorative factors. In its tablet form, this agent can be used in combination with a holding apparatus having slotted opening zones. |
| US09486945B2 |
Method and device for curing a thermosetting polymer
The present invention concerns a method and a device for curing a thermosetting polymer. The method comprises the steps of irradiating the thermosetting polymer with microwaves at a first power level so as to heat up the thermosetting polymer by dielectric heating, and when the thermosetting polymer reaches a first predetermined temperature, irradiating the thermosetting polymer with microwaves at a second power level, substantially higher than the first power level, to further heat up the thermosetting polymer by dielectric heating. The device comprises an enclosure for receiving the thermosetting polymer, a microwave emitter for emitting microwave radiation into the enclosure, and a control unit for controlling a microwave emission power of the microwave emitter according to the abovementioned method. |
| US09486944B2 |
Resin solidification substrate and assembly
A solidification substrate assembly for making a three-dimensional object from a solidifiable material includes a solidification substrate assembly. In certain examples, the solidifiable material solidifies in contact with the solidification substrate, and the tilting of the substrate and/or or the use of a peeling member facilitates separation of the substrate from the solidified material. In other examples, the solidification substrate assembly includes a film that is adjacent to a rigid or semi-rigid layer. The solidifiable material solidifies in contact with the film, and a peeling member peels the film away from the solidified material. Intelligent solidification substrate assemblies are also described in which a force sensor determines when to expose the solidifiable material to solidification energy and/or whether to use a peeling member to separate the solidification substrate from a solidified objection section. |
| US09486943B1 |
Method for creating mandrels with voids for expansion control during curing
A method and apparatus for forming a tool is provided. A number of members comprised of a thermoplastic material is positioned within a hollow portion of a structure. The tool is formed within the hollow portion of the structure with the number of members positioned within the hollow portion of the structure. Heat is applied within a selected range to the number of members to reduce a size of each of the number of members. The number of members is removed from the tool such that the tool is left with a number of voids. |
| US09486930B2 |
Shaving systems
Shaving assemblies are disclosed that include a blade unit, an interface element configured to connect the blade unit to a handle, on which the blade unit is pivotably mounted, and an return element disposed between the blade unit and interface element. The return element serves as interface piece, connector and pivot all in one. Shaving systems including such shaving assemblies are also disclosed, as are methods of using such shaving systems. |
| US09486928B2 |
Force limiting device and method
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for limiting the contact force between a moving device and another object, using a parallel mechanism and torque limiters where the threshold force to activate the force limiting mechanism is not related to the configuration of the moving device or the location of the contact force relative to the activation point of the force limiting mechanism, and where the mechanism may be configured for one, two or three degrees of freedom. A counterbalance mechanism is also provided to counteract gravity load when the force limiting mechanism is configured for three degrees of freedom and responsive to contact forces including a vertical element. In particular, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for limiting the contact force between a moving robotic device and a contactable object. |
| US09486923B2 |
Floor treatment robot with personal weighing scale
The invention relates to a floor treatment robot having an autonomously movable floor treatment appliance and having a housing. The housing of the floor treatment appliance has a standing area on the top side for supporting a person. At least one load cell is provided. The load cell is suitable for measuring the weight of the person. This floor treatment robot solves the technical problem of reducing the space requirement for different domestic appliances. |
| US09486922B2 |
Systems and methods for determining a status of a component of a device
Methods and systems for determining a status of a component of a device are provided. An example method includes triggering an action of a component of a device, and responsively receiving information associated with the action of the component from a sensor. The method further includes a computing system having a processor and a memory comparing the information with calibration data and determining a status of the component based on the comparison. In some examples, the calibration data may include information derived from data received from a pool of one or more devices utilizing same or similar components as the component. The determined status may include information associated with a performance of the component with respect to performances of same or similar components of the pool of devices. In one example, the device may self-calibrate the component based on the status. |
| US09486919B1 |
Dual-axis robotic joint
Example joints for a robotic device are provided. An example robotic joint may include an upper portion, a lower portion, and a connecting link positioned between the upper portion and the lower portion. The upper portion may be coupled to the connecting link via a first revolute joint, and the lower portion may be coupled to the connecting link via a second revolute joint. The robotic joint may also include an actuator having a first end coupled to the upper portion and a second end coupled to the connecting link, where the actuator is configured to apply a torque to the connecting link. The robotic joint may also include a coupling element configured to transfer the torque applied to the connecting link into a rotational motion of the lower portion about the second revolute joint. |
| US09486917B2 |
Mobile automated assembly tool for aircraft structures
A method and apparatus for performing an operation on a surface of a structure. An assembly system may comprise a motion platform and a mobile platform. The motion platform may be configured to be positioned below the surface of the structure to perform the operation on the surface. The mobile platform may be configured to carry the motion platform across a floor of a manufacturing environment from a first location to a second location. |
| US09486912B1 |
Pivotal structure for a receiving seat of a toolbox
A toolbox includes a toolbox body having a bottom wall and a chamber delimited by the bottom wall. Two plates are mounted to and extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall. Each plate includes at least one pivot hole in the form of a partial hole having first and second stop walls. Each of the first and second stop walls extends away from a center of the partial hole. At least one receiving seat includes a plurality of grooves and two sidewalls. An axle is formed on each sidewall and is pivotably engaged in the pivot hole of one of the plates. Each axle is semi-cylindrical and includes a rectilinear wall having a length slightly smaller than a diameter of the pivot hole. The rectilinear wall includes two half sections respectively having first and second abutment portions corresponding to a storage position and an extended position of the receiving seat. |
| US09486907B2 |
Reversion trigger for combustion-powered fastener-driving tool
A fastener-driving tool has a housing including a combustion chamber, where the combustion chamber generates combustion for driving a fastener, and a processor associated with the housing and in communication with the combustion chamber. The processor is configured to cause an initial combustion in the combustion chamber and cause a fastener to be driven when a first actuation event and a second actuation event occur, and is configured to cause at least one subsequent combustion in the combustion chamber and cause at least one additional fastener to be driven when only the first actuation event occurs. |
| US09486896B2 |
Abrasive article and coating
An abrasive article includes a body having an abrasive portion. The abrasive portion includes a bond material and abrasive particles located within the bond material. The body also comprises a coating coupled to and overlying at least a portion of an exterior surface of the abrasive portion. The coating has a water vapor transmission rate of not greater than about 2 g/m2-day. |
| US09486890B2 |
Blast nozzle targeting apparatus
A targeting apparatus configured for attachment to a hand-held blast nozzle is presented that has a housing with a through hole to accept the nozzle, where the housing has a front face surface containing at least three optical devices that can be adjusted to a focal point of convergence of variable distance along a centerline of the nozzle outlet. The targeting apparatus can also include an array of lamps positioned around the front face surface to project task lighting on a workpiece to be blasted. |
| US09486889B2 |
Tolerance detection method and tolerance detection device for shape measuring apparatus
When detecting a tolerance of a shape of a measured object having a complicated shape that makes it difficult to perform a continued measurement, a plurality of partial measurement data that are set are retrieved. Next, a reference position is set from first partial measurement data. Then, each of the partial measurement data is combined into one data using the reference position. Further, the tolerance is calculated using the combined data. |
| US09486887B2 |
Tool chucking device
A tool chucking device, especially an oscillation tool chucking device, includes at least one chucking unit which has at least one pin-type chucking element for clamping a treatment tool in an axial direction and at least one grip head arranged on the chucking element. The tool chucking device further includes at least one movement conversion unit which is designed to displace at least the grip head at least substantially along the axial direction into at least one direction different from the axial direction depending on the movement of the chucking element. |
| US09486885B2 |
Drilling tool for machine tools and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to a drilling tool for machine tools has a drill body, a cutting head arranged on the front face of the drill body and a shaft arranged at the end thereof, wherein the drill body has two chip flutes, which are delimited at their flanks by ribs and a first chip flute of which is spirally curved. A second chip flute is not spiraled or is spirally curved with a pitch differing from the first chip flute, preferably running in the same direction of rotation. |
| US09486883B2 |
Fluidic artificial muscle actuator and swaging process therefor
A fluidic artificial muscle actuator consisting of an inner elastic bladder surrounded by a braided filament sleeve and sealed off on either end with end fittings. Pressurization of the actuator produces force and/or motion through radial movement of the bladder and sleeve which forces the sleeve to move axially. Both contractile and extensile motions are possible depending on the geometry of the braided sleeve. The fluidic artificial muscle actuator is manufactured using a swaging process which plastically deforms swage tubes around the end fittings, braided sleeve, and pressure bladder, creating a strong mechanical clamping action that may be augmented with adhesive bonding of the components. The swaging system includes the swaging die and associated components which are used to plastically deform the swage tube during assembly of the actuator. |
| US09486879B2 |
Bonding material and bonding body, and bonding method
There is provided a bonding material capable of forming a bonding body under an inert gas atmosphere such as a nitrogen atmosphere, and capable of exhibiting a bonding strength that endures a practical use even if not a heat treatment is applied thereto at a high temperature, which is the bonding material containing silver nanoparticles coated with a fatty acid having a carbon number of 8 or less and having an average primary particle size of 1 nm or more and 200 nm or less, and silver particles having an average particle size of 0.5 μm or more and 10 μm or less, and an organic material having two or more carboxyl groups. |
| US09486877B2 |
Laser pulse energy control systems and methods
Systems and methods provide laser pulse energy control and/or monitoring. An example laser processing apparatus includes a laser system to generate a beam of laser pulses and a pulse energy control system to adjust the pulse energy of each laser pulse in the beam on a pulse-by-pulse basis. The pulse energy control system includes an open loop feedforward control path that selects a pulse energy transmission value for each laser pulse based on a calibrated transmission curve that maps laser pulse energy as a function of pulse repetition frequency. A laser energy monitor measures the laser pulse energy of each laser pulse in the beam of laser pulses. A power control loop may further adjust the pulse energy of one or more laser pulses in the beam of laser pulses based on feedback from the laser energy monitor. |
| US09486873B2 |
Fingertip and foot pedal amperage control combination apparatus and method
A combination fingertip and foot pedal amperage control kit for a welding torch. A housing has a top surface with a channel adapted to accept a welding torch handle. A motion transducer is contained within the housing, the motion transducer includes a control tab for changing the motion transducer value when translationally moved. A slide trigger has one end coupled to the motion transducer within the housing to control the amount of current that flows to the welding torch, and a second end protruding outside of the housing including a fingertip grip. The housing and slide trigger are also removably affixed to a hand grip. A foot pedal amperage controller is adapted to accept the housing and slide trigger together with or separated from the hand grip, the foot pedal has an actuator adapted to move the slide trigger when the peddle is activated. |
| US09486865B2 |
Pipe cutter
A power tool includes a housing assembly, a motor, a pipe holder, and a knife pivotally coupled to the pipe holder at a pivot point for movement relative to the pipe holder. The knife is operable to pivot through an angle toward the pipe holder during a cutting motion and is operable to pivot through the angle away from the pipe holder during a return motion. The power tool also includes a drive mechanism having a first gear coupled to the motor and a second gear coupled to the knife. The power tool further includes a release mechanism coupled to the drive mechanism. The release mechanism is operable to selectively disconnect the second gear from the knife so that movement of the motor is not transmitted to the knife and the knife is movable through the angle away from the pipe holder. |
| US09486862B1 |
Fly cutter cutting tool
A fly cutter cutting tool is disclosed by this invention. The fly cutter cutting tool has a mounting shaft and a cutting base in a T-arrangement to provide a counter-balance. The carbide insert is attached to the working end. The working end has a rake angle to aid in clearing chips from beneath the tool holder and aid in the cutting process. The working end also has a hood to create a downward angle to deflect machined chips to prevent fouling of the work piece during cutting. The mounting shaft is attached to the cutting base at a perpendicular or a substantially perpendicular angle. |
| US09486861B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for cutting a reverse spot-face in a workpiece
A reverse spot-facing tool for cutting a reverse spot-face in a workpiece using a reverse spot-facing cutter configured to engage a pilot shaft having a first end and a second end is disclosed. The workpiece comprises a through hole having a central axis. The reverse spot-facing tool comprises a stop configured to be located between the first end and the second end of the pilot shaft; a biasing assembly that generates a first thrust force and an equal and opposite second thrust force when the reverse spot-facing cutter is cutting the reverse spot face; and a thrust bearing configured to be positioned between the biasing assembly and the stop. When the reverse spot-facing cutter is cutting the reverse spot-face, the thrust bearing transmits the second thrust force from the biasing assembly to the stop, and the biasing assembly transmits the first thrust force to the workpiece. |
| US09486859B2 |
Drill
A drill that exhibits improved drill-hole depth precision is provided. Said drill, which uses a tool (T) mounted to a main shaft (16) to drill a countersunk hole (Wh) into a workpiece (W), is provided with the following: a pressure foot (17) that presses on the surface of the workpiece (W) and suppresses vibration thereof; and a displacement sensor (18) that measures the distance (L), in the axial direction of the main shaft (16), between the pressure foot (17) pressing on the workpiece (W) and the end face (16a) of the main shaft (16), which is set to a prescribed reference distance (Lo). The axial position of the main shaft (16) is corrected using a correction distance (ΔL), i.e. the difference between the distance (L) measured by the displacement sensor (18) and the reference distance (Lo). After the main shaft (16) is set to the reference distance (Lo), the main shaft (16) is moved in the axial direction thereof in accordance with the depth of the countersink part (Whb) of the countersunk hole (Wh) and the tool (T) is used to drill the hole. |
| US09486852B2 |
Radial pattern assembly
A radial pattern assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a hollow sprue comprising a sprue wall disposed about a longitudinal axis, the sprue wall having a thickness, a length and a periphery. The assembly also includes a pattern disposed radially outwardly of the sprue wall. The assembly further includes a radially outwardly extending gate attached to and extending between the sprue wall and the pattern, the hollow sprue, pattern and gate each formed from a fugitive material. |
| US09486848B2 |
Dual-phase hot extrusion of metals
The present disclosure provides a method of dual-phase hot metal extrusion comprising (i) providing a load carrier made of a first metal material, wherein the load carrier comprises one or more load chambers containing a second metal material, wherein the melting point of the second metal material is lower than the melting point of the first metal material, (ii) heating the load carrier to a temperature above the melting point of the second metal material and suitable for extrusion of the load carrier, and (iii) extruding the load carrier to form an extruded product. The present disclosure also provides apparatuses for accomplishing the dual-phase hot extrusion of metals and products resulting from such processes. |
| US09486846B2 |
Elastic junction for sliding block adapter
The elastic junction for the dynamic connection between the motor side and the head of a sliding block adapter, or between adapter and rolls of a rolling plant, comprises a central pin (5) arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the adapter (3), multiple sliding blocks (4) connected by means of the pin (5) to the adapter (3), a block (1) fixed to the flange (2) and two interfaced and complementary series of dampers (6) connected to the pin (5). This ensures the reduction of the axial tensions which are transmitted along the adapter in response to stresses caused by rolling. |
| US09486841B2 |
Autonomous mobile foam-producing unit for cleaning
The present invention relates to an autonomous mobile foam-producing unit for cleaning, specifically said unit allows the cleaning and sanitization of agricultural and livestock areas. The invention also enables to generate a large quantity of foam quickly and ejected with high pressure, preventing in turn a water hammer or Zhukowski pulse. The present invention is also autonomous, including power systems based on gasoline or diesel engines with the ability to be adapted to batteries and solar cells. |
| US09486836B2 |
Ore screening panel fastener
A headed retention pin is proposed that seats into recesses in the lower adjoining edges of two screening panels. The heads are tapered vertical from the upper surface of the head to the lower edge of the panels and tapered horizontally from the outer edge of the heads toward the center line of the head which lies on the join line of the two adjacent panels. These appear to be an X in plan view. The advantage is that as well as locating the panels correctly and retaining the panels on the frame they also pull the adjacent panels together to reduce ingress of fines between the panels. |
| US09486835B2 |
Apparatus and method for ultrasound screening
An apparatus for ultrasound screening with a screen frame a screen fabric arranged in the screen frame with at least one ultrasound converter for producing ultrasonic vibrations. Ultrasonic vibrations may be introduced into the screen fabric via sound-conducting connection with the ultrasound converter, and the location of the screen fabric at which the introduction of the ultrasonic vibrations into the screen fabric may be varied. |
| US09486830B1 |
Method for manufacturing a material dispense tip
A material dispense tip includes an elongated hole in an elongated neck that extends from an input end of the neck to an output end of the neck. The hole at the output end of the neck has a first diameter. The output end of the neck is positioned against a die surface. A punch is inserted into the hole at the input end of the neck. An external force is applied to the neck to cause the output end of the neck to be deformed under compression by the die surface, to reduce the diameter of the hole at the output end of the neck from the first diameter to a second diameter that is less than the first diameter. |
| US09486828B2 |
Dual coating system
First and second coaters, first and second edge determiners, and first and second moving mechanisms are provided. The first and second coaters apply a coating solution for forming a heat-resistant protection layer onto both surfaces of a substrate on each of which an active material layer is previously formed. The first and second edge determiners determine the locations of lateral edges of the active material layers formed on both surfaces of the substrate to be coated by the respective first and second coaters. The first and second moving mechanisms move the location of the substrate along the width thereof based on the locations of the lateral edges determined by the first and second edge determiners, respectively. The locations of regions of both surfaces of the substrate to be coated are separately adjusted. |
| US09486827B2 |
Jet-receiving nozzle for a powder-delivery injector plus powder-delivery injector
The invention relates to a jet-receiving nozzle for a powder-delivery injector with an arresting region on the injector side and a connecting region remote from the injector, the arresting region having a configuration preventing incorrect connection. The invention also relates to a powder-delivery injector for delivering a powder-air mixture, the powder-delivery injector having an accepting channel for accepting a jet-receiving nozzle. |
| US09486821B2 |
Coating apparatus for applying coating material onto sheet member
[Object] To provide a coating apparatus that can prevent distortion of the shape of a coating area on a sheet member.[Solution Means] A coating apparatus 50 includes a suction roller peripheral wall 114a (base plate 70) on which a flexible electrolyte membrane 21 shaped like a thin film (sheet member 60) is placed, drawing unit 80 that draws the electrolyte membrane on the suction roller peripheral wall, and a coating mechanism 90 that applies catalyst ink 91 (material) onto the electrolyte membrane drawn on the suction roller peripheral wall by the drawing unit.The electrolyte membrane has, in a range from a center portion to a portion on an inner side of an outer peripheral edge 61, a coating area 62 where the catalyst ink is applied. The drawing unit draws the electrolyte membrane on the suction roller peripheral wall in the coating area where the catalyst ink is applied, and also draws the electrolyte membrane on the suction roller peripheral wall 114a in a range 63 extending outward beyond the coating area. |
| US09486820B2 |
Horizontally rotating controlled droplet application
A controlled droplet application (CDA) nozzle including a cone having plural ridges disposed longitudinally on an interior surface of the cone; and a fin assembly connected to the interior surface, the fin assembly comprising a plurality of fins extending between a central portion of the cone and the interior surface, wherein adjacent pairs of the plurality of fins and the interior surface at least partially define a respective compartment for the collection of a defined volume of fluid. |
| US09486819B2 |
System having foam busting nozzle and sub-surface mixing nozzle
A surface foam diffuser system having a first nozzle disposed above a top surface of the at least partially liquid contents, a splash plate positioned adjacent to the first nozzle outlet, and a second nozzle disposed below the top surface of the at least partially liquid contents is disclosed for suppressing foaming in large processing tanks. The system nozzles each have an inlet for receiving pressurized liquid and an outlet for ejecting a liquid stream into the tank, the depth of the second nozzle and the direction of the liquid stream there from being such that rotation of the top surface is facilitated. The spray of the first nozzle, as dispersed by the splash plate, reduces foam on at least a portion of the top surface, with the rotation of the top surface allowing each portion of the top surface to eventually fall within the reducing spray. |
| US09486814B2 |
Handling and sorting materials using electroadhesion
A process for sorting materials using material-selective electroadhesive grippers is disclosed. At least one of an electroadhesive surface or a plurality of articles is manipulated such that multiple ones of the plurality of articles are at least intermittently proximate the electroadhesive surface. Voltage is applied to one or more electrodes in the electroadhesive surface to thereby cause the electroadhesive surface to selectively adhere to a subset of the plurality of articles based on the subset of the plurality of articles having different material properties than others of the plurality of articles. While the voltage is applied, the electroadhesive surface is moved with respect to the others of the plurality of articles to thereby separate the subset of the plurality of articles from the others of the plurality of articles. |
| US09486811B2 |
Apparatus for prewashing comminuted plastic parts
An apparatus for prewashing comminuted plastic parts and for separating heavy materials or mineral constituents such as sand, silt, etc., comprises a material feed (1) for the plastic parts to be prewashed, a separating region (2) for the heavy materials, which comprises a separating chamber (3) that is filled with water during operation, a washing region (4) for the further washing of the floating fraction coming from the separating region (2), which comprises a washing chamber (6) working with a water bath (5) and/or shower/spray water, and a drawing-off region (7) for the usable material washed in the washing region (4), which comprises a drawing-off chamber (8) that is filled with water during operation, wherein the plastic parts pass via the material feed (1) into the separating chamber (8), preferably by gravitational force, via a first conveying device (9), as a floating fraction, into the washing chamber (6) and, as usable material, into the drawing-off chamber (8), and from there are conveyed via a second conveying device (10) to a material discharge (11). |
| US09486809B2 |
Use of temperature measurements for indirect measurement of process variables in milling systems
A method is disclosed for operating a mill at continuous input and output mass flows, and to the mill, wherein a process model based on power balance equations and mass balance equations is used. Characteristic process variables can be measured in a simple manner outside the mill. Characteristic process variables which are still not known can be ascertained by means of inserting the measured values into a respective power balance equation, assuming that the other process variables are in each case known or are insignificant. On this basis, the mill can be actuated in an optimum manner in order to provide a high output power. |
| US09486808B2 |
Process of obtaining plastic compound based on fibrous plant material, plastic compound based on fibrous plant material obtained and equipment for extrusion of plastic compound based on fibrous plant material
A process of obtaining plastic compound based on fibrous plant material, plastic compound based on obtained fibrous plant material and equipment for extrusion of plastic compound based on fibrous plant material. The objective is to fundamentally give to the final product a greater mechanical resistance against natural degrading agents, such as weather and infestations, and to this end, proposes changes in its procedural and manufacturing stages, in order to provide, essentially, the increase in the density of the final product, making it more compressed and maintaining its organoleptic properties unchanged. |
| US09486807B2 |
Shredder with interactive interface
A shredder includes a cutting mechanism operable to shred material fed thereto. A controller is coupled to the cutting mechanism to control the on/off state and the direction of rotation of the cutting mechanism. An interactive user interface is coupled to the controller. The controller is configured to detect a jammed condition within the shredder and communicate a series of instructions to the interactive user interface to instruct the user how to clear the jam. |
| US09486803B2 |
Pipette tips
Disclosed here are pipette tips useful for acquiring or dispelling liquids, and include one or more design that may increase fluid delivery precision and/or accuracy, and may reduce certain repetitive motions. |
| US09486802B2 |
Method of controlling a flow
The present invention relates to a method of controlling a flow in a micro conduit system, and particularly a micro conduit system comprising one or more capillary-stop valves (6,6′) wherein the stopping ability of the capillary stop valve is overcome with the help of an acoustic wave source. |
| US09486800B2 |
Precursor polyelectrolyte complexes compositions
The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions comprising polyelectrolyte complexes. The compositions include a water-soluble first polyelectrolyte bearing a net cationic charge or capable of developing a net cationic charge and a water-soluble second polyelectrolyte bearing a net anionic charge or capable of developing a net anionic charge. The total polyelectrolyte concentration of the first solution is at least 110 millimolar. The composition is free of coacervates, precipitates, latex particles, synthetic block copolymers, silicone copolymers, cross-linked poly(acrylic) and cross-linked water-soluble polyelectrolyte. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface. |
| US09486781B2 |
Ethanol manufacturing process over catalyst having improved radial crush strength
Acetic acid is hydrogenation in the presence of a catalyst comprising one or more active metals on a silica support, wherein the catalyst has a radial crush strength of at least 4 N/mm. The one or more active metals may include cobalt, copper, gold, iron, nickel, palladium, platinum, iridium, osmium, rhenium, rhodium, ruthenium, tin, zinc, lanthanum, cerium, manganese, chromium, vanadium, molybdenum and mixtures thereof. Radial crush strength may be improved by steam treating the catalyst support prior to the loading of the one or more active metals. |
| US09486780B2 |
Catalyst coating liquid manufacturing method and catalyst body thereby
