Document Document Title
US09499533B2 Aromatic 5-membered heterocyclic derivative having TRPV4-Inhibiting activity
The present invention is related to a compound represented by formula (I) wherein R1 is a hydrogen atom, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aromatic carbocyclyl, or the like; X is —N(R3)—, —O—, or —S—; Y is ═C(R4)—, or ═N—; Z is —N(R7)—, —O—, or —S—; R2 is substituted or unsubstituted alkyloxy, or the like, or a group represented by the following formula: —(CR2aR2b)n—R2c, wherein R2a is each independently a hydrogen atom, halogen, or the like; R2b is each independently a hydrogen atom, halogen, or the like; R2a and R2b which are attached to the same carbon atom may be taken together to form oxo, a substituted or unsubstituted non-aromatic carbocycle, or the like; two of R2a which are attached to the adjacent carbon atoms and/or two of R2b which are attached to the adjacent carbon atoms may be taken together to form a bond; R2c is substituted or unsubstituted aromatic carbocyclyl, or the like; n is an integer from 1 to 3; R3 and R7 are each independently a hydrogen atom, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, or the like; R4 and R5 are each independently a hydrogen atom, halogen, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, or the like; R6 is a hydrogen atom, halogen, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, or the like, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a pharmaceutical composition comprising thereof.
US09499530B2 Quinazoline derivative, composition having the derivative, and use of the derivative in preparing medicament
A class of quinazoline derivatives or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof with novel structures is provided; meanwhile, a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically effective amount of said quinazoline derivatives or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof, and pharmaceutically acceptable excipients or additives is also provided. By modifying and transforming the quinazoline and screening of the transformed compounds on the activity of tyrosine kinase inhibition, most of the compounds have been found to possess inhibitory activity against one or several of EGFR, VEGFR-2, c-erbB-2, c-erbB-4, c-met, tie-2, PDGFR, c-src, lck, Zap70 and fyn kinases. The present invention has the advantages of reasonable design, broad source of and easy access to the raw materials, simple and easy operation of the preparation methods, mild reaction conditions, high yield of the products and being beneficial for industrial-scale production.
US09499525B2 Dihydrate of benzothiophene compound or of a salt thereof, and process for producing the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a compound that can be used as a more superior therapeutic agent for central nervous system diseases. The present invention provides a dihydrate of 7-[4-(4-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-piperazin-1-yl)butoxy]-1H-quinolin-2-one or of a salt thereof, and a process for producing the same.
US09499522B2 Compositions useful for treating disorders related to kit
Compounds and compositions useful for treating disorders related to Kit are described herein.
US09499518B2 Bis-quaternary ammonium salts as pain modulating agents
Provided are methods for using bis-quaternary ammonium compounds to treat inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain and nociceptive pain.
US09499510B2 Pro-drug compounds
A compound of formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: wherein Z1, Z2, and Z3, Q, R2, A, and R1 are as defined in the claims.
US09499502B2 5-substituted iminothiazines and their mono- and dioxides as BACE inhibitors, compositions, and their use
The present invention discloses certain iminothiazine compounds and mono- and dioxides thereof, including compounds Formula (I): and tautomers and stereoisomers thereof, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of said compounds, said tautomers and said stereoisomers, wherein each of variables shown in the formula are as defined herein. The compounds of the invention may be useful as BACE inhibitors and/or for the treatment and prevention of various pathologies related thereto. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more such compounds (alone and in combination with one or more other active agents), and methods for their preparation and uses, including Alzheimer's disease, are also disclosed.
US09499498B2 Process for the preparation of triazine carbamates
This invention relates to a process for the preparation of triazine carbamates by reacting a mixture of an aminotriazine A having at least two amino groups per molecule, an organic carbonate C which is preferably an acyclic carbonate, and a mixture B of bases comprising at least two basic metal compounds B1 and B2 individually selected from the group consisting of hydrides, amides, alkoxides, and arylalkoxides of metals, wherein the metal in B1 is not the same as the metal in B2.
US09499497B2 Compounds useful as inhibitors of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). The invention also relates to pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of this invention; methods of treating of various diseases, disorders, and conditions using the compounds of this invention; processes for preparing the compounds of this invention; intermediates for the preparation of the compounds of this invention; and methods of using the compounds in in vitro applications.The compounds of this invention have formula I-A: wherein the variables are as defined herein.
US09499492B2 4-(ortho)-fluorophenyl-5-fluoropyrimidin-2-yl amines containing a sulfoximine group
The present invention relates to 4-(ortho)-fluorophenyl-5-fluoropyrimidin-2-yl amine derivatives containing a sulfoximine group of general formula (I) as described and defined herein, and methods for their preparation, their use for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of disorders, in particular of hyper-proliferative disorders and/or virally induced infectious diseases and/or of cardiovascular diseases. The invention further relates to intermediate compounds useful in the preparation of said compounds of general formula (I).
US09499488B2 Vitamin D receptor agonists and uses thereof
This invention features vitamin D receptor agonists, and their use in treating bone disorders, cardiovascular disease, hyperparathyroidism, immune disorders, proliferative disease, renal disease, and thrombosis.
US09499483B2 Crystal of pyrrole derivative and method for producing the same
The present invention provides a production intermediate of an atropisomer of a pyrrole derivative having excellent mineralocorticoid receptor antagonistic activity, a method for producing the same, and a crystal thereof. A method for producing an atropisomer of a pyrrole derivative including a step of resolving a compound represented by the following general formula (I) [wherein R1 represents a methyl group or a trifluoromethyl group, R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-C3 alkoxy group, and n represents an integer selected from 1 to 3] into its atropisomers, characterized by using an optically active amine having a cinchonine skeletal formula, and a crystal of (S)-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-4-methyl-N-[4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-5-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxamide.
US09499481B2 Method for preparing lactames, comprising a photonitrosation step, followed by a Beckmann transposition step
The invention relates to a method for preparing lactames, according to which a photonitrosation of a cycloalkane is carried out using nitrosyl chloride (NOCI). According to the invention, said photonitrosation is carried out by means of LEDs emitting a monochromatic light. The method according to the invention can also include a step comprising Beckmann transposition/dechlorination of the oxime hydrochloride generated during said phonitrosation, preferably carried out in a glass microreactor.
US09499480B2 Methods, compounds, compositions and vehicles for delivering 3-amino-1-propanesulfonic acid
The invention relates to methods, compounds, compositions and vehicles for delivering 3-amino-1-propanesulfonic acid (3APS) in a subject, preferably a human subject. The invention encompasses compound that will yield or generate 3APS, either in vitro or in vivo. Preferred compounds include amino acid prodrugs of 3APS for use, including but not limited to the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
US09499479B2 Molecules that selectively inhibit histone deacetylase 6 relative to histone deacetylase 1
This invention provides a compound having the structure: wherein R1 is H, halogen, —NR5R6, —NR5—C(═O)—R6, —NH—C(═O)—OR7, —OR7, —NO2, —CN, —SR7, —SO2R7, —CO2R7, CF3, —SOR7, —POR7, —C(═S)R7, —C(═O)—NR5R6, —CH2—C(═O)—NR5R6, —C(═NR5)R6, —P(═O)(OR5)(OR6), —P(OR5)(OR6), —C(═S)R7, C1-5 alkyl, C2-5 alkenyl, C2-5 alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl, wherein R5, R6, and R7 and are each, independently, H, C1-5 alkyl, C2-5 alkenyl, C2-5 alkynyl, heteroalkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl; m is an integer from 0 to 2; R2 and R3 are each, independently, H, halogen, —NH2, —CX3, —C(═O)OR8, C(═O)R8, —C(═O)NR9R10, C1-10 alkyl, C2-10 alkenyl, C2-10 alkynyl, heteroalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl; wherein X is Cl, Br, or F; R8, R9 and R10 are each, independently, H, C1-5 alkyl, C2-5 alkenyl, C2-5 alkynyl, heteroalkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl; Q is —Ar1—Z— or —Z—Ar1—Z—, wherein Ar1 is aryl or heteroaryl; and each occurrence of Z is independently present or absent, and when present is —O—, —S—, —CH2—, —C(O)— —NH—, —NH—NH—, —NHC(═O)—, —C(═O)NH—, —NHC(═O)CH2NH—, —NHC(═O)CH2C(═O)—, —N(OH)—, —CH2CH2— or —NHC(═O)CH═CH—; and R4 is alkyl, —OR11 or —NH—OR11, wherein R11 is H, C1-10 alkyl, C2-10 alkenyl, C2-10 alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl, and when Q is —Ar1—Z—, Z is absent, Ar1 is phenyl, R2 and R3 are H, n=1, and R4 is —NHOH, then R1 is other than carbazole, tetrahydro-β-carboline, tetrahydro-γ-carboline, —C(═O)—NR5R6 and —NR5—C(═O)—R6, wherein one of R5 or R6 is quinoline and the other of R5 or R6 is H; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US09499477B2 Hydroxamic acid derivative
Provided is a novel compound which is useful as a pharmaceutical composition by inhibiting an LpxC activity, thereby exhibiting potent antimicrobial activity against gram-negative bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and its drug resistant bacteria. Provided is a hydroxamic acid derivative represented by the following general formula [1] or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US09499471B2 Biphenyl compounds for use in treating malaria and other parasitic disorders
The present invention relates to a compound of formula (I) as defined herein.
US09499469B2 Production method of ketomalonic acid compound
Provided is a method for producing an industrially useful ketomalonic acid compound such as ketomalinic acid diesters, or a hydrate thereof, by a method more favorable from an economic and environmental standpoint and from a safety standpoint. The present invention relates to a method involving reacting a malonic acid compound represented by general formula (1) (in the formula, The each Rs indicate an alkyl group, a cycloalkyl group, etc.) with chlorine dioxide to produce a ketomalonic acid compound represented by the general formula (2) (in the formula, R has the same meaning as above), or a hydrate thereof.
US09499466B2 Diene-based carboxylate anion and salt thereof, and polymerizable or curable composition thereof
The claimed invention provides a novel compound not having been studied before, that is, a diene carboxylate anion that contains a specific structure, and a salt thereof. The claimed invention further provides a diene carboxylate anion and a salt thereof, especially a metal salt thereof, which are easily soluble in general organic solvents, reactive diluents, and resins, may be in a liquid state at normal temperature depending on the structure, and have high polymerizability. Polymerization/curing of these produces a resin to which many ionic bonds and a metal are introduced, providing various properties such as hardness, scratch resistance, anti-fingerprint property, gas-barrier property, water vapor barrier property, oxygen absorption property, ultraviolet protection, infrared protection, color development and coloring, high refractive index, adhesion, various catalytic abilities, fluorescence ability and light-emitting ability, optical amplification, dispersibility, and antistatic properties. In addition, the anion and the salt can be used for raw materials for functional fine particles and for metal nanoparticle composites, and also for MOD materials. The claimed invention also provides an advantageous method for producing the diene carboxylate anion and the salt thereof.
US09499461B2 Pharmaceutical compositions comprising POH derivatives
The present invention provides for a derivative of monoterpene or sesquiterpene, such as a perillyl alcohol derivative. For example, the perillyl alcohol derivative may be a perillyl alcohol carbamate. The perillyl alcohol derivative may be perillyl alcohol conjugated with a therapeutic agent such as a chemotherapeutic agent. The present invention also provides for a method of treating a disease such as cancer, comprising the step of delivering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of a derivative of monoterpene (or sesquiterpene). The route of administration may vary, and can include, inhalation, intranasal, oral, transdermal, intravenous, subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.
US09499458B2 Process to produce linear pentenes and metathesis thereof
Mixed pentenes may be converted to propylene by feeding an alcohol, linear pentenes, and isopentenes to an etherification reactor. The alcohol and isopentenes may be reacted in the etherification reactor to convert isopentenes to tertiary amyl alkyl ether, which may be separated from the linear pentenes, recovered as a linear pentene fraction. The tertiary amyl alkyl ether may be fed to a decomposition reactor to convert at least a portion of the tertiary amyl alkyl ether to alcohol and isopentenes. The alcohol and isopentenes may then be separated to recover an isopentene fraction and an alcohol fraction. The isopentene fraction is then fed to a skeletal isomerization reactor to convert at least a portion of the isopentenes to linear pentenes, the effluent from which may be recycled to the etherification reactor. Ethylene and the linear pentene fraction may then be to a metathesis reactor to produce propylene.
US09499453B2 Catalyst filling apparatus of bubble column slurry bed reactor and catalyst filling method of bubble column slurry bed reactor
A catalyst filling apparatus is for a bubble column slurry bed reactor for the FT synthesis reaction. The apparatus includes: a slurry preparation tank installed adjacent to the reactor and configured to prepare a slurry S from a FT synthesis reaction catalyst and a slurry preparation oil; an upper part communication line configured to direct the slurry from the reactor to the slurry preparation tank; a lower part communication line configured to direct the slurry in the slurry preparation tank to the reactor; and a pressure equalizing line configured to communicate the reactor with the slurry preparation tank. The upper part communication line is downwardly inclined from the reactor toward the slurry preparation tank, and the lower part communication line is upwardly inclined from the reactor toward the slurry preparation tank. An inert gas introduction device is provided on the slurry preparation tank.
US09499452B2 Water electrolysis gases used as primary fuel to combust materials as secondary fuels
A primary fuel catalyst used to combust a secondary fuel, the primary fuel comprising the gases produced by water electrolysis. When secondary fuels are combusted by the primary fuel, the by-products include heat, water and other more stable by-product materials. When the secondary fuel is a hazardous waste or a radioactive material and either is bound to thermite before combustion, the by-products are no longer hazardous or have significantly reduced radiation levels after one or more passes. Embodiments of the present invention relate to the method for accelerating the decay of hazardous and/or radioactive waste products, and more particularly they relate to the nuclear transmutation of heavy radioactive elements into lighter ones with shorter half-lives and then finally to stable daughter products. Therefore, the invented process relates to reducing the long-term toxicity of hazardous and/or radioactive waste and to, an economic and effective process facility for doing so.
US09499447B2 Stable organic-carrier-based microbial inoculants and cultures
The present invention relates to methods for producing microbial preparations for crop production and microbial preparations produced through such methods. The formulations contain microbial inoculants like Azospirillum spp. which are grown in a complex medium, lyophilized with powdered milk and further supplemented with minerals and vitamins, starch and inert substances such as talc, chalk and diatomaceous earth. The products manufactured by such methods have shelf-lives of more than 3 years. They are used to inoculate seeds, seedlings and planting materials among different agriculture and forestry species for enhancing root, root hair an shoot formation, enabling plants to efficiently use soil nutrients, supplying plants with nitrogen from the air, tolerating drought and protecting plants from root pathogenes.
US09499440B2 Reduction and harmless method for recycling heavy metal waste
An amount-reduction, harmless, disposal method for heavy metal waste gypsum (HMWG), which belongs to the technical fields of recycling economy and environmental protection. The HMWG used as raw material is subjected to processes of smelting fluxpreparation, lead smelting, fuming, and geopolymeric gelling, to realize amount-reduction, harmless and resources recycling utilization of heavy metal waste gypsum. The smoke containing sulfur dioxide produced in the smelting process is sent to the acid making system, and the produced dust with heavy metal is sent to the dedicated system for heavy mental disposing. The smoke dust produced in the fuming process is returned to the lead smelting system. The secondary HMWG produced in the acid making system would be returned to the preparation process of smelting flux. And the final products would be sulfuric acid and geopolymer material.
US09499439B2 Highly dispersed carbon nanotube-reinforced cement-based materials
A composite cement material is prepared from cement material and carbon nanotubes, wherein the carbon nanotubes are present from about 0.02 wt % to about 0.10 wt % based on weight of cement material. The process for preparing such cement compositions includes sonicating a mixture of a surfactant, water, and carbon nanotubes; and blending the dispersion and the cement material to form a cementitious paste. The process may also include curing the cementitious paste. The composite cement materials are useful in a variety of cement applications where a reduction in nanoscale flaws and fractures is desired.
US09499435B2 Heat treatable article with screen and/or inkjet printed coating thereon, and/or method of making the same
Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to coated articles including substrates that support printed patterns and thin film layer stacks that can have the patterns and the layer stacks formed thereon and then be cut, heat treated, and optionally built into an insulated glass unit, laminated to another substrate, and/or used in another product. In certain example embodiments, this is made possible by bonding to the glass the frit material used in forming the pattern, re-annealing the glass following the bonding, disposing the thin film layer stack on the re-annealed substrate supporting the bonded pattern, and then cutting and heat treating. The frit advantageously does not re-melt during heat treatment because the melting temperature is higher than the temperature used in heat treatment. Associated methods also are provided.
US09499428B2 Formation of glass-based seals using focused infrared radiation
Broadband infrared radiation is used to heat and fuse an enamel paste to form an enamel seal between at least two solid substrates such as glass, ceramic or metal.
US09499424B2 Installation and method for wastewater treatment
A method for wastewater treatment, in a continuous flow system, and a plant for wastewater treatment, to achieve high level reduction of biogenic nitrate compounds are provided. Subjecting a mixture of active sludge and wastewater to vacuum degassing on the mixture that has been subject to earlier nitrification, but not introduced in a recirculation-return connection, and constituting the outflow from a nitrification volume, before degassing, is subject to additional denitrification. The mixture of active sludge and wastewater, due to the additional denitrification step, may be free of carbon carried along with wastewater. An external source of readily available carbon is introduced, and further deepened nitrates removal is performed. After wastewater is degassed, treatment continues within a gaseous nitrogen undersaturated aqueous zone of a secondary sedimentation tank.
US09499423B2 Electrobiochemical reactor and related method to enhance microbial/enzyme function in transforming or removing contaminants from a liquid
A method for supplying freely available electrons to microorganisms and/or enzymes includes applying a voltage and amperage to electrodes to create a free electron field between the electrodes, thus directly supplying electrons to the microorganisms and/or enzymes to enhance the effectiveness of the microorganisms and/or enzymes. Supplying the microorganisms and/or enzymes with electrons enhance their effectiveness in transforming and/or removing one or more target compounds from the liquid to be treated.
US09499422B1 Technologies, functions, and applications of SCIMIST
Anolytes and catholytes in and from separate anolyte and catholyte reaction chambers and electrochemical separation chambers are used for destruction of waste, sharps, biologicals, prions, cleaning of tanks, equipment, coal, ores and metals, sanitizing, sterilizing, generation of hydrogen, fuels, sterilizing solutions, water and heat and power, and processing of coal, shale oil and oil sands.
US09499416B2 Separator
The present invention relates to a separator including one or more separation members upon which residue can accumulate. An agitator is provided for agitating the separation members to remove the residue. The agitator may clean residue from the members without removing the separation members from the separator. Advantageously, the frequency that the members need to be removed from the separator and thoroughly cleaned is reduced when compared with the known separator.
US09499415B2 Ultraviolet irradiation apparatus
An ultraviolet irradiation device that is used for a fluid to be irradiated having a low ultraviolet ray transmissivity, a spirally wound tube in which the fluid to be irradiated flows is supported and fixed, and an irradiation amount of ultraviolet rays with which the fluid is irradiated is increased. A tube 3 having ultraviolet ray transmitting property is spirally wound on an outer circumferential surface of a support pipe 5, a plurality of ultraviolet lamps 7 are disposed around an axis of the support pipe apart from the tube, an inner case 9 that supports the support pipe and that encloses the plurality of ultraviolet lamps is provided, and a fluid flows in the tube and is irradiated with ultraviolet rays. The tube which is a fluid channel is thereby fixed to the support pipe, so that breakage of the tube and the ultraviolet lamps 7 can be prevented.
US09499412B1 Sparse data for small environmental systems and method
A sparse data system determines regulatory compliance of a plurality of small environmental systems that utilize a respective plurality of pumps. Each environmental system utilizes a universally programmed dialer configured to receive, store, and transmit pump operation data. A server is configured to utilize the time of operation of the pumps and separately provided installer information such as installer determined pump flow rates and permitted thresholds of operation of the environmental systems to provide a regulatory body with processed data indicative of whether the environmental systems are in compliance with their permitted thresholds. The dialers limit the number of connections with the server to periodically connecting to the server only after a predetermined time period or predetermined events.
US09499409B2 Metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve with RHO framework structure, and method for preparing the same
The present invention relates to a metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve MeAPSO with a RHO framework structure and a preparation method thereof. The metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve is characterized in that: the metal atoms are at least one of vanadium, copper, molybdenum, zirconium, cobalt, manganese, magnesium, iron, nickel and zinc. The chemical composition of said metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve in anhydrous state is expressed as: mR.nMe.(SixAlyPz)O2, where R represents template existed in molecular sieve micropores, m is the molar number of said template per one molar of (SixAlyPz)O2, m=0.1˜0.5; Me represents metal atom entering into said metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve framework, n is the molar number of Me per one molar of (SixAlyPz)O2, n=0.001˜0.30. Said metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve has ion exchange performance and adsorption performance. The catalyst prepared from said metal silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve can be applicable to multiple hydrocarbon reactions, such as catalytic cracking, reforming, polymerization, alkylation, transalkylation, isomerization, dehydrogenation, hydrogenation and the like.
US09499404B2 System and method for syngas clean-up
A system and method for processing unconditioned syngas first removes solids and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOC), then removes volatile organic compounds (VOC), and then removes at least one sulfur containing compound from the syngas. Additional processing may be performed depending on such factors as the source of syngas being processed, the products, byproducts and intermediate products desired to be formed, captured or recycled and environmental considerations.
US09499400B2 Optical devices and methods of controlling propagation directions of light from the optical devices
An optical device may include a substrate, a metal layer on the substrate, at least one first nano-structure in the layer, and at least one second nano-structure in the layer. The at least one first nano-structure may include a light source. The at least one first and second nano-structures may be spaced apart. A method of controlling a propagation direction of light output from an optical device that includes a metal layer on a substrate may include disposing first and second nano-structures in the layer; disposing at least one light source in the first nano-structure; and controlling the propagation direction of the light output from the at least one light source by changing at least one of a shape of the first nano-structure, a shape of the second nano-structure, a size of the first nano-structure, a size of the second nano-structure, and an interval between the first and second nano-structures.
US09499398B2 Vertically hybridly integrated assembly having an interposer for stress-decoupling of a MEMS structure, and method for its manufacture
A structural concept for a vertically hybridly integrated assembly having at least one MEMS component is provided, whose MEMS structure is developed at least partially in the front side of the component and which is electrically contactable via at least one connection pad on the front side of the component. This structural concept is able to be realized in an uncomplicated and cost-effective manner and allows the largely stress-free mounting of the MEMS structure within the chip stack and also ensures a reliable electrical linkage of the MEMS component to further component parts of the assembly. For this purpose, the structural concept provides for mounting the MEMS assembly headfirst on a further component of the chip stack via an interposer and for electrically linking it to the further component via at least one plated contacting in the interposer.
US09499390B1 Liquid delivery system
A system for the on demand delivery of a liquid mixture to an on/off dispenser comprises a mixing chamber having first and second inlets and an outlet connected to the dispenser. A first constant flow valve has a first outlet connected to the first inlet via a first supply line. The first constant flow valve is adapted to deliver a first liquid to the mixing chamber at a first substantially constant pressure. A second constant flow valve has a second outlet connected to the second inlet via a second supply line. The size of the second inlet is at least as large as the size of the second outlet. The second constant flow valve is adapted to deliver a second liquid to the mixing chamber at a second pressure greater than the first pressure, with the second pressure being determined primarily by the flow resistance of the second supply line. At least one of the first and second liquids, or a third liquid delivered to the mixing chamber via a third supply line, may be atomized. Compressed air may be introduced into the mixing chamber to enhance liquid mixing.
US09499388B2 Fillable bottle for dispensing a fluid product
A fillable bottle for dispensing a fluid product provided with a relief valve for filling the reservoir and putting a source of product into communication with the reservoir for filling, the relief valve including a passage for communication between the source and the reservoir, the passage having a seat provided with a valve which is mobile relative to the seat between a sealed closed position and an open position of the passage, the valve being mobile between its closed and open positions under the effect of the gravity induced by the positioning of the bottle respectively in an upright position and in a turned-over position, the bottle including at least one bell in the reservoir, the bell being in communication with the reservoir in the upright position and isolated from the reservoir in the turned-over position in order to not be filled by the product coming from the source.
US09499387B2 Beverage dispensing systems and methods
A beverage dispensing system includes a point of sale and one or more free-pour and/or controlled-pour spouts. The system receives data at the point of sale that includes a beverage selection entered at a user interface and determines the ingredients in the beverage selection. A dispensing instruction is sent to one of the controlled-pour spouts to dispense a quantity of the ingredient based at least in part on the beverage selection. For the free-pour spouts, a quantity of the ingredient is measured as the ingredient is dispensed from a container through a free-pour spout. The point of sale receives data that includes the identity of the ingredient and the measured quantity. A price of the beverage selection is calculated based at least in part on the ingredients dispensed and the quantities thereof. The price may be automatically calculated upon dispensing of the beverage selection.
US09499374B2 Wire reels, components thereof, and related methods
Embodiments provide reels comprising covers, wire hubs, and winding levers. The covers removably attach to casings and close spool apertures of the casings. The hubs spool wire into/out of the apertures via windows of the casings. Moreover, the hubs couple to the covers. Some levers operably couple to the covers. When stowed, the levers are within the perimeters of the covers. When deployed, the levers extend beyond the perimeters. The reels can also comprise the casings. Mounting bases of some reels can removably attach to the casings. Furthermore, some levers can pivot about hinges on the covers. Levers can comprise wind knobs at their ends and the covers can define apertures through which the knobs extend when stowed. Detents which retain the levers in the stowed position can be provided. Moreover, hubs can comprise the detents for engaging the levers when the levers are stowed.
US09499373B1 Cable retraction unit assembly
Provided is a cable retraction unit assembly connected to a table for displaying a mobile device. The cable retraction unit assembly includes: a cable connected to a mobile device; a guide housing and a withdrawal unit respectively mounted to an upper portion and a lower portion of a table, with the cable penetrating through the guide housing and the withdrawal unit; and a guide unit rotatably provided within the guide housing, wherein the guide unit is configured to rotate in response to a rotating direction of the cable when the cable rotates, thereby being capable of preventing twisting or breaking of the cable.
US09499371B2 Reels with corrugated flanges and undercuts
Reels or spools for carrying wires or the likes, where the flanges of these reels or spools have corrugations with undercuts selectively formed thereon, are provided. These undercuts may aid in the molding process, such as injection molding or compression molding with substantially rigid molds, among other things. The reels or spools may also have supports dispersed between the corrugations to provide additional structural integrity to the flange. These supports can be mid-plane supports between the corrugations and may be positioned closer to the inside surface or to the outside surface of the flange, and the supports may form an angle with the corrugations.
US09499370B2 Piling machine for flat items
A stacking machine for stacking flat items including a first stacking table which descends from a position higher than the infeed end to a stacking position, the separation of a constant flow of flat items in consecutive bundles occurring with this movement, and on which table flat items received from an infeed end are subsequently stacked to form bundles, connected to first displacement means which displace it between a stacking position in which the first stacking table receives flat items and an unloading position in which the bundles are transferred to the unloading means; a second stacking table which descends from a position higher than the infeed end to a stacking position, the separation of a constant flow of flat items in consecutive bundles occurring with this movement, and on which table flat items received from the infeed end are subsequently stacked to form bundles, connected to second displacement means which displace it between a stacking position in which the second stacking table receives flat items and an unloading position in which the bundles are transferred to the unloading means, unloading means for transferring the bundles from the first or second stacking table to a fixed unloading table; coupling means for coupling the unloading means alternatively to the first stacking table or to the second stacking table.
US09499368B2 Image recording device and image recording method
An image recording device includes a drive roller, a driven roller, a recording unit and a control unit. The driven roller is configured and arranged with respect to the drive roller so that the recording medium is grasped between the drive roller and the driven roller. The recording unit is configured and arranged to record an image on the recording medium arranged further to a downstream side than the drive roller in a first direction. When the control unit stops conveying of the recording medium in the first direction, the control unit is configured to stop conveying of the recording medium in a state in which an area of the recording medium different from an area, in which the image is planned to be recorded after a timing at which conveying of the recording medium is stopped, is in contact with the driven roller.
US09499366B2 Sheet feeding device, image forming apparatus, and method for controlling a sheet feeding device
A sheet feeding device has cursors slidable to regulate a sheet, a sensor portion including a variable resistor to output a voltage commensurate with the position of the cursors, a storage portion storing width detection data in which ranges of a sensor value based on the output of the sensor portion are defined for different sheet widths respectively, and a control portion calculating the sensor value, determining a particular range as a correction target range, calculating a difference between the actual sensor value and the center value of the correction target range, and correcting a limit value of the correction target range at the border with another range.
US09499364B2 Method of handling a web-like labelling material in an automated labelling process, labelling machine vacuum drum and labelling machine
A method of handling a web-like labelling material in an automated labelling process is disclosed. The method comprises feeding a succession of labels at an input station; and conveying the labels along a circular label path from the input station to an application station located at a first angular distance from the input station as measured about an axis, at the application station means being provided for applying the labels onto respective articles fed, in succession, to the application station. The method further comprises selectively conveying the labels along the circular label path past the application station and to a discarding station located at a second angular distance from the input station as measured about an axis, the second angular distance being greater than the first angular distance.
US09499360B2 Roller unit and image forming apparatus
A roller unit for reducing collision noise includes: a roller having a rotation shaft extending in a first direction; a facing member disposed as to face the roller via a recording medium; a holding member holding the roller movable between a separating position and a contacting position; an urging member applying first urging force to the roller in a second direction as to make the roller separated from the facing member; and a drive force applying member applying second urging force urging the roller in a third direction opposition to the second direction and rotational force rotating the roller in rendering the rotation shaft as a rotary center. The second urging force is provided to the roller via the holding member when the roller moves from the separating position to the contacting position as well as moves from the contacting position to the separating position.
US09499358B2 Device for combining an auxiliary stack with a main stack and sheet-fed printing press or sheet punching machine having the device
A device for combining an auxiliary stack with a main stack includes an auxiliary stack carrier which holds the auxiliary stack and which can be moved out of the stack area for combining the stacks. A holding device firmly holds a lower sheet of the auxiliary stack and an upper sheet of the main stack as the auxiliary stack carrier is moved out of the stack area, in order to maintain a good stack structure. A sheet-fed printing press or sheet punching machine having the device is also provided.
US09499354B2 Apparatuses, systems, and methods for operation of a pneumatic tube system
Provided herein are various apparatuses, systems, and methods for improving pneumatic tube system operating efficiency and facilitating secure access to pneumatic tube carriers. In particular, a system is provided that includes a magazine that has a first carrier chamber and a second carrier chamber and a pneumatic tube operably coupled to the magazine, where the pneumatic tube is configured to be in fluid communication with one of the first carrier chamber or the second carrier chamber. The magazine may be configured to be moved relative to the pneumatic tube between a first position in which the first carrier chamber is in fluid communication with the pneumatic tube and a second position in which the second carrier chamber is in fluid communication with the pneumatic tube. The first carrier chamber and the second carrier chamber may each be individually accessible to a user.
US09499348B2 Material handling conveyor vehicle
Material handling solutions for a mobile conveyor vehicle are provided. In one aspect, a vehicle having an infeed and output conveyor is provided, one of the conveyors being mounted non-rotatably to the vehicle and positioned by rotation-in-place of the vehicle via four wheel steering. In another aspect, a dust control cover for a telescoping conveyor is provided, having a pair of flexible flaps which are parted by a plough-shaped chute which travels through a gap between the flaps and delivers material to the lower conveyor section. In another aspect, a hydraulic fluid transmission system for a mobile conveyor vehicle is provided which makes use of at least one hollow structural element to route the hydraulic fluid. The structural member may radiate heat from the fluid for example to melt snow on the vehicle structure.
US09499347B2 Drive connection with integrated chain tensioning apparatus for face conveyors
A drive connection is disclosed. The drive connection may be configured to be interconnected between a main driving unit and a main gear unit of a driving device configured to drive a chain of a conveyor of a longwall device. The drive connection may have a housing configured to be connected to the main driving unit and to the main gear unit. The drive connection may also have a drive shaft disposed within the housing and configured to transmit torque from the main driving unit to the main gear unit. In addition, the drive connection may have a chain tensioning apparatus disposed within the housing. The chain tensioning apparatus may have a worm drive interacting with the drive shaft. The chain tensioning apparatus may be configured to drive the drive shaft for tensioning the chain of the conveyor when the main driving unit is in a non-operative state.
US09499344B2 Workpiece transport system
A workpiece transport system includes a number of holding trays, a conveyor belt, and a number of connecting assemblies corresponding to the trays. Each of the number of holding trays has a first surface with a defined recess for receiving workpieces. Each of the number of holding trays is rotatably connected to the conveyor belt by one of the number of connecting assemblies.
US09499337B2 Receptacle configured for liner replacement without lid removal
A receptacle having a lid coupled to a receptacle body by a hinge is configured for the replacement of a flexible liner without removal of the lid. A flange extension is configured at an offset distance to the hinge and enables the perimeter of the flexible liner to be retained in a liner retainer and extend up and over the hinge and into a flange extension on the opposing side of the hinge. This configuration holds the perimeter of the flexible liner taut and ensures that it remains in place as contents are placed in the receptacle. A pair of trunnion hinges may extend in opposing directions from the receptacle body to provide a detachable attachment of a lid. A flange extension may extend substantially around the liner retainer portion or only a certain distance from the end of a hinge.
US09499334B2 Modular shipping apparatus and system
A cargo container system, comprising: a base; at least four end frame supports attached substantially perpendicular to the base and having a substantially closed square portion with four sides and having outer extensions extending from two of the four sides and an additional support extending from the junction of the remaining two of the four sides of the substantially closed square portion, the additional support having two substantially L-shaped portions that are substantially parallel to the outer extensions and each of the at least four end frame supports having a corner support that is substantially parallel to the junction; at least three panels having two S-shaped ends, with at least one S-shaped end interposed between one of the two substantially L-Shaped portions; at least three rectangular frames removably attached to a corner support; a top; at least one door attached to one of the outer extensions.
