| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09639071B2 |
Method and system for combustion mode transfer for a gas turbine engine
A method and system for transferring between combustion modes in a gas turbine engine is provided. A processor generates data representative of an initial set of splits for providing at least one of fuel and air to at least one combustor in the gas turbine engine. A gas turbine engine model module generates data representative of at least one engine operating condition. A first split calculation module generates data representative of at least one set of active control splits to control the engine in a first combustion mode, using as an input the initial split data. A second split calculation module generates data representative of at least one set of passive control splits to control the engine in at least a second combustion mode. Transfer between combustion modes may be accomplished via use of at least one of the active control splits and the passive control splits. |
| US09639070B2 |
Controlling a turbine with a recurrent neural network
A method for controlling a turbine is proposed, which is characterized at any point in the control by a hidden state. The dynamic behavior of the turbine is modeled with a recurrent neural network comprising a recurrent hidden layer. In this case, the recurrent hidden layer is formed from vectors of neurons, which describe the hidden state of the turbine at the time points of the regulation, wherein two vectors are chronologically linked for each time point with a first connection bridging a time and second connection bridging at least two points in time. Short-term effects can be controlled by means of the first connections and long-term effects can be adjusted by means of the second connections. Secondly, emissions and also occurring dynamics in the turbine can be minimized. Furthermore, a regulating device and a turbine with such a regulating device are proposed. |
| US09639061B2 |
Solar cell module, timepiece, and electronic device
A solar cell module includes a solar cell panel configured to have multiple pieces and a substrate that connects the multiple pieces to each other. The multiple pieces include a first piece and a second piece adjacent to the first piece. Opposing sides of the first piece and the second piece respectively have a mutually fittable shape. A length of the mutually fittable shape is longer than a distance of a straight line which connects both ends of the mutually fittable shape. |
| US09639059B2 |
Optical component and timepiece
An optical component includes a base material and a film containing silica particles and conductive transparent metal oxide particles. The conductive transparent metal oxide particles are preferably composed of SnO2. The number-based average particle diameter of the conductive transparent metal oxide particles is preferably 0.8 nm or more and 5.0 nm or less. When the content of the silica particles in the film is represented by Xs (vol %) and the content of the conductive transparent metal oxide particles in the film is represented by Xc (vol %), it is preferred to satisfy the following relationship: 0.003≦Xc/Xs≦0.12. |
| US09639058B1 |
Timepiece with movable case
A timepiece may include a movable case that may rotate approximately 180 degrees with respect to a first link and a second link. The case may include a first pair of tracks and a second pair of tracks that may be provided on opposite sides of the case. A first link and a second link may each slidably engage both the first pair of tracks and the second pair of tracks, so that the case may rotate 360 degrees about the first link and the second link. |
| US09639057B2 |
Wearable watch type mobile terminal
A watch type mobile terminal includes: a body having a power supply unit, a printed circuit board, and a display unit formed to implement a touch input thereon; a band unit formed to be wearable on a user's wrist by being connected to the body, and formed such that at least part thereof is wound or unwound in the body; and a length control unit configured to implement winding or unwinding of the band unit such that a length of the band unit is controllable in accordance with a user's wrist size. |
| US09639053B2 |
Image forming apparatus and cartridge group
In an image forming apparatus, when a line connecting a midpoint of a line segment connecting a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion and a rotational center of a first photosensitive drum as viewed from a first axial direction of the first photosensitive drum is referred to as a first straight line, and a line connecting a midpoint of a line segment connecting a third supporting portion and a fourth supporting portion and a rotational center of a second photosensitive drum as viewed from a second axial direction of the second photosensitive drum is referred to as a second straight line, the first straight line as viewed from the first axial direction and the second straight line as viewed from the second axial direction are not parallel to each other. |
| US09639047B2 |
Image forming apparatus, control method and non-transitory computer-readable medium
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming device for forming a pattern image having unit images on a photosensitive member, a sensor for irradiating the pattern image with light and detecting reflected light, and a controller for controlling the image forming device to form a pattern image for printing used when printing and a pattern image for detection to be detected by the sensor on the photosensitive member. A first pattern image for printing includes a predetermined number of first unit images arranged to be spaced from each other, each of the first unit images being smaller than a predetermined size. A first pattern image for detection corresponding to the first pattern image for printing includes more than the predetermined number of the first unit images arranged to be spaced from each other. |
| US09639045B2 |
Image forming apparatus that shifts to state where quick activation is possible, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
An image forming apparatus capable of shifting to a state where quick activation thereof can be performed in a shorter time period when a power switch is turned off. When the off operation of the power switch is detected, a first state is stored, and when the on operation of the power switch is detected next, the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted to a second state from which the image forming apparatus can return to the first state. When the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted to the second state, time starts to be measured. When the on operation of the power switch is detected in the second state, the value of the measured time is acquired. The image forming apparatus is caused to return to the stored first state depending on the value of the measured time. |
| US09639043B1 |
Heater and fixing device
According to one embodiment, a heater includes an elongated substrate; a conductor that is provided on the substrate along a longitudinal direction of the substrate; and a plurality of resistance heating elements which are respectively disposed on the substrate along the longitudinal direction of the substrate, are electrically connected to each other in series by the conductor, and of which each resistance temperature coefficient becomes smaller as the resistance heating elements approach end regions in the longitudinal direction of the substrate. |
| US09639032B2 |
Image forming apparatus that utilizes an adjustable alternately switching voltage
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearer, a transfer device, and a transfer bias power source. The transfer bias power source is configured to output an alternately switching voltage that alternates between a transfer-directional voltage having a polarity to transfer the toner image from the image bearer onto the recording medium and a return-directional voltage having an opposite polarity to the polarity of the transfer-directional voltage. The transfer bias power source is configured to reduce a target value of Vdc as an image area ratio of a toner image to be printed increases, and to increase the target value of Vdc as the image area ratio reduces, where Vdc is an average value of the alternately switching voltage during printing. |
| US09639031B1 |
Controlled transfer nip for an electrophotographic device and method of using same
An imaging apparatus, including a transfer roll; and first and second rolls, each first roll and second roll being disposed relative to the transfer roll, the second roll forming a transfer nip with the transfer roll and the first roll being disposed upstream relative to the second roll in a media feed direction. During a toner transfer operation, the transfer roll is coupled to a predetermined voltage and the first and second rolls are coupled to at least one voltage reference so that an electric field is generated between the transfer roll and the first roll and between the transfer roll and the second roll, the first roll being associated with an electrical characteristic such that the electric field generated between the transfer roll and the first roll is limited during the toner transfer operation relative to the electric field generated between the transfer roll and the second roll. |
| US09639030B2 |
Image forming apparatus for applying a lubricant to an image-bearing member
An image forming apparatus includes an image-bearing member bearing a toner image, a transfer unit transferring the toner image on the image-bearing member to a printing medium, a cleaning member rubbing against the image-bearing member and scraping away transfer residual toner from the image-bearing member, and a lubricant applying unit applying a lubricant to the image-bearing member. The apparatus further includes a driving unit driving the lubricant applying unit and a controller controlling the driving unit such that when a period required for an area corresponding to an interval between printing media to pass through a transfer position is longer than or equal to a predetermined set period during image formation, the amount of lubricant applied by the lubricant applying unit is at least lower than that in a case where the period required is shorter than the predetermined set period. |
| US09639028B2 |
Image forming apparatus and container for developer
A container for developer detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus body includes a container body, a discharge member, a resistive member, and a resistance reduction mechanism. The container body contains developer and is rotated when drive is transmitted from the image forming apparatus body. The discharge member supports the container body rotatable relative to the discharge member and has a discharge port through which the developer is discharged. The resistive member is brought into contact with the container body so as to apply resistance to the rotation of the container body. The resistance reduction mechanism changes a contact state between the resistive member and the container body so as to reduce the resistance between the resistive member and the container body when the container is mounted to the image forming apparatus body. |
| US09639027B2 |
Toner cartridge
The present invention relates a toner cartridge used for a laser printer. The toner cartridge comprises: a toner tank for storing fresh toner and a waste toner tank for storing waste toner obtained after development. When the toner cartridge is installed in a laser printer, the toner tank has a toner supplying section at a lower portion in a vertical direction thereof for supplying toner to an external environment. Two inner surfaces of the toner tank, arranged in a transverse direction of the toner tank and parallel with a direction in which the toner cartridge is installed into the laser printer, keep in a plane state at positions higher than the toner supplying section and are parallel with the vertical direction. |
| US09639011B2 |
Colorless digital primer for digital printing
A colorless digital primer for digital printing includes a colorless paste. The colorless paste includes a non-polar carrier fluid, and a resin swollen in the non-polar carrier fluid. The resin is present in the paste in an amount ranging from about 20% (w/w) to about 50% (w/w). A solid polar compound is dispersed in the resin. The solid polar compound is selected from the group consisting of a cellulose microcrystalline powder, dextrin, maltose monohydrate, polyacrylic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, a styrene maleic anhydride copolymer, a bismaleimide oligomer, sucrose, sucrose octaacetate, sucrose benzoate, and combinations thereof. The solid polar compound is present in an amount up to 60 wt. % of solids in the colorless paste. |
| US09639010B2 |
Electrophotographic photoreceptor, manufacturing method of electrophotographic photoreceptor, image-forming apparatus and image-forming method
Disclosed is an electrophotographic photoreceptor including a conductive support, a photosensitive layer on the conductive support and a surface layer on the photosensitive layer. The surface layer includes a cured resin prepared by polymerization of a compound having two or more radically polymerizable functional groups per molecule, the cured resin containing an organic resin fine particle and a metal oxide fine particle, and the organic resin fine particle comprising a resin containing a structural unit derived from at least one of melamine and benzoguanamine, the organic resin fine particle having a number average primary particle size of 0.01 to 3.00 μm. |
| US09639009B2 |
Electrophotographic member, process cartridge, and electrophotographic apparatus
The present invention provides a highly electro-conductive electrophotographic member which contributes to formation of high-quality electrophotographic images while bleeding out of an ion conducting agent is reduced, a process cartridge, and an electrophotographic apparatus. Accordingly, the electrophotographic member according to the present invention includes an electro-conductive mandrel and an electro-conductive layer, wherein the electro-conductive layer contains a resin synthesized from a nitrogen-containing aromatic heterocyclic cation and a compound being able to react with the nitrogen-containing aromatic heterocyclic cation, and an anion; the nitrogen-containing aromatic heterocyclic cation has two substituents bonded to hydroxyl groups; and the substituent bonded to the hydroxyl group is bonded to a nitrogen atom of a nitrogen-containing aromatic heterocycle of the nitrogen-containing aromatic heterocyclic cation. |
| US09639008B2 |
Lithography apparatus, and article manufacturing method
A lithography apparatus includes a measuring station that includes a first measuring device configured to measure a height of a substrate holder, and a second measuring device configured to measure a height of a surface of a substrate held by the holder, and a patterning station that includes a third measuring device configured to measure a height of the holder, and patterns the substrate held by the holder based on an output of the second measuring device. The patterning station includes a fourth measuring device configured to measure a height of a surface of a substrate held by the holder. The lithography apparatus includes a controller configured to obtain a correction value for an output obtained from at least one of the first and third measuring devices based on outputs of the second and fourth measuring devices with respect to a substrate held by the holder. |
| US09639007B2 |
Optical arrangement in an optical system, in particular in a microlithographic projection exposure apparatus
An optical arrangement in an optical system, such as a microlithographic projection exposure apparatus, includes: at least one heat-emitting subsystem which emits heat during the operation of the optical system; a first heat shield which is arranged such that it at least partly absorbs the heat emitted by the heat-emitting subsystem; a first cooling device which is in mechanical contact with the first heat shield and is designed to dissipate heat from the first heat shield; and a second heat shield which at least partly absorbs heat emitted by the first heat shield. The second heat shield is in mechanical contact with a cooling device that dissipates heat from the second heat shield. |
| US09639006B2 |
Lithographic projection apparatus and device manufacturing method
A lithographic projection apparatus is disclosed where at least part of a space between a projection system of the apparatus and a substrate is filled with a liquid by a liquid supply system. The projection system is separated into two separate physical parts. With substantially no direct connection between the two parts of the projection system, vibrations induced in a first of the two parts by coupling of forces through the liquid filling the space when the substrate moves relative to the liquid supply system affects substantially only the first part of the projection system and not the other second part. |
| US09639003B2 |
Programmable imaging assembly for manufacturing biotest post arrays
An imaging assembly for directing a pattern of energy at a workpiece includes (i) a reticle that defines a reticle array that includes a plurality of spaced apart, transmitting regions; (ii) an illumination source that generates an illumination beam; and (iii) a director assembly that selectively directs the illumination beam at the reticle array, the director assembly includes a plurality of director elements that are individually controlled to selectively control the beam pattern that is directed at the reticle array. |
| US09639002B2 |
Method of forming resist pattern
A method of forming a resist pattern including forming a resist film on a substrate using a resist composition which generates acid upon exposure and exhibits changed solubility in a developing solution under action of the acid; exposing the resist film; and patterning the exposed resist film by negative-tone development using a developing solution containing an organic solvent, to form a resist pattern. The resist composition includes a polymeric compound having at least two kinds of specific structural units. |
| US09638999B2 |
Dual-layer light-sensitive developer-soluble bottom anti-reflective coatings for 193-nm lithography
The present invention provides methods of fabricating microelectronics structures and the resulting structures formed thereby using a dual-layer, light-sensitive, wet-developable bottom anti-reflective coating stack to reduce reflectance from the substrate during exposure. The invention provides dye-filled and dye-attached compositions for use in the anti-reflective coatings. The anti-reflective coatings are thermally crosslinkable and photochemically decrosslinkable. The bottom anti-reflective coating stack has gradient optical properties and develops at the same time as the photoresist. The method and structure are particularly suited to high-NA lithography processes. |
| US09638996B2 |
Resist composition and method for producing resist pattern
A resist composition has a resin which includes a structural unit having an acid-labile group, an acid generator, and a non-ionic compound having a group represented by the formula (a) and having no unsaturated bond: wherein Xa and Xb each independently represent an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom, X1 represents a divalent C1 to C12 saturated hydrocarbon group having a fluorine atom or a C1 to C6 fluorinated alkyl group, and * represents a binding site. |
| US09638992B2 |
Illumination optical system and image projection apparatus
The illumination optical system includes a first optical system configured to shape a light flux from a light source such that a light flux cross-sectional shape of the light flux becomes close to a rectangular shape of an illumination surface, a second optical system having an optical axis tilted with respect to a normal to the illumination surface and configured to introduce the light flux from the first optical system to the illumination surface, and a light-transmissive element having an entrance surface and an exit surface respectively forming mutually different angles with respect to the optical axis of the second optical system in a plane including the optical axis of the second optical system and the normal to the illumination surface. The light-transmissive element is disposed between the first optical system and the illumination surface. |
| US09638990B2 |
Projector device with luminous tube having a pair of electrodes in a vertical direction
A projector device of the present disclosure includes a luminous tube made of quartz glass, a concave reflecting mirror in which the luminous tube is disposed, and an optical unit for projecting an image by utilizing light emitted from the concave reflecting mirror. The luminous tube has a luminous part, in which at least mercury is enclosed inside and a pair of electrodes is disposed so as to face each other, and a pair of sealing parts extending from the luminous part in opposite directions to each other. The luminous tube is disposed so as to direct the pair of electrodes in a vertical direction. A region of the image projected from the optical unit is a horizontally long rectangle. |
| US09638988B2 |
Light multiplexer with color combining element
A light multiplexing system includes a color combining element and first, second, and third color channels. Each color channel includes a light source that directs light of a corresponding first, second, or third wavelength band, respectively, toward the color combining element. The color combining element includes first and second windows. The first and second windows are made of a solid transparent material and include, collectively, three coated surfaces. The surfaces may be non-contiguous. A first coated surface receives light of the first, second and third wavelength bands. The first coated surface reflects the light of the first wavelength band and transmits the light of the second and third wavelength bands. A second coated surface receives light of the second and third wavelength bands transmitted by the first coated surface. The second coated surface reflects the light of second wavelength band and transmits the light of the third wavelength band. The third coated surface receives the light of the third wavelength band transmitted by the second coated surface and reflects it. The reflected first, second, and third wavelength bands exit the first surface of the color combining element as a coaxial beam. |
| US09638987B2 |
Camera and camera accessory
The camera side mount is brought, by relative rotation with the accessory side mount, from a first state where each accessory side bayonet claw is inserted between the camera side bayonet claws into a second state where the camera side and accessory side bayonet claws engage with each other. The leaf spring biasing the camera side contact pins in the protruding direction is disposed between the camera side mount and the camera body. When the camera being in the normal position is viewed from the direction facing the camera side mount, the leaf spring extends from both sides of the mount center line, which extends from the center of the camera side mount in the direction of gravity, toward the camera side contact pins. The camera side contact pins are arranged at positions other than a position on the mount center line. |
| US09638985B1 |
Adjusting device of focusing curve of camera lens motor and method
An adjusting method and device of focusing curve of camera lens is disclosed. Steps of the adjusting method of focusing curve of camera lens includes: determining an adjustable moving range; moving the camera lens in the area of adjustable moving range, and recording a high definition of the camera lens; computing a difference value of a initial position of the camera lens and the high definition of the camera lens, and computing a focus offset; adjusting the focusing curve according to the focusing curve. Therefore, the angle of the camera lens motor can be adjusted accurately. |
| US09638983B2 |
Photographing device and focus adjusting seat thereof having at least one guide groove movably assembled with at least one guide bar
A focus adjusting seat includes a base seat, at least one guide bar, a driving device and an image sensor adjusting seat. The base seat includes a bottom plate and a front plate connected to the bottom plate and having a lens installation hole. Two ends of the at least one guide bar are disposed on the bottom plate, respectively. The driving device is disposed on the bottom plate and has an output screw. The image sensor adjusting seat includes a bottom seat and an image sensor installation part connected to the bottom seat and facing toward the lens installation hole. The bottom seat has a screwed part screwed to the output screw and at least one guide groove movably assembled with at least one guide bar. The driving device is adapted to adjust a relative position between the image sensor adjusting seat and the lens installation hole. |
| US09638981B2 |
Optical switch with improved switching efficiency
An optical device comprises a first optical coupler configured to receive a light signal and provide a first output and a second output, a first optical waveguide in optical communication with the first output and configured to provide a first optical path for a first portion of the light signal, and a second optical waveguide in optical communication with the second output and configured to provide a second optical path for a second portion of the light signal, wherein the first optical waveguide is configured to provide a phase differential between the first optical path and the second optical path, wherein the second optical waveguide is positioned according to a lateral thermal diffusion length associated with the first optical waveguide, and wherein the lateral thermal diffusion length is a spreading distance of a thermal effect in a direction about perpendicular to the first optical path. |
| US09638980B2 |
Modulator and production method thereof
A modulator including: a Mach-Zehnder modulator that includes an optical waveguide disposed on a substrate, the optical waveguide including an electrode thereon; a resin layer disposed on the substrate, the resin layer embedding the optical waveguide, the resin layer having a groove arranged besides the optical waveguide; a termination resistor disposed on the substrate in the groove of the resin layer; and a first wiring disposed on the resin layer, the first wiring being connected to the termination resistor and the electrode of the optical waveguide. |
| US09638978B2 |
Control method for tintable windows
A method of controlling tint of a tintable window to account for occupant comfort in a room of a building. The tintable window is between the interior and exterior of the building. The method predicts a tint level for the tintable window at a future time based on a penetration depth of direct sunlight through the tintable window into the room at the future time and space type in the room. The method also provides instructions over a network to transition tint of the tintable window to the tint level. |
| US09638972B2 |
Array substrate, manufacturing method thereof and display panel
An array substrate, a manufacturing method thereof and a display panel are disclosed. The array substrate includes: a base substrate, gate scanning lines, a gate-insulating layer, an active layer, data lines, a passivation layer, and pixel electrodes; the array substrate further includes: a bridge structure and a connection line corresponding to each data line; the bridge structure is located on the passivation layer and is provided in a same layer as the pixel electrodes; each connection line is located on the base substrate and is connected with the data line, through the bridge structure in an LED region and in a region under a scribe line of a counter substrate. Therefore the problem of defective display caused by breakage of data lines can be solved, and the display effect of a liquid crystal display device can be improved. |
| US09638971B2 |
Liquid crystal display device having asymmetrical through hole
To provide a liquid crystal display device capable of controlling deterioration of contrast even in the case where an opening is formed in an organic flattened film and the film has unevenness. In the liquid crystal display device that includes a TFT substrate, a CF substrate, and liquid crystal sandwiched between the TFT substrate and the CF substrate and that drives the liquid crystal with a lateral electric field, the TFT substrate has the organic flattened film in which a through hole for contacting a source electrode of the TFT and a pixel electrode and a sectional shape of the through hole is asymmetrical between a side on which the pixel electrode extends and the other side. |