A method of preparing a catalyst coating solution may realize high purification performance by preventing the active surface of a catalyst from being reduced, and may greatly improve the durability of a catalyst by preventing soot from directly coming into contact with a catalyst layer containing a precious metal so that the catalyst layer can continuously exhibit proper purification performance. A method of manufacturing a catalyst body using the catalyst coating solution, and a catalyst body manufactured by the method are also described. |
| US09486779B2 |
Glass article provided with photocatalyst film
The present invention provides a glass article including a photocatalyst film 1 containing silicon oxide particles 6 and titanium oxide particles 5, and a glass sheet 2. Assuming that the photocatalyst film 1 has a film thickness T, 80% or more of the titanium oxide particles are localized in a region between a surface of the glass sheet 2 and a position spaced from the surface by 0.6 T toward a surface of the photocatalyst film 1 in a thickness direction of the photocatalyst film 1. The glass article has an increased transmittance provided by enhancing the reflection-reducing function of the photocatalyst film 1 while maintaining the film strength and photocatalytic function of the photocatalyst film 1. |
| US09486772B1 |
Methods of functionalization of carbon nanotubes by photooxidation
A method of photooxidizing carbon nanotubes, such as single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The nanotubes are purified and dispersed in a solvent, such as n-methyl pyrrolidinone or dimethylformamide. A singlet oxygen sensitizer like Rose Bengal is added to the solution. Oxygen gas is continuously supplied while irradiating the solution while irradiating the solution with ultraviolet light to produce singlet oxygen to oxidize the single-walled carbon nanotubes. Advantageously, the method significantly increases the level of oxidation compared with prior art methods. |
| US09486769B2 |
Method of manufacturing gel particles, and drive signal generation device for liquid ejection head
A method of manufacturing gel particles adapted to apply a voltage to a liquid ejection head to eject a liquid including a polymeric material toward an ejection target liquid to thereby manufacture the gel particles, includes: raising the voltage from a first voltage to a second voltage at a first gradient; raising the voltage from the second voltage to a third voltage at a second gradient steeper than the first gradient at which the voltage is raised from the first voltage to the second voltage, and then holding the voltage at the third voltage; dropping the voltage from the third voltage to a fourth voltage, and then holding the voltage at the fourth voltage; raising the voltage from the fourth voltage to a fifth voltage at a third gradient, wherein the third gradient is gentler than the second gradient. |
| US09486768B2 |
Colloids with valence: fabrication, functionalization and directional bonding
A method for creating the colloidal analogs of atoms with valence: colloidal particles with chemically distinct surface patches that imitate hybridized atomic orbitals, including sp, sp2, sp3, sp3 d, sp3 d2 and sp3 d3. Functionalized with DNA with single-stranded sticky ends, patches on different particles can form highly directional bonds through programmable, specific and reversible DNA hybridization. These features allow the particles to self-assemble into ‘colloidal molecules’ with triangular, tetrahedral and other bonding symmetries, and should also give access to a rich variety of new microstructured colloidal materials. |
| US09486766B2 |
Pneumatic system for densely loading catalyst into bayonet tubes for a steam reforming reactor-exchanger with a detachable feed tube for gas
A device and a method are disclosed for densely and homogeneously loading catalyst into the annular space of bayonet tubes utilized in a steam reforming reactor. The device is of pneumatic type and uses a detachable feed tube for introducing gas into the annular space. |
| US09486763B2 |
Thermochemical system having a housing made of a composite material
The present invention relates to a thermochemical system comprising a reactor, or an enclosure for storing a solid reactive material capable of absorbing a gas, the reactive material and the gas being such that, when placed together, a chemical reaction occurs which results in the gas being absorbed by the reactive material, and a reverse chemical reaction occurs, wherein the gas absorbed by the reactive material is desorbed when heating means are applied to said reactive material when the latter has absorbed the gas. Said thermochemical system is characterized in that the reactor consists of an outer housing which is made of a composite material and which contains a sealed inner housing containing the reactive material, the heating means being arranged between the two enclosures. |
| US09486761B2 |
Slurry dispenser for radioisotope production
A slurry dispensing system (10) is disclosed. A peristaltic pump (28) may direct a flow of slurry out of a horizontal mixer (20) to a slurry dispenser (140). This slurry dispenser (140) may be operated on a programmed manner by a controller (260) to dispense slurry into a container (36). Both a bypass valve (172) and a dispensing valve (204) of the slurry dispenser may be opened/closed on a programmed basis by the controller (260) to deliver slurry to a container (36), such as a glass column. Slurry may be intermittently directed into a metering chamber (194) of the slurry dispenser (140), while the remainder of the slurry being directed into the slurry dispenser (140) may be recirculated back to the horizontal mixer (20). |
| US09486757B2 |
Scale-up of microfluidic devices
Parallel uses of microfluidic methods and devices for focusing and/or forming discontinuous sections of similar or dissimilar size in a fluid are described. In some aspects, the present invention relates generally to flow-focusing-type technology, and also to microfluidics, and more particularly parallel use of microfluidic systems arranged to control a dispersed phase within a dispersant, and the size, and size distribution, of a dispersed phase in a multi-phase fluid system, and systems for delivery of fluid components to multiple such devices. |
| US09486754B2 |
Wine and liquor aerator fitment
An aerating system includes a container, a liquid, and a venturi tube. The liquid is inside the container. The container includes a dispensing port for dispensing the liquid. The dispensing port includes the venturi tube. The venturi tube is positioned so liquid being dispensed through the dispensing port flows through the venturi tube. The venturi tube includes a portion that includes an air-access port. The air access port is located to draw air into the venturi tube when the liquid is dispensed through the venturi tube. The portion of the venturi tube that includes the air-access port is located inside the container. |
| US09486752B2 |
Distributor plate for a gas-liquid mixture, provided with distribution elements having low sensitivity to a lack of horizontality
The present invention describes a distributor plate provided with distribution elements having low sensitivity to a lack of horizontality, a distribution element being constituted by two substantially co-axial cylinders termed the inner cylinder (1) and the outer cylinder, the lower horizontal surface (5) separating the two cylinders being closed. The distributor plate is suitable for co-current downflows of gas and liquid, more particularly in “trickle bed” mode. The invention also concerns the application of the distributor plate to processes for the hydrotreatment or hydrogenation of various oil cuts. |
| US09486750B2 |
Gas injection method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for injecting a gas into a liquid in which a rotating helical impeller within a draft tube submerged in the liquid creates a liquid flow within the draft tube. Gas bubbles are injected into the draft tube either above or below or alongside the helical impeller or in all three locations. The liquid is drawn into the draft tube with a superficial velocity greater than a substantially uniform terminal ascent velocity of the gas bubbles to allow entrainment of undissolved gas bubbles in the bulk liquid into the liquid being drawn into the draft tube. The gas bubbles are injected with a uniform diameter of between about 10.0 microns and about 1.0 millimeters. The small bubble size enhances the dissolution of the gas into the liquid and also allow the entrainment of the gas into the liquid being drawn into the draft tube. |
| US09486748B2 |
Filter for water treatment filtering and method for producing the same
The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a filter medium for a water treatment filter having contradictory characteristics, that is, hydrophilicity and chemical resistance, and a long life, and to provide the production method thereof. A filter medium for a water treatment filter according to the present invention is characterized in comprising a porous base material having a hydrophilic coating layer; wherein the hydrophilic coating layer has a cross-linked hydrophilic polymer and a high electron density part; a hydrophilic polymer in the cross-linked hydrophilic polymer is cross-linked with an aliphatic saturated hydrocarbon group which may contain one or more functional groups selected from a group consisting of an ether group, a hydroxy group and an amino group; the high electron density part has π electrons; and the high electron density part is covalently bonded to the cross-linked hydrophilic polymer. |
| US09486747B2 |
Nanocomposite membranes with advanced antifouling properties under visible light irradiation
Nitrogen doped TiO2 (N—TiO2) is used to fabricate Poly(vinyledene fluoride) (PVDF)/N—TiO2 mixed matrix hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) through a phase inversion method to improve filtration efficiencies and antifouling properties. The membranes performances were evaluated based on the water permeability, humic acid (HA) rejection and antifouling properties. Resulting membranes showed brown color and improved hydrophilicity, especially under light irradiation. When compared to original PVDF and PVDF/P25 membrane, mixed matrix membranes containing N—TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) showed clear photocatalytic activities under visible light irradiation. Also, membrane performance assessments indicated that PVDF/N—TiO2 membranes possessed enhanced water flux, similar HA rejection (e.g., above 96%) and improved fouling resistance with PVDF membranes as a control. The results demonstrate the potential of the suggested methodology for development of membranes with improved water permeability and superior antifouling properties based on photo-degradation processes and photo-induced hydrophilicity enhancement driven by solar light as a renewable energy source. |
| US09486745B2 |
Semipermeable membrane and manufacturing method therefor
Provided is a semipermeable membrane having at least a separating functional layer, wherein azo compounds are retained in the separating functional layer, and the separating functional layer has a yellow index of 10 to 40. Also provided is a method of producing the semipermeable membrane. The present invention provides a semipermeable membrane having not only high water permeability but also high rejection performance even for substances that are nondissociative in the neutral range, such as boric acid, and showing high durability and a manufacturing method therefor. |
| US09486743B2 |
Apparatus and method for removing finely divided solids from a liquid flow
Apparatus (8) for filtering, clarifying or polishing, a liquid flow containing finely divided solids. In the apparatus (8), the liquid flow to be filtered is directed to the outer surface of a filter element (3) with high speed and in tangential direction, and thereby, influenced by the generated shearing force, part of the liquid penetrates the filter element (3) and is filtered. More precisely, the apparatus (8) includes a cross-flow tube (2) having a circular cylindrical shape and having apertures directed substantially in tangential direction towards the outer surface of the filter element (3). A method for removing finely divided solids from a liquid flow using such apparatus is also described. |
| US09486740B2 |
Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
In an engine, an exhaust purification catalyst (13) and a hydrocarbon feed valve (15) are arranged in an engine exhaust passage, and, a low pressure exhaust gas recirculation system (LPL) which makes exhaust gas downstream of the exhaust purification catalyst (13) recirculate is provided. If hydrocarbons are injected from the hydrocarbon feed valve (15), a carbon dioxide which is generated at the exhaust purification catalyst (13) is recirculated, and the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas which flows into the exhaust purification catalyst (13) temporarily drops. Hydrocarbons are injected from the hydrocarbon feed valve (15) in synchronization with this temporary drop in the air-fuel ratio. |
| US09486735B2 |
Composite oxygen transport membrane
A method is described of producing a composite oxygen ion membrane and a composite oxygen ion membrane in which a porous fuel oxidation layer and a dense separation layer and optionally, a porous surface exchange layer are formed on a porous support from mixtures of (Ln1-xAx)wCr1-yByO3-δ and a doped zirconia. Preferred materials are (La0.8Sr0.2)0.95Cr0.7Fe0.3O3-δ for the porous fuel oxidation layer, (La0.8Sr0.2)0.95Cr0.5Fe0.5O3-δ for the dense separation layer, and (La0.8Sr0.2)0.95Cr0.3Fe0.7O3-δ for the porous surface exchange layer. Firing the said fuel activation and separation layers in nitrogen atmosphere unexpectedly allows the separation layer to sinter into a fully densified mass. |
| US09486734B2 |
Helium gas separator material and method for producing the same
The helium gas separator material includes a base portion and a gas separation portion joined to the base portion. The base portion is composed of a porous α-alumina material which has communication holes with an average diameter of 50 nm to 1,000 nm; the gas separation portion has a porous γ-alumina portion containing a Ni element and a silica membrane portion which is disposed on the inner wall of the communication holes in the porous portion; and the average diameter of pores surrounded and formed by the silica membrane portion is 0.27 nm to 0.60 nm. |
| US09486732B2 |
Adsorbent compositions
Adsorbent compositions useful in adsorption and separation processes are made using silicone-derived binding agents. The adsorbent compositions are made from crystallite aluminosilicate particles bound with silicone-derived binding agents, and optionally small amounts of a clay binder, to form agglomerated crystallite particles and are calcined to volatilize the organic components associated with the silicone-derived binding agents. The agglomerated crystallite particles have superior pore structures and superior crush strengths at low binder concentrations and exhibit enhanced N2 adsorption rates and capacities when used in air separation processes. |
| US09486731B2 |
Process for removing carbon dioxide from a gas stream
A process and equipment for removing carbon dioxide from a process gas (G), with a solid adsorbent and temperature swing adsorption, where the carbon dioxide is removed from process gas in either a first bed (B1) or a second bed (B2) of adsorbent, while the other bed is regenerated with heat furnished by the incoming hot process gas; the beds are contained in vessels (V1, V2) with heat exchange tubes or plates (T1, T2), so that the removal of CO2 takes place by contacting the process gas with the bed in the shell side, and regeneration of a bed takes place by passing the hot process gas inside the tubes. |
| US09486730B2 |
Oxygen separator and method of generating oxygen
The invention relates to an oxygen separation device (12, 14), comprising a gas inlet (29, 31) at a primary side for guiding a flow of oxygen comprising gas into the oxygen separation device (12, 14) and having a gas outlet (33, 35) at a secondary side for guiding a flow of oxygen enriched gas out of the oxygen separation device (12, 14), at least one oxygen separation area (20, 22) with an oxygen separation sorbent (16, 18) being capable of separating oxygen from an oxygen comprising gas by sorbing at least one component of the oxygen comprising gas apart from oxygen and being contaminatable by a contaminant, and a decontamination area (21, 23) with a decontamination material (17, 19) for decontaminating the oxygen comprising gas from at least one contaminant, wherein the oxygen separation area (20, 22) and the decontamination area (21, 23) are fluidly connected by a spacer (76, 78) comprising at least one diffusion reducing channel (80, 82), wherein the spacer (76, 78) has a value of diffusion reduction rR of rR>1. Such an oxygen separation device (12, 14) allows (10) provides significant advantages with respect to maintenance. The invention further relates to an oxygen separator (10) and to a method of generating oxygen from an oxygen comprising gas. |
| US09486727B2 |
Cyclone separator
A cyclone separator that collects entrained solid particles from a gas stream, comprising a cylindrical body, an inlet duct connected to the body, and a gas outlet tube connected to the body at its upper end. The ratio of the distance between the parallel to a face dropped from the tip of the cyclone separator and the closest point of the gas outlet tube to the internal diameter of the body is at least 0.1, as measured at the lower extremity of the gas outlet tube. The ratio of the inlet duct area, measured at the tip of the cyclone separator and perpendicularly to the face, to the cross-sectional area of the body, is between 0.24 and 0.32. The ratio of the height of the inlet duct to the width of the inlet duct at the tip of the cyclone separator does not exceed 4. |
| US09486725B2 |
System and method for filtering fuel within fuel tank
A system and method for filtering fuel within a fuel tank is disclosed. A dual fuel filtration system may include a first fuel filter connected to a fuel tank opening of the fuel tank, the first fuel filter removing a first type of contaminant from fuel entering the fuel tank opening to obtain a fuel cleared to a first level. The dual fuel filtration system may also include a second fuel filter positioned below the first fuel filter and in fluid communication with a fuel outlet nozzle, the second fuel filter filtering a second type of contaminant from the fuel cleared to the first level to obtain a fuel cleared to a second level passing through the fuel outlet nozzle. The dual fuel filtration system may additionally include an interface portion connecting the first fuel filter and the second fuel filter. |
| US09486722B2 |
Solid-liquid separation with a no-dry rotary pressure filter
A process for recovering a solid product from a solid/liquid mixture. The process includes filtering a solid/liquid mixture to form a filter cake in a first solid-liquid separation zone. The filter cake comprises the solid product. The first solid-liquid separation zone comprises a rotary pressure filter apparatus configured to apply a pressure differential across at least one filter member, and the filter cake is formed on the filter member. The filter cake is then washed with fluid in the rotary filter apparatus to form a wet filter cake. The wet filter cake is then transferred to a reslurrying zone. The wet filter is mixed with a reslurrying fluid to form a slurry, and the slurry is transferred to a second solid/liquid separation zone, where the solid product is separated from the slurry. |
| US09486721B2 |
Filter device, method for its operation and use thereof
A filter device for filtering a suspension comprises at least one filter for continuous creation of a filter cake containing particles from the suspension; at least one dispensing device configured to apply at least one first wash liquid to the filter cake created by the at least one filter; and at least one steaming unit configured to steam the filter cake using steam, wherein the at least one dispensing device is integrated into a first process chamber and the at least one steaming unit is integrated into a second process chamber separated from the first process chamber by at least one partition wall. The at least one first wash liquid and a second wash liquid used for creating the steam may have boiling temperatures differing by at least 5° C. |
| US09486714B1 |
Hurdle with counterweight
A hurdle with movable gate tubes that telescope upon uprights has an automatically movable counterweight inside each leg. Each counterweight is attached to two cables. The first cable runs from the leading end of the counterweight to a cable guide inside the leading end of each leg, then to a cable guide at the intersection of the leg and the upright, then to an actuating rod. The second cable runs from the trailing end of the counterweight to a cable guide at the intersection of the leg and the upright, then to a cable guide near the top of the upright, and then to the actuating rod. |
| US09486709B1 |
System and method for providing targeted recommendations to segments of users of a virtual space
Targeted recommendations may be provided to specific user segments. The users may be segmented on or more user parameters that facilitate targeted provision of recommendations to the individual segments of users. A recommendation may prompt a user to take a recommended action in the game. |
| US09486708B2 |
Apparatuses, methods and systems for an engagement-tracking game modifier
The APPARATUSES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR AN ONLINE BEHAVIOR MONITOR (“OBM”) transform user social-gaming behavioral pattern data via various OBM components into online social-gaming experience customizations. In one embodiment, the OBM may generate individual social-gaming activity timelines for a group of users within a geographical region using user online gaming pattern and social activity data. The OBM may calculate individual time-varying activity level graphs for the users, as well as an aggregate activity level graph. The OBM may identify an activity trough in the aggregate activity level graph, and an event in the geographical region corresponding to the activity level trough. Based on keywords corresponding to the event, the OBM may obtain product results from a product database. The OBM may identify a subset of the users whose individual time-varying activity level graphs include an activity level trough during the activity level trough in the aggregate activity level graph, and may provide an advertisement for a product from the product results for the identified subset of the users. |
| US09486706B2 |
Voice overlay
A video server is configured to provide streaming video to players of computer games over a computing network. The video server can provided video of different games to different players simultaneously. This is accomplished by rendering several video streams in parallel using a single GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The output of the GPU is provided to graphics processing pipelines that are each associated with a specific client/player and are dynamically allocated as needed. A client qualifier may be used to assure that only clients capable of presenting the streaming video to a player at a minimum level of quality receive the video stream. Video frames provided by the video server optionally include overlays added to the output of the GPU. These overlays can include voice data received from another game player. |
| US09486705B2 |
Exercise support device, program, exercise support system, and motion detection device
An exercise support device including an input which inputs player motion information from a reference position, and an instructing component which displays a motion evaluation mark on a screen, a motion instruction mark in a scrolling manner on the screen, a plurality of display patterns of a series of motion instruction marks in a distinguishable manner on the screen such that the display patterns include at least first and second display patterns, with the second display pattern having the motion instruction marks of the first display pattern and additional motion instruction marks, and instructs the player on a motion timing represented by the motion instruction mark so that the motion evaluation and instructions marks coincide. The exercise support device further includes an evaluating component which evaluates a player's motion based on a level of coincidence of the motion instruction and evaluation marks that correspond to the player's motion. |
| US09486699B2 |
Information processing system, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored therein information processing program, information processing apparatus, and information processing method
An information processing system includes an information processing unit configured to move a virtual camera in a virtual space within a predetermined movable range in response to a movement and/or a posture of a controller. The information processing unit changes a correspondence relation between the movement and/or the posture of the controller and a capturing direction and/or a viewing point position of the virtual camera after the movement of the virtual camera reaches a limit of the movable range due to the movement of the controller in a predetermined direction. |
| US09486698B2 |
Systems and methods for transmitting media associated with a measure of quality based on level of game play in an interactive video gaming environment
Systems and methods for incorporating online user generated media content (e.g., videos) into an interactive video gaming environment are provided. Media assets that are associated with different measures of quality generated by users are stored on a remote server. A player action is received by the remote server. A determination is made as to which one of the plurality of levels of the interactive video gaming environment corresponds to the action. One of the videos associated with one of the measures of quality is selected based on the determination of the level corresponding to the action. The selected video is transmitted to the player. |
| US09486697B2 |
Asynchronous persistent group bonus games with preserved game state data
A system, apparatus, and method for preserving game state data for an asynchronous persistent group bonus game may have a plurality of gaming machines associated with the asynchronous persistent group bonus game and at least one network server having at least one processor and at least one non-volatile memory. The processor may be configured to determine whether a bonus game session is triggered on any of the plurality of gaming machines; and if the bonus game session is triggered, display live game monitor activities, and periodically save the persistent bonus game state and other data on the at least one non-volatile memory. |
| US09486693B2 |
Sports data collection and presentation
A system of collecting and displaying statistical performance data of American football or rugby football tactical plays includes a) Optional ball tracking sensors b) data loggers worn by each player that include accelerometers and location sensors that provide data on duration of play, acceleration, speed, direction of movement, possession of ball, force of impacts c) a processor that collects and analyzes the data for each tactical play to determine i) the initial fine of scrimmage for each play, ii) the end of each play, iii) for each player one or more of duration of play, acceleration, speed, direction of movement, possession of ball, force of impacts, and iv) normalizing all the statistics so that all tactical plays and all individual player performances can be compared from the same start point d) display means to graphically display the statistics and combine the graphics with video images of the play and players. |
| US09486689B2 |
Golf practice mat modules and assembly
A golf practice mat assembly and a method for constructing a golf practice range is provided. The golf practice mat assembly comprising; a stance section with a first end, a second end, positioned opposite the first end, a front lengthwise side extending between the first end and the second end and a second lengthwise side extending between the first end and the second end; a strike section including a first side and an opposite side; a connection between the stance section and the strike section, the connection configured to securely and detachably connect the strike section to the stance section and the connection further configured to be angularly selectable and to connect the strike section at one of a plurality of possible angular orientations relative to the stance section. |
| US09486688B2 |
System and method for providing an improved golf swing
A system and method for improving a golf swing. The system includes a club lie angle calculator, a golf club grabber, and a propeller channel for creating and supporting a swing plane for a user equal to the lie angle of a given golf club. |
| US09486683B2 |
System and method for teaching batting skills
Device and methods for teaching batting skill are disclosed having front and rear foot pads and at least one release point. A stride pad may be included and aligned with the rear pad and a pitching location/source. The front rear pad provides for adjustment out of linear alignment with the rear pad and the stride pad to accommodate open and closed stances. The device admits to multiple position settings and variable stances, and the related methods will help teach baseball and softball players to adopt and use a correct and confident stance, stride and swing. |
| US09486679B2 |
Carbon fiber or fiberglass lacrosse head
A method of making a lacrosse head is provided. The method includes providing a lacrosse head design to a 3D printer, providing a first printing material to the 3D printer, the first printing material including carbon fiber or fiberglass, and printing the lacrosse head with the 3-D printer using the lacrosse head design and the printing material. |
| US09486675B1 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing sport balls
An apparatus for manufacturing a sport ball may include a first component having a first baseplate and a plurality of support structures extending from the first baseplate and a second component having a second baseplate and a plurality of welding dies extending from the second baseplate. The apparatus may be configured such that, when the first component is assembled with the second component, each of the plurality of welding dies extending from the second baseplate of the second component aligns with one of the support structures extending from the first baseplate of the first component. In addition, the apparatus may be further configured to compress edges of casing panels against one another between the welding dies and the support structures. Further, the second component may be configured to supply welding energy to edges of casing panels when the casing panels are compressed between the welding dies and the support structures. |
| US09486672B2 |
Process for designing rugged pattern on golf ball surface
A golf ball 2 has, on a surface thereof, a rugged pattern consisting of a land 10 and a large number of dimples 8. A method for designing the rugged pattern includes the steps of: (1) randomly arranging a large number of generating points on the surface of a phantom sphere; (2) assuming a large number of Voronoi regions on the surface of the phantom sphere based on the generating points; and (3) assigning a land to the vicinity of the contour of each Voronoi region and assigning a dimple to a portion of the surface of the phantom sphere other than the land. |
| US09486665B2 |
Rocking roller exerciser
An exercise machine including a rocker frame movably coupled with a roller assembly via a torsion resistance mechanism is described. The rocker frame may include at least one arcuate rail to provide floor support for a rocking motion of the rocker frame. One or more pedal control structures may be pivotally coupled with the rocker frame near each distal end of the arcuate rail to drive the rocking motion. The roller assembly may be configured to make a rolling motion when the rocker frame rocks. A torque force can be generated via the torsion resistance mechanism as a result of changes in relative positions between the rocker frame rocking and the roller assembly rolling. The force driving the rocking motion can be countered by the torque force to support exercising movements of a user exerting the force. |