US09499332B2 Electrically heated smoking system
An electrically heated smoking system includes a secondary unit capable of receiving a smoking article having an aerosol-forming substrate. The secondary unit includes at least one heating element and an interface for connection to a primary power supply for supplying electrical power to the at least one heating element during a pre-heating mode, to increase the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate to an operating temperature. The secondary unit further includes a secondary power supply arranged to supply electrical power to the at least one heating element during a smoking mode, to maintain the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate at substantially the operating temperature. The secondary unit also includes secondary circuitry. The electrically heated smoking system optionally includes a primary unit.
US09499329B2 Aerosol container nozzle and aerosol container dispenser
This invention makes it possible to spray liquid content while a cleaning member is mounted to a nozzle main body and remove residual liquid without pulling out the cleaning member from the nozzle main body. A nozzle includes a body 10 that presses down two stems 6 together, and a cleaning member 20 having two ejection ports 1a and capable of moving relative to the body 10. The body 10 is removably mounted to the stems 6, the cleaning member 20 is slidably inserted into an ejection-side passage R2 and has two tubular parts 21. Each of the tubular parts 21 forms a space R4 that connects a stem-side passage R1 to an annular cross section passage R3 when the cleaning member 20 is pulled out, while reduces this space R4 to thereby remove a residual material C when the cleaning member 20 is pushed in.
US09499326B2 Vacuum activated shipping container
A shipping container having side walls, a bottom and a top defining an internal volume. The top is selectively displaceable for gaining access to the internal volume and for sealing the internal volume of the container. A valve drawing a vacuum on the internal volume from outside of the container is provided. The side walls are capable of contracting and expanding as a result of the pressure within the internal volume.
US09499324B2 Flexible shipment packaging
A shipment packaging for elongate components is provided. Turbine blades must be sent from remote locations of the world to another location. During shipment, the coating of the turbine blades must be protected. The turbine blades are fixed at both ends by means of shipment packaging so that the turbine blades are protected.
US09499317B2 Banding strap
A banding strap has an elongate member made from a flexible, resilient material. The elongate member has a stop section and a seat section. The stop section has one or more stops spaced along elongate member and each stop has a diameter that is greater than a diameter of elongate member. The seat section defines a seat that faces the stop section along the elongate member and a gap above the seat relative to the elongate member that is sized to receive the elongate member. The gap has a width that is less than diameter of the one or more stops. The seat defines a cavity that restrains one of the stops against a force applied along the elongate member. The stop section engages the seat section by bending the elongate member around such that the elongate member is substantially parallel to itself at the stop section and the seat section.
US09499315B1 Bottle with storable flexible spout
A bottle has a flexible spout and a cap/cover configuration that effectively seals the spout from leakage and stores it under the cover. The flexible spout is folded or bent in two locations as it is secured within the cover. The flexible spout is folded over from an extended orientation and then around a fold partition. The cover is detachably attached to the cap. A diaphragm extends under the cap and seals liquid within the enclosure. In one embodiment, the cover and cap are configured with a ratchet mechanism that allows the cover to rotate in only one direction. In one embodiment, the bottle comprises two enclosures, and the enclosures may be detachably attached to each other or to a handle.
US09499313B2 Cap with a safety device
A cap with a safety device; the cap is rotatably and removably mounted on a tubular opening of a packaging container; the cap comprises a cap body and a grip ring connected via first fixation wings; the cap also comprises a safety outer ring and safety pawls; the safety outer ring is fixed at outer periphery of a bottom end of the cap body; the safety pawls are multiple in terms of quantity, and are circularly distributed at inner side of the safety outer ring; gaps corresponding to the safety pawls are provided on the safety outer ring; each safety pawl comprises a fixation end and an engagement end; when the cap is rotated to open, the engagement end engages and antagonizes with a corresponding ratchet tooth to perform irreversible rotation around its corresponding fixation end.
US09499311B1 Tamper evident crown cap system and method
A crown cap is adapted to be removably coupled to a bottle. The crown cap has a circular central region and a downwardly extending side wall in a generally cylindrical configuration. The side wall having a circular periphery with a plurality of recesses to facilitate shaping of the side wall, side wall terminating in an inwardly scrolled lower edge. The central region of the crown cap radially terminates in an upwardly extending exterior projection. The crown cap has a downwardly extending interior projection radially interior of the exterior projection. An adhesive is provided in the exterior projection.
US09499310B2 Combination child-resistant package and collapsible tube, and method of using same
A combination includes a child-resistant package and a collapsible tube removably positionable therein. A sidewall of a body of the package has an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface. A cavity is defined by the body. An opening is positioned proximate an open first end of the body. A bottom wall is positioned proximate an open second end of the body. A cap is removably mounted onto at least a portion of the first end of the body. The collapsible tube is surrounded by the body, the bottom wall and the cap when the cap is mounted onto at least a portion of the first end of the body. The collapsible tube includes a generally flexible housing defining a cavity for holding a substance to be dispensed from the housing. A closure is removably mounted onto the housing.
US09499309B2 Reclosable packaging using a low-tack adhesive fastener
A flexible film package having an adhesive based reclosable fastener having a flexible film substrate forming a plurality of package walls sealed to form an interior cavity for receiving a product; the plurality of walls having at least two opposing flexible walls; a package mouth, initially sealed, to permit access to the interior cavity; a low tack pressure sensitive adhesive (LTPSA) layer disposed on each of an exterior surface of the parallel walls, the LTPSA sized and oriented in positions to oppose one another at a plurality of positions when the package is reclosed to allow progressively decreased size of the interior cavity as product is removed; and wherein a bond strength of the LTPSA to the flexible film substrate is greater than an adhesion between LTPSA areas. The mouth can be formed by a peelable seal or by a defined area of weakness.
US09499306B2 Gift bag with integral candy dispenser
A gift bag is provided having a generally traditional gift bag configuration with four side panels, a closed end and an open end opposite the closed end for inserting therein and removing therefrom a gift or other such item. At least one of the side panels of the gift bag is double-walled, thereby forming a cavity within the gift bag. A plurality of candy pieces is contained within the cavity. A candy dispenser is integral with the gift bag having a container into which one or more of the plurality of candy pieces may enter after exiting the cavity through a small opening therein. Once the candy dispenser is moved to an open position, a user can remove the candy therefrom and then move the candy dispenser back to a closed position in order to contain the remainder of the plurality of candy pieces within the gift bag.
US09499304B2 Underlay device for transportation and presentation containers
The invention relates to an underlay device (1) for a transportation and presentation container (12) for food, such as fruits and/or vegetables, wherein the transportation and presentation container (12) comprises a bottom part (13) and four side wall parts (14, 14′, 14″, 14″′), and the underlay device (1) has four sides walls (3, 3′, 3″, 3″′) arranged in a frame shape as an underlay frame (2) of the transportation and presentation container (12) and/or at least three side walls (17, 17′, 17″) having dimensions as an underlay apparatus (16) so that the bottom part (13) of the transportation container (12) can be placed on the underlay frame (2) or the underlay apparatus (16).
US09499301B1 Rolling modular pallet system
A modular pallet system includes a lower shelf having vertically linkable corner fittings connected to side bars and cross bars arranged in a substantially horizontal plane. The pallet system further includes a plurality of uprights connected to the vertically linkable corner fittings and extending upwards from the lower shelf. At least two of the uprights may be connected together by a horizontal handle spaced apart from the lower shelf. Additionally, the pallet system includes castors connected to vertically linkable corner fittings of the lower shelf and extending downward from the lower shelf.
US09499292B2 Method for operating a labelling machine
A method for operating a labelling machine includes, at a first inspection unit, detecting feature coordinates of a design feature of a container, transferring the feature coordinates to a second inspection unit that follows a labelling assembly, and at the second inspection unit, while synchronizing the feature coordinates of the design feature, inspecting the container for correct label seating by tracking the feature coordinates of the design feature along a conveying path from the first inspection unit to said second inspection unit.
US09499286B2 Two-piece helical feeder tube for filling containers with pills
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a pill delivery apparatus. The method includes providing an inner core having an outer surface and providing an outer sleeve comprising an opening defined therethrough, the outer sleeve having an inner surface. Further, the method includes defining a passageway on the outer surface of the inner core such that positioning the outer sleeve over the inner core defines a delivery chute for delivering a plurality of pills between the passageway and the inner surface of the outer sleeve.
US09499284B1 Dual use imaging and optical communications system for microsatellites
A multi-functional optical subsystem for a spacecraft includes a laser diode module having output optics; an imaging and communication detector assembly; and a forward metering structure. The multi-functional optical subsystem is adapted for laser-based optical communication and attitude determination. According to embodiments, the subsystem fits within a small satellite having less than about 20 kg mass and less than about 10,000 cm3 total volume.
US09499283B1 Freeplay measurement device
A freeplay measurement device for measuring freeplay in a ruddervator includes a forward horseshoe assembly, an aft horseshoe assembly, a L-shaped locator, a connecting assembly, a load applicator, and a measuring device. The forward horseshoe assembly forms a half of an ellipse that can slip on the forward half of the tail. The aft horseshoe assembly forms a half of an ellipse that can slip on the aft half of the tail and ruddervator. The L-shaped locator is for aligning the forward horseshoe assembly on the tail and perpendicularly extends from the forward horseshoe assembly. The connecting assembly connects the forward horseshoe assembly and the aft horseshoe assembly when each is placed over the tail and the ruddervator. The load applicator is for applying loads on the ruddervator. The measuring device is for measuring the deflections of the ruddervator being tested, and is attached to the forward horseshoe assembly.
US09499282B1 Portable aircraft stairs and methods
A seat platform is driven up and down a foldable track by a trolley connected to electro-mechanical means to allow passengers to embark and to disembark from an aircraft. No stairs are used. The seat platform can be rotated to enable easy access onto and exiting by a person. The seat platform is adapted to fit a person, with or without disabilities, or accommodate a relatively large or heavy package, or luggage for transfer of the person or package from the tarmac of an airfield to the inside a plane and vice versa. The seat platform is adapted to ride on a set of tracks of sufficient strength to prevent twisting and inadvertent removal of the trolley from the track. The invention further includes positive break apparatus to prevent a runaway seating platform from occurring. After the embarking is completed, the lift apparatus can be dissembled, the track folded upon itself and all of the disassembled components can be securely stored on the aircraft. Upon arriving at the flight destination, the stored lift apparatus can be reassembled to allow passengers to exit safely from the plane and thereby providing passengers with the advantage of entering and exiting a plane without the use of stairs.
US09499280B2 Air-ground detection system for semi-levered landing gear
A method and apparatus for air-ground detection. A truck beam of a semi-levered landing gear is mounted on a pivot pin. The truck beam is configured to rotate about the pivot pin between a toes down position and a toes up position. A positioning mechanism is connected to a locking mechanism that secures an angle of the truck beam in the toes up position. The locking mechanism is secured in a steady state and configured to change from the steady state to a locked state in response to an initial ground contact. A sensor is connected to the locking mechanism. The sensor is configured to detect a change from the steady state to the locked state.
US09499274B2 Aircraft pylon and aircraft
To provide an aircraft pylon capable of being mounted to a wing without exertion of preload while ensuring that redundancy is provided in the pylon. An aircraft pylon 50 includes: a pylon strut 11 for supporting an engine of an aircraft; a pin joint mechanism for connecting the pylon strut 11 to a main wing of the aircraft; a link member 15 disposed between the pylon strut 11 and the main wing of the aircraft, wherein the link member 15 includes a collection of plural independent link elements.
US09499267B2 Vehicle elevator systems and methods
Ground-accessing elevator systems and methods are provided for transporting personnel between the ground level and one or more decks of multi-level vehicle such as a fixed-wing aircraft. The vehicle elevator systems and methods may be implemented using a multi-track guide rail system configured to guide an elevator car between the ground and two or more levels within a vehicle. The multi-track guide rail system may include an intra-vehicle track fixed to the vehicle structure and configured to guide the elevator car between decks of the vehicle, and a separate deployment track may be configured to telescope downward from the intra-vehicle guide rail track to guide the elevator car during deployment to the ground from the vehicle.
US09499263B2 Multi-rotor aircraft
A multi-rotor aircraft having a center boom from which extends three or more leg booms disposed generally perpendicular to the center boom and on which is mounted rotor bases that have a rotor rotation mechanism and The center boom has a rotating drive shaft, and at least one drive pulley is mounted on an end of the center boom aft of the three or more leg booms. In another aspect the invention is a flight control module programmed for control of a multi-rotor aircraft craft and methods of control of a multi-rotor aircraft in flight.
US09499254B2 Trim adjustment device, aircraft, and method of performing trim adjustment
Trim adjustment devices 20, 30, 40 at least include trim control switches 21, 31, 41 for performing a trim adjustment; acquisition sections 22, 32, 42 for acquiring a designated value for a position designated through the operation of the switches 21, 31, 41; and converting sections 23, 33, 43 for converting the designated value to a converted designated value expressed in different units. The switches 21, 31, 41 operate at a changeable rate in which the designated value changes at a prescribed amount of change per unit time, the prescribed amount of change expressed in units of the designated value before the conversion. The sections 23, 33, 43 converts the designated value to the converted designated value expressed in minimum units (0.1 UNIT) based on the product of the changeable rate and a click time period required for clicking the switches 21, 31, 41 once.
US09499246B2 Paddle assembly
A paddle assembly includes a tubular shaft that is configured to be coupled to a blade of the paddle assembly. The shaft has a shaft length, a first flexural rigidity at a first location along the shaft length and a second flexural rigidity at a second location along the shaft length. The ratio of the first flexural rigidity to the second flexural rigidity can be at least approximately 1.20. The shaft is substantially linear along the shaft length. The shaft has a shaft midpoint. The first location and the second location are substantially equidistant from and on opposite sides of the shaft midpoint. The shaft can have a tubular configuration. The shaft has a plurality of layers of material at each of the first location and the second location. The orientation of the layers of material at the first location is different than the orientation of materials at the second location. A modulus of elasticity of the materials used to form the shaft varies along the shaft length. The shaft can be formed at least partially from carbon fiber materials.
US09499243B2 Vertical pneumatic fender
A vertical pneumatic fender includes a bob connected to a lower hemispherical portion, an internal space containing a predetermined amount of ballast water, a body portion constituted by reinforcing layers layered between an inner rubber layer and an outer rubber layer, cords of adjacently layered upper and lower reinforcing layers disposed intersecting each other at a predetermined cord angle with respect to a cylinder axial direction, and intermediate rubber layers interposed between the reinforcing layers, where the cord angle in a neutral state is set to at least 15° and no more than 45°.
US09499239B2 Integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel
This invention relates to an integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel for receiving another vessel. Further the integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel is able to provide logistical support to the other vessel in remote locations. More particularly, this invention relates to an integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel that is designed to carry out heavy lifting and logistic supply functions in a stable manner. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel is also equipped with safe refuge quarters, helipad(s), various forms of storage, and areas for storage.
US09499236B1 Equipment protection sleeves
A protective sleeve for a piece of equipment, such as a marine deck or dock structure, which is intended for contact with wire rope is disclosed. The protective sleeve comprises at least one sleeve section shaped to conform to a portion of a peripheral surface of the equipment. The at least one sleeve section may comprise a first end portion, a second end portion, and a means for connecting the at least one sleeve section in end-to-end relation by connecting at least the first end portion of a first sleeve section to the second end portion of the same sleeve section or an adjacent sleeve section. In certain embodiments, the protective sleeve may be composed of a durable polymer material having a Shore D hardness of greater than about 60 or a Shore A hardness of greater than about 85.
US09499235B1 Kayak paddle holder
A kayak paddle holder includes a handle retention clip and at least one suction cup. The handle retention clip includes a lengthwise body and a pair of opposing lips. The lengthwise body includes an inner perimeter, which is sized to receive a handle of a kayak paddle. The pair of opposing lips extend inward from opposing edges of the lengthwise body. Each suction cup includes a suction cup portion and a mounting portion. The suction cup portion is retained by the mounting portion. The mounting portion is preferably attached to the handle retention clip with at least one fastener. The suction cup may be replaced with a twist lock suction cup. It is preferable to attach one suction cup to each end of the handle retention clip. In use, the at least one suction cup is secured to a flat surface on a kayak.
US09499230B1 Fixation adapter for handlebar
Methods and apparatus for a fixation adapter for a handlebar. An apparatus includes a fixation adapter mounted on a handlebar, the fixation adapter including a body having a pin on a bottom surface to secure the body to the handlebar and a latch on a top surface to fixedly lock to a control unit housing, and the control unit housing slidably mounted to the fixation adapter, the control unit housing including a mounting area for mating to the latch of fixation adapter.
US09499226B2 Exhaust pipe side cover for motorcycle
An exhaust pipe side covering has a rear portion supported by a muffler or an exhaust pipe of an exhaust device and also has a front portion supported by a motorcycle body through a bracket, thereby covering the exhaust pipe from outside. A projecting piece projecting inwardly of a motorcycle widthwise direction is formed in an inner side surface of a front portion of a main body of the exhaust pipe side covering and a screw insertion hole is formed in the vicinity of a projecting piece in the main body. The bracket is formed with a plug-in hole, with which the projecting piece is engaged by plugging in, and a threaded hole. A mounting screw member is engaged in the threaded hole through the screw insertion hole. The section of the projecting piece transverse to a projecting direction thereof is of an elongated shape.
US09499225B2 Flexible hand guard
A protective hand guard for use on a vehicle with handlebars. The disclosed protective hand guard is attached at one end to the end of the handlebars and at another end to a clamping structure. The attachment to the clamping structure, which is on the inside end of the handlebars is by a cable which allows some movement when placed under pressure. The cable can be a steel cable, a pair of steel cables or other structures which are generally rigid but provide a small amount of flexion. The outer end of the hand guard can be attached to the outer tip of the handlebar in a rotating mount.
US09499224B2 Bicycle seatpost assembly
A bicycle seatpost assembly comprises a first cylinder, a second cylinder, and a positioning structure. The second cylinder is configured to be telescopically received in the first cylinder. The positioning structure is configured to relatively position the first cylinder and the second cylinder. The positioning structure is configured to switch a state of the bicycle seatpost assembly among a first adjustable state and a second adjustable state. In the first adjustable state, a positional relationship between the first cylinder and the second cylinder is continuously adjustable within a first adjustable position range. In the second adjustable state, the positional relationship between the first cylinder and the second cylinder is continuously adjustable within a second adjustable position range different from the first adjustable position range.
US09499223B2 Bicycle containment apparatus
A bicycle containment system is disclosed. The system can include one or more vertical supports, one or more cantilevered crossbars pivotally connected to one or more vertical supports, one or more wheel locking mechanisms, and a control system. Each cantilevered crossbar can include two substantially parallel extending arms and a frame locking mechanism. The frame locking mechanism can be made up of one or more frame locking bars and one or more frame locking actuators. Each wheel locking mechanism can include a wheel locking bar and a wheel locking actuator. The locking mechanism control system can be configured to actuate the frame locking actuators and the wheel locking actuators.
US09499222B2 Device for establishing a line on a vehicle's body panel
A precision device for establishing a contour line of body filler on an automobile panel that allows a body repairman to create two (or more) control surfaces in which to work between. The body repairman no longer has to eyeball his/her contour work; for example, by walking to the front of the automobile to see how the contour of the panel being restored “matches” the non-damaged panels when viewed from the front of the automobile. The body repairman can now create a region to work between two body filler lines (a manageable region of repair) established with a flexible rod, a set of pressure adjustable supports and some body filler. Working between these two body filler lines using a flexible contouring tool he may sweep body filler between the upper and lower lines to identically approximate the long sweeping contour lines of the original vehicle.
US09499218B1 Mechanically-timed footsteps for a robotic device
An example implementation for determining mechanically-timed footsteps may involve a robot having a first foot in contact with a ground surface and a second foot not in contact with the ground surface. The robot may determine a position of its center of mass and center of mass velocity, and based on these, determine a capture point for the robot. The robot may also determine a threshold position for the capture point, where the threshold position is based on a target trajectory for the capture point after the second foot contacts the ground surface. The robot may determine that the capture point has reached this threshold position and based on this determination, cause the second foot to contact the ground surface.
US09499217B2 Variables spoiler apparatus for vehicle
A variable spoiler apparatus for a vehicle may include a driving portion including a gear set configured to provide a predetermined speed reduction ratio, wherein a driving motor and a driving shaft for supplying rotational force of the driving motor may be connected to the gear set, and a linkage, wherein a base bracket to which the driving shaft of the driving portion may be connected may be provided on the linkage, wherein the linkage includes a plurality of links that may be connected to a spoiler bracket connected to the driving shaft, the base bracket and a spoiler, and wherein the plurality of links may be rotated together with the driving shaft when the driving motor of the driving portion operates thereby to draw out or stow the spoiler such that angle and height of the spoiler may be varied.
US09499215B2 Folding vehicle
A folding vehicle structure includes a frame having a plurality of members. A first member intersects a second member at a first pivot point. A third member, spaced from the first and second members, intersects a fourth member, which is also spaced from the first and second members, at a second pivot point. The frame includes a first cross-member extending between the first and second intersection points. The frame is collapsible.
US09499213B2 Compliant isolator
A mounting assembly that includes a strap adjustment assembly having a curved cylindrical portion, a strap end mounting assembly, and a strap assembly. The strap assembly includes first and second straps, each of the first and second straps having first and second ends, wherein the first ends of the first and second straps are secured to the strap adjustment assembly and wherein the second ends of the first and second straps are secured to the strap end mounting assembly, and wherein each of the first and second straps extends at least partially along the curved cylindrical portion.
US09499212B2 Mounting structure of instrument panel reinforcement
Due to an insertion piece being inserted in a receiving portion, displacement of an instrument panel R/F with respect to a vehicle body in two directions that are orthogonal to a direction of insertion of the insertion piece into the receiving portion is restricted. Further, due to the insertion piece being inserted in the receiving portion, rotation of the instrument panel R/F around the direction of insertion of the insertion piece into the receiving portion is restricted. Therefore, as the insertion piece is inserted into the receiving portion at the time of installing the instrument panel R/F at the vehicle body, the instrument panel R/F can be positioned simultaneously with moving while being guided along the direction of insertion of the insertion piece into the receiving portion.
US09499211B2 Ventilation crossmember for a motor vehicle
An aeraulic crossmember for a motor vehicle includes a beam (12) in the form of a section forming a channel (13) along the length of the beam. The aforementioned channel is equipped with an opening (14) on one of the side faces thereof and contains a duct (15) which is made from rigid insulating material. The duct is also equipped with an opening which is defined by a mouth that is located opposite the opening in the channel and which is slightly smaller than the latter. The opening in the insulating duct is located inside the channel. The crossmember includes an interface device (16) in the form of a sleeve which extends through the opening (14) in the channel in order to connect the mouth of the opening in the duct in a leaktight manner to an air vent that is located on the exterior of the crossmember.
US09499201B2 Vehicular travel control device
A vehicular steering control device which comprises a rudder angle varying device which changes a relationship between an operational position of steering wheel operated for steering by a driver and a rudder angle of front wheels; and a rudder angle control device which performs an automatic steering control of the front wheels for a trajectory control of a vehicle by controlling the rudder angle varying device. The rudder angle control device performs a termination control which removes a deviation in the relationship between an operational position and a rudder angle of the front wheels, namely, an N deviation when the automatic steering control is terminated. A speed of removing the N deviation is lowered when a magnitude of a steering operation speed is small, compared to when a magnitude of a steering operation speed is large.
US09499199B1 Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid zero turn vehicle is disclosed, having an internal combustion engine supported on a frame and an operator platform located adjacent to the rear of the frame. An upright riser is disposed on the frame. The vehicle uses an electrical generating device driven by the engine and first electric drive motors or transmissions to drive the output wheels. An electrical bus or controllers may be mounted on a panel of the upright riser and offset vertically above the engine to assist in providing a compact design. A pair of drive levers is mounted on the upright riser for controlling the output of the vehicle.
US09499195B2 Integration of stop-start and active front steering
A vehicle includes an engine configured to auto stop and auto start. The vehicle includes an active front steering system with an electric actuator. A controller operates the electric actuator at a current limit that is less than a requested current of the electric actuator in response to a request to change a steering ratio by an amount that results in the requested current being greater than the current limit during an engine auto stop event. The current limit may decrease from the requested current to a predetermined limit after transitioning to the engine auto stop event. The current limit may increase from the predetermined limit to the requested current after transitioning from the engine auto stop event.
US09499191B2 Superposition drive for a superimposed steering system of a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a superposition drive for a superimposed steering system of a motor vehicle, with a drive shaft and a drive gear cooperating with the drive shaft, wherein the drive shaft is pivotally mounted with respect to the drive gear. A lever element pivotally mounted with respect to the drive gear, which is designed and arranged such that pivoting of the lever element entails pivoting of the drive shaft or vice versa pivoting of the drive shaft entails pivoting of the lever element, is provided.
US09499189B2 Snowmobile ski assembly
A snowmobile ski assembly has a ski defining a slot, a ski runner disposed in the slot and being translatable in the slot between a first position and a second position, and a runner adjustment assembly connected to the ski runner. The runner adjustment assembly selectively translates the ski runner between the first and second positions. A snowmobile having the snowmobile ski assembly and a ski runner are also disclosed.
US09499188B2 Luggage sliders
The luggage sliders include various embodiments for permanent or removable installation upon the underside of a roll-around suitcase, wheeled cart, or similar article to facilitate movement of the article up a flight of stairs or other stepped inclined surface. Some of the sliders are pivotally extendible and retractable. Others are telescopically extendible and retractable. Still others are pivotally attached to one edge of the article, and pivotally fold against a surface of the article for storage. Still others may be adjustably clamped about the base of the article. Still others are pivotally attached about a wheel axle to rotate and lie beneath the wheel for operation. Still others may be removably attached directly to the wheels of the luggage, cart, or other wheeled article. Still others are pivotally attached to a point on the luggage and telescopically extend to project below the wheel for use.
US09499183B2 System and method for stopping trains using simultaneous parameter estimation
A method for stopping a train at a range of predetermined positions, first acquires a measured state of the trains, and then updates, in a parameter estimator, estimates of unknown parameters and a reliability of the unknown parameters, based on a comparison of a predicted state of the train with the measured state of the train. An excitation input sequence reference generator acquires dynamics of the train to determine a sequence of excitation inputs based on a current estimate of system parameters, the measured state of the train, and a set of constraints on an operation of the train. A model predictive controller (MPC) receives a control-oriented cost function, a set of constraints, the sequence of excitation inputs, the estimate of the unknown parameters and the reliability of the estimate of the unknown parameters to determine an input command for a traction-brake actuator of the train.
US09499180B2 Locomotive headlamp
A locomotive headlamp comprising one or more light emitting diode (“LED”) bulbs, wherein the headlamp is ideally suited for reducing the parasitic load of the locomotive by up to about 86 percent, and which is designed and installed in a locomotive's headlight housing to cause the heat generated by the one or more LED bulbs to prevent snow and ice impaction around the locomotive headlamp, and to prevent damage to the electronics and/or circuitry used to operate the one more LED bulbs from the locomotive's power source.
US09499172B2 Detecting road weather conditions
Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to detecting road weather conditions. Vehicle sensors including a laser, precipitation sensors, and/or camera may be used to detect information such as the brightness of the road, variations in the brightness of the road, brightness of the world, current precipitation, as well as the detected height of the road. Information received from other sources such as networked based weather information (forecasts, radar, precipitation reports, etc.) may also be considered. The combination of the received and detected information may be used to estimate the probability of precipitation such as water, snow or ice in the roadway. This information may then be used to maneuver an autonomous vehicle (for steering, accelerating, or braking) or identify dangerous situations.
US09499170B2 Method and system for operating a vehicle powertrain
A system and method for operating a vehicle powertrain are described. In one example, a torque converter that has a variable K factor is adjusted to improve vehicle operation. The system and method may improve vehicle launch and vehicle operation at lower vehicle speeds.
US09499166B2 Method and system for vehicle ESC system using map data
An Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system for a vehicle is disclosed. An electronic control unit (ECU) is programmed to reduce vehicle lateral skidding by reducing differences between an intended vehicle direction and/or yaw rate and an actual vehicle direction and/or yaw rate by applying modifications to operation of the vehicle brakes and/or throttle. The ESC system receives inputs from wheel speed sensors, a steering wheel position sensor, a yaw rate sensor and a lateral acceleration sensor. The ESC system also receives input that indicates at least a property of the road upon which the vehicle is located, wherein the road upon which the vehicle is located is determined from a positioning system that uses a map database and the property is determined from the map database. The ESC system incorporates the road property information in determining when and/or how to modify operation of the vehicle to reduce vehicle skidding.
US09499165B2 Methods and systems for engine starting during a shift
Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, torque demand of a driveline after a shift is forecast to determine if it is desirable to start the engine early so that engine torque is available after the shift. The approach may improve vehicle torque response.
US09499149B2 Brake hydraulic pressure generator
First main and second hydraulic pressure paths, master cut valves configured to open and close the first and second main hydraulic pressure paths, respectively, a slave cylinder that operates in accordance with an operation amount of a brake operator, a first communication path that communicates from the slave cylinder to the first main hydraulic pressure path, and a second communication path that communicates from the slave cylinder to the second main hydraulic pressure path are provided. The slave cylinder includes a single hydraulic pressure chamber. The slave cylinder communicates with the first and second communication paths through a common flow path connected to the hydraulic pressure chamber. The slave cylinder is configured to be able to increase a pressure on a downstream side of the first or second main hydraulic pressure path. An on-off valve is provided in at least one of the first and second communication paths.
US09499146B2 Hydraulic braking device
Provided is a hydraulic braking device wherein the heat of a driving coil can be absorbed by a base body, and the heat radiation performance is excellent. The hydraulic braking device having a base body that includes therein a fluid passage for brake fluid, includes: a solenoid valve disposed on one surface of the base body; and a driving coil attached around an axis of the solenoid valve, wherein the one surface of the base body is provided with a wall surface facing an outer circumferential surface of the driving coil. A lower surface of the driving coil is in contact with the one surface of the base body, and a clearance is formed between the outer circumferential surface of the driving coil and the wall surface.
US09499145B2 Pressurized gas reservoirs including an elastomeric wall
A pressurizable gas reservoir can include a first end member and a second end member that is disposed in longitudinally-spaced relation to the first end member. A flexible reservoir member can extend between opposing first and second ends. The first end secured to the first end member and the second end secured to the second end member. The flexible reservoir member at least partially defines a reservoir chamber between the first and second end members that is capable of storing a quantity of pressurized gas for an extended duration of time. The first and second end members can be maintained in substantially-fixed axial position relative to one another. A suspension system including such a pressurized gas reservoir and a method of assembly are also included.
US09499140B2 Method for reducing jerk when completing an automatic braking maneuver
An automatic braking system for a vehicle is disclosed that includes an electronic brake system capable of applying wheel brakes to decelerate the vehicle and a controller for actuating the brake system in a manner that reduces jerk at the termination of an automatic braking maneuver.
US09499138B2 Connecting pin assembly support fixture
A connecting pin fitting assistive device that prevents erroneous fitting in which, instead of a proper connecting pin, another connecting pin that is larger in length than the proper connecting pin is erroneously fitted, at the time of connecting a prescribed connecting member to a pedal arm via a connecting pin by passing the connecting pin through a connection hole formed in the pedal arm and retaining the connecting pin with use of a retaining member, the connecting pin fitting assistive device having a contact face disposed in a vicinity of the connection hole of the pedal arm and located at a position apart from a side face of the pedal arm by a protrusion restriction dimension S, and the connecting pin fitting assistive device bringing a distal end of the connecting pin passed through the connection hole into contact with the contact face, so that a protruding dimension by which the connecting pin protrudes from the side face of the pedal arm is restricted to the protrusion restriction dimension S, and retention of the connecting pin by the retaining member is inhibited when the other connecting pin is used.
US09499130B2 Semi-rigid windshield wiper blade having an offset spoiler
The invention relates to a windshield wiper blade for a vehicle, particularly an automobile, comprising a scraper blade (1), a body (2) to which said scraper blade (1) is attached, and a spoiler (3) extending from said body and having an aerodynamic profile between a leading edge and a trailing edge, the boundary of the wiper blade between the body (2) and the spoiler (3) being defined by a horizontal surface extending through the leading edge of said profile, characterized in that said spoiler extends horizontally in the downstream direction beyond an optionally abstract portion defined so as to constitute the mirror image, relative to a vertical plane extending through a lower end of the scraper blade (1), of the portion of the body that is located upstream of said same vertical plane.
US09499126B2 Security system and method using mobile-telephone technology
Disclosed is a security and alarm system. When sensors detect something of note, they alert a master unit which in turn captures pertinent information (e.g., an image or sound) and sends the alert and the captured information. The recipient of the alert (for example, an owner of the system or a security service) evaluates the information and takes appropriate action such as alerting a local police department. Some embodiments offer two-way service: In addition to delivering alerts, the system responds to alerts from an authorized user requesting current information. Two-way communications allow some embodiments to deliver “Breach of Peace” alerts to users. In one scenario, a public security service sends out a warning within a geographical area that the peace has been breached. The system receives the warning and alerts its user to the situation. The user can then take appropriate action.
US09499118B2 Airbag for oblique vehicle impacts
An airbag system for a vehicle includes an inflator and an airbag defining an inflation chamber in communication with the inflator. The airbag includes a first extension and a second extension spaced from each other and each in communication with the inflation chamber. The first extension and the second extension are each selectively inflatable from an undeployed position to a deployed position. A controller is programmed to provide instructions to release one or both of the first and second extensions to the deployed position in response at least to a detected direction of an impact of the vehicle.