| US09638970B2 |
Liquid crystal display and method of manufacturing the same
A liquid crystal display includes: a substrate including a display region and a non-display region, the non-display region including a first region adjacent to the display region and a second region further from the display region than the first region; a light blocking member disposed in the non-display region of the substrate; and a plurality of step providing layers disposed between the substrate and the light blocking member in the non-display region of the substrate, the step providing layers spaced apart from each other. A height of the light blocking member disposed in the first region of the non-display region is different from a height of the light blocking member disposed in the second region of the non-display region. |
| US09638969B2 |
Liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, manufacturing method thereof and display device
A liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a manufacturing method thereof and a display device are provided. The LCD panel includes an array substrate and a color filter substrate which are cell-assembled. Liquid crystals are filled between the array substrate and the color filter substrate. A sealant is disposed between peripheral areas of the array substrate and the color filter color filter substrate to seal the array substrate and the color filter substrate, wherein an electrostatic protection layer is also disposed at the peripheral area of the array substrate and configured to cover a peripheral circuit at the peripheral area of the array substrate to provide electrostatic protection for the peripheral circuit. |
| US09638962B2 |
Liquid crystal panel and manufacture method thereof
The present invention provides a liquid crystal panel and a manufacture method thereof. The liquid crystal panel comprises: a first substrate (1), a TFT layer (2) located on the first substrate (1), a color resist layer (3) located on the TFT layer (2), a photospacer layer (4) located on the color resist layer (3), a protective layer (5) located on the color resist layer (3) and the photospacer layer (4), a via hole (6) penetrating the color resist layer (3) and the protective layer (5), a pixel electrode layer (7) formed on the protective layer (5) and electrically connected to the TFT layer (2) with the via hole (6) and a second substrate (8) oppositely located to the first substrate (1), and one or more color resist material in the photospacer layer (4) and the color resist layer (3) are the same, and the photospacer layer (4) and the color resist layer (3) are formed at the same time during a manufacture process. |
| US09638957B2 |
Liquid crystal display provided with viewing angle compensation
An embodiment of present invention discloses a liquid crystal display provided with viewing angle compensation. The liquid crystal display provided with viewing angle compensation comprises a liquid crystal cell in a vertical arrangement, upper and lower polarizer sheets, and further comprises the first biaxial compensation film provided between the liquid crystal cell and the lower polarizer sheet, the second biaxial compensation film provided between the liquid crystal cell and the upper polarizer sheet, and a monoaxial compensation film provided at the upside and/or downside of the liquid crystal cell. The embodiment of present invention may be applicable for the viewing angle compensation in wide viewing-angle techniques. |
| US09638954B2 |
Display apparatus and backlight
A first LED substrate and a second LED substrate are included each of which includes: on a main surface thereof, a plurality of LEDs connected in series in a longitudinal direction; a first connector including (i) a first terminal disposed on one of short sides of the LED substrate and connected to an anode of an LED positioned first among the LEDs connected in series, and (ii) a second terminal connected to a cathode of another LED positioned last among the LEDs connected in series. The second terminal of the first LED substrate and the first terminal of the second LED substrate are interconnected. The first terminal of the first LED substrate is connected to a positive terminal of a power circuit and the second terminal of the second LED substrate is connected to a negative terminal of the power circuit. |
| US09638950B2 |
Display with opaque border resistant to electrostatic discharge
A display may have a color filter layer and a thin-film transistor layer. A liquid crystal layer may be located between the color filter layer and the thin-film transistor layer. The display may have an active area surrounded by an inactive area. The opaque border layer may contain first and second opaque layers in the inactive area. The first opaque layer may have an opening in the inactive area that is overlapped by an isolation layer. The second opaque layer may be located in the inactive area and may overlap the opening in the first opaque layer to block light in the inactive area. The isolation layer may be interposed between the first and second opaque layers and may prevent static charge from an electrostatic discharge event along the edge of the display from migrating to the active area through the opaque border in the inactive area. |
| US09638941B2 |
Photonic crystal type light modulator and 3D image acquisition apparatus employing the same
A photonic crystal type light modulator is provided. The photonic crystal type light modulator includes: a substrate; a first electrode disposed on the substrate; an active layer disposed on the first electrode, where an optical characteristic of the active layer changes according to application of an electric field; a second electrode disposed on the active layer; and a photonic crystal layer disposed on the second electrode and comprising a 2D grating. |
| US09638940B2 |
Optical modulator with automatic bias correction
An optical modulator uses an optoelectronic phase comparator configured to provide, in the form of an electrical signal, a measure of a phase difference between two optical waves. The phase comparator includes an optical directional coupler having two coupled channels respectively defining two optical inputs for receiving the two optical waves to be compared. Two photodiodes are configured to respectively receive the optical output powers of the two channels of the directional coupler. An electrical circuit is configured to supply, as a measure of the optical phase shift, an electrical signal proportional to the difference between the electrical signals produced by the two photodiodes. |
| US09638937B2 |
Spectacle lens, and method for designing spectacle lens, manufacturing method and manufacturing system of the spectacle lens
There is provided a spectacle lens, including: specific first and second reference points, and eye point between the first and second reference points on a meridian, with each point defined on a meridian; and a power variation portion where power is continuously varied from the first reference point to the second reference point, wherein a variation rate of an addition power is substantially zero in a circle of radius 4 mm with the first reference point as a center, and/or in a circle of radius 4 mm with the eye point as a center. |
| US09638928B2 |
Active diffuser for reducing speckle and laser display device having active diffuser
An active diffuser for reducing a speckle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: an electroactive polymer film having at least one or more scattering patterns; a first transparent electrode coated on one surface of the electroactive polymer film; and a second transparent electrode coated on the other surface of the electroactive polymer film, and a shape of the scattering pattern of the electroactive polymer film is varied by voltage applied through the first transparent electrode and the second transparent electrode. |
| US09638921B2 |
Strap system for head-mounted displays
A strap system for a head-mounted display is disclosed. The strap system includes a rigid segment and a latching subsystem coupled to the rigid segment. The rigid segment has opposite first and second sides. The rigid segment couples to the head-mounted display from the first side. The latching subsystem couples to the second side of the rigid segment. The latching subsystem includes a plate including a pair of slots to respectively receive a pair of posts protruding from a detachable audio system. The latching subsystem also includes a pair of latches to latch to grooves in the pair of posts. Each latch of the pair of latches includes an opening that overlaps a respective slot of the pair of slots. The opening receives a respective post of the pair of posts. |
| US09638920B2 |
Torsional support for binocular display
A binocular head mounted display includes a first binocular eye piece including a first torsional brace and a second binocular eye piece including a second torsional brace configured to engage the first torsional brace. The binocular head mounted also includes a frame assembly holding the first binocular eye piece and the second binocular eye piece at an adjustable interpupillary distance. The frame assembly includes a torsional support to directly or indirectly engage the first torsional brace and the second torsional brace. Such engagement resists rotational movement of the first binocular eye piece relative to the second binocular eye piece. |
| US09638919B1 |
Method for reducing reflection when operating a head-up display of a motor vehicle
A method for reducing reflection when operating a head-up display of a motor vehicle. The head-up display includes a covering disk element and a dimming element for dimming a deflected light beam of ambient light. A control device determines a light beam path of the deflected light beam, determines a current position and orientation of the dimming element, and determines a region to be kept free of the deflected light beam around the eye point of a user. Based on this, the control device determines whether the deflected light beam passes through the area to be kept free. If so, the control device generates a control signal for adjusting a position of the dimming element to dim the deflected light beam with an adjustment device, and the adjustment device adjusts the position of the dimming element depending on the control signal. |
| US09638917B2 |
Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus using the same
A zoom lens includes a first lens unit having a negative refractive power, a second lens unit having a positive refractive power, and a third lens unit having a negative refractive power. At the time of zooming, distances between the lens units change, and a distance between the first lens unit and the second lens unit at a telephoto end is shorter than at a wide angle end. An aperture stop is disposed on the image side of an image-side surface of the first lens unit, and on the object side of an image-side surface of the second lens unit. The second lens unit includes two sub lens units. The object-side sub lens unit in the second lens unit includes one lens component. The following conditional expressions are satisfied. 3.0<ΔD12/ERS<4.5 1.05<|f3/fUN21|<2.1 |
| US09638910B2 |
Image measurement device
The image measurement device includes: a measurement target place specifying part that specifies a measurement target place on a workpiece image based on a user's operation; an illumination condition storage part that holds two or more illumination conditions; an imaging control part that controls a camera and an illumination device to acquire two or more of the workpiece images sequentially photographed while making the illumination condition different; a workpiece image display part that displays the acquired plurality of workpiece images; a workpiece image selecting part that selects any one of the displayed workpiece images; an illumination condition deciding part that decides the illumination condition based on the selected workpiece image; and a dimension calculating part that extracts an edge of the measurement target place based on the workpiece image photographed on the decided illumination condition, and obtains a dimension of the measurement target place based on the extracted edge. |
| US09638901B2 |
Zoom lens and imaging device using the same
A zoom lens includes, in the order starting from the object side to the side of an image plane, a first lens group having positive refractive power, a second lens group having negative refractive power, a third lens group having negative refractive power, and a fourth lens group having positive refractive power. The fourth lens group includes, in the order starting from the side closest to the image plane to the object side, a first positive lens, a first negative lens, a second negative lens and a second positive lens. The fourth lens group G4 has a configuration that satisfies the following conditional expression (1) when νdP1 represents an Abbe number of the first positive lens L46 and νdN1 represents an Abbe number of the first negative lens L45: −40<νdP1−νdN1<0 (1). |
| US09638897B2 |
Optical image capturing system
A five-piece optical lens for capturing image and a five-piece optical module for capturing image, along the optical axis in order from an object side to an image side, include a first lens with refractive power having a convex object-side surface; a second lens with refractive power; a third lens with refractive power; a fourth lens with refractive power; and a fifth lens with negative refractive power; and at least one of the image-side surface and object-side surface of each of the five lens elements are aspheric. The optical lens can increase aperture value and improve the imagining quality for use in compact cameras. |
| US09638896B2 |
Imaging lens
An imaging lens in which a positive first lens group, a positive second lens group, and a negative third lens group are arranged in order from the object side. The first lens group includes a positive first lens having a convex object-side surface and a second lens. The second lens group includes third and fourth lenses each having at least one aspheric surface. The third lens group includes a fifth lens, a sixth lens as a double-sided aspheric lens, and a seventh lens having a concave image-side surface near an optical axis. The lenses are not joined to each other, the seventh lens has an aspheric image-side surface whose shape changes from concave to convex as the distance from the optical axis increases, and an F-number is less than 1.8. |
| US09638894B2 |
Photographing optical lens assembly, image capturing device and electronic device
A photographing optical lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element and a fifth lens element. The first lens element with positive refractive power has a convex object-side surface. The second lens element with negative refractive power has a concave image-side surface. The third lens element with positive refractive power has a convex object-side surface and a convex image-side surface. The fourth lens element with refractive power has a convex object-side surface and a concave image-side surface, wherein the surfaces thereof are aspheric. The fifth lens element with refractive power has a convex object-side surface, and an image-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof and having at least one convex shape in an off-axial region thereof, wherein the surfaced thereof are aspheric. |
| US09638892B2 |
Rear conversion lens
A rear conversion lens includes: a chassis including two opposite ends, the chassis including light-transmitting holes on the ends, respectively; a first coupler configured to detachably couple one of the ends of the chassis with an image field side of an image-pickup lens of a three-chip camera including three first image sensors, the image-pickup lens being designed based on an assumption that the image-pickup lens is to be used with a color-separation prism in combination; a second coupler configured to detachably couple the other end of the chassis with a single-chip color camera including a second image sensor, the second image sensor including an image field larger than an image field of the first image sensors of the three-chip camera; and an optical system including a first lens group, a second lens group, and a third lens group arranged in the chassis in this order from an object side, the first lens group having a negative compound focal length, the second lens group being configured to correct a spherical aberration, the third lens group being configured to form an image. |
| US09638885B2 |
Lens driving apparatus
A lens driving apparatus includes a lens holding member, a static member including a housing, a biasing member, and a moving mechanism. The biasing member includes upper and lower leaf springs. The upper leaf spring includes an upper first portion, an upper second portion, and an upper elastic arm portion. A through hole is formed in the upper first portion of the upper leaf spring. The lens holding member includes a fastening portion that includes a mount surface on which the upper leaf spring is placed, a recess facing the through hole, and a protrusion inserted into the through hole. An adhesive held in the recess surrounds the protrusion and part of the adhesive spreads to an upper surface of the upper first portion of the upper leaf spring through the through hole. The upper leaf spring is fixed to the lens holding member with the adhesive. |
| US09638884B2 |
Selective component bonding technique
A method of selectively bonding a component to a substrate prevents glue displacement onto neighboring components. The method entails shortening a section of the perimeter of a mount wall so that the foot of the mount wall contacts the glue without causing substantial displacement. A cure step hardens and holds the shortened foot of the mount wall in a stationary position, while providing a partial bond. Meanwhile the rest of the mount wall that is not located near contact pads on the substrate has a tall foot that extends to the surface of the substrate and is bonded in the usual way. By modifying the component, it is not necessary to modify either the chemistry of the epoxy or the epoxy dispense operation. |
| US09638883B1 |
Passive alignment of array camera modules constructed from lens stack arrays and sensors based upon alignment information obtained during manufacture of array camera modules using an active alignment process
Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention actively align a representative optic array with an imager array, and subsequently passively align constituent optic arrays with constituent imager arrays based on data from the active alignment. In one embodiment, a method of aligning a plurality of lens stack arrays with a corresponding plurality of sensors includes: aligning a first lens stack array relative to a first sensor, varying the spatial relationship between the first lens stack array and the first sensor; capturing images of a known target using the arrangement at different spatial relationships between the first lens stack array and the first sensor; scoring the quality of the captured images; and aligning at least a second lens stack array relative to at least a second sensor, based on the scored images and the corresponding spatial relationships by which the scored images were obtained. |
| US09638882B2 |
Spooling cable
A method includes mounting a spool system at a floor level of a multiple dwelling unit. The floor level has multiple customer units. The spool system includes at least one spool of fiber optic cable. Each end of each fiber optic cable has a spliced-on connector. The method further includes paying out a length of fiber optic cable from the at least one spool to reach a customer unit of the floor level, connecting one of the connectors of the paid-out fiber optic cable to a floor splitter, and connecting the floor splitter to a distribution splitter of the multiple dwelling unit. |
| US09638881B2 |
Apparatus having housing in which optical fiber is provided, supporting member, and supporting method
According to an aspect of the apparatus of the present invention, wind generated by a cooling fan blows in a housing, and a port is optically connected with an optical module via an optical fiber. Further, a shielding wall is provided to an optical fiber arranging member, which supports and guides the optical fiber, so as to prevent the optical fiber from being exposed to the wind. |
| US09638879B2 |
Adapter panel with lateral sliding adapter arrays
An adapter panel arrangement including a chassis and a panel of adapters. The adapters defining open rearward cable connections and open forward cable connections of the panel arrangement. The adapters being arranged in arrays that slide independently of other adapter arrays to provide access to the open rearward and open forward cable connections. |
| US09638872B2 |
Optical communication connector
In accordance with the following description, an optical communication connector includes a ferrule having retractable alignment pins that are actuable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the connector may include an inner housing assembly having optical fibers and an outer housing positioned over the inner housing assembly. The outer housing is shaped to be removable from the inner housing assembly, which has a movable pin clamp mechanically coupled to alignment pins for aligning the connector with another connector. The pin clamp may be slid from a first position (corresponding to a male gender) to a second position (corresponding to a female gender). Separately or in combination with changing gender, the polarity of a communication connector may be changed due to its inclusion of an asymmetric polarity-changing feature that is actuable by an installer to change a polarity of the communication connector. Such a feature may actuated by being moved from a first position to a second position relative to the communication connector. |
| US09638866B2 |
Optical fibre quick connect box
A mechanism for securing a series of fiber optic cable connectors includes a base that has several connector recesses and a lid that is removably attached to the base. The mechanism may be used to ruggedly connect a series of fiber optic cables in a downhole instrument where space is limited, with the ability to break each of the series of fiber optic cables individually. |
| US09638862B2 |
Monolithic beam-shaping optical systems and methods for an OCT probe
Monolithic beam-shaping optical systems and methods are disclosed for an optical coherence tomography (OCT) probe that includes a transparent cylindrical housing having asymmetric optical power. The system includes a transparent monolithic body having a folded optical axis and at least one alignment feature that supports the end of an optical fiber adjacent an angled planar end wall. The monolithic body also includes a total-internal reflection surface and a lens surface that define object and image planes. Light from the optical fiber end traverses the optical path, which includes the cylindrical housing residing between the lens surface and the image plane. Either the lens surface by itself or the lens surface and the reflective (eg, TIR) surface in combination are configured to substantially correct for the asymmetric optical power of the cylindrical housing, thereby forming a substantially rotationally symmetric image spot at the image plane. |
| US09638860B2 |
Optical coupling member and optical connector using the same, and optical coupling member holding member
It is an object of the present invention to simply position a lens and an optical fiber while suppressing an increase in cost. An optical coupling member includes an optical fiber (13), a holder (11) that holds the optical fiber (13) inserted from an insertion hole (11a) formed at one end, and a lens such as a collimator lens (12) accommodated in an accommodation section (11c) formed at the other end of the holder (11), in which positioning is performed by causing the lens and/or the end face of the optical fiber (13) to come into contact with a tapered surface provided at a position facing the lens (12) and the optical fiber (13) in a protruding portion (11e) formed on an inner surface in the vicinity of the accommodation section (11c) of the holder (11). |
| US09638859B1 |
Optical fiber alignment device
A fiber alignment or “fiberposer” device enables the passive alignment of one or more optical fibers to a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) device using mating hard-stop features etched into the two devices. Accordingly, fiber grooves can be provide separate from the electrical and optical elements, and attached to the PIC with sub-micron accuracy. Fiberposers may also include a hermetic seal for a laser or other device on the PIC. All of these features significantly reduce the typical cost of an actively aligned optical device sealed in an hermetic package. |
| US09638858B2 |
Athermal hybrid optical source
A hybrid optical source that provides an optical signal having a wavelength (or a narrow band of wavelengths) is described. This hybrid optical source includes an optical amplifier (such as a III-V semiconductor optical amplifier) that is butt-coupled or vertically coupled to a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform, and which outputs an optical signal. The SOI platform includes an optical waveguide that conveys the optical signal. A temperature-compensation element included in the optical waveguide compensates for temperature dependence of the indexes of refraction of the optical amplifier and the optical waveguide. In addition, a reflector, adjacent to the optical waveguide after the temperature-compensation element, reflects a portion of the optical signal and transmits another portion of the optical signal that has the wavelength. |
| US09638850B2 |
Polarizer, process for preparing the same, optical member and liquid crystal displaying apparatus
An object of the present invention is to provide a polarizer which is thin and light as well as has durability, and an optical member capable of forming a liquid-crystalline displaying apparatus for mobiles which is excellent in reliance. According to the present invention, there is provided a polarizer, which comprises a protecting film comprising an epoxy resin as a main component on at least one side of a polarizing film. This polarizer can be produced by a method of coating an uncured epoxy resin composition on at least one side of a polarizing film, and then curing the composition to form a protecting film. Also, an optical member comprising a laminate of the aforementioned polarizer and other optical layer exhibiting the optical function is provided and, further, a liquid crystal displaying apparatus comprising the optical member disposed on one side or both sides of a liquid-crystalline cell is provided. |
| US09638848B2 |
Patterned phase difference film and method for manufacturing same
A pattern phase difference film is manufactured by a process including a laminate body formation step of applying a pattern alignment layer composition on a substrate to form a laminate body, a heat-drying layer formation step of heat-drying the composition to form a heat-dried layer, a pattern alignment layer formation step of irradiating a polarization pattern onto the heat-dried layer to form a pattern alignment layer, and a phase difference layer formation step of forming a phase difference layer including a rod-shaped compound on the pattern alignment layer. During the steps between the heat-drying layer formation step and the phase difference layer formation step, the heat-dried layer and the pattern alignment layer are exposed to the air for four hours or less. |
| US09638839B2 |
Optical zoom probe
An optical zoom probe is disclosed. The optical zoom probe includes: at least one liquid lens having a focus which is configured to be adjusted according to a flow of a fluid through a flow path; and a barrel provided to form the flow path and including a narrowed first end part including a first opening through which an image is captured, the at least one liquid lens being provided inside the barrel. |
| US09638836B1 |
Lenses having astigmatism correcting inside reflective surface
A lens includes a material spanning an area and providing an inside reflective three-dimensional (3D) surface. The reflective 3D surface is defined by a plurality of reflective optical elements including a first reflective optical element and at least a second reflective optical element that each include a sub-element set including a center sub-element (CS) and a plurality of neighboring sub-elements. The plurality of reflective optical elements each have their own non-overlapping optical center axis; and a cylindrically bent spherical surface. The cylindrically bent spherical surface is defined by the neighboring sub-elements in each reflective optical element being located at different 3D points so that the reflective optical elements relative to at least one neighboring reflective optical element provides different values of spherical curvature and different values of cylindrical axis orientation. Each of the plurality of reflective optical elements can provide a different optical power for correction of astigmatism. |