| US09486664B2 |
Exercise device
An exercise device includes a pair of hollow tubular members. Each hollow tubular member includes an outer tube, and a pair of end plates that seal respective ends of the outer tube, such that an enclosed space is defined within the outer tube. Removable plugs allow flowable material to be admitted into the enclosed spaces. A bar connects to the pair of hollow tubular members and holds the hollow tubular members in a spaced-apart state. When the enclosed spaces are partially filled with flowable material, a “slosh effect” occurs that exercises certain muscles or muscle groups. |
| US09486663B2 |
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for improvement of physical fitness
The present application includes various embodiments of apparatuses, systems, kits, and methods for physical exercise of a user. Some embodiments, for example, include an apparatus comprising: a strap having a first end, a second end, a length between the first end and the second end, the strap having an elastic portion between and spaced apart from the first end and the second end; a first handle configured to be coupled to the strap on a first side of the elastic portion such that the first handle is spaced apart from the elastic portion; a second handle configured to be coupled to the strap on a second side of the elastic portion such that the second handle is spaced apart from the elastic portion; and one or more suspension members configured to be coupled (i) to the strap at a first point between the elastic portion and the first handle, and at a second point between the elastic portion and the second handle, and (ii) to be coupled to a supporting structure. |
| US09486661B2 |
Exercise swing
An exercise swing comprising: a seat; an axle; at least one swingable member having a first end attached to said seat and a second end connected via a pivot to said axle; and a resistance adjuster for varying the resistance of said pivot to back-and-forth swinging motion of the swingable member about the pivot, and the exercise swing arranged so as to allow the entire body of a user, with the user seated on the seat, to swing back-and-forth through an arcuate path. |
| US09486660B2 |
Flat row exercise machine
A flat row exercise machine is disclosed. The machine includes a base structure, a pair of front and rear vertical frame members fixed to the base structure and extending upwardly therefrom, and a horizontal member fixed between the pair of rear vertical frame members. The machine also includes a pair of levers having upper ends coupled pivotally to the horizontal member and each lever having a lower end configured to hold at least one removable weight or a tension band, where the pair of levers are configured to move independently of each other. A pair of arms extend outwardly from the lower ends of the pair of levers, where each arm is configured to be raised by a user such that the upper ends of the pair of levers pivot in place as the user moves a distal end of the pair of arms in an up and down motion. |
| US09486656B2 |
Fire suppression blanket
A blanket for fighting grass and scrub fires along a fire line includes a sheet of fire resistant material forming a lattice with multiple openings. The openings vary in size from larger openings along the sheet's front edge to smaller openings at the sheet's back edge. The lattice is preferably formed of woven fire resistant fiberglass strips coated in vermiculite. The sheet is preferably rectangular, flexible for rolling, and multiple sheets may be lined up along the fire line. To preserve the shape of the sheet, connectors may secure the woven strips together at points where the woven strips overlap. The sheet can be placed atop or near grass or scrub at risk of burning, arranged with the front edge toward the fire and the back edge away from the fire. Once the burning risk passes, the sheet or sheets may be removed and rolled up for storage or transport. |
| US09486651B2 |
MRI-guided HIFU marking to guide radiotherapy and other procedures
The present disclosure provides for effective systems and methods for increasing target tissue conspicuity within a particular anatomy of a particular patient. In an exemplary embodiment, a system associated with the present disclosure includes: (a) a MRI-guided HIFU system for generating ablation markings on a target tissue region, the MRI-guided HIFU system including a transducer for delivering HIFU to the target tissue region, the delivered HIFU generating the ablation markings on the target tissue and an MRI imaging system adapted to generate a three dimensional image of the target tissue region during HIFU delivery for guiding the delivery of the HIFU to the target tissue region; (b) a radiotherapy delivery system for delivering radiotherapy treatment to the target tissue region; and (c) a CT imaging system operable within the radiotherapy delivery system for generating a three dimensional image of the target tissue region. The markings generated on the target tissue region by the MRI-guided HIFU are visible in the image generated by the CT imaging system. The image generated by the CT imaging system guides the location of the radiotherapy treatment delivered to the target tissue region. |
| US09486648B2 |
Positioning system for radiotherapy treatment
An apparatus for placement of an optical marker for radiotherapy onto a surface, wherein the optical marker has a reflective element positioned on a body having an outline and shaped and configured such that the reflective element is in a predetermined position relative to the outline of the body, the apparatus comprising a sheet of material having a hole therethrough which is shaped and configured to conform to the outline of the body and which has an upper surface with markings thereon configured for aligning with an image projected onto the surface on which the optical marker is to be placed. |
| US09486644B2 |
Method and system for dose determination of radiation therapy
Methods for performing dose determination and cost function gradients in a radiation therapy are disclosed, which include: discretizing a volume-of-interest (VOI) into a set of voxels; identifying a set of beamlets which deposit dose contributions of radiation to the VOI, and each beamlet has a weight factor; transforming the dose contributions into a first domain, and transforming the weight factors into a second domain orthogonal to the first domain; calculate the local derivatives of a cost function of dose and cost function gradients with respect to the weights of the beamlets. |
| US09486643B2 |
Methods, systems and computer readable storage media storing instructions for image-guided treatment planning and assessment
Methods, systems and computer-readable storage media relate to image-guided treatment planning and treatment assessment. The methods, systems, and the computer-readable storage medias according to embodiments can analyze treatment response and can determine an accurate, outcome-based response assessment of treatment (e.g., radiation treatment). The methods may include a method for determining a treatment response. The method may include registering at least a first image data and a second image data of a subject, the first image data corresponding to a first time point, the second image data corresponding to a second time point, the first time point and the second time point being different with respect to a treatment session and/or treatment stage. The method may include processing the registered image to determine a treatment response. The registering may be based on deformable registration. |
| US09486642B2 |
Brachytherapy method of treating skin tumors using a tailor-made radioactive source
Embodiments of the invention relate to a method of treating a cancerous or non-cancerous skin lesion of a subject, e.g. a human patient, by epidermal radioisotope therapy, a specialized type of brachytherapy. The method can include defining and marking an area of skin to be treated; covering the area with a protective layer, e.g. a protective film or foil; applying a tailor-made radioactive source by applying a layer of a radioactive source material on the protective layer, such that the area is covered by the material while any area not to be treated is spared; and removing the radioactive source after a predetermined time period of irradiation. |
| US09486641B2 |
Incorporating an optical waveguide into a neural interface
An optical waveguide integrated into a multielectrode array (MEA) neural interface includes a device body, at least one electrode in the device body, at least one electrically conducting lead coupled to the at least one electrode, at least one optical channel in the device body, and waveguide material in the at least one optical channel. The fabrication of a neural interface device includes the steps of providing a device body, providing at least one electrode in the device body, providing at least one electrically conducting lead coupled to the at least one electrode, providing at least one optical channel in the device body, and providing a waveguide material in the at least one optical channel. |
| US09486637B2 |
Method and apparatus for accurate separation of supraventricular tachycardia from ventricular tachycardia during posture changes
An implantable medical device system includes an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) for detecting and treating ventricular tachycardia (VT). The ICD includes a sensing module for sensing a cardiac signal from selected cardiac signal sensing vectors. A control module generates morphology templates of the cardiac signals for multiple patient postures for each of the available sensing vectors. A cardiac signal received during an unknown cardiac rhythm is compared to the morphology templates without determining a current posture of the patient. The unknown cardiac rhythm is detected and classified as supraventricular tachycardia in response to the cardiac signal matching at least one of the morphology templates. |
| US09486635B2 |
Medical device including setup option reporting
A medical device for use with a patient is described. The medical device includes a component for administering a treatment to the patient or receiving data of the patient. The component is configured to operate according to an internal setting. The medical device also includes a user interface through which a user can modify the internal setting, as well as a settings signature generator for generating a settings signature that represents a present state of the internal setting. A gateway is also provided for communicating a version of the settings signature out of the medical device. |
| US09486634B2 |
Stimulation of the forno-dorso-commissure (FDC) for seizure suppression and memory improvement
Example apparatus and methods cause activation of target neural tissue through electrical stimulation of a connected white matter tract to reduce the hyper-excitability of the target neural tissue and thus reduce seizures while preserving memory in humans. Example apparatus and methods apply low frequency (e.g., <10 HZ) electrical stimulation to the forno-dorso-commissure (FDC), detect an electrical signal generated in an area connected to, innervated by, or that can be activated by the FDC in response to the stimulation, and reconfigure the stimulation based on the detected signal and a desired therapeutic effect. The stimulation may be reconfigured to produce an electrical stimulation waveform that will produce the desired therapeutic effect. The desired therapeutic effect may be, for example, reducing hyper-excitability of neural tissue in a target area, reducing hippocampal spikes, reducing seizure odds, or improving recall. |
| US09486632B2 |
Pain management
Data characterizing a signal of electrical activity sensed in a patient can be received using at least one data processor. A pain signature associated with peripheral nerve damage can be detected using the received data. A treatment protocol can be determined in response to the detected pain signature. The treatment protocol can include providing at least one electrical signal to the patient comprising one or more electrical pulses being at least about 150 Hz, between about 1 and about 3 volts, between about 1 and about 3 milliampere, and between about 0.25 and about 1 second in duration. The treatment protocol to be delivered to a sensory thalamus contained within the patient via an electrical lead and electrode implantable within the sensory thalamus. The treatment protocol can be caused to be initiated. |
| US09486626B2 |
Passive electric field focus system for in vivo and in vitro applications
The present invention provides a system and method of directing, focusing, or concentrating electrical charges within a defined electric field so that these charges can be used to exert forces on cells and tissues in vivo and/or cell cultures in vitro. The present invention reduces and/or eliminates the damage at a target site that would normally be caused by an electrode that acts as a current source or sink to accomplish the same task. |
| US09486625B2 |
Method for treating benign prostate hyperplasia
A method and apparatus for treating a condition in a patient such as BPH, irretractable infection, cyst, fibroid, or any mass such as prostate or breast cancer, skin cancer, melanoma, or any other soft tissue cancerous or benign mass, employs a unique, three-dimensional software-controlled electronic amplifier array using arbitrary waveforms that dynamically and proportionally steer electrical currents by using two or more current vector paths, sequentially or simultaneously, through a defined area containing electrically-conductive ionic solutions so as to obtain 100% thermal heating or hyperthermia through the defined area. The condition is treated or a mass is destroyed with a minimally-invasive treatment which requires no radiation or chemotherapy which could be harmful to the patient. |
| US09486624B2 |
Detection of implantable lead failures by differential EGM analysis
A method and system for the diagnosis of anomalies in a lead attached to an implantable medical device, such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), including an insulation breach resulting in a short circuit of the high-voltage shock pulse. Determination that the defibrillation pathway is shorted may be made by initial analysis of a Reference EGM and Diagnostic EGM and subsequent analysis of Differential Diagnostic EGMs. Upon determining if a specific defibrillation pathway is shorted, the nonessential defibrillation electrode of that pathway may be excluded from the defibrillation circuit, delivering defibrillation current only between functioning defibrillation electrodes. Alternatively, the ICD system can confirm the presence of a lead anomaly with one or more alternative diagnostic approaches. Patient and remote-monitoring alerts may be initiated. |
| US09486620B2 |
Systems and methods for making and using paddle lead assemblies for electrical stimulation systems
A paddle lead assembly for providing electrical stimulation of patient tissue includes a paddle body. The paddle body includes four columns of electrodes, each column including at least one electrode. The columns include two outer columns flanking two inner columns. The paddle lead assembly further includes a plurality of lead bodies coupled to the paddle body. At least one terminal is disposed on each of the plurality of lead bodies. A plurality of conductive wires couple each of the electrodes to at least one of the plurality of terminals. |
| US09486618B2 |
Electrode system for electrical stimulation
A system for electrically stimulating a user comprising: a first housing portion defining an array of openings; an array of permeable bodies with portions exposed through the array of openings and wetted with a solution that facilitates electrical coupling between the system and a body region of the user, wherein each permeable body has a cavity at a proximal portion and a distal portion and is configured to transmit the solution to the body region of the user; a substrate region defining an array of protrusions configured to support the array of permeable bodies and composed of a conductive polymer; and a set of conductors in communication with the substrate region and including a first conductor that provides a first subset of the array of permeable bodies with a first polarity and a second conductor that provides a second subset of the array of permeable bodies with a second polarity. |
| US09486615B2 |
Microdermabrasion apparatus and method
According to some embodiments, a system for treating skin includes a handpiece assembly comprising a tip and a main body portion, the main body portion comprising an interior cavity and at least one canister configured to store at least one of a treatment material and a waste material. The treatment material and/or the waste material is in fluid communication with the tip. |
| US09486606B2 |
Swaged braided catheter and method of fabrication
A swaged braided catheter for use in various medical procedures is provided. The swaged braided catheter includes a tubular braid formed from a plurality of braided wire members. A plurality of intersections is formed by the braided wire members. The intersections are compressed defining a plurality of flattened regions along the tubular braid. The intersections have a first thickness before being compressed and a reduced second thickness after being compressed. The flattened regions with the reduced second thickness provide the swaged braided catheter with a reduced cross-sectional profile, and reduced catheter recoil. |
| US09486605B2 |
Introducer sheath with braided filament securement mechanism
A tubular body for a medical device for insertion within a body passageway of a patient. The tubular body includes a tubular inner liner. A braided member is disposed along an outer surface of the liner. The braided member includes intersecting filaments and cells defined by the filaments. A securement mechanism, such as radiopaque solder, is disposed along a circumferential region of the braided member. The securement mechanism is attached to portions of the filaments and spans the cells that correspond to the circumferential region to inhibit relative movement of filament ends. An outer surface of the securement mechanism is sized to extend radially outward to a position up to an outer surface of the braided member to not add to the overall wall thickness of the tubular body. An outer jacket is positioned longitudinally around the braided member and connected to the inner liner. |
| US09486604B2 |
Packaging and preparation tray for a delivery system
A tray and packaging system for a prosthetic valve delivery system permits conversion from a storage and/or shipping configuration to a set up and preparation configuration. In a first configuration, a delivery system can be supported by first and second main trays with the elongate catheter of the delivery system arranged to extend linearly from the first main tray to the second main tray, and in a second configuration, the delivery system can be supported by the first and second main trays with the elongate catheter of the delivery system turned back in a U-shaped manner with the deployment portion of the delivery system positioned to the side of the control handle portion of the delivery system. |
| US09486603B2 |
Intermittent urinary catheter
A catheter has an entrance opening defined by the first end of a catheter body and non-circular inner surface in cross section. The entrance opening intersects a longitudinal axis extending longitudinally through the center of a lumen adapted to drain urine from a bladder. The non-circular inner surface can have dimples, channels, or grooves, all of which decrease frictional fluid forces against the inner surface as the urine drains. The catheter is free of any eyelets formed in the side wall of the catheter body. The catheter further includes a plurality of distinct longitudinally extending convex outer surfaces and may have an enlarged head. |
| US09486602B2 |
Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve and method of ventilating a patient using the same
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a mask for achieving positive pressure mechanical ventilation (inclusive of CPAP, ventilator support, critical care ventilation, emergency applications), and a method for a operating a ventilation system including such mask. The mask of the present invention includes a piloted exhalation valve that is used to achieve the target pressures/flows to the patient. The pilot for the valve may be pneumatic and driven from the gas supply tubing from the ventilator. The pilot may also be a preset pressure derived in the mask, a separate pneumatic line from the ventilator, or an electro-mechanical control. Additionally, the valve can be implemented with a diaphragm or with a flapper. |
| US09486601B2 |
Ports cap for mask assembly
A ports cap for a mask assembly includes two closure portions adapted to seal respective ports of the mask assembly, a bridge piece that joins the two closure portions, and two gripping tabs extending outwardly from respective closure portions. Each gripping tab includes one or more ribs on at least one side thereof. |
| US09486599B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlled delivery of a breathing gas to the respiratory tracts of a user
An apparatus for controlled delivery of a flow of breathing gas to the respiratory tracts of a user includes a blower unit adapted to provide a gas flow, a nasal cannula with first and second outlets, and first and second gas paths connecting the blower unit to the first and second outlets, respectively. The Characteristics of the gas flow through each outlet can be controlled, sensed and/or adjusted independently. |
| US09486597B2 |
Aerosol delivery mask
The present invention provides a mask for sealing an area around a patient's mouth and nose for delivery of an aerosol. The mask includes a mask body having an opening for reception of the aerosol and a mask seal configured to engage a patient's face around the nose and mouth. An adapter is arranged to be removably attached to the mask body for removably coupling the mask body to an aerosol delivery device. |
| US09486589B2 |
Automated method for simultaneous bubble detection and expulsion
A method and apparatus for detecting and removing air from a syringe containing a volume of liquid and a volume of gas is described. The method includes moving a piston in the syringe to expel gas through an orifice of the syringe, sensing a movement of the piston in the syringe, and determining when the volume of gas is expelled from the syringe based on a change in the sensed movement. Moving the piston may include applying oscillating force to the piston using an electromagnetic actuator, and displacement and speed of the piston during each oscillation may be sensed. Determining when the volume of gas is expelled may be based on a change in the sensed movement of the piston during one or more oscillations of the piston or based on a comparison to a given reference value. |
| US09486582B2 |
Automatic injection device with temporizing means
The present invention relates to an injection device including a container, intended for receiving a product and provided with an injection needle and a housing receiving the container. The container is movable relative to the housing between an initial position, an insertion position, and a final position. A collapsible chamber is defined within the housing outside of the container. The chamber is collapsible with the container in the insertion position. The chamber is at least partially defined by a proximal wall and a seal element, wherein, with the container in the initial position, the proximal wall is spaced proximally from the seal element, wherein, with the container in the insertion position, the proximal wall is caused to engage the seal element, and, wherein, with the proximal wall engaging the seal element, the container is caused to move from the insertion position to the final position. |
| US09486578B2 |
Method and system for tuning a closed-loop controller for an artificial pancreas
Described and illustrated is a system for management of diabetes that includes an infusion pump, glucose sensor and controller with a method programmed into the controller. The infusion pump is configured to deliver insulin to a subject. The glucose sensor is configured to sense glucose levels in the subject and provide output signals representative of the glucose levels in the subject. The controller is programmed receives signals from at least one of the glucose sensor and the pump and configured to issue signals to the pump to deliver an amount of insulin determined by a feedback controller that utilizes a model predictive control of the subject based on desired glucose levels, insulin amount delivered and measured glucose levels of the subject. The controller is also configured to deliver insulin using a tuning factor based on either one of an omission index module or a calibration index module. |
| US09486575B2 |
Infusion device
The disclosures made herein relate to an infusion device specifically adapted for syringe injections. In one embodiment of the disclosures made herein, an infusion device comprises a body including an accessible surface having a single inlet port therein, an engagement surface having a single outlet port therein, a medication delivery channel extending between the single inlet port and the single outlet port, and an identification feature on the accessible surface of the body adjacent to the single inlet port. The single inlet port of the medication delivery channel is tapered thereby forming a funnel-shaped entry into the medication delivery channel. A cannula is coupled to the body at the single outlet port and is adapted for receiving medication from the single outlet port and transmitting the medication therethrough. |
| US09486574B2 |
Modular skin-adherable system for medical fluid delivery
Disclosed is a portable therapeutic fluid dispensing device. The fluid dispensing device includes a reusable part (100) comprising a reusable part housing including at least a controller and a first portion (186) of a driving mechanism, and a disposable part (200) comprising a disposable part housing including at least a reservoir (220) to retain therapeutic fluid, an outlet port to which the therapeutic fluid is dispensed, a fluid conduit providing fluid communication between the reservoir and the outlet port, and a second portion (112) of the driving mechanism. At least a portion of the disposable part housing defines at least a portion of the reservoir. Also, the second portion of the driving mechanism is mechanically couplable to the first portion of the driving mechanism upon connection of the disposable part to the reusable part. |
| US09486572B2 |
Infusion pump assembly
An infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw. |
| US09486566B2 |
Purge-free miniature rotary pump
Methods and systems are provided for the circulation of blood using a purge-free miniature pump. In one embodiment, a pump is provided that may comprise a housing including a rotor and a stator within a drive unit. In this embodiment, the pump may establish a primary blood flow through the space between the drive unit and the housing and a secondary blood flow between the rotor and stator. In another embodiment, a pump establishes a primary blood flow outside the housing and a secondary blood flow between the rotor and stator. In yet another embodiment, a method is provided for introducing the pump into the body and circulating blood using the pump. |
| US09486562B2 |
Suction device for surgical instruments
A suction device is shown and described. The suction device includes a body, an input port configured to receive a flow of matter, a suction port, and a suction lumen that couples the suction port to the input port. In some embodiments the suction device is configured to couple with a surgical instrument for use in a surgical procedure. |
| US09486561B2 |
Suction apparatus with a flushable drainage line
A suction apparatus for aspirating a fluid from a human or animal body by negative pressure comprises a drainage connection for a drainage line in order to remove the fluid from the body. A vacuum source generates a negative pressure at the drainage connection. A fluid connection container collects the sucked-up fluid. The drainage line can be flushed with air by an auxiliary connection and an auxiliary line connected to the latter. In order to reduce the entraining of pathogens, a sterilizing cell is provided. The supplied air is treated in the latter in such a manner that pathogens contained in the air are modified and thereby rendered harmless. |
| US09486556B2 |
Consistent calcium content bone allograft systems and methods
Embodiments of the present invention provides bone graft compositions, and methods for their use and manufacture. A bone graft composition may include a first amount of non-demineralized cancellous bone. The composition may further include a second amount of demineralized cancellous bone. The composition may also include a third amount of demineralized cortical bone. The non-demineralized cancellous bone, the demineralized cancellous bone, and the demineralized cortical bone may be obtained from the same cadaveric donor. |
| US09486555B2 |
Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (poss)-based bioactive hybrid glass as a scaffold for hard tissue engineering
A hybrid bioactive glass comprising a plurality of POSS-cages each having at least one flexible arm radiating from an Si atom of the POSS-cage, each POSS-cage being covalently linked to another POSS-cage through an Si—O—Si linkage between two flexible arms. A method of forming a hybrid bioactive glass comprising the steps of providing a plurality of POSS-cages, each having at least one reactive flexible arm radiating from an Si atom detailed by —X—Si[R1,R2,R3], wherein X is an arm extension located between the Si—O—Si linkage and an Si atom of the POSS-cage, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are also the same or different, and at least one of the R1, R2 and R3 is an alkoxide, and reacting the plurality of POSS-cages through a sol-gel method to form a covalently-linked network and incorporating Ca+2 ions therein, the sol-gel process comprising hydrolysis and polycondensation reactions of the plurality of POSS-cages. |
| US09486554B2 |
Wound care compositions comprising borate (B2O3) glass-based particles
Glass-based angiogenic particles of a biocompatible material which comprises 40 to about 80 wt% borate (B2O3) intermixed into a carrier which is an ointment, cream, or surgical glue. |
| US09486553B2 |
Method
A method of manufacturing a wound dressing or the like comprises the steps of a) providing a layer of substrate material; b) extruding a curable hydrophobic gel precursor composition onto that substrate material via one or more mobile applicators; and c) causing or allowing the hydrophobic gel precursor composition to cure to form a hydrophobic gel. Wound dressings or the like that can be manufactured by such a method comprise a layer of substrate material, the wound facing surface of which carries bands of hydrophobic gel that are intermingled in a lattice-like arrangement. |
| US09486552B1 |
Air treatment appliance
An air treatment appliance is provided which includes an appliance housing and a removable cartridge received therein. The removable cartridge contains a liquid compound to be aerosolized and has a cartridge outlet through which the aerosolized compound is discharged during operation. A pump is provided to supply air to the removable cartridge to generate the aerosolized compound from the liquid compound contained in the removable cartridge, and a controller is provided for controlling the pump to supply the air to the removable cartridge to generate and discharge the aerosolized compound from the appliance. In some instances, the appliance housing includes a base, a cover, and an inner sub-housing coupled to the base to collectively define a passageway with an air outlet positioned to discharge a flow of air across a path of the aerosolized compound discharged from the cartridge outlet during operation. |
| US09486551B2 |
Air freshener system