US09499117B2 Capacitance type occupant sensor having noise electrode
A capacitance type occupant sensor includes an electrostatic sensing unit, a reference electrode, a voltage applying portion, a current sensing portion, a capacitance calculating portion, and a discriminating portion. The reference electrode is applied with a reference potential. The electrostatic sensing unit is disposed in a vehicle seat, and includes a main electrode, a guard electrode and a noise electrode. The guard electrode is disposed adjacent to a lower side of the main electrode and applied with the reference potential. The noise electrode is disposed adjacent to a lower side of the guard electrode. The voltage applying portion applies a detection voltage to the main electrode and the noise electrode. The current sensing portion senses a main current of the main electrode, and a noise current of the noise electrode. The capacitance calculating portion calculates a first capacitance based on the detection voltage, the main current, and the noise current.
US09499115B2 Apparatus, system, and method for diagnosing initiators in airbag systems
The present invention discloses embodiments of an apparatus, system and related method for diagnosing initiators in air bag systems. An embodiment of the system comprises a diagnostic circuit electrically connected between acceleration switches and one or more squib, that is user-activated via a momentary switch, and with user-feedback, wherein a user can diagnose the health of the one or more squib with no power drain while inactive. An embodiment of a method related to the system comprises activating a momentary switch, completing a circuit whereby a diagnostic circuit may function, indicating to the user that the diagnostic circuit is functioning, regulating the current into the diagnostic circuit so that the squib does not fire, boosting the signal to a window comparator, detecting the desired voltage by the window comparator, giving feedback to the user that the voltage is good, too high, or too low. An apparatus embodiment of the present invention may comprise an electronics control module for sensing a crash event and initiating an inflation sequence for one or more airbags with an integrated system for diagnosing one or more initiators. The apparatus may include a housing enclosing one or more circuit boards, to which may be electrically connected one or more wire harnesses which themselves are electrically connected to one or more squibs.
US09499113B2 Luminescent grille bar assembly
A grille assembly of a vehicle is provided herein and includes at least one grille bar. A first photoluminescent structure is provided at a first location of the at least one grille bar and is configured to luminesce when excited by light emitted from a light source. A second photoluminescent structure is provided at a second location of the at least one grille bar and is configured to luminesce when excited by light emitted from the first photoluminescent structure.
US09499107B1 Rack for storing elastic straps
A system and method for securing elastic rubber bungee cords under tension, thereby preventing tangles, having compression, expansion, and gas springs or pistons to apply a tension force to the straps that are wrapped around the rack. The rack allows for a few dozen straps to be secured and released from the rack concurrently.
US09499103B2 Display room mirror
Provided is a display room mirror, including a room mirror disposed in an inner part of a vehicle to detect a rear situation of the vehicle; and an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel formed in a part or an entire part of a front surface of the room mirror, thereby improving a contrast and a reaction velocity and reducing a thickness and a weight of the room mirror.
US09499101B2 Fender mirror mount
A mirror mount that mounts a mirror to a vehicle fender. The mount can include a base that faces a vehicle fender exterior without extending upwardly and under a hood of the vehicle. A support arm extends from the base and includes a distal end that joins with a mirror. One or more pillars extend away from the base. The pillars can be sized and shaped to extend through holes in the fender to a frame member of the vehicle disposed inwardly relative to the fender. The pillars are associated with a fastener to join with the frame member so that weight of the mirror, the base, the support arm and/or the pillars are substantially born by the frame member. This can reduce transmission of vibration inherent in the fender to the mirror, and/or can rigidly and structurally connect the mirror to the frame member, rather than the fender.
US09499100B2 Vehicle mirror apparatus
The need for an O ring cover is eliminated when a gap between a shaft portion of a mover for mirror surface angle detection and a hole in a sensor case is sealed using an O ring. An O ring that allows a shaft portion of a slide block to be inserted therethrough is interposed between a sensor case and an actuator housing. The sensor case and the actuator housing are interconnected by means of screw-fastening via screws, and the O ring is brought into pressure contact with and held between the sensor case and the actuator housing by means of the screw fastening forces.
US09499097B2 Wing pointer illumination
A pointer arm for a gauge of a motor vehicle is provided. The pointer arm includes first and second light reflecting surfaces and an an arm portion extending from the first and second light reflecting surfaces. The pointer arm may be supported for rotation about an axis of rotation relative to a scale, and a shroud may be used to support the pointer arm. A cap may be supported on the pointer arm. The cap may include a pin extending into an opening within the pointer arm. The light reflecting surfaces are configured to propagate light around the opening and through the pointer arm.
US09499092B2 Illuminating molding for a vehicle
A molding for a vehicle is provided herein. The molding includes a plurality of light sources. A photoluminescent structure is configured to luminesce in response to excitation by at least a portion of the light sources. A viewable portion is illuminated by the photoluminescent structure.
US09499091B2 Assembly for forming an air-guiding element for a motor vehicle
An assembly for forming an air-guiding element for a motor vehicle has a shell-shaped air-guiding body and a brake lamp. The air-guiding body has an elongated opening which extends through the air-guiding body. The air-guiding body portion is arranged below the brake lamp. The retention side of the air-guiding body portion faces toward the retention side of the brake lamp. Both the brake light and the spoiler include mating retention elements which are both hook shaped to hold the lamp in position.
US09499088B1 Vehicle tie-down cleat assembly
A vehicle tie-down cleat assembly can include (i) a tie-down cleat defining an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion defines at least one aperture or member configured to receive a tying member, and wherein the tie-down cleat comprises a plastic housing and a metal insert disposed within the plastic housing, and (ii) a base assembly coupled to the lower portion of the tie-down cleat and configured to be removably coupled to a surface of a storage compartment of the vehicle, the base assembly comprising a base member, a hinge coupled to the lower portion of the tie-down cleat and the base member, the hinge being configured to allow the tie-down cleat to rotate with respect to the base assembly, and a locking system configured to lock/unlock the tie-down cleat assembly to a mounting plate mounted to a surface of a vehicle storage compartment.
US09499087B2 Self-containment for machinery
Systems and methods of the invention relate to containing a portion of liquid associated with a diesel machine (e.g., combustion fuel machine, and the like) used in an outside environment. A diesel machine and an associated fuel storage can be contained within a self containment device that prevents liquid(s) to be exposed to an outside environment such as, but not limited to, a ground, a soil, a water source, vegetation, plant, trees, and the like. The self containment device is a liquid-proof (e.g., no leakage) containment that can house a portion of liquid from at least one of the diesel machine, the fuel storage, or any other suitable feature used with the diesel machine and/or fuel storage.
US09499086B2 Motor vehicle with an adjustable loading panel in a cargo space
A motor vehicle includes a seat arrangement, a cargo space situated behind the seat arrangement, an adjustable loading panel arranged inside the cargo space, guide rails located in the cargo space for the adjustable, laterally guided accommodation of the adjustable loading panel, and slide or roller bearings for mounting the adjustable loading panel in the guide rails. An actuating handle is mounted in the adjustable loading panel and movable through exposure to a spring action for swiveling an eccentric mounted in the adjustable loading panel out of a position that fixes the adjustable loading panel in place and into a position that releases the adjustable loading panel for adjustment purposes, and for adjusting the adjustable loading panel.
US09499079B2 Linearly deployable aircraft seat legrest
A legrest assembly adapted for use with an aircraft passenger seat including a pair of spaced parallel support members adapted to extend forward from the front of the seat, a legrest pivotally supported on ends of the support members configured to pivot from near vertical when stowed to near horizontal when deployed, a brake mechanism for stopping forward deployment of the legrest, and an actuator for driving forward deployment of the legrest.
US09499078B2 Headrest moving device
Provided is a headrest moving device. When first and second gears, each of which has numerous teeth formed in widthwise and lengthwise directions, are engaged, the numerous widthwise teeth are engaged, and the numerous lengthwise teeth are engaged. Due to the teeth, it is possible to minutely adjust a position of a headrest and to withstand a high load. Even when some of the teeth are disengaged, the headrest moving device can be operated and provides excellent durability.
US09499072B2 Seat cushion length extender with sensor
Seats and methods for controlling a seat are described. A position of the user's leg is sensed relative to the position of the front of the seat. A determination is made as to if the position of the user's leg from a front of the seat is greater than a gap minimum. If the gap is greater than the gap minimum, a cushion length extender portion of the seat is moved until the sensed position is less than or equal to the gap minimum. In an example, the remainder of seat base is held in a fixed position within the vehicle environment. In an example, sensing can include capacitively sensing a position of the user's leg. In an example, sensing can use at least one of a thermal sensor, a light sensor, a radio frequency sensor, a microwave sensor or combinations thereof to sense the position of the user's leg. The gap minimum can be with the cushion length extender portion in slight contact with the user's leg. The sensor can be at a front face of seat. The sensor can be on the cushion length extender portion of the seat.
US09499071B2 Adjusting device for a motor vehicle seat, comprising at least one stop
An adjusting device for a hinge mount of a motor vehicle seat has a housing part, a drive unit, a gear unit which is mounted downstream of the drive unit, is driven by the drive unit, has at least one self-locking gear and drives an output shaft, an element which can be adjusted about an axis of the hinge mount, is rotationally connected to the output shaft and can be adjusted in an angle range ≦360°, preferably ≦90° about the axis of the hinge mount, and at least one stop mechanism which delimits the swivel range of the arm in at least one swivel direction. The stop mechanism is mounted between a) the self-locking gear and the drive unit, b) the self-locking gear and the housing part and/or c) the drive unit and the housing part.
US09499067B2 Power management in electric vehicles
Various techniques described herein relate to electric vehicle power management system for managing a plurality of battery modules in a battery pack. Such electric vehicle power management system may include a plurality of battery management systems corresponding to a plurality of battery modules, and an energy management system for managing the plurality of battery management systems. The energy management system and the plurality of battery management systems may adopt master-slave wireless communication, and may use a single wireless frequency channel or a plurality of assigned wireless frequency channels.
US09499064B2 Method for operating a motor vehicle including an electric power supply system
The invention relates to a method for operating a motor vehicle, provided with an electric power supply system and a supervisor for managing the power supply of the vehicle from the power supply system, which comprises an initialization step, carried out by the power supply system, said step triggering an update of a series of parameters of the supervisor, said assembly including at least one physical operating threshold of the power supply system.
US09499063B2 Power-supply device
Disclosed is a power-supply device configured to supply an operating voltage from an external battery to a control circuit via a voltage terminal. The power-supply device is also configured to supply an operating voltage from an output terminal to a driving circuit of the power-supply device via a switch. The control circuit that has received the operating voltage compares the voltage of the output terminal with a predetermined voltage, and makes a determination. If the voltage of the output terminal is not higher than the predetermined voltage, a predetermined notification is sent outside the power-supply device.
US09499062B2 Autonomous transport vehicle charging system
A charging system for autonomous transport vehicles including at least one charging contact disposed on each pick floor level of a storage and retrieval system, each of the at least one charging contact being located at a transfer station, at least one power supply configured to supply power to the at least one charging contact, and a controller in communication with the transfer station and being configured to communicate information relating to a transfer of items between the transfer station and a predetermined one of the autonomous transport vehicles and to apply power from the power supply to the at least one charging contact for charging the predetermined autonomous transport vehicle corresponding to the transfer and located at the transfer station, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the charging contacts simultaneously with the predetermined autonomous transport vehicle exchanging items related to the transfer at the transfer station.
US09499059B2 Vehicle
A vehicle includes: an electric storage device; a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of the electric storage device; a second temperature sensor configured to detect an environmental temperature; a heater configured to warm the electric storage device; and a controller configured to control the heater. The controller is configured to: when end time of the external charging is set, calculate a remaining time period from current time to the end time; identify a temperature increasing time period that corresponds to the calculated remaining time period, the temperature of the electric storage device, and the environmental temperature by using a corresponding relationship among the remaining time period, the temperature of the electric storage device, the environmental temperature, and the temperature increasing time period; and start driving the heater such that the temperature of the electric storage device at the end time reaches the target temperature.
US09499056B2 Air start steam engine
A method and system using at least two different working fluids to be supplied to an expander to cause it to do mechanical work. The expander is started by providing a compressed gaseous working fluid at a sufficient pressure to the expander. At the same time the compressed gaseous working fluid is provided to the expander, a second working fluid that is liquid at ambient temperatures is provided to a heater to be heated. The second working fluid is heated to its boiling point and converted to pressurized gas Once the pressure is increased to a sufficient level, the second working fluid is injected into the expander to generate power, and the supply of the first working fluid may be stopped. After expansion in the expander, the working fluids are is exhausted from the expander, and the second working fluid may be condensed for separation from the first working fluid. Control circuitry controls the admission of the first and second working fluids responsive to monitoring the load on the expander.
US09499052B2 Method for providing an operating device in a vehicle and operating device
A method for providing an operating device in a vehicle, wherein a control device generates graphics data which control a display surface so that a graphics object relating to an executed application is displayed, and the geometric structure of an actuating object is detected in a detection space in front of the display surface and, depending upon the detected structure, a control signal for controlling the executed application is generated. A control signal for stopping the executed application is generated by the control system if a geometric structure of the actuating object has been detected in the detection space, wherein a substantially planar surface of the actuating object which is oriented substantially parallel to the display surface is spaced apart from the display surface. Also disclosed is a corresponding operating device for carrying out the method and a vehicle having such an operating device.
US09499049B2 Hybrid vehicle comprising a torque distributor
Hybrid vehicle includes: an axle (FA, IA, RA); an internal combustion engine (CE); an auxiliary motor (AM); a torque distributor comprising a first transmission shaft (2) and a second transmission shaft (3) parallel to each other; and control means for controlling the torque distributor to switch to an electric traction mode by carrying out at least the following steps: acquisition of vehicle speed; and if the vehicle speed is non-zero, then selection of the most appropriate gear ratio among the at least two selectable gear ratios. The transmission shafts (2, 3) include two opposite ends ((21, 22), (31, 32)) and rotating connection means (7) including at least two selectable gear ratios (23/33, 24/34). The second end (22) of the first transmission shaft (2) is operatively connected/connectable with the axle (FA, IA, RA), and one end (31, 32) of the second transmission shaft (3) is operatively connected/connectable with the auxiliary motor.
US09499044B2 Vehicle with air cleaner
An ROV includes a body frame, a plurality of seats, a cargo bed, and an air cleaner. The plurality of seats are supported by the body frame, and aligned in a width direction of the ROV. The cargo bed is disposed rearward relative to the seats, and supported by the body frame. The cargo bed includes a placement surface on which cargo is to be placed. The air cleaner is disposed rearward relative to the seats, and at least partially exposed above the placement surface.
US09499041B2 Hybrid vehicle and control method thereof
A hybrid vehicle provided with an engine, a first motor generator, a planetary gear mechanism, a second motor generator, a battery, a battery state sensing unit which senses the voltage and the residual capacity of the battery, a steepness sensor which senses the uphill steepness, an accelerator pedal depression amount sensor, and a controller. The minimum rotation speed of the engine is set in accordance with the uphill steepness and the accelerator pedal depression amount, when the hybrid vehicle is travelling in reverse and the battery is charged with the voltage of the battery equal to or below a first threshold or the residual capacity of the battery equal to or below a second threshold.
US09499039B2 Power transmission system of hybrid electric vehicle
A power transmission system of a hybrid electric vehicle may includes an input shaft, a first planetary gear set disposed on the input shaft while including three rotation elements having a first sun gear, a first planetary carrier, and a first ring gear; a second planetary gear set having a second sun gear, a second planetary carrier, and a second ring gear; a third planetary gear set having a third sun gear, a third planetary carrier, and a third ring gear; first to seventh rotation shafts, and three friction elements configured to selectively connect the respective rotation shafts to each other or selectively connect the respective rotation shafts to the transmission housing.
US09499027B2 Operation of transport refrigeration systems to prevent engine stall and overload
The performance of a transport refrigeration system (12) having a transport refrigeration unit powered by a diesel engine is optimized by matching a capacity output of the transport refrigeration unit to an available shaft power of the diesel engine. The power consumption of the transport refrigeration may be controlled by selectively limiting refrigerant mass flow through the refrigerant circuit of the transport refrigeration unit in response to an operating engine load and an operating speed of the diesel engine.
US09499026B2 Vehicular air-conditioning system with a switching heat exchanger
An air-conditioning system for a vehicle includes a switching heat exchanger. The switching heat exchanger includes a heat exchanger core, a receiver tank, and a switch valve. The switch valve may be arranged between the heat exchanger core and the receiver tank to control the flow of refrigerant. A controller can be configured to control the switch valve in an access position during a cooling mode and a bypass position during a heating mode. In the access position, the heat exchanger core is in communication with the receiver tank such that the refrigerant flows from a primary region of the heat exchanger core to the receiver tank. In the bypass position, the heat exchanger core is in communication with its outlet such that the refrigerant from the primary region flows out from the switching heat exchanger.
US09499022B2 Auxiliary rubber spring for automobile suspension
An auxiliary rubber spring for an automobile suspension, comprising: N layers of metal partitions, N being an integer greater than or equal to 1, and a transverse section of each metal partition being arc-shaped; N+1 rubber layers, the rubber layers being alternately lapped with the metal partitions, and a transversal section of each rubber layer being arc-shaped; a supporting plate provided with a first convex arc surface on one side thereof, the first convex arc surface being bonded to a first concave arc surface of an outermost rubber layer; and a connecting plate provided with a second concave arc surface on one thereof, the second concave arc surface being bonded to a second convex arc surface of another outermost rubber layer. The auxiliary rubber spring for an automobile suspension according to the present invention may increase fatigue resistance of the rubber spring and effectively extend service life thereof.
US09499020B2 Twist-lock tow recovery eye
A vehicle tow recovery eye includes a shaft between a towing end connectable to a towable item and an insertion end that is insertable in a vehicle opening, a resistance assembly mounted on the shaft; and a locking pin having an axis that is substantially perpendicular to an axis of the shaft. The tow recovery eye can be used with a portion of a vehicle frame that includes a frame opening dimensioned to accommodate insertion of the shaft and the locking pin.
US09499019B2 Utility vehicle hitch plate system
A hitch plate includes a hitch plate body having a heightwise extending portion sized and configured to extend alongside a rear of a utility vehicle and a lengthwise extending portion sized and configured to extend underneath the utility vehicle. The hitch plate further includes a male receiver hitch portion extending outwardly from the heightwise extending portion of the hitch plate body over the lengthwise extending portion of the hitch plate body and a female receiver hitch portion extending outwardly from the heightwise extending portion of the hitch plate body in a direction opposite the male receiver hitch portion.
US09499014B2 Tire with improved beads
Tire having two beads each comprising an annular reinforcing structure and a carcass reinforcement which is anchored in the two beads by being wrapped around the annular reinforcing structure so as to form, in each bead, a main portion and a wrapped-around portion, wherein each bead comprises an apex situated between the main portion and the wrapped-around portion of the carcass reinforcement, and an outer strip positioned axially on the outside of the carcass reinforcement and of the apex, the apex and the outer strip being made of a rubber compound that has an elastic modulus G′ less than or equal to 15 MPa and a viscous modulus G″ such that: G″[MPa]≦0.2·G′[MPa]−0.2 MPa, the elastic and viscous moduli being measured at 23° C.; wherein the entity formed by the apex and the outer strip has a thickness E(r), the thickness E(r) varying such that, in the range of distances r comprised between 25 and 45% of the height H of the tire, the variation in thickness ∂ E ⁡ ( r ) ∂ r is less than or equal to −0.25 mm/mm over at least 4% of the height H of the tire, that, in the range of distances r comprised between 15 and 35% of the height H, the variation in thickness ∂ E ⁡ ( r ) ∂ r is greater than or equal to 0.20 mm/mm over at least 2% of the height H of the tire, and that, in the range of distances r comprised between 10 and 20% of the height H of the tire, the variation in thickness ∂ E ⁡ ( r ) ∂ r is greater than or equal to −0.10 mm/mm and less than or equal to 0.0 mm/mm over at least 5% of the height H of the tire.
US09499009B2 Rubber composition for tire treads and pneumatic tire using same
A rubber composition for tire treads of the present technology contains a diene rubber, silica and a silane coupling agent, wherein the silane coupling agent is a polysiloxane represented by a specific average composition formula, the silica content is from 5 to 200 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the diene rubber, and the silane coupling agent content is from 1 to 20 mass % relative to the silica content.
US09499006B2 Anti-counterfeiting feature generation method for valuable document and authentication method and device therefor
An anti-counterfeiting feature generation method for a valuable document and an authentication method and device therefor. The anti-counterfeiting feature generation method for a valuable document uses the anti-counterfeiting feature information redundancy to hide accurate information about an anti-counterfeiting feature. In the generation method, the anti-counterfeiting feature of a valuable document has little change on the human perception, but a valuable document authentication device in a financial self-service equipment can effectively extract the hidden accurate information about an anti-counterfeiting feature from signals obtained by a sensor and conduct quantitative detection and authentication, thereby effectively authenticating whether the valuable document is counterfeit or not. A new anti-counterfeiting feature which facilitates machine recognition is loaded to the valuable document, and a corresponding valuable document authentication device is configured to a financial self-service equipment, so that the financial self-service equipment can read the anti-counterfeiting feature of the valuable document by facilitating machine recognition, thereby improving the authentication accuracy of the financial self-service equipment to the valuable document.
US09499005B2 Sheet music and pamphlet adapter clip
An adapter for holding folded sheet music, cards or the like in ring binders without the need to punch holes or otherwise modify the music. The adapter is in the form of a wire clip that can be pre-attached to, and retained on, the music before the music is mounted in the binder, allowing fast changes of arrangements within the binder.
US09499004B1 Bar code label book single pass manufacturing process
A method for manufacturing a pro label book includes printing static indicia on a web of label material, applying an adhesive to each portion of the web of label material that will become a label page in a pro label book that is not the portion of the web of label material that will become a top page of a label book to be formed if the adhesive is applied to a top surface of the web of label material or a bottom page of a label book to be formed if the adhesive is applied to the bottom surface of the web of label material, printing variable information on the web of label material, sheeting the web of label material to form label pages, and batching the label pages together utilizing the applied adhesive. Certain embodiments include attaching one of a backer or a cover to the web of label material following the printing static indicia step.
US09498997B2 Tape cassette
A tape cassette that includes a housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface and a pair of side surfaces, a tape that is a print medium housed in the housing, a tape exit that discharges, from the housing, the tape guided in the housing along a predetermined feed path, at least a part of the feed path extending parallel to the front surface, and a type indicator portion provided adjacent to the tape exit and in a specified area of the front surface on an upstream side of the tape exit in a feed direction of the tape, the type indicator portion indicating a type of the tape and including vertical information sections and an aperture formed in at least one of the vertical information sections, the vertical information sections being strip-shaped sections extending along a direction orthogonal to the feed direction.
US09498992B2 Sheet material cooling device and printer including the same
A sheet material cooling device includes a cylindrical body having an outer circumferential surface to be in contact with a sheet material, a cooling unit having a cooling surface in contact with an inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical body, and a first fastening member inserted from an outside of the cylindrical body toward an inside to attach the cooling unit to the cylindrical body in a state that the cooling surface is in contact with the inner circumferential surface.
US09498990B2 Liquid ejecting apparatus
A printer includes a recording head, a carriage moving mechanism which moves the recording head in a scan direction, and a driving signal generating circuit which generates a driving signal including an ejection pulse for ejecting ink from the nozzle, and while moving the recording head using the carriage moving mechanism, forms an image on the recording medium based on ejection control data, and includes a control unit that in a case where an amount of the pixel data corresponding to a predetermined area on the recording medium is relatively large, performs control in such a manner that the moving speed of the recording head at a constant speed section at which the recording head moves at a constant speed is slower than that in a case where an amount of data is relatively small.
US09498986B2 Device for supplying and recovering printed material used in digital printing
The present invention relates to a device for supplying and recovering printed material used in digital printing with which a long printed material can be simply mounted onto a digital printing apparatus so that the work efficiency of an operator can be improved. The present invention includes: a supply roll around which the printed material is wound; a first transport roll which transports the printed material supplied from the supply roll to the lower part of a head part; a second transport roll which discharges the printed material on which printing is completed by the head part; and a recovery roll which has an axis of rotation parallel to the axis of rotation of the supply roll and which is rotated by a recovery driving means so that the printed material discharged from the second transport roll is wound. The printed material is supplied when one end thereof is unwound from the supply roll and is fixed to the recovery roll through the upper sides of the first transport roll and the second transport roll.
US09498985B2 Liquid application apparatus and computer-readable storage medium
A liquid application apparatus comprises: a pair of conveyor rollers including two rollers configured to rotate while pinching a recording medium thereby to convey the recording medium in a first direction; a liquid applicator configured to apply a liquid; and a controller configured to control driving of the pair of conveyor rollers and to control the liquid applicator. The controller executes a calculation process of calculating an estimated value of an amount of extraneous matter attached to the pair of conveyor rollers taking into account weighting data indicating a weighting given, based on an amount of paper dust, to each of areas on the recording medium which areas are arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction.
US09498981B2 Printed material processing method, printed material processing apparatus, and image forming apparatus
A processing apparatus is configured to process printed material where a printed layer is formed on a printing medium (a substrate) using an ultraviolet curable material, and is provided with a blade which is configured to process the printed material, a heater unit which is configured to heat the blade, and a first control section (a processing control section) which is configured to control the heater unit. The first control section is configured to previously heat the blade to a predetermined temperature according to a glass transition point of the ultraviolet curable material using the heater unit before the processing is performed.
US09498976B2 Ultraviolet-curable aqueous ink, ink cartridge, recording apparatus and recording method
There is provided an ultraviolet-curable aqueous ink containing: a continuous phase containing water; and a dispersed phase dispersed in the continuous phase, wherein the dispersed phase contains a water-insoluble ultraviolet polymerizable compound, and a water-insoluble ultraviolet polymerization initiator having an absorption at a wavelength range of 375 nm or more and 450 nm or less.
US09498975B2 Production method of recording material, and recording material
A recording material includes applying a first ink including a first polymerized compound using an inkjet method, polymerizing the first polymerized compound using ultraviolet light irradiation to form a first layer, applying a second ink containing a second polymerized compound and metal powder on the area on which the first layer is formed using the inkjet method, and polymerizing the second polymerized compound using ultraviolet light irradiation to form a second layer. A discharged volume of the first ink in the area is 2.0 to 20.0 g/m2. A time from landing of the first ink droplets until ultraviolet light irradiation is 0.0010 to 1.0 second. A discharged volume of the second ink in the area is 80 to 200 volume % compared to the discharged volume of the first ink. A time from landing of the second ink droplets until ultraviolet light irradiation is 5.0 to 60.0 seconds.
US09498974B2 Device and method for producing a customized cosmetic composition
A device for producing a cosmetic composition is in the form of a printer that is modified to receive and process cosmetic components. The device includes a printer housing that includes at least one print head and an opening for receiving a substrate and allow positioning of the substrate in relation to the at least one print head. At least one replaceable cartridge is provided and contains a cosmetic substance. The at least one replaceable cartridge is operatively coupled to the at least one print head such that the cosmetic substance can be applied to the substrate through the at least one print head. The resulting cosmetic composition is made of at least one cosmetic substance and the cosmetic composition is a transferable material that can be removed from the substrate and applied to a part of a human body.
US09498973B2 Ink jet recording system
An ink jet recording system includes an ink jet recording device; and a control portion that controls the ink jet recording device, in which when a first mode is selected from a plurality of recording modes, the control portion performs control of recording a security image corresponding to an input image on a recording medium by performing control of forming a glitter image by a glitter ink composition in a first image area on the recording medium, forming a color image by a color ink composition in the glitter image, and forming the color image by the color ink composition on a second image area that is in contact with the first image area.
US09498971B2 Inkjet printing device
A controller controls an ink liquid feeding operation performed by an ink pump from a negative pressure tank to a pressure tank, and an ink replenishing operation performed by an ink replenisher according to a liquid level in each of the pressure tank and the negative pressure tank so that, during purging, the liquid level in each of the pressure tank and the negative pressure tank is maintained at a reference level.
US09498970B2 System and method for monitoring ink use in a printing system
A computer-implemented system for determining ink availability in one or more ink reservoirs in a print system is described. The system includes at least one ink reservoir for each color ink used in the printing system, a print unit associated with each ink reservoir configured to apply a print image including at least one color of ink to a substrate based on print image information, and an ink level monitoring system configured to determine an ink availability in each ink reservoir based on printed image count information and a total wet ink utilization based on a measured dry ink utilization per area of coverage using the print image information and corrected by an ink usage correction multiplier generated based on characterization of a print condition.
US09498969B2 Liquid cartridge
A liquid cartridge includes a first liquid chamber, a second liquid chamber, a communication path through which liquid can flow from the first liquid chamber to the second liquid chamber, a blocking member configured to block communication between the first liquid chamber and the second liquid chamber through the communication path, and a movable member positioned in the second liquid chamber and comprising a detection portion and a float.
US09498967B2 Cartridge for holding ink pellets
A cartridge for holding ink pellets is provided. The cartridge comprises a first part and a second part. The first part comprises a first body, which first body comprises an exit adapted for releasing an ink pellet from the cartridge, and the first part comprising a separating unit, said separating unit being adapted for separating and releasing a single ink pellet and transporting said single ink pellet to said exit. The second part is configured for holding said ink pellets and comprises a second body being adapted for a sliding movement with respect to said first part in order to adjust a volume of the cartridge. The cartridge of the present invention improves transportation of said cartridge without reducing a capacity of the cartridge for holding a plurality of ink pellets.
US09498964B2 Liquid accommodating container
A liquid accommodating container in which a fiber member and a liquid are accommodated has a fiber ratio of the fiber member is 5% or more to 30% or less, a fiber diameter of the fiber member is 10 μm or more to 50 μm or less, a volume average particle diameter (D50) of a pigment included in the liquid satisfies a condition of 50 nm
US09498962B2 Printing device
A printing device includes: a head that ejects an ink on a medium to perform printing; and a mist collection mechanism having: a suction port facing the medium and sucking air near the head; an exhaust port discharging the sucked air; and an airflow path between the suction port and the exhaust port, wherein the airflow path includes a first spatial region located on a side of the suction port, and a second spatial region located on a side of the exhaust port and adjacent to the first spatial region through a communicating port having an opening area smaller than that of the suction port.
US09498961B2 Printing apparatus and driving method therefor
A printing apparatus comprising a printhead including two nozzle arrays neighboring in a first direction, each including nozzles arrayed along a second direction, a conveying unit for conveying a sheet in the first direction, a driving unit for driving the printhead so that each nozzle performs preliminary discharge on the sheet, and a unit configured to perform selecting some nozzles as non-driving nozzles and the remaining nozzles as driving nozzles for every column data in image data, determining image data to be assigned to each array as a first data so that a dot corresponding the non-driving nozzle in one of the two arrays is printed by the driving nozzle in the other, determining data for preliminary discharge as a second data so that each driving nozzle performs preliminary discharge, and ORing the first and second data.
US09498957B2 Inkjet recording apparatus and recording head maintenance method
Inkjet recording apparatus includes recording head 241 having a plurality of nozzles N, first ink storage section 242, supply passage 301 connecting recording head 241 and section 242, electromagnetic valve 310 that opens or closes section 242, second ink storage section 243, pump P1 that supplies the ink in section 243 to section 242, an electromagnetic valve 312 that opens or closes the second storage ink section 243, recovery passage 302 that connects the recording head 241 and the second storage section 243, and electromagnetic valves 307 and 308 which open or close the recovery passage 302. Control unit 40 allows ink inside the recording head 241 to reflow to the second ink storage section 243 by operating the pump P1 in a state in which the electromagnetic valves 310 and 312 are closed and the electromagnetic valve 308 is opened.
US09498953B2 Printhead die with multiple termination rings
A printhead die includes a SiO2 layer grown into a surface of a silicon substrate, and a dielectric layer deposited onto an interior surface area of a substrate. Multiple termination rings are formed around the interior surface area. Each ring is defined by an absence of the dielectric layer. A berm is located in between each termination ring. Each berm is defined by the presence of the dielectric layer.
US09498945B2 Component mounting line and component mounting method
A component mounting line has a screen printing apparatus and component mounting apparatuses. Each component mounting apparatus includes a first substrate carrying lane and a second substrate carrying lane, carries a first type substrate on which a first pattern has been printed in the first substrate carrying lane, performs a component mounting-relevant operation on the first type substrate, carries a second type substrate on which a second pattern has been printed in the second substrate carrying lane, and performs a component mounting-relevant operation on the second type substrate. The screen printing apparatus selects a type of the substrate to be carried in depending on whether a substrate is carried in the second component mounting apparatus downstream from the screen printing apparatus.
US09498937B2 Multilayer structures, packages, and methods of making multilayer structures
Multilayer structures, methods of making the same and packages made therefrom are provided. The multilayer structures are useful for packaging bone-in meat or other like products. More specifically, the multilayer structures have sufficient rigidity and strength to contain bone-in meat or other like products. In addition, multilayer structures can easily seal to themselves or to other structures. Moreover, the multilayer structures are biaxially oriented and heat-shrinkable.
US09498935B2 Molding packaging material and molded case
A molding packaging material 1 of this invention contains a biaxially stretched polyamide film layer 2 as an outer layer, a thermoplastic resin layer 3 as an inner layer, and a metal foil layer 4 disposed between the both layers 2 and 3, in which a biaxially stretched polyamide film in which when the fracture strength of the film is defined as “X” and the fracture strain of the film is defined as “Y”, the X/Y value is 230 MPa to 360 MPa is used as the biaxially stretched polyamide film 2. The molding packaging material can secure excellent moldability even when the molding packaging material is not coated with a slipperiness imparting component.
US09498934B2 Grafted polymer surfaces for dropwise condensation, and associated methods of use and manufacture
Presented herein are articles and methods featuring substrates with thin, uniform polymeric films grafted (e.g., covalently bonded) thereupon. The resulting coating provides significant reductions in thermal resistance, drop shedding size, and degradation rate during dropwise condensation of steam compared to existing coatings. Surfaces that promote dropwise shedding of low-surface tension condensates, such as liquid hydrocarbons, are also demonstrated herein.