| US09638834B2 |
Hybrid epoxy-acrylic with zirconium oxide nanocomposite for curable coatings
A composition includes: a continuous liquid phase including an acrylic monomer and an epoxy monomer; and a dispersed nanoparticulate including ZrO2 modified with an acrylic silane; and wherein the composition is transparent to visible light when coated on a lens. In addition, a method including the steps of: mixing an acrylic silane and a methanol-based ZrO2 sol to create a methanol-based silane-modified ZrO2 sol; then mixing at least an acrylic monomer, an epoxy monomer, and the methanol-based silane-modified ZrO2 sol to obtain the composition. The composition can be adapted for coating and curing onto another substrate, such as an ophthalmic lens. |
| US09638828B2 |
Method and system for performing surveying and sampling in a body of water
Method and system is described for marine surveying. The method involves operations for exploring and developing hydrocarbons with one or more unmanned vehicles. The unmanned vehicles are used to perform marine surveying and to obtain one or more samples that may be used to identify chemical, hydrocarbon and/or biologic information, which may be used for environmental monitoring of bodies of water. |
| US09638826B2 |
Method using near and far field ULF and ELF interferometry synthetic aperture radar for subsurface imaging
This invention relates to devices and processes for geophysical prospecting, subsurface fluid monitoring and, more particular, to the use of interferometric techniques using Control Source Electromagnetic (“CSEM”) and Magnetoturelic (“MT”) signals to create images of sub-surface structures and fluids. |
| US09638825B2 |
Metal sensor
A metal sensor includes a primary coil, a compensation coil, a first additional coil, and a magnetic field sensor. The first additional coil is configured to be excited without the primary coil and the compensation coil being excited. |
| US09638824B2 |
Quad-gradient coils for use in locating systems
Buried object locators including an omnidirectional antenna array and a quad gradient array are disclosed. A locator display may include information associated with a buried object based on both omnidirectional antenna array signals and quad gradient antenna array signals. |
| US09638814B2 |
Radiation imaging apparatus, radiation imaging system, and storage medium
A radiation imaging apparatus including a radiation detection unit in which a plurality of photoelectric conversion devices configured to convert radiation into electric charges are arranged and a communication unit configured to output image data formed from electric charges read out from the photoelectric conversion devices includes a setting unit configured to perform setting for connecting the communication unit wirelessly to an external apparatus, by executing processing based on a plurality of setting methods. |
| US09638812B2 |
Reconstruction apparatus for reconstructing a pet image
A reconstruction apparatus (9) reconstructs a PET image. A first detector (3) generates first detection events and detection times assigned to the first detection events and a second detector (6) generates second detection events and detection times assigned to the second detection events. A timing window determination unit (11) provides a first-second timing window by providing a first-second upper threshold based on the position of the second detector relative to the first detector and a detection event pairs generation unit (12) generates first-second detection event pairs based on the provided first-second timing window. The first-second detection event pairs are used for reconstructing the PET image. The first-second timing window depends on the position of the second detector leads to an improved generation of first-second detection event pairs, which in turn can lead to an improved PET image. |
| US09638811B2 |
System and method for detecting gamma radiation, such as a gamma camera
The invention relates to a system for detecting gamma radiation, such as a gamma camera, including a source of gamma rays, at least one plate P1 of a fast scintillator, the time thereof for rising to the light peak being less than 1 ns, said plate comprising a diffusing entry surface and a polished exit surface, having a thickness of no less than 10 mm, being provided with photodetectors and microelectronics for dedicated reading, characterized in that the microelectronics are of the ASIC type, in that the detector is segmented, and in that on said plate P1, each segment of said detector is capable of measuring a first trigger T1 such that a time resolution is lower than 100 ps; the detector can measure a space and time distribution of the first adjacent photons emitted by an event on the detectors for a time of more than 100 ps and no longer than the time for rising to the light peak of the scintillator. The invention further relates to the image-reconstruction method implemented in the system, as well as to the implementation and use of said system. The invention additionally relates to the image-reconstruction method and to the method for improving the energy resolution of the detector installed in the system, as well as to the implementation of said system. |
| US09638809B2 |
Handheld dual thermal neutron detector and gamma-ray spectrometer
A combined thermal neutron detector and gamma-ray spectrometer system, including: a first detection medium including a lithium chalcopyrite crystal operable for detecting neutrons; a gamma ray shielding material disposed adjacent to the first detection medium; a second detection medium including one of a doped metal halide, an elpasolite, and a high Z semiconductor scintillator crystal operable for detecting gamma rays; a neutron shielding material disposed adjacent to the second detection medium; and a photodetector coupled to the second detection medium also operable for detecting the gamma rays; wherein the first detection medium and the second detection medium do not overlap in an orthogonal plane to a radiation flux. Optionally, the first detection medium includes a 6LiInSe2 crystal. Optionally, the second detection medium includes a SrI2(Eu) scintillation crystal. |
| US09638806B2 |
System and method for detecting ambiguities in satellite signals for GPS tracking of vessels
The present invention relates to a system for detecting ambiguities in a satellite signal for the GPS tracking of vessels, which includes: a GNSS receiving unit obtaining a vessel position using a plurality of satellites; a vessel position calculating unit calculating a second vessel position from a first vessel position after a specific amount of time elapses using dead-reckoning; a distance calculating unit calculating prediction distances between each of the satellites and the vessel and an error monitoring unit comparing the calculated prediction distances between the satellites and the vessel, and pseudoranges between the satellites and the GNSS receiving unit at the second vessel position, and monitoring for the occurrence of errors at the satellites on the basis of the existence of an increase in errors at each of the satellites. |
| US09638803B2 |
Navigation data configuration for optimal time to first fix
A method and a system for reducing time to first fix (TTFF) in a satellite navigation receiver generate a navigation data structure including three sub-frames. A first sub-frame and a second sub-frame accommodate selective ephemeris data. The third sub-frame accommodates a text message including almanac data optionally, ionospheric data, coordinated universal time (UTC) data, textual data optionally, and any combination thereof. A signal generation system (SGS) in the system selectively groups the almanac data, the ionospheric data, and the UTC data, and selectively transmits the navigation data with the almanac data or free of the almanac data in the navigation data structure to the satellite navigation receiver. The signal generation system also staggers the navigation data in each sub-frame into a first portion and a second portion for parallelly transmitting the navigation data over a first carrier frequency and a second carrier frequency in reduced time. |
| US09638802B2 |
Unmanned aerial vehicle detection method using global positioning system leakage signal and system therefor
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) detection method and a system therefor are provided. The UAV detection method includes receiving a radio signal from air, detecting a global positioning system (GPS) leakage signal of a predetermined frequency from the received radio signal, and determining that a UAV is detected when the GPS leakage signal is detected. |
| US09638800B1 |
Passive tracking system
A passive-tracking system is described herein. The system can include a visible-light sensor, a sound transducer, a thermal sensor, a time-of-flight (ToF) sensor, and a processor. The processor can receive visible-light frames from the visible-light sensor, sound frames from the sound transducer, thermal frames from the thermal sensor, and modulated-light frames from the ToF sensor. The processor, based on data of the visible-light and temperature frames, can also determine that an object is a living being and can provide an X and Y position of the object. The processor, based on data of the sound and positioning frames, can determine a Z position of the object. The X, Y, and Z positions may combine to form a three-dimensional (3D) position of the object. The processor can also passively track the object over time by selectively updating the 3D position of the object. |
| US09638798B2 |
Imaging transducer array
An imaging transducer (302) includes a plurality of transducer elements (404, 604, 704, 804) arranged with respect to each other in an array along an long axis of the transducer, wherein an effective width of a transducer element of the transducer is equal to or greater than a center-to-center distance between adjacent transducer elements. A method includes acquiring data with an imaging transducer, wherein the transducer includes a plurality of transducer elements arranged with respect to each other in an array along an long axis of the transducer, wherein an effective width of a transducer element of the transducer is equal to or greater than a center-to-center distance between adjacent transducer elements. |
| US09638797B2 |
Monitoring device
A monitoring device comprising a plurality of emitters and a plurality of receivers is provided. The emitters are capable of being driven to emit waves with directivity. The receivers are correspondingly disposed with respect to the emitters for receiving the waves. The transmitting paths of the waves define a monitoring area. The monitoring device is able to determine the moving trend and the location of the first object in the monitoring area when the specific waves are reflected to and received by the corresponding receivers. |
| US09638792B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting obstacles in propagation path of a wireless communication signal
An approach for implementing a mechanism to detect obstacles in propagation path of a wireless communication signal and dynamically control one or more functions in a communication system of the signal. The approach includes receiving a sensed signal at a sensing antenna, wherein the sensing antenna is associated with a transmitting antenna. The approach also includes determining that the sensed signal is a disrupted signal element of a transmitted signal originating from the transmitting antenna. Further, the approach includes initiating a cessation of the transmitted signal, an attenuation of the transmitted signal, a presentation of an alert notification, or combination thereof based on the disrupted signal element signal. |
| US09638790B2 |
System for calibrating a distance measuring device
The invention relates to a system for calibrating a distance measuring device, comprising: a measuring track, on which the distance measuring device is mountable; an areal reflector mountable shiftably on the measuring track for reflecting a measurement signal transmitted from the distance measuring device back to the distance measuring device, so that by means of the distance measuring device a distance measurement for determining a distance (D) between the distance measuring device and the reflector is performable; and a laser distance measuring device mountable on the measuring track for registering tilt of the reflector; wherein means for orienting the distance measuring device are provided, so that measurement signals of the distance measuring device reflected back to the distance measuring device by means of the reflector are received with maximum intensity by the distance measuring device. |
| US09638789B2 |
Method, device and system for processing radar signals
An embodiment relates to a method for processing input data that includes multiplying a portion of the input data with a first set of coefficients or with a second set of coefficients, wherein the first set of coefficients and the second set of coefficients are stored in a memory, wherein the first set of coefficients is used on phase modulated input data and wherein the second set of coefficients is used on input data that are not phase modulated. |
| US09638788B2 |
Apparatus for detecting creeping of radar waves
An apparatus that detects creeping of radar waves includes: a transmitter transmitting radar waves; a receiver receiving incoming waves from a target; a distance detecting unit detecting a first distance which is a distance up to the target; a speed derivation unit deriving a relative speed relative to the target; a distance estimating unit estimating, based on the relative speed, a second distance which is a distance up to the target; and a creeping detecting unit determining whether or not a creeping has occurred in accordance with whether or not the differential distance representing a deviation quantity between the first distance and the second distance is larger than or equal to a predetermined threshold. |
| US09638786B2 |
System and method for locating a mobile terminal in a finite location
Embodiments of the present invention include methods, systems and computer program products. Systems, methods and computer program products of the various preferred embodiments can include one or more sensors disposable in a finite location and adapted to receive a communication channel signal from a mobile terminal located in the finite location and a controller connected to the one or more sensors and adapted to calculate a position of the mobile terminal within the finite location. The systems, methods and computer program products of the various preferred embodiments can also include a pseudo-station disposable in the finite location and connected to the controller and adapted to induce a communication channel signal from the mobile terminal by transmitting a control channel signal in the finite location. |
| US09638785B2 |
Position measurement system for geostationary artificial satellite
Ground stations 20, 21 receive any signal transmitted by a geostationary artificial satellite 10, and store the reception signal together with the reception time thereof. A difference Δt in reception time of a same signal between the ground station 20 and the ground station 21 is calculated by performing correlation processing of the reception signal of the ground station 20 and the reception signal of the ground station 21. A distance R20 between the ground station 20 and the geostationary artificial satellite 10 is measured by a distance measurement device. A distance R21 between the ground station 21 and the geostationary artificial satellite 10 is calculated on the basis of the distance R20 obtained by measurement and the difference Δt in reception times, as obtained by correlation processing. |
| US09638782B2 |
Probe card analysis system and method
A system and method for evaluating wafer test probe cards under real-world wafer test cell condition integrates wafer test cell components into the probe card inspection and analysis process. Disclosed embodiments may utilize existing and/or modified wafer test cell components such as, a head plate, a test head, a signal delivery system, and a manipulator to emulate wafer test cell dynamics during the probe card inspection and analysis process. |
| US09638775B2 |
Connecting device for a magnetic system of an imaging system
A connecting device for a magnetic system of an imaging system includes a holding element for connection of the connecting device to a power supply connection of the magnetic system, and a connecting element for connection of the connecting device to a power supply cable for operation of the magnetic system. The connecting device also includes an oscillation damping device having a spring element. The oscillation damping device is operable to dampen oscillations of the magnetic system that act on the connecting device by way of the holding element, with respect to the connecting element. |
| US09638772B2 |
Connector and medical equipment
A connector and medical equipment are provided. The connector includes at least one framework and at least one fastening structure. The at least one connector is used to connect a main body and a housing. The at least one framework is arranged along the outside of the main body. The fastening structure is located on the at least one framework. The at least one fastening structure is used to connect the housing. |
| US09638767B2 |
Current sensor and attachment structure of the same
In a current sensor for detecting an electric current flowing in a current path, a magnetic field generating element generates a second magnetic field perpendicular to a first magnetic field generated by the electric current of the current path, and a magnetic sensor generates at least one of a first signal containing a sine value according to an angle defined between the second magnetic field and a synthetic magnetic field composed of the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field and a second signal containing a cosine value according to the angle. A signal processing unit includes a calculation circuit that calculates a tangential value according to the angle using the at least one of the first signal and the second signal, and outputs a sensor signal containing the tangential value. |
| US09638762B2 |
Highly efficient diagnostic methods for monolithic sensor systems
Embodiments relate to integrated circuit (IC) sensors and more particularly to IC sensor diagnostics using multiple (e.g., redundant) communication signal paths, wherein one or more of the communication signal paths can be diverse (e.g., in hardware, software or processing, an operating principle, or in some other way) from at least one other of the multiple communication signal paths. Embodiments can relate to a variety of sensor types, implementations and applications, including 3D magnetic field and other sensors. |
| US09638759B2 |
Power cell system with means for detecting a discontinuity
A power cell system, e.g. a fuel cell system, having a plurality of power cells, e.g. fuel cells and plurality of first resistances, the plurality of power cells and first resistances being connected in the form of a ladder circuit, and electronic filters each having a first connection to a first node between two of the first resistances, each electronic filter comprising a second resistance and a charge storage device connected to the second resistance. |
| US09638757B2 |
Method and arrangement for monitoring the voltage on electrical storage units, battery and motor vehicle having such a battery
The present disclosure relates to a method for monitoring the voltage on electrical storage units, to a battery and to a motor vehicle having such a battery that are configured to be used particularly for improved establishment of overvoltages and/or undervoltages on modules of the electrical storage unit. To this end, a method for monitoring the voltage on at least one electrical storage unit includes extracting an idle voltage U_OCV on the at least one electrical storage unit from a voltage U_measured that is measured on the at least one electrical storage unit. |
| US09638755B2 |
Test switch signal analyzer
A test switch signal analyzer comprising: an analyzer hub operably couplable to a test switch base that includes test switch conductors; signal probe(s) couplable to the analyzer hub and to the plurality of test switch conductors when the analyzer hub is coupled to the test switch base, a signal processing unit coupled to the analyzer hub; the signal processing unit, the analyzer hub, and at least a portion of the at least one signal probe being positionable within a test switch cover that mates with the test switch base when the signal probe is coupled to the test switch conductor(s) and the test switch cover is secured to the test switch base. |
| US09638754B2 |
Semiconductor apparatus
A semiconductor apparatus includes a test entry control block configured to generate a plurality of trigger signals and a reset signal according to a test setting command and addresses; and a test entry signal generation block configured to enable a test entry signal when the plurality of trigger signals are sequentially enabled. |
| US09638753B2 |
Tap clock and enable control of scan register, flip-flop, compressor
The disclosure describes a novel method and apparatus for providing expected data, mask data, and control signals to scan test architectures within a device using the falling edge of a test/scan clock. The signals are provided on device leads that are also used to provide signals to scan test architectures using the rising edge of the test/scan clock. According to the disclosure, device test leads serve to input different test signals on the rising and falling edge of the test/scan clock which reduces the number of interconnects between a tester and the device under test. |
| US09638751B2 |
Parallel test device and method
A parallel test device and method are disclosed, which relates to a technology for performing a multi-bit parallel test by compressing data. The parallel test device includes: a pad unit through which data input/output (I/O) operations are achieved; a plurality of input buffers configured to activate write data received from the pad unit in response to a buffer enable signal, and output the write data to a global input/output (GIO) line; a plurality of output drivers configured to activate read data received from the global I/O (GIO) line in response to a strobe delay signal, and output the read data to the pad unit; and a test controller configured to activate the buffer enable signal and the strobe delay signal during a test mode in a manner that the read data received from the plurality of output drivers is applied to the plurality of input buffers such that the read data is operated as the write data. |
| US09638750B2 |
Frequency-domain high-speed bus signal integrity compliance model
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide apparatus for using a compliance model to determine compatibility of a channel with a bus's chip I/O circuitry at its ends. The apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the at least one processor. The processor is configured to: identify at least one design criteria; obtain boundary sets of frequency domain parameters for compliant signal channels known to achieve the design criteria; and verify whether a particular signal channel is compliant by comparing values of frequency domain parameters for the particular channel to one or more of the boundary sets of frequency domain parameters for the known compliant channels. |
| US09638748B2 |
Tray loading system for electronic components
A tray loading system for tested electronic components including a tray loading bin adapted to prevent trays of a first configuration from being operably received in a first bin operating mode and to operably receive trays of the first configuration in a second bin operating mode. The system also includes an operating mode switching assembly adapted to automatically change from the second operating mode to the first operating mode in response to an operation associated with removal of loaded trays of the first configuration from the tray loading bin. |
| US09638747B2 |
Placing integrated circuit devices using perturbation
Placing integrated circuit devices using a perturbation is described. In one example, a testing platform has a circuit board. A socket is on the board for receiving and connecting to an integrated circuit package. The socket has an array of pins to engage connection bumps on a surface of the package and a biasing feature to guide the package into alignment with the pins of the socket. A perturbation source induces movement of the package into alignment with the pins of the socket. |
| US09638745B2 |
Wafer mounting method and wafer inspection device
Disclosed is a method for mounting a wafer on a probe card. In the wafer mounting method, an extendable tubular member is placed to surround the probe card, the wafer is placed on a chuck top, the chuck top is supported by a movable stage, and the stage is moved toward the probe card together with the wafer and the chuck top to bring the chuck top into contact with the tubular member. After the chuck top is in contact with the tubular member, the stage is moved toward the probe card together with the wafer and the chuck top to bring the wafer into contact with the probe card and maintain a positional relationship of the stage, the wafer, and the chuck top. After the wafer is in contact with the probe card, a space surrounded by the chuck top, the tubular member, and the probe card is evacuated. |
| US09638744B2 |
Integrated circuit device, safety circuit, safety-critical system and method of manufacturing an integrated circuit device
An integrated circuit device comprises a first integrated circuit and a second integrated circuit wherein the first and second integrated circuits are comprised on a single semiconductor die. The second integrated circuit is a safety circuit arranged to monitor the operation of the first integrated circuit, report any detected faults and drive the device into a failsafe state if a fault is detected. The first integrated circuit may be a power management module for a safety critical system. An isolation barrier in the form of a trench is formed between the two integrated circuits so that the safety circuit is protected from any high voltage or thermal stresses arising in the first integrated circuit. The device has particular application to automotive safety-critical systems such as electric power steering systems. |
| US09638743B2 |
State-dependent capacitance estimation
Techniques for estimating state-dependent capacitance of a circuit are described herein. In one embodiment, a method for determining a circuit state for a circuit comprises determining a capacitance of the circuit for each one of a plurality of circuit states, and selecting one of the circuit states based on the determined capacitances. |
| US09638739B2 |
Defect coordinates measurement device, defect coordinates measurement method, mask manufacturing method, and reference mask
A defect coordinates measurement method includes a step of detecting detected coordinates of a fiducial mark and a defect of a mask blank placed on support pins, a step of detecting detected coordinates of the alignment mark of a reference mask placed on the support pins, a step of extracting a reference mark near the detected coordinates of the defect among the plurality of reference marks based on the detected coordinates of the defect of the mask blank and the alignment mark of the reference mask, a step of detecting detected coordinates of the extracted reference mark, and a step of calculating coordinates of the defect based on the detected coordinates of the reference mark and the detected coordinates of the defect. |
| US09638736B2 |
DC level detection circuit between high speed signal line connecting ports, a system including the circuit, and methods of making and using the same
A DC level detection circuit between high speed signal line connecting ports and a system using the same in optical communications is disclosed. Corresponding ports of a high speed signal line each have an additional resistor, where one additional resistor has a resistance significantly greater than that of the other resistor. The smaller resistor is grounded. The larger resistor is connected to a DC voltage source, a low pass filter, and a signal detection port. Thus, when both ports of the high speed signal line are connected, a status of the electrical level detected at the signal detection port changes. The circuit detects the connection state of the high speed signal line without negative effects on signal transmission and is applicable to various circuits, especially plug-in modules and corresponding slots. Thus, the circuit further enables signal port multifunctionality, increases module installation accuracy, and provides higher compatibility for plug-in modules. |