An air freshener system includes a roll paper assembly and an air freshener assembly coupled with the roll paper assembly. The air freshener assembly includes an integrated air freshener element in the form of a single, continuous gel component. |
| US09486544B2 |
Manganese chelates and their use as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
The present invention relates to manganese(II). The invention also relates to manganese(II) chelates attached to other molecules and their use as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). |
| US09486542B2 |
Compositions and methods for in vivo evaluation of bioluminescence
Compositions and methods are described for normalizing a bioluminescent signal in a live animal. |
| US09486540B2 |
Methods for delivery to the central nervous system of nucleic acid nanoparticles to treat central nervous system disorders
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for the treatment of diseases of the CNS with nucleic acid nanoparticles. Compositions are also disclosed herein that utilize nucleic acid nanoparticles to treat conditions such as Parkinson's Disease. Furthermore, methods of intranasally administering the compacted nucleic acid nanoparticles for therapeutic purposes in the brain are disclosed. |
| US09486535B2 |
Methods of making and using nanostructures
The invention provides methods for attaching drugs, dyes or radiolabels to bis-MTX. This method can be used to prepare bis-MTX analogs that can be used to deliver agents, such as nanoparticles, drugs, dyes or radiolabels, to cells. |
| US09486533B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions for high-capacity targeted delivery
Provided herein are aptamers and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same. In some embodiments, the aptamer selectively binds a protein of interest such as an extracellular receptor protein of interest (e.g., a cancer cell extracellular receptor protein, which may be differentially expressed in some embodiments). In some embodiments, the aptamer is directly linked by covalent bonding (e.g., via a geminal diamine linkage) to from 2 to 10 toxin compounds. Also provided herein is a method of selecting an aptamer that specifically binds to a protein expressed by a cell of interest, wherein in some embodiments the aptamer comprises at least one binding site for one or more active compounds. In some embodiments, primer regions flanking the variable region of the aptamers in the pool contains from 1 to 10 mismatches with respect to said forward or reverse primer. |
| US09486531B2 |
Dehydrated hydrogel inclusion complex of a bioactive agent with flowable drug delivery system
The invention provides a controlled release biodegradable polymer formulation adapted for administering bioactive agents such as therapeutic proteins to a patient through implantation of a bolus that forms a depot within the patient's body tissues. The formulation includes a dehydrated inclusion complex of the bioactive agent within a hydrogel, wherein the hydrogel can comprise a polymerized polyalkyleneglycolyl diacrylate, and, optionally, polyalkyleneglycolyl monoacrylates, including methacrylates. Alternatively, the hydrogel can comprise hyaluronic acid, chitosan, agarose, polyvinylacetate, polyvinylpyrrolide, or polyvinylalcohol nanoparticles. The bioactive agent can be a macromolecular material, such as a protein. A method of forming the inventive formulation is also provided, as well as a method for using the formulation in the treatment of a malcondition in a patient in need thereof. |
| US09486528B2 |
Stable pharmaceutical formulation for oral administration comprising levocetirizine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and montelukast or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical formulation for oral administration for preventing or treating allergic rhinitis or asthma, which comprises: (a) a first particle part comprising levocetirizine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and an organic acid; and (b) a second particle part comprising montelukast or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The pharmaceutical formulation according to the present invention comprises an organic acid as a stabilizing agent, which can effectively inhibit the production of levocetirizine and montelukast related substances, and thus, show good stability. |
| US09486527B2 |
Composition for sustained drug delivery comprising geopolymeric binder
The present invention relates to a sustained release medical composition comprising an active pharmaceutical ingredient and a geopolymeric binder. Preferably the active pharmaceutical ingredient is combined with the geopolymeric binder during the formation of that binder. |
| US09486524B2 |
Composition for eliciting a specific CTL response, comprising a lympho-ablative compound and a molecule that contains antigenic sequences and targets professional antigen presenting cells
The present invention relates to a composition for eliciting a specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against T cell epitopes in a mammal, which comprises a compound provoking lymphocytopenia, a molecule having selective affinity for professional antigen presenting cells (APC), wherein said molecule is associated to said T cell epitope, and optionally, a pharmaceutical acceptable carrier. Advantageously, the composition further contains an adjuvant. Said composition may be used in anti-infections and anti-cancer therapies. |
| US09486523B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating and preventing Staphylococcus aureus infections
Antibodies having Fab regions that specifically bind to Staphylococcus aureus protein A are capable of mediating opsinization of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria despite their expression of antibody-neutralizing protein A. These antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof can be used in methods of treating and/or preventing Staphylococcus aureus infections. |
| US09486511B2 |
Using pomegranate extracts for increasing prostate specific antigen doubling time
A method of increasing a prostate specific antigen (PSA) doubling time in treating a patient. A subject with rising serum PSA is selected. A composition is administered to the subject comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a pomegranate extract comprising a higher content of high molecular weight polyphenol compared to pomegranate juice from arils. The therapeutically effective amount increases a prostate specific antigen doubling time. The pomegranate extract is formed from an insoluble byproduct component obtained by placing pomegranate solids in an aqueous solution, heating the aqueous solution to between about 60° F. to about 210° F., adding at least one enzyme to the aqueous solution, and removing residual insoluble solid materials from the aqueous solution. |
| US09486509B2 |
Compositions and methods for preparing a subject for organ or non-organ implantation
Embodiments of the present invention illustrate methods of preventing transplantation rejection. In certain embodiments, a subject in need of an organ or non-organ transplantation can be pretreated with an AAT composition to reduce the incidence of transplantion rejection in the subject. Other embodiments include treating a subject with a composition including AAT before, during or after plastic surgery. |
| US09486508B2 |
Blood substitute composition and method of use
The present disclosure provides oxygen-carrying nanoparticles, methods of making the nanoparticles, and methods of using the nanoparticles to carry oxygen in blood. |
| US09486506B2 |
Glucagon analogues
The present invention relates to novel glucagon peptides, to the use of said glucagon peptides in therapy, to methods of treatment comprising administration of said glucagon peptides to patients in need thereof, and to the use of said glucagon peptides in the manufacture of medicaments. The glucagon peptides of the present invention are of particular interest in relation to the treatment of hyperglycemia, diabetes and obesity, as well as a variety of diseases or conditions associated with hyperglycemia, diabetes and obesity. |
| US09486503B2 |
Medicinal agent for suppressing malignant tumor metastasis
A medicinal composition for suppressing or preventing the metastasis of a malignant tumor, the composition comprising, as an active ingredient, at least one kind of vasoprotective agent selected from the following (i) to (iv): (i) angiotensin II receptor antagonist, (ii) HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, (iii) ghrelin or its derivative, and (iv) adrenomedullin or its derivative; or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof. |
| US09486493B2 |
Use of a peptide and an analgesic pharmaceutical agent
Inflammation caused by disease states such as rheumatism, gout, neurodegeneration and tumours result in the increased effectiveness of the opioid peptide biphalin or its analogues, due likely to the increased permeability of the “blood-brain barrier”, due to which it becomes possible to use the opioid peptide to produce a new analgesic for use during inflammation caused by rheumatism, gout, neurodegeneration, post-surgical or post-accidental trauma or tumours. |
| US09486492B2 |
Compositions including triciribine and bortezomib and derivatives thereof and methods of use thereof
This application relates to combination therapies including triciribine and related compounds and bortezomib and derivatives thereof analogs and compositions with reduced toxicity for the treatment and prevention of tumors, cancer, and other disorders associated with abnormal cell proliferation. |
| US09486486B2 |
Bacterium and extracts of said bacterium and the use of same in therapy
The present invention relates to a novel bacterial strain isolated and characterized from groundwater. The invention also relates to bacterial extracts and to the therapeutic use of same, notably in the context of the treatment of inflammations. |
| US09486482B2 |
Herbal composition for treating male sexual dysfunction
Disclosed herein is synergistic herbal composition comprising extracts of herbal ingredients of Tribulus terrestris, Withania somnifera, Curculigo orchioides, Mucuna pruriens, Asparagus adscendens, Asteracantha longifolia, Asphaltum, and optionally the extracts of Piper longum and Anacyclus pyrethrum for the treatment of disorders associated with Male Sexual Dysfunction. |
| US09486476B2 |
Fast acting joint relief formulations
The instant invention provides a method and composition for treating or preventing osteoarthritis, joint effusion, joint inflammation and pain, synovitis, lameness, post operative arthroscopic surgery, deterioration of proper joint function including joint mobility, the reduction or inhibition of metabolic activity of chondrocytes, the activity of enzymes that degrade cartilage, said method comprising administering effective amounts of Boswellia Serrata, effective amounts of freeze dried green lipped mussle, effective amounts of white willow bark extract containing salicin, effective amounts of angelica root, effective amounts of glucosamine and salts thereof, effective amounts of chondroitin and salts thereof and effective amounts of omega 3 fatty acids. |
| US09486475B2 |
PPS for the prevention of potential adverse effects caused by CD3 specific binding domains
The present invention relates to a pentosanpolysulfate (PPS) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for use in the amelioration, treatment, or prevention of adverse neurological events caused by administering an antibody or fragment thereof comprising a CD3 binding domain, including a CD19 x CD3 bispecific single chain antibody, such as blinatumomab. PPS is a semi-synthetically produced heparin-like macromolecular carbohydrate derivative, which chemically and structurally resembles glycosaminoglycans. Kits comprising a PPS, an antibody or fragment thereof comprising a CD3 binding domain, and instructions for administration, which indicate that the PPS is to be employed for the amelioration, treatment or prevention of adverse neurological events caused by administering the antibody or fragment thereof comprising said CD3 binding domain, are also disclosed. |
| US09486474B2 |
Interstitial therapy for immediate symptom relief and chronic therapy in interstitial cystitis
The present invention relates to a disorder of the lower urinary tract, and in particular, reducing the symptoms (including treatment) of interstitial cystitis in vivo. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to treatment formulations and methods for reducing interstitial cystitis in patients. |
| US09486472B2 |
Methods for modulating neuronal responses
Methods and compositions for treating neurological damage or dysfunction are described, including methods implemented by administration of peptide inhibitors of AMPA receptor endocytosis. |
| US09486470B2 |
Compositions including triciribine and one or more platinum compounds and methods of use thereof
This application encompasses combination therapies including triciribine and related compounds and one or more platinum compounds and compositions with reduced toxicity for the treatment and prevention of tumors, cancer, and other disorders associated with abnormal cell proliferation. |
| US09486469B2 |
STAT5a and its functional tumor suppressor analogs for treatment of malignancies expressing NPM/ALK and other oncogenic kinases
The invention provides methods of inhibiting epigenetic gene silencing in a cell expressing NPM/ALK or decreasing NPM/ALK content in a cell, by contacting a cell with an agent capable of increasing the concentration of Stat5a protein or its functional analog. Further, the invention provides a method of treating malignancies expressing oncogenic kinase by administering to a patient affected with a malignancy an agent capable of increasing the concentration of Stat5a protein or its epigenetically silenced functional tumor suppressor analog in a malignant cell. Finally, it provides a method to diagnose malignancy and monitor patient's response to therapy by analysis of the degree of DNA methylation of the gene encoding for Stat5a or its analog, their mRNA, or protein. |
| US09486458B2 |
Enzymatic process for obtaining 17 alpha-monoesters of cortexolone and/or its 9,11-dehydroderivatives
The present invention refers to a new enzymatic process for obtaining 17α-monoesters of cortexolone and/or its 9,11-dehydroderivatives starting from the corresponding 17α,21-diesters which comprises an enzymatic alcoholysis reaction. Furthermore, the present invention refers to new crystalline forms of cortexolone-17α-propionate and 9,11-dehydro-cortexolone 17α-butanoate. |
| US09486454B2 |
Hydrazaline hydrochloride pellets and method of preparation
Embodiments of a hydrazaline hydrochloride composition for treatment of hypertension in humans each provide sustained release of hydralazine hydrochloride administered in the form of pellets, granules and tablets. Methods of preparation are disclosed. |
| US09486453B2 |
Composition and method for treatment of depression and psychosis in humans
Compositions and methods for the treatment of depression and psychoses in humans are disclosed. More particularly, the invention is directed to formulations containing antipsychotic and/or antidepressant medications and also containing an NMDAR antagonist. The present Invention Is also directed to methods tor the treatment of humans suffering from depression and other psychoses, including, schizophrenia, by administration of the inventive compositions in antidepressant and/or antipsychotic effective amounts. |
| US09486452B2 |
Product and method for treating diarrhea
A method of treating diarrhea in a patient includes administering an H1 receptor antagonist and an H2 receptor antagonist to the patient. |
| US09486451B2 |
Abuse resistant pharmaceutical compositions
The present invention relates to a composition comprising pharmaceutical active ingredients which are susceptible to, or have potential for, abuse. The invention provides an oral pharmaceutical composition comprising a first population of beads and a second population of beads. The first bead population comprises a pharmaceutically active ingredient susceptible to, or having the potential for, abuse. The second bead population comprises a gelling agent and a coating substantially surrounding the gelling agent, but containing no pharmaceutically active ingredient. The first bead population and the second bead population are physically separable, but visually indistinguishable to the naked eye. Upon ingress of water into the second population of beads, the gelling agent is caused to swell forming a viscous mass inhibiting or preventing the extraction of the active ingredient. |
| US09486448B2 |
Pyrrolidine derived beta 3 adrenergic receptor agonists
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and method of using the same in the treatment or prevention of diseases mediated by the activation of β3-adrenoceptor. |
| US09486445B2 |
Combination therapy for proliferative disorders
Treatment of proliferative diseases with a combination of a b-Raf inhibitor and MDM2 inhibitor. |
| US09486443B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating hypertriglyceridemia or hypertriglyceridemia-associated diseases
The present invention is a method for treating hyperlipidemia comprising (4S,5R)-5-[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-3-({2-[4-fluoro-2-methoxy-5-(propan-2-yl)phenyl]-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl}methyl)-4-methyl-1,3-oxazolidin-2-one or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt and amlodipine or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt at a synergistic ratio of about 4:1. |
| US09486441B2 |
Compounds, compositions and methods for making the same
The present invention provides compounds and/or compositions that modulate PP2A methylation and/or activity and methods for preparing the same, which are useful for modulating the demethylation of PP2A, modulating the methylation of PP2A and/or modulating the activity of PP2A. |
| US09486439B2 |
Use of NK-1 receptor antagonist serlopitant in pruritus
The invention relates to methods for treating pruritus with NK-1 receptor antagonists such as serlopitant. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising NK-1 receptor antagonists such as serlopitant. In addition, the invention encompasses treatment of a pruritus-associated condition with serlopitant and an additional antipruritic agent, and the use of serlopitant as a sleep aid, optionally in combination with an additional sleep-aiding agent. |
| US09486437B2 |
Methods of using low-dose doxepin for the improvement of sleep
Methods of preventing early awakenings, and improving sleep efficiency in hours 7 and 8 of a period of sleep, by administration of low doses of doxepin (e.g., 1-6 mg). |
| US09486436B2 |
Method for making bismuth containing liquid pharmaceutical suspensions
A method of producing a liquid pharmaceutical suspension by mixing magnesium aluminum silicate, gellan gum, bismuth subsalicylate, and methyl cellulose. |
| US09486434B2 |
Method for delivery and use of isothiocyanates for prophylaxis and/or therapy of bladder cancer
Provided is a composition that contains a mixture of broccoli seed and mustard seed. Before mixing the broccoli seed with the mustard seed, the broccoli seed is subjected to baking and a pressurized heat treatment. The broccoli seed is baked at a temperature of at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 60 minutes, and is subjected to a pressurized heat treatment of at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit at a pressure of at least 10 pounds/square inch for at least 5 minutes. Also provided is a method for therapy and/or prophylaxis of bladder cancer in an individual. The method entails administering orally to the individual a composition that contains an isothiocyanate (ITC) or a derivative thereof such that the administration inhibits the growth and/or recurrence of bladder cancer. Nutraceutical compositions are also provided. |
| US09486425B2 |
4-oxo-2-pentenoic acid and liver disorders
The present invention relates generally to compositions with a health benefit. In particular, the invention relates to treatment or prevention of liver disorders. A subject matter of the invention is a composition comprising 4-oxo-2-pentenoic acid for use in the treatment or prevention of liver disorders. A further subject matter of the invention is a composition comprising 4-oxo-2-pentenoic acid for use in the treatment or prevention of liver disorders linked to an insufficient activity of phase II enzymes in the liver. |
| US09486423B2 |
Redox-directed chelators targeting intracellular metal ions
The present invention provides redox-activated chelators and methods for using the same to treat cancer. In one particular embodiment, the redox-activated chelator is of the formula: wherein each of m and n is an integer from 0 to 4; each of Ar1 and Ar2 is independently aryl or heteroaryl; each of R1, R2, R5 and R6 is independently hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, electron withdrawing group or an anion stabilizing group; each of R3 and R4 is independently alkyl, halide, or other electron withdrawing group or an anion stabilizing group. |
| US09486422B2 |
Small molecule inhibitors of Mcl-1 and the uses of thereof
This invention is in the field of medicinal chemistry. In particular, the invention relates to a new class of small-molecules having sulfonamido-1-hydroxynaphthalene structure which function as inhibitors of Mcl-1 protein, and their use as therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. |
| US09486420B1 |
Wound gel containing antimicrobial composition
A gel useful in reducing bacterial colonization in or around the area of a wound includes at least one PEG and an aqueous composition having a pH of from 2 to 4, a total solute concentration of from 1.8 to 4.0 Osm/L, and from 0.9 to 1.7 g/L of at least one cationic surfactant. The aqueous composition can include a buffer system that includes an organic acid and a salt of an organic acid. The gel is effective even when free of materials having antimicrobial properties other than those provided by the aqueous composition such as sporicides, antifungals and antibiotics. |
| US09486413B2 |
Tamper resistant dosage forms
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical dosage forms, for example to a tamper resistant dosage form including an opioid analgesic, and processes of manufacture, uses, and methods of treatment thereof. |
| US09486409B2 |
Peptide nanoparticles and uses therefor
The present invention provides nanoparticle compositions including one or more peptides. The present invention achieves transdermal delivery of such peptides without the need for peptide modification, or for use of chemical or mechanical abrasion or disruption of skin. |
| US09486407B2 |
Orally administered corticosteroid compositions
The present invention is directed to orally administered corticosteroid compositions. The present invention also provides a method for treating a condition associated with inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract in an individual. The method comprises administering to an individual in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition of the present invention. |
| US09486403B2 |
Gel compositions
The present invention provides a gel combination comprising: polycarbophil in an amount comprised from 1 to 5% by weight; polyvinylpirrolidone in an amount comprised from 4 to 8% by weight; glycerine in an amount comprised from 1 to 10% by weight; and propyleneglycolin an amount comprised from 20 to 40% by weight; wherein: the weight ratio between polyvinylpirrolidone:polycarbophil is comprised between 1:1 and 4:1, the weight ratio between glycerine:polycarbophil is comprised from 0.5:1 to 2:1, and the weight ratio propyleneglycol:polycarbophil is comprised from 8:1 to 20:1. The invention also provides transparent compositions comprising such gel combinations as well as processes for their preparation and the use thereof as a medicament. Due to the specific excipients, % by weight, and weight ratios forming the combination, the resulting compositions show a high bioadhesivity and bioavailability of the active ingredient, without toxic adverse effects. |
| US09486399B2 |
Water resistant personal care polymers
Described are personal care compositions comprising a polymer comprising: (a) one or more polymer comprising, as polymerized units, (i) 75% to 35% by weight, based on the weight of said polymer, one or more (meth)acrylate monomer selected from at least one of C1-C4 (meth)acrylate, (meth)acrylic acid, styrene, or substituted styrene, and (ii) 25% to 65% by weight, based on the weight of said polymer, one or more hydrophobic monomer, including hydrophobically substituted (meth)acrylate monomers, with alkyl chain length from C8 to C22 and, (iii) optionally crosslinker, and, (b) at least one suncare active. Optionally, the polymer further includes a stage 2 polymer comprising, as polymerized units, (i) 10-99% of one or more monomer which has a Tg of more than 80° C. after polymer formation, (ii) 1-10% of one or more (meth)acrylate monomer containing acid functional group, and (iii) optionally, a crosslinker. |
| US09486397B2 |
Dermocosmetic compositions based on a synergistic combination of colloidal silver and deoxyribonucleic acid
The present invention relates to dermocosmetic compositions containing, as active ingredients, a synergistic combination of colloidal silver and deoxyribonucleic acid, characterized in that the colloidal silver is more particularly an aqueous solution of electro colloidal silver. |
| US09486396B2 |
Metal salt compositions
Described herein are compositions comprising combinations of metal salts, and methods of preparing and using the same. |
| US09486394B2 |
Pharmaceutical foam
The present invention provides various pharmaceutically active topical delivery compositions. In particular, compositions of the present invention are present in a pressurized container comprising a quick-breaking alcoholic foaming agent, such that when the composition is released, i.e., dispensed, from the pressurized container, a quick-breaking temperature sensitive foam is formed. In addition, the present invention provides various aspects related to such compositions, including methods for modulating a foam characteristic, methods for improving the shelf-life of a pharmaceutically active compound, methods for the percutaneous treatment of various diseases, infections, and illnesses, and methods for evaluating foam characteristics. |
| US09486391B2 |
Multiple vial drug mixing system
A vial adapter modular assembly (10) including a bag spike port (12) connectable to an output port (16) of a bag (18), a vial port (20) connectable to a vial, and an exit port (24), characterized by a lumen (32) having a vial port flow opening (36) in fluid communication with the vial port (20), and a plunger element (34) that slides in the lumen (32) between a non-blocking position and a blocking position, wherein in the non-blocking position, the plunger element (34) does not block the vial port flow opening (36) and permits fluid flow between the bag spike port (12) and the vial port (20), and wherein in the blocking position, the plunger element (34) blocks the vial port flow opening (36) and blocks fluid flow between the bag spike port (12) and the vial port (20). |
| US09486390B2 |
Reference sensor for CPR feedback device
Embodiments of the present concept are directed to medical devices for use by a rescuer who is caring for a patient and includes a bottom device for use with a top device to measure the depth of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) chest compressions delivered to the chest of a patient. The top device is intended for placement on the chest of the patient and has a top mechanism that is moveable up and down as the chest compressions are delivered to the patient. The bottom device includes a generally elongate member having a handle at one end and a bottom mechanism near the opposite end. The elongate member is structured to be placed under the patient during delivery of CPR. The top mechanism and the bottom mechanism cooperate to generate a value for a net depth of the compressions of the patient chest with reference to each other. |
| US09486388B2 |
Stimulator apparatus
A stimulator apparatus for stimulating an organ, such as a penis. The apparatus includes a spherical housing configured to receive an organ through at least one aperture and allow for a 180° range of motion while manipulating the organ and/or the stimulator apparatus. The stimulator apparatus provides intensified sexual stimulation through frictional engagement between the organ and at least one channel in the housing. The at least one aperture includes a cover, and is sized and dimensioned to resemble a female sexual organ. The at least one channel includes numerous textures, orientations, diameters, and mechanical features to help enhance sexual stimuli for the organ. At least one grip portion positions on the housing to allow for sufficient grip for a user to manipulate the stimulator apparatus to a desired intensity and duration. The at least one grip comprises multiple indentations that match each finger. |
| US09486385B1 |
Compact cantilevered ambulatory assistive device
The Compact Cantilevered Ambulatory Assistive Device is intended to give physical support to persons having diminished abilities to walk, stand from a sitting position or to be seated from a standing position or maintain their balance. The design of the Compact Cantilevered Ambulatory Assistive Device supplies an upward force to the user through the Elongated Cantilevered Handles when transitioning from a sitting position to standing and provides stable support to the user when going from standing to a sitting position. The device maintains a stable support for the user by keeping the center of gravity of the device below the center of mass of the user, while walking, standing or transitioning from standing to sitting or from sitting to standing through the incorporation of cantilevered multi-wheeled bogie assemblies with the of the device's vertical support frames, the bogie assembly wheels being of such small diameters as to move without impediment under obstructions such as furniture, fixtures or seating. |
| US09486383B1 |
Systems and methods for exercising muscles that move the thigh
A system for exercising muscles that move the thigh according to various aspects of the present invention provides a source of resistance, suitably positioned, for the user to use when forcing the thigh to return to its original standing position, for instance, returning the foot to the floor. Such a system may include a base and an exerciser. The exerciser may include a positioner and a compliant surface. The compliant surface may include an elastic support and a foot receiver. The positioner establishes an initial position of the foot receiver. |
| US09486378B2 |
Heat therapy device
A heat therapy device, in particular an incubator, for treating newborn children, has a bordered lying surface (4) freely accessible from above for accommodating a newborn child. A hood (18) can be moved between a closed position in which the bordered lying surface (4) is covered and an open exposed bordered lying surface position. A radiation heater (16) is suspended from a support structure (8) and is directed at the surface (4), in such a way that, after the movement from the closed position to the open position, the end (18b) of the hood facing the support structure (8) lies vertically at least at the height of the radiation heater (16) and lies horizontally further from the support structure (8) than the radiation heater, such that the hood (18) assumes a position outside of a radiation cone (16a) from the radiation heater (16) onto the lying surface (4). |
| US09486375B2 |
Back support device
A back support device (100) having a first convex region (160) and a concave region (200) being connected to the first convex region (160), the first convex region (160) and the concave region (200) being configured to support respective regions of a user's back, wherein a ratio between a straight line distance across the first convex region (160) and a straight line distance across the concave region (200) approximates a geometric progression. |
| US09486372B2 |
Wheelchair
A conveyance to carry humans, such as a wheelchair, is described having levers on each side of the wheelchair that are manually moved forward and backward to propel the conveyance. The user is able to shift into forward, reverse or neutral, brake, and change mechanical advantage (gear ratio), all this without removing the user's hands from the drive levers. |