US09498930B2 Packaging roll stock with windows
A process for manufacturing a laminate is disclosed. The laminate is for forming a package having one or more windows for viewing the contents of said package. The process comprises the step of extrusion laminating, onto a first material perforated by a hole for and defining each of said windows, a heat-sealable second material. A laminate produced by the process is also disclosed. A heat-sealed package produced with the laminate is also disclosed.
US09498929B2 Bag-in-box assembly apparatus and method of coupling a bag and a box to form a bag-in-box assembly
A bag-in-box assembly apparatus comprising a frame, an insertion assembly and assembly urging arms. The bag-in-box assembly apparatus is configured for use in association with a bag-in-box package having a box with an opening and a bag having a spout. A collar is coupled to the spout of the bag and the also interfaces with the opening of the box. The assembly apparatus is utilized to couple the collar to the bag, inserting the bag into the box and coupling the collar to the box.
US09498911B2 Coinjection hot runner injection molding system
A coinjection molding apparatus is disclosed that provides a skin material melt stream and a core material melt stream to a nozzle. The skin material melt stream forms an inner and outer layer of a molded article with the core material melt stream forming a core layer between the inner and outer skin material layers. A volume of the core material for forming the core layer may be manually adjusted between injection cycles to change a thickness of the core layer between a first molded article and a second molded article. Alternatively, a volume of the core material for forming the core layer may be automatically adjusted during an injection cycle to change a thickness of the core layer during formation of the molded article, such that the molded article will have a core layer with at least a first thickness and a second thickness.
US09498905B2 Single-shot molded vehicle structural body component and method of making the same
A structural body component, such as a rocker panel or rear spoiler, and a method of manufacture. The method may include heating a mixture having a polymer and a blowing agent, pressurizing a cavity of a mold, injecting the mixture into the cavity in a single shot such while exerting backpressure against the mixture as it is injected, and cooling the mixture in the mold to form the component.
US09498904B2 Molding process of highly heat-resistant sound absorbing and insulating materials
The present invention relates to a method for molding a substantially improved heat-resistant sound absorbing and insulating material, which uses a sound absorbing material containing, based on 100 parts by weight of the sound absorbing material, an amount of about 20-80 parts by weight of a fiber material having a limiting oxygen index (LOI) of about 25% or greater and a heat resistance temperature of about 200° C. or greater and an amount of about 20-80 parts by weight of a thermosetting binder resin having a heat resistance temperature of about 200° C. or greater and is installed on an engine cylinder block and an automotive body panel above a muffler of a vehicle. The method includes: a releasing agent coating step of coating a releasing agent inside a heated die; a heated compression molding step of fixing a shape; and a cold compression step of stabilizing the shape.The substantially improved heat-resistant sound absorbing and insulating material molded according to the method can reduce the noise inside a vehicle by blocking radiated noise, which is generated from an engine and an exhaust system, from being transferred to the inside of the vehicle through an automotive body panel, can maintain its shape even under a high-temperature environment of about 200° C. or greater generated by the engine and the exhaust system, and can satisfy UL 94V-0 flame retardancy.
US09498902B2 Press for manufacturing a one-piece object and method for using said press
A press for manufacturing a one-piece object includes two rotary plates (110, 210) which are parallel but offset, each carrying a mold (120, 220) having two portions. Each mold portion can be placed above or below, so that the mold portion (121) of the first mold situated above faces the mold portion (222) of the second mold situated below. First parts of the object, for example skirts, are inserted in the press in an insertion zone (Z1). In parallel, second parts, for example caps, are introduced into an introduction zone (Z2). In a common zone (Z3), third parts, for example dispensing heads, are overmolded on the first and second parts brought close in the common zone in the same position as in the finished object. After opening the press, the plates are turned so that the finished objects are in the portion of the second mold which is above.
US09498901B1 Process for forming an artificial reef
A process for forming an artificial reef includes the steps of forming a form having a geometric shape, applying at least one blockout onto a surface of the form such that the blockout extends outwardly of the surface of the form, applying a sprayable concrete over the form and the blockout, curing the sprayable concrete on the form for a period of time, removing the blockout from the surface of the form and from the cured sprayable concrete, and removing the form from the cured sprayable concrete. A base is formed having an upper surface. The lower end of the form is positioned upon the base. The sprayable concrete is sprayed over the upper surface of the base.
US09498896B2 Sheet manufacturing apparatus and sheet manufacturing method
A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply material including fibers, a defibrating unit configured to defibrate the material in the air, a classifying unit configured to classify defibrated material, which has been defibrated at the defibrating unit, by airflow into fiber material and waste material, a forming unit configured to form a sheet by using the fiber material, and a discharge blower configured to discharge the waste material by airflow from the classifying unit such that the waste material does not move toward a side of the forming unit. When manufacturing by the sheet manufacturing apparatus stops, the supply unit, the defibrating unit, and the discharge blower are configured to stop in a sequence of the supply unit, the defibrating unit, and the discharge blower.
US09498894B2 Cutting device
A cutting device includes a bottom plate, a platform located on the bottom plate for holding a workpiece, a first support plate connected to the support plate and located above the bottom plate, a first telescopic cylinder having a first piston, a blade connected to the first piston, a first medium providing device configured to provide medium, a first switch including a gateway A1 connected to a first lower cavity of the first telescopic cylinder, a gateway B1 opened to the outside, a gateway P1 connected to the first medium providing device, a first sensor including a gateway A2 opened to the outside, a gateway B2 communicating with a first upper cavity of the first telescopic cylinder, and a gateway P2 connected to the gateway B1.
US09498890B2 Primary alkaline battery
A primary battery includes a cathode having a non-stoichiometric metal oxide including transition metals Ni, Mn, Co, or a combination of metal atoms, an alkali metal, and hydrogen; an anode; a separator between the cathode and the anode; and an alkaline electrolyte.
US09498887B1 Two-faced linearly actuated gripper
An example two-faced linearly actuated suction gripper includes a first gripping surface having one or more first suction cups arranged to provide suction in a first direction. The suction gripper also includes a second gripping surface comprising one or more second suction cups arranged to provide suction in a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction. The suction gripper further includes a linear actuator configured to provide movement of the second gripping surface parallel to the second direction towards a face of an object. The suction gripper includes a sensor configured to generate data indicating that the face of the object is adjacent to the second gripping surface; and an engageable brake that, when engaged, stops the movement of the linear actuator in response to the data from the sensor indicating that the second gripping surface is adjacent to the face of the object.
US09498885B2 Recognition-based industrial automation control with confidence-based decision support
The present disclosure generally relates to a method for performing industrial automation control in an industrial automation system. As such, the method may include detecting, via a sensor system, positions and/or motions of a human. The method may then include determining a possible automation command corresponding to the detected positions and/or motions. After determining the possible automation command, the method may implement a control and/or notification action based upon the detected positions and/or motions.
US09498884B2 Crosswalk walking assistance system and method of controlling the same
A crosswalk walking assistance system to assist a pedestrian by moving a movable robot along with the pedestrian along a boundary of a crosswalk when the pedestrian crosses at the crosswalk, and a method of controlling the same. The crosswalk walking assistance system includes guide rails formed along boundary lines of a crosswalk, robots moving along the guide rails, and a controller connected to the guide rails.
US09498878B2 Insulate high voltage extension for socket wrench
Improvements in an insulated high voltage extension for a socket wrench is disclosed. The extension provides electrical isolation between an operator located at one end of the insulated extension and a nut or bolt located at the other end of the insulated extension. Due to the potential for high voltage electricity to jump between conductive elements the insulated high voltage extension provides electrical isolation to reduce or prevent electrocution of an installer when the installer is working with high voltage power transmission lines. The extension can have a universal joint option that allows an operator to be slightly out-of-alignment with the nut or bolt. The extension can have a sacrificial torque limiter to prevent an installer from continuing to tighten or loosen a nut or bolt beyond a limit that can cause damage to the extension.
US09498873B2 Stapler
A stapler is provided with a penetrating part including a pair of cutting blades which are disposed at an interval in a second direction. Holes are formed in sheets and a pair of leg portions of a staple penetrate the sheets by penetrating and withdrawing the cutting blades into and from the sheets in the first direction. An interval in the second direction between the pair of cutting blades at a tip end sides in the first direction is narrower than an interval in the second direction between the pair of cutting blades at base end sides which are opposite to the tip end sides in the first direction.
US09498871B2 Power tool raving spring curl trip actuator
A trigger mechanism for a fastening tool having a spring curl trip actuator. The spring curl trip actuator can be made of a flexible material and can be configured to exert a force upon a trigger switch. The spring curl trip actuator can also absorb force from a contact trip. The spring curl trip actuator can have compact height and length dimensions. The fastening tool can use a method for controlling triggering by using a spring curl trip actuator.
US09498867B2 Polycrystalline compacts, earth-boring tools including such compacts, and methods of fabricating polycrystalline compacts
A polycrystalline compact includes diamond grains, cubic boron nitride grains, and grains of an additional nitride, carbide, or boride. The additional nitride, carbide, or boride may be aluminum nitride, gallium nitride, silicon nitride, titanium nitride, silicon carbide, titanium carbide, titanium boride, titanium diboride, and/or aluminum boride. The diamond grains, the cubic boron nitride grains, and the grains of the additional nitride, carbide, or boride are intermixed and interbonded to form a polycrystalline material. An earth-boring tool includes a bit body and a polycrystalline diamond compact secured to the bit body. Methods of fabricating polycrystalline compacts include forming a mixture comprising diamond grains, non-cubic boron nitride grains, and a metal or semimetal; encapsulating the mixture in a container; and subjecting the encapsulated mixture to high-pressure and high-temperature conditions to form a polycrystalline material.
US09498865B2 System and methods for rough grinding
A system and methods are provided for grinding a workpiece. In one embodiment, a method includes controlling rotation of a workpiece, wherein the workpiece is rotated relative to a first axis, and controlling grinding of the workpiece by a first grinding tool to shape the workpiece, wherein the first grinding tool is rotated relative to a second axis. The method may also include controlling grinding of the workpiece by the grinding tool and rotation of the workpiece to provide grinding of the workpiece with a generally constant surface footage.
US09498864B2 Method for grinding spring with high quality and high efficiency
Disclosed is a method for grinding a spring with high quality and high efficiency, comprising the steps as follows: firstly, at least one of an upper grinding wheel (1) and a lower grinding wheel (2) is configured to comprise an inner grinding wheel (21) and an outer grinding wheel (24), wherein the inner grinding wheel (21) is fitted in the outer grinding wheel (24); the inner grinding wheel (21) or the outer grinding wheel (24) is driven by a transmission mechanism, the inner grinding wheel (21) and the outer grinding wheel (24) rotating in opposite directions; after a complete spring is fed to a space between the upper grinding wheel (1) and the lower grinding wheel (2), the complete spring is moved back and forth in the plane of the grinding wheels; and then the upper grinding wheel (1) is moved downwardly such that two end faces of the spring are ground by the grinding wheels, and when the height of the ground spring meets the requirement, the upper grinding wheel (1) is stopped moving downwardly and is returned to the original point later. Then, the ground spring movement is stopped and it is moved away from the space between the two grinding wheels, i.e., the complete spring is removed. In this way, the spring is ground in a revolving state, which can improve the yield and quality of ground springs, save energy and protect the environment, and result in a low cost of grinding, a simple structure, low cost for manufacturing parts, long persistence in precision of mechanisms, and good stability.
US09498862B2 Vacuum cup positioning device and process for producing handling attachment using the same
A handling attachment includes four vacuum cups to suction-hold a suction target surface of a workpiece and a support member which holds the vacuum cups so as to maintain a position relation among the vacuum cups. A device for positioning the vacuum cups has a base plate and four positioning jigs disposed on the base plate. The positioning jigs have, at their upper end, a dummy workpiece surface to be abutted with the vacuum cups. The dummy workpiece surface is allowed to change the position and to tilt in any direction.
US09498861B2 Method and device for machining elongate workpieces that are not rotationally symmetrical in the form of turbine blades
In a method and a device for machining an elongate workpiece that is not rotationally symmetrical in the form of turbine blades, the workpiece is supported by a steady rest that has clamping elements for clamping the workpiece on the cross-section thereof that is not rotationally symmetrical. After clamping the workpiece, the steady rest moves with its open clamping elements along the longitudinal axis of the workpiece into a supporting position. During movement of the steady rest into the supporting position and/or while the supporting position of the steady rest is being changed, a collision between the open clamping elements of the steady rest and the workpiece is prevented by a program-controlled rotation of a rotary part of the steady rest.
US09498859B2 Multi-axis temporary tightening tool
A multi-axis temporary tightening tool includes: a tool main body formed into a ring shape; and a plurality of sockets which are arranged in a ring shape along the tool main body, are rotated by rotational force input to the tool main body, and simultaneously apply rotational force to a plurality of screw members that are engaged in the sockets.
US09498856B2 Rolling tool device
The present invention proposes a rolling tool device for compression rolling of, in particular, blade elements of a rotor area of a jet engine with a tool carrier to which two pliers-type bodies are rotatably connected, with the pliers-type bodies each being provided with a rolling area. A distance between the rolling areas is variable in dependence of a rotary movement of the pliers-type bodies. A separate spacer device is provided by means of which a minimum distance between the rolling areas can be defined.
US09498852B2 Weld defect detection systems and methods for laser hybrid welding
Laser hybrid welding systems adapted to identify and/or fix a weld defect occurring during a laser hybrid welding process are provided. Embodiments of the laser hybrid welding system may include one or more devices that provide feedback to a controller regarding one or more weld parameters. One embodiment of the laser hybrid welding system includes sensors that are adapted to measure the weld voltage and/or amperage during the welding process and transmit the acquired data to the controller for processing. Another embodiment of the laser hybrid welding system includes a lead camera and a lag camera that film an area directly in front of the weld location and directly behind the weld location.
US09498851B2 Methods for forming apparatus for stud bump formation
An apparatus used for forming stud bumps may be formed by providing a first clamp plate comprising a clamping surface, forming a notcher on the clamping surface, and forming a contact stopper on the clamping surface. The apparatus may include a clamp that includes at least two opposing plates, and at least one of the opposing plates includes a protruding feature that intersects the wire when the wire is clamped forming a first notch in the wire. The method for forming stud bumps includes bonding wire to a bonding surface, releasing the wire from the clamp, passing the wire a notch pitch distance through the clamp, clamping the wire with the clamp forming a second notch in the wire, and breaking the wire leaving a bonded portion of the wire on the bonding surface.
US09498848B2 Method of manufacturing a wall
A method of manufacturing an annular wall (46) of a combustion chamber (15) comprises depositing layers of a metal sequentially one upon the other to form layers of a spiral wall (45) of the combustion chamber (15). Each layer of metal is deposited in a spiral pathway (122). The ends (E1, E2) of the spiral wall (45) of the combustion chamber (15) are joined together to form the annular wall (46) of the combustion chamber (15). The ends (E1, E2) of the spiral wall (45) of the combustion chamber (15) are at the opposite ends of the spiral pathway (122).
US09498846B2 Systems and methods for preventing or reducing contamination enhanced laser induced damage (C-LID) to optical components using gas phase additives
Systems and methods for preventing or reducing contamination enhanced laser induced damage (C-LID) to optical components are provided including a housing enclosing an optical component, a container configured to hold a gas phase additive and operatively coupled to the housing; and a delivery system configured to introduce the gas phase additive from the container into the housing and to maintain the gas phase additive at a pre-selected partial pressure within the housing. The gas phase additive may have a greater affinity for the optical component than does a contaminant and may be present in an amount sufficient to inhibit laser induced damage resulting from contact between the contaminant and the optical component. The housing may be configured to maintain a sealed gas environment or vacuum.
US09498845B2 Pulse train annealing method and apparatus
The present invention generally describes apparatuses and methods used to perform an annealing process on desired regions of a substrate. In one embodiment, pulses of electromagnetic energy are delivered to a substrate using a flash lamp or laser apparatus. The pulses may be from about 1 nsec to about 10 msec long, and each pulse has less energy than that required to melt the substrate material. The interval between pulses is generally long enough to allow the energy imparted by each pulse to dissipate completely. Thus, each pulse completes a micro-anneal cycle. The pulses may be delivered to the entire substrate at once, or to portions of the substrate at a time. Further embodiments provide an apparatus for powering a radiation assembly, and apparatuses for detecting the effect of pulses on a substrate.
US09498843B2 System for preventing the formation of martensite in metals joining applications
A method for joining materials such as metal alloys that includes a first component, wherein the first component includes a first alloy having a known austenization temperature below which martensite forms when the component is heated and then cooled at a predetermined rate of cooling; a second component, wherein the second component includes a second alloy; and a welding apparatus operative to create a weld between the first and second components without crossing the austenization temperature of the first alloy.
US09498841B2 Auxiliary device for welding spindle disks, having a damping belt, and friction welding method
A belt including notches alternating with bushings on its inside surface is arranged around a disk, so as to encase it and to squeeze its periphery, the bushings penetrating into slot necks designed to house blade roots, so as to apply an elastic tightening force on the teeth and prevent fatigue cracks from forming during inertial friction welding of the disk with other parts of the rotor, these cracks possibly appearing at fillet connections of the teeth to the central part of the disk. The belt is made from elastic polymer with good internal viscosity, and damping properties.
US09498839B2 Welding apparatus with automated welding wire retraction
A method providing a welding apparatus configured to supply a welding wire to a welding gun and a welding system implementing the same is described. The welding gun has a trigger and an opening where the welding wire extends when the trigger is activated. The method also has a computer with a user interface that includes an automatic wire retract program, the program dynamically adjusting the amount of welding wire retraction based at least upon one of the following: welding arc current, welding wire size, welding wire speed and burnback time. The program monitors the welding gun and determines when the trigger is disabled. The program indicates when a first condition is satisfied and retracts the welding wire so the welding wire preferably does not extend (or minimally extends—or may be at least partially recessed within the tip) from the opening of the welding gun nozzle tip.
US09498834B2 Brazing method
A brazing method is disclosed. The brazing method includes providing a substrate, providing at least one groove in the substrate, providing a support member, positioning the support member over the at least one groove in the substrate, providing a braze material, applying the braze material over the support member to form an assembly, and heating the assembly to braze the braze material to the substrate. Another brazing method includes providing a preform, providing a wire mesh, pressing the wire mesh into the preform, heating the preform to form a braze material including the wire mesh, providing a substrate, providing at least one groove in the substrate, applying the braze material over the at least one groove in the substrate, then brazing the braze material to the substrate.
US09498831B2 Slide type circular saw
In a slide type circular saw, slide bars extending parallel to each other in a front-rear direction are slidably supported by bearing parts provided in first and second holding portions. The bearing part included in the first holding portion is press-fitted therein, while the bearing part included in the second holding portion is loosely inserted therein, and the second holding portion includes a pressing member which is configured to press the bearing part of the second holding portion against an inner surface of the second holding portion in a direction perpendicular to a plane which contains axes of the slide bars.
US09498825B2 Pipe de-burring assembly
A pipe de-burring assembly includes a mount that may be coupled to a power tool such that the power tool rotates the mount when the power tool is turned on. A de-burring member is movably coupled to the mount. The de-burring member may remove burrs from either of an inside surface or an outside surface of a pipe.
US09498821B2 Molten metal-containing vessel and methods of producing same
Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a vessel for containing or conveying molten metal therein. At least part of the outer surface of the vessel incorporates a web of metal wires embedded in the surface, the wires being mutually overlaid with openings formed therebetween. The refractory material penetrates into the openings. The web may comprise woven metal wires or non-woven wires or both. The web imparts resistance to cracking (or containment of cracks, once formed) and/or resistance to molten metal leakage if cracks develop. The invention also provides metal containment structures containing such vessels, and methods of producing the same.
US09498819B2 Refractory mold and method of making
A refractory mold is disclosed. The refractory mold includes a fugitive pattern assembly comprising a hollow sprue that comprises a sprue wall disposed about a longitudinal axis; a pattern disposed outwardly of the sprue wall; and an 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; and a refractory mold formed on and having a mold cavity defined by an outer surface of the fugitive pattern assembly.
US09498816B2 Wire twisting pliers
Pliers (20) include first and second pivotally interconnected plier arms (22, 32) each having a handle (24, 34) and a jaw (26, 36). The plier handles (24, 34) are operable to manipulate the plier jaws (26, 36). The pliers (20) also include a latch mechanism (300) for alternately latching the pliers (20) in a closed condition and releasing the pliers to an open condition in response to successive applications of squeeze to the plier arms (22, 32).
US09498815B2 Apparatus for flaring a double-walled tube
An apparatus for flaring an outer tube of a double-walled tube is provided. The apparatus includes a frame, a flaring tool and a clamping arrangement. The frame includes a first portion and a second portion that is laterally disposed in relation to the first portion. The clamping arrangement is disposed on the first portion. The clamping arrangement is configured to receive the double-walled tube therein and position an end of the double-walled tube to face the second portion. The clamping arrangement is operable to axially restrict the double-walled tube. The flaring tool is disposed in an axially movable engagement with respect to the second portion. The flaring tool includes a flaring tip that defines a tapered portion. The tapered portion is configured to face the end of the double-walled tube and flare an end of the outer tube.
US09498812B2 Die for reducing springback and process thereof
A sheet metal forming device and a process for reducing springback during forming of sheet metal. The sheet metal forming device includes a die tool that has a corner and a roller that at least partially forms the corner. The roller rotates relative to the die tool during and/or after forming of a piece of sheet metal around the corner. The rotation of the roller can be either a rotation that freely occurs during the forming process or rotation that is forcibly imposed on the roller during and/or after the forming process.
US09498808B2 Container degassing device for extrusion press
A container degassing device for an extrusion press is equipped with: a integrally formed degassing block joined to the end surface of the container of the extrusion press; a first sealing member that seals the degassing block; a second sealing member that seals the outer peripheral surface of an extrusion stem or a fixed dummy block of the extrusion press; and a vacuum suction device that sucks air from within a degassing space formed within the container. The degassing space is sealed by the degassing block and the first and second sealing members, and the area between the degassing block and the container end surface is sealed by a metal touch.
US09498806B2 Self-raising drive-over entranceways for containment berms
Self-raising drive-over entranceways for containment berms are disclosed. The entranceway includes a horizontal bottom panel and a collapsible sidewall that is held in a partially collapsed position forming a void between the bottom panel and sidewall. During a spill or the filling of the containment berm with a fluid, the void area between the partially collapsed sidewall and the horizontal bottom panel fills with the fluid and exerts hydrostatic pressure against the partially collapsed sidewall, forcing it to rotate upward. The higher the fluid level, the more hydrostatic pressure is applied against the sidewall, forcing it up higher until the sidewall obtains a vertical orientation. The sidewall may be restrained either by straps, braces or the like to prevent the fluid from escaping the containment area.
US09498803B2 Cleaning of pipelines
A pipeline cleaning system can include a pipeline cleaning apparatus with at least one fluid director that causes fluid which flows through the fluid director to repeatedly change direction. A method of cleaning a pipeline can include inserting a pipeline cleaning apparatus into the pipeline, flowing a fluid, thereby causing the fluid to be discharged from the pipeline cleaning apparatus into the pipeline, and a fluid director of the pipeline cleaning apparatus repeatedly changing a direction of discharge of the fluid from the pipeline cleaning apparatus. A pipeline cleaning apparatus can include a housing adapted for insertion into a pipeline, and at least one fluid director that repeatedly changes a direction of discharge of fluid from the pipeline cleaning apparatus, in response to flow of the fluid through the apparatus.
US09498800B2 Device and method for removing impurities from shredded plastic
A device for removing impurities from shredded plastic has a first and second cleaning disk with first and second cleaning surfaces, the cleaning surfaces are opposite each other and delimit a cleaning gap. A drive device rotates the cleaning disks, and shredded plastic is fed between the cleaning disks. The cleaning surfaces have a plurality of cleaning ribs extending between an inner and outer edge of the cleaning surfaces, wherein at least one flank of the cleaning ribs is angled or curved relative to the axial direction of the respective cleaning disk, and a plurality of cleaning bars running transversally to the direction of extension of the cleaning ribs are arranged between at least some cleaning ribs neighboring each other.
US09498795B2 Method and apparatus for sharp color definition on the application of granules to roofing substrates
A high speed granule delivery system and method for dispensing granules in intermittent patterns onto a moving asphalt coated substrate includes a granule hopper and a rotationally indexable pocket wheel in the bottom of the hopper. A series of pockets are formed in the circumference of the wheel and separated by raised lands. A seal on the bottom of the hopper seals against the raised lands as the pockets are filled with granules during rotation of the pocket wheel through the hopper. As each pocket is indexed beyond the seal, it is exposed to the moving asphalt coated substrate below and its granules fall onto the substrate to be embedded in the hot tacky asphalt. The speed at which the wheel is indexed is coordinated with the speed of the asphalt coated substrate to form well defined patterns of granules at high production rates.
US09498794B2 Process for producing a web substrate having indicia disposed thereon and elastic-like behavior imparted thereto
A process for providing indicia and an elastic-like behavior to a web substrate is disclosed. The process comprises the steps of: providing a web substrate; printing indicia on the web substrate; and, providing the web substrate with a plurality of first regions and a plurality of second regions comprising the same material composition. A portion of the first regions extend in a first direction while the remainder of the first regions extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to intersect one another. The first regions form a boundary completely surrounding the second regions. The second regions comprise a plurality of raised rib-like elements. The first regions undergo a molecular level and geometric deformation and the second regions initially undergo a substantially geometric deformation when the web material is subjected to an applied elongation along at least one axis.
US09498793B2 Wet coating method
A wet coating method is described, which includes the following steps. A film coating is applied to at least one surface of a substrate using a wet process. A plasma-assisted filling treatment is performed on the film coating to crystallize the film coating into a film. The plasma-assisted filling treatment includes using a filling coating.
US09498790B2 Apparatus for impregnation of items with an impregnating agent
A method and apparatus for surface treatment of footwear, bags, gloves, other leather items or leather-like items. The method includes optional covering a surface or a part of the items which are not to be treated; optional selecting time of operation of a spraying unit; placing items to be treated in a chamber; shutting the chamber and thereby manually or automatically initiating; activating the spraying unit for forming a mist of impregnating agent inside the chamber for applying impregnating agent onto the surfaces of the items; activating an air pump, ventilator or corresponding means for removal of excess impregnating agent from the chamber; and retaining excess impregnating agent in a filter which preferably is a filter containing activated carbon.
US09498785B2 Electrostatic spraying device
An electrostatic spraying device includes a device body having a paint supply passage, a paint nozzle located on a distal end of the device body and having a paint flow passage communicating with the paint supply passage and a paint outlet, a high-voltage generating part configured to generate high voltage with which paint is charged, and a high-voltage electrode disposed a predetermined distance backwardly away from the paint outlet on an outer periphery of the device body, so as to be separated from the paint flow passage. The device further includes a conductor located between the high-voltage generating part and the high-voltage electrode, a spring located between the high-voltage electrode and the conductor, a high-voltage electrode case detachably attached to the device body to enclose the high-voltage electrode, and a grip mounted on an end of the device body, which end is located opposite the paint nozzle.
US09498784B2 Bio-chip and method for separating and concentrating particles using the same
A bio-chip adapted for separating and concentrating particles in a solution includes a chip body defining a receiving space therein for receiving the solution, an inner electrode disposed in the receiving space, an outer electrode unit disposed in the receiving space of the chip body and including a first outer electrode that is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner electrode, and a second outer electrode that is spaced apart from and surrounds the first outer electrode, and a power source electrically connected to the inner electrode, the first outer electrode, and the second outer electrode. A method for using the bio-chip to separating and concentrating the particles in the solution is also disclosed in the present invention.
US09498777B2 Cells having cavities and the manufacture and use of the same
Cells having cavities and the manufacture and use of the same are described. An example cell includes a first layer including a gap to at least partially define a cavity and a reservoir area to receive material to enter the cavity by diffusion. Additionally, the cell includes one or more other layers coupled to the first layer to at least partially define the cavity and to hermetically seal the cavity from an exterior environment.
US09498775B2 Lean NOx trap diesel oxidation catalyst with hydrocarbon storage function
The present invention is directed to a lean NOx trap diesel oxidation catalyst for the treatment of exhaust gas emissions, such as the oxidation of unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) and the trapping and reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx). Catalytic composites can comprise a catalytic material on a carrier, the catalytic material comprising a first NOx trap layer that comprises a NOx sorbent and one or more precious metal components located on the carrier and a second NOx trap layer containing hydrocarbon trapping functionality located over the first NOx trap layer that comprises a NOx sorbent, one or more precious metal components, and a zeolite, for example a beta zeolite, wherein the zeolite is substantially free of framework aluminum. Such zeolites are characterized by high crystallinity and/or by being substantially free of framework aluminum to minimize surface acidity.
US09498763B2 Preparation of templates for nucleic acid sequencing
The invention relates to methods of generating templates for a nucleic acid sequencing reaction which comprise: providing at least one double-stranded nucleic acid molecule, wherein both strands of the double-stranded nucleic acid molecule are attached to a solid support at the 5′ end, cleaving one or both strands of the double-stranded nucleic acid molecule, and subjecting the cleaved strand(s) to denaturing conditions to remove the portion of the cleaved strand(s) not attached to the solid support, thereby generating a partially or substantially single-stranded template for a nucleic acid sequencing reaction.
US09498761B2 Fluorocarbon emulsion stabilizing surfactants
Surfactants (e.g., fluorosurfactants) for stabilizing aqueous or hydrocarbon droplets in a fluorophilic continuous phase are presented. In some embodiments, fluorosurfactants include a fluorophilic tail soluble in a fluorophilic (e.g., fluorocarbon) continuous phase, and a headgroup soluble in either an aqueous phase or a lipophilic (e.g., hydrocarbon) phase. The combination of a fluorophilic tail and a headgroup may be chosen so as to create a surfactant with a suitable geometry for forming stabilized reverse emulsion droplets having a disperse aqueous or lipophilic phase in a continuous, fluorophilic phase. In some embodiments, the headgroup is preferably non-ionic and can prevent or limit the adsorption of molecules at the interface between the surfactant and the discontinuous phase. This configuration can allow the droplet to serve, for example, as a reaction site for certain chemical and/or biological reactions. In another embodiment, aqueous droplets are stabilized in a fluorocarbon phase at least in part by the electrostatic attraction of two oppositely charged or polar components, one of which is at least partially soluble in the dispersed phase, the other at least partially soluble in the continuous phase. One component may provide colloidal stability of the emulsion, and the other may prevent the adsorption of biomolecules at the interface between a component and the discontinuous phase. Advantageously, surfactants and surfactant combinations of the invention may provide sufficient stabilization against coalescence of droplets, without interfering with processes that can be carried out inside the droplets.
US09498755B2 Gas separation membrane, method of producing the same, and gas separating membrane module using the same
A gas separation membrane containing a support and a separating layer formed on the support, the separating layer containing a main body and a hydrophilic layer; the main body being disposed on the side of the support; the hydrophilic layer being disposed on the far side of the support and containing a hydrophilic polymer.
US09498753B2 Method for sealing hollow fiber membranes
The present invention is directed to a method of sealing the free end of a hollow fiber membrane for use in a single header filtration module by dipping the end of the membrane into a low-viscosity light-curable adhesive and curing the adhesive. The invention further encompasses the resulting sealed hollow fiber membrane with a diameter that is only slightly larger than the diameter of the unsealed membrane.
US09498750B2 Exhaust treatment device
Provided is an exhaust treatment device including a cylindrical shell into which an exhaust gas is introduced, and a flow channel pipe that penetrates through the cylindrical shell. One end of the flow channel pipe is connected to an exhaust-gas flow path of an internal combustion engine, and the exhaust gas is introduced into the cylindrical shell via the flow channel pipe. A pair of through holes, in which the flow channel pipe is disposed, are provided in a pipe wall of the cylindrical shell. A lid member configured to occlude one of the through holes is welded to the other end of the flow channel pipe so as to occlude an opening in the other end. The lid member is welded to the pipe wall so that the one of the pair of through holes is occluded by the lid member.
US09498749B2 Method to neutralize hydrogen chloride in superheated geothermal steam without destroying superheat
Hydrogen chloride in superheated steam is neutralized by contacting the steam with a solution containing potassium carbonate. A solution of potassium carbonate will remain liquid when contacted by steam superheated by as much as 40° C. and, unlike sodium carbonate, the degree of superheat of a saturated solution of potassium carbonate increases with temperature. Other highly soluble potassium salts or salt inhibitors can be added to prevent precipitation of solid potassium chloride which may occur under certain conditions, or a small amount of additional water can be added to keep the potassium chloride in solution while allowing the steam to remain superheated. Injection of potassium carbonate solution downhole in a dry steam geothermal well to protect the well casing from corrosion is especially beneficial, because only a small amount of carrier water needs to be injected together with the potassium carbonate, whereby the steam remains superheated and the possibility of localized corrosion is avoided.
US09498746B2 Method and installation for separating acid components, dust and tar from hot gases of gasification installations
Using a method and installation for separating acid components, dust and tar from hot gases of gasification installations, an economical method using a corresponding installation is to be created, which enables acid compounds HF, HCl, H2S, dust and tar to be reliably separated in the highest possible temperature range. The aim is achieved in that the media flow leaving the gasification at above 700° C. is fed with additives to a desulfurization process and subsequently to a combined cyclone 9 having associated filter cartridges 17 in a common vessel 8, and the gas is withdrawn for further use downstream of the filter cartridges.
US09498743B2 Filter element with features to improve pre-cleaning performance, sealing, and structural support
Disclosed are filter assembly systems that utilize replaceable filter elements. The filter elements may include a ramp or sleeve for redirecting air intake when the filter elements are installed in the filter assembly systems and air is drawn into the systems. The filter elements and assembly systems may utilize co-acting components that mate with each other to at least one of: a) orient and permit mounting of the filter element in the systems; and b) permit mounting of only an authorized filter element in the systems.