| US09638733B2 |
Computing device and methods of detecting thermal hotspots in a power distribution system
A method of detecting thermal hotspots in a power distribution system is provided. The power distribution system includes a conductive hub including a connection point for coupling to an electrical distribution component. The method includes measuring a first temperature of the conductive hub at the connection point, estimating a second temperature of the conductive hub at the connection point, and determining when a difference between the first temperature and the second temperature exceeds a first predetermined threshold. The estimation based at least partially on an amount of electric current flowing through the conductive hub. |
| US09638732B2 |
Method and circuit for assessing pulse-width-modulated signals
A method of assessing a pulse-width-modulated signal in which the pulse-width-modulated signal to be assessed is applied to a first input of a microcontroller and a signal, that depends on the pulse-width-modulated signal being assessed, is applied to a second input of the microcontroller for assessment. The pulse-width-modulated signal being assessed is applied to a voltage divider to produce the signal that depends on the same. For the pulse-width-modulated signal to be assessed and for the signal that depends on the same, in each case, the microcontroller determines a time interval between signal edges of the respective signal, and the signal is assessed on the basis of a difference between the time interval between the signal edges in the pulse-width-modulated signal to be assessed and the time interval between the signal edges in the signal that depends on the same. |
| US09638731B2 |
Capacitive touch keyboard
A capacitive touch keyboard includes a shielding layer, a intermediate layer, and a one-dimensional sensor layer where the soft intermediate layer is interposed between the other two to form a capacitor structure. The shielding layer includes a ground plane, and plural first key areas at its outer surface. The one-dimensional sensor layer includes plural sensing cells and plural second key areas where the first key areas correspond to the second key areas, and respective cells are electrically connected to a sensing circuit. Therefore, features of more compact size, simplified structure design, and tactile feel are provided in a capacitive keyboard. |
| US09638730B2 |
Demand target display device
The conventional demand target display device based on time information differing from the information used by electric power companies and electric power consumers causes a divergence regarding their demand values. Therefore, a demand target display device with a dual-purpose scale, which acquires AC signals based on the AC waveform of AC power from a power supply line, generates time information based on the acquired AC signals, transmits the generated time information via radio waves within a housing, receives the transmitted time information via radio waves within the housing, indicates the time on the dual-purpose scale based on the received information, acquires electrical energy consumption within a segment for a given target demand value including the current time, and indicates the relationship between the acquired electrical energy consumption within a segment recorded and a target demand value set for such segment, is proposed. |
| US09638729B2 |
Analysis apparatus and analysis method
Provided are an analysis apparatus and an analysis method which are capable of recognizing a local state change of an internal structure of a secondary battery. The analysis apparatus includes: an observation cell that houses a secondary battery; a charging and discharging controller that controls charging and discharging of the secondary battery; an image pickup device that captures color images of the secondary battery at a predetermined time interval; and a charging and discharging data detection unit that acquires charging and discharging data on the secondary battery during charging and discharging. Color image signals output from the image pickup device and charging and discharging data signals output from the charging and discharging data detection unit are supplied to a signal processing device. The signal processing device outputs a unit that temporally links time-series color image signals and time-series charging and discharging data signals, and designated analysis data. |
| US09638727B2 |
Power inductor and method for implementing shunting measurement through inductor winding
Disclosed is a power inductor. The inductor comprises a magnetic core and multiple lines. The multiple lines have a first terminal and a second terminal, are parallel with each other, and wind the magnetic core to form a winding. The lines at the first terminal depart from the magnetic core at the same position, and the lines at the second terminal depart from the magnetic core at the same position. At least one line at the first terminal forms a first interface end, the other lines at the first terminal, which are not utilized to form the first interface end, form a second interface end, and the lines at the second terminal together form a third interface end. By measuring the current flowing through the first interface end using a current sensor with a small measuring range, the current flowing through the power inductor can be estimated based on ratio. |
| US09638726B2 |
System and method for detecting branch circuit current
According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a system monitor for a load center comprising a current sensor configured to be coupled to a circuit branch within the load center and to produce a measurement signal having a level related to a current level of the circuit branch, a sensor circuit coupled to the current sensor and removably coupled to a terminal, the sensor circuit configured to provide the measurement signal to the terminal, and a controller coupled to the terminal and configured to monitor signals at the terminal, wherein the controller is further configured to detect disconnection of the current sensor from the terminal based on a signal level at the terminal. |
| US09638714B2 |
On-center electrically conductive pins for integrated testing
A structure and method for providing a contact pin between a device under test (DUT) and a load board which provides upper and lower contact point which are axial aligned is disclosed. The pin has an upper (30) and lower (32) section and a hinge in between which allow flex of both upper and lower contact (24/26) which, but the axial alignment can provide a direct replacement for POGO pins but with greater reliability. It also includes a structure and method for removing upper pins 230 by use of a modified hinge 244a. In an alternate embodiment, the lower section includes a leg extension 320 and a sliding contact land 360 which slides against an aperture in the housing. A spacer 342 provides space for decoupling components on the load board. The hinge may include a truncated cylinder 40b which is configured to permit remove of the upper pin without removal of the lower. |
| US09638711B2 |
Method and system for discerning a false positive in a fall detection signal
Methods reduce the likelihood of an MPERS device falsely reporting a high acceleration event as a fall impact. The device stores acceleration data acquired before the high acceleration and afterward. If a number of samples of magnitude values from accelerometer sensors in the device acquired during as interval before the high acceleration that approach 0G exceeds a predetermined number, the high acceleration is deemed from a non-fall. Acceleration sensors can also indicate an orientation change before/after the high acceleration, and a barometric pressure sensor can do the same, to further characterize an event as a non-fall. A method compares current event data to composite data sets that have been determined from a plurality of empirically derived data sets of fall and non-fall events. High correlations can indicate falls, or non-falls, respectively. Further statistical analysis of data acquired after an event reduces the likelihood of falsely indicating a fall. |
| US09638707B2 |
Methods of processing samples
Processing containers include a first member having a substantially rigid body with a plurality of regions defining spaced apart workstations and a flexible barrier member sealably attached to the first member to define a closed chamber over the plurality of workstations. The flexible barrier is substantially impermeable and includes or is a manipulation tool that is sealably attached to the barrier. The manipulation tool has a first internal interface that resides in the closed chamber under the flexible barrier and a second external interface that resides outside the closed chamber. The processing containers are particularly suitable for automated processing of nucleic acids and other samples. The manipulation tool can cooperate with or include a pipette head. When the barrier is sealed, the barrier separates the contents of the container from a robotic arm or other manipulation device. |
| US09638706B2 |
Standard solution for use in analysis of amino acid in plasma
An external standard solution for use in the analysis of amino acid in plasma, containing,(1) at least one amino acid selected from the following components A, at a concentration of 0.0007 M to 0.49 M, and (2) (i) at least one amino acid selected from the following components B, at a concentration of 0.2 to 0.9 times of the lowest-concentration amino acid among the amino acids selected from components A, (ii) at least one amino acid selected from the following components C, at a concentration of 0.1 to 0.4 times of the lowest-concentration amino acid among amino acids selected from the components A, or (iii) at least one amino acid selected from the following components D, at a concentration of 0.05 to 0.2 times of the lowest-concentration amino acid among amino acids selected from the components A; [Components A] valine, glycine, alanine and glutamine [Components B] serine, proline, threonine, taurine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, histidine, phenylalanine and tyrosine [Components C] asparagine, ornithine, arginine and tryptophan [Components D] glutamic acid, methionine, citrulline and cystine. |
| US09638705B2 |
Prognostic assays for maintenance hemodialysis patients
Described herein are methods for determining the overall survival of maintenance hemodialysis patients. The methods include measuring low density lipoprotein (LDL) particle size and subfraction concentrations as prognostic tools for early mortality risk detection. For example, the presence of increased very small LDL concentration or decreased LDL particle size in blood-serum serves as a useful means for prognostic risk assessment and monitoring. |
| US09638700B2 |
NT-pro ANP and SFlt-1 for the differentiation between circulatory and ischemic events
The present disclosure relates to the field of laboratory diagnostics. The present disclosure provides means and methods for differentiating between an acute circulatory event and an ischemic event, as the cause underlying an acute medical event of a patient. |
| US09638699B2 |
Biomarkers of oxidative stress
The present invention relates to a method for detecting cardiovascular oxidative stress in an individual, comprising detecting in a blood sample from the individual modification of a cysteine at position 45 of the β1-subunit of the human erythrocyte ATP-dependent Na+K+ pump protein or of an equivalent cysteine in a homolog or variant thereof. The invention further relates to a kit for detecting cardiovascular oxidative stress in an individual, the kit comprising at least one agent for detecting the presence of a modification in a cysteine at position 45 of the β1-subunit of the human erythrocyte ATP-dependent Na+K+ pump protein or of an equivalent cysteine in a homolog or variant thereof, wherein said modification is a result of oxidation. |
| US09638698B2 |
Embossed cell analyte sensor and methods of manufacture
An analyte measurement system is provided having sensors with embossed test chamber channels. In one embodiment, the sensors are elongate test strips for in vitro testing, each test strip having a substrate, at least one electrode, an embossed channel in the electrode, and lidding tape covering at least a portion of the embossed channel. Methods of manufacture are also disclosed for filling the sensor channels with reagent, and for trimming the ends of the sensors to eliminate the need for a calibration code during use of the sensors with a meter. |
| US09638697B2 |
Monoclonal antibody specifically recognizing asparagine synthetase
It is an object of the present invention to provide a monoclonal antibody, which is suitable for the quantitative analysis of asparagine synthetase in a cell. The present invention provides a monoclonal antibody which specifically recognizes asparagine synthetase that is present in a cell. |
| US09638695B2 |
Noninvasive detection of lung cancer using exhaled breath
A non-invasive method of detecting or screening for lung cancer in a subject specimen is provided. The method includes detecting elevated levels of one or more carbonyl-containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are biomarkers for lung cancer in exhaled breath from the subject specimen. The method may further include obtaining exhaled breath from the subject specimen; forming adducts of the carbonyl-containing VOCs with a reactive chemical compound; quantifying the adducts of the carbonyl-containing VOCs to establish a subject value for each of the adducts; and comparing each subject value to a threshold healthy specimen value for each of the adducts of the carbonyl-containing VOCs. One or more subject values at quantities greater than threshold healthy specimen values are also useful for screening for lung cancer in the subject specimen. |
| US09638692B2 |
Multiplex immuno screening assay
The present invention provides kits and assay methods for the early detection of pathogens, precise identification of the etiologic agent, and improved disease surveillance. More specifically, the present invention discloses an immunoassay leading to the rapid and simultaneous detection of antibodies to a wide range of infectious pathogens in biological fluids of infected patients. This immunoassay involves the covalent and oriented coupling of fusion proteins comprising an AGT enzyme and a viral antigen on an identifiable solid support (e.g. fluorescent microspheres), said support being previously coated with an AGT substrate. This coupling is mediated by the irreversible reaction of the AGT enzyme on its substrate. The thus obtained antigen-coupled microspheres show enhanced capture of specific antibodies as compared to antigen-coupled microspheres produced by standard amine coupling procedures. The methods of the invention possess the ability to multiplex, minimize the amount of biological sample, and have enhanced sensitivity and specificity toward target antibodies as compared with classical ELISA or Radio-Immunoprecipitation assays. |
| US09638685B2 |
Flow assay with at least one electrically-actuated fluid flow control valve and related methods
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to flow assays including at least one electrically-actuated valve configured to control fluid flow. Methods of operating such flow assays are also disclosed. |
| US09638681B2 |
Real-time compositional analysis of hydrocarbon based fluid samples
Accurate, real-time formation fluids analysis can be accomplished using the systems and techniques described herein. A fluid analyzer includes a first mode of analysis, such as an optical analyzer, configured to determine a physical (optical) property of a fluid sample. The fluid analyzer also includes another mode of analysis, such as a composition analyzer, such as a gas chromatograph, configured to determine a component composition of the fluid sample. A data processor is configured to determine a quantity, such as a weight percentage, of a target component of the fluid sample in response results obtained from the first and second modes of analysis. Beneficially, the results are obtained at least in near real-time, allowing for interim results, such as results from the first analyzer to be used for one or more of tuning the compositional analyzer and for implementing quality control. |
| US09638679B2 |
Methods for producing new packaging designs based on photoprotective materials
Methods and apparatus for quantification of photoprotective performance of packaging concepts in an accelerated timeframe are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the apparatus includes a light source which provides a light beam that impinges upon a photoprotective material before being transmitted to a sample cell of a photosensitive entity, such as a photosensitive nutrient. In certain embodiments, the apparatus and methods can be used to generate models for the prediction of photoprotective performance values of untested materials based upon some other known qualitative or quantitative property. |
| US09638678B2 |
System and method for crop health monitoring
A method for monitoring crop health of a geographic region includes receiving an image comprising a set of image elements, the image corresponding to a time unit, mapping an image element of the set of image elements to a geographic sub-region of the geographic region, determining a geographic region performance value for the image element, determining a geographic region performance value change, and identifying a crop health anomaly based on the geographic region performance change and an expected geographic region performance value change. Determining the geographic region performance value for the image element can include determining a vegetative performance value for the image element, mapping the image element to a crop type, and normalizing the vegetative performance value. |
| US09638677B2 |
Chromatograph mass spectrometer
When setting analysis conditions, an analysis operator sets, on a dwell-time calculation/loop-time listing window, the target value of a loop time corresponding to the measurement-time interval to repeat an analysis for one ion, and clicks a dwell time calculation button. Then, a dwell time calculator computes the dwell time for each event, based on the target value of the loop time, the arrangement of events set at that point in time, the number of target ion species set in each event, and other conditional factors. The calculated result is displayed in a dwell time calculation result display field in a listing table. The largest and smallest values of the dwell time are displayed in the largest/smallest dwell time display field. The analysis operator checks this display and changes the target value of the loop time and/or the measurement time of the event so as to achieve an appropriate dwell time. |
| US09638664B2 |
Method of analyzing a material
A method of material analysis, including; placing an electrode in proximity to the material; applying a voltage signal to generate plasma, preferably Dielectric Barrier Discharge in Air, between the material and the electrode; moving the electrode relative to the surface; monitoring an electrical signal associated with the microdischarge; and detecting a change in a physical characteristic of the material through variation in the monitored signal. |
| US09638662B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for manipulating droplets
Apparatuses and methods for manipulating droplets are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for manipulating droplets is provided, the apparatus including a substrate, multiple arrays of electrodes disposed on the substrate, wherein corresponding electrodes in each array are connected to a common electrical signal, and a dielectric layer disposed on the substrate first side surface and patterned to cover the electrodes. |
| US09638661B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling a flow of particles by way of a through-hole
A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method for generating an electric or pressure difference force that induces a plurality of particles to flow through a through-hole. Independently adjustable heat source in a vicinity of the through-hole induces a thermodynamic force for modifying the flow of the plurality of particles through the through-hole. Additional embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09638653B2 |
Highly selective chemical and biological sensors
Methods and sensors for selective fluid sensing are provided. Each sensor includes a resonant inductor-capacitor-resistor (LCR) sensor that is coated with a sensing material. In order to collect data, an impedance spectrum is acquired over a relatively narrow frequency range, such as the resonant frequency range of the LCR circuit. A multivariate signature may be calculated from the acquired spectrum to discern the presence of certain fluids and/or fluid mixtures. The presence of fluids is detected by measuring the changes in dielectric, dimensional, resistance, charge transfer, and other changes in the properties of the materials employed by observing the changes in the resonant electronic properties of the circuit. By using a mathematical procedure, such as principal components analysis (PCA) and others, multiple fluids and mixtures can be detected in the presence of one another, even in a high humidity environment or an environment wherein one or more fluids has a substantially higher concentration (e.g. 10×, 1,000,000×) compared to other components in the mixture. |
| US09638645B2 |
Deterioration analysis method
The present invention provides deterioration analysis method which allows a detailed analysis of deterioration, especially deterioration of surface conditions, of a polymer material. The present invention relates to a deterioration analysis method, including irradiating a polymer material with high intensity X-rays, and measuring X-ray absorption while varying the energy of the X-rays, to analyze deterioration of the polymer. |
| US09638644B2 |
Multiple mode inspection system and method for evaluating a substrate by a multiple mode inspection system
A multiple mode evaluation system that includes a multiple mode imager that is arranged to perform a single scan of a substrate while alternating between different optical modes thereby producing different sets of images of areas of the substrate, each set of images being associated with a single optical mode of image acquisition; wherein the different optical modes differ from each other by at least one optical characteristic. |
| US09638643B2 |
Particulate contamination measurement method and apparatus
A particulate contamination measurement method and apparatus are discussed. The method, for example, comprises pressing a measurement surface (5) of a polyurethane elastomer (2) against a surface (7) to be measured, removing the polyurethane elastomer from the surface without leaving residues, then using an optical apparatus (11) to detect particles (8) which have been removed by the polyurethane elastomer from the surface and which have become attached to the polyurethane elastomer. |
| US09638641B2 |
Inspection system and inspection illumination device
In order to provide an inspection illumination device that makes it possible to greatly change a light amount within an observation solid angle of an imaging device even in a case where a change in reflection or scattering taking place at a feature point is subtle, and thus detect such a minute feature point, the inspection illumination device includes: a surface light source that emits inspection light; a lens that is arranged between the surface light source and an inspection object, and provides an image of the surface light source near the inspection object; and a first light shielding mask that is arranged between the surface light source and the inspection object, and forms a dark domain within an illumination solid angle of the inspection light applied to each point on the inspection object. |
| US09638636B2 |
Microsieve diagnostic device in the isolation and analysis of single cells
A micro well plate is described for capturing and distributing single cells in individual wells is described, wherein at least one individual well is provided with a bottom plate having at least one pore to pass sample liquid, such that if one object or cell of interest is collected on the bottom plate of the well, the sample flow rate through that particular well is significantly reduced, minimizing the possibility that multiple cells or objects of interest entering the same well. The presented invention is particularly suited for obtaining single cells and/or microorganisms suspended in fluid samples for subsequent detailed interrogation. |
| US09638635B2 |
Spectrometer for analysing the spectrum of a light beam
A spectrometer (100) for analyzing the spectrum of an upstream light beam (1), includes an entrance slit (101) and collimating elements (110) suitable for generating, from the upstream light beam, a collimated light beam (10), characterized in that it also includes: a polarization-dependent diffraction grating (120) suitable for diffracting, at each wavelength (11, 12) of the spectrum of the upstream light beam, the collimated light beam into a first diffracted light beam (11, 12) and a second diffracted light beam (21, 22); optical recombining elements (130) including a planar optical reflecting surface (130) perpendicular to the grating and suitable for deviating at least the second diffracted light beam; and focussing elements (140) suitable for focussing, at each wavelength, the first diffracted light beam and the second diffracted light beam onto one and the same focussing area (141). |
| US09638631B2 |
Species spatial reconstruction for exhaust system using spectroscopy and tomography
A system for species concentration spatial reconstruction for an exhaust system includes an emitter, a detector, and a controller. The emitter is coupled to a first portion of the exhaust system and tuned to a specific wavelength of a species to be measured. The detector is coupled to a second portion of the exhaust system opposite to the first portion such that the detector is positioned to detect a beam attenuation of a beam from the emitter. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of beam attenuation measurements from the detector and to generate a cross-sectional species concentration map based on the plurality of beam attenuation measurements. |
| US09638629B2 |
Mass analysis data analyzing method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for estimating the structure of an unidentified substance produced from an original substance having a known structural formula through partial structural change caused by metabolism or the like. A mass difference between a product ion, originating from the unidentified substance and having a partial structure including a structural change site, and a product ion, originating from the original substance and having a partial structure prior to the structural change, is equal to the mass difference between the original substance and the unidentified substance. Therefore, when pairs of product ions each having such a mass difference are selected to be compared with partial structures obtained from the known structural formula of the original substance, a minimum common partial structure having the structural change site is obtained. |
| US09638628B2 |
Gas analysis system and method
A gas analysis system and method filter different wavelengths of incident light using a variable light filter at different locations along a length of the variable light filter to form filtered light. The variable light filter is configured to be disposed between a light source generating plural different wavelengths of the incident light and a gas sample. Intensities of wavelengths of the filtered light are determined after the incident light generated by the light source passes through the variable light filter and the gas sample. The gas sample may be identified from among different potential gasses based on the intensity of the one or more wavelengths of the filtered light that is determined by the light detector. |
| US09638618B2 |
Online measuring assembly of the rheological properties of a drilling fluid and associated measuring method