| US09486367B2 |
Absorbent article with lotion comprising a polypropylene glycol material
An absorbent article, such as a catamenial device, comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, the topsheet having an inner surface oriented toward the interior of the absorbent article and an outer surface oriented toward the skin of the wearer when the absorbent article is being worn. The absorbent article includes a backsheet joined to the topsheet, the backsheet having an inner surface oriented toward the interior of the absorbent article and an outer surface oriented toward the garment of the wearer when the absorbent article is being worn. The absorbent article includes an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, the absorbent core having an inner surface oriented toward the skin of the wearer when the absorbent article is being worn and an outer surface oriented toward the garment of the wearer when the absorbent article is being worn. The absorbent article includes a lotion composition applied to at least a portion of the inner surface of the topsheet, the inner surface of the backsheet, and/or a substrate or surface thereof disposed between the inner surface of the topsheet and the inner surface of the backsheet, wherein the lotion composition comprises a polypropylene glycol material. |
| US09486362B2 |
Ring-shaped device
The present invention aims to provide a ring-shaped device superior in the wearing comfort and intraocular stability while being worn on the eye.Provided is a ring-shaped device to be worn on the scleral surface, which is characterized in that it has an opening to expose the cornea and an intermediate portion between an inner edge portion and an outer edge portion has a maximum thickness. |
| US09486359B2 |
Ophthalmic surgical system and control arrangement therefor
A control arrangement for an ophthalmic surgical system for phacoemulsification of an eye lens includes an optical system for generating an image of an object region. At least part of the eye lens to be emulsified and part of a needle of a phacoemulsification handpiece can be arranged in the image. An image evaluation unit evaluates the generated image in such a way that an evaluation variable is generated which is dependent on a property of a particle produced by phacoemulsification of the eye lens or is dependent on a relation of the particle to its surroundings. A control unit generates a control variable in dependence upon the evaluation variable and, with the control variable, the control unit controls an absolute value of ultrasound energy which is supplied to the phacoemulsification handpiece by an energy source for phacoemulsification of the eye lens. |
| US09486358B2 |
Vitrectomy surgical apparatus
A vitrectomy apparatus is provided, including a pressure source, a cut valve connected to the pressure source, the cut valve configured to be turned on and off to provide pressure to selectively extend and retract a vitrectomy cutting device, a sensor configured to sense pressure provided from the cut valve, and a controller configured to control operation of the cut valve based on pressure sensed by the sensor. |
| US09486356B2 |
Eye dropper
An eye dropper bottle including a notch for resting on the bridge of a nose is provided. The eye dropper bottle may include a curved neck with a nozzle. The nozzle may be oriented at an angle relative to the bottle. A user may place the notch on the bridge of the nose so that the nozzle is disposed over the eye. The user may then squeeze the bottle to dispense the liquid into the eye. |
| US09486355B2 |
Selective accumulation of energy with or without knowledge of tissue topography
Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example method may include a method for heating a body tissue region adjacent to a body lumen. The method may include positioning an energy delivery portion of a catheter within the lumen and engaging the body lumen with the energy delivery portion. Engaging the body lumen may complete a plurality of circuits. The method may also include determining a pulse characteristic in response to a thermal property of a first tissue type and applying controlled pulsed electrical energy with the pulse characteristic from the energy delivery portion through the plurality of circuits. |
| US09486354B2 |
Cervical collar
A cervical collar that facilitates therapeutic hypothermia is provided and includes an outer shell having a front portion and a back portion fixedly coupled to the front portion on one side and removably coupled to the front portion on an opposite side. A fastening device removably couples the back portion to the front portion on the opposite side. At least one cooling device is provided on an interior of the outer shell to induce hypothermia in a patient. A sensor is provided that measures a physical characteristic of the patient. |
| US09486353B2 |
Spring-biased nasal molding device
A spring-biased nasal molding device for presurgical molding of cleft lip deformities, the device having a V-shaped spring member joined to a pair of intra-nasal shaping members for insertion in a nostril, and having an extra-nasal shaping member to be positioned external to the nostril connected to each intra-nasal shaping member, wherein the intra-nasal and extra-nasal shaping members are brought together by the spring member to mold the nasal anatomy into the desired shape. |
| US09486350B2 |
Stent-graft delivery system having handle mechanism for two-stage tip release
A delivery system for a stent-graft is disclosed having a tip capture device and a tip release handle mechanism configured to actuate the tip capture device. The tip release handle mechanism includes a rotatable grip component and a tip release actuation component. The grip component may be rotatable in a first direction to transition a proximal stent of the stent-graft from the delivery state to a partially deployed state and rotatable in an opposite, second direction to transition the proximal stent from the partially deployed state to a fully deployed state. The grip component is operably coupled to the tip release actuation component. The delivery system further includes a shaft component operably coupled to the tip release actuation component and the tip capture device. |
| US09486344B2 |
Stent system with abutable C-shaped body sections for use in a bifurcated body vessel
A bifurcation stent system includes a pair of self-expanding stents. Each stent has a C-shaped body section having a generally semicircular cross-section along its length and an O-shaped body section having a circular cross-section along its length. The stents are deployed in vivo such that the edges of the C-shaped body sections abut each other to form a tubular scaffold in a Y-shaped formation that conforms to the bifurcation. In order to connect the stents in vivo, the C-shaped body sections are configured to include a ball and socket connection there between. The C-shaped body sections align and abut to form a tubular scaffold that extends in the main vessel of the bifurcation, while the O-shaped body sections are tubular scaffolds that extend into the respective branch legs of the bifurcation. |
| US09486334B2 |
Vacuum prosthesis with force sensing member
A prosthetic device includes a socket assembly defining a cavity and configured to receive a portion of a residual limb of a user within the cavity, a force sensing member configured to detect forces applied to the residual limb at a plurality of locations about the portion of the residual limb and generate signals based on the detected force, a vacuum system in fluid communication with the socket and configured to control an amount of vacuum applied to the cavity, and a controller coupled to the force sensing member and the vacuum system. The controller is configured to receive the signals from the force sensing member and control operation of the vacuum system during use of the prosthetic device by the user based at least in part on the signals received from the force sensing member. |
| US09486332B2 |
Multi-modal neural interfacing for prosthetic devices
Methods and systems to interface between physiological devices and a prosthetic device, including to receive a plurality of types of physiological activity signals from a user, decode a user movement intent from each of the plurality of signals types, and fuse the movement intents into a joint decision to control moveable elements of the prosthetic device. |
| US09486329B2 |
System and methods for spinal fusion
A spinal fusion system and related methods involve the use of a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction. The spinal fusion implant is particularly suited for introduction into the disc space via a lateral approach to the spine. |
| US09486328B2 |
Expandable intervertebral cage
An expandable intervertebral cage device includes a first base plate and a second base plate, a proximal block with internal threading that mechanically couples the first base plate and the second base plate, and a distal block comprising an internal passage. The device has exactly two arm assemblies, one on each side. Each arm assembly includes a first arm mechanically coupled to the first base plate and the distal block, and a second arm is mechanically coupled to the second base plate and the distal block. A screw is arranged partially within the internal threading of the proximal block and passes through the internal passage of the distal block, such that rotation of the screw relative to the proximal block causes a change in distance between the proximal block and the distal block, and a corresponding change in the spacing and lordosis of the device. |
| US09486327B2 |
Standalone interbody implants
Stand-alone interbody fusion devices for engagement between adjacent vertebrae. The stand-alone interbody fusion devices may include frames and one or more endplates coupled to the frame. The frame may be configured and designed to provide the apertures which are designed to retain bone fasteners, such as screws or anchors, and secure the implant to the adjacent vertebrae. |
| US09486325B2 |
Expandable intervertebral implant
An implant for therapeutically separating bones of a joint has two endplates each having an opening through the endplate, and at least one ramped surface on a side opposite a bone engaging side. A frame is slideably connected to the endplates to enable the endplates to move relative to each other at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the implant, in sliding connection with the frame. An actuator screw is rotatably connected to the frame. A carriage forms an open area aligned with the openings in the endplates. The openings in the endplates pass through the carriage to form an unimpeded passage from bone to bone of the joint. The carriage has ramps which mate with the ramped surfaces of the endplates, wherein when the carriage is moved by rotation of the actuator screw, the endplates move closer or farther apart. |
| US09486317B2 |
Method of arthroscopic osteochondral resurfacing using PRP strengthened with fibrin glue
Methods of arthroscopic resurfacing of a joint utilizing a biological component strengthened with fibrin glue. The biological component is selected from the group consisting of PRP, bone marrow aspirate (BMA) and autologous conditioned plasma (ACP). The biological component/fibrin glue composition may be inserted (by injection or by employing a biologic resurfacing mold, for example) into a transosseous tunnel in the vicinity of the defect to be repaired. Upon insertion at the defect site, the biological component/fibrin glue composition is designed to coagulate and solidify within few minutes, to advance the healing of the damaged tissue and tissue growth. The biological component/fibrin glue composition may optionally comprise components such as growth factors, antiseptic chemicals and/or antibiotics and/or electrolytes, or hormones or site-specific hybrid proteins, among others. |
| US09486316B2 |
Osteoconductive implants and methods of using same
Implants for promoting bone growth and methods of using same, the implants including a perforated placental membrane sheet wrapped around an osteoconductive material composed of bone chips, bone granules, bone powders or combinations thereof, the osteoconductive material being configured for providing a scaffold upon which bone growth can occur. The placental membrane sheet acts to maintain the osteoconductive material in a cohesive, organized configuration within a site of a patient where bone growth is to be induced. The perforations in the placental membrane sheet create passageways in the exterior of the implant through which the osteoconductive material can communicate with adjacent bone surfaces which are to be fused. |
| US09486312B2 |
Method of manufacturing a prosthetic valve
A prosthetic valve for implantation in a stenosed aortic valve. The prosthetic valve includes a metallic frame formed with intersecting bars having diameters in the range of 0.1 to 0.6 mm. The frame is radially collapsible for advancement into a native aortic valve using a catheterization technique. The frame is radially expandable for embedding the frame within the native aortic valve. The frame has sufficient radial strength to resist the recoil forces of the native aortic valve after implantation. The prosthetic valve includes a collapsible valvular structure made with pericardium. The prosthetic valve also includes an internal cover which forms a substantially impermeable tubular sleeve. The internal cover preferably extends between a lower extremity of the frame and the valvular structure. The internal cover is preferably sutured to the valvular structure. The valvular structure and internal cover are sutured to the bars of the frame. |
| US09486305B2 |
IVC filter with translating hooks
A filter with translating hooks is described. The filter can include strut members having first and second struts connected by a connecting portion. A translating hook is disposed adjacent the connecting portion of the strut members, the hook including a first elongate member attached at one end to the first strut and a second elongate member attached at one end to a second strut, the opposite ends of the elongate members connected together to define a tip. The translating hooks are configured to bend toward a central axis of the filter when the filter is in a collapsed configuration for delivery to a blood vessel and recovery from a blood vessel, and away from the central axis of the filter when the filter is in an expanded configuration within a blood vessel such that the hooks engage a vessel wall. |
| US09486304B2 |
Tubular filter
A method of preparing a filter for delivery into a body vessel. The filter includes a hub disposed along a longitudinal axis and a plurality of anchor members extending from the hub. Each anchor member includes either a cranial extension or a caudal extension at a distal end thereof. At least one anchor member distal end may be spaced from the hub at each of a first, second, and third distance along the longitudinal axis. The filter also includes a plurality of locator members extending from the hub, the locator members alternatingly interposed between the anchor members. |
| US09486301B2 |
Artificial urinary sphincter system having a cuff with an inflatable balloon attached to a frame
An artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) system includes a pump attachable with tubing between a pressure regulating reservoir and a cuff. The cuff is configured for placement around a portion of a urethra and has a frame with at least one inflatable balloon attached to the frame. A gap is formed from a top edge to a bottom edge of the frame, where the gap provides the rigid frame with a C-shaped conformation in lateral cross-section having a first lateral section separated from a second lateral section. Each inflatable balloon(s) is/are attached to an interior surface on one of the first lateral section or the second lateral section of the frame. |
| US09486294B2 |
Surgical system
A surgical system is disclosed. The surgical system can include a tray and a vacuum-fitted cover covering at least a portion of the tray. The surgical system can comprise a tray and a drape at least partially vacuum-fitted to the tray. A surgical drape is also disclosed. The surgical drape can comprise a cover including an opening and an interior cavity defined by a flexible wall which is configured to receive a support surface. The surgical drape can further comprise a closable portion configured to close the opening and seal at least a portion of the support surface within the interior cavity. The surgical drape can further include a valve in fluid communication with the interior cavity, wherein the valve is configured to enable the suction of air from the interior cavity and draw the flexible wall inwardly to closely envelop at least a portion of the support surface. |
| US09486293B2 |
Surgical drape kit
A surgical drape kit for performing a surgical procedure includes a surgical drape having a fenestration site; a plurality of containers attached to the surgical drape; and a plurality of components used to perform a surgical procedure. The containers are attached to the surgical drape around a perimeter of the fenestration site. Each container includes at least one component. Disposition of the components inside the containers is determined by sequential steps of the surgical procedure. |
| US09486291B2 |
Target region identification for imaging applications
Systems and methods related to the location of target regions in imaging applications are generally described. Certain embodiments relate to devices and/or methods for image-guided identification of suitable regions at which to insert needles, catheters, and the like. Such systems and methods can be used in association with a variety of imaging technologies, including ultrasound imaging. In certain embodiments, the systems and methods described herein can be used in association with hand-held ultrasound imaging devices. |
| US09486286B2 |
Medical laser user interface
The medical laser user interface of the present invention generally comprises a medical laser unit and a control system. The medical laser unit includes an optical probe for delivering laser light to a patient's tissue. The control system controls operation of the medical laser unit. Specifically, the control system provides a foot pedal system that enables the user to switch between the delivery of a first wavelength of laser light and a second wavelength of laser light through depression of a foot pedal. In a first embodiment, a single foot pedal can be used to toggle the wavelengths, where as in a second embodiment two foot pedals can be use, i.e., one for the first wavelength and one for the second wavelength. The two wavelengths provided include a wavelength for vaporization of tissue and a wavelength for coagulation. |
| US09486284B2 |
Laser therapy system with UVA and IR laser light for directional generation of a dermal collagen matrix
The present invention refers to a Laser therapy system and a method for skin treatment, comprising: a unit for dispensing a Photosensitizer containing agent; a first light source which generates at least one first light with a first wavelength; a second light source as a Laser light source which generates at least a second light with a second wavelength; an optical system which is connected to the first and to the second light source, comprising an electromechanical displacement device with an optical deflection and focusing system such that the first and second light gets focused and a respective focus point can be controllably positioned in the skin; and a control unit for controlling the electromechanical displacement device and the first and the second light source such that the respective light spot with a controlled energy and position in the skin is produced. |
| US09486275B2 |
Electrosurgical apparatus having a sensor
An electrosurgical apparatus for treating tissue comprises an elongate shaft including a proximal region, a distal region having an electrically conductive region and one or more lumens through the shaft. A stylet is located within one of the lumens for obturating at least a portion of an opening defined by a distal end of the elongated shaft. The stylet distal end has a sensor and may include an occluding component substantially surrounding and affixed to it. The elongated shaft and the stylet can possibly be configured to allow passage of fluid through the lumen while the stylet is located within the lumen. Related stylet configurations are also disclosed. |
| US09486273B2 |
High-density electrode-based medical device system
A medical device system is disclosed including a high-density arrangement of transducers, which may be configured to ablate, stimulate, or sense characteristics of tissue inside a bodily cavity, such as an intra-cardiac cavity. High-density arrangements of transducers may be achieved, at least in part, by overlapping elongate members on which the transducers are located, and varying sizes, shapes, or both of the transducers, especially in view of the overlapping of the elongate members. Also, the high-density arrangements of transducers may be achieved, at least in part, by including one or more recessed portions in an elongate member in order to expose one or more transducers on an underlying elongate member in a region adjacent an elongate-member-overlap region. |
| US09486268B2 |
Battery pack attached to a cable
An article comprising: (i) a handheld device including (a) a housing, (b) a powered element within the housing; (ii) a battery pack, wherein the handheld device is connected by an external cable to a functional system, wherein the battery pack is attached to the external cable, and wherein the battery pack supplies power to the powered element. |
| US09486262B2 |
System and method for minimally invasive clavicle plate application
A bone fixation plate, comprises an elongated body contoured to conform to the anatomy of a clavicle, the elongated body comprising a head at a first end and a shaft extending therefrom to a second end, the second end further comprising a reduced diameter tapered tip configured to permit insertion of the elongate body through a minimally invasive incision formed adjacent the clavicle. The bone fixation plate also comprises a first plate hole extending through the shaft from a proximal face to a distal face, the first plate hole formed as a combination hole and a second plate hole extending through the head from the proximal face to the distal face, the second plate hole being threaded. |
| US09486258B2 |
Hammertoe implant with asymmetrical head
An intramedullary fixation device used in bone fixation and stabilization on a patient includes a longitudinally extending rigid body and a distal head disposed at a distal end of the body. The distal head includes a central core portion and a plurality of extending distal wings radially projecting from the central core portion, wherein the radially projecting distal wings are spaced asymmetrically about the central core portion. A proximal head at a proximal end of the body and sized for insertion into an intramedullary canal of a phalanx of the patient. The proximal head includes a central core portion and a plurality of proximal wings extending radially outwardly from the central core portion. |
| US09486257B2 |
Rod reduction tool and method to assist in the passage of a connecting rod between pedicle screws
Rod delivery tools, methods for delivering a connecting rod of a pedicle screw system into seating slots of at least first and second long arm screw towers of a pedicle screw system, and a rod reduction tool and related methods for urging a distal leading end of a connecting rod and an opening of a long arm screw tower into alignment with one another, where the two are initially misaligned. |
| US09486254B2 |
Device and method for implanting a spinous process fixation device
The disclosure provides a device to facilitate the insertion and attachment of an implant that includes a barrel assembly and a plate assembly in an interspinous space. The device comprises a main body, a first arm that is configured to hold the barrel assembly, and a second arm that is configured to hold a locking plate of the plate assembly, wherein the first and second arms are movably attached to the main body. |
| US09486250B2 |
Lateral plate
A bone plate system is provided. The system includes two or more fastener locks stacked on top of each other and located between two holes in a plate adapted to receive bone fasteners. An actuator is provided between the locks. As the actuator is advanced, the locks are moved sequentially into position, firstly, to prevent one or more bone fasteners from backing out of the plate while permitting the fasteners to angulate and, secondly, to lock the angulation of the bone fasteners while still providing back out protection in situ. An expandable bone plate having a top plate interconnected to a bottom plate by a rack and pinion is provided. The rotation of the pinion with a driver lengthens or shortens the plate incrementally for custom length adjustment. The length is fixed in position with the simple removal of the driver and no further step is required to lock the plate length. |
| US09486241B2 |
Trocar seal assembly
A trocar for performing a procedure on a patient. The trocar has a hollow cannula with a distal end and a proximal end. The trocar also has a housing with a distal end attached to the proximal end of the cannula and a proximal end having a wall attached thereto. The wall has an aperture therethrough. The trocar further includes a seal assembly disposed within the housing. The seal assembly includes a first substantially rigid ring, a second substantially rigid ring, and a plurality of layered elastomeric members compressed therebetween. The first ring has a plurality of distally extending protrusions extending from a distal surface thereof, and the second ring has a plurality of proximally extending protrusions extending from a proximal surface thereof. |
| US09486239B2 |
Subintimal re-entry device
A subintimal recanalization catheter, including an elongate shaft including a first tubular member and a penetration member slidably disposed in a lumen of the first tubular member. The penetration member includes a distal tip positioned proximal of a distal nose of the first tubular member. The distal nose of the first tubular member includes a ramp and a guide wire lumen extending through the distal nose of the first tubular member. Longitudinal movement of the penetration member relative to the first tubular member causes the penetration member to contact the ramp to direct the distal tip of the penetration member away from the first tubular member. |
| US09486236B2 |
Ergonomic surgical instruments
A surgical instrument comprising a trigger configured to be actuated by a proximally directed force and by a distally directed force. The trigger may comprise a proximal trigger portion having a first length and a distal trigger hook comprising a distal portion having a second length. The second length may be less than the first length. The distal trigger hook may be coupled to the proximal trigger portion. |
| US09486232B2 |
Endoscopic cutting instruments having improved efficiency and reduced manufacturing costs
Minimally invasive endoscopic cutting instruments having improved efficiency, access and reduced manufacturing costs are described herein. In particular, the present invention describes means for eliminating or modifying the distal end axial bearing surfaces so as to reduce manufacturing costs as well as the opportunity for galling and metal shedding. The present invention further describes an improved hub attachment method that may further or alternatively reduce overall manufacturing costs. The present invention yet further describes means and methods for improved bendability in the field, which, in turn, enables improved access to remote surgical targets. |
| US09486225B2 |
Exclusion of the left atrial appendage
A device for excluding the left atrial appendage (LAA) includes first and second members, each with first and second ends. The second ends are connected by a hinge. The first ends interlock to close the device about the LAA. The members are shaped such that they can exclude the LAA without causing the development of necrotic tissue. If desired, a flexible cover can be provided and the first and second members can be disposed within the cover. If such a cover is used, it will contact the LAA in order to cushion the contact between the members and the LAA and minimize the tendency of the LAA to bleed. The invention also includes methods for using the device to exclude the LAA. |
| US09486224B2 |
Method and apparatus for restricting flow through an opening in the side wall of a body lumen, and/or for reinforcing a weakness in the side wall of a body lumen, while still maintaining substantially normal flow through the body lumen
A method for making a device for causing thrombosis of an aneurysm, wherein said device comprises a single elastic filament configurable between (i) an elongated, substantially linear configuration, and (ii) a longitudinally-contracted, substantially three-dimensional configuration, said method comprising: providing a sheet of shape memory material; producing a single filament, two-dimensional interim structure from said sheet of shape memory material; mounting said single filament, two-dimensional interim structure to a fixture so that said single filament, two-dimensional interim structure is transformed into said longitudinally-contracted, substantially three-dimensional configuration; and heat treating said single filament, two-dimensional interim structure while it is mounted to said fixture so as to produce said device in its longitudinally-contracted, substantially three-dimensional configuration. |
| US09486221B2 |
Hydrogel filaments for biomedical uses
Described herein are apparatus, compositions, systems and associated methods to occlude structures and malformations with radiopaque hydrogel filaments with delayed controlled rates of expansion permitting the repositioning of the device once inside the structure or malformation. Further described is a device for implantation in an animal comprising a difunctional, low molecular weight ethylenically unsaturated shapeable macromer; an ethylenically unsaturated monomer; and a radiopaque element, wherein said device contains no support members. Methods of forming such devices are also disclosed. |
| US09486219B2 |
Biliary shunts, delivery systems, methods of using the same and kits therefor
The application discloses devices, systems, kits and methods for treating biliary disease. Device comprise, for example, a component configured for deployment between a gallbladder and location within a gastrointestinal tract of a patient which has a proximal end and a distal end with a lumen extending therethrough. A method of deploying the device can be achieved by, for example, creating a duct or fistula between a gallbladder lumen and a portion of a gastrointestinal tract; and providing for drainage from the gallbladder to the gastrointestinal tract. |
| US09486218B2 |
Hernia mesh tacks
There are disclosed various embodiments of surgical tacks for use in surgical procedures. The tacks generally include a head and a barrel portion extending distally from the head. Preferably, the head and the barrel portion define a throughbore for receipt of a drive instrument. A thread on the head is provided to engage threads in the installation tool. A tissue thread is provided on the barrel portion to engage tissue. Distal and proximal surfaces of the tissue thread may be oriented at various angles relative to the barrel portion. There is also disclosed an insertion instrument to insert one or more tacks as well as a method of use. There is further disclosed a model device for use in explaining the operation of the instrument. |
| US09486214B2 |
Motor driven surgical fastener device with switching system configured to prevent firing initiation until activated
A surgical fastener apparatus having a handle, an elongated shaft having a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal end extending therefrom. An end effector including a pair of jaws pivoted at a proximal end thereof and movable between an open and closed position. A cartridge containing a plurality of surgical fasteners, the cartridge attached to the end effector. An electrically powered actuator for deploying the surgical fasteners, the actuator including a power source and a motor. A switch configured to prevent application of firing motions to the end effector until the switch has been activated. |