US09498740B2 Washbox
Exemplary systems and methods relating to washboxes are described.
US09498739B2 Backflow collection system and method for reclaiming the same
The present disclosure provides a collection receptacle and a method for reclaiming backflow from a wellbore. The collection receptacle, in one embodiment, includes an enclosure configured to collect solid and liquid matter, and an elevated auger extending into the enclosure and configured to remove the solid matter from the enclosure. In this embodiment, the auger includes a housing having an outside radius rh, a flighting having a radius rf, and a shaft of the flighting having a radius of rs wherein a ratio (rs/rf) ranges from about 0.5 to about 0.6, and further wherein a relationship between the flighting radius rf and shaft radius rs promotes separation of the solid matter from the liquid matter as the solid matter travels up the auger and out of the enclosure.
US09498737B2 Method of purifying nucleic acids, method of extracting nucleic acids and kit for purifying nucleic acids
[Object] To provide a method of purifying nucleic acids where the operation is simple and the nucleic acids can be extracted in a short time with high efficiency.[Solving Means] A method of purifying nucleic acids including the step of adsorbing substances in a sample containing nucleic acids with an ion exchange resin 10 including a positive ion exchange resin and a negative ion exchange resin. As the positive ion exchange resin, a first positive ion exchange resin and a second positive ion exchange resin having an exclusion limit molecular weight lower than that of the first positive ion exchange resin may be used.
US09498734B2 Balloon inflating device with illuminating/sounding effect
A balloon inflating device with an illuminating/sound effect, for being provided at a gas entrance mouth of a balloon, includes an illuminating lamp/sounder, a battery and a shell. The shell covers at least the illuminating lamp/sounder; the illuminating lamp/sounder is mounted in front of the battery. The illuminating lamp/sounder has two wires, wherein a first wire is directly connected to the battery and a second wire extends to a back of the battery along a periphery of the battery; the shell has a discharging hole below the battery. A rotary sleeve which is hollow and provided at a back part of the battery is provided within the shell. The rotary sleeve has a gas hole or a gas groove for discharging gas into the balloon; and the shell is sleeved with the rotary sleeve.
US09498728B2 Game operating device
A game operating device (controller) includes a longitudinal housing, and a holding portion held by hand to be wrapped by its palm it is formed in the housing. A direction switch is provided on an upper surface at a position where it can be operated by thumb of the hand holding the holding portion, and a start switch and a select switch are provided backward thereof. An X button 46 and a Y button are further arranged in line on the upper surface of the housing. An imaging information arithmetic unit is provided at a front end of the housing in a longitudinal direction in such a manner that an imaging device thereof is exposed from a front-end surface. A concave portion is formed on a lower surface at a position corresponding to the direction switch. The concave portion includes a valley and two inclined surfaces. An A button capable of being operated by index finger of the hand holding the holding portion is provided on the backward inclined surface. By processing an image signal obtained by imaging an infrared ray from LED modules by the imaging device, it is possible to obtain an operation signal varying according to a position and/or attitude of the controller.
US09498727B2 Pre-fetching items in a virtual universe based on avatar communications
The present invention pre-fetches objects, textures and scripts (collectively referred to herein as items) through analysis of the communications of an avatar. Furthermore, if an object, texture or script is not pre-fetched upon arrival to a region the virtual universe's object, texture and script download system is augmented to prioritize objects the user may be interested in based on the avatar's communications and previously stated priorities. The present invention may improve user experience of virtual world by prioritizing the download and caching of objects, textures, and scripts that are likely to interest the user. Such a prioritization enhances the user experience by reducing wait times for the rendering of objects of interest.
US09498722B2 User organizing apparatus, user organizing method, and cloud computing system
A participation inviting block invites users wanting to participation in same content to be executed in a shared manner upon a notification from a promoter client apparatus connected to a content providing apparatus that makes two or more client apparatuses execute the same content in a shared manner through a network. An information notifying block references a user information storage block storing content provided by the content providing apparatus, information for identifying a user to whom the content was provided, and skill level information suggestive of a skill level of that user with respect to the content by linking the content, the information, and the skill level information in order to get the skill level information with respect to the content for which the participation was invited for each user wanting the participation accepted by the participation inviting block.
US09498720B2 Sharing games using personal audio/visual apparatus
A game can be created, shared and played using a personal audio/visual apparatus such as a head-mounted display device (HMDD). Rules of the game, and a configuration of the game space, can be standard or custom. Boundary points of the game can be defined by a gaze direction of the HMDD, by the user's location, by a model of a physical game space such as an instrumented court or by a template. Players can be identified and notified of the availability of a game using a server push technology. For example, a user in a particular location may be notified of the availability of a game at that location. A server manages the game, including storing the rules, boundaries and a game state. The game state can identify players and their scores. Real world objects can be imaged and provided as virtual objects in the game space.
US09498719B2 Game system, control method for game system, and program
A game system, a control method for a game system, and a program that enable strategic arrangement of a deck which is an object set are provided. A method according to the invention is a method for controlling a device for providing a game of fighting an enemy character, the method comprising: a step of arranging a plurality of objects according to selection by a user; and a step of executing an operation against the enemy character, by changing the arrangement of the plurality of objects.
US09498718B2 Altering a view perspective within a display environment
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for altering a view perspective within a display environment. For example, gesture data corresponding to a plurality of inputs may be stored. The input may be input into a game or application implemented by a computing device. Images of a user of the game or application may be captured. For example, a suitable capture device may capture several images of the user over a period of time. The images may be analyzed and processed for detecting a user's gesture. Aspects of the user's gesture may be compared to the stored gesture data for determining an intended gesture input for the user. The comparison may be part of an analysis for determining inputs corresponding to the gesture data, where one or more of the inputs are input into the game or application and cause a view perspective within the display environment to be altered.
US09498712B2 Qualified video delivery
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. 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.
US09498710B2 3D feedback mouse sensor
A method for providing feedback from a personal computer (PC) to a mouse includes: providing a sensor within the mouse; utilizing the sensor to receive signals from the PC; defining a plurality of areas on the mouse which can provide a feedback response; and translating the signals from the PC to activate a feedback response of at least one of the plurality of areas.
US09498706B1 System and method for providing an enhanced research game mechanic
The disclosure relates to systems and methods for providing an enhanced research game mechanic that simulates research in a virtual simulation such as a game. The system may engage the user in the virtual discovery process and therefore provide the user with a more realistic sense of discovery. The game may include a research space having a plurality of spatially arranged positions. The discovery locations may be hidden from the user's view until discovered. To make a virtual discovery, a user may interact with the positions of a corresponding discovery location. For example, the user may select or otherwise indicate a position in the research space. The system may determine whether selected or indicated position corresponds to a position assigned to the discovery location. The user may interact with the position in other ways such as by positioning a research unit at a position of the research space.
US09498703B2 Assembly kit for three dimensional works
Kits designed to stimulate creativity, to provide exercise for fine motor skills, and to improve spatial perception. The kits may be useful as a stimulating “toy” for children to develop creativity, spatial perception and motor skills, as a therapeutic kit for the elderly or those requiring rehabilitation of fine motor skills; as a diversion to relieve stress, to create unique works for the home or office, to display photos and memorabilia, and for a host of other purposes, limited by the imagination. The kits include at least shaped components, fasteners, and a platform onto which a three-dimensional work is mounted.
US09498702B2 Ball whirling device for recreational games of chance
The invention consists of eliminating the inner central shaft of the drum in order to allow a more homogenous mixing of the balls such that the chances of the balls being winning balls are not dependent on the position that they may occupy before the drum is rotated. To that end, the ball mixing blades (9) are integrally attached to the inner face of the structure of the drum. Not only does this structure allow mixing the balls better, but it also simplifies maintenance work on the device, in that it includes respective outer shafts (3) that are easily accessible without having to disassemble the drum in the event that the pin that links it with the mechanism for driving the rotation of the drum breaks.
US09498699B2 Device for receiving a boot on a gliding apparatus
The invention relates to a device for receiving a boot on a gliding apparatus, such device comprising a binding base extending along a longitudinal direction from a rear end to a front end, and widthwise from a first side to a second side; a heel loop extending in the direction of the rear end of the receiving device, the heel loop being self-supported by at least one attachment point, the heel loop being connected to the binding base by a connection system comprising at least one point of attachment with the binding base. The connection system between the heel loop and the binding base enables relative spacing or approaching movement between the heel loop and the binding base, and comprises at least one connecting element connecting the rear portion of the heel loop to the binding base and limiting the spacing between the binding base and the rear portion while allowing the approaching movement.
US09498690B2 Bat with multiple hitting profiles
A ball bat includes one or more stiffeners configured to provide an attenuating surface that limits the bat barrel's elastic deformation as the barrel deflects radially inwardly as a result of a particularly violent bat to ball collision. The stiffener is spaced apart from the inner surface of the barrel a predetermined distance to form a gap, wherein the gap extends only partially around the inner circumference of the barrel. The presence of the gap extending only partially around the barrel circumference provides multiple hitting profiles around the bat's circumference, with the best performance occurring adjacent the gap, and a reduced performance at all other locations around the bat's circumference.
US09498687B2 Golf club shaft
A shaft 6 is formed by a plurality of prepreg sheets s1, s2, s3, s4, s5, s6, s7, s8 and s9. These prepreg sheets include full length sheets and partial sheets partially provided in the axial direction of the shaft. The full length sheets include a full length hoop sheet s7. The partial sheets include glass fiber reinforced sheets s1, s4. In the shaft 6, a volume ratio Vf of the hoop layer in a specific tip part Tx is equal to or greater than 2.5% and less than 10%. The shaft 6 is lightweight and has a high degree of design freedom of a position of a center of gravity. The shaft 6 is excellent in strength of a tip part.
US09498684B2 Golf club head
Provided is a golf club head having a reduced weight while also preventing degradation in the ball hitting sound. The golf club head includes a head body that is a hollow structure, and a rib that rises from an inner surface of the head body. An opening having a non-circular shape is formed in a side surface of the rib. Note that the opening referred to here may be a through-hole or an opening that has a bottom.
US09498680B2 Split inner core of a multi-core golf ball with RFID
A multi-core golf ball having a split inner core with an RFID tag disposed thereon is described herein. The multi-core golf ball includes a split spherical inner core having a first inner core section and a second inner core section that interfaces with the first inner core section. The multi-core golf ball also includes an RFID tag, an outer core, and a dimpled cover. The RFID tag is positioned between the first inner core section and the second inner core section. The outer core encapsulates the split spherical inner core and the RFID tag. The dimpled cover encases the outer core.
US09498676B1 Handle mechanism for squat plate lifting
A handle mechanism for squat plate lifting includes a weight holding member having a base plate adapted to receive one or more annular free weight plates. The handle mechanism includes a vertical riser tube having pairs of lock tab holes on opposite sides of the tube at a plurality of vertical locations. A lifting mechanism includes a sleeve member sized and configured to slide vertically up and down on the vertical riser tube and to be removable therefrom. A pair of handles are pivotally attached to opposite sides of the sleeve member and include a locking plate member with a locking tab attached to each handle. A user can quickly and easily slide the lifting mechanism onto the weight holding member with the handles in a lowered position and, when the handles are lifted to an uppermost horizontal position, the locking tab of each locking plate member locks into the riser tube allowing the handles to lift the entire handle mechanism. With this arrangement, without letting go of the handles, a user can successively change and lift various weight holding members of various weights.
US09498673B2 Exercise device with swing function
An exercise device with a swing function includes a main body and a plurality of support mechanisms. The main body has a base which includes a front part and a back part. Each of the plurality of support mechanisms has a height and is abutted upon a ground to sustain the base. The height of each of the plurality of support mechanisms is changeable. When the main body is controlled to drive the base, the base stresses each of the plurality of support mechanisms to change its height. Therefore, the main body can be inclined to any direction to form a swing motion.
US09498665B2 Enhancer
This device (1) comprises two lengths of substantially inextensible material (2) and (3) that can act on the chest of the wearer. These will improve the endurance, exercise tolerance and lung function of the user. The two lengths of substantially inextensible material may be contained in a garment comprising one sleeve on the inside of the garment and the other on the outside of the garment.
US09498664B2 Foot, leg and arm support for exercise
A foot/leg/arm rest that is fully height and width adjustable. In addition, support cups can be positioned over a wide range of fixed angles to accommodate any user. The supports have a wide base that provides strong, firm and stable support for the device when it is used. The invention has two horizontal end members and a central connecting track. Two vertical post supports are positioned in the track and are slidably installed so that they can be positioned at any desired location within the track. In fact, one of the posts can be removed if desired so that only one post is in use. Each post is height adjustable independent of the other. This allows that supports to be positioned at two different levels, if desired. Each post has a support secured to it using a bracket that can be set to a wide range of angles.
US09498663B2 Sprinkler head
The present disclosure provides a sprinkler head which has a structure capable of preventing water leakage and malfunction and can be adapted to automated production. The sprinkler head includes a frame which has a water outlet and is coupled to a water supply pipe so that supply water is discharged through the water outlet, a deflector which has a height adjustment unit in a central portion thereof and is coupled to a lower portion of the frame, a fuse which is supported by the height adjustment unit and has a first lever and a second lever that are coupled with each other by a fusible metal, and a valve cap which is supported by the fuse and closes the water outlet. The first lever and the second lever are welded by the fusible metal at one or more points.
US09498662B2 Polymer gel emulsion injection system
An injection system for polymer gel emulsion is powered to cause polymer gel emulsion to be injected into high energy water entering a scooping intake, such as that on a firefighting aircraft. To energize the polymer gel emulsion, an accumulator is interposed between a polymer gel emulsion injection line and the water scooping intake. High energy water is routed to one side of the accumulator where this high energy water acts on the accumulator to move a movable element within the accumulator which pressurizes and expels polymer gel emulsion into the polymer gel emulsion injection line for injection of the polymer gel emulsion through a junction and into a mixed supply line of water and polymer gel emulsion downstream of a junction. The mixed polymer gel emulsion and water are routed to a tank for storage until ready for use.
US09498660B2 Fall arrest safety apparatus on a rope with clamping function
A fall arrest safety apparatus on a rope includes a rotary roller mounted on a pivoting arm with speed detection, and a control selector of a ratchet. The latter is able to occupy a released inactive position enabling the roller to rotate in both directions of rotation in a first fall arrest operating mode, and an active position with unidirectional blocking of the roller in rotation with respect to the arm in the descending direction corresponding to a second operating mode of the apparatus as a simple clamp.
US09498659B2 View pack for shock absorbing lanyard
A shock absorbing view pack is permanently attached with a material cover. A first inspection window is connected to the shock absorbing view pack. The first inspection window for inspecting an absorption portion of a lanyard disposed within the shock absorbing view pack.
US09498658B2 Respirator mask speech enhancement apparatus and method
Speech enhancement apparatus and respirator masks including speech enhancement apparatus, as well as methods of enhancing speech transmission for the wearer of a respirator mask are described herein. In one or more embodiments, the speech enhancement apparatus and methods described herein detect acoustic energy within a first frequency range in the clean air envelope of a respirator mask and deliver compensating acoustic energy outside of the clean air envelope using a speaker. The compensating acoustic energy, in one or more embodiments, exhibits a predetermined attenuated amplitude profile such that the compensating acoustic energy has an amplitude less than 6 dB greater than the acoustic attenuation profile of the mask body over at least 90% of a predetermined attenuated frequency range.
US09498651B2 Methods of soft tissue emulsification using a mechanism of ultrasonic atomization inside gas or vapor cavities and associated systems and devices
The present technology is directed to methods of soft tissue emulsification using a mechanism of ultrasonic atomization inside gas or vapor cavities, and associated systems and devices. In several embodiments, for example, a method of non-invasively treating tissue includes pulsing ultrasound energy from the ultrasound source toward the target site in tissue. The ultrasound source is configured to emit high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) waves. The target site comprises a pressure-release interface of a gas or vapor cavity located within the tissue. The method continues by generating shock waves in the tissue to induce a lesion in the tissue at the target site. The method additionally includes characterizing the lesion based on a degree of at least one of a mechanical or thermal ablation of the tissue.
US09498645B2 Dose deformation error calculation method and system
A method and system for determining a radiation dose transformation error are provided, wherein there is a deformation in one or more imaged structures as recorded by at least one fixed image data set and at least one moving image data set. Corresponding landmark points in the fixed image and in the moving image are automatically or semi-automatically identified.
US09498644B2 Apparatus for brachytherapy
A double-balloon brachytherapy catheter includes an outer-balloon that is filled with a liquid substance or air via an outer-balloon-filler. Further, an inner-balloon is filled with a liquid substance or air via an inner-balloon-filler, with the inner-balloon inserted inside the outer-balloon. Additionally, a plurality of radiation-tubes is positioned in association within the inner-balloon, such as to an outside border of the inner-balloon and within the outer-balloon. Each radiation-tube out of the plurality is segmented into segments of differing hardness. In addition, a vacuum-tube can be wrapped around an exterior of the outer-balloon, where the vacuum tube is used to remove fluids and air to create a void. Also, the plurality of radiation-tubes can be configured to run longitudinally along a central shaft of the double-balloon brachytherapy catheter.
US09498642B2 Eye therapy system
Embodiments apply a cross-linking agent to a region of corneal tissue. The cross-linking agent improves the ability of the corneal tissue to resist undesired structural changes. For example, the cross-linking agent may be Riboflavin or Rose Bengal, and the initiating element may be photoactivating light, such as ultraviolet (UV) light. In these embodiments, the photoactivating light initiates cross-linking activity by irradiating the applied cross-linking agent to release reactive oxygen radicals in the corneal tissue. The cross-linking agent acts as a sensitizer to convert O2 into singlet oxygen which causes cross-linking within the corneal tissue. The rate of cross-linking in the cornea is related to the concentration of O2 present when the cross-linking agent is irradiated with photoactivating light. Accordingly, the embodiments control the concentration of O2 during irradiation to increase or decrease the rate of cross-linking and achieve a desired amount of cross-linking.
US09498640B2 Phototherapy apparatus with interactive user interface
A phototherapy apparatus with interactive user interface for treating biological tissue of an animal or human target. The user interface comprises intuitive graphic menus which allow the clinicians or practitioners to define the properties of the biological tissue through easily observable physical characteristics such as weight, skin color, and hair color of the patient. The central control unit of the phototherapy apparatus then automatically optimizes the parameters of the light source according to the properties of the biological tissue and generates an appropriate treatment protocol to produce the optimum phototherapy result.
US09498637B2 Wearable cold plasma system
A system including a wearable cold plasma system, including a wearable cold plasma applicator configured to couple to and deliver a cold plasma to a surface of a user wearing the wearable cold plasma device.
US09498635B2 Implantable head located radiofrequency coupled neurostimulation system for head pain
An implantable head-mounted, radiofrequency (RF) coupled, unibody peripheral neurostimulation system is provided for implantation in the head for the purpose of treating chronic head pain, including migraine. The system may include an implantable pulse generator (IPG) from which multiple stimulating leads may extend sufficient to allow for adequate stimulation over multiple regions of the head, preferably including the frontal, parietal and occipital regions. A lead may include an extended body, along which may be disposed a plurality of surface metal electrodes (SME), which may be subdivided into a plurality of electrode arrays. A plurality of internal metal wires may run a portion of its length and connect the IPG's internal circuit to the SME. The IPG may include an RF receiver coil and an application specific integrated circuit. The IPG may be capable of functional connection to an external RF unit for purposes that may include power, diagnostics, and programming.
US09498634B2 Use of a new stimulation design to treat neurological disorder
The method and system described herein relate to stimulating nerve tissue using a pulse generator. A stimulus is created that comprises a signal that is produced from a frequency spectrum having a power spectral density per unit of bandwidth proportional to 1/fβ, wherein β is excludes 0. The stimulus is provided from the pulse generator to at least one stimulation lead; and applied to nerve tissue via one or several electrodes.
US09498631B2 Automated phrenic nerve stimulation and pacing capture threshold test
A medical device system and method for determining pacing threshold data that includes a cardiac capture sensor, a phrenic nerve stimulation sensor, a pulse generator selectively coupled to a plurality of electrode vectors to deliver a pacing stimulation pulse, and a processor coupled to the cardiac capture sensor, the phrenic nerve stimulation sensor and the pulse generator and configured to deliver the pacing simulation pulse along the plurality of electrode vectors, determine, for each vector of the plurality of vectors, a pacing capture threshold in response to the delivered pacing pulse, deliver a phrenic nerve stimulation pulse along only the vectors of the plurality of vectors that the determined pacing capture threshold is less than a predetermined pacing capture threshold limit, and determine whether phrenic nerve stimulation is detected in response to the delivered phrenic nerve stimulation pulse.
US09498629B2 Method and device for counterpulsation therapy
A method of counterpulsation therapy is provided, the method comprising use of a combination of cardiac electrical activity and acoustic signals in such a manner that initially R wave on a cardiogram and then II (aortic) sound are determined, and, after the II sound has been determined, stimulation of muscles by means of electric impulses is initiated. A device for performing the above described method comprises a sensor of the signal of cardiac electrical activity and a sensor of cardiac acoustic signal; a unit for blocking the cardiac electrical activity signal; a unit for blocking the acoustic signal; and a control device coupled with muscle stimulating devices.
US09498628B2 Electrode selection for electrical stimulation therapy
In one example, a method includes selecting, by one or more processors and based on a representation of sensed electrical signals for a particular patient and a plurality of representations of sensed electrical signals for a plurality of other patients, a combination of electrodes of a plurality of combinations of one or more implantable electrodes for delivery of electrical stimulation to the particular patient.
US09498613B2 Rotary tattoo machine with suspended motor give
A rotary tattoo machine with suspended motor give, includes: a frame adapted to receive and support rotary tattoo machine components; a spring mechanism having at least one spring connected to the frame; a D.C. rotary drive motor connected to the at least one spring and rotatably suspended from the spring mechanism relative to the frame, the D.C. rotary drive motor having a drive shaft and a cam extending therefrom; a needle drive mechanism connected to the cam; and, a tattoo needle connected to the needle drive mechanism. There is an optional spring tension adjustment mechanism connected to the at least one spring.
US09498610B2 Devices and methods for treating the skin using a rollerball or a wicking member
According to some embodiments, a skin treatment assembly comprises a handpiece comprising a distal end, the handpiece comprising a recess or cavity configured to receive a cartridge or other fluid container, a tip configured to be positioned along the distal end of the handpiece, the tip being configured to contact a skin surface of a subject during use, and at least one rollerball configured to extend to or near the tip, wherein the rollerball is configured to be in fluid communication with an interior of a cartridge or other fluid container secured to the handpiece, wherein the at least one rollerball is configured to contact the skin surface of the subject during use and to facilitate the delivery of fluids to said skin surface as the rollerball is moved relative to said skin surface.
US09498609B2 Permeant delivery system and methods for use thereof
Disclosed are a patch, system, and method for delivery of a permeant composition into a subject via at least one formed pathway through a biological membrane of the subject. The patch comprises a matrix, at least one hydrophilic permeant disposed within the matrix, wherein at least a portion of the permeant can dissolve in biological moisture received from the subject, and at least one permeability enhancer disposed within the matrix. Also disclosed are systems and methods for delivery of a permeant composition into a subject via at least one formed pathway through a skin layer of the subject.
US09498604B2 Medical device and method
A vessel-occluding medical device for the use in diagnosis and/or treatment of cardiovascular disease in the human body includes an outer tube, an inner tube slidably housed within the outer tube, and a tubular sleeve comprising a generally U-shaped, direction reversing region, which moves along the length of the tubular sleeve, to assume radially contracted and radially expanded state as the inner and outer tubes move between the first and second positions. When the tubular sleeve is in the radially expanded state, the inner portion of the tubular sleeve has a funnel-shaped surface and a longitudinally-extending opening to permit material to pass therethrough for receipt of material into the inner tube.
US09498599B2 Method of controllably directing a device into a human vessel
A method of controllably directing an elongate device into a vessel network including the steps of: obtaining a tubular component with a tubular wall bounding a passageway and having an aperture between spaced ends; directing an introducing member into the vessel network towards a target site; placing the introducing member and tubular component in an operative relationship wherein at least a portion of the introducing member resides within the passageway; relatively repositioning the introducing member and tubular component by guided movement, one against the other, to place the aperture at an introduction location; and directing the device through the passageway to and through the aperture to the target site.
US09498596B1 Catheter
A catheter with an improved retaining, activation and locking features is provided which is a safe device with reduced irritation and discomfort for a patient. The retaining mechanism positioned at the proximal end of the catheter assumes a “closed” position for introduction and removal of the catheter into and from the body cavity of a patient, and is transitioned into the “open” position when the catheter is positioned within the body cavity by mechanically manipulating the retaining mechanism through an activation mechanism having a piston member slideably displaceable within a cylinder housing member. A locking mechanism is included for maintaining the catheter in the “open” position.
US09498591B2 Laryngeal mask airway device with a support for preventing occlusion
The invention relates to a laryngeal mask airway device (1) for insertion into patient to provide an airway passage to the patient's glottic opening, the device (1) including an airway tube (2), a mask (3) attached to the airway tube (2), the mask (3) including a body (4) having a distal end (5) and a proximal end (6), a peripheral inflatable cuff (7), and an outlet (8), the mask (3) being attached to the airway tube (2) for gaseous communication between the tube (2) and the outlet (8), the device (1) further including a structure to prevent occlusion of the outlet (8) by the patient's anatomy, the structure including a support (11), and a conduit (28a) to allow gas to flow out of the outlet (8), past the support.
US09498588B2 Portable pen sized electric herb vaporizer with ceramic heating chamber
A portable pen sized electric herb vaporizer with ceramic heating chamber is an elongated and cylindrical device used to vaporize the active ingredient of or burn herbs, having a battery, a heating compartment, a chamber connector, and a mouthpiece. Two threaded screw interfaces attach the battery to the heating compartment and the heating compartment to the chamber connector. The mouthpiece holds a ceramic filter and is inserted into the chamber connector. The heating compartment has a ceramic heating chamber within which herbs are placed, and a heating coil connected to the battery within the ceramic heating chamber heats the herbs. The user presses an activator button and inhales through the mouthpiece, drawing heated air over the herbs, through the chamber connector and into the user's lungs. The chamber connector has a disk filter to catch ash and a spring that presses on the herbs for efficient vaporization.
US09498586B2 Infusion pump system and related methods
An infusion pump system including an infusion tubing for delivering a fluid, a heat exchanger cartridge in fluid communication with the infusion tubing and removably coupled to at least one thermal element for heating or cooling the fluid, a motor driven pump in mechanical communication with the infusion tubing and configured to pump the fluid through the infusion tubing and the heat exchanger cartridge, and a central controller in electrical communication with the motor driven pump and the at least one thermal element. The central controller is configured to selectively deliver the fluid to a patient without heating or cooling the fluid by causing the motor driven pump to pump the fluid through the infusion tubing and the heat exchanger cartridge while the thermal element is off.
US09498584B2 Apparatus and method for targeting a body tissue
An apparatus for targeting a desired target site on a body tissue comprising a wall of a first body cavity of a patient includes a target catheter. The framing member has a longitudinal framing member core defining a central framing member axis. At least one target point is carried by the framing member and is adapted for placement adjacent the desired target site. The framing member comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending multi-segment framing strands.
US09498582B2 Liquid administration device
A liquid administration device includes: a cylindrical body filled with liquid; a needle tube configured to communicate or be communicable with the cylindrical body at its tip side, and to have a sharp needle tip; a gasket configured to slide within the cylindrical body; an operation member configured to to discharge the liquid by pressing the gasket toward the tip direction; a cover member configured to be capable of moving to a first position, in which at least the needle tip is covered, to a second position, in which the needle tip is exposed, and to a third position, in which at least the needle tip is re-covered; and a cover member that can move from the first position to the second position to a third position to re-cover the needle tip.
US09498581B2 Reconstitution means for safety device
The present disclosure describes a needle guard device or system that can be used with drugs requiring reconstitution. The needle guard is preferably a passive needle guard that can be used during reconstitution without activating the safety mechanism. Following administration of the medication, the needle guard shields a user from inadvertent needle sticks by extending a protective shield over the needle.
US09498571B2 Nitric oxide delivery devices
A nitric oxide delivery device includes a housing that is permeable to nitric oxide. The surface of the housing is modified to detect surface charge or pH (e.g., due to cell adhesion). A working electrode (which is a copper-containing conductive material or a base material coated with a copper-containing conductive material) is positioned inside of the housing. A reference/counter electrode is also positioned inside of the housing, and is electrically isolated from the working electrode. A source of nitrite ions is to be contained within the housing such that it is in contact with the working electrode.
US09498566B2 Selective cytopheresis devices and related methods thereof
The present invention relates to systems and devices to treat and/or prevent inflammatory conditions within a subject and to related methods. More particularly, the invention relates to systems, devices, and related methods that sequester leukocytes and/or platelets and then inhibit their inflammatory action.
US09498561B2 Fiber wadding for filling bone defects
A method for producing a flocculent three dimensional fibrous bioactive material using an electrospinning process includes electrospinning a biodegradable fiber by applying an electrical charge to a nozzle of an electrospinning apparatus such that a spinning solution contained therein is made into an electrospun fiber, which is attracted toward a collector container that is electrically grounded and is filled with an ethanol liquid; receiving the electrospun fiber emitted from the nozzle on a surface of the ethanol liquid in the collector container; recovering and drying the electrospun fiber to obtain the flocculent three dimensional fibrous bioactive material having a bulk density of from about 0.01 g/cm3 to about 0.1 g/cm3 as measured in accordance with JIS L 1097.
US09498559B2 Reinforced vascular protheses
Vascular grafts for treating, reconstructing and replacing damaged or diseased cardiovascular vessels that are formed from decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM). The vascular grafts include outer or outer and inner coatings that provide structural reinforcement.
US09498558B2 Biodegradeable putty compositions and implant devices, methods, and kits relating to the same
Disclosed are phospholipid based compositions and implant devices, as well as methods and kits that include such compositions or components thereof. In particular, the present compositions include a polymer component such as a poloxamer or PEG component and a phospholipid component, such as a Phosal. The present compositions may include at least one additional component, such as granules, powder and/or particulates. The present compositions may further include one or more bone graft materials and/or active ingredients. The compositions may be used on their own or incorporated on or in a surgical implant.
US09498557B2 Crosslinking methods and applications thereof
Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a method for forming a biomaterial in situ comprising: combining a solution of a crosslinker in a water soluble organic solvent with a precursor to covalently crosslink the precursor to form a crosslinked gel, with the crosslinker comprising a plurality of first functional groups and the precursor comprising a plurality of second functional groups, with the first functional groups chemically reacting with the second functional groups in situ to form covalent bonds and thereby form the crosslinked gel.
US09498555B2 Air filtration media for air purification
An air filtration media for use with a heating ventilation and air condition (HVAC) system is provided. The filtration media comprises an air filter media layer having a first and second side, a PCO media layer having a first and second side, and a barrier layer positioned between the second side of the air filter media layer and the first side of the PCO media layer. The air filter media layer, barrier layer, and PCO layer are pleated together and enclosed within a frame for placement adjacent a light source within a plenum of the HVAC system.
US09498548B2 Method of using oxidative reductive potential water solution in dental applications
Methods of using oxidative reduction potential (ORP) water solution that is stable for at least twenty-four hours in dental applications are provided. The ORP water solution can be administered to patients for the routine disinfection of the oral cavity as part of an on-going program of oral hygiene. The ORP water solution can further be used to irrigate and/or disinfect oral tissues and surfaces during dental procedures, oral surgery, or maxillo-facial surgery. Also, the ORP water solution can be administered to treat patients with damage to the oral tissues caused by disease or surgery.
US09498547B2 Dye solution
The invention relates to a water-based biocompatible non-cytotoxic preparation for the selective staining of internal limiting membrane (ILM) and/or epiretinal membranes (ERM) in the human or animal eye, and to a kit containing said water-based preparation according to the invention.
US09498546B2 Synthesis and application of novel imaging agents conjugated to DPA 713 analogs for imaging inflammation
The present invention provides analog compounds of DPA-713 which specifically bind the translocator protein (TSPO), which is upregulated in activated leukocytes, some malignant tumors and tissues involved in steroid biogenesis. These compounds are linked via a linking moiety to a variety of imaging agents, including, for example, near infra-red dyes. The compounds of the present invention are useful for both pre-clinical near-IR fluorescence imaging (NIRF) and use in optically-guided interventions including NIRF endoscopy. Methods of use in diagnosis and treatment of TSPO related disease are also provided.
US09498541B2 Cross-linkers and their uses
Charged or pro-charged cross-linking moieties and conjugates of cell binding agents and drugs comprising the charged or pro-charged cross-linking moieties and method of making the same.
US09498538B2 Translocation of non-natural chemical entities through anthrax protective antigen pore
Disclosed is a new approach for delivering compounds and drugs to the cytosol of living cells through the use of engineered protein transporters. The engineered protein transporters include a pore and a pore specific delivery protein, wherein a reagent such as a drug is attached to one or more of the engineered protein transporters.
US09498537B2 Method of enhancing efficacy of blood transfusions
A method of improving the efficacy of a blood transfusion into a subject is provided comprising administering a composition comprising an EAF PEGylated-blood protein into the subject, prior to, during, or subsequent to the blood transfusion.
US09498531B2 Antibodies that neutralize RSV, MPV and PVM and uses thereof
The invention relates to antibodies, and antigen binding fragments thereof, that neutralize infection of both RSV, MPV and PVM. The invention also relates to nucleic acids that encode, immortalized B cells and cultured plasma cells that produce, and to polypeptides that bind to such antibodies and antibody fragments. In addition, the invention relates to the use of the antibodies, antibody fragments, and polypeptides recognized by the antibodies of the invention in screening methods as well as in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of RSV or MPV infection and RSV and MPV co-infection.