This assembly includes a measuring device (50) including a container (60) and an insert (62) arranged in the container (60). The measuring device (50) includes a means (68) for driving the container (60) in rotation around a central axis, the container (60) and the insert (62) defining an intermediate space (64) between them for measuring the drilling fluid. The assembly includes a control and measurement unit (58), capable of recording information representative of the force applied by the drilling fluid on the insert (62) during the rotation of the container (60). The assembly includes an intake pipe (84) for bringing drilling fluid to be measured into the intermediate space (94) and a pump (82), comprising an inlet connected to a sampling head (80) and an outlet connected to the intake pipe (84) to pump the drilling fluid towards the intermediate space (64). |
| US09638617B2 |
MEMS-microviscometer
Micro-electromechanical device for measuring the viscosity of a fluid, comprises a measuring chamber with a micromechanical actuator, arranged as a cantilever above a metallically conductive counter electrode, elastically deformable towards the counter electrode, surrounded by the fluid to be measured and made of a metallically conductive material, a two-terminal RF voltage source that can be switched off, having a first output terminal connected to the actuator, and a second output terminal connected to the counter electrode, and which is designed to output an RF voltage signal that is suitable for deflecting the actuator out of its rest position, and a measuring device to detect a change in the frequency, amplitude or phase of the RF signal in order to determine a measurement value for the viscosity-dependent speed at which the actuator is deformed. |
| US09638614B2 |
Measuring tape abrasivity and wear of a tape head-type structure
Embodiments of the present invention relate to wear measurement. A system according to one embodiment includes a transport mechanism for running a tape across a wear structure and a measuring device for optically measuring an extent of wear of the wear structure. A method according to one embodiment includes positioning a tape across a wear structure, optically determining a first position of a back of the tape relative to a measuring device using the measuring device, running the tape across the wear structure for a period of time, optically determining a second position of the back of the tape relative to the measuring device using the measuring device after the period of time, and determining a difference between the first and second positions. |
| US09638610B2 |
Sample processing apparatus
Disclosed is a sample processing apparatus that comprises a rack with positions to hold sample tubes, the rack including a rack identification suited to a kind of sample tube, a rack set unit that accepts the rack in a detachable manner, a tube transfer unit with mechanical movement to grab and take out each sample tube from a rack held in the rack set unit, a rack detector comprising a sensor to detect the rack identification of the rack held in the rack set unit, and a controller that controls movement of the tube transfer unit based on a detection result of the rack detector. |
| US09638609B2 |
Apparatus for providing sample gas and related methods
An apparatus for providing a sample gas includes a gas dosing part, a first pressure gauge for measuring a pressure of a sample gas dosed through the gas dosing part, a plurality of flow lines positioned between the gas dosing part and a gas analyzer that can be opened or closed according to the pressure measured by the first pressure gauge, a plurality of control valves respectively formed in the plurality of flow lines and controlling the plurality of flow lines to be opened or closed, a bypass line formed on at least one of the plurality of flow lines and exhausting some of the sample gas flowing along the flow lines, and a controller for selecting one of the plurality of flow lines according to the pressure measured by the first pressure gauge and controlling the control valves formed in the selected flow line. |
| US09638607B1 |
Portable physical phase stratification and separator
A portable physical phase stratification and separator device that includes a “U”-shaped frame connected to a fluid sump having a tank with an inlet port is disclosed. The inlet port is connected to a calibrated sampling column having a graduated cylinder by a gate valve. Above the sampling column is a vacuum port that selectively applies a vacuum to draw a fluid sample from a reservoir. The vacuum can be supplied by an external vacuum pump or by an internal venturi pump. The drawn fluid sample is directed into the cylinder where it separates. A sample of the drawn fluid can be extracted for external analysis. Various valves and fittings route pressures and vacuums and fluid sample as required around and out the portable physical phase stratification and separator device. |
| US09638599B2 |
Circuit carrier for a sensor unit and corresponding sensor unit
A circuit carrier for a sensor unit comprises a first interface via which at least one electrical output signal is tapped at least at one connection point of a measuring cell, a second interface via which the at least one electrical output signal of the measuring cell is applied via at least one first contact element to a circuit board with an electronic circuit, and a hollow, cylindrical main body. The main body includes an inner joining geometry defined on an inner contour which defines at least in part the first interface, an outer joining geometry which defines at least in part the second interface, and configured to electrically connect to a connection point of the measuring cell in a force-free manner. The outer joining geometry is configured as a receiving pocket with a protruding collar, and includes the at least one first contact element. |
| US09638598B2 |
Capacitive pressure transducer for measuring the pressure of a medium adjacent to the measuring cell
The invention relates to a capacitive pressure transducer for measuring the pressure of a medium adjacent to the pressure transducer, which has a resilient measuring diaphragm, of which the first side is at least partially in contact with the medium and of which the second side, which faces away from the medium, comprises a measuring electrode and, for measuring a temperature, a resistance element made of a material having a temperature dependent resistance. Furthermore, the pressure transducer has a base body, which is arranged to oppose the second side of the measuring diaphragm, with a counter electrode, which forms a measuring capacitance with the measuring electrode. According to the invention, the resistance element is formed as a resistive layer disposed between the second side of the measuring diaphragm and the measuring electrode. |
| US09638597B2 |
Differential pressure sensor assembly
A differential pressure sensor assembly includes a transducer having a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface. The second sensing surface is contained in a cavity. An Integrated Circuit (IC) is hermetically coupled to the transducer. The IC has a first aperture aligned to the cavity. A lead frame is coupled to the IC. The lead frame has a second aperture aligned to the first aperture of the IC. A package encapsulates the transducer, the IC and the lead frame. The package has a third aperture exposed to the first sensing surface. The package includes a molding compound providing a hermetic seal between the third aperture of the package and the first aperture of the IC. The molding compound is separated from the transducer by an encroachment distance. |
| US09638594B2 |
Displacement detection type six-axis force sensor
A six-axis force sensor including a fixed part; a first movable part; a first connecting part connecting the first movable part to the fixed part in an elastically displaceable manner; a second movable part; a second connecting part connecting the second movable part to the first movable part in an elastically displaceable manner; a first detecting section detecting a displacement of the first movable part relative to the fixed part; and a second detecting section detecting a displacement of the second movable part relative to the first movable part. The six-axis force sensor enables, in a three-axis rectangular coordinate system, a detection of force components in first axis, second axis and third axis directions, and moment components about the first axis, the second axis and the third axis, of a force applied to the second movable part, with reference to detection values of the first and second detecting sections. |
| US09638593B2 |
Sinkhole detection systems and methods
A sinkhole formation detection system includes tension members associated with sensors. The tension members are arranged in a horizontal grid in an overburden, and each of the tension members is under a longitudinal tension. The sensors are each for generating outputs in response to changes in the longitudinal tension of one of the tension members in response to a vertical displacement of the overburden. |
| US09638592B2 |
Differential motion sensor
A differential motion sensor includes a base and a cradle. The base includes a first surface that extends along a first axis to define a length and a second axis to define a width. The base further includes at least one hinge that pivots about a rotational axis extending along the first axis. The cradle is pivotably coupled to the at least one hinge and is configured to move in the direction of the second axis when pivoting about the hinge. The differential motion sensor is configured to operate in a first mode when the cradle is aligned with the base and a second mode when the cradle is pivotably displaced with respect to the base. |
| US09638591B1 |
Display area force sensing using Bragg grating based wave guide sensors
An electronic device includes an input surface area for receiving a force applied by a user and one or more optical waveguides that include Bragg gratings. The optical waveguide or waveguides is operatively affixed to the input surface area. At least one light source is optically coupled to the optical waveguide or waveguides. At least one wavelength interrogator is coupled to the optical waveguide or waveguides. |
| US09638584B2 |
Differential temperature sensor with sensitivity set by current-mirror and resistor ratios without limiting DC bias
A differential on-chip temperature sensor circuit can be implemented in a standard complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) process using PNP transistors. A pair of transistors have collector currents that are sensitive to voltage, both directly and due to saturation currents. A scaling resistor connects to the emitter of one transistor and its voltage compared to the other transistor's emitter voltage by an error amplifier that generates a bias voltage to current sources that are proportional to absolute temperature since the saturation current sensitivity is subtracted out. The current is mirrored to sink current through a multiplier resistor from an output. An amplifier connected across the multiplier resistor compares a reference voltage to set the DC bias independent of temperature sensitivity. The temperature sensitivity is proportional to the ratio of the multiplier resistor and the scaling resistor, and is multiplied by a mirroring factor. A differential output is provided. |
| US09638583B2 |
Virtual data center environmental monitoring system
A virtual temperature monitoring system in a data center communicates with servers mounted in racks to receive internal temperature data generated by internal temperature sensors of the servers. The system derives a virtual sensor measurement of external temperatures external to the server, including a portion of a cold aisle that extends proximate to a rack in which the server is mounted, based upon a relationship between the received internal temperature sensors and the external environment. Sensor data from other sensors can be received via a building management system, and building management signals to the building management system can be generated based at least partially on the virtual sensor data. The virtual sensor data can be used to generate a graphical representation of the servers that highlights relative thermal characteristics of the servers based on the virtual external sensor measurements, including heat indices, excursions beyond thresholds, historical excursion histories, etc. |
| US09638577B2 |
Spectrometer comprising a plurality of diffraction gratings
A spectrometer including: a spectral dispersion mechanism of an initial light beam; and a photodetector. The spectral dispersion mechanism includes at least three reflective diffraction gratings parallel to consecutive sides of a convex polygon, arranged such that a portion of the initial light beam is diffracted once by each diffraction grating in turn and is diffracted at least a second time by at least one of the diffraction gratings. |
| US09638576B2 |
Infrared-sensor filter member, manufacturing method thereof, infrared sensor, and manufacturing method thereof
An infrared-sensor filter member includes an optical filter disposed in an opening portion of a second member and a first member. The infrared-sensor filter member includes a recess portion formed from a light-incident surface of the optical filter and the first member. At least a part of a bottom surface of the recess portion is formed by the light-incident surface and side walls of the recess portion, which are formed by the first member. |
| US09638573B2 |
Method and apparatus for image scanning
A method of estimating an in-focus level of a target in an image scanning apparatus is provided, wherein the image scanning apparatus comprises a first line scan detector configured to obtain one or more image scan lines of the target and a second line scan detector configured to obtain one or more focus scan lines of the target. The method comprises obtaining at least one image scan line of the target using the first line scan detector, each at least one image scan line being obtained at a respective focus level; obtaining at least one focus scan line of the target using the second line scan detector, each at least one focus scan line being obtained at a respective focus level; calculating at least one focus parameter using at least one focus scan line; and estimating a nominal in-focus level of the target using the calculated focus parameter(s). |
| US09638571B2 |
Guide unit for measurement and micro-weight measuring system using same
The present invention relates to a guide unit for measurement acting as a guide for measuring the micro-weight of fine grains having minute weight and volume, such as powders, granules, seeds and pills, and to a micro-weight measuring system for accurately measuring the fine grains by a preset micro-weight by using the guide unit for measurement. The present invention has an effect of being capable of measuring the micro-weight as a unit to thereby package fine grains such as powders, granules, seeds and pills by micro-weight unit. In addition, the present invention has an effect of being capable of accurately measuring the fine grains by the preset micro-weight in such a manner that in the procedure of discharging a one-unit-micro-weight of the fine grains, some of the fine grains are discharged at a smaller amount than the initially-discharged amount and are finally discharged by dropping. |
| US09638570B2 |
Calibration method for capacitance level sensing apparatus and anti-interference method for plural capacitance level sensing apparatuses
A calibration method for a capacitance level sensing apparatus (10) is applied for a tank measurement. A measurement signal generating circuit (102) generates a measurement signal (104) to proceed with the tank measurement. According to a measurement result measured through the measurement signal (104), a sensing circuit (108) transmits a sensing signal (110) to a control unit (112). According to the sensing signal (110), the control unit (112) determines whether the sensing signal (110) is in an effective range or not. If the sensing signal (110) is in the effective range, the control unit (112) sets a total capacitance in accordance with the sensing signal (110) as a measurement base value. If the sensing signal (110) is not in the effective range, the control unit (112) controls the measurement signal generating circuit (102) to adjust a measurement frequency of the measurement signal (104). |
| US09638569B2 |
Liquid level detector
A liquid level detector may comprise an arm attached to a float, a holder fixed to the arm, and a body rotatably supporting the holder. The body may comprise a first rotation regulator and a second rotation regulator. The first rotation regulator may regulate a rotation angle range of the arm to a first range. The second rotation regulator may regulate the rotation angle range of the arm to a second range. The first range and the second range may not overlap each other in a rotation direction of the arm. Each of the plurality of rotation regulators may comprise a pair of stoppers disposed separately from each other in the rotation direction of the arm. At least a part of area between the pair of stoppers of the each of the plurality of rotation regulators may be open to outside of the body. |
| US09638568B2 |
Weight apparatus for a waveguide, probe apparatus, and method for manufacturing a weight apparatus
A weight apparatus for a waveguide has a wave resistance. The weight apparatus includes a weight body having a fixing device. The fixing device is adapted to fix the weight body to the waveguide and has a wave resistance which is substantially adapted to the wave resistance of the waveguide. |
| US09638567B2 |
Radar level gauge with foldable probe
The present invention relates to a guided wave radar level gauge for determining a filling level of a product contained in a tank, said guided wave radar level gauge i.a. comprising a probe comprising a plurality of elongate probe sections each being pivotably connected to an adjacent probe section by means of a joint, said joint allowing probe sections to pivot between an operating state where said probe sections are substantially aligned along a straight line, and a transporting state. The present invention also relates to a probe, and to a method for arranging a guided wave radar level gauge in a tank. |
| US09638564B2 |
Dose measurement system and method
Embodiments described herein generally relate to devices, systems and methods for measuring the dose remaining in a drug delivery device that is used for delivering a dose to a patient. In some embodiments, a dose measurement system for measuring the liquid volume in a container includes a plurality of light sources which are disposed and configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward the container. A plurality of sensors are located in the apparatus that are optically coupleable to the plurality of light sources and are disposed and configured to detect the electromagnetic radiation emitted by at least a portion of the light sources. The apparatus also includes a processing unit configured to receive data representing the portion of the detected electromagnetic radiation from each of the plurality of sensors. The processing unit is further operable to convert the received data into a signature representative of the electromagnetic radiation detected by the plurality of sensors. |
| US09638563B2 |
Device for powdered products
The present invention relates to a device (1) having a tubular shape, comprising a body (2) and at least two extremities (3a, 3b), wherein at least one of these extremities (3a, 3b) has a V-shape (4) and comprises an opening (5) forming an ellipse (6), and wherein the angle α between i) the central and longitudinal axis (7) of the device (1) and ii) the tangential line (8) formed by said V-shape (4) is lower than 10°. |
| US09638562B2 |
Fluid measurement device
A fluid measurement or control device has an outer housing with a corner portion cut out, in which an electric line connection is located and which optionally can be closed with a lid. |
| US09638560B2 |
Calibration method and flow rate measurement method for flow rate controller for gas supply device
In a gas supply device supplying many different gases to a gas use portion through many flow rate controllers, a flow rate controller calibration unit includes a build-up tank with inner volume, an inlet side on-off valve and an outlet side on-off valve V2 of the tank, and a gas pressure detector and a gas temperature detector for gas inside the tank, joined in a branched form to a gas supply line, with the valve V2 connected to vacuum. The calibration unit is used to calibrate a flow rate controller based on performing a first measurement of gas temperature and pressure inside the tank, and then building-up gas into the tank, and then performing a second measurement of gas temperature and pressure, and from respective measured values, calculating gas flow rate Q and by comparing a set gas flow rate and calculated gas flow rate Q, performing flow rate calibration. |
| US09638558B2 |
In situ spacing-correcting heat pulse sensor and method for measuring sap flow or water flux
In situ spacing-correcting heat pulse sensor for measuring sap flow or water flux includes: a holder; a temperature probe or two (sometimes there will be more than two) mounted on the holder; and a heating probe mounted on the holder; wherein two or three thermometric elements are provided axially in the same temperature probe, all the thermometric elements are connected to a data collector, a heating wire is mounted in the heating probe, and the heating wire is connected to a power supply. A measuring method thereof is also provided. In practice, by arranging at least two thermometric elements in each temperature probe, measurement errors of sap flow in plant or soil water flux caused by factors such as deflection of the temperature probe or the heating probe are reduced. Furthermore, the sensor is simple in structure, low in cost, convenient in utilization, and accurate in measurement. |
| US09638557B2 |
Ultrasonic flowmeter having an arithmetic operation unit for calculating propagation time correction value
A flow meter device includes: a first vibrator, a second vibrator, a control unit, a timekeeper, and an arithmetic operation unit. The arithmetic operation unit is configured to: determine whether or not a time difference between a propagation time in the forward direction and a propagation time in the reverse direction is less than a predetermined value; calculate a propagation time correction amount based on the time difference if it is determined that the time difference is less than the predetermined value; and calculate a flow rate of the fluid by using the propagation time correction amount. |
| US09638554B2 |
Strain gauge holder
The strain gauge holder 1 includes a holder body 10 on a side surface of a pipe 3, a gauge pressing member 21 for pressing a strain gauge 2 against the side surface of the pipe, and a feed mechanism for giving a pressing force to the gauge pressing member. The guide grooves 12 guide the gauge pressing members. The feed mechanism feeds the gauge pressing member in the guide groove to press the strain gauge 2 against the side surface of the pipe 3. The feed mechanism includes cylindrical portion 32a, bushing 32, and feed screw 31. Each of the feed screws 31 threadedly inserted into the bushing mounted on the holder body is threadedly inserted to feed the gauge pressing member. |
| US09638551B2 |
Pointing device and meter apparatus provided with the same
A pointing device includes a pointer having light guiding properties, a cap that is attached to the pointer and has light blocking properties, a pointing shaft that is vertically formed on a proximal end portion of the pointer, and a light blocking member. The light blocking member includes a cylindrical main body having both end portions for inserting the pointing shaft and a rotary shaft of a motor having light guiding properties respectively thereinto to prevent illuminating light propagating through the rotary shaft from a light source and entering the pointing shaft from leaking from an outer peripheral surface of the pointing shaft. |
| US09638550B2 |
Encoder and sensor system having plural sensors and encoder elements for determining relative positions
System for determining relative positions comprising an encoder having encoder elements, and a sensor unit having a first sensor and at least one second sensor. The sensor unit and the encoder are movable relative to one another and their position relative to one another is determinable by the system. The first sensor and second sensor have a sensor distance with respect to one another. The sensor furthermore has a component composed of a dimensionally stable and aging-resistant material having a coefficient of thermal expansion which, in terms of absolute value, is in a range of 0 to 5·10−6K−1. The sensor distance is determinable highly precisely by the component by virtue of the component serving for the positional fixing of the sensors or by virtue of the component having a scale with the aid of which the sensor distance can be measured. |
| US09638546B2 |
Corrosion resistant pressure transducer
A pressure transducer is disclosed wherein no wetted areas have been welded. A cavity is milled into the back of each of the blocks of a material which will make up the body of the transducer. Pickup coils are placed into these cavities and are held in place generally with epoxy cement. With the coils mounted within the sensor body, the surface which will be exposed to the sample or reference fluids is comprised of a single, solid material with no welding joints. Further, as the sensor block half is made of a single, solid material, fluid fitting connections may be machined directly into the body. The pickup coil placed within the improved sensor body may be wound on an open frame of nickel superalloy (NiSA). Another embodiment involves coating or encapsulating the sensing membrane within a soft, non-magnetic material protecting it from corrosion. |
| US09638545B2 |
Power management apparatus, power management system and power management method
In the present invention, a power monitoring unit (330) estimates the integral power consumption on the basis of an obtained actual value or amount of change of power consumption. When the estimated value for the integral power consumption as estimated by the power monitoring unit (330) reaches a prescribed amount of power, a presentation unit (204) presents a warning, on the basis of the power values obtained by a load power meter (340), indicating a list of loads for which the power consumption should be controlled. |
| US09638543B2 |
Rate-of-turn bias estimation for marine navigation
An example includes a method to estimate a bias affecting an inertial sensor. The method can include monitoring a plurality of rate-of-turn samples, from the inertial sensor, in a sequence over time, wherein each of the plurality of rate-of-turn samples includes substantially the same actual bias value that is included in each of the plurality of other rate-of-turn samples. The method can include estimating the bias as a weighted average of the plurality of rate-of-turn samples. The method can include determining an adjusted rate-of-turn sample by subtracting the bias from an instant rate-of-turn sample of the plurality of rate-of-turn samples. The method can include putting out the adjusted rate-of-turn. |
| US09638541B2 |
Method for calculating paths, method for obtaining paths as well as terminal for same
The present invention relates to a method for calculating trip paths determined by a departure point and a target point by using traffic information in a terminal. The method includes the steps of: requesting traffic information related to a trip from a server; receiving the traffic information related to the trip from the server; and calculating the paths by using the received traffic information, wherein the received traffic information includes traffic events corresponding to information on disturbances in the traffic flow in an area or the path related to the trip, and performance parameters corresponding to information on traffic flow in a road segment within a constant radius from the departure point, and wherein the performance parameters can be received from the server in the case where there is congestion heavier than a predetermined level within a constant radius from the departure point. |
| US09638539B2 |
Navigation methods and apparatus
A method of operating a navigation apparatus is provided. A calculated route is shown on a map display of the apparatus together with a current position indication. In one embodiment, a maximum map scale is determined which will result in a representation of the entire remainder of the route being shown within a visible map display area during travel along the route. In another embodiment, a map scale is set, and the map display is then controlled to maximize the amount of the remainder of the route which is shown within a visible map display area for the given map scale during travel along the route. |