| US09486212B2 |
Bone staple storage, inserter, and method for use therewith
The invention comprises a fusion implant system for a generally u-shaped bone staple in which the staple is provided on a storage block with the two side legs in an unsplayed position, and an inserter having two triangular shaped pivoting handles has detachable tips that engage the staple on the storage block such that when the handles are aligned one over the other in a congruent position, the tips force the side legs into a splayed configuration at 90° and a sliding block holds the handles in this position to allow the staple to removed from the storage block and tamped using the inserter handles into respective bone. |
| US09486208B2 |
Meniscal repair systems and methods
A device for repairing a tear in a portion of tissue comprises a proximal actuator portion, a transfer needle extending distally from the proximal actuator portion and a catch needle extending distally from the proximal actuator portion. A suture needle is disposed in the transfer needle, and is extendable from the transfer needle toward the catch needle and retractable from the catch needle toward the transfer needle. An extendable catch plunger is disposed in the catch needle for capturing suture therein when it is transferred from the transfer needle. A retractable insertion sheath is provided for covering the transfer needle and the catch needle when the device is inserted into a procedural site. A depth limiting apparatus limits the depth of insertion of the needle into the procedural site. |
| US09486207B2 |
Suture anchor eyelet with suture loader
Techniques and reconstruction systems for knotless tissue fixation using a driver with a cannulated interference device or fixation device preloaded on the shaft of the driver. An eyelet, adjustable in size, is formed of a loading suture provided at the distal end of the driver shaft. A working suture attached to the tissue to be fixed is passed through the eyelet. The size of the eyelet is adjusted by the user once the working suture is passed through the eyelet, to capture the working suture with the eyelet. The cannulated interference device is then advanced down the shaft to secure the working suture in a bone socket. |
| US09486206B2 |
Treating dysfunctional cardiac tissue
Medical devices, systems, and methods reduce the distance between two points in tissue, often for treatment of congestive heart failure and often in a minimally invasive manner. An anchor is inserted along an insertion path through a first wall of the heart. An arm of the anchor is deployed and rotationally positioned according to a desired alignment. Application of tension to the anchor may draw the first and second walls of the heart into contact along a desired contour so as to effect a desired change in the geometry of the heart. Additional anchors may be inserted and aligned with the first anchor to close off a portion of a ventricle such that the ventricle is geometrically remodeled and disease progression is reversed, halted, and/or slowed. |
| US09486205B2 |
Surgical devices
The present disclosure relates to a surgical device including a shaft having an outer member and an inner member slidably received within the outer member, a handle coupled to the shaft, and a means for providing movement to the inner member coupled to the inner member. A method of tissue repair is also disclosed. |
| US09486203B2 |
Latching anchor device
An anchor that secures to a connector as part of an anchor assembly is disclosed. The proximal anchor includes a pair of spaced apart prongs which join together at a slot inception. The prongs are shaped and sized of a configuration to define a catch or latching structure. The prongs are configured to capture and deform the suture between the protrusions and prevent the suture from disengaging from the slotted anchor device once engaged. |
| US09486202B2 |
Suture and soft anchor assembly and method of making the same
A method of anchoring a suture into a pilot hole in bone, utilizing a suture anchor. A lumen-defining circular soft wall, having a first and second end, is slidably engaged to a piece of suture, a first length of which extends from the first end of the wall and is threaded through the lumen from the second end, and a second length of which extends from the second end and is threaded through the lumen from the first end. The suture anchor is introduced into the pilot hole so that the first length and second length of suture material extend out of the pilot hole. The first length and second length are pulled on alternately, thereby permitting the suture anchor structure to slide on the piece of suture material, and to be compacted evenly by the pulling, until the suture anchor is set in the pilot hole. |
| US09486198B2 |
Trans-endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery port
Surgical access ports useful in minimally invasive surgical procedures are provided. The access ports comprise a cannula that defines a passageway for one or more surgical instruments through a tissue tract and a dome extending from the cannula to provide an expanded diameter for receiving one or more surgical instruments. |
| US09486196B1 |
Retractor systems with sensors
A retractor system includes a retractor with an oximeter sensor at its tip and a force sensor coupled to the retractor. The retractor system also includes a system unit which can send signals to and receive signals from the oximeter sensor via optical fibers. The oximeter sensor measures oxygen saturation of a tissue being refracted by the retractor, and the force sensor measures an amount of force that is applied to the retracted tissue by the tip of the retractor. Another retractor system has a closed loop control arrangement with a positioning mechanism which moves the retractor based on measurements of the sensors. |
| US09486195B2 |
Surgical retractor having lifting capability
A surgical retractor includes a pair of small grips that are disposed at the ends of arms that can be moved toward or away from each other. The grips engage and separate the sides of an incision that has been made in a patient. A lifting mechanism that can be attached to one of the arms enables one side of the incision to be raised relative to the other side of the incision. The lifting mechanism includes a clamp that can be connected to the retractor and a foot that is connected to the clamp and which is movable relative thereto. The foot is engageable with the patient such that extension of the foot causes a selected grip to be raised. Retraction of the foot permits the selected grip to be lowered. In the preferred embodiment, the foot is disposed at one end of a notched rack; a rotatable pinion is in contact with the notches to extend and contract the rack; and a pivotally movable pawl permits movement of the rack in one direction and prevents movement of the rack in the other direction. |
| US09486192B2 |
Vascular closure device with automatic suture cutter
A tissue puncture closure device that includes an anchor (208, 508), a sealing pad (210, 510), a compaction member (212, 312, 412, 512), a suture (204, 504), and a suture cutting member (270, 472, 570). The compaction member is configured to compact the sealing pad toward the anchor. The suture is coupled to the sealing pad and anchor, and a portion of the suture extends through at least a portion of the compaction member. The suture cutting member is operable to cut the suture. The suture cutting member is operable within a portion of the compaction member to cut the suture. |
| US09486190B2 |
Spray delivery system
A delivery system for delivering multiple components that is assembled using snap-fit assembly and threadless engagement of syringes and associated parts. |
| US09486187B2 |
Wind up deployment mechanisms for surgical instruments
A surgical instrument includes a handle assembly having an actuating rod extending therefrom, a rotating member, a release member, and a stop, the actuating rod translatable along a longitudinal axis defined therethrough. The rotating member is disposed within the handle assembly and is configured to operably engage the actuating rod via a cam and link arrangement. The release member includes a first catch configured to lock the rotating member against the force of an energy storage device in a first condition and release the rotating member to rotate in an opposite direction with the force of the energy storage device in a second condition. The stop is disposed on a peripheral edge of the rotating member and is configured to operably engage the first catch when the release member is disposed in the first condition to limit the rotational movement of the rotating member. |
| US09486183B2 |
Apparatus for collecting donated stool
Disclosed are an apparatus for the collection of donated stool, a collection chamber for depositing (or collecting), processing and harvesting stool from a donor and a process for the preparation of a composition comprising donated stool and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. |
| US09486182B2 |
Ultrasound image generating device, ultrasound image generating method, and program
This ultrasound image generating device includes an ultrasound probe which transmits ultrasound into a subject, receives reflected sound, and outputs an ultrasound detection signal, the ultrasound image generating device generating a topographical image which represents a shape. The ultrasound image generating device further includes a sound speed value computation unit which computes a sound speed value in a region of interest in the topographical image; and a degree of reliability information generation unit which generates degree of reliability information of the sound speed value on the basis of the sound speed value corresponding to the region of interest. |
| US09486177B2 |
X-ray computed tomography apparatus, medical image processing apparatus, and medical image processing method
An X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, a volume data reconstruction unit, a lung field region specifying unit, a discrimination unit, an image generation unit, and a display unit. The volume data reconstruction unit reconstructs first volume data of a chest region of an object based on an output from the X-ray detector. The lung field region specifying unit specifies a lung field region of the object in the first volume data. The discrimination unit generates second volume data in which a low CT value region is discriminated from a region other than the low CT value region in the lung field region. The image generation unit generates an image representing a two-dimensional distribution concerning an existing ratio of the low CT value region to the lung field region based on the second volume data. |
| US09486172B2 |
Estimation of insulin sensitivity from CGM and subcutaneous insulin delivery in type 1 diabetes
In a method of determining insulin sensitivity in a patient, glucose level is sensed continuously. A first area under the curve representing the glucose level over time is calculated. An amount of insulin that has been administered to the patient is sensed. An estimation of insulin on board the patient is calculated based on the glucose level and the amount of insulin administered to the patient. A second area under the curve representing the insulin on board over time is calculated. Patient data indicative of at least one patient physical parameter is received. Information indicative of amount of glucose ingested by the patient during a meal is received. An insulin sensitivity output indicative of ability of insulin to stimulate glucose utilization and inhibit glucose production in the patient based on the first and second area under the curve, the patient data and the meal information is generated. |
| US09486171B2 |
Predictive calibration
A portable medical monitor system generates a current calibration curve for generating the estimate of the level of an analyte, such as glucose, being monitored. The current calibration curve is based on at least two measured data values of the level being monitored. The system determines a transformation function based on the calibration curve and at least one preceding calibration curve such that the transformation function produces a predictive calibration curve, and generates an estimated level value of the level being monitored, based on sensor output from a sensor associated with the portable medical monitor system, in accordance with the predictive calibration curve. |
| US09486170B2 |
Image-guided therapy of a tissue
Image-guided therapy of a tissue can utilize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or another medical imaging device to guide an instrument within the tissue. A workstation can actuate movement of the instrument, and can actuate energy emission and/or cooling of the instrument to effect treatment to the tissue. The workstation and/or an user of the workstation can be located outside a vicinity of an MRI device or other medical imaging device, and drive means for positioning the instrument can be located within the vicinity of the MRI device or the other medical imaging device. The instrument can be an MRI compatible laser or high-intensity focused ultrasound probe that provides thermal therapy to, e.g., a tissue in a brain of a patient. |
| US09486168B2 |
Implantable electrode system
An electrode array (10) is configured for implantation into a subject. The electrode array (10) includes an organic substrate material (12) configured to be implanted into an in vivo environment and to optionally dissolve after implantation into the in vivo environment and be absorbed by the in vivo environment, and an electrode (14) mounted to the organic substrate material (12) and configured to acquire signals generated by the in vivo environment. The electrode array (10) includes a connection pad (20) mounted to the organic substrate (12), and a conductive trace (16) formed between the electrode (14) and the connection pad (2). The conductive trace (16) includes a conductive ink that is MRI-compatible. |
| US09486158B2 |
Active adaptive detuning systems and methods for interventional devices
Active MRI compatible interventional devices, such as catheters, include at least one RF antenna so that they are visible under MRI analysis. However, metallic structures within intravascular devices may heat up significantly during interventional MRI procedures due to eddy current formation over the conductive transmission lines. The electrical field coupling that occurs between interventional devices and RF signals depend on the position and orientation of interventional device within the bore and the insertion length of the interventional device. The system detects an induced current signal during RF transmission phase and selectively adjusts the impedance value associated with the interventional device by using a varactor and integrated circuit components in such a manner that the currents induced in the interventional device are below a threshold current level, thereby controlling current levels and heating in the interventional device. |
| US09486157B2 |
Intubation monitoring apparatus and method
The invention comprises an apparatus and a method for externally assessing and monitoring placement of an endo-tracheal tube for ventilation of patients based on thoracic impedance measurement. |
| US09486152B2 |
Respiratory-based control of medical procedure
A medical system (100) is disclosed that provides a respiratory-based control of at least one medical procedure. In this regard, the medical system (100) includes one or more appropriate sensors (108) for providing respiratory data on a patient (104). This respiratory data is utilized by respiration assessment logic (116) to determine if the respiratory data has exceeded one or more respiration thresholds and which may be equated with a “sudden” respiratory event. Identification of such a sudden respiratory event by the logic (116) results in the suspension of the noted medical procedure. Patient respiration data may also be displayed, for instance in a color that depends upon its magnitude or level. |
| US09486147B2 |
Method for controlling a spiroergometric system and spiroergometric system
Shown and described is a method for controlling and/or regulating a spiroergometry system (1) for determining energy metabolism during physical exertion, wherein the spiroergometry system (1) has a user unit (2) arranged in the flow of the inhaled and exhaled air of a test subject (4) for removing a respiratory gas sample of the test subject (4), at least one analysis unit (5) for measuring the respiratory gas composition and/or the respiratory flow volume and for determining physiological parameters relating to the ventilation and/or gas exchange of the test subject (4), particularly for determining the oxygen volume taken in during at least one inhalation of the test subject (4) and the carbon dioxide volume exhaled after the breath and, preferably, the respiratory quotient, at least one measuring device (6) for measuring the heart rate of the test subject (4), at least one control device (7) for controlling the spiroergometry system (1) and a cardio equipment unit (8) for the physical exertion of the test subject (4), wherein as the exertion of the test subject increases incrementally during use of the cardio equipment unit (8), a measurement of the respiratory gas composition and/or respiratory flow volume is performed automatically only toward the end of an exertion stage or of a performance stage prior to an increase in exertion, and a determination is made of the physiological parameters, particularly a determination of the inhaled oxygen volume and of the exhaled carbon dioxide volume with respect to at least one breath toward the end of the exertion stage. |
| US09486144B2 |
Photoacoustic image generation apparatus and acoustic wave unit
Using a laser source unit, pulse laser beams having a plurality of wavelengths is switched and emitted. A Q switch is inserted into an optical resonator including a pair of mirrors which face each other with a laser rod interposed therebetween. A wavelength selection unit includes a plurality of band pass filters having different transmission wavelengths, and selectively inserts the plurality of band pass filters into a light path of the optical resonator. A trigger control circuit controls driving unit that drives the wavelength selection unit so that the band pass filters inserted into the light path of the optical resonator are switched at a predetermined switching speed. In addition, the trigger control circuit causes the laser rod to be irradiated with excitation light from a flash lamp, and then turns on the Q switch at a timing when the wavelength selection unit inserts the band pass filter. |
| US09486142B2 |
Medical imaging devices, methods, and systems
Devices, methods, and systems for providing optical imaging to detect and characterize anatomical and/or physiological indicators, such as, rheumatoid arthritis, and devices, methods and systems for computer aided detection and diagnosis of tomographic images. Embodiments for optimizing machine classification of tissue samples are described. Embodiments for using machine classification techniques to classify indicators present in optical tomographic images are described. |
| US09486141B2 |
Identification of dental caries in live video images
A method for identification of caries, executed at least in part on data processing hardware, captures a plurality of blocks of digital tooth images, each block of tooth images comprising a fluorescence image and one or more reflectance images. At least one registered fluorescence image is generated from the fluorescence image and the one or more reflectance images. A combined image is generated using each of the one or more reflectance images and the at least one registered fluorescence image. |
| US09486140B2 |
Coherence gated doppler motion sensor and medical applications
A motion sensor applicable to medical procedures includes a source of light with a wavelength bandwidth and an optical detector. A first optical coupler terminates in a first probe tip and couples the light into the first probe tip. A second optical coupler terminates in a second probe tip and directs onto the detector scattered light returning through the second probe tip. A presentation device outputs a signal that indicates motion in a target volume of a sample in a vicinity of the probe tips based on a Doppler shift of the scattered light. The volume depends on coherence distance determined by the bandwidth. In variations, the first and second tips are the same tip, a multimode fiber is included, the bandwidth is between 0.1% and 5% of a center wavelength, or the presentation device is a speaker, or some combination. |
| US09486138B2 |
Portable handheld medical diagnostic device having a mezzanine circuit board with a universal connection interface
A portable handheld medical diagnostic device capable of communicating with an external device and a method thereof are disclosed. The device has a protective enclosure, a main circuit board provided in the protective enclosure and having a wireless connectivity component and a controller facilitating a physiologic measurement and communications of results of the physiological measurement to the external device. Also provided in the protective enclosure is a mezzanine circuit board having at least one of a plurality of additional feature modules and a universal connection interface programmed to both facilitate operation of the additional feature module and operate under the control of the controller as a control interface between the controller and the additional feature module. |
| US09486137B2 |
Angular multiplexed optical coherence tomography systems and methods
Angle multiplexed optical coherence tomography systems and methods can be used to evaluate ocular tissue and other anatomical structures or features of a patient. The angle multiplexed optical coherence tomography system includes a light source, an optical assembly for obtaining a plurality of sample beams corresponding to respective anatomical locations of the eye of the patient, where individual sample beams are associated with a respective non-zero angle relative to a reference beam, and a detection mechanism that detects individual unique interference patterns respectively provided by the plurality of sample beams, for simultaneous evaluation of the anatomical locations. |
| US09486135B1 |
Amusement park ride with adjustable thrill level
An amusement park ride having a car with seating options above a track, below the track or adjacent to the track such that a rider may experience different thrill levels depending on the position of the car in relation to the track. The car may have a swiveling arm to position the car above, lateral to, or below the track. Alternatively, ride may have multiple cars arranged above, lateral to, or below the track for the rider to choose which position to ride in. In lieu of or in addition to the car seating options, the may have adjustable shoulder restraints that allow the rider to use the shoulder restraints or not. The shoulder restraints may be flexible or rigid, but rotatable from an upright configuration to a sideways configuration. |
| US09486134B2 |
Ophthalmologic imaging apparatus and ophthalmologic image processing apparatus
An ophthalmologic imaging apparatus that can follow up imaging for acquiring a cross sectional image by referring to a front image of an eye acquired in the past and scanning the same position as before with light, includes: a photographing part configured to photograph the eye and acquire a front image thereof; a cross sectional image forming part configured to scan the eye with light and form a cross sectional image thereof; a storage configured to store a first front image of the eye and a second front image acquired in follow up imaging executed with referring to the first front image; an information obtaining part configured to analyze the first and second front images and obtain misregistration information between these front images; and a calculator configured to calculate an evaluation value of an error in a scanning position in the follow up imaging based on the misregistration information. |
| US09486133B2 |
Surgical access system and related methods
A surgical access system comprising a tissue dilation assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures. A retractor assembly for creating an operative corridor to a spinal surgical target site is disclosed, comprising: a retractor body and a plurality retractor blades extending generally perpendicularly to the retractor body, the retractor body being operable to separate the at plurality of retractor blades relative to each; and a supplemental retractor blade assembly attachable to at least two of the plurality of retractor blades, the supplemental retractor blade assembly comprising an elongated supplemental retractor blade and a crossbar connector, the crossbar connector configured to be attached to said at least two retractor blades while engaging the supplemental retractor blade. |
| US09486131B2 |
Apparatus for surgery
An apparatus for surgery includes a first arm member and a second arm member movable in relation to one another in a same plane through a pivoted portion, in an open and closed position, that is controlled by a pair of handles; at least one through hole is made onto one of the arm members; and a first blade and a second blade, each defined by a tip, a body and a base, perpendicularly extended in parallel from the first and second arm members respectively; wherein both blades have a substantially flat portion started from the tip to the body followed by an expanded portion around the base attached on the arm members that the expanded portion defines a groove therein enclosing the through hole in the closed position. |
| US09486125B2 |
Accessory clip for an endoscope
An accessory for partially enclosing a shaft of an endoscope is disclosed. The accessory defines a first space for accommodating the shaft and a second space for defining a conduit along the shaft. An outer surface of the accessory around the first and second spaces is centered on a first longitudinal axis, and the first space is centered on a second longitudinal axis spaced relative to the first longitudinal axis. The first space is open to one side, so that the accessory only partially encloses the shaft when placed around it. |
| US09486124B2 |
Advance and retreat assist tool for endoscopic treatment instrument
An advance and retreat assist tool includes a base unit, a first tubular member, a rotary portion and an advance and retreat mechanism. The advance and retreat assist tool further includes a hinge mechanism which switches to either a coaxial condition or a slanted condition. |
| US09486122B2 |
Mop base
Improved mop base capable of using both surfaces of a normal mop arranged parallel to one another. |
| US09486121B2 |
Vacuum cleaner with hair collection element
A vacuum cleaner comprises a cleaning head having a suction nozzle adapted to be moved along a surface to be cleaned, and a hair collection assembly provided on the cleaning head and having a hair collection element adapted to collect hair from the surface to be cleaned as the cleaning head moves along the surface to be cleaned. |
| US09486120B2 |
Wearer comfort backpack vacuum
A backpack vacuum has a body made up of an upper cannister and a lower motor compartment. The vacuum body is supported on a wearer's back by a harness. A vacuum motor draws air from an opening in the upper cannister through a primary air flow path out an exhaust outlet from the lower motor compartment. An adjustable air flow opening in the cannister sidewalls creates a secondary air flow path through the vacuum body which creates a cooling air region adjacent the wearer's back in use. |
| US09486119B2 |
Toilet bumper
A bumper assembly comprising a first member configured to engage a portion of the toilet or bidet attachment; and a resilient second member coupled to the first member; wherein the first member is more rigid than the second member and includes at least one catch configured to selectively engage a recess of the toilet or bidet attachment to detachably couple the first member to the toilet or bidet attachment. |
| US09486118B2 |
Fixture for a sink
A fixture for a sink—for example provided in a commercial washroom or the like—incorporating a water tap and a hand dryer. The water tap comprises a spout arranged to project over the basin of the sink. The hand dryer comprises: an opposing pair of left-hand nozzles mounted on the spout for directing air onto the front and back of a user's left hand as it is passed—with palm open—in between the opposing nozzles, and an opposing pair of right-hand nozzles mounted on the spout for directing air onto the front and back of a user's right hand as it is passed—with palm open—in between the nozzles. |
| US09486114B2 |
Removable header for a shower door track assembly
A shower door track assembly is disclosed. The shower door track assembly includes a vertical support. The shower door track assembly further includes a lower rail connected to the vertical support configured to receive a roller of a sliding shower door. The shower door track assembly includes a connecting projection connected to the vertical support. The shower door track assembly further includes a removable header including an upper roller retainer. The removable header is removably attachable to the connecting projection such that when the removable header is attached to the connecting projection, the upper roller retainer prevents a received roller from being removed from the lower rail, and when the removable header is detached from the connecting projection, the received roller is removable from the lower rail. |
| US09486111B2 |
Bath safety rail
A bath safety rail for being engaged to and disengaged from a bath surface. The bath safety rail includes a base, a handle on the base, first and second suction cups opposing the handle, cam followers on the suction cups that extend into the base, and cams in the base to engage and draw up the cam followers and suction cups to thereby create suction. The handle is two-piece where the pieces are separated by a handle plane, where each axis of each suction cup is in the handle plane. |
| US09486109B2 |
Induction heating system employing induction-heated switched-circuit vessels
An induction heatable article such as a pan is provided having a synthetic resin body with at least one susceptor coil secured to the body and operable under the influence of an induction field to generate Joule heating within the coil to thereby heat the body. The coil has a plurality of zones, each adjacent a different portion of the body and capable of providing respective, different magnitudes of Joule heating-derived energy per unit time in the zones. A multiple-pan, modular food heating/warming table includes a table supporting an array of individually controllable induction heaters with a plurality of synthetic resin, food-holding pans positionable on the table, wherein each pan has a zoned susceptor coil for induction heating of the pans. |
| US09486098B2 |
Tool for preparing an avocado
The present invention relates to a tool for preparing an avocado, which comprises a scoop and a slicer. The tool is transformable between a first state in which the scoop and the slicer are positioned at a same end of the tool and used cooperatively to scoop and slice the pulp of the avocado simultaneously, and a second state in which the scoop and the slicer are positioned at opposite ends of the tool and used separately. |
| US09486096B1 |
Storage and serving container having convertible base
A convertible container assembly comprising a convertible container body. The container body includes at least one angular conversion demarcation, defining an angular conversion section, and, optionally, at least one storage conversion demarcation, defining a storage conversion section. The angular conversion section includes a portion of a sidewall of the container body and a bottom portion of the container body. The angular conversion section toggles between an expanded configuration having a common horizontal upper rim and a compressed configuration creating a new container body support surface, angling the upper rim. The depth conversion section toggles between an expanded configuration as a container and a compressed configuration collapsing the container for storage. The conversion section can employ a single section or a series of sections, wherein the series of sections enable an accordion styled formation when collapsed. |