US09498529B2 Methods for treating or preventing influenza virus infection by administering a serine protease inhibitor
The present invention provides methods for treating or preventing influenza virus infection. The methods of the present invention comprise administering to a subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition comprising a type II transmembrane serine protease (TTSP) inhibitor. The TTSP inhibitor preferably functions by inhibiting the proteolytic cleavage of influenza hemagglutinin (HA0) into the functional subunits HA1 and HA2. In certain embodiments, the TTSP inhibitor is an inhibitor of transmembrane protease serine S1 member 2 (TMPRSS2), such as an anti-TMPRSS2 antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof.
US09498522B2 Immunotherapeutic compositions for the treatment of alzheimer'S disease
A safe and effective vaccine to prevent, slow, halt or reverse progression of Alzheimer's disease in human patients is disclosed. The vaccine includes Aβ1-42 or an beta amyloid self epitope (e.g. Aβ1-15, or other 7-mer or 15-mer peptide epitopes derived from Aβ1-42) conjugated to an immunogenic carrier (e.g. DT) formulated in a water-in-oil Th2-biased adjuvant/delivery system.
US09498518B2 Targeting of glycoprotein therapeutics
Methods of making ligand-decorated polymer conjugates of therapeutic glycoproteins are described. Improved targeting of glycoproteins to specific tissues is achieved by masking the natural carbohydrate and other surface determinants with high molecular weight polymers, such as, e.g., PEG, polysialic acid, etc., which in turn are decorated with target-specific ligands. In some embodiments, acid-labile linkages in such conjugates or rapidly degradable masking groups allow for the intracellular release of the polymer from the glycoprotein, for example, under conditions found in lysosomes.
US09498511B2 Methods related to the treatment of neurodegenerative and inflammatory conditions
The invention includes methods of neuroprotection, inducing release of neurotrophic factors, inhibiting the over-activation of innate immune cells, attenuating the toxin-induced death and/or damage of tissues, reducing inflammation, treating an inflammation-related condition, and inhibiting NADPH oxidase, that includes contacting or administering an effective amount of at least one compound of the invention that include: valproic acid, sodium butyrate, and salts thereof; opioid peptides; a peptide comprising the tripeptide GGF; and morphinans, such as naloxone, naltrexone, 3-hydroxy-morphinan and dextromethorphan.
US09498510B2 Polypeptide, nucleotide sequence thereof, and method for using the same for preventing DNA synthesis and inhibiting cell proliferation
A polypeptide represented by SEQ ID NO: 1 and a method for treatment of a tumor and another disease associated with abnormal cell proliferation are described. The method includes administering a pharmaceutically-effective amount of the polypeptide to a patient in need thereof.
US09498509B2 TIMP3 as VEGF inhibitor
Polypeptides or proteins comprising tissue inhibitor of mettaloproteinases-3 (TIMP3) or variants of TIMP3 can be used to substantially inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) binding to VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR2/KDR/Flk-1)) without substantially inhibiting VEGF binding to VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1/Flt-1).
US09498505B2 Embelia concinna extract comprising flavonoids in cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions
The present invention deals with an Embelia extract—preferably an extract from Embelia concinna titrated in flavonoids—, its process for preparation and its use in a cosmetical or pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of skin sensitivity, for the treatment of allergic reactions of the skin, for soothing and for the treatment of itching skin and for the regulation of inflammatory drifts in the skin.
US09498494B2 Glycosaminoglycans
Heparan sulphate HS/BMP2 is disclosed, together with the use of HS/BMP2 in the repair and regeneration of bone tissue.
US09498491B2 Methods for extraction of bioactive polyelectrolytes from humified organic materials
Improved methods for the separation and isolation of bioactive polyelectrolytes, such as humic acid, fulvic acid, ulmic acid, and humin, from any one or a combination of naturally occurring or synthetically produced humified organic matter (HOM) are described. The methods involve the application of an electromagnetic field to an aqueous slurry of the HOM to thereby separate one or more bioactive polyelectrolyte fractions from the remaining of the HOM. Related systems and isolated bioactive polyelectrolyte fractions are also described.
US09498490B2 Method for treatment of disease with pure porcine monosialoganglioside GM1
A process for preparing pure monosialoganglioside GM1 in the form of its sodium salt. There is provided a process for the isolation and purification of monosialoganglioside GM1 comprising (a) separation of GM1 from a lipidic mixture containing the monosialoganglioside GM1 as the main ganglioside component by ion exchange column-chromatography using an eluent comprising potassium or caesium ions, (b) recovery of the solute from the eluted solution, (c) diafiltration of an aqueous solution of the recovered solute, and (d) second diafiltration after the addition of 1 M NaCl, and recovering GM1. The purity level of GM1 obtained is higher than 99.0%.
US09498489B2 Antimetabolite agent combinations in the treatment of cancer
A method treating cancer in a subject comprises administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an antimetabolite agent that induces formation of AP sites in cancer cells of the subjects and an amount AP endonuclease inhibitor effective to potentiate the cytotoxicity of the antimetabolite agent to the cancer cells.
US09498487B2 Topical cromolyn formulations
The present invention provides a topical composition comprising (a) at least one delivery agent compound and (b) a cromoglycic acid compound. Methods of treatment, and methods of preparing the topical composition are also provided.
US09498486B1 Method for controlled release oral dosage of a vitamin D compound
A stable, controlled release formulation for oral dosing of vitamin D compounds is disclosed. The formulation is prepared by incorporating one or more vitamin D compounds into a solid or semi-solid mixture of waxy materials. Oral dosage forms can be prepared by melt-blending the components described herein and filling gelatin capsules with the formulation.
US09498484B2 Treatment of fibrosis using FXR ligands
The present invention relates to a method for inhibiting fibrosis that occurs in an organ where the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is expressed. This method involves the step of administering a high potency, activating ligand of FXR in an effective amount to a patient who is not suffering from a cholestatic condition. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing an effective amount of an FXR ligand and kits for dispensing the pharmaceutical compositions.
US09498482B2 Treatment of erectile dysfunction and other indications
The present invention generally relates to the transdermal delivery of various compounds. In some aspects, transdermal delivery may be facilitated by the use of a hostile biophysical environment. One set of embodiments provides a composition for topical delivery comprising a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor and/or a salt thereof, and optionally, a hostile biophysical environment and/or a nitric oxide donor. In some cases, the composition may be stabilized using a combination of a stabilization polymer (such as xanthan gum, KELTROL® BT and/or KELTROL® RD), propylene glycol, and a polysorbate surfactant such as Polysorbate 20, which combination unexpectedly provides temperature stability to the composition, e.g., at elevated temperatures such as at least 40° C. (at least about 104° F.), as compared to compositions lacking one or more of these.
US09498476B2 Crystalline form of 6-[(4S)-2-methyl-4-(2-naphthyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-7-yl]pyridazin-3-amine
The present disclosure generally relates to a crystalline form of 6-[(4S)-2-methyl-4-(naphthyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-7-yl]pyridazin-3-amine. The present disclosure also generally relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the crystalline form, as well of methods of using a crystalline form in the treatment of depression and other conditions and methods for obtaining such crystalline form.
US09498474B2 Compositions of buprenorphine and μ Antagonists
The invention relates to a composition comprising buprenorphine and a μ opioid receptor antagonist, wherein the composition is characterized by an Agonist Antagonist Activity Index (AAnAI) of between about 0.7 and about 2.2; wherein; AAnAI = [ C max ⁡ ( BUP ) / EC 50 ] [ C max ⁡ ( ANTAGONIST ) / IC 50 ] .
US09498472B2 Methods using 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3-dihydro-isoindol-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione for treatment of certain leukemias
Methods of treating, preventing or managing leukemias are disclosed. The methods encompass the administration of an immunomodulatory compound of the invention known as Revlimid® or lenalidomide. The invention further relates to methods of treatment using this compound with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy or immunotherapy. Pharmaceutical compositions and single unit dosage forms suitable for use in the methods of the invention are also disclosed.
US09498471B2 Use of CDK9 inhibitors to reduce cartilage degradation
The present invention relates to the use of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) inhibitors to reduce, inhibit and/or prevent cartilage degradation. CDK9 inhibitors can be used to reduce, inhibit and/or prevent cartilage degradation and loss of cartilage viability during allograft storage. CDK9 inhibitors can be used as a post-injury intervention treatment to reduce, inhibit and/or prevent the acute cellular responses that lead to future cartilage degradation and osteoarthritis.
US09498465B2 Topical compositions in the form of a gel containing a particular solubilized retinoid
A composition in the form of a gel, preferably hydroglycolic, is described. The composition can include in a physiologically acceptable medium, at least one particular retinoid. Also described, is a method for the preparation thereof and the cosmetic and dermatological use of the same.
US09498460B1 Halogenated tetracyclic compounds
The anti-cancer compounds are represented by Formula I: wherein R1 and R2 are either both hydrogen or both halogen, and if R1 and R2 are both hydrogen, R3 and R4 are both halogen, otherwise both R3 and R4 are hydrogen; wherein R5 is CHO or NHCH3; and wherein n is 0 to 3; provided that n is 0 only when R5 is CHO, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or isomer thereof.
US09498455B2 Cinacalcet and neuroblastic tumours
The present invention relates to the field of pediatric or childhood tumor therapy. More specifically, the invention relates to the use of the allosteric activator of the calcium sensor receptor, cinacalcet, for the preparation of a pharmaceutical product for the treatment of neuroblastic tumors, particularly for the treatment of neuroblastomas, ganglioneuroblastomas and ganglioneuromas.
US09498454B2 Transmucosal drug delivery system
Disclosed are preparations and formulations of high thermodynamic activity lipophilic associations (LA), in which there is pairing between an ionizable pharmaceutical agent and a lipophilic species having ionic characteristics opposite to that of the pharmaceutical agent. Such lipophilic associations manifest high thermodynamic activity, as evidenced by their being predominantly in a liquid phase at room temperature or solvated in a lower-than-water dielectric solvent. Further the pharmaceutical agent being solubilized means that dissolution is not rate limiting to transmucosal absorption. This LA or LA-solvate is formulated into a low dielectric dosage form, from whence, upon the dosage form's hydration, the pharmaceutical agent is driven through the mucosal tissue and into systemic circulation. The invention therefore provides an enhanced transmucosal drug delivery system for ionizable pharmaceutical agents at or near physiological pH.
US09498453B2 Trk-inhibiting compound
The present invention provides a drug containing a compound having Trk-inhibiting activity as an active ingredient in prophylaxis and/or therapy for Trk-related diseases such as pain, pruritus, lower urinary tract dysfunction, asthma, allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease or Chagas disease. A compound represented by the general formula (I), wherein all symbols represent the same meanings as described in the specification, a salt thereof, an N-oxide thereof, a solvate thereof or a prodrug thereof is useful as a drug component having Trk-inhibiting activity in prophylaxis and/or therapy of diseases such as pain, pruritus, lower urinary tract dysfunction, asthma, allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease or Chagas disease.
US09498452B2 Treatment of CNS disorders with trans 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenamine
Treatment of CNS disorders with (1R,4S)-trans 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenamine; and (1S,4R)-trans 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenamine is disclosed. A process for preparing 4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenamine is also disclosed. The process includes the preparation of all four isomers of N-[4-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-yl]formamide, which are also useful.
US09498449B2 Methods of feeding animals liquid feed with soluble fiber and sugar alcohol
An animal feed such as a milk replacer includes a soluble fiber and a sugar alcohol. The milk replacer enhances weight gain, starter intake and reduces weaning time. The method of feeding the animal includes feeding a mixture of a soluble fiber and sugar alcohol. The animal feed may be used as a method of weaning young ruminants such as calves.
US09498448B2 Pharmaceutical compositions comprising monoterpenes
The present invention provides a process for purifying a monoterpene or sesquiterpene having a purity greater than about 98.5% (w/w). The process comprises the steps of derivatizing the monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) to produce a monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) derivative, separating the monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) derivative, and releasing the monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) from the derivative. Also encompassed by the scope of the present invention is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) having a purity greater than about 98.5% (w/w). The purified monoterpene can be used to treat a disease such as cancer. The present monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) may be administered alone, or may be co-administered with radiation or other therapeutic agents, such as chemotherapeutic agents.
US09498447B2 Compositions for treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Therapeutic compositions deliver a therapeutic amount of methylphenidate in a delayed and extended release formulation. The dosage form exhibits a lag time prior to release of from 6 to 8 hours or longer, followed by a sustained release period.
US09498445B2 Pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori
Single oral solid dosage form comprising an immediate release first dosage composition having at least two antibiotic agents and a delayed release second dosage composition having a proton pump inhibitor are provided herein. The single oral solid dosage form according to some aspects of the invention can be used for the treatment of disorders associated with infection by H. pylori or the prevention of recurrence of disorders associated with infection by H. pylori.
US09498440B2 Extended release pharmaceutical compositions
The present invention provides extended release pharmaceutical compositions structured for once a day administration comprising skeletal muscle relaxant such as cyclobenzaprine or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof that extends the release of the drug under in-vitro conditions for at least 8 to 12 hours. The invention also provides process for the preparation of such structured compositions.
US09498438B2 Compositions of efavirenz
The present inventions relates to a solid composition and an aqueous dispersion comprising nanoparticles of the anti-retroviral drug efavirenz. The solid composition and aqueous dispersion additionally comprise a mixture of a hydrophilic polymer and a surfactant. The surfactant is selected from vitamin-E-polyethylene glycol-succinate (Vit-E-PEG-succinate), a polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, N-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, sodium deoxycholate, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, polyethyleneglycol-12-hydroxystearate, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and a block copolymer of polyoxyethylene and polyoxypropylene, or a combination thereof. The hydrophilic polymer is suitably selected from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a polyvinyl alcohol-polyethylene glycol graft copolymer, a block copolymer of polyoxyethylene and polyoxypropylene, polyethylene glycol, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and polyvinylpyrrolidone, or a combination thereof. The present invention also relates to processes for preparing both the solid composition and the aqueous dispersion, as well as to their use in therapy for the treatment and/or prevention of retroviral infections such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
US09498437B2 Inhalable formulations for treating pulmonary hypertension and methods of using same
The present invention is directed to an inhalable formulation for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension in a mammal (e.g., humans), wherein the formulation comprises at least one hypertension reducing agent, including but not limited to an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blocker, beta-blocker, calcium-channel blocker or vasodilator, or any combination thereof. The formulations of the present invention may be a solution or suspension, and preferably are suitable for administration via nebulization. The present invention is also directed to a method and kit for treating a mammal suffering from pulmonary hypertension.
US09498436B2 Testosterone solutions for the treatment of testosterone deficiency
Solutions of testosterone for oromucosal administration providing an increase in serum testosterone levels in subjects deficient in endogenous testosterone levels, and therapeutic methods for providing an increase in serum testosterone levels and methods for treating a disease or a symptom associated with deficient endogenous levels of testosterone.
US09498434B2 Dissolvable dietary supplement strip and methods for using the same
A strip, which is both edible and dissolvable, is provided comprising a film and a dosage of at least 2% of the reference daily intake (RDI) of at least one dietary supplement for malnutrition or to prevent/treat alcohol induced hangovers. A method for treating malnutrition and/or preventing and treating alcohol-induced hangovers using a dissolvable orally administered strip.
US09498433B1 Edible animal medicine container
An edible animal medicine container for delivering medicine or other ingestible material, contained therein, to an animal, includes first and second edible housing shells. The first shell includes a first peripheral ledge, surrounding a first central hollow, and a first interlocking feature extending therefrom. The second shell includes a second peripheral ledge, surrounding a second central hollow, and a second interlocking feature extending into, and at least partially defined by, the second peripheral ledge. The second shell is positionable relative to, and connectable to, the first shell to define an interior in which the ingestible material may be disposed. In such connected state the first interlocking feature is seated and frictionally held within the second interlocking feature of the second edible housing shell so as to retain the first and second shells together and thereby retain the ingestible material within the interior until ingested by an animal.
US09498429B2 Use of a vegetal extract for the prevention and treatment of hair loss
The present invention relates, in one aspect, to the use of a composition based on a vegetal extract of Galeopsis segetum Necker and of a physiologically acceptable carrier in the treatment or prevention of hair loss. The composition finds application in the field of trichology and may be applied topically on the scalp or administered orally.
US09498428B2 Topical skin care formulations comprising plant extracts
Disclosed is a method of treating a skin condition, the method comprising topically applying to skin in need thereof a composition comprising an effective amount of an aqueous or alcoholic extract from the leaf of Quassia undulata, wherein the composition treats the skin condition by reducing COX-1, lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, TNF-α, melanogenesis, or MMP-1 activity in the skin.
US09498426B2 Process for treating hair fibers using polysiloxane/polyurea
A process for treating hair fibers comprising: applying to the hair fibers at least one cosmetic composition comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium, at least one polysiloxane/polyurea block copolymer; and subsequently or simultaneously heating the hair fibers at a temperature ranging from 50 to 280° C.
US09498425B2 Oral care compositions
Described herein are oral care compositions comprising a crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone complexed with hydrogen peroxide, together with particular co-polymers as additional excipients; including some embodiments which further comprise a calcium abrasive.
US09498424B2 Active mixtures of acylated oligopeptides and troxerutin
An active mixture having (a) acylated oligopeptides, and (b) troxerutin, useful for increasing hair growth and in particular density of eyelashes and eyebrows.
US09498423B2 Synergistic selenopeptide formulations for the protection of dermal papilla cells
The present invention discloses selenium peptide based synergistic compositions for the protection (morphology and viable numbers) of dermal papilla cells. The synergistic compositions disclosed in the present invention comprise (a) 1-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (β-glucogallin) or 1-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (β-glucogallin) and gallates (b) concentrate of liquid endosperm of Cocos nucifera and (c) selenopeptides.
US09498422B2 Silicone elastomer particle and an aqueous dispersion comprising the same
One of the purposes of the present invention is to provide a silicone elastomer particle and an aqueous dispersion of the silicone elastomer particles, which prevent generation of odor from oxygenation of nonionic surfactants. The present invention provides a silicone elastomer particle having a crosslinking structure formed by an addition reaction of a monovalent aliphatic unsaturated group bonded to a silicon atom and a hydrogen atom bonded to another silicon atom, wherein the silicone elastomer particle contains an antioxidant. Further, present invention provides an aqueous dispersion comprising the silicone elastomer particles, a nonionic surfactant and water.
US09498420B2 Cosmetic compositions and methods for inhibiting melanin synthesis
A cosmetic composition suitable for topical application, for example, is provided. In some examples, the cosmetic composition may include batyl alcohol, undecylenoyl phenylalanine, hexyldecanol, and bisabolol. A method of reducing the synthesis of melanin by using the cosmetic compositions is also disclosed herein.
US09498419B2 Keratin treatment formulations and methods
Formulations, kits, and methods for rebuilding the disulfide bonds in keratin found in hair, skin, or nails. Hair that is damaged due to a hair coloring treatment and/or other reducing treatment, such as during a permanent wave, can be treated with the formulations containing one or more active agents. The formulations may be applied subsequent to a hair coloring treatment or simultaneously with a hair coloring treatment. Use of the active agent formulations during a permanent wave treatment prevents the reversion of the hair to its previous state, for at least one week, preferably at least three months, more preferably at least one year, most preferably greater than one year, after one or more than one application of the formulation. Application of the active agent formulation to skin or nails can help repair damaged disulfide bonds due to natural wear and tear or natural aging.
US09498415B2 Method of countering residual mouth alcohol
A residual mouth alcohol inhibitor configured as an oral composition that absorbs residual mouth alcohol that remains in the mouth of an individual following the consumption of alcohol. The oral composition comprises a combination of sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, parsley, kelp, fructose, citric acid, natural flavors, artificial flavors, maltodextrin, and silicon dioxide whereby the ratio of sodium bicarbonate to calcium carbonate in the composition is approximately 1:1 and the ratio of sodium bicarbonate to parsley in the composition is approximately 2:1 and the ratio of parsley to kelp in the composition is approximately 4:1.
US09498413B2 Antimicrobials and methods of use thereof for wound healing
This disclosure provides generally for antimicrobial compositions and methods of use comprising an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof. Methods for promoting healing of a wound using these compositions are also disclosed. These compositions have broad spectrum antimicrobial activity and are safe for human and animal uses. Further, these compositions are safe for medical uses and industrial uses as antiseptic preparations to reduce or prevent microbial growth.
US09498409B2 Cosmetic skin covering sheets and their method of preparation
The invention is directed to a cosmetic skin covering sheet which comprises a patch containing a cosmetic material for application to the skin or a cosmetic formulation which forms the cosmetic skin covering sheet in-situ upon topical application of the cosmetic formulation onto the skin, wherein each of said patch or cosmetic formulation comprises an ionic silicone as described herein.
US09498401B2 Robotic system for simulating a wearable device and method of use
A robotic system for simulating a wearable device actuation delivery mechanism and the source removed from the actuation delivery mechanism that is linked to the actuation delivery mechanism by at least one cable. A sensing system detects a physiological feature of the subject and, based on feedback from the sensing system, a control system linked to both the sensing system and the actuation source modulates the actuation source, and thereby modulating actuation of the joint of a subject in response to the physiological future sensed by the sensing system. A method for simulating a wearable robotic system employs the robotic system of the invention to thereby provide a model on which to base design of an ambulatory prosthetic for a subject.
US09498399B1 Therapeutic knee apparatus
A therapeutic knee apparatus for exercising a knee or rehabilitating an injured knee including a squared U-shaped member having an adjustable length central member to which is attached a leg member at each end thereof. A fulcrum is fixedly attached to the central member. An adjustable length lever arm is secured to the fulcrum at selected angular positions with respect to the central member and a handle is attached to the lever arm at a distal end thereof.
US09498396B2 Medical lock for pressure vessel for human occupancy
The present invention describes a medical, supply or transfer lock (120) for a pressure vessel (100) for human occupancy. The medical lock (120) includes a body tube (122), an outer door flange (124) and an outer door (140) in sealing face relation with an inside face (125) of the outer door flange (124). In an embodiment, the outer door (124) has upper rollers (146a) and lower rollers (146b). The upper rollers run on a horizontal rail (160) while the lower rollers run on a slant rail (170), which is mounted below the horizontal rail (160). The ends of the horizontal and slant rails (160,170) are curved (163, 172) so that weight component of the outer door is generated to assist the outer door to close. When pressure in the medical lock (120) is increased, the outer door (140) of this medical lock (120) becomes self-locking and self-sealing.
US09498392B2 Absorbent article with leg gasketing cuff
A disposable absorbent article may include a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, and a leg gasketing system. The leg gasketing system may include an inner cuff and an outer cuff; the inner cuff may include an inner cuff folded edge and an inner cuff material edge and the outer cuff may include an outer cuff folded edge and an outer cuff material edge, such that the web of material is folded laterally inward to form the outer cuff folded edge and folded laterally outward to form the inner cuff folded edge.
US09498390B2 Method of constructing absorbent articles comprising graphics
An absorbent article may comprise a first zone comprising graphics and a second zone comprising graphics, wherein the first and second zones have different elastic properties. Further, the absorbent article may comprise a first absorbent article component and a second absorbent article component having substantially different elastic properties, wherein the first absorbent article component comprises an elastomer. Additionally, the absorbent article may comprise a third absorbent article component overlapping the first and second absorbent article components, wherein the third absorbent article component comprises graphics on at least the portions which overlap the first and second absorbent article components.
US09498389B2 Method of constructing absorbent articles comprising graphics
An absorbent article may comprise a first zone comprising graphics and a second zone comprising graphics, wherein the first and second zones have different elastic properties. Further, the absorbent article may comprise a first absorbent article component and a second absorbent article component having substantially different elastic properties, wherein the first absorbent article component comprises an elastomer. Additionally, the absorbent article may comprise a third absorbent article component overlapping the first and second absorbent article components, wherein the third absorbent article component comprises graphics on at least the portions which overlap the first and second absorbent article components.
US09498381B2 Steerable laser probe and methods of use
A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, a housing sleeve disposed in an inner bore of the handle configured to project a distance from the handle distal end, an optic fiber disposed in the housing sleeve, a shape memory sleeve disposed over a distal end of the optic fiber, and a light source configured to connect to a proximal end of the optic fiber. The shape memory sleeve may be configured to curve the distal end of the optic fiber at an angle, e.g., 90 degrees, when the shape memory sleeve is not contained within the housing sleeve.
US09498378B2 Minimal pulsation ophthalmic probe
An ophthalmic apparatus for performing an ocular surgery may include an ophthalmic probe body having an inner cutting member at least partially disposed within and moveable relative to an aspiration tube within the probe body to facilitate flow of aspiration fluid. A motor within the body may be configured to actuate the inner cutting member relative to the aspiration tube.
US09498369B2 Modular shoulder external rotation wedge system and method
A modular sling and pillow system for setting an appropriate abduction angle and external rotation angle in a shoulder joint. The patient's forearm is secured in a sling. An abduction pillow is fastened to the patient's side, just above the waist and facing the elbow contained within the sling. An appropriate external rotation wedge is then attached to the abduction pillow. The external rotation wedge is preferably fastened to the abduction pillow using VELCRO fasteners so that it can be easily removed and replaced. The abduction pillow pivots the upper arm outward. The external rotation wedge rotates the upper arm by moving the wrist out away from the body. The sling is attached to the external rotation wedge so that an integral brace comprising the sling, the external rotation wedge, and the abduction pillow is created.
US09498368B2 Device for gripping the forearm of a user suffering from muscular problems in the elbow
A device is provided for gripping the forearm of a user suffering from muscular problems in the elbow. The device defines a rigid but elastically deformable U-shaped body, and has a bottom. The device includes a first limb and a second limb, and two supporting elements which are mounted on the body such that each one is essentially located on a free end part of a limb of the body. One of the limbs of the body defines a first curved part which is adjacent to the bottom wherein the concave region of the curved part is oriented towards the inside of the body, and a second curved part which extends from the first part towards the free end of the limb. The concave region of the second part is oriented towards the outside of the body such that the limb of the U has a transversal flexion line.
US09498363B2 Delivery catheter for endovascular device
Some embodiments relate in part to endovascular prostheses and delivery catheter systems and methods for deploying same. Embodiments may be directed more specifically to graft bodies having self-expanding members, including inflatable graft bodies, and catheters and methods for deploying same within the body of a patient.
US09498359B2 Polymer scaffolds for peripheral vessels
A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold has a structure that produces a low late lumen loss when implanted within a peripheral vessel and also exhibits a high axial fatigue life. In a preferred embodiment the scaffold forms ring structures interconnected by links, where a ring has 12 crowns and at most two links connecting adjacent rings.
US09498355B2 Suspension liner having multiple component system
A residual limb suspension liner for a prosthesis has a first layer defined by a first elastomeric material and forms a continuous circumferential internal surface of the liner. The liner also includes a second layer defined by a second elastomeric material different from the first elastomeric material. The second layer has a first surface adjacent to and integrally joined to the first layer. The second layer has a variable radial thickness over an anterior aspect of the liner.
US09498354B2 Actuation system for a joint
An actuation system for a joint includes an actuator having a piston, an articulating element coupled to the actuator that is driven by the piston to match a gait cycle of an appendage, an energy source engaged with the piston that energizes working fluid within the actuator to drive the piston and generate exhaust gas, a plurality of valves coupled to the actuator, and an exhaust gas holding element coupled to the actuator that is sized to hold a volume of the exhaust gas contained within the actuator.
US09498353B2 Ground contact device
A ground contact device having a module with at least a portion of the module's outer surface being curved. The ground contact device also having a planar surface, oriented in a plane parallel to a surface suitable for walking, on the module's inside surface. In addition, the planar surface contains a plurality of prosthetic mount holes.
US09498349B2 Expandable spinal implant with expansion wedge and anchor
An interbody spinal implant system includes an implant having separate, but joined top and bottom portions, a socket for receiving an expansion wedge, an expansion wedge, and an anchor pin. The anchor pin includes at least two prongs having a plurality of ridges or teeth. The top portion and the bottom portion each include a slot for receiving a prong of the anchor pin. A movable joint joins the top and bottom portions and allows the top and bottom portions to move vertically relative to each other.
US09498348B2 Minimally invasive spinal fusion system and method
Disclosed herein are minimally invasive systems and method for stabilizing the spine, while preserving a degree of spinal flexion and extension of the spine at the level of the stabilized vertebrae postoperatively. The systems and methods can include an expandable anchor and rod that span an intervertebral disc. The anchor can have interstices, and ends in two adjacent vertebral bodies. The system can also include a volume of bone cement media.
US09498347B2 Expandable interbody fusion device with nested correction surface
An expandable interbody fusion device includes a superior endplate and an inferior endplate. The superior endplate is designed and structured to be angled; the angled surface of the superior endplate becomes prominent upon expansion. The inferior endplate has a bounded cavity in which the superior endplate is fully nested in an unexpanded condition. In a fully expanded condition, the entire outer surface of the superior endplate moves out of the cavity and above an upper surface of the inferior endplate.
US09498346B2 Surgical implant for widening a vertebral canal
An implant is provided which allows for widening of the vertebral canal of vertebrae with less stress on the patient than in heretofore customary surgical procedures, wherein the vertebral arch of a vertebra is cut through, forming an incision gap, or is partially removed and the implant is inserted in the incision gap, wherein the incision gap is bounded by incision faces opposed to each other and the implant comprises an implant body having two contact faces which in the inserted state in the incision gap contact the incision faces of the vertebral arch.
US09498344B2 Modular reverse shoulder prostheses
A modular reverse shoulder prosthesis according to embodiments of the present invention includes a stem having a proximal taper and a primary stem axis, the proximal taper extending from the stem about a metaphyseal axis, the metaphyseal axis at an angle with respect to the primary stem axis, a metaphysis having a proximal end, a distal end, a first aperture in the distal end configured to be placed over the proximal taper, and a second aperture in the proximal end having an insert axis that is eccentrically offset from the metaphyseal axis, the metaphysis configured for attachment to the stem at any rotational position of the metaphysis about the metaphyseal axis, and a reverse insert, the reverse insert having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end comprises a concave cup formed about a cup axis and configured to receive a glenosphere.
US09498342B2 Knee prosthesis having commonly-sized patella components with varying thicknesses and peak surface diameters
An orthopaedic implant assembly includes a plurality of commonly-sized dome patella components. Each of the commonly-sized dome patella components may be provided in various thicknesses and/or peak surface diameters.
US09498340B2 Blade-like stem of a hip-joint prosthesis
A blade-like stem of a hip joint prosthesis for anchoring in the femur, including a portion comprising a prosthesis neck on the one hand and a femur-anchoring portion tapering towards a distal end on the other hand, the lateral narrow side of which comprises a distal straight portion and a proximal arcuate portion, the straight portion extending over a length of from 60% to 75% of the total length of the stem.
US09498339B2 Deforming implant-bone interface
A prosthesis can have a wall portion that deforms to conform to a surface. The deformation of the wall can be plastic (i.e. permanent) or elastic (i.e. able to return to the pre-deformed configuration). The surface can be an anatomical surface.
US09498332B2 Percutaneously-deliverable mechanical valve
Apparatus for regulating blood flow of a subject is provided, the apparatus comprising a prosthetic valve (20) that comprises a tubular element (22), shaped to define a lumen (23) therethrough, and a valve member (24), configured to be coupled to the tubular element (22) and to be disposed within the lumen (23). The prosthetic valve (20) has (1) a compressed configuration in which the lumen (23) has a compressed width, the valve member (24) is generally cylindrical, and the prosthetic valve (20) is configured to be percutaneously delivered into the subject, and (2) an expanded configuration in which the lumen (23) has an expanded width that is greater than the compressed width, and the valve member (24) is generally disc-shaped, is coupled to the tubular element (22), and is disposed within the lumen (23). Other embodiments are also described.
US09498327B1 Repair of tympanic membrane using human birth tissue material
A tympanic construct fabricated from at least one amniotic membrane, at least one chorionic membrane, or at least one amniotic membrane and at least one chorionic membrane obtained from human birth tissue is provided. Methods of preparing a tympanic construct, methods of repairing tympanic membrane defects and surgical sites, as well as kits for the same are also provided.
US09498322B2 Multi-portion endoluminal prosthesis
An endoluminal prosthesis for occluding a dissection of an aorta has a tube with a first portion and a second portion. The second portion of the tube comprises a bioaborbable material. The prosthesis also comprises a stent coupled to the tube. The prosthesis is configured for endoluminal placement in the aorta via an artery.
US09498321B2 Drug delivery device for peripheral artery disease
A medical device implantable within a peripheral vessel of the body composed of a bioresorbable polymer is disclosed. The device has a high resistance to fracture, is very flexible, and has a high crush recovery when subjected to crushing, axial, or torsional forces.
US09498320B2 Biomimetic vascular network and devices using the same
The invention provides method of fabricating a scaffold comprising a fluidic network, including the steps of: (a) generating an initial vascular layer for enclosing the chamber and providing fluid to the cells, the initial vascular layer having a network of channels for fluid; (b) translating the initial vascular layer into a model for fluid dynamics analysis; (c) analyzing the initial vascular layer based on desired parameters selected from the group consisting of a characteristic of a specific fluid, an input pressure, an output pressure, an overall flow rate and combinations thereof to determine sheer stress and velocity within the network of channels; (d) measuring the sheer stress and the velocity and comparing the obtained values to predetermined values; (e) determining if either of the shear stress or the velocity are greater than or less than the predetermined values, and (f) optionally modifying the initial vascular layer and repeating steps (b)-(e). The invention also provides compositions comprising a vascular layer for use in tissue lamina as well as a medical devices having a vascular layer and kits.
US09498319B2 Stent having removable anchoring element
A stent comprising a radially expandable elongate tubular support structure, the elongate tubular support structure comprising an inner surface and an outer surface and an anchoring element disposed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the tubular support structure, the anchoring element is separate and removable from the elongate tubular support structure.