| US09638535B2 |
Dynamic destination navigation system
The claimed subject matter provides a method for navigating to dynamic destinations. The method includes associating a leader mobile device with a follower mobile device. The method also includes displaying, on the follower mobile device, a first path from a follower vehicle to a first location of a leader vehicle. The follower vehicle is associated with the follower mobile device. The leader vehicle is associated with the leader mobile device. The method further includes displaying, on the follower mobile device, a second path from the follower vehicle to a second location of the leader vehicle. |
| US09638533B2 |
Geographic space management
At least one subsystem among the plurality of subsystems includes a managing section operable to manage individual event information for events occurring in a management target region of the at least one subsystem among the plurality of regions and adjacent event information for events occurring in a partial range from a boundary of the management target region among routes in an adjacent region that is adjacent to the management target region, and an event selecting section operable to select events about which the moving object is to be informed, from the individual event information and the adjacent event information managed by the at least one subsystem. Also provided is a method and computer program product. |
| US09638530B2 |
System and method for distribution of 3D sound
A method and system for distribution of 3D sound in a vehicle comprising two speakers arranged spaced apart in close vicinity of a head of a vehicle operator. The vehicle operator can look in multiple directions, and the system for distribution of 3D sound comprises means to determine at least one of angle and gaze direction of the head of the vehicle operator. Furthermore, the distribution of the 3D sound is based on the determined angle or gaze direction of the head of the vehicle operator. |
| US09638529B2 |
Vehicle orientation detection method and vehicle orientation detection apparatus
In this vehicle orientation detection method detecting the orientation of a vehicle on the basis of measurement data obtained at prescribed time intervals, as long as a speed sensed by a vehicle speed sensor is less than a threshold speed, the vehicle orientation is detected on the basis of a yaw rate sensed by a yaw rate sensor. If the speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor is greater than or equal to the threshold speed, a drift determination is performed. If not determined to be in a drift state, the vehicle orientation is detected on the basis of signals received by a GPS receiver, and if determined to be in a drift state, the vehicle orientation is detected on the basis of the yaw rate sensed by the yaw rate sensor. |
| US09638527B2 |
Technique for signalling telephone calls during a route guidance
The present disclosure relates to a technique for controlling the signalling of incoming telephone calls during a route guidance by means of a navigation device. A method aspect includes the steps of detecting an incoming telephone call, determining a distance to a forthcoming maneuver instruction or route reference point on a predetermined route in response to the detected telephone call, and delaying the incoming telephone call until a maneuver instruction has been output if the determined distance to the forthcoming maneuver instruction or route reference point falls short of a predetermined threshold value. |
| US09638525B1 |
Systems and methods for monitoring positioning of a machine by utilizing a virtual IMU
A system for monitoring positioning of a machine is disclosed. The system includes an IMU located at a first location on the machine and configured to generate positioning data associated with the first location. The system includes a machine controller operatively associated with the machine. The machine controller is configured to determine predicted positioning data for a second location on the machine based on positioning data associated with the first location. The machine controller is further configured to generate a virtual IMU at the second location based on the predicted positioning data for the second location, wherein the virtual IMU generates virtual positioning data for the second location. The system further includes an application controller operatively associated with the machine controller and configured to use the virtual positioning data as input data for one or more machine-associated applications. |
| US09638524B2 |
Chip level sensor with multiple degrees of freedom
A sensing assembly device includes a substrate, a chamber above the substrate, a first piezoelectric gyroscope sensor positioned within the chamber, and a first accelerometer positioned within the chamber. |
| US09638522B2 |
Total station having scanning functionality and selectable scanning modes
A total station including an electro-optical distance measuring unit and a scanning functionality is disclosed. The total station may include an analysis unit for analysis of the registered measuring signal data and conversion thereof into scanning points for a point cloud, whereby a point cloud having the scanning points can be generated. The distance measuring unit may be configured in such a manner that the distance measurement can be carried out by means of runtime measurement and/or waveform digitizing (WFD). In addition, the total station may have a program storage unit which may provide at least two scanning modes, wherein the at least two scanning modes differ at least in a measuring rate such as, for example, in the number of scanning points per unit of time. |
| US09638514B2 |
Optical position-measuring device
An optical position-measuring device senses a relative position of two objects. A reflection material measure is connected to one object and a scanning unit is connected to the other object. A beam is split into three sub-beams in a first splitting plane by a first splitting element. The first and third sub-beams are deflected toward the reflection material measure by the deflecting elements, while the second sub-beam is split into fourth and fifth sub-beams by a second splitting element. The first and fourth sub-beams propagate as a first pair of superimposed sub-beams and the third and fifth sub-beams propagate as a second pair of superimposed sub-beams. The first and second pairs of superimposed sub-beams, after being reflected by the reflection material measure, propagate respectively toward detectors, where the sub-beams in each pair are brought into interfering superposition, so that the detectors detect displacement-dependent scanning signals. |
| US09638513B2 |
Device and method for the interferometric measuring of an object
A device for the interferometric measuring of an object, including a radiation source for generating an output beam, at least one beam splitter, as well as at least one detector, with the beam splitter being arranged in the radiation path of the output beam such that the output beam is split into at least one measuring beam and one reference beam, and the device is embodied to interfere the reference beam on the detector with an interference beam to form an optic interference. The device has an open optic resonator, which is arranged in the radiation path of the device such that the measuring beam enters the open optic resonator and the interference beam emitted from the open optic resonator is interfered with a reference beam on the detector to form an optic interference. The invention further relates to a method for the interferometric measuring of an object. |
| US09638512B2 |
Handheld dimensioning system with feedback
A handheld dimensioning system that analyzes a depth map for null-data pixels to provide feedback is disclosed. Null-data pixels correspond to missing range data and having too many in a depth map may lead to dimensioning errors. Providing feedback based on the number of null-data pixels helps a user understand and adapt to different dimensioning conditions, promotes accuracy, and facilitates handheld applications. |
| US09638511B2 |
Smart phone attachment for 3-D optical coherence tomography imaging
Methods and apparatus for tomographic imaging of a sample. Low-coherence light is split into a sample path and a reference path. A steering optic recombines light in the reference path with light scattered by a sample onto a camera having an areal focal plane array of detector elements such that light in the reference path and light scattered by the sample are characterized by respectively offset propagation vectors at incidence upon the camera. A processor derives depth information from light scattered by the sample on the basis of interference fringes between light in the reference path and light scattered by the sample. The apparatus tracks lateral motion and may be hand-held or attached to a mobile device such as a smartphone, thus enabling 3-D imaging with the mobile device. |
| US09638507B2 |
Measurement machine utilizing a barcode to identify an inspection plan for an object
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a measurement machine for measuring an object, and more particularly to a measurement machine such as a portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machine or a laser tracker that measures an object according to a measurement or inspection plan that is identified by a machine readable information symbol located on the object to be measured or on a drawing (e.g., a CAD drawing) of the object. |
| US09638505B2 |
Systems for delivering explosives and methods related thereto
Systems for delivering explosives with variable densities are disclosed herein. Methods of delivering explosives with variable densities and methods of varying the energy of explosives in a blasthole are disclosed herein. |
| US09638504B1 |
Warhead fuse
A warhead fuse mechanism is used to prevent an accidental explosive event of a warhead by separating the booster lead into a plurality of booster lead segments, with each of the individual booster lead segments having a diameter less than the failure diameter of the booster lead explosive. A separating device separates the booster lead segments from each other to maintain the failure diameter until detonation is desired. |
| US09638503B1 |
Dual safety fuze for grenade
A hand grenade fuze includes a secondary safety feature in the form of a trigger pin inserted through the striker lever. One end of the trigger pin has an undercut portion. A slide bar is disposed in the fuze body and has a keyhole opening at one end for selectively engaging the undercut portion of the trigger pin. A trigger has one end connected to the slide bar and another end rotatably fixed to the fuze body. A spring biases the trigger away from the fuze body. When the trigger is depressed, the slide bar translates and releases the trigger pin, which releases the restraint on the striker lever. |
| US09638502B1 |
Pulse error correction for spinning vehicles
Apparatus and methods for pulse error correction are disclosed. The apparatus may include a spinning vehicle having a plurality of antennas for generating pulse signals indicative of the rotational orientation of the spinning vehicle. The apparatus may utilize anti-jamming to detect and nullify a jamming signal. The apparatus may apply pulse error correction to correct inaccuracies in the pulse signals indicative of the rotational orientation of the spinning vehicle. More specifically, positional information of a source of the jamming signal relative to the spinning vehicle and positional information of a satellite relative to the spinning vehicle may be determined and utilized to calculate a rotational orientation correction. |
| US09638501B2 |
Target assignment projectile
A projectile includes an ordnance portion configured to impact a target and a communication apparatus positioned rearward of the ordnance portion. The projectile is configured to rotate about and travel along a longitudinal axis after launch. |
| US09638499B2 |
Insert/outsert assembly for an arrow
An insert/outsert assembly for an arrow. The insert includes a cylindrical body having first and second ends. The second end of the insert is dimensioned to fit within the bore of an arrow shaft. The first end includes a prong containing male threads. The outsert includes a cylindrical wall with an arrowshaft end and an arrowhead end. A center bore extends between the arrowshaft and arrowhead ends. The center bore contains a threaded region with female threads located intermediate of the arrowhead end and arrowshaft end. The insert is threadedly connected to the outsert. An arrowhead is threadedly connected to the outsert. |
| US09638497B2 |
Improvised explosive device defeat system
A robot system (50) includes a control system (101) having a control interface grip (102). The robot system includes a macro robotic arm (54) and a micro robotic arm (60). The robot system is arranged such that the macro robotic arm will respond, in a first control system state, to movement of the control interface grip. In particular, the macro robotic arm will move in a plurality of directions responsive to corresponding movement of the interface grip. The micro robotic arm will respond, in a second control system state, to movement of the control interface grip. In particular, the micro robotic arm will move in a plurality of directions responsive to corresponding movement of the interface grip. |
| US09638490B1 |
Pneumatic firing device
A pneumatic firing device includes a rear section engaging a cylinder, a solenoid valve engaging the rear section from under, an adjusting element disposed inside the rear section, a piston disposed inside the cylinder to form a first chamber and a second chamber, an airflow guiding element engaging the cylinder at the front thereof, a moving rod having a tail end engaging the piston and a front end stretching through the cylinder into the airflow guiding element for controlling the operation of the airflow guiding element, and a front section engaging the front of the airflow guiding element. The solenoid valve holds control of the operation of a pressure release channel to change the pressure difference between the first and second chamber, making the pressured air entering a first passage from a first guiding hole of the airflow guiding element, pushing the delivery tube to a firing position, flowing into a second passage from a second guiding hole, and then firing a pellet with strong airflow. |
| US09638485B2 |
Trigger mechanism for a firearm
A trigger mechanism for a firearm provides modified and/or adjustable trigger pull length, reduced sear pressure, reduced reset trigger slap, and/or improved engagement of the trigger safety. |
| US09638483B1 |
Ammunition magazine for reciprocally-cycled weapon
An ammunition magazine is used with a reciprocally-cycled weapon for delinking and firing cartridges in close-end linked ammunition belts. The magazine includes a housing with an ammunition indexing mechanism fixed to one side of the housing. A magazine feed box is disposed above the ammunition indexing mechanism. The magazine feed box includes a movable follower having an upper and a lower position and cam pins that engage cam slots in the magazine feed box. The movable follower is configured to receive a cartridge from the weapon. |
| US09638482B2 |
Digital detector
The present disclosure provides a digital detector apparatus for use with a sensor unit is provided wherein the sensor unit includes an emitter device and a receiver device, the receiver device having a capacitance. The digital detector apparatus comprises at least a first input port, first output port, and a second output port; and an A/D converter circuit wherein an input of the A/D converter circuit is coupled to the first input port for receiving an output of the receiver device; wherein the first output port of the digital detector apparatus is coupled for charging and discharging the capacitance of the receiver device; the second output port of the digital detector apparatus is coupled for driving the emitter device; and the A/D converter circuit derives a sensor output value from the output of the receiver device during a number of charging and discharging cycles. A digital smoke detector and a method of generating an output signal in a digital detector are also provided. |
| US09638480B1 |
System and method for cooling vehicle computing device
A vehicle computer is programmed to determine an expected thermal load for an autonomous driving compute cluster and a target temperature for the compute cluster under the expected thermal load. Based on a comparison of a current temperature of the compute cluster to an ambient temperature, the vehicle computer is further programmed to operate a switching valve in a first coolant path to open the path to one of a radiator portion and a condenser portion and operate, with the path open to the condenser portion, a pump in the first coolant path and a condenser in a second coolant path at speeds respectively based on at least one of the expected thermal load and the target temperature. |
| US09638478B2 |
Heat exchanger for cooling bulk solids
A heat exchanger comprises a housing that includes an inlet for receiving bulk solids having a first temperature, and an outlet for discharging the bulk solids. A plurality of spaced apart, substantially parallel heat transfer tubes are disposed within the housing between the inlet and the outlet, for cooling the bulk solids that flow from the inlet into spaces between heat transfer tubes, to a second intermediate temperature, and a plurality of spaced apart, substantially parallel heat transfer plate assemblies disposed within the housing and interposed between the plurality of heat transfer tubes and the outlet for further cooling the bulk solids that flow from the spaces between heat transfer tubes, to spaces between heat transfer plate assemblies and to the outlet, to a third temperature. |
| US09638476B2 |
Plate-shaped heat exchanger for a cooling device comprising at least one heart exchanger package
The invention relates to a plate-shaped heat exchanger for a cooling device comprising at least one heat exchanger package, in particular for a motor vehicle, consisting of a plurality of openings for accommodating a pipe conducting a coolant, wherein each opening is surrounded by an passage and a plurality of projections are distributed between the passages for the heat exchange with the medium to be cooled. In order to allow a high performance increase of a cooling device, yet a low increase in pressure loss of the charge air, a plurality of projections are arranged around an passage, wherein the projections have a shape that assures deliberate heat conduction from the projections to the passage. |
| US09638475B2 |
Heat exchanger and battery unit structure for cooling thermally conductive batteries
A heat exchanger and battery unit structure is provided for cooling battery units (or cells) where the thermally conductive nature of the battery forms a cooling path. The heat exchanger is in the form of a cooling element provided with an engaging device formed on or attached to an outer surface of the cooling plate for receiving and/or engaging with a corresponding engaging portion on a battery unit (or cell). The interconnection between the battery unit (or cell) and heat exchanger creates a mechanical interlock between the two components that results in improved heat transfer properties between the two components. |
| US09638469B2 |
Condenser, multistage pressure condenser provided therewith, and reheating module used in condenser
This low-pressure condenser is provided with: a pressure bulkhead which partitions the inside of the container into an upper space and a lower space; a heat transfer tube which is arranged in the upper space; and a reheater which is arranged in the lower space and which, by means of high-temperature steam flowing from the outside into the lower space, heats water which condenses in the upper space and flows into the lower space. The reheater includes multiple partition members, a receiving plate which receives water flowing downward via the partition members, and a dam which is connected to the outer peripheral edge of the receiving plate. The lower ends of the multiple partition members are below the upper end of the dam. |
| US09638462B2 |
Method for producing a C3+ hydrocarbon-rich fraction and a methane- and ethane-rich stream from a hydrocarbon-rich feed stream, and related facility
The method according to the invention comprises the separation of a feed stream (16) into a first fraction (60) and a second fraction (62) and the injection of at least part of the second fraction (62) into a second dynamic expansion turbine (46) to form a second expanded fraction (80).It comprises the cooling of the second expanded fraction (80) through heat exchange with at least part of the first headstream (84) coming from a first column (28) and the formation of a second feed stream (82) of the first column (28) from the second cooled expanded fraction. |
| US09638461B2 |
Method for operating a refrigerator appliance
Refrigerator appliances and methods for operating refrigerator appliances are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes detecting a user's presence, associating the user's presence with a heated beverage preference, and initiating heating of a liquid stored in the refrigerator appliance. The detecting step, the associating step and the initiating step are performed by a controller of the refrigerator appliance. |
| US09638460B2 |
Refrigerator with camera and control thereof
A refrigerator includes a storage compartment formed in a cabinet of the refrigerator by a fixed insulation wall, the storage compartment being provided with an access opening. The refrigerator also includes a door rotatably provided to the cabinet to open and close the access opening, a drawer provided in the storage compartment, a camera fixed to a ceiling of the storage compartment to photograph both a first region for storing of food arranged in an external space of the drawer and a second region for storing of food arranged in an internal space of the drawer, and a controller configured to separate, through a capturing time of a picture containing both the first region and the second region, a first region picture and a second region picture from the picture to individually divide and store the first region picture and the second region picture. |
| US09638458B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator may include a cabinet defined with a storage chamber therein, and a shelf assembly mounted in the storage chamber provided with a vertically movable shelf. The shelf assembly includes a guide member mounted in the storage chamber while having guide slots inclinedly formed at side walls of the guide member. The shelf is supported by the guide member to be vertically movable. Guide protrusions are provided at opposite lateral ends of the shelf to protrude laterally and are supported by the guide slots in a state of being slidably engaged in the guide slots. The guide slots have bent upper ends forming upper seats to support the guide protrusions. Each upper seat is formed such that a straight vertical line extending downwards from a center of the upper seat passes through a center of a lower seat formed at the corresponding guide slot. |
| US09638455B2 |
Refrigerator and method for operating the same
A refrigerator including an evaporator to carry out heat exchange, a frost sensing unit to sense an amount of frost formed on the frost sensing unit, and a heater to be operated for removing the frost from the frost sensing unit is provided. The heater is operated in at least a portion of a defrosting section. Methods for operating the refrigerator are also provided. |
| US09638450B2 |
Ice making system
An ice making system for a refrigerator, comprises: a base member; an icemaker mounted to a front surface of the base member for making ice pieces; a driving unit mounted to a rear surface of the base member such that a motor shaft thereof is in a horizontal state; an ice bank horizontally inserted into the base member in a detachable manner, for storing the ice pieces made by the icemaker; a detachable mounting unit for detachably mounting the ice bank to the base member; and an ice crusher assembly provided at the ice bank so as to be connected to or separated from the driving unit, for crushing the ice pieces. Since the ice bank has only to be horizontally pushed into the base member for coupling, or horizontally pulled out of the base member for separation, processes for coupling or separating the ice bank to/from the base member are facilitated. This prevents the ice pieces stored in the ice bank from being discharged out of the ice bank. |
| US09638449B2 |
On-line energy consumption optimization adaptive to environmental condition
An appliance includes an appliance housing, an interface adapted to receive power information, a plurality of sensors for sensing environmental conditions, a plurality of controls for controlling operations of the appliance, and an intelligent control. The intelligent control is disposed within the appliance housing and operatively connected to the interface and the plurality of sensors and adapted to dynamically select control values associated with the plurality of controls based on at least one of the power information, the environmental conditions, or a combination thereof to increase energy efficiency of the appliance. |
| US09638448B2 |
Refrigerant cycle system
A refrigeration cycle system is capable of reducing an amount of information required to be specified in advance, reducing a computational processing load, reflecting differences in actual installation conditions, and speeding up stabilization of an operational state in which the total amount of required input energy is reduced. A refrigeration cycle system is provided with a plurality of actuators, including outdoor fan motors, compressors, indoor fan motors, and the like for causing a refrigerant circuit to carry out a refrigeration cycle. A control unit obtains the slope at the current evaporation temperature and/or the current condensing temperature on a graph of the function between the actuators and the evaporation temperature or the condensing temperature, and updates the value of the target evaporation temperature and/or the target condensing temperature so that the sum of the input energy to the actuators is less that the current level. |
| US09638446B2 |
Method to detect low charge levels in a refrigeration circuit
A method to detect the charge level of a refrigerant within a refrigeration circuit, where the refrigeration circuit has a compressor, a sensor to detect a pressure, and a sensor to detect a temperature. The method has a key cycle that has a first part and a second part. |
| US09638445B2 |
Oil return management in a HVAC system
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are described to help manage oil return such as in a chiller system of a HVAC system. A refrigerant/oil mixture can be directed out of the evaporator into an oil return heat exchanger that is configured to help vaporize a refrigerant portion of the refrigerant/oil mixture. Superheat refrigerant vapor can be directed from a condenser into the oil return heat exchanger as the heat energy to vaporize the refrigerant portion in the refrigerant/oil mixture. The oil return heat exchanger can be positioned lower than the evaporator so that gravity can help the refrigerant/oil mixture to flow into the oil return heat exchanger. |
| US09638444B2 |
Filter less A/C system
A low temperature Freon, where indoor air in an air handling unit goes through an indoor coil. Do to the fact that indoor coil fins' surface temperature is below freezing, ice will build up on surfaces of the fins, icy/wet surfaces will catch foreign substances from the air. Air in the center of indoor coil is passing through without cooling the indoor air.Mixture of the cooled and the by passed air are resulting pleasant and clean indoor air. Temperature sensors installed on surfaces of indoor coils opens and closes according to set temperature, turning blower motor on and off. |
| US09638443B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus
An air-conditioning apparatus is capable of suppressing refrigerant flow noise regardless the refrigerant state of an inlet of an expansion mechanism. In parallel to a flow control valve, an opening and closing valve that opens and closes a refrigerant passage and an expansion mechanism having porous bodies capable of passing a refrigerant therethrough are connected in series with each other. In a heating mode, in the case where a controller stops an operation of one or more of a plurality of indoor units and causes the other indoor unit(s) to operate, the flow control valve of the stopped indoor unit is fully closed and the opening and closing valve of the stopped indoor unit is opened. |