| US09486095B2 |
Shell with arm ports
A sleeping bag has an elongate shell defining a longitudinal axis and an inner volume sized and shaped to receive a user therein. The shell has a pair of fastener-less arm ports. Each of the arm ports is selectively moveable from a closed port position to an opened port position. Each of the ports has an inner panel and an outer panel. The inner panel is positioned in overlapping face-to-face engagement with the outer panel in the closed port position such that the inner and outer panels are generally in the same plane as the overlying portion. The outer panel is spaced from the inner panel in the opened port position to define a passage for allowing the user to extend their arm through the respective port. |
| US09486094B2 |
Notification board and labeling apparatus
The present invention generally relates to a notification boards. Specifically, this invention relates to a notification board configured to organize and display papers, photographs and other documents for viewing. Embodiments of the present invention may include a labeling apparatus configured to describe or otherwise detail the displayed contents of the notification board. |
| US09486092B2 |
Twist-tie dispenser refill
A twist-tie dispenser refill comprises a twist-tie cluster and a base. The twist-tie cluster includes a top cluster portion. The base includes a top portion, which is generally U-shaped and forms an opening configured and arranged to receive the top cluster portion of the twist-tie cluster. The base also includes a rear portion that defines mounting members used for mounting the base to a fixture. |
| US09486091B2 |
Moving rail hanger
The moving rail hanger comprises: a) a rail; b) a plurality of hanger brackets, each of said hanger brackets moveably and detachably attached to said rail, and each of said hanger brackets detachably attached to an external support structure, at one or more of said hanger brackets further comprising a drive mechanism said drive mechanism said rail along a path of movement defined by said plurality of hanger brackets; and c) one or more display brackets immovably and detachably attached to said rail. |
| US09486087B2 |
Nonslip seat pad
The nonslip seat pad described herein is designed of nonslip material and is intended to stop a seated subject, such as an infant or child, from slipping, sliding and slouching into an unsafe position. The nonslip seat pad may be used during the toddler's years while feeding and playing. The nonslip seat pad may have a bum (buttocks) shape for a custom designed fit. The nonslip seat pad is made from a material that is versatile and mobile for the consumer and user's convenience. |
| US09486086B2 |
Reconfigurable infant support structure
A reconfigurable infant support structure is disclosed. The infant support structure includes a support frame and a seat. The support frame is movable between a first position and a second position. The first position may movably engage a support surface and the second position may statically engage a support surface. The seat is reconfigurable between a first configuration and a second configuration and may be moved between its first and second configurations when the seat is moved between the first and second positions. The seat may be provided in the first configuration when the frame is in the first position and the seat may be provided in the second configuration when the frame is in the second position. The support frame may be moved between its first and second positions by being flipped upside down. |
| US09486078B2 |
Shelf assembly
A shelf assembly for an appliance comprises a shelf panel with a planar support surface and a frame to support the shelf panel with the support surface extending generally along a horizontal plane. The frame comprises a front support channel, opposed side support channels, and a rear support channel. The rear support channel is adapted to support the shelf panel against the force of gravity and to inhibit removal of the shelf panel from the frame in the direction of the horizontal plane. The shelf panel is selectively insertable into or removable from the rear support channel by temporarily deflecting the rear support channel relative to the horizontal plane a sufficient amount to separate the rear support channel from a rear edge of the shelf panel. |
| US09486077B2 |
Slide assembly with automatic closure
A slide assembly includes an outer slide segment, preferably at least one intermediate slide segment and an inner slide segment. An automatic closure arrangement applies a closing force to one or both of the inner and intermediate slide segments. In some configurations, a dampening arrangement dampens at least a portion of the travel of the slide assembly, such as the end portion of the closing travel of the slide assembly. The automatic closure arrangement can include two biasing elements, such as upper and lower constant force springs. The closure force of the constant force springs can be applied directly to the intermediate slide segment and the inner slide segment can be coupled for closing movement to the intermediate slide segment. |
| US09486072B1 |
Lap support device
Devices are provided that can be positioned on a user's lap and, when so positioned, provide a stable, comfortable surface to support a pet. The devices include a resilient body configured to be positioned around the user's thighs and having a central supporting surface. |
| US09486070B2 |
Height-adjustable support surface and system for encouraging human movement and promoting wellness
A sit/stand workstation includes a worktop that includes a powered drive and is moveable between a sitting height and a standing height. During use, a controller moves the worktop up and down following a user-defined schedule and uses sensors, such as a pressure mat, to detect how well the user follows the schedule and biometric indicators that convey fatigue and user energy level. In response to this monitored user information, the controller changes time, duration, and/or frequency of the schedule to better meet the abilities and fitness of the user and also to help encourage the user to continue regular use of both sitting height and standing height workstation positions. Sounds, voice, lights, colors, and numerical information are used to help encourage the user in use of the sit/stand workstation. |
| US09486068B2 |
Furniture line and method and system for providing customization thereof
A furniture line featuring a table which is customizable and suited for confined and irregular spaces such as balconies, decks or outdoors which line can be easily assembled or disassembled essentially by hand and available affordably with a variety of selectable tops, shapes and applications. The table features a skeletal frame arrangement with universal top mounts, selectable curved tubular or rod like legs, at least one and preferably two hub couplers or tubular leg and pedestal base, and optional rotatable or slide on levelers for uneven surfaces. A method and system disclosed provides purchaser customization of the table and complementary ensembles. |
| US09486066B2 |
Manual toothbrush concept being combined from three parts
A toothbrush comprises a head, a neck portion and a handle, wherein the neck portion and the handle portion are connected to one another via a coupling element. The connection is constructed as an inseparable connection, i.e., after being combined once, the neck portion and the handle cannot be separated without the brush being destroyed by such separation. A method for producing such a toothbrush may comprise the following steps: providing a head, a neck portion, a handle, and a coupling element, and combining the neck portion to the handle by the coupling element so that an irreversible connection is formed. |
| US09486059B2 |
Oral care implement
An oral care implement (100) having a head (120) that achieves an enhanced cleaning action during brushing. In one embodiment, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising: a handle (110) extending from a proximal end to a distal end; a head comprising: a cantilever (130) extending from the distal end of the handle; a spheroid (160) protruding from a front surface (131) of the cantilever; a rigid plate (140), the rigid plate spaced from the cantilever by a gap (151); and a first resilient material (150) in the gap flexibly coupling the rigid plate to the cantilever, the first resilient material encasing the spheroid and covering a rear surface (142) of the rigid plate and the front surface of the cantilever; a plurality of teeth cleaning elements (143) extending from a front surface of the rigid plate; and the rigid plate pivoting about the spheroid in response to brushing forces being applied to the head. |
| US09486050B2 |
Drawing apparatus and control method of the drawing apparatus
A drawing apparatus comprises a controlling unit which adjusts a size of a design image formed by a image data, the image data includes position information of a key point which is predetermined set, without changing an aspect ratio of the design image and the relative position of the key point, generates an adjusted design image, and fits the adjusted design image to a drawing region of a nail; and a drawing unit for drawing the adjusted design image on the drawing region.The controlling unit sets an adjustment point in the drawing region at the same relative positions in the longitudinal and lateral directions as the key point set on the design image, and, in the fitting, sets the adjusted design image to the drawing region at a position which the key point of the adjusted design image meets the adjustment point. |
| US09486048B2 |
Hair styling device
In a hair styling device comprising a heating unit (11), and a unit capable of engaging a detachable holder (21) with a hair treatment agent, whereby in the presence of the detachable holder (21), the detachable holder (21) covers the heating unit (11), a detector detects the presence of the detachable holder (21), and a temperature of the heating unit (11) in the presence of the detachable holder (21) is automatically set higher than a corresponding temperature in the absence of the detachable holder (21). |
| US09486046B2 |
Integrated polycarbonate case
A hard-sided case is disclosed having a first housing member and a second housing member configured to form an interior compartment therebetween. Additionally, an external compartment lid is disposed on a planar surface of the second housing member. The external compartment lid is dimensioned and configured to seal a cavity formed on the planar surface of the second housing member to create an enclosed compartment. |
| US09486042B2 |
Wristband with recessed clasp and method of assembling and operating same
A wristband has a clasp that includes a clasp latch and a clasp leg having an inner end and an outer end, wherein the inner end of the clasp leg is pivotally connected to a first end of the clasp latch. The wristband also includes a set of links having an end pivotally connected to the outer end of the clasp leg, wherein an inside face of at least one link of the set of links is recessed to form a recession that is shaped to cradle the clasp leg and at least a portion of the clasp latch when the clasp is closed. |
| US09486040B2 |
Magnetically operated locking slider for zipper
A zipper has a slider moveable in an opening direction to open the zipper and in a closing direction to close the zipper. The slider comprises a control member and a casing, the control member being moveable between a locking position in which movement of the slider in the opening direction is prevented and an unlocking position in which movement of the slider in the opening direction is allowed. When the control member is in the locking position the casing at least partially encloses the control member so as to substantially prevent the application of a contact force tending to move the control member from the locking position to the unlocking position. The control member is at least partly formed of a material to which a magnetic force is applied by a permanent magnet in proximity. |
| US09486039B2 |
Wire clamping device
A wire clamping device that has a simple configuration and is operated in a simple manner so as to improve convenience of use and product productivity and durability including: a housing provided with a ratchet-type gear on the inner circumference thereof and having a cylindrical inner surface; a reel axially coupled to the inside of the housing; an elevating cam having a slide protrusion-formed in the lower portion thereof, an outer circumferential cam groove formed on the outer circumference thereof, and an inner circumferential cam groove formed on the inner circumference thereof; a cam driving unit in which a cam protruding part is formed; a cam base having a guide cam and a ratchet coupling; and a rotating cover coupled to the upper part of the cam driving unit so as to be rotated in an integral manner. |
| US09486038B1 |
Apparatus that fits into the eyelets of lace up footwear and permits a closure means alternative to laces
A substantially cylindrical member having a stepped diameter and a lower portion dimensioned to fit snugly into the lace eyelets of a lace-up shoe (footwear, including a sneaker, e.g.). The upper end includes a circumferential groove which is adapted to receive an elastic member such as a rubber band, O-ring, or the like. The lower may be bifurcated to facilitate insertion into the shoe eyelets. As illustrated, the lower end is double bifurcated at right angles. According to one embodiment, the invention is sold as a kit which includes enough members to fill all of the eyelets of a shoe and enough elastic members to match. According to other embodiments: a pair of shoes are sold with the invention pre-installed; the invention is permanently installed; the cylindrical members and the elastic members are provided in different colors; the tops are adorned with three dimensional decorations. |
| US09486036B1 |
Shoe and method of manufacture
A shoe, and method of manufacture, including (i) a shoe upper having an arrangement of holes in the bottom surface, (ii) an outer sole having an arrangement of holes corresponding to the arrangement of holes in the bottom surface of the shoe upper, and (iii) an inner sole disposed within the shoe upper, the inner sole having a plurality of pegs that extend from its bottom surface that are arranged in alignment with the arrangement of holes in the shoe upper and outer sole when the inner sole is disposed within the shoe upper, each peg extending downwardly through its associated hole in the shoe upper and the outer sole, so that, in the preferred embodiment, the bottom surface of each peg is exposed to, and forms part of, bottom surface of the shoe. |
| US09486035B2 |
Article of footwear with multi-layered support assembly
An article of footwear including an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper and including a support assembly having an upper member and a lower member spaced from the upper member. A first layer is positioned beneath and in contact with the upper member and has a wave shaped profile with a plurality of first wave crests and first wave troughs. A second layer is positioned above the lower member and has a wave shaped profile with a plurality of second wave crests and second wave troughs. |
| US09486032B2 |
Shoes with interchangeable heels
Shoes with interchangeable heels. The assembly includes a sole having a toe end and a heel end. At the heel end, a heel attachment slide capture feature is provided. The heel attachment slide capture feature includes opposing first and second wedge portions forming a partial V-shaped passageway therebetween. The partial V-shaped passageway may decrease in width from the heel end toward the toe end. First and second heels are provided, each having a heel body, an upper end, and a lower end, and a locking slide portion sized and shaped complementary to the slide capture feature, for secure engagement therewith. The locking slide portion may further includes a nose portion having a detent, configured for use with a quick disconnect latch to provide releasable locking engagement between the sole and a heel of selected height, such as a high heel, low heel, or medium height heel. |
| US09486031B2 |
Article of footwear having an upper incorporating a knitted component
An article of footwear has an upper that includes a knitted component and a sole structure secured to the upper. The knitted component may define a tube formed of unitary knit construction, and a strand may extend through a length of the tube. As another example, the knitted component may have a pair of at least partially coextensive knitted layers formed of unitary knit construction, and a plurality of floating yarns may extend between the knitted layers. In some configurations, the knit type or yarn type may vary in different regions of the knitted component to impart different properties. Additionally, the knitted component may incorporate a thermoplastic yarn that is fused in different regions of the knitted component to impart different properties. A flat knitting process or a variety of other knitting processes may be utilized to form the knitted component. |
| US09486030B2 |
Audio pouch for helmet
An audio pouch is provided that secures an earpiece of a headphone assembly adjacent to the user's ear when worn. The audio pouch includes an inner panel and an outer panel that sandwich an earpiece of the headphone assembly therebetween, such that the earpiece is disposed adjacent to the user's ear when worn. The audio pouch includes attachments that retain helmet straps. The audio pouch is particularly effective with protective helmets having Y-straps extending from the helmet for attaching chinstrap thereto. |
| US09486029B2 |
Solid-liquid energy dissipation system, and helmet using the same
A helmet includes one or more pads on an inside surface of a shell, with the pads including a cushioning material that includes porous particles within a carrier liquid. The surfaces of the pores of the particles are lyophobic, resisting wetting by the carrier liquid. When the carrier liquid is placed under sufficient pressure, for example by an impact against the pad, the carrier liquid is forced into the pores. This causes the system to store and absorb energy within the carrier liquid. The pad may be made of flexible material with a pair of opposed major surface face pieces, with cells full of the liquid and particles extending between the face pieces. The liquid and particles may make up a majority of the volume of the pad, for example being at least 50% of the volume of the pad. |
| US09486028B1 |
Chin strap buckle assembly for sports helmet
A buckle assembly for a chin strap of a helmet has a metal part connected to a non-marring part. The metal part includes a metal plate with an outer perimeter, end portions and a center portion, and a slot in each end portion and a snap member fixed to the center portion. The non-marring part includes a tray with end and side walls. The end and side walls together defining an inner perimeter corresponding to and receiving the outer perimeter of the metal plate. A shelf extends side-to-side on an inner surface of each end wall, a plurality of locking tabs are on an inner surface of each side wall and at least one intermediate portion is connected to the inside surface of each side wall. The metal plate rests on the shelves and on the intermediate portion(s) and is being locked in the tray by the locking tabs. |
| US09486027B2 |
Connection assembly for adjoining a peripheral with a host wearable device
A connection assembly for adjoining a peripheral with a host wearable device. Embodiment of the assembly can be a hardhat with an accessory connection slot allowing for both mechanical and electrical attachment of various accessories such as earphones, video display, headlamp, welder's face shield. |
| US09486026B1 |
Personal air cooling visor clip-on
A device for attaching personal air cooling visor clip-on with a cooling 40×40×10 mm-5 volt battery pack/computer powered fan to cap or other head gear. The rigid rectangle plastic clip-on strap has holding cap clams, cable holding posts, 40×40×10 mm-5 volt fan, fan cable, fan cover, cable holding channel, usb wire and cable, fan cover tabs and fan tabs slots on the clip-on strap. The 40×40×10 mm-5 volt battery pack/computer powered fan is partially embedded into the plastic clip-on strap and secured by a fan cover using tabs with the connected fan and usb cables locking into and secured by channel holding posts in a channel. The strap is pushed onto a cap or headgear with the clams holding on top of the left and right top ends of the cap brim. |
| US09486020B2 |
Daily-use garment that converts into a personal flotation device
A daily-use garment that is substantially normal in appearance includes a head portion corresponding to a head region of a person, and a body portion corresponding to a torso of the person. The head region is configured to cover the head region of the person with a first flexible chamber positioned in the head portion. A second flexible chamber is positioned in the body portion. A fluid supply device of the daily-use garment includes a container configured to hold a fluid under pressure, a first activation member configured to open the container, and one of a conduit and a nozzle that supplies the fluid from the container. The fluid supply device opens the container and supplies the fluid to at least one of the first flexible chamber and the second flexible chamber, and the daily-use garment is converted from a first state to a second state. |
| US09486017B2 |
Anti-odor apparel
An anti-odor apparel includes: an upper body clothing that defines an open end; an extended sleeve stitched to the open end to form a loop-shaped sewing connection, the extended sleeve having a sleeve segment and an extension segment which respectively have lower end portions that are made from a functional fabric; and a lifting unit including an elastic string that has two connecting end portions and that extends along the loop-shaped sewing connection. The connecting end portions of the elastic string are held to the loop-shaped sewing connection such that the elastic string is held under tension so as to elastically lift at least one of the lower end portions of the sleeve segment and the extension segment toward the user's underarm area. |
| US09486015B2 |
Undergarment comprising sleeve pocket for tampon
An under pant garment is provided that includes a sleeve pocket. The sleeve pocket can have an opening and be configured to retain a tampon-with-applicator. The opening can be at least partially defined by an elastic member. The sleeve pocket can have a sleeve, and the sleeve can be secured to the under pant garment at the opening, at one or more other locations, or at the opening and at one or more other locations. The sleeve pocket can be reversible. The sleeve pocket can be positioned where the under pant garment is designed to contact the crease between a user's inner thigh and the user's abdomen. The sleeve pocket can be elongated along the crease. |
| US09486014B2 |
Electronic cigarette
An electronic cigarette includes an absorption stem and a power source stem; the absorption stem has a first and second absorption stem electrodes contained therein; the power source stem has a first and second power source stem electrodes contained therein; when the absorption stem and power source stem are connected with each other, the first absorption stem electrode is electrically connected to the first power source stem electrode, while the second absorption stem electrode is electrically connected to the second power source stem electrode. The absorption stem and power source stem are connected together by magnetic force absorption. The power source stem and absorption stem of the electronic cigarette of the present invention are connected with each other by means of magnetic force absorption, thus leading to easy assembling and disassembling, simple construction, easy repair and replacement, good electrical contact, and long lifetime. |
| US09486013B2 |
Segmented smoking article with foamed insulation material
A cigarette includes lighting and mouth ends. It may include a smokable segment disposed at the lighting end. It also includes a mouth-end segment; an aerosol-generation system disposed between the lighting and mouth ends, which includes (i) a heat-generation segment adjacent the smokable segment, including a heat source configured to be activated by combustion of a smokable material and an insulation layer of a non-glass material that is woven, knit, or both, and (ii) an aerosol-generating segment with aerosol-forming material disposed between, but physically separate from, each of the heat generation segment and the mouth end; a piece of outer wrapping material that provides an overwrap around at least a portion of the aerosol-generating segment, the heat-generation segment, and at least a portion of the smokable segment; those segments being connected together by the overwrap to provide a cigarette rod; that is connected to the cigarette rod using tipping material. |
| US09486012B2 |
Size-adaptable cigar splitter apparatus
An improved size adaptable cigar splitting apparatus comprising and outer body and an inner size adapting sleeve adapted to be slidingly engaged therewith and further comprising a cutting blade for splitting the wrapper and, if present, packaging of a cigar, cigarillo or other smoking device. In a preferred embodiment, the inner size adapting sleeve may be cylindrical in shape and is removable, allowing the invention to be adapted to various sizes of smoking devices. The cigar splitter apparatus of the invention is adapted to receive smoking devices of various diameters which include all common diameters of smoking devices currently in use. The improved size adaptable cigar splitter apparatus of the invention may further comprise a lanyard tang adapted to receive a necklace, lanyard, or similar structure to facilitate ease of carrying. |
| US09486010B2 |
Apparatus for inserting objects into a filter component of a smoking article
An apparatus and associated method is provided for forming a rod for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements. A continuous supply of a filter material is formed into a continuous filter rod by a rod-forming unit. An object insertion unit is configured to insert a plurality of first objects and a plurality of second objects into the continuous filter rod. A rod-dividing unit is configured to subdivide the continuous filter rod, at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis thereof, into a plurality of filter rod portions such that each filter rod portion includes at least one first object and at least one second object disposed therein, with the first objects being different from the second objects. |
| US09486005B2 |
Agents and mechanisms for treating hypercholesterolemia
A method of treating hypercholesterolemia in mammals, by administering an effective amount of a microbial fermentation product, and regulating genes involved in lipoprotein metabolism. A method of regulating cholesterol levels in a patient by administering an effective amount of a composition chosen from the group consisting of PAZ, specific components isolated from PAZ, chemically synthesized analogs of the components of PAZ, and regulating genes involved in lipoprotein metabolism. A method of treating high cholesterol levels in an individual by administering an effective amount of a microbial fermentation product, up-regulating the expression of at least one of the genes that encode ABCA1, ApoA1, and SRB1, and down-regulating the gene that encodes CETP. A method of preventing the onset of high cholesterol levels and/or a deleterious lipoprotein profile in an individual. |
| US09486001B2 |
Compositions and methods for inhibiting potato pathogens
This application relates to compositions and methods for inhibiting the growth of potato pathogens preventing disease during post-harvest storage and processing conditions. |
| US09486000B2 |
Grilltop smoker box
Disclosed herein is a grilltop smoker box designed to sit atop a cooking grid of a barbecue grill. The grilltop smoker box has a base with an aperture and a cover that covers the base. The cover and base define a space or cavity for the accumulation of smoke. The cover also comprises a port that is positioned above the base for the exit of smoke, and an outlet for directing smoke to food on a cooking grid of a barbecue grill. Embodiments of the invention may comprise other optional features. |
| US09485996B2 |
Game dressing tool
A game dressing device, in one embodiment, comprising at least two legs, each coupled to at least one hook. A spring member that is configured to engage a portion of each of the legs and define a compressed state and an uncompressed state. |
| US09485987B2 |
Aqueous suspended agricultural chemical composition
The present invention provides an aqueous suspended agricultural chemical composition comprising an agricultural chemical active ingredient, an alkyl naphthalene sulfonate formalin condensate and one or two or more compounds selected from the group consisting of an alkyl sulfate, a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether sulfate, an alkyl phosphoric acid and a salt thereof, a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether phosphoric acid and a salt thereof, and a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether acetic acid and a salt thereof. The aqueous suspended agricultural chemical composition suppresses the crystal growth of the agricultural chemical active ingredient, and has an excellent effect on pest control and an excellent storage stability. |
| US09485986B2 |
Evaporation operative materials having low environmental impact
A composition comprising: (a) at least one active component; and (b) a carrier in an amount effective to at least partially solvate or at least partially emulsify said active component, said carrier comprising monochloro,trifluoropropene. |
| US09485984B2 |
Method of preparing oocytes, embryos, or blastocysts for cryopreservation
An automated system and method of cryopreservation of oocytes, embryos, or blastocysts. The method entails delivering two or more solutions into a container holding oocytes, embryos, or blastocysts, and controlling the flow of the solutions to gradually change the concentration of cryoprotectants and dehydrating agents in the container to minimize shock to the oocytes, embryos or blastocysts. |
| US09485983B2 |
Use of connexin channel inhibitors to protect grafts
This disclosure relates to methods to protect grafts against cell death due to preservation of the grafts prior to transplanting these grafts into patients. In particular, this disclosure discloses that connexin channel inhibitors can be used to protect against cell death associated with preservation and temporary storage of cells, tissues and organs. Preservation includes any procedure that involves a lowering of the temperature below the normal body temperature, including hypothermia (cold storage), cryopreservation and vitrification. Grafts that are protected according to this disclosure have an improved biological function. |
| US09485969B2 |
Air directing assembly for a beekeeping smoker assembly
Improved air directing assemblies are provided. More particularly, the present disclosure provides improved air directing assemblies for use with beekeeping smoker assemblies or the like. The present disclosure provides for an air directing assembly that provides or blows a constant, continuous and/or directed stream of air into and/or to a smoker assembly, thereby providing a sufficient/adequate and/or improved amount of smoke to the bees, which thereby keeps the bees calm when the hive is open by the user. The air directing assemblies of the present disclosure prevent the fire in a smoker assembly from going out, and they can replace the pumps/bellows typically associated with smoker assemblies. These improved air directing assemblies can be modified to mount with respect to and/or be utilized with a wide variety of smoker assemblies or the like. |
| US09485963B2 |
Assisted animal activities