US09498317B2 Prosthetic heart valve delivery systems and packaging
Packaging for dry prosthetic tissue heart valves and their delivery systems includes a primary sterile barrier that permits gas sterilization of the tissue implant, and a secondary sterile barrier that also prevents oxidation of the implant during long-term storage. Dry tissue heart valves and their delivery systems are placed within a primary container such as a rigid tray that limits movement of the components therein. The primary container is placed within a secondary container, and the assembly is then sterilized. The outer sterile barrier may include a double seal so that a first gas-permeable seal can be closed for sterilization, after which a second gas-impermeable seal can be closed to seal out any further oxygen contact with the tissue implant. A collapsible delivery handle for a surgical heart valve may be provided which reduces the size of the packaging.
US09498315B2 Sub-urethral sling delivery device
Technologies are generally provided for a trans-urethral sling delivery device for deploying a sub-urethral sling to support a urethra to treat urinary incontinence. The delivery device may include a conical-shaped cap attached to a distal end of the sling, the cap configured to puncture the urethra to provide access to an area surrounding the urethra. The sling may be wrapped in a reduced profile around a delivery tool having flexible spreading members extending away from each other at an end of the delivery tool. The spreading members may be inserted within the cap, and the device may be inserted through the urethra to deploy the sling. The delivery tool may be gradually removed from urethra, removing the spreading members from the cap, such that the spreading members may expand to spread the sling to a flattened configuration as the spreading members are moved along a length of the sling.
US09498312B2 Oral health care implement and system with proximity sensor
An oral health care implement and system are provided for use during oral health care activities. The oral health care implement has a proximity sensor, most often in the embodiment of a capacitive sensor. The proximity sensor provides usage time and instance measurements in a plurality of proposed formats. The oral health care system has an oral health care implement, a first data transfer medium, and any combination of: a second data transfer medium, a network storage device, and a third data transfer medium. The system provides means for collecting usage measurements and transmitting data into a readable, usable form for the user via an oral health care implement.
US09498310B2 Full denture base manufacturing method
A full denture base manufacturing method is provided that can easily manufacture a full denture base, using a set of maxillary impression tray and a mandibular impression tray for taking an impression from a patient including an edentulous patient.An impression material is applied on each of a maxillary impression tray 3 and a mandibular impression tray 4 configuring a set of impression trays, and respectively having a U-shaped groove, the U-shaped groove having a front surface side on which the impression material is to be applied and being provided with projecting parts 1 on a back surface side thereof, and the applied impression material is pressed against an alveolar ridge within an oral cavity and set, to determine bite position and height in a state in which at least a part of flat top surfaces of the projecting parts 1 contact each other, the second impression material is applied between back surfaces of the impression trays 3, 4 and set in a state in which at least a part of the flat top surfaces contact each other, each of the impression trays 3, 4 and the impression material are removed from within the oral cavity in one piece of the maxillary and mandibular impression trays, or separately in two pieces of the maxillary and mandibular impression trays, and a model material is thereafter injected to each impression material on the removed maxillary and mandibular impression trays and set, in order to manufacture an edentulous jaw model, and the edentulous jaw model is set on an articulator in a state in which the bite position and height that are determined in advance are reflected, in order to manufacture a full denture base.
US09498309B2 Mixer for mixing a dental composition
A mixer for mixing a dental composition comprises a mixer housing with a wall of the mixer housing forming a light filter. The light filter provides for substantially blocking light of certain wavelengths, whereas it transmits light of at least some other wavelengths. The invention may help to prevent dental compositions from degrading.
US09498307B2 Method of installing a final dental prosthesis
A cradle, assembly, system and method for installing a prosthesis at a surgical site. The cradle temporarily engages the prosthesis and holds it in the correct orientation and position adjacent the surgical site. An aperture is defined in the cradle and a portion of the prosthesis is received therein. In one embodiment, the cradle, assembly and system are used to install a final dental prosthesis in a patient's mouth in a single visit to the dentist's office. A securement member pins the surgical template and subsequently the cradle to the jaw. A sub-structure on the final dental prosthesis is received in the aperture in the cradle. Cylinders attached to implants anchored in the jaw extend through holes in the sub-structure and are bonded to the prosthesis. The cradle is detached from the jaw and from the prosthesis prior to screws being re-inserted through the cylinders and into the implants.
US09498306B2 Device for removable attachment of dental prosthesis
The present invention relates to a device for the attachment of dental prosthesis, consisting of a male component which can be anchored into a jaw and a removable attachable female component for receiving the artificial teeth. The device includes at least one spring element and at least one retention element. At least one spring element is a leaf spring element which is made of superelastic material and connected by one of its end to a removable female component or the installed male component of the dental prosthesis and has a convex part on its second end for tight friction contacting with the retention element of opposite component of the dental prosthesis.
US09498304B2 Orthodontic attachment module for intra-oral bite correctors
A module for attaching an orthodontic bite corrector to an orthodontic buccal tube appliance includes two segments, and each segment includes a rotation stop for limiting undesired rotational movement of bite corrector during movement of the patient's jaws. The segments are movable relative to each other during installation of the attachment module for facilitating placement of the rotation stops in regions next to the buccal tube appliance that might otherwise be difficult to access.
US09498301B2 Method for manufacturing transparent braces
The present invention relates, in general, to a method for manufacturing transparent braces. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing transparent braces in such a way that a plurality of dental molds are manufactured based on orthodontic dental data that is created on the basis of current dental data of a patient and instructions of a dentist and includes a plurality of orthodontic process steps, and then transparent substances are vacuum-pressed onto the respective dental molds.
US09498300B1 Communication system for surgical devices
A communication system includes an instrument connector with a light source and a connector antenna; and a console connector with a photo sensor and a console antenna. The light source is configured to produce light that is received by the photo sensor when the instrument connector is coupled to the console connector. The light source may also be configured to produce a series of light pulses, the series of light pulses identifying the surgical instrument coupled to the instrument connector. The light source may also be configured to produce light of a particular color, the color of the light identifying the surgical instrument coupled to the instrument connector. The light source may also be configured to produce a series of light pulses of a particular color, the series of light pulses and the color of the light identifying the surgical instrument coupled to the instrument connector.
US09498299B2 Precise placement device for precise insertion of insert
The precise placement device includes: a direction controller to which a placement unit having an insert and a drill is mounted, the direction controller controlling a direction of the placement unit; a precise transfer unit to which the direction controller is mounted, the precise transfer unit transferring the placement unit in the planar two-axis direction; a support table for fixing a target for insertion in which the insert is to be placed; and transfer units for transferring the precise transfer unit and the operating table.
US09498296B2 Atraumatic stents including radiopaque connectors and methods
The invention is directed to a stent including at least one member having a first portion and a second portion and at least one radiopaque connector joining the first portion to the second portion. In one or more embodiments, at least one radiopaque connector may form a first radiopaque pattern distinguishable from a second radiopaque pattern formed by at least one radiopaque marker. Methods for manufacturing a stent including at least two member portions connected by at least one radiopaque connector are also provided.
US09498294B2 Systems and methods for tagging and tracking surgical devices and surgical accessories using radio frequency identification tags
Various systems and methods are provided for tagging and tracking surgical devices using radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. In general, the systems and methods allow for tracking surgical devices throughout distribution and sterilization thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a tray configured to seat a plurality of surgical devices and having a parent RFID tag attached thereto that contains information and/or facilitates access to information about the tray and each of the surgical devices seated therein. Each of the surgical devices seated in the instrument tray can have attached thereto a child RFID tag containing information and/or facilitating access to information about the surgical device.
US09498288B2 Methods of conditioning sheet bioprosthetic tissue
Methods for the conditioning of bioprosthetic material employ bovine pericardial membrane. A laser directed at the fibrous surface of the membrane and moved relative thereto reduces the thickness of the membrane to a specific uniform thickness and smoothes the surface. The wavelength, power and pulse rate of the laser are selected which will smooth the fibrous surface as well as ablate the surface to the appropriate thickness. Alternatively, a dermatome is used to remove a layer of material from the fibrous surface of the membrane. Thinning may also employ compression. Stepwise compression with cross-linking to stabilize the membrane is used to avoid damaging the membrane through inelastic compression. Rather, the membrane is bound in the elastic compressed state through addition cross-linking. The foregoing several thinning techniques may be employed together to achieve strong thin membranes.
US09498287B2 Methods of conditioning sheet bioprosthetic tissue
Methods for the conditioning of bioprosthetic material employ bovine pericardial membrane. A laser directed at the fibrous surface of the membrane and moved relative thereto reduces the thickness of the membrane to a specific uniform thickness and smoothes the surface. The wavelength, power and pulse rate of the laser are selected which will smooth the fibrous surface as well as ablate the surface to the appropriate thickness. Alternatively, a dermatome is used to remove a layer of material from the fibrous surface of the membrane. Thinning may also employ compression. Stepwise compression with cross-linking to stabilize the membrane is used to avoid damaging the membrane through inelastic compression. Rather, the membrane is bound in the elastic compressed state through addition cross-linking. The foregoing several thinning techniques may be employed together to achieve strong thin membranes.
US09498282B2 Medical probe with echogenic and insulative properties
Tissue ablation probes and methods of using tissue ablation probes are provided. Each tissue ablation probe comprises an electrically conductive probe shaft, at least one tissue ablation electrode carried by a distal end of the probe shaft, and one or both of an insulative element and an echogenic element. The insulative element and/or the echogenic element may, e.g., be affixed to, or selectively removable from, the probe shaft to increase the insulative capability and echogenicity of the probe. An echogenic sheath having the insulative element and/or the echogenic element may be slidably disposed over the probe shaft to impart insulative and echogenic properties to the probe shaft.
US09498281B2 Surgical apparatus
A surgical apparatus is provided. The surgical apparatus includes a housing that supports a shaft assembly. The shaft assembly defines a longitudinal axis therethrough and includes coaxially aligned outer and inner shaft members. The inner shaft member is movable within the outer shaft member. An end effector includes a pair of jaw members disposed at a distal end of the outer shaft. At least one of the jaw members is pivotably coupled to the outer shaft and is movable between open and clamping configurations for grasping tissue. The inner shaft contacts a proximal end of the moveable jaw member to maintain the movable jaw member in the open configuration and is slidable against the movable jaw member to move the moveable jaw member between the open configuration and clamping configuration.
US09498278B2 Asymmetrical electrodes for bipolar vessel sealing
Bipolar electrosurgical instrument having a first and a second opposing jaw member at a distal end thereof, wherein each jaw member includes an outer housing, and an inner tissue engaging surface corresponding to the inner tissue engaging surface of the opposing jaw. The instruments includes the ability to move the jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue. The jaws include asymmetrical electrodes disposed on the inner tissue engaging surfaces. A first contact region of the electrode has a greater surface area than that of the second contact region. During resection procedures wider electrodes impart improved sealing energy to the patient-side vessel while providing sufficient energy to resected tissue to effect hemostasis.
US09498275B2 Systems and methods for arc detection and drag adjustment
Controlling a level of electrosurgical energy provided to tissue based on detected arcing patterns or impedance changes. The drag force imposed on an electrode or blade of an electrosurgical instrument may be controlled by adjusting the level of electrosurgical energy based on the arcing patterns or impedance changes. The arcing patterns or impedance changes may be detected by sensing and analyzing voltage and/or current waveforms of the electrosurgical energy The current and/or voltage waveform analysis may involve calculating impedance based on the voltage and current waveforms and calculating changes in impedance over time. The waveform analysis may involve detecting harmonic distortion using FFTs, DFTs, Goertzel filters, polyphase demodulation techniques, and/or bandpass filters. The waveform analysis may involve determining a normalized difference or the average phase difference between the voltage and current waveforms.
US09498272B2 Methods and instruments for subchondral treatment of joint defects near peripheral articular surface
Disclosed in some embodiments are instruments and associated methods for the subchondral treatment of defects near a peripheral articular surface of a joint.
US09498271B2 Coaxial needle cannula with distal spiral mixer and side ports for fluid injection
Disclosed is a multi-lumen mixing device that includes a first and second lumen constructed and arranged to separately pass a first and second reagent to a mixing chamber in the device, where the mixing chamber includes a mixing feature that mixes the first and second reagents. The disclosed multi-lumen mixing device may also include a port in fluid communication with the reaction mixing to permit the product of the combined reagents to be injected into a patent.
US09498267B2 Bone plate
The invention relates to a bone plate (1), comprising a bottom side (4) intended for lying against the bone, a top side (3) facing away from the bone, a plurality of holes that penetrate the plate, of which holes at least one hole is used to accommodate a bone screw that has or does not have a threaded screw head, wherein furthermore at least one of the holes has a spherical oblong-hole shape having a threaded section. According to the invention, the at least one oblong hole has a thread having at least one thread turn on the overall inner peripheral side, wherein the at least one thread turn is not interrupted in a first pitch circle region (A) and is interrupted by thread-free recesses (6) in a second pitch circle region (B) and furthermore the thread has a conical shape in the first pitch circle region and the thread extends from the plate bottom side to the spherical formation in the second pitch circle region, wherein the section of the spherical recess extending to the plate top side is likewise thread-free.
US09498266B2 Intramedullary implant, system, and method for inserting an implant into a bone
An intramedullary implant system, and method for placement within a bone system are provided by the invention. The implant includes a body with at least one pair of beams arranged about a longitudinal axis of the body. The beams are each fixed to the body and each have an end. The end of one of the beams of a pair is releasably coupled to the other beam of the pair by a k-wire from one end of which extends a flexible tail. The beams are each deflectable between (i) a coupled and biased position for insertion of the beams into a respective bone, and (ii) an uncoupled position for gripping bone. The beams of each pair in the uncoupled position being arranged so as to compressively engage the bone.
US09498264B2 Shape adaptable intramedullary fixation device
Implantable devices for fixation of curved bone such as the pelvic ring pubic symphysis and acetabulum, and methods for the use of the devices are disclosed. The implantable devices are convertible between a flexible state and a rigid state, and include an elongate structure having a proximal bone interface, a main body, and a distal bone interface. In a flexible state, the devices may be inserted along, and conform to a curved pathway, and in the rigid state, the devices may support the mechanical loads required to fixate a fracture.
US09498254B2 Bottom-loading bone anchor assemblies
Bone anchor assemblies are disclosed herein and include bone anchors, receiver members, and closure mechanisms. In one embodiment, a receiver member can be configured to seat a portion of a bone anchor and to receive a spinal fixation element, such as a rod. In an exemplary embodiment, the receiver member is bottom-loading and can include a seat having an opening that can be selectively increased and decreased in size so as to allow a bone anchor to be bottom-loaded. A force can be applied to the receiver member to increase a size of the opening, allowing a portion of the anchor to pass through the opening and into the seat. A closure element can be coupled to the receiver member and can apply a force to decrease a size of the seat and a size of the opening, angularly fixing the receiver member relative to the bone anchor.
US09498253B2 Polyaxial bone anchoring device
A polyaxial bone anchoring device is provided comprising a bone anchoring element having a shank to be anchored in a bone and a head; a receiving part coupled to the shank and configured to pivotably receive the head, and having a channel for receiving a rod and a longitudinal axis; a pressure member configured to be positioned in the receiving part; a locking member insertable into the channel; wherein the pressure member has a deformable portion; and wherein, when the locking member is advanced into the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis, the locking member in moveable from a position where it contacts the pressure member resulting in a load applied to the pressure member that clamps the head, to a position where the locking member contacts the pressure member such that the deformable portion is deformed and the locking member contacts the rod and clamps the rod.
US09498251B2 Embryo transfer
An embryo from a female animal is transferred to another animal by determining presence of an embryo in the uterus of a donor animal by ultra-sonic imaging and inserting an endoscope vaginally into the uterus to a location adjacent the embryo. A tool of the endoscope projects to a position to extract the embryo washed into a container of the tool which is then closed by moving a closure part to enclose the embryo and extracting the endoscope to remove the embryo for transfer to a recipient animal. The fluid into the container can be controlled in pressure to maintain a required pressure generally matching that inside the uterus.
US09498249B2 Expandable access systems and methods
Embodiments may include an expandable access system having contracted and expanded configurations. The system and methods may include an expandable access device having a helix or wrapped shape. Embodiments may include a cannula, stent, needle, trocar, introducer, fastener, and/or any other devices disclosed herein. Embodiments may also include an expandable trocar positionable in at least a portion of the access device. A sleeve or band may be disposed over at least a portion of the access device and configured to resist radial expansion of the access device. Expansion of the trocar and/or receipt of an object may radially expand the access device between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration.
US09498247B2 Atherectomy catheters and occlusion crossing devices
Atherectomy catheter devices having a C-shaped balloon opposite a cutting window out of which a rotating cutter may extend and a proximal annular balloon. The C-shaped first balloon may be used to drive the cutter against a vessel and to deploy the cutter by assisting in deflecting a nosecone (distal tip) to expose the distal-facing cutting edge of the cutter. The proximal annular balloon may be used to occlude blood flow. The device may pulled, pushed or rotated in a vessel with the balloons inflated or deflated.
US09498244B2 Medical systems and methods
Tissue is resected and extracted from an interior location in a patient's body using a probe or tool which both effects resection and causes vaporization of a liquid or other fluid to propel the resected tissue through an extraction lumen of the resecting device. Resection is achieved using an electrosurgical electrode assembly including a first electrode on a resecting member and a second electrode within a resection probe or tool. Over a first resecting portion, radio frequency current helps resect the tissue and over a second or over transition region, the RF current initiates vaporization of the fluid or other liquid to propel the tissue from the resection device. In one embodiment, an extending element extends from a housing and into a channel in a resecting member as the resecting member moves toward a distal position.
US09498243B2 Handpiece
A hand piece includes a main body, an impeller, an air supplier, an exhauster and an exhaust controller. The impeller is received by the main body and is rotated in the main body. The air supplier is disposed at the main body and supplies an air to the impeller. The exhauster is disposed at the main body and exhausts the air supplied to the impeller. The exhaust controller is inserted into the exhauster and controls the exhaust of the air based on an air pressure exhausted from the exhauster.
US09498239B2 Devices and methods for inserting a sinus dilator
Devices that are adapted to insert a sinus dilator into a stenotic opening of a paranasal sinus in a subject patient using minimally invasive insertion procedures are provided. The devices and methods can be used to treat sinusitis and other nasal and/or sinus disorders.
US09498238B2 Tissue resection snares
A tissue resection device for resecting tissue from a target site within a patient's body. The device includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. An actuation member extends partially through the shaft, and reciprocates within the shaft between a retracted position and an extended position. Multiple snare wires extend through the actuation member, and emerge outwards from a distal portion of the actuation member. The snare wires cooperate and join to form a snare loop, which engages the tissue intended to be resected. The snare loop is configured to enhance friction while engaging the tissue, to resect the tissue.
US09498222B2 Pivoting anvil for surgical circular stapler
A circular stapler apparatus for stapling tissue has a circular stapling head operable to drive staples toward an anvil to form the staples in a circular array. The anvil includes an anvil head, a proximal shaft extending proximally from the anvil head and having a proximal end disposed in a first plane, and a first pivot connecting the anvil head to the proximal shaft. The first pivot is operable to be disposed in a second plane that is laterally offset from the first plane. The anvil is configured to rotate via movement through multiple pivot points. The anvil may be configured to rotate to a position in which a portion of the anvil head is disposed below the first pivot and between the first pivot and the proximal shaft such that the anvil head is acutely angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the proximal shaft.
US09498221B2 Implantable medical devices having double walled microspheres
An implantable medical device including at least one double-walled microsphere containing an active agent, and a biodegradable polymer layer containing the at least one double-walled microsphere.
US09498218B2 System and method for attaching soft tissue to an implant comprising a nanotextured surface
One embodiment of the present invention is directed to compositions and methods for enhancing attachment of soft tissues to a metal prosthetic device. In one embodiment a construct is provided comprising a metal implant having a porous metal region, wherein the porous region exhibits a nano-textured surface, and a biocompatible polymer matrix coating the nano-textured surface. The polymer matrix coating comprises a naturally occurring extracellular matrix with biocompatible inorganic materials distributed within the matrix, or a biocompatible polymer and an osteo-inductive agent.
US09498216B2 Surgical instrument with actuator spring arm
A handle assembly for use with a surgical instrument having an operative distal end portion is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a housing, a drive element, an actuator, a spring arm, and a biasing element. The drive element is disposed at least partially within the housing and is longitudinally translatable with respect to the housing. The actuator is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the housing. The spring arm is disposed at least partially within the housing. The biasing element is for biasing the actuator. A first portion of the biasing element is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the actuator and a second portion of the biasing element is disposed in mechanical corporation with the spring arm. At least a partial actuation of the actuator distally translates the drive element from a proximal position where a portion of the drive element is in contact with the spring arm to a distal position where the drive element is not in contact with the spring arm.
US09498213B2 Pair of double staple pusher in triple row stapler
A staple cartridge includes outer and inner rows of retention slots that are adapted and configured to retain staples. The staple cartridge further includes a staple pusher including a plurality of pusher plates. A staple pusher includes pusher plates that are laterally spaced apart to engage staples within the outer rows of at least three rows of retention slots.
US09498212B2 Surgical stapling device with independent tip rotation
A surgical stapling device is disclosed which includes a handle assembly, an endoscopic body portion and a tool assembly. The tool assembly is rotatably and pivotally supported on a distal end of the endoscopic body portion. A tool assembly rotation mechanism is provided which includes a rotation knob, a substantially rigid tube and a flexible member interconnecting the rigid tube to the tool assembly. The substantially rigid tube translates rotation of the rotation knob to rotation of the flexible member and provides a channel for passage of other components of the surgical stapling device.
US09498205B2 Methods for employing elongated fixation elements
A fixation device, comprises an elongated element extending along a central axis, having a total length L and including a proximal section formed of a material that is substantially non-absorbent for electromagnetic radiation within a preselected wavelength range and a distal section formed of a material that is substantially non-absorbent for electromagnetic radiation within the preselected wavelength range in combination with a middle section axially arranged between the proximal and distal sections, the middle section formed of a material that is substantially absorbent for electromagnetic radiation in the preselected wavelength range.
US09498204B2 Method and apparatus for coupling anatomical features
A method of coupling a first portion of an anatomy to a second portion of the anatomy includes coupling first and second bones of the anatomy with a bone-tendon-bone implant. The bone-tendon-bone implant has a first bone end, a second bone end and a replacement tendon between the first and second bone ends. The first and second bone ends are positioned in corresponding first and second bores of the first and second bones. The first bone end is secured to the first bone with a first bone anchor. A second anchor coupled to the bone-tendon-bone implant is passed through and outside the second bore. The second anchor is coupled to an adjustable suture construct having two adjustable suture loops. Tensioning at least one of first and second ends of the adjustable suture construct tensions the replacement tendon and positions the first bone relative to the second bone.
US09498200B2 Method of retracting body tissue during surgery
A retractor for use in spinal surgery comprises a frame including a ring member defining a generally central interior space. A plurality of blades is releasably supported respectively to slidable arms each supported on the ring member for individual translational movement relative to the ring member. The blades define an initial substantially enclosed opening that is expandable for use in a surgical procedure. A clutch mechanism supported on the ring member is associated with each arm to individually selectively engage each such arm with a rotatable main gear such that upon rotation of the main gear by a single actuator any one, all or any desired combination of arms may be translated relative to the ring member to move the blades and expand the opening in one or more selected desired directions.
US09498198B2 Surgical instruments for accessing and stabilizing a localized portion of a beating heart
Surgical devices for stabilizing the heart are disclosed which facilitate anastomosis under beating heart conditions. Various instruments or devices may be maneuvered and secured on a retractor device to provide stabilization of the heart. An instrument mount is provided which is preferably configured to accept a surgical instrument, such as a tissue stabilizer, and to allow the instrument to be easily maneuvered to a desired position and subsequently locked into position with a simple operation of a single locking actuator. Further disclosed are stabilizer devices each having at least one surface for contacting the heart and each being adapted to be mounted to the retractor while having the ability to be positioned in the desired location against the heart.
US09498197B2 Surgical implant
A surgical implant (1) adapted for repairing a tissue or muscle wall defect comprises an outer section (8) and an inner section (6) located in the outer section (8), wherein the outer section (8) and the inner section (6) are formed from one double-sheet of a flexible basic structure, which preferably comprises a mesh. The implant can be strengthened by reinforcement elements (12).
US09498195B2 Implant with high vapor pressure medium
An implant for use in a human or animal body can include a flexible housing with an outer wall and having a chamber therein. The implant can have at least one high vapor pressure medium within the chamber. The at least one high vapor pressure medium can have a combined vapor pressure equal to or greater than about the average value of the hydrostatic pressure of the implantation site plus the skin tension of the housing minus the gas tension of the dissolved gasses present at the implantation site.
US09498186B2 Living body testing probe
A living body testing probe includes a living body contact part, a grip part, a non-mechanical switch part and a notification part. The living body contact part is configured and arranged to contact a living body. The non-mechanical switch part is configured and arranged to receive an operation input for changing test conditions upon being touched or approached. The notification part is configured and arranged to output information indicative of a change in the test conditions based on the operation input received by the non-mechanical switch part.
US09498185B2 Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and ultrasound diagnostic system
An ultrasound probe (3) of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus (1) includes an acceleration sensor (5) provided for outputting acceleration information for use in obtaining an angle of the ultrasound probe at the time of diagnosing a subject. The acceleration information is converted into angle information of the ultrasound probe by an angle conversion section (11). The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus (1) includes a monitor (4) for displaying a diagnosing image of the subject obtained with the ultrasound probe (3), and a body mark (16) corresponding to the diagnostic mode selected at the time of diagnosing and a probe icon (15) placed at an angle corresponding to the angle information with respect to the body mark (16) are displayed on the monitor (4). This makes it possible to provide an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus which can display an angle of the ultrasound probe at the time of diagnosing the subject.
US09498184B2 Breast ultrasound scanning device
An apparatus and a method are disclosed for obtaining ultrasound images of a patient's breast that is chestwardly compressed with a template that is essentially planar and rotates relative to the breast while one or more ultrasound transducers moving with the template take 2D images of the breast through one or more respective radially oriented slots in the template, preferably through a membrane that is porous to a gel. The 2D images are processed into slice images representing breast slices of desired thicknesses and orientation that are displayed alone or with some of the 2D images, preferably pairs of orthogonally disposed 2D images.
US09498179B1 Methods and systems for metal artifact reduction in spectral CT imaging
Various methods and systems for spectral computed tomography imaging are provided. In one embodiment, a method comprises acquiring a first projection dataset and a second projection dataset, detecting a location of metal in the first projection dataset, applying corrections to the first and second projection datasets based on the location of the metal, and displaying an image reconstructed from the corrected first and second projection datasets. In this way, metal artifacts may be substantially reduced in dual or multi-energy CT imaging.
US09498172B2 Control devices receiving users' commands and medical apparatuses including the same
A user control device may include a manipulation panel which receives an external force or input from a manipulating input or device, a frame that is spaced apart from the manipulation panel and having an accommodating unit accommodating the manipulation panel, and a sensing unit disposed in the accommodating unit to sense a movement of the manipulation panel. The manipulation panel may be three-dimensionally movable according to a movement of the manipulating input or device. Related medical apparatuses may also be controlled using the user control device.
US09498167B2 System and methods for treating patients using radiation
A radiation system includes a radiation source having an accelerator, the radiation source having a magnetic field associated therewith that is resulted from an operation of the accelerator, and a magnetic field source configured to provide a compensating magnetic field to at least partially counteract against the magnetic field that is resulted from the operation of the accelerator. A radiation system includes a radiation device having a radiation source, a patient support, and a protective guard located between the radiation source and the patient support, wherein the protective guard is moveably coupled to the radiation device or the patient support. A radiation system includes a particle generator for generating a particle, an accelerator for accelerating the particle, and a magnetic source for changing a trajectory of the particle, wherein the magnetic source comprises a permanent magnet.
US09498165B2 Receivers for analyzing and displaying sensor data
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for processing, transmitting and displaying data received from an analyte sensor, such as a glucose sensor. The system may include a display device with at least one input device. In response to movement of or along the input device, the display device may change a glucose data output parameter and update an output of the display device using the changed output parameter.
US09498164B2 Receivers for analyzing and displaying sensor data
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for processing, transmitting and displaying data received from an analyte sensor, such as a glucose sensor. The system may include a display device with at least one input device. In response to movement of or along the input device, the display device may change a glucose data output parameter and update an output of the display device using the changed output parameter.
US09498162B2 Identifying seizures using heart data from two or more windows
Methods and systems for characterizing a seizure event in a patient, including determining a time of beat sequence of the patient's heart, determining a first HR measure for a first window, determining a second HR measure for a second window, wherein at least a portion of the first window occurs after the second window, determining at least one HR parameter based upon said first HR measure and said second HR measure, identifying an onset of the seizure event in response to determining that at least one HR parameter crosses an onset threshold, identifying an end of the seizure event in response to determining that at least one HR parameter crosses an offset threshold.
US09498160B2 Method for penetrating tissue
A tissue penetrating system has a housing member. A plurality of penetrating members are positioned in the housing member. A tissue stabilizing member is coupled to the housing. A penetrating member sensor is coupled to the plurality of penetrating members. The penetrating member sensor is configured to provide information relative to a depth of penetration of a penetrating member through a skin surface.
US09498154B2 Measuring system capable of separating liquid and determining boundary of separated liquid
A boundary calculating unit is provided for determining boundaries between separated plasma and blood cell or air and plasma whose image is picked up by an image pickup unit. With such boundary calculating unit provided, the boundaries between the separated plasma and blood cell or air and plasma can be determined, and areas of the separated air, plasma, and blood cell can be determined accurately. Particularly, a straight line drawing unit is provided for drawing, on the image picked up, a plurality of straight lines parallel to grooves in a disk which performs plasma separation. The boundary calculating unit can easily determine the boundaries by determining the boundaries based on a profile of the plurality of straight lines drawn by the straight line drawing unit.
US09498149B2 Dynamic background correction in MPI
An apparatus for detecting magnetic particles in a field of view, which apparatus includes selection coils, drive coils, receiving coils configured to acquire detection signals, and a processor configured to control the coils and reconstruct an image of the field of view from the detection signals. The processor is further configured to: identify in the detection signals one or more background time periods at which no magnetic particles were present in the field of view, wherein signal time periods at which magnetic particles were present in the field of view are interspersed with at least one of said one or more background time periods; use the detection signals obtained at the background time periods to correct detection signals obtained at the signal time periods; and reconstruct the image from the corrected detection signals obtained at the signal time periods.
US09498147B2 Enhanced ECG chart presentation
A method, including collecting first data samples of electrical potentials produced by a heart at a sequence of sampling times, and collecting second data samples of ancillary data with respect to the heart at the sampling times. Based on the first and second data samples, a trace of the electrical potentials collected at the sampling times is presented, on a display, the trace having a pseudo-three-dimensional (3D) characteristic that varies responsively to the ancillary data collected at each of the sampling times.
US09498143B2 Methods, systems, and apparatus for identification and characterization of rotors associated with atrial fibrillation
A system can include a near-field instrument to be placed inside a chamber of a heart, a far-field instrument to be placed in a stable position in relation to the heart, and a control unit. The control unit is configured to identify a unique pattern in electrogram information received from the far-field instrument when the near-field instrument is in one or more positions within the heart. When the unique pattern is detected, the control unit is configured to receive electrogram information from the near-field instrument. While recording electrogram information from the near-field instrument, the control unit is also configured to record voltage and complex fractionated atrial electrogram (CFAE) characteristics of the tissue inside a heart chamber. This information combined with rotor information can be used to identify substrate versus non-substrate rotor characteristics.
US09498138B2 System and method for pain monitoring using a multidimensional analysis of physiological signals
The present invention is for a method and system for pain classification and monitoring optionally in a subject that is an awake, semi-awake or sedated.
US09498136B2 Classification of tumor tissue with a personalized threshold
The present invention deals with discrimination of malignant tissue from normal and benign tissue in a single patient on the basis of optical spectroscopic measurements. Starting from spectroscopic measurements in normal tissue, reference values are obtained for the normal class. With spectroscopic measurements in other tissues data points can be assigned to new class(es) when the spectral characteristics fall outside a threshold defining the reference class. Thresholds between different classes can also be defined. Finding (the transition to) malignant tissue is based on comparing the spectroscopic values to the classification threshold discriminating normal and benign versus malignant tissue. Thus, the basis of normal spectroscopic measurements is tuned to the individual patient characteristic. Discriminating the normal plus benign and malignant from that reference is more efficient compared to the reference of the all patient database.
US09498135B2 Microscopy imaging device with advanced imaging properties
Systems, methods and devices are implemented for microscope imaging solutions. One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed toward an epifluorescence microscope. The microscope includes an image capture circuit including an array of optical sensor. An optical arrangement is configured to direct excitation light of less than about 1 mW to a target object in a field of view of that is at least 0.5 mm2 and to direct epi-fluorescence emission caused by the excitation light to the array of optical sensors. The optical arrangement and array of optical sensors are each sufficiently close to the target object to provide at least 2.5 μm resolution for an image of the field of view.
US09498133B2 Optoacoustic-ultrasonic system for coregistered functional and morphological imaging of placentas
Provided herein are dual modality imaging systems and methods within displayed anatomical structures of placenta in real time. The imaging system comprises a dual modality laser optoacoustic and ultrasonic platform with a plurality of subsystems for delivering near infrared light, optoacoustic and ultrasonic pulses to the placenta and/or associated tissue and deep anatomic structures, for detecting ultrasonic pulses generated or reflected within the tissue using a multi-channel optoacoustic-ultrasound probe and associated transducers. The dual modality imaging system displays the results obtained as quantitative functional images of the parameters coregistered with anatomic tissue images. A multichannel electronic system comprising a computer tangibly storing software enables processor-executable instructions to calculate quantitative functional parameters of the placental blood within specific anatomical tissue structures and display quantitative functional optoacoustic images of the functional parameters within specific anatomical structures in the tissue that are visualized by ultrasound.