| US09638442B2 |
Medical, topper, pet wireless, and automated manufacturing of distributed thermoelectric heating and cooling
A thermoelectric device comprising an elongated panel, formed of a thermally insulating material, and having a plurality of thermoelectric elements comprising compacted conductors inside the insulating material and expanded conductors outside the insulating material is combined with other layers for leakage current interception, bodily fluid absorption, and pillars that preserve pressure re-distribution. The thermoelectric device may be integrated into a variety of surfaces or enclosures needing heating or cooling and manufactured using pre-existing automated equipment. |
| US09638432B2 |
Ventilation unit calibration apparatus, system and method
A ventilation unit for installation in a ventilation system. The ventilation unit can include a motor coupled to a fan element and a power source. The ventilation unit can also include a calibration module having one of a voltage and current regulator for adjusting the performance of the ventilation unit based on at least one characteristic of the ventilation system. |
| US09638429B2 |
Method and system for controlling the temperature of an indoor space
A method for automatically operating a heating system includes operating a thermostat at a set point having a default set point value, automatically receiving an indoor temperature signal from an indoor temperature sensor, automatically receiving an outdoor weather indicator signal representing a measured or predicted outdoor weather condition, based on the outdoor weather indicator signal, determining a factor affecting heat flow out of water pipes adjacent to an indoor space, comparing the factor affecting heat flow to a pre-determined freeze protection point, based on the comparison, determining whether to maintain the set point at the default set point or to raise the set point to a computed set point higher than the default set point, and using the thermostat to automatically control the heating system. |
| US09638426B2 |
Safety burner system with automatic shut-off
A gas burner safety system comprises dual sensor arrays, the first array positioned proximal to the gas burner and the second array positioned proximal to a control used to turn on and of and regulate the flame of the gas burner. The first array senses the flame components such that a flame signature is obtained when no object is placed on or above the flame and a flame image is obtained when an object is proximal to the flame. By comparing the flame signature and the flame image, a central control unit operatively connected to the sensor arrays can determine the presence or absence of an object proximal to the flame. The second sensor array is positioned to detect a human hand proximal to the control. In operation, if the flame image matches the flame signature and a human hand is not detected proximal to the control, the central control unit turns off the gas burner by causing the closure of a valve in the gas supply line to the gas burner. |
| US09638425B2 |
Cartridge-type gas grill
A structure which performs safety operation with certainty when a gas container is replaced or when an abnormality occurs and is easy to used is provided. A cartridge-type gas grill 11 having a plurality of systems includes two gas container accommodation sections 12; two burners 13; and gas flow paths for connecting the gas container accommodation sections 12and the burners 13 in a one-to-one relationship. All the gas container accommodation sections 12 are each provided with a container attachment switch 19 for detecting that a gas container 15 is connected. Open/close valves 18, provided in the gas flow paths, for adjusting a gas flow are each formed of an electromagnetic valve. Operation knobs 63 each for making an operation on the corresponding open/close valve 18 are each provided with an ignition switch 20, which is turned ON when the corresponding open/close valve 18 is opened and is turned OFF when the corresponding open/close valve 18 is closed. The container attachment switches 19, the open/close valves 18, and the ignition switches 20 are electronically controlled. For an ignition process, the ignition switches are validated under the condition that all the container attachment switches 19 are ON. For a recovery process, all the ignition switches 19 need to be turned OFF. |
| US09638415B2 |
Method for transportation and agitation of refinery solids waste
A method of transporting solid refinery waste includes loading solid refinery waste into a mobile tank having at least one sloped floor wall and a plurality of compartments separated by at least one buffer. The method may also include maintaining a head space between a top level of the solid refinery waste and a top wall of the mobile tank. The method may also include delivering the mobile tank to a burning facility that maintains a reserve of diluent and that is equipped with an agitator configured for lowering into the mobile tank through a manhole opening, to thereby permit the diluent to be conveyed into the headspace and mixed with the solid refinery waste, thereby enabling a resulting mixture to be off-loaded for burning at the burning facility. |
| US09638412B2 |
Optimised method and device loop combustion on liquid hydrocarbon feedstock
The invention relates to a device and to an improved method for chemical looping combustion of at least one liquid hydrocarbon feed, comprising: mixing the liquid feed with an atomization gas so as to feed it into a metal oxide particle transport zone (2), upstream from combustion zone (3), through atomization means (6) allowing to form finely dispersed liquid droplets in the atomization gas; vaporization of the liquid feed in form of droplets into contact with at least part of metal oxide particles in transport zone (2), the operating conditions in transport zone (2) being so selected that the superficial gas velocity after vaporization of the liquid feed is higher than the transport velocity of the metal oxide particles; sending all of the effluents from transport zone (2) to a combustion zone (3) allowing reduction of the metal oxide particles, said combustion zone (3) comprising at least one dense-phase fluidized bed. The invention can be advantageously applied to CO2 capture and energy production. |
| US09638409B2 |
LED lamp
An LED lamp comprising: an LED light-emitting module including an LED; an lens module provided in front of the LED light-emitting module; a casing accommodating the LED light-emitting module and having a sectional area decreasing toward a base located on a back portion of the LED lamp; and a heat sink configuring at least part of the casing and dissipating heat emitted by the LED. |
| US09638406B1 |
Energy-saving device of surgical light
A energy-saving device of surgical light includes a suspension or support system; a light head carried on the suspension or support system and includes a housing, a grip mounted to the housing for hand holding and moving the light head, multiple light clusters mounted in the housing and each including at least one light source, and multiple detection pairs mounted in the housing and each including an emitter and a receiver, in which the emitter transmits a signal that is reflected by an external object to the receiver to detect the external object at a specific site and a specific distance from the light head; a light source driver operable to drive the light clusters according to the detection result of the detection pairs; and an operation interface connected to the light source driver and configured for energy saving modes of fixed light intensity and compensation light intensity. |
| US09638405B2 |
Adjustable photocontrol mounting assembly
An assembly for connecting and holding a photocontrol with respect to a light fixture. The assembly includes a support member and a photocontrol receptacle over and secured with respect to the support member. The support member is on an exterior surface of a light-fixture housing at an opening formed in the housing. The photocontrol receptacle is rotatable about the support member for angular photocontrol adjustment on the light fixture. The support member is fixed with respect to the exterior surface of the light-fixture housing. The receptacle has an engagement portion rotatably engaging the support member, thereby holding the receptacle with respect to the light-fixture housing while permitting rotation of the receptacle with respect thereto. Another aspect is a related method for connecting and holding a photocontrol with respect to a light fixture. |
| US09638401B2 |
Modular LED lighting systems, including flexible, rigid, and waterproof lighting strips and connectors
Modular lighting systems are provided that comprise lighting strips physically and electrically connectable with one another by way of flexible connectors. The lighting strip devices can be made of flexible or rigid material to allow for applying the lighting devices along flat as well as contoured surfaces and can be waterproof or water resistant. A modular lighting strip system is provided comprising: two or more lighting strips comprising a non-conductive substrate strip with an electrical circuit; a plurality of light sources operably connected to the electrical circuit; a plug or socket at opposing ends of the strip; one or more connectors for providing electrical and physical interconnection of the lighting strips comprising: one or more plug and/or socket and one or more flexible wires interconnecting the plugs or sockets, which are operably configured to provide for side-by-side interconnection of lighting strips. |
| US09638398B2 |
Lighting devices
A lighting device includes a cover portion configured to have a hinged connection for mounting on a housing. The cover portion includes a light emitting diode (LED) and a mixing chamber having a reflective internal surface for receiving light from the LED. A phosphorescent lens is disposed opposite the LED and is configured to reflect light from the LED back to the mixing chamber and to emanate absorbed light from the lens to a surrounding region outside of the mixing chamber. An LED driver circuit is configured to power the LED, the LED driver circuit being electrically connected to a power source. Other embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US09638397B2 |
Lighting apparatus and method for emitting light having different color temperatures
There is provided a lighting apparatus and a method for reducing discomfort glare. The method comprises a step of providing a first portion of light radiation in a first incident angle range; and another step of providing a second portion of light radiation in a second incident angle range consecutive to the first incident angle range. The first incident angle range is greater than the second incident angle range viewed from a vertically downward direction of a light source emitting the light radiation, and the correlated color temperature of the first portion of light radiation is lower than that of the second portion of light radiation. |
| US09638394B2 |
Light emitting diode (LED) lighting system with antimicrobial/air cleaning functions from highly specular multilayer thin film reflector
A system and method according to various embodiments can include a lighting fixture comprising a light source. A multilayer thin film coated reflector is applied to an outer light emitting surface of the lighting fixture. A top layer of the multilayer thin film coated reflector comprises a material including an anatase TiO crystal structure that exhibits antimicrobial properties when activated by the light source. |
| US09638392B2 |
Lamp optic for use in LED-based lamp
A lamp optic (100) for a lamp includes a proximal end (104), a distal end (106) and a longitudinal axis (L). The proximal end (104) has a proximal inner side wall (112) linearly extending toward the distal end (106) and intersecting a proximal flat portion (114). The distal end (106) has a distal inner side wall (120) linearly extending toward the proximal end (104) and intersecting a distal flat portion (122). The distal flat portion length (LD) is at least 25 percent of the proximal flat portion length (LP). A lateral side (108) extends from the proximal end (104) to the distal end (106). The lateral side (108) has a first skirt region (124) and a second skirt region (126). The first skirt region (124) and the second skirt region (126) extend linearly and successively from the proximal end (104) to the distal end (106). |
| US09638390B2 |
Axially symmetric LED light bulb
An axially symmetric LED light bulb includes a lamp shade, a substrate and a connecting seat. The substrate installed on the connecting seat includes plural LED light sources. The lamp shade has an edge connected to the connecting seat, and the substrate is covered inside the lamp shade. The lamp shade has an unequal thickness with a thicker top and thinner sides. The axially symmetric LED light bulb provides excellent light uniformity and wide-angle illumination. |
| US09638387B2 |
Lighting units for road users
A lighting unit (85) for use by a vulnerable road user such as a cyclist, the lighting unit being intended for use as a front light or a rear light, wherein the lighting unit displays a symbol or word that identifies the category of vulnerable road user. It may incorporate two distinct lights: one which is set to achieve light delivery comparable to current standard white front and red rear bike lights, whilst the other is the symbol or word display. The symbol or word display is designed to increase driver recognition, to improve driver reaction time, and to prime appropriate driving behaviour. For example the lighting unit (95) may be a rear light or a front light for a bicycle (10), arranged to display (80) the word BIKE or a symbol of a cyclist on a bicycle. The lighting unit (95) may also include a light source (103) with an external focusing lens. |
| US09638385B2 |
Head lamp in vehicle
A head lamp in a vehicle may include a light source for emitting a light, a reflector for reflecting the light forward from the light source, a lens for transmitting the light being forwarded toward a front from the light source and the reflector, a holder having one end coupled to the lens and the other end coupled to the reflector to make the lens spaced at a predetermined distance from the reflector, and a movable shield disposed between the light source and the reflector and the lens for selectively shielding a portion of the light being forwarded toward the lens from the light source and the reflector, or not shielding the portion of the light being forwarded toward the lens from the light source and the reflector when being moved to create a space between the movable shield and a lower end of the holder to allow the light pass through. |
| US09638382B2 |
LED modules with ball joint adjustable support
A modular assembly for a headlight includes at least one semiconductor light module having at least one semiconductor light source mounted on a cooling element, having at least one ball socket in which the semiconductor light module is mounted and configured to be pivoted about a ball socket center, a curved cup formed in the cooling element and configured to be mounted in the ball socket, and a guide shell arranged between the curved cup and the ball socket. A method for adjusting the semiconductor light module is also disclosed. |
| US09638380B2 |
Bendable LED strip
The invention relates to a flexible LED strip, comprising modules that include light-emitting diodes (3) arranged successively at intervals, in particular equal intervals longitudinally, wherein the light-emitting diodes (3) of each module are electrically interconnected on one circuit board (2) each, in particular together with other electronic modules (4), and the LED strip can be severed between the modules, in particular without destroying the electrical functionality of the modules, wherein each module has at least one contact region at which a power supply can be connected to the module and all circuit-board sections (2) are mounted in a flexible enclosure (1), wherein the at least one contact region of each module extends through the enclosure (1) and can be electrically contacted outside the enclosure (1). The invention furthermore relates to an end piece (7), a coupling piece (8), and a connector piece for power-supply lines (6) or control-signal lines (6) of this LED strip. |
| US09638379B2 |
Work lamp with magnetic tray and tools
A lighting device provides a storage tray or cavity. The lighting device includes a head section pivotally connected to a base section via a connection assembly. The head section includes a light source, and the base section includes a storage cavity with a magnetic floor. The connection assembly allows the head section to be variably positioned relative to the base section by pivoting simultaneously about mutually orthogonal axes, one of which is fixed relative to the base section, and the other of which is movable relative to the base section. The lighting device may optionally include removable tools, such as a telescopic pick-up tool, and/or various means for attaching the lighting device to a support. |
| US09638372B2 |
Operating gas system for an underwater vehicle, method for operating such an operating gas system and an underwater vehicle having such an operating gas system
An operating gas system for an underwater vehicle, particularly for a submarine or an unmanned underwater vehicle, includes a fuel cell system and an operating gas vessel connected in terms of flow to the fuel cell system. In order to achieve simple and efficient storage of boil-off gasses, a gas-receiving device is also provided and is connected to the operating gas vessel. The gas-receiving device contains a sorbent for receiving boil-off gas from the operating gas vessel. The boil-off gas, which is produced in the operating vessel with an operating gas for the fuel cell system and which cannot be consumed directly in the fuel cell reaction, is therefore collected and stored with the aid of the sorbent in the gas-receiving device. A method for operating an operating gas system and an underwater vehicle are also provided. |
| US09638360B2 |
Leak detection O-ring
A seal member for sealingly securing a first and a second pipe at a crimp connection, the seal member including a ring-shaped body having an outer diameter and an inner diameter. A plurality of protrusions are formed on the ring-shaped body and extend radially outwardly from the outer diameter. The ring-shaped body permits fluid to pass around adjacent protrusions prior to attaining the crimp connection and inhibits fluid from passing therearound subsequent to attaining the crimp connection. |
| US09638359B2 |
Strip wound hose
A strip wound hose is provided including a metal band with an approximately S-shaped profile, which is wound in helical windings to form a hose. The profile of the metal band includes two wall sections extending essentially axially and being radially spaced part from each other, which are connected to each other by a web and are each provided at the edge with a bent rim. The profiles of two adjacent windings each are mutually engaged via their rims such that they are axially movable in reference to each other between a compressed position and an extended position. Both the web as well as the rims of the profile are aligned diagonally by an angle of at least 10 degrees in reference to the radial direction. A method for cutting to length and/or widening the strip wound hose is also provided. |
| US09638358B2 |
Duct element for the exhaust system of a motor vehicle
A duct element for the exhaust system of a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine, including at least one flexible duct part, preferably a bellows. The flexible duct part is embodied at least partially from a first type of steel with a Mo-content ≧4% or ≧6% and with a N-content from 0.3% to 0.6% or from 0.18% to 0.25%, preferably embodied from steel of the type 1.4565 or the type 1.4547. Furthermore a decoupling element is provided for motor vehicles with an internal combustion engine and a respective use of steel embodied with a Mo-content ≧4% or ≧6% and a N-content from 0.3% to 0.6% or from 0.18% to 0.25%, preferably steel of the type 1.4565 or 1.4547. |
| US09638355B2 |
Seal girding a stick of pipe or a pipeline in the entry or exit ports of a pipe fusion chamber
A seal obstructs the migration of particulates and precipitation into a pipe fusion chamber through its pipe stick entry and pipeline exit passages. Sheets of cloth serially overlap the anticipated center axis of a pipe stick/pipeline which will pass through the machine. The outer edge of each sheet is pleated and fixed to a frame contiguous with the perimeter of the passage and the inner edge of each sheet is gathered on an elastic band. When a face of a pipe stick/pipeline pushes the sheets away from the frame, the pleats and bands cooperate to allow the inner edges of the sheets to slide over the face and hug substantially the entire outer circumference of the pipe stick/pipeline. |
| US09638353B2 |
Clip for supporting a prestressed cable along a dovetail slot in a cement casting
A clip for securing a prestressed cable along a dovetail slot within a cement cast for masonry work. The clip contains a cup receiving the prestressed cable and legs for a fixed attachment to the outside of a dovetail bar. A method of installing the clip includes inserting the clip between the dovetail slot and the prestressed cable and rotating the clip such that the prestressed cable is received within the cup and the legs capture the dovetail slot. |
| US09638349B2 |
Self-lubricating flexible carbon composite seal
A self-lubricating flexible carbon composite seal includes an annular body formed from a flexible carbon composite. |
| US09638344B2 |
System and method to monitor characteristics of an operating fluid in a process line
A system that provides localized monitoring of characteristics of instrument gas that a valve assembly uses to modulate the flow of a working fluid. The system includes components that generate an output in response to, for example, particulates, humidity, temperature, and other characteristics of the instrument gas. Processing of data and information in the output can help to diagnose changes in the characteristics of the instrument gas. This diagnosis is useful to predict a time frame during which the valve assembly and components associated therewith might fail and/or require maintenance before the valve assembly manifests significant problem that are detrimental to a process line. |
| US09638343B2 |
Sharp-phase change shape memory alloy thermal actuator
A valve actuator, valve, and method of actuation of a valve are disclosed. The valve actuator includes a shape memory alloy element attachable to a valve body, capable of use with a valve to cause movement of the valve between first and second positions responsive to at least a threshold amount of temperature change of the shape memory alloy element. The valve actuator further includes a negative-differential spring applied to the shape memory alloy element, thereby reducing the threshold amount of temperature change needed to cause movement of the valve between the first and second positions. |
| US09638339B2 |
Diaphragm valve
A diaphragm valve comprises at least one valve body which has at least one inlet, at least one outlet, at least one flow channel and at least one shutoff web dividing the flow channel into channel portions. The diaphragm valve furthermore comprises a diaphragm which rests on a circumferential sealing seat of the valve body, and a drive having a drive housing, the drive being coupled to the diaphragm to press the diaphragm against the shutoff web for closing the valve. The diaphragm valve furthermore comprises a fastening unit for detachably locking the drive to the valve body, the fasting unit having a bayonet cap and an additional central retightening unit by means of which an axial tightening force is generated. |
| US09638338B2 |
Microfluidic pump and valve structures and fabrication methods
Plastic microfluidic structures having a substantially rigid diaphragm that actuates between a relaxed state wherein the diaphragm sits against the surface of a substrate and an actuated state wherein the diaphragm is moved away from the substrate. As will be seen from the following description, the microfluidic structures formed with this diaphragm provide easy to manufacture and robust systems, as well readily made components such as valves and pumps. |
| US09638337B2 |
Plug valve having preloaded seal segments
A plug valve including a valve body having an inlet port, an outlet port and a central chamber extending between the inlet port and the outlet port. The valve also includes an inlet seal segment within the central chamber and includes a bore extending therethrough and aligned with the inlet port. An outlet seal segment is disposed within the central chamber having a bore extending therethrough and aligned with the outlet port. A plug member is disposed in the central chamber and is moveable between an open position, to facilitate fluid flow through the plug valve, and a closed position, to block fluid flow through the plug valve. First and second side segments are disposed between and interlocked to the inlet and outlet seal segments to encircle the plug member. The side segments are tensioned to preload the seal segments against the plug member to prevent the flow of fluid between the seal segments and the plug member. |
| US09638335B2 |
Double sealing valve
A double sealing valve includes a power cylinder having a driving axle, a valve body formed of a first and a second valve members, and a seal plate assembly within the valve body. Therein, the first valve member has an axle bore for the driving axle to pass through, and the second valve member has two valve holes oppositely disposed. The seal plate assembly has a driving frame connected to the driving axle, with plural roller assemblies disposed around the driving frame. The seal plate assembly has two seal plates disposed between two faces of the driving frame and the valve body, respectively. Each seal plate has plural driving grooves corresponding to the roller assemblies. The driving axle drives the seal plate assembly to seal the valve holes, with a sealing force produced therebetween by use of the roller assembly and the driving groove. |
| US09638332B2 |
Valve for an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine
A valve for an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine includes a housing which contains a passage for conducting exhaust gases. In the passage is arranged a closing body with which the passage can be closed. The closing body is fastened in a rotationally fixed manner to a shaft, which is mounted rotatably in the housing, and can be pivoted together with the shaft about the rotation axis of the shaft. The closing body has a partition, which runs perpendicularly to the rotation axis of the shaft, and has a circular outer contour which is sealed off from the housing and divides the passage into a first duct and a second duct. When the closing body is in the closed position both the first and second ducts are closed. When the closing body is in an open position the exhaust gasses can pass through the first and second ducts. |
| US09638330B2 |
Ultrahigh-pressure sealing device and reciprocating pump
An ultrahigh-pressure sealing device improves sealing performance under ultrahigh pressures and improves durability. The ultrahigh-pressure sealing device is arranged to seal an annular space between an outer member and an inner member and separates between a high-pressure chamber and a low-pressure chamber. A bottom ring includes a first inner periphery, a first large-diameter outer periphery, a first small-diameter outer periphery, and a first middle outer periphery. A back-up ring includes a second inner periphery, a second engagement portion, and a second outer periphery. A packing ring includes a third low-pressure-chamber end, a third inner periphery, a third large-diameter outer periphery, a third the small-diameter outer periphery, and a third middle outer periphery. An elastic ring includes a fourth inner periphery, a fourth the engagement portion, and a fourth outer periphery. |
| US09638329B2 |
Engine rear seal