Among other things, artifacts are presented to an animal through a device. The artifacts represent a thing to be learned by the animal and from which the animal can interpret the thing that is to be learned. Artifacts are received from the animal through a device. The received artifacts represent whether the animal has learned the thing. The artifacts are interpreted to infer an extent to which the animal has learned the thing. The animal is rewarded through a device based on the extent to which animal has learned the thing. |
| US09485958B2 |
Facility for handling lactating animals and method of operating same
Facility for lactating animals includes pens in a freestall barn and a milking parlor where animals from the pens are simultaneously milked while separated. The number of animals from different pens in milking stalls is changed by sliding a parlor barrier past entrances and exits of parlor stalls. Each pen includes bedding free stalls, an alley accessible by the animals as they enter and leave the free stalls, and a movable barrier traversing the accessible alley. The pen barrier assures that animals go to the milking parlor. Paths cause animals in a first pen, prior to milking, to return to the first pen after milking while preventing animals in other pens, prior to milking, from entering the first pen after milking. There are separate return alleys to each pen from separate parlor exits. The pen barrier prevents animals from occupying stalls it passes and refurbishes these stalls. |
| US09485955B2 |
System and method of attaching cups to a dairy animal
A robotic attacher retrieves a preparation cup from the right side of an equipment area located behind a dairy livestock and attaches and detaches the preparation cup to the teats of the dairy livestock in sequence. The sequence comprises attaching and detaching the preparation cup to the left front teat, the right front teat, the right rear teat, and the left rear teat. |
| US09485950B1 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH089236
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH089236. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH089236, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH089236 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH089236. |
| US09485949B1 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH085430
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH085430. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH085430, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH085430 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH085430. |
| US09485940B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV028364
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV028364. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV028364, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV028364 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV028364 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV028364. |
| US09485935B1 |
Soybean variety XB29AM14
A novel soybean variety, designated XB29AM14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB29AM14, cells from soybean variety XB29AM14, plants of soybean XB29AM14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB29AM14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB29AM14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB29AM14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB29AM14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB29AM14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB29AM14 are further provided. |
| US09485934B1 |
Soybean variety XB03Q14
A novel soybean variety, designated XB03Q14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB03Q14, cells from soybean variety XB03Q14, plants of soybean XB03Q14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB03Q14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB03Q14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB03Q14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB03Q14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB03Q14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB03Q14 are further provided. |
| US09485933B2 |
Soybean variety XBO2J14
A novel soybean variety, designated XB02J14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB02J14, cells from soybean variety XB02J14, plants of soybean XB02J14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB02J14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB02J14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB02J14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB02J14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB02J14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB02J14 are further provided. |
| US09485930B1 |
Soybean variety XB35W13
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated XB35W13. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety XB35W13. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety XB35W13 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety XB35W13 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09485929B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH098516
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH098516. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH098516, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH098516 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH098516. |
| US09485924B1 |
Planting apparatus, system, and related methods
A planting apparatus and related methods and systems are disclosed. The planting apparatus includes a first container holding a quantity of liquid. A second container is positioned above the first container, the second container having a hole positioned in a lower portion thereof. A filter container is positioned on the second container, the filter container having at least one of: a seed and a plant. A wicking material is positioned between the filter container and the second container, through the hole in the lower portion of the second container, and into the first container, wherein the wicking material is in contact with the quantity of liquid. |
| US09485922B2 |
Marking device and harvesting arrangement for tree harvesting
The invention relates to a marking device for applying a code marking on a piece of wood. The marking device comprises several adjustable marking members, each of which comprising a marking element which is capable of applying a mark on a piece of wood and which is shiftable between different positions or states so as to allow a variation of the code marking to be applied by the marking device. At least one of said marking members (170) comprises a rotatable marking element (171), which is arranged to apply a rotationally unsymmetrical mark on a piece of wood and which is settable in different rotational positions in relation to the marking elements of the other marking members. The invention also relates to a harvesting arrangement for tree harvesting comprising such a marking device. |
| US09485921B1 |
Box-like enclosure for transportation of cut flowers and plants in containers
A box-like enclosure for transporting cut flowers and plants is provided. The box has an upper wall, four side walls, and an open lower end. The box can be of predetermined cross-sectional dimensions sized to receive a container for holding cut flowers with a clearance fit. The box can a plurality of openings for increased air flow within the box and for a user to engage with their hands when moving the box alone or the box and enclosed container. An air gap is provided above the top of the flowers. The enclosure can be made as a flat blank of suitable water-resistant material which can easily be assembled when needed. |
| US09485920B2 |
Plant illumination device and method for dark growth chambers
An improved method to produce artificial light for plant cultivation, an illumination device with a semiconductor light emission solution and device suited for plant cultivation in a greenhouse and/or dark growth chamber environment are described. The best mode is considered to be a lighting device with LEDs that produces an emission spectrum similar to the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) spectrum in a dark growth chamber. The methods and arrangements allow more precise spectral tuning of the emission spectrum for lights used in plant (310, 311) cultivation. Therefore unexpected improvements in the photomorphogenetic control of plant growth, and further improvements in plant production, especially in dark growth chambers, such as basements, are realized. |
| US09485919B2 |
Multicolor light emitting diode lamp for plant growth, illumination apparatus, and plant growth method
A multicolor light emitting diode lamp includes a blue LED and a AlGaInP-based red LED having high luminescence efficiency, balancing with the blue LED are mounted in the same package. The red LED includes a light emitting section including a light emitting layer having a composition formula, (AlXGa1-X)YIn1-YP (0≦X≦1 and 0 |
| US09485918B2 |
Treatment system to prolong life of cut flowers
The present disclosure relates to prolonging shelf life of cut flowers, especially during transport, as well as enhancing physical appearance and sensory characteristics of cut flowers, by treatment systems and devices that modify the atmosphere over a longer period of time in containers in which the cut flowers are transported or stored. |
| US09485916B2 |
Agricultural baler needle stabilizer
An agricultural baler including a base unit, a plurality of ground engaging devices supporting the base unit and at least one tie system mounted to the base unit. The at least one tie system including a needle moveable relative to the base unit and a needle stabilizer. The needle stabilizer attached to the base unit with the needle stabilizer contacting the needle over a portion of the movement of the needle. |
| US09485913B2 |
Converging drum and stripper arrangement
A mowing implement includes an improved crop and forage material converging arrangement for a wide mowing implement equipped with a rotary cutter bar and powered converging drums. One or more stripper elements are mounted for rotation with one or more converging drums so as to limit the tendency for cut material to wrap around the converging drums, and to more consistently transfer the cut material to the material discharge zone. Each stripper element can be located and dimensioned to sweep a path a near an adjacent converging drum and pass in close proximity to an auger of the mowing implement to effectively guide and converge material. Each stripper elements can be an oblong plate configured and arranged to strip cut material from an adjacent converging drum and deflect the stripped material towards a material discharge zone of the implement. |
| US09485908B2 |
Secondary cutting device arrangement for an agricultural harvesting machine
An agricultural machine suitable for the harvesting of grain-like crops, comprising a header, the header comprising a first cutting device whose position is determined by the adjustable height of the header, and a second cutting device, comprising a knife drum that is rotatably mounted in a housing, which via rollers or equivalent supports can move over the ground at different heights of the header, and wherein the housing of the knife drum on the back of the header is connected via at least two coupling systems, each of these systems comprising a lower and an upper support arm pivotally connected to the header, and with the housing of the knife drum, whereby the position of the housing remains substantially unaltered by the different height settings of the header. |
| US09485905B2 |
Harvester with predictive ground speed regulation
A combine harvester (10), has driven wheels or tracks (14) for moving the combine harvester; a system for detecting characteristics of crop plants (96) in front of the combine harvester and for calculating an expected mass throughput of the combine harvester from the detected physical characteristics; an electronic control (80), configured to control the ground speed of the combine harvester to maintain a desired mass throughput of the combine harvester in consideration of the expected mass throughput of the combine harvester; and a sensor (86) for detecting a combine harvester parameter that is indicative of an actual mass throughput of the combine harvester; wherein the electronic control is configured to compare an output value of the sensor to a value indicating the expected mass throughput and to use a result of the comparison as feedback to control the speed of the combine harvester. |
| US09485902B2 |
Device for dispensing seeds singly
A device is provided for dispensing seeds singly. The device includes a drum, a dispensing disc, a vacuum chamber and a seal of the vacuum chamber, between the drum and the disc. The seal includes a friction insert mounted so as to be immobile in rotation relative to the drum against the periphery of the disc and an elastic seal mounted so as to be immobile in rotation between the drum and the friction insert. The elastic seal maintains the friction insert in a position of leaning against the disc. |
| US09485901B2 |
Drill/planter blade with concave edge
A seed planting apparatus has a first disc is rotatably disposed about a first axis which is substantially perpendicular to a line of travel. A following trenching device has a second disc rotatably attached along a second axis transverse to the line of travel but not parallel to the first axis. A third disc is rotatably attached along a third axis which is transverse to the line of travel but not parallel to either the first axis or the second axis. At least one of the first, second and third discs has a first side has an outer periphery and a second side has an outer periphery. The second side is spaced from the first side and has a larger diameter than the first side. A transition surface between the outer periphery of the first side and the outer periphery of the second side being annular and concave. |
| US09485900B2 |
Agricultural implement plug detection
A plug detection system for an agricultural implement with a ground-engaging tool may include a rotational speed sensor, a ground speed sensing system, and a controller. The rotational speed sensor may be configured to detect a rotational speed of the ground-engaging tool. The ground speed sensing system may be configured to detect a ground speed of the agricultural implement. The controller may be in communication with the rotational speed sensor and the ground speed sensing system and may be configured to determine a threshold rotational speed based on the ground speed and send an alert signal when the rotational speed is below the threshold rotational speed. |
| US09485897B2 |
Assembly for attaching a replaceable wearing part to an implement
An assembly for attaching a replaceable wearing part to a leading edge of an implement includes a wearing-part holder configured to be received and fixed to a supporting surface formed at the leading edge of the implement and a replaceable wearing part. One of the wearing-part holder and the wearing part forms an attachment projection and the other of the wearing-part holder and the wearing part forms a corresponding socket. The attachment projection and the socket are provided with corresponding, cooperating guide portions. The guide portions of the wearing-part holder are formed as guide faces racing the supporting surface and being slanted relative to the supporting surfaces in a direction falling when moving away from the leading edge. |
| US09491894B2 |
Manufacturing method of cover structure
A method of manufacturing a cover structure is provided. A first insulating layer is provided. The first insulating layer has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. A second insulating layer is provided. The second insulating layer has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to each other and an opening passing through the third surface and the fourth surface. A thickness of the second insulating layer is greater than a thickness of the first insulating layer. The first insulating layer and the second insulating layer are laminated to each other, so that the third surface of the second insulating layer connects to the second surface of the first insulating layer. A cavity is defined by the opening of the second insulating layer and the first insulating layer. A metal layer is formed on the cavity. |
| US09491893B2 |
Display device
A display device, comprising a display panel, a back surface enclosure disposed on a back surface side of the display panel and comprising a concave portion formed in a concave shape on a display panel side, and a heat generating component disposed between the display panel and the back surface enclosure, wherein the concave portion comprises a plurality of holes that release heat from the heat generating component to an outside of the display device. |
| US09491892B1 |
Electronic device cooling system with storage
Cooling systems for providing cooled air to electronic equipment are described. The systems can include large storage tanks or waste treatment systems to improve the efficiency of the plant and reduce impact on the environment. |
| US09491886B1 |
Compute and networking function consolidation
An apparatus for compute and networking operation in a rack-mounted device are provided herein. An exemplary apparatus may include a compute substrate, a networking substrate, and a bridge substrate. The compute substrate may include a processor, and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor. The networking substrate may be separate from the compute substrate and include control processor, and an Ethernet switch communicatively coupled to the control processor. The bridge substrate may be communicatively coupled to the compute substrate and the networking substrate, and include at least two high-speed signal traces, the high-speed signal traces being at least one differential pair, the high-speed signal traces being communicatively coupled to the compute substrate and the networking substrate. |
| US09491885B2 |
Multiple drive sled in a storage array
An apparatus as associated method contemplating a housing and a midplane supported by the housing having a midplane connector. A printed circuit board (PCB) having a PCB connector is selectively connectable to the midplane connector. A plurality of data storage devices are arranged on the printed circuit board in a staggered pattern, each electrically connected to the PCB connector via a respective electrical trace in the PCB. |
| US09491883B2 |
Connector with ejector mechanism reinforcement
A connector includes a housing for insertion and ejection of a device, and an ejection mechanism. The ejection mechanism includes a rod member able to slide in the directions of device insertion and ejection. The rod member includes a main body portion extending in the directions of insertion and ejection, an operating piece connected to a protruding end of the main body portion protruding from the housing and extending in a direction intersecting the insert and ejection directions, and a reinforcing portion connected to the main body portion in front of the protruding end in the insertion direction and able to support the operating piece from the front in the insertion direction. The reinforcing portion includes a supporting end able to support the operating piece from the front in the insertion direction. The supporting end extends in a direction intersecting the length direction of the operating piece. |
| US09491880B2 |
Circuit assembly for compact acoustic device
A circuit assembly (600) includes a printed circuit board assembly (100). The printed circuit board assembly includes a first circuit board (101), a second circuit board (102), and a first flexible substrate (103) interposed between, and continuous with, the first circuit board and the second circuit board. A second flexible substrate (108) extends from, and is continuous with, the second circuit board. One or more electronic circuits comprising electronic components (301,302,303,304,305) are disposed along one or more of the first circuit board or the second circuit board. The printed circuit board assembly is folded about a battery (601), with the first circuit board adjacent to the first major face, the second circuit board adjacent to the second major face, and the first flexible substrate spanning the one or more side faces. |
| US09491878B2 |
Electronic device with protective case and operating method thereof
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a connector detachable from part of an electronic device including a display, and a cover connected to the connector, wherein the cover is capable of covering at least part of the display of the electronic device, and wherein the cover includes a window configured to expose the at least part of the display when the cover covers at least part of the display. |
| US09491874B2 |
Display apparatus
There is provided a display apparatus including a display that has a display face on which an image is displayed, a back chassis that is disposed on a side opposite to the display face of the display, and a cover film that is positioned in a state in which the cover film reaches the back chassis from the display face, one end of the cover film being attached to at least a portion of an outer circumferential portion of the display. The display is held by the cover film. |
| US09491868B2 |
Conductive resin composition, method for manufacturing electronic component using same, bonding method, bonding structure, and electronic component
A conductive resin composition which includes (a) a curable resin and (b) hard spherical carbon formed by coating the surface of a spherical base carbon particle with fine carbon particles and/or pitch-derived fine carbon pieces is used to electrically bond two conductive elements. The conductive resin composition is supplied to a space between areas of at least two works respectively having the areas to be electrically connected to each other, and the conductive resin composition is cured while applying a pressure between the areas. |
| US09491867B2 |
Wiring substrate and multi-piece wiring substrate
A wiring substrate includes: a substrate body made of ceramic and having a front surface and a rear surface, each having a rectangular shape in a plan view, a plurality of rear surface electrodes formed on the rear surface of the substrate body, a frame-shaped conductive portion provided on the front surface side of the substrate body, and a via conductor penetrating the substrate body and establishing electric connection between the plurality of rear surface electrodes and the frame-shaped conductive portion. A part of the rear surface is exposed between the plurality of rear surface electrodes and each side of the rear surface of the substrate body. On the rear surface of the substrate body, at least one projecting wiring is formed between each of the plurality of rear surface electrodes and each of a corresponding pair of the sides that intersect with each other. |
| US09491866B2 |
Method for manufacturing a printed circuit board
Provided is a method for manufacturing a printed circuit board. The method for manufacturing a printed circuit board includes preparing an insulation board, irradiating a laser onto a graytone mask to each a surface of the insulation board, thereby forming a circuit pattern groove and a via hole at the same time, and filling the circuit pattern groove and the via hole to form a buried circuit pattern and the via. Thus, the circuit pattern groove and the via hole may be formed using the graytone mask at the same time without perfolining a separate process for forming the via hole. Therefore, the manufacturing process may be simplified to reduce the manufacturing costs. |
| US09491862B2 |
Method for producing a printed circuit board consisting of at least two printed circuit board regions, and printed circuit board
In a method for producing a printed circuit board consisting of at least two printed circuit regions, wherein the printed circuit board regions each comprise at least one conductive layer and/or at least one device or one conductive component, wherein printed circuit board regions to be connected to one another, in the region of in each case at least one lateral surface directly adjoining one another, are connected to one another by a coupling or connection, and wherein, after a coupling or connection of printed circuit board regions, at least one additional layer or ply of the printed circuit board is applied over the printed circuit board regions, the additional layer is embodied as a conductive layer, which is contact-connected via plated-through holes to conductive layers or devices or components integrated in the printed circuit board regions. |
| US09491859B2 |
Grid arrays with enhanced fatigue life
Reliability is improved for the mechanical electrical connection formed between a grid array device, such as a pin grid array device (PGA) or a column grid array device (CGA), and a substrate such as a printed circuit board (PCB). Between adjacent PCB pads, a spacing pattern increases toward the periphery of the CGA, creating a misalignment between pads and columns. As part of the assembly method, columns align with the pads, resulting in column tilt that increases from the center to the periphery of the CGA. An advantage of this tilt is that it reduces the amount of contractions and expansions of columns during thermal cycling, thereby increasing the projected life of CGA. Another advantage of the method is that it reduces shear stress, further increasing the projected life of the CGA. |
| US09491858B2 |
Circuit board
This wiring board is provided with: a plurality of metal wires disposed upon an insulating substrate; and a transparent adhesive agent layer which is disposed upon the metal wires, and which is in direct contact with the metal wires. The metal wires include: a first metal wire which has a pulse signal supplied thereto; and a second metal wire which has a fixed electric potential applied thereto. The pulse signal has a reference level identical to the fixed electric potential, and has a pulse train in which a plurality of pulses having a pulse width of not more than 3 msec are arranged, the integral time of the pulses in a period of 600 seconds being less than 60 seconds. |
| US09491847B2 |
Multilayer ceramic electronic component and board having the same
A multilayer ceramic electronic component includes: a board including first and second contact terminals disposed on one surface thereof to be spaced apart from each other and first and second external terminals disposed on the other surface thereof to be spaced apart from each other; a multilayer ceramic capacitor including first and second external electrodes including first and second connection portions disposed on opposite end surfaces of a ceramic body and first and second band portions extending from the first and second connection portions to portions of one surface of the ceramic body and connected to the first and second contact terminals, respectively; a sealing part enclosing the multilayer ceramic capacitor on the board while exposing one ends of the first and second contact terminals; and first and second connection terminals connecting the ends of the first and second contact terminals to the first and second external terminals, respectively. |
| US09491832B2 |
Electrically illuminated flame simulator
An electrically powered flame simulator comprises at least two light sources, an integrated circuit electrically connected to the light sources for intermittently illuminating at least one of the light sources independently of other light sources such that the light sources together provide the effect of a flickering movement, and a power source for providing power to the integrated circuit. The flame simulator may be mounted in a decorative or ornamental device such as a candle or fire log, or used on decorative clothing, or may be part of a hazard or warning system. One or more solid state light sources may also be used. |
| US09491830B2 |
Compensation unit and organic light emitting display including the same
A compensation unit includes a current source unit, a current sink unit, a sensing resistor, a comparator, and a memory. The current source unit is configured to supply a first reference current to a first node. The current sink unit is configured to sink a second reference current from the first node. The sensing resistor is coupled between the first node and a second node. The comparator is configured to: compare a voltage at the first node with a voltage at the second node, and output a comparison result signal based on the comparison. The memory unit is configured to: store compensation data related to operational disparity of at least one organic light emitting diode and/or of at least one driving transistor, output the compensation data, and modify the compensation data based on the comparison result signal. |
| US09491827B2 |
Methods and apparatus for controlling lighting
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for lighting control. Presence of a lighting control element (110, 310, 312A-C, 510, 512, 610, 710, 915, 917) is identified over one or more LEDs (323, 327, 930) and at least one lighting control property of the lighting control element is identified. At least one property of light output of controlled light sources associated with the lighting control element is adjusted based on the lighting control property of the lighting control element. The lighting control element may be a user interface element. |
| US09491825B2 |
LED lighting device
An LED lighting device comprises: a rectification circuit unit for receiving input power from a power source unit and outputting a rectified power; an LED unit having a plurality of LED channels connected in series and a resistor unit connected to the last end of the LED channels; a current sensing resistor; and a switch circuit unit comprising a plurality of switches, wherein an nth switch is connected to the rear end of an nth LED channel so as to control an operation of the nth LED channel and is controlled by a sum of a current of the nth switch and a current of an (n+1)th switch, which flows through the current sensing resistor. |
| US09491822B2 |
LED driver with adaptive dynamic headroom voltage control
A multi-channel LED driver includes a plurality of linear current regulators, each connected to a bottom of a string of series connected LEDs of a multi-channel LED that controls a bias current and the string of series connected LEDs responsive to an LED bias reference voltage. A dynamic headroom regulation voltage control circuit monitors the headroom regulation voltage at the bottom of each string of the series connected LEDs in the multi-channel LED and generates a reference voltage controlling each of the headroom regulation voltages responsive to the LED bias reference voltage. |
| US09491821B2 |
AC-powered LED light engine
AC LED light engines powered directly from the AC power line contain circuitry of resistors, capacitors, diodes and transistors which enables a single string LEDs connected to series to efficiently produce light with a relatively low level of flicker as perceived by the human eye. The LEDs are driven by a current which is alternately capacitively-limited and resistively-limited. Capacitively-limited pulses of current are interposed between resistively-limited pulses of current so that the resulting output current ripple is at frequencies of 240 Hz or above which the human eye cannot perceive. The combination of resistively-limited current and capacitively-limited current results in a current drain from the power line which is generally sinusoidal and can have a power factor in excess of 0.70. |
| US09491819B2 |
Hysteretic power factor control method for single stage power converters
In one aspect, a switching power converter is described that includes a transformer, a switch, and a controller that generates a control signal to turn on and turn off the switch. For each alternating current (AC) half-cycle of an input voltage, the controller determines a minimum value of a signal representing an on-time of the power converter, compares the determined minimum value with a threshold value that is used to determine whether the switching power converter operates in a constant on-time mode or in a constant power mode, and adjusts the threshold value based on a result of the comparison. The controller further generates the control signal to operate the switching power converter in a constant power mode during a first time period of the AC half-cycle, the first time period representing a duration where the threshold value is larger than an instantaneous value of the first signal. |