US09498130B2 Wireless device and system for monitoring physiologic parameters
A system for monitoring blood pressure and other physiologic parameters is provided. The system is designed such that it can be delivered to the patient with ease and minimal invasion. The system contains at least one self contained implantable sensing device consisting of a sensor, an electrical circuit for signal conditioning and magnetic telemetry, a biocompatible outer surface and seal, an anchoring method, and an external readout device. The implant is small in size so that it may be delivered to the desired location and implanted using a catheter, although direct surgical implantation is also possible. The circuit, sensor, and antenna for telemetry are packaged together and sealed hermetically to the biologic environment. The larger readout unit remains outside the body but proximal to the implant for minimizing communication distance.
US09498124B2 Blink detection system for electronic ophthalmic lens
An ophthalmic lens assembly comprising an electronic system with a controller configured to implement a blink detection algorithm is described herein. The electronic system can also include one or more power sources, circuitry, one or more sensors, clock generation circuitry, control algorithms, and lens driver circuitry. The algorithm can be used to sample, at a predetermined rate, light incident on an eye of an individual and at least temporarily save collected samples, determine when an eyelid is open or closed, determine a time period and pulse width of the blinks from the collected samples, calculate a number of blinks and the duration of the blinks in a given time period, and compare the number of blinks, the durations of the blinks in the given time period, and the time between blinks in the given time period to a stored set of samples to determine blinking patterns.
US09498120B2 Method and system for optical coherence elastography of posterior parts of the eye
A system and method for optical coherence elastography of tissue of an eye. The method includes introducing a probe into the eye, the probe including a vibration element, generating time resolved images of the tissue of the eye located posterior the vibration element of the probe by optical coherence tomography, exciting the vibration element to ultrasonic vibrations making the tissue vibrate or oscillate, measuring a displacement of the tissue in the time resolved images, and calculating elasticity values of the tissue from the displacement.
US09498119B2 Adaptive optics system and control method of the same, testing apparatus and control method of the same, information processing apparatus and control method of the same, and computer-readable storage medium
An adaptive optics system includes an irradiation unit adapted to irradiate an object with measurement light via a spatial light modulator; a detection unit adapted to detect a wavefront of return light from the object by a microlens array in which a plurality of microlenses are arranged; an acquisition unit adapted to acquire, based on the wavefront detected by the detection unit, correction data for correcting the wavefront by phase wrapping in the spatial light modulator; and a control unit adapted to perform control such that a wavefront discontinuous part formed by the phase wrapping determined by the correction data is held at not less than a predetermined distance from a center of each of the microlenses in the microlens array.
US09498118B2 Handheld vision tester and calibration thereof
In one aspect, there is provided a handheld vision tester. In this particular embodiment, the handheld vision tester comprises a display, cursor control, and an interface port. The display delivers vision tests to a user. The user interacts with the vision tests by using the display and cursor control. The interface port allows for communication of results of the vision tests from the handheld tester to external devices.
US09498117B2 Systems and methods for treatment deconvolution using dual scale kernels
Deconvolution systems and methods based on cornea smoothing can be used to obtain an ablation target or treatment shape that does not induce significant high order aberrations such as spherical aberration. Exemplary ablation targets or treatment shapes can provide a post-operative spherical aberration that is equal to or below a naturally occurring amount of spherical aberration.
US09498114B2 Systems and methods for determining biomechanical properties of the eye for applying treatment
A system for determining biomechanical properties of corneal tissue includes a light source configured to provide an incident light and a confocal microscopy system configured to scan the incident light across a plurality of cross-sections of corneal tissue. The incident light is reflected by the corneal tissue as scattered light. The system also includes a filter or attenuating device configured to block or attenuate the Rayleigh peak frequency of the scattered light, a spectrometer configured to receive the scattered light and process frequency characteristics of the received scattered light to determine a Brillouin frequency shift in response to the Rayleigh peak frequency being blocked or attenuated by the filter or attenuating device, and a processor configured to determine a three-dimensional profile of the corneal tissue according to the determined Brillouin frequency shift. The three-dimensional profile provides an indicator of one or more biomechanical properties of the corneal tissue.
US09498113B2 Diaphragm entry for posterior surgical access
Methods and devices described herein facilitate improved treatment of body organs.
US09498111B2 Otoscope with ejectable ear speculum
The otoscope includes a mounting device (14) in which an ear speculum (16) is releasably attached, the ear speculum (16) including a conically tapering cone portion (20). The ear speculum (16) includes a substantially cylindrical base portion (24) being coaxial to the cone portion (20) and having a diameter which is larger than the largest diameter of the cone portion (20) and being connected through an intermediate wall portion (22) to the cone portion (20). At least one cutout (40) extending to the free edge of the base portion (24) is formed in the base portion (24) of the ear speculum (16). A resilient snap hook (26) is arranged in the cutout (40), the resilient snap hook (26) comprising a connecting leg (60), one end of which is connected to the base portion (24) in the proximity of the free edge and which substantially extends in circumferential direction of the base portion (24), and a holding leg (64) extending from the other end of the connecting leg (60) in the direction of the intermediate wall portion (22), wherein the inner side of the snap hook (26) protrudes into the cylinder space of the base portion (24).
US09498108B1 Disposable sheath device
A disposable sheath device for use with an endoscope is disclosed. The endoscope has a body with an insertion tube having optics at its distal end. The disposable sheath device has a primary lumen and at least one secondary lumen attached to the primary lumen along a length of the lumen. The primary lumen is for covering and protecting the insertion tube from bodily contamination. The secondary lumen is for accommodating a desired tool. The secondary lumen has an insert substantially commensurate in length to the secondary lumen and has a slit longitudinally along its length. The slit permits radial expansion to accommodate tools having a radius larger than that of the secondary lumen, which preferably is made of a flexible material that expands. A connector is attached to the proximal end of the primary lumen and connects to the body of the endoscope. The connector extends longitudinally to accommodate different length insertion tubes. Optionally, an adapter can be used to attach the connector to the body of the endoscope. Varying the adapter permits the sheath device to be attached to various endoscope bodies.
US09498102B2 Dishwasher with tension adjustment system
A dishwasher in which a user conveniently adjusts tension of a spring according to various materials or weights of a cover coupled to a door. The dishwasher includes a housing, a door rotatably mounted to a front surface of the housing, door hinges mounted to both sides of a lower portion of the door and rotatably coupled to the housing, springs connected to the door hinges and arranged at both side portions inside the housing, a wire to connect the springs, a shaft configured to rotate and having one end portion exposed outside the housing, a first rotation member connected to the other end portion of the shaft and formed with a worm, and a second rotation member engaged with the worm and connected to the wire. Tension of the springs is simultaneously adjusted by changing a length of the wire by rotation of the shaft.
US09498100B2 Apparatus to retain a cleaning implement
An apparatus to retain an article includes a housing, a first jaw, a second opposed jaw, a pivoting ratchet arm, and a lever. The housing is adapted to receive a handle. The first jaw is adapted to pivot with respect to the housing. The pivoting ratchet arm is dimensioned to engage ratchet teeth of the first jaw when in an actuated position. The lever is connected to the ratchet arm and actuating the lever causes the ratchet arm to move into the actuated position to incrementally pivot the first jaw toward the second jaw.
US09498098B2 Toy item cleaning device
A toy item cleaning device includes a toy item container, an inlet pipe, a filtering member and a vacuum hose connector. The toy item container has a first side and a second side such that the first and second sides face each other. The inlet pipe is attached to the first side and the filtering member is directly or indirectly attached to the second side. The filtering member has a plurality of vent holes and the vacuum hose connector is attached to the second side. In addition, the vacuum hose connector is adapted to be detachably connected to a vacuum cleaner hose. The toy item cleaning device further includes a vacuum hose adapter which has concentric tubular sections each section of which is adapted to be connected to a specific size of the vacuum cleaner hose. The tubular sections may be telescopic and designed to slide into one another.
US09498096B1 Water-preserving urinal
A water-preserving urinal may include a cylinder body, a cylinder wall, an inner metal ring, an outer metal ring, a central plugin, and a separation cover. The cylinder body is a cylindrical structure, central of which has a drain hole which connects to a drain duct. A periphery of the cylinder body has four inward grooves evenly distributed thereon, and inside of cylinder body has four small notches which are evenly distributed. A support notch is disposed inside the cylinder body to support the cylinder body. The cylinder body is used to receive urine, and the urine can be drained out of cylinder body from the drain hole through the drain tube when the cylinder body is overflowed. The cylinder body is capacious and the notches of the cylinder body are made by biodegradable ABS materials, which can be cleaned easily by dry clothes or paper tissues.
US09498094B2 Container for a pack of wet wipes
A container for a pack of wet wipes (W), the pack having a stack of wet wipes and an aperture in the top surface through which the wet wipes are accessible for dispensing, The container comprising a housing (1, 2) to receive the pack of wet wipes, An opening (9) is formed in the top surface of the housing in line with the aperture in the pack. A door (11) is arranged to selectively close the opening and a sensor (20) is arranged to detect the presence of the hand in the vicinity of the door, A motor (13) receives a signal from the sensor indicating movement in the vicinity of the door and opens the door upon receipt of the signal.
US09498093B2 Soap holding bathing assistance device
A soap holding bathing assistance device for holds and dispenses soap from a container usable to scrub a person when bathing includes a container having a closed end and a peripheral wall extending from the closed end defining an interior space of the container. The container has an open end opposite the closed end wherein the container is configured for receiving soap into the interior space of the container. The container is constructed of an absorptive material wherein the container is configured for applying soap to a bather. An exterior surface of the container is abrasive wherein the container is configured for removing dead skin as the container is used to apply soap to the bather. A closure inhibits the soap from passing through the open end of the container.
US09498088B2 Shelf support structure
A shelf support structure for holding shower or bath accessories adapted to be suspended from the top edge of a shower or bathroom wall having a frame that comprises a pair of spaced-apart vertical legs which ascends up and hooks over and then back down forming an inverted U-shape. The frame is attached to a mounting bar designed to support the weight of the shelf support structure and contents. The mounting bar comprises a pair of slots on opposite ends designed to slip over and lock onto a plurality of securing means that are fastened to the drywall just above the top of the shower or bath wall, thereby preventing the shelf support structure from slipping off the top edge of the wall.
US09498086B2 Adjustable additive cartridge systems
An adjustable additive cartridge that provides adjustable metering of additive to a base fluid as the base fluid is flowing through the cartridge. A spout is mounted for limited rotation within a base element of the cartridge. Rotation of the spout results in varying degrees of flow of additive into a base fluid flow path through the cartridge. The cartridge may be used with a portable beverage container, such as a sports bottle or off-the-shelf water bottle. The supply of base fluid in a container used with the cartridge may be kept in an unmixed, pure state, and other cartridges, each having different additives (i.e., flavors) may be used interchangeably with the same base fluid supply. The cartridge allows a consumer/user to experience different additives, such as different flavors or supplement compositions, for a given supply of base liquid in a single container. A check valve on the cartridge prevents backflow of the base fluid. An integrated filter for filtering base fluid flowing into the cartridge may be provided. The additive cartridge may be sealed to provide for extended storage and to provide a user/consumer with evidence of integrity, quality and/or tampering prior to purchase and/or use. Visual and tactile indicators of the amount of additive being added to a base fluid may be provided. A container may retain a spare additive adjustable cartridge on the container.
US09498084B2 One-piece carbon steel cookware
Cookware formed from carbon steel having a handle comprising two tangs cut from a peripheral flange surrounding a formed body of the cookware, such as a fry pan, wherein end portions of the tangs are integral with the formed body, the tangs being bent to form the handle configuration.
US09498074B1 Pizza slice tray
A pizza slice tray made of paperboard with two inclining edges. Three scores are provided that extend between opposite ends and are creased to be folded. A central one of the scores separates the tray into symmetric halves. Each of the remaining two scores extend substantially parallel to respective ones of the inclining edges. A perforated line extends between the inclining edges to cross the three scores so as to separate from each other narrower and wider portions of the tray and enable folding at the perforated line so that the narrower portion lies under the wider portion.
US09498067B2 Seat device
A seat device is provided. The seat device has a foot part, an intermediate piece that is connected to the foot part, and a seat that is connected to the intermediate piece and is formed by two individual seat halves. The seat halves can be moved independently of each other. A coupling device is provided between the seat and the intermediate piece. The seat halves can be moved horizontally in a translatory manner by the coupling device.
US09498059B1 Universal rod and reel rack and carrier
A rack for storing and carrying at least one rod and reel, having at least two parallel side supports and a top crossbar and a bottom crossbar attached fixedly to the two parallel side supports, wherein the side supports have offsets which place the back surface of the bottom crossbar forward from about 0.25 to 2.0 inches from the front planar surface of the top crossbar; wherein the back planar surface of the bottom crossbar releasably engages with the handle of the rod and/or reel, and wherein the front planar surface of the top crossbar releasably engages with the rod.
US09498058B2 Closet storage assemblies, connectors, brackets and systems
Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of closet storage assemblies, connectors, brackets, and/or systems. In an exemplary embodiment, a closet storage assembly generally includes multiple horizontal shelves, vertical rods, and a horizontal rod. A T-connector is configured to be coupled between an end portion of a horizontal rod and a portion of one of the vertical rods. The T-connector includes a flexible tab to secure the horizontal rod. An elbow connector is configured to be coupled between another end portion of the horizontal rod and a portion of another vertical rod. The elbow connector includes a flexible tab to secure the horizontal rod. A bracket is configured to be coupled to a vertical rod at a top end. The bracket includes an opening configured to engage a wire hang rod and/or a pole hang rod, a living hinge, and a locking pin to secure the vertical rod.
US09498057B2 Product management display system with trackless pusher mechanism
A product management display system for merchandising product on a shelf includes using a trackless pusher mechanism that travels along a surface on which product is placed and one or more dividers for separating product into rows. The one or more dividers may be engaged to a front rail in two different conditions, locked and unlocked. In a locked condition, the relationship between the divider and the front rail resists alteration in any direction with respect to each other. In the unlocked condition, the dividers may be freely slid laterally along the front rail, while remaining perpendicular to the front rail. The one or more dividers may lock to the front rail through the use of corresponding teeth, resilient surfaces, a locking tab, a locking bar and/or a cam.
US09498056B1 Resting apparatus
A resting apparatus and system. The apparatus and system comprise two telescoping legs having two longitudinal rotatable leg anchors having frictional padding to prevent slipping. The telescoping legs are attached to a locking mechanism that uses a bracket having a clip that fits into various holes depending on the user's desired sleep angle. The bracket is integrally formed in the body of the substantially u-shaped pillow. The telescoping legs also have a height locking system primarily comprising of two separate channels, a first channel allowing for vertical movement and side channels used to lock in the desired height. The resting apparatus and system can be broken down such that the rotatable leg anchors form a handle for ease of use while traveling.
US09498052B2 Toothbrush
A brush, in particular toothbrush, comprises an upper part (1) and a lower part (2) which are interconnected by means of an articulation (3). A storage chamber (6) for a liquid or pasty medium, in particular toothpaste, is provided in the lower part (2) and a brush head (4) is disposed on the upper part (1). A channel (11) extends between the storage chamber (6) and the brush head (4), which channel is continuously always open from the storage chamber (6) to the brush head (4). The upper part (1) and the lower part (2) have flexurally rigid wall sections (16, 17) which are interconnected via the articulation (3). An elastic wall section (13) is disposed between the flexurally rigid wall sections (16, 17), which forms a wall section (13) of the storage chamber (6).
US09498051B1 Gingival stimulator and method of use
A gingival stimulator having optionally-angled bundled bristles anchored in at least one row in a brush head, and a narrow working footprint of collective bristle free tip ends having a maximum width dimension of approximately four millimeters. If splayed and/or flared, bristles have a preferred maximum free tip end density of approximately twelve bristles-per-square-millimeter. When moved into contact with teeth, the free tip ends easily navigate around them, promptly advancing to interproximal areas. The brush head is agitated with one or two hands and a quick vibratory motion when the free tip ends are in perpendicular contact with interdental papilla. Thus, gingival tissue becomes stimulated by the bristle free tip ends, dislodging food particles and bringing increased blood flow to it, keeping the gingival tissue in good health while avoiding the placement of adverse damaging forces against adjacent tooth structure during gingival stimulation, and preserving teeth from abrasion and notching.
US09498050B2 Paint brush
A paint brush has a handle, a bristle carrier plate fixed directly to the handle, and a plurality of bundles of bristles inserted into the bristle carrier plate through receiving openings.
US09498044B2 Cosmetic applicator
A cosmetic applicator includes a casing, a cartridge disposed in the casing, a sleeve coupled to the casing, and a core. The cartridge includes a tube member formed with at least one protrusion, and a plug member having a shoulder section abutting against the tube member, a rear end section abutting airtightly against the protrusion, and a front end section. The sleeve has a rear end portion sleeved on the front end section and abutting against the shoulder section of the plug member, and at least one protrusion abutting airtightly against the front end section. The core has an absorbing segment extending through the sleeve and the plug member for absorbing liquid cosmetic, and a liquid output segment extending out of the sleeve.
US09498042B2 Dispenser with spaced thermal member
A dispenser includes a housing having a reservoir for containing a product. An applicator tip is coupled to the housing and has an applicator and a product delivery passageway extending through the applicator tip and terminating at an opening in the applicator. A thermal storage mechanism is disposed on the applicator spaced from the opening in the applicator and provides an application surface for contacting a user.
US09498040B2 Hair dye applicator and methods of use
A hair dye applicator includes an applicator base having a comb and a dam configured to capture hair dye for dispensing during application, and including a handle having a first section extending from the applicator base and a second section extending from the first section at an angle relative to the first section. The dam may further include a carrier material configured to capture the hair dye, and the second section of the handle may be tapered. A method of applying hair dye using the hair dye applicator includes loading hair dye onto the applicator dam at the carrier material, and applying hair dye to the hairline by inserting the comb of the applicator at a start of the hairline and running the applicator starting at the comb in a direction away from the start of the hairline toward the remainder of the hair to receive the hair dye.
US09498039B2 Heating blower
A heating blower such as a hair dryer includes a generator and a controller both disposed in a housing in which a blowing path is formed. The generator includes at least one of an ion generator for generating an ion, an acid component generator for generating an acid component, and a charged particulate liquid for generating a charged particulate liquid. The controller controls an amount of the component generated by the generator. The controller further performs control such that the amount of the component decreases after a lapse of predetermined time or with a lapse of time from an operation start of the generator. The foregoing structure allows supplying hair with the component in an amount adequate to a dry state of the hair.
US09498038B2 Handbag protection device
In one embodiment, a handbag protection device includes a base region to facilitate the retention of shape of the protected handbag and one or more flap extension(s) to facilitate the separation of one or more cover(s), flap(s), or other enclosure(s) of the handbag from the body or one or more other part(s) or component(s) of the handbag. The handbag protection device may include one or more attached, unattached, detachable, or other operatively coupled support extension(s) that enclose(s), partially enclose(s), or wrap(s) around or cover(s) any chain(s), strap(s), handle(s), decoration(s) or other part(s) or component(s) of the handbag that can be used for carrying, hanging, ornamentation or other purposes.
US09498037B2 Key holder
A customizable key holder for retention of at least one key; the key holder comprising two separate outer sheathing plates which store the at least one key between them; one or more removable locking pins utilizing a locking mechanism to secure the at least one key between the outer sheathing plates; the key holder further including one or two interchangeable sheathing plate covers adapted for personalization of the key holder; at least one of the interchangeable sheathing plate covers providing storage space for an accessory element.
US09498036B1 Divider and kit
A carrying kit comprising a bag, a hot-cold pack and a divider configured for maintaining food at desired temperature during transport. The configurable flexible divider has at least one panel operative for creating insulated cells within a cavity of the bag, the cells isolating a plurality of items in the bag, one from the other. The cells can be maintained at different temperatures by hot-cold disposed within the panels of the divider. The divider further protects the items within the cell from crushing and from shock. In one example embodiment, the bag has an adjustable shelf splitting the cavity into upper and lower portions. The shelf attaches to the cavity by at least one flap that rises and lowers the shelf. The lower cavity portion is accessible through a horizontal opening.
US09498034B2 Case and mount system for handheld electronic device
A protective case and mounting system for a handheld electronic device is provided. The protective case can include a removable mounting system comprised of an interlocking member and a plurality of mounting bases. The protective case may further include a non-slip member to prevent the device from slipping on a surface and a magnet for attaching the device to a magnetic surface.
US09498028B2 Jewelry clasp
A clasp for use in making jewelry comprises an elongated hollow tube having an opening at least at one of its ends and an elongated, Z-shaped slot having a first section extending from the open end of the tube to a first intermediate location, a second section extending approximately circumferentially from the first intermediate location to a second intermediate location, and a third section extending from the second intermediate location to a third intermediate location. Flexible decorative strands of material, having enlarged ends larger than the slot, can be slid into the opening of the slot and into the third section, where they remain unless deliberate manipulations are undertaken to remove the strands.
US09498023B2 Footwear upper incorporating a knitted component with sock and tongue portions
An article of footwear may include a knitted component formed of unitary knit construction. The knitted component includes a sock portion and a tongue portion. The sock portion has a hollow structure (a) forming an ankle opening in a heel region of the footwear and (b) extending between the heel region and a forefoot region of the footwear to define a void within the footwear for receiving a foot. The tongue portion has an elongate configuration (a) extending through at least a portion of a length of a throat area of the upper and (b) including two knit layers that lay adjacent to each other.
US09498020B2 Cell flow device and method that provides a sequential linear flow of pressure resistance
Cell flow device and method provides a sequential linear flow of pressure resistance includes a family cell of two or more continuance cells. These continuance cells have the same or different size and shape. They also have different degrees of elastomeric capability and are in fluid connection with the advantage of a properly calibrated valve(s) and will transfer air, gas, liquid, or other substance or media, or mixture thereof by a sequential linear flow of pressure resistance from a reservoir or external source through different degrees of elastic potential energy, geometric advantages, or introduction of a force. Thereby, the family cell performs the predetermined function in any device that uses the technology for a wide array of uses for users and operators thereof.
US09498019B2 Impact absorbing shoe
Improved impact absorbing shoe constructions are provided which include a composite sole and an attached upper. The sole includes a section of artificial turf having a backing sheet, a plurality of artificial turf grass fibers secured to the backing sheet, and resilient elastomeric infill between the fibers. The resultant shoes provide a comfortable wearing experience while also giving adequate foot and ankle support.
US09498016B2 Lighting shoe
A lighting shoe includes a power generating device. When a user steps on or presses the lighting shoe, the power generating device bears an external force and generates an inducted current or charge by electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric characteristic to supply the LED to light. To be suitable for the thickness, the electrical requirement, or the cost of the lighting shoe, various similar power generating devices are disclosed to match the shoes in the present invention. The lighting shoe of the invention can increase the identification rate in the night, and improve the traffic safety of the user.
US09498015B2 Visor adapted for helmet or head engagement
A visor configured for engagement to a riding helmet for horseback riders in an as-used position. The visor has an extra long frontal bill which extends around the helmet to side portions. The bill protects the eyes and most of the rider's face from sun and the sides protect the ears and side of the face. An elastic band provides a biased engagement to a helmet and optional vent apertures and retainment clips are employable to hold the device to a helmet more securely in high wind.
US09498011B2 Intelligent adjustable mannequin
An intelligent adjustable mannequin having a body shape parameter input module and a mannequin backbone structure, the mannequin including an adjustment plate on the backbone structure according to body shape parameters, a curse adjustment mechanism positioned between the adjustment plate and the backbone structure, the backbone structure is also provided with a detector which detects the body shape parameters, and a relative movement between the adjustment plate and the backbone structure is controlled by the girth adjustment mechanism to achieve precise adjustment of body shape curse parameters. The backbone structure is further provided with a length adjustment mechanism to control upward and downward movements of respective parts of the backbone structure to achieve precise adjustment of length parameters.
US09498010B2 Apparatus for providing watertight protection to an appendage
An apparatus comprises an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion defines an upper edge region, while the lower portion defines a lower edge region. An upper adhesive band is disposed on the upper portion and runs alongside substantially the entire upper edge region. An upper release liner, in turn, is disposed on at least a portion of the upper adhesive band. At the same time, a lower adhesive band is disposed on the lower portion and runs alongside substantially the entire lower edge region. A lower release liner is disposed on at least a portion of the lower adhesive band. The lower portion is joined to the upper portion so as to define a hollow enclosure therebetween with the upper edge region and the lower edge region forming an open end in the hollow enclosure. The upper adhesive band and the lower adhesive band are disposed inside the hollow enclosure.
US09498009B2 Utility glove
A utility glove having a palm side including a three dimensional molded palm portion formed of an elastomeric material with a thumb portion and at least one finger portion and a back side of the glove comprising a fabric material, with the molded palm portion formed in a pre-curved configuration to create a concave shape. The molded palm has one or more of thickened areas for abrasion resistance, padded areas for comfort, flex grooves for improved movement, textured grip areas for improved grip and/or perforations for breathability. The molded palm portion may be formed of different elastomeric materials to take advantage of the different characteristics of the particular materials.A molded portion of the utility glove may be formed by placing a piece of fabric against a mold part formed in the shape of at least a portion of a hand, bringing a corresponding mold part having varying thicknesses into molding relation with the mold part in the shape of at least a portion of the hand and injecting an elastomeric material into the mold to form the molded portion.
US09498007B2 Child's outerwear garment
A child's outerwear garment is disclosed that facilitates quickly and properly putting a child into a child's safety car seat and fastening them therein with the seat's restraint system according to NHSTA recommendations. The outerwear garment also facilitates quickly and easily removing a child from the safety seat. The outerwear garment has a rear portion that is worn like a vest but does not cover the chest area of the child so that the belts of the safety seat may be properly positioned and adjusted on the front of a child in the seat without the presence of the front portion. A front portion of the garment is then attached to the rear portion and it helps retain the position of the belts of the safety seat and helps prevent a child from wiggling out of the belts.
US09498005B2 Pumping/nursing bra
An apparatus allowing a woman to pump milk from her breasts without the necessity of the woman's hands holding the breast pumps utilizes at least one band of material encircling the woman's chest, the band of material provided with two openings corresponding to the woman's breasts. A center panel would be provided to adjust the fit of the band. Additionally, in another embodiment, a back panel would be used in conjunction with the center panel to connect left and right panels together, the left and right panels including openings for a woman's breast. In all of the embodiments, semicircular pieces would cover each of the openings. In yet another embodiment, a removable piece is attached to the front of the apparatus, allowing the woman to wear the apparatus all day, even in public.
US09498001B2 Atomizing device of electronic cigarette
An atomizing device of an electronic cigarette is disclosed. The atomizing device comprises a liquid cup used for accommodating tobacco liquid, an outer tube wrapped outside the liquid cup and a heating atomizing component disposed at a bottom of the liquid cup. A bottom of the heating atomizing component is sealed by a liquid blocking plug. A top of the liquid cup is provided and disposed with a detachable top cover and a detachable sealing plug used to seal the top of the liquid cup. A liquid filling hole and an exhaust hole are respectively disposed and installed at the liquid cup. The atomizing device of an electronic cigarette of the present invention is able to avoid any difficulty of pouring tobacco liquid due to incapability of exhausting air resided in the liquid cup out, and to accelerate a pouring speed of tobacco liquid so that production efficiency is enhanced.
US09497997B2 Integral disposable electronic cigarette
An integral disposable electronic cigarette may include an integral hollow cigarette where combustion can be arranged at a cigarette end position, so that the electronic cigarette is more similar to a non electronic cigarette; a lateral intake structure between the battery and the atomization plant may be adopted, which prevents an air flow from affecting normal use of the battery; moreover, a three seal ring structures can be adopted, which greatly improves the safety and reliability of the electronic cigarette.
US09497995B2 Electronic cigarette
This application relates to an electronic cigarette, comprising a cigarette body, wherein, emitting materials which can emit light in the dark are configured on the cigarette body. The electronic cigarette of the application can fulfill users' need of a quick reach to the electronic cigarette in the dark, thus enormously increasing users' experience.
US09497993B2 Process for refilling an electronic cigarette
Process for refilling an electronic cigarette with refillable reservoir, implemented by means of a container (10) of a single dose of a concentrated aroma, in liquid state, for producing a liquid refill of said electronic cigarette, wherein said container (10) comprises at least a liquid reservoir (14) and a closed mouth (15), in liquid-tight communication with said reservoir (14), comprising the following steps: extracting said single dose of a concentrated aroma from said container (10), after opening said mouth (15); mixing said single dose of a concentrated aroma with a solvent medium, or diluent, obtaining a solution, or a heterogeneous compound, for producing at least one refill for said electronic cigarette; inserting, into the reservoir of said electronic cigarette, an amount of solution, or heterogeneous compound, corresponding to the amount required to produce this refill.
US09497992B2 Collapsible container
Articles of manufacture, products, and packaging methods are provided that include collapsible container. Collapsible containers provided herein can define an open interior space with a peripheral side wall having a top edge and a bottom edge and a bottom wall attached to the bottom edge of the side wall. The bottom wall can include a displaceable portion in an expanded configuration that extends below the bottom edge of the side wall and adapted to being displaced to a collapsed configuration that extends above the bottom edge of the side wall. Product constituents (e.g., pouches of smokeless tobacco) can be placed in a collapsible container provided herein while the collapsible container is in its expanded configuration. After installing a lid onto a collapsible container to enclose the product within the collapsible container, the container can be collapsed to its collapsed configuration.
US09497988B2 Rapid fluid cooling system and method for hot bulk liquids and container therefor
A system of rapidly cooling hot bulk liquids includes a chilling station having a reservoir for holding a cooling medium. The reservoir includes an outlet for removing excess of the cooling medium. A container bay disposed substantially above the reservoir is adapted to receive at least one container of hot bulk liquid to be cooled. At least one rotator is adapted to rotate the container placed in the container bay substantially around the container's longitudinal axis. A spray jet outlet is disposed substantially above the container bay and in fluid communication with the reservoir. The spray jet outlet is adapted to spray the container with the cooling medium while the roller is rotating the container. The container includes a void volume, preferably at least 5%. The rotator rotates the container at a rate that depends on the size of the container and/or the viscosity of the contents of the container.
US09497986B2 Method of improving solubility of zinc in zinc-containing still drinking water and shelf-stable zinc-containing still drinking water
The present invention relates to an efficient method of improving the solubility of zinc in zinc-containing still drinking water so as to extend its shelf life. This method comprises a carbonating step of said still drinking water with a low carbon dioxide concentration.
US09497985B2 Method for separating bone fragments and tallow from a single ingredient stream of beef by controlling the frozen condition of the beef and immersing in carbonic acid at elevated pressures
A method for the separation of fat from meat. The method includes providing individual pieces of meat containing lean and fat; subjecting the individual pieces of meat to cooling for a time sufficient to produce a difference in temperature between the fat and lean, wherein the fat is cooled such that the fat is friable and crumbles into finer particulates when subjected to a crushing force and the lean is cooled to a higher temperature than the fat and the lean is able to withstand a similar crushing force without substantially crumbling into smaller particulates; and with the fat and lean at the temperatures produced, subjecting the individual pieces of meat to a crushing force to separate particulates of fat from the individual pieces of meat.
US09497980B2 Reduction of non-starch polysaccharides and alpha-galactosides in soy flour by means of solid-state fermentation using cellulolytic bacteria isolated from different environments
The invention relates to a method for fermenting soy flour in the solid state in order to reduce non-starch polysaccharides and alpha-galactosides, said method comprising the following steps: a) preparation of the fermentation substrate; b) inoculation of the substrate with selected celluloytic bacterial strains; c) incubation; and, optionally, d) drying of the product, which generates a product with: an increase in protein of between 12 and 15% compared to non-fermented soy flour, degradation of the alpha-galactosides of more than 90% compared to non-fermented soy flour, a reduction in non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) of between 15 and 25%, an amino acid profile similar to that of non-fermented soy flour, and immune-stimulating effects.
US09497979B2 Multi-region chewing gum composition including isomalt gum region
The present invention relates to chewing or bubble gum compositions that include a first region composition and a second, or gum, region adjacent to or surrounding the first region. The first region composition may be a center-fill composition, such as a liquid-fill composition. The second region includes a polyol composition including isomalt alone or in combination with other polyols. The addition of isomalt to the second region provides stability to the chewing gum composition and reduces the problem of leaking and migration of the first region composition into the second region. The multi-region chewing gum composition also may include a coating region which surrounds or covers the second region.
US09497971B2 Non-volatile organic compound pesticide formulations
Water-based formulations (EW) are provided containing no VOC's or alternatively are low in VOC's for wide area space spray to control mosquitoes, flies, and other public health pests. Application via ULV, these formulations have been observed to provide significantly superior control of pests when compared to competitive adulticides. The present formulations provide exceptional preservation of both droplet density in the spray cloud and droplet size as measured by volume mean diameter (VmD). The present formulations provide superior bio-efficacy as measured by both mortality and knockdown of target organisms. The present formulations provide superior biological control, droplet density, and droplet size when applied at concentrations 20-80× less than competitive formulations.
US09497970B2 Pesticide compounds
The present invention relates to novel compounds of the formula I and the N-oxides, stereoisomers, tautomers and agriculturally or veterinarily acceptable salts thereof wherein C1 is C or CH; C2 is C or CH; A1 is N or C; A2 is N, C(R2), N(R3), O, S or C(R4,R5); and A3 is N, O, S, N(R6), C(R7) or C(R8,R9); where one or two non-adjacent bonds in the 5-membered ring formed by C1, C2, A1, A2 and A3 are double bonds, while the others are single bonds, provided that the bond between A1 and A2 or the bond between A1 and C1 or the bond between A2 and A3 or the bond between C1 and C2 or the bond between A3 and C2 is a double bond further provided that at least one of A1, A2 and A3 is N, N(R3) or N(R6), and where Ar, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9 and (R)k are as defined in the claims and in the description, which are useful for combating or controlling invertebrate pests, in particular arthropod pests and nematodes. The invention also relates to a method for controlling invertebrate pests by using these compounds and to plant propagation material and to an agricultural and a veterinary composition comprising said compounds.