In an engine rear seal installed to an engine rear portion having an end plate arranged in a motor exterior side of a housing, and a flywheel arranged in a motor exterior side of the end plate, the engine rear seal has an oil seal and a muddy water preventing seal. The muddy water preventing seal integrally has an attaching portion, and a seal lip directed to a diametrically outer side from the attaching portion and slidably coming into close contact with an end surface in the motor exterior side of the end plate. The seal lip has an inclined lip end back surface portion, and is structured such that a lip end comes into contact with the end surface at the low-speed rotating time and the lip end moves away from the end plate on the basis of an action of a centrifugal force at the high-speed rotating time. |
| US09638325B2 |
Material for gasket
A material for a gasket, wherein a chromate or non-chromate film, a phenol resin primer layer and a polyol-crosslinkable fluororubber layer are formed on one or both surfaces of a steel plate in this sequence from the side of the steel plate; the polyol-crosslinkable fluororubber layer is a rubber layer obtained by applying a fluororubber composition that comprises fluororubber, a polyol-based cross-linking agent, an amine-based cross-linking accelerator and silica to the phenol resin primer layer, followed by heating; and the amine-based cross-linking accelerator is a tertiary amine or a salt of a tertiary amine obtained by a reaction between a tertiary amine and an acid. Provided is a material for a gasket mounted in an engine of a vehicle that, in the actual use environment, does not suffer rubber peeling in a part where it contacts water or an anti-freezing solution even if the gasket is used in a state where it contacts different types of metals and, in a sealing part around a combustion room, abrasion or ply separation of a rubber layer hardly occurs. |
| US09638324B2 |
Sealing device
The invention provides a sealing device constructed by combination of a slinger and a lip member, the sealing device being capable of improving a sealing performance, particularly a sealing performance against external dusts. In order to achieve the object, in a sealing device having a slinger which is installed to one member among relatively rotating two members, a lip member which is installed to the other member, and structured such that the slinger integrally has a tubular portion which is fitted to the one member and a flange portion which extends in a diametrical direction, and the lip member having an end face lip which slidably comes into close contact with the flange portion, a bent portion protruding in an axial direction toward the lip member is provided in the flange portion, and a labyrinth structure having a minute gap is provided between the bent portion and the lip member. |
| US09638322B2 |
Piston ring with dual coating
Exemplary piston rings are disclosed, comprising a base portion formed of a metallic material, and an outer contact surface extending between opposing side faces of the piston ring. The piston ring may include a coating layer applied to the outer contact surface, with the coating layer including an inner layer and an outer layer. Exemplary methods of making a piston ring are also disclosed, comprising providing a base portion formed of a metallic material, applying an inner layer to an outer surface of the base portion, and applying an outer layer on top of the inner layer. |
| US09638314B2 |
ECO lubrication method for a transfer case
A number of variations may comprise a method comprising: a lubrication system for a transfer case comprising: actively managing an oil level in a plurality of sumps in a transfer case by rotating at least one rotating element in the transfer case to transfer oil through the transfer case to lubricate the transfer case. |
| US09638311B2 |
Power transmission gear unit and vehicle instrument
Hemispherical protrusions are protrudingly provided in end surfaces of a rotor gear and a tooth portion of a small gear having the smaller number of gear teeth between the rotor gear and a large gear of an intermediate gear, and between the small gear of the intermediate gear and an output gear, which are meshed with each other in a transmission gear train. Thus, in a case where the large gear rides on the rotor gear or the small gear rides on the output gear when the intermediate gear is accommodated in a housing after the rotor gear and the output gear are accommodated, it is possible to cancel the riding state thereof only by applying a slight vibration to the housing. |
| US09638310B2 |
Drive assembly with a rotating housing attached to an output interface
A drive assembly is disclosed, including a housing cylinder having a cap end and an attachment end including a first attachment surface, with gear teeth being disposed around an inner circumference forming at least one ring gear. The housing cylinder encloses a planetary gear set including at least one sun gear and at least one set of planet gears. An output interface includes an interface body having an annular attachment lip including a second attachment surface. The first attachment surface contacts, and is connected, as by welding, to the second attachment surface, whereby rotational power may be transmitted from the planetary gear set to the output interface via the gear teeth and the contact between the attachment surfaces. |
| US09638309B2 |
V-pulley manufacturing process
A process for manufacturing a V-pulley is disclosed. A metallic cylindrical pulley blank is integrally formed by removing material of a circumferential surface of the pulley blank to form a plurality of circumferential V-belt grooves. The pulley blank is subjected to precision machining and shot blasting to form a rough shot blasting layer on the side surfaces of the V-belt grooves. At least one through hole is axially drilled along a longitudinal central axis of the pulley blank from one axial end to opposite axial end of the shot blasted pulley blank to fluidly connect all of plurality of V-belt grooves followed by mounting and fastening a mold for casting tooth rings at the bottoms of the plurality of V-belt grooves and receiving a metal casting fluid into the plurality of V-belt grooves from one end portion of the through hole to form the tooth rings. |
| US09638307B2 |
Electric power steering device
An electric power steering device includes a worm which is swingably connected to the rotation shaft of an electric motor through a joint. A first end portion and second end portion of the worm are supported by a first bearing and a second bearing, respectively. A pair of elastic members elastically urge the worm to an axial neutral position. An annular leaf spring which is held by a housing urges the second end portion toward a worm wheel through the second bearing. A synthetic resin member having a sliding contact surface which is in contact with the leaf spring is integrally disposed on the second bearing. |
| US09638302B2 |
Electric axle with a two gear transmission
An axle drive system for a motor vehicle, having a dynamoelectric drive motor (1), a shiftable superimposing transmission having a first and a second gear stage (3, 4), a shift actuator system (5) for shifting the superimposing transmission, as well as a power divider (8) driving two output shafts (10, 12). The drive motor (1), power divider shafts (9, 11), output shafts (10, 12) and dynamoelectric drive motor (1) are arranged coaxially to each other and perpendicular to the direction of travel of the motor vehicle. A particularly compact design is achieved for the axle drive system of the aforementioned type in that the shift actuator system (5) having an electric motor (14) provided for actuation purposes is in its entirety disposed in a space bounded by the first gear stage (3) on one side and the second gear stage (4) on the other side in the axial direction of the drive system. |
| US09638299B2 |
Actuating device
The invention relates to an actuating device for joint action upon at least two different elements of a motor vehicle door lock, with at least one sheathed cable having a core and sheath, wherein the sheathed cable is provided in the longitudinal extent thereof with at least two force transmission units which are designed for interaction with a first element at one end and with a second element at the other end upon action on the sheathed cable, and one of the two elements is designed as an actuating lever, wherein the other element is a closing/opening element operating on a locking mechanism. |
| US09638298B2 |
Method and device for correcting feed error of feeder
The drive source of a feeder (111) is utilized to drive a feed error correction device for correcting error in feeding a moving body caused by extension of linear bodies (161A, 161B) of the feeder. With the feeder (111) running, when extension at or above a predetermined value occurs in the linear bodies (161A, 161B), a guide unit (171) including a driven rotating wheel (172) for the linear bodies tows (or displaces) through power received from the drive source of the feeder, bringing the linear bodies (161A, 161B) into a state of appropriate tension. The guide unit (171) receives transmission of power in one direction only and appropriately tows the linear bodies (161A, 161B), thereby cancelling extension of the linear bodies at or above the predetermined value. |
| US09638297B2 |
Rack bar supporting device for steering gear
A rack bar supporting device is a device for supporting a rack bar of a steering apparatus of a vehicle toward a pinion shaft and includes a rack bearing and a biasing assembly. The biasing assembly includes an adjustment plug, an adjustment assembly and a support plate assembly. The adjustment assembly includes an adjustment member and a first biasing member. The support plate assembly includes a first support plate, a second support plate, a second biasing member which provides a force for pushing the first support plate along the biasing axis against the second support plate, and a connection structure which connects the first and the second support plates together so as to restrict movement of the second plate in a direction away from the rack bearing. |
| US09638296B2 |
Ball type CVT including a direct drive mode
Variable transmissions and drivelines using such transmissions having a direct drive mode, a reverse mode, and a continuously variable mode of operation using a continuously variable variator in combination with a gearbox having a one or two speed forward gear, a reverse gear, and a direct drive clutch. The direct drive clutch transfers power from the input shaft directly to the gearbox by running the variator in a unitary (1) speed ratio configuration, or by bypassing the variator altogether by using a set of clutches that disconnect the variator from the input shaft. Additional gears may be provided in the gearbox. |
| US09638295B2 |
Friction-ring transmission having two roller bodies spaced apart from one another by a gap
A friction ring-type transmission includes two roller bodies which are arranged at a distance from each other about a gap, which correspond to each other via the friction ring and which rotate (5) on axial roller body axes. The friction ring is arranged in an adjusting bridge in such a manner that it can be axially displaced about an adjusting path along the gap and the adjusting bridge is mounted by an individual, axial guiding device. |
| US09638293B2 |
Variable belt tensioner for an internal combustion engine
The present disclosure describes a variable belt tensioner of an internal combustion engine for adjusting a belt tensioning. The tensioner includes in a series configuration an electric motor, a worm drive, a lever drive and a belt tensioner roller. The worm drive is driven by the electric motor and is mechanically connected to the lever drive for transmitting a rotation thereto. The lever drive is mechanically connected to the belt tensioner roller for transmitting a translation thereto, thus allowing the belt tensioner roller to adjust the belt tensioning. |
| US09638292B1 |
CVT differential
A CVT (continuously variable transmission) differential is provided which includes a first drive input ring gear having internal teeth. A planetary or bevel gear differential is connected to the first drive input ring gear. The planetary differential includes a planet gear carrier, first planet gears, second planet gears, a first sun gear, and a second sun gear. Alternatively, the bevel gear differential includes a carrier that supports drive and driven bevel gears. A second drive input is connected to the planet gear carrier or bevel gear carrier. Preferably, a primary drive is connected to the first drive input ring gear, which can be an internal combustion engine or an electric motor. Preferably, a secondary drive is connected to the second drive input, which is preferably an electric motor, for example for a hybrid motor vehicle. |
| US09638290B1 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for vehicle
Nine or more forward speeds and at least one reverse speed are achieved by a planetary gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle including an input shaft, an output shaft, four planetary gear sets respectively having three rotation elements, and six control elements for selectively interconnecting the rotation elements and a transmission housing. |
| US09638288B2 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for a vehicle
A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft receiving rotary power of an engine, an output shaft outputting the rotary power with rotary speed changed, a first planetary gear set including a first, a second, and a third rotating element, a second planetary gear set including a fourth, a fifth, and a sixth rotating element, a third planetary gear set including a seventh, an eighth, and a ninth rotating element, a fourth planetary gear set including a tenth, an eleventh, and a twelfth rotating element, and six control elements disposed between one of the rotating elements and another or the input shaft, between one of the rotating elements and the output shaft, or between one of the rotating elements and a transmission housing. |
| US09638273B2 |
Brake assembly and a method of operating a brake assembly
A brake assembly for a vehicle comprising a wheel comprising a hollow section and a rim, the rim comprising a first portion comprising an electrically conductive material and a second portion adjacent to the first portion comprising a plurality of a permanent magnets and a stator comprising at least one electromagnetic coil arranged to be located within the hollow section of the wheel, wherein the stator is moveable between a first position in which the at least one electromagnetic coil is inductively coupled to the first portion of the rim when the wheel is rotating relative to the stator, and a second position in which the at least one electromagnetic coil is inductively coupled to the second portion of the rim. |
| US09638269B2 |
Starter freewheel and freewheel arrangement having a starter freewheel of this kind
A starter freewheel is provided. The starter freewheel has a first race, a second race, a wedging gap formed between the first and second races, at least one wedging element arranged in the wedging gap, and at least one further component. The further component is in rotary drive connection with one of the races. The component is formed by at least two sheet-metal parts connected to one another in sandwich-fashion. A freewheel arrangement having a starter freewheel of this kind is also provided. |
| US09638267B2 |
Driving force transmission device
A driving force transmission device includes an inner ring; an outer ring; a roller pair constituted by a first roller and a second roller; an elastic member; a first cage including a first pressing portion; a second cage including a second pressing portion; a first guide member; a second guide member; and an electromagnetic clutch including an armature connected to the first and second guide members. Along with rotation of the first cage toward the circumferential second side, the first pressing portion presses the first roller toward the circumferential second side. Along with rotation of the second cage toward the circumferential first side, the second pressing portion presses the second roller toward the circumferential first side. |
| US09638266B2 |
Electronic vehicular transmission including a sensor and coupling and control assembly for use therein
An electronic vehicular transmission including a sensor for providing an electrical signal for electronic transmission control is provided. The transmission includes a transmission case and a controllable coupling assembly including a coupling member supported for rotation within the case about a rotational axis. The coupling member has a coupling face oriented to face radially with respect to the axis and has a set of ferromagnetic or magnetic locking formations. An electromechanical component includes a locking element and a sensor. The component is mounted to and extends into the case so that both the locking element and the sensor are in close-spaced opposition to the coupling face. The sensor senses magnetic flux to produce an electrical output signal indicative of a speed of rotation of the coupling member. A variable magnetic field is generated in response to rotation of the locking formations past the sensor. |
| US09638263B2 |
Claw coupling
A claw coupling includes two coupling elements having claws which engage alternately into one another and have confronting concave claw surfaces configured to follow a first circular track. Disposed between the coupling elements is a pressure body arrangement having pressure bodies respectively received between the claws of one coupling element and the claws of the other coupling element. The pressure bodies have convex pressure body surfaces which engage during a torque transmission with the claw surfaces of the claws. Each pressure body surface is configured to follow a second circular track, with the radius of the first circular track and the radius of the second circular track touching one another at a radially innermost point of the claw surface which is disposed on a common straight line having a center point of the first circular track and a center point of the second circular track. |
| US09638261B2 |
Collapsible shaft assembly with flanged slots
A drive shaft assembly for a vehicle includes a first tubular member and a second tubular member that is received by the first tubular member defining a coaxial relationship. The first tubular member defines a plurality of protuberances with each of the protuberances defining a side wall and the second tubular member defines a plurality of apertures with each of the apertures defined by a flange circumscribing the aperture and extending radially inwardly of second tubular member. Each aperture receives a protuberance so that the protuberance abuts the sidewalls of the aperture affixing the first tubular member to said second tubular member in a substantially fixed circumferential orientation. |
| US09638254B2 |
Rolling bearing
There is provided a rolling bearing including: inner and outer members, rolling elements in a raceway space, flexible annular sealing members which close openings at both ends of the raceway space, and annular metal shield members. Each sealing member is formed in three-dimensional shape such that the sealing member in a natural state is convex inwardly between outer and inner circumferential edge portions and the inner circumferential edge portion is elastically in surface contact with the outer surface of the inner member when the sealing member is fitted to the outer member. Each metal shield member is fixed to the outer member in a state that the outer circumferential edge portion of each sealing member is sandwiched between the metal shield member and the outer member. Each metal shield member covers part of each sealing member without contacting the inner member. |
| US09638253B2 |
Bearing
A rolling element bearing comprising inner and outer rings; a plurality of rolling elements disposed between opposing surfaces of the inner and outer rings; and a bearing shield comprising a first member having an annular surface facing the plurality of rolling elements, the first member either (1) extending from the inner ring towards the outer ring (defining a gap between the first member and the outer ring) and the inner ring having a low surface energy surface adjacent the gap, or (2) extending from the outer ring towards the inner ring (defining a gap between the first member and the inner ring) and the inner ring comprises a low energy surface adjacent the gap. The low energy surfaces each have a surface energy of ≦0.028 N/m. |
| US09638252B2 |
Bearing comprising a resilient bearing flange
The bearing provides an outer ring, an inner ring, at least one seal fixed to one of the rings and cooperating with the other ring, and at least one sealing flange fixed on the other ring. Flange is at least partly elastically deformable in the axial direction. Flange is axially mounted in contact against an outer lateral face of the seal. At least one local deformation is provided to the sealing flange to support elastically deformation of the flange. The sealing flange further provides at least one protrusion that axially extends beyond the local deformation. |
| US09638248B2 |
Plastic cage
Pillar parts (10) are connected to the inner peripheral surface (5b) of a large-diameter rim part (5) and to the outer peripheral surface (7b) of a small-diameter rim part (7). The inner peripheral surface (5b) of the large-diameter rim part (5) and the outer peripheral surface (7b) of the small-diameter rim part (7) 5 respectively have axial-direction inside portions (5c), (7c) overlapping with the pillar parts (10) in the axial direction and axial-direction outside portions (5d), (7d) not overlapping with the pillar parts (10) in the axial direction. A small-diameter annular member (2) is internally fitted in the axial-direction outside portion (5d) of the inner peripheral 10 surface (5b) of the large-diameter rim part (5). A large-diameter annular member (4) is externally fitted in the axial-direction outside portion (7d) of the outer peripheral surface (7b) of the small-diameter rim part (7). |
| US09638245B2 |
Bearing assembly for a pipe machining apparatus
Pipe machining apparatuses and bearing assemblies are provided. In one aspect, a pipe machining apparatus includes a frame, a tool carrier, a first roller bearing and a second roller bearing. The tool carrier is coupled to and movable relative to the frame and defines a race therein. The first roller bearing includes a first shaft and a first roller rotatably coupled to the first shaft. The first roller is at least partially positioned in the race and is rotatable about a first roller bearing axis adapted to remain substantially fixed relative to the frame. The second roller bearing includes a second shaft and a second roller rotatably coupled to the second shaft. The second roller is at least partially positioned in the race and is rotatable about a second roller bearing axis. The second roller bearing is adjustable to move the second roller bearing axis relative to the frame. |
| US09638242B2 |
High-contrast engine connecting rod
After a connecting rod for an engine is formed, it is broken or fractured at a fracture point to allow the connecting rod to assemble around a portion of a crankshaft. However, before fracturing the connecting rod, the connecting rod is provided with a layer of paint across the eventual fracture point such that when the connecting rod is fractured the paint extends across both sides of the fracture point. Also before fracturing the connecting rod, serial numbers or symbols are etched into the paint on either side of the eventual fracture point. These serial numbers are unique to that connecting rod, and have similar indicia on either side of the connecting rod. The combination of the paint and serial numbers increase the ability of an assembly worker to assure matching parts of an original connecting rod are re-attached during assembly about the crankshaft. |
| US09638241B2 |
Aircraft comprising a link rod one part of which is made of composite
The link for an aircraft comprises at least two portions respectively made of metal and of composite material together forming a common section of a middle segment of the link in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the link. |
| US09638239B2 |
Cable lubrication device
A cable lubrication device for directing pressurized lubricant into the internal space of a control cable, the cable lubrication device having a main body tube, a locking ring, a plunger and a spiral-cut seal. |
| US09638237B2 |
Snap hook apparatus
A snap hook apparatus includes a shell, a bolt, a hook, two pins, a torsion spring and an elastic strip. The shell includes an annular rib formed on an internal side and teeth formed on the annular rib. The bolt includes two lugs, an annular shoulder, and a bore near the annular shoulder. The hook includes a catch at a first end and an aperture in a second end. The first pin is inserted in the first lug and used for engagement with the catch of the hook. The second pin is inserted in the second lug and the second end of the hook. The torsion spring includes a first end inserted in the bore of the bolt and a second end inserted in a recess defined between two adjacent ones of the teeth of the shell. The compression spring and the elastic strip are inserted in the shell. |
| US09638236B2 |
Fasteners with coated and textured pin members
A pin member for a fastener includes an elongated shank having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a cylindrical shank portion having an outer surface, a head located at the first end of the elongated shank, the head including a bearing surface located on the bearing surface of the head, and a threaded portion located at the second end of the elongated shank. Either or both of the bearing surface of the head or the outer surface of the cylindrical shank portion is coated with a coating and/or is textured. The coating may be tungsten, molybdenum, copper, or a refractory ceramic. The textured surfaces may include a surface roughness greater than 0.5 micron. |
| US09638229B2 |
Connection device for assembling together two members
A connection device for assembling together a receiver first section member presenting an inner cavity, and a fastener second section member presenting a groove having a constricted opening. The connection device includes a cage forming a pair of jaws for coming into engagement in the groove. The device also including a resilient drive mechanism for urging a spacer member between the jaws so as to space them apart in such a manner as to come into engagement with the groove through the constricted opening; and a pivotable lever that pivots about a pivot pin, the pivotable lever including a lever arm and a thrust head that engages the spacer member so as to move it against the force exerted by the resilient drive mechanism on the spacer member. |
| US09638226B2 |
Coupling structure including stud bolt
A stud bolt has a first thread portion, a second thread portion, an engagement portion and a large diameter portion. The first thread portion is screwable into a first member about a screw axis. The second thread portion is screwable into a second member about the screw axis and is provided coaxially with the first thread portion. The engagement portion is provided on a side of the second thread portion, which is opposite from the first thread portion. The large diameter portion has a circular cross-section perpendicular to the screw axis. The large diameter portion is located between the first thread portion and the second thread portion. An outer diameter of the large diameter portion is larger than an outer diameter of the first thread portion and the outer diameter of the second thread portion. |
| US09638225B2 |
Closure element for a fire-protection sleeve
A closure element for a fire-protection sleeve is disclosed. The closure element has a body, a connecting element, and at least one locking element for a form-fitting connection to an intumescent strip. The body and the connecting element are designed in one piece. |
| US09638221B2 |
Fluid pressure cylinder
A fluid pressure cylinder includes: a piston rod; a cushioning chamber that decreases in capacity in accordance with extension of the fluid pressure cylinder; a communication passage that allows the cushioning chamber and an in-rod chamber to communicate with each other; a throttle passage that exerts a cushioning function by applying resistance to a flow of a working fluid from the cushioning chamber to the in-rod chamber; a check valve that is provided in a piston, allows the in-rod chamber and a driving chamber to communicate with each other, and has a checking function for permitting only a flow of the working fluid from the in-rod chamber to the driving chamber; and a pilot passage that is formed in the piston and disables the checking function by guiding a pressure in the cushioning chamber to the check valve as a pilot pressure. |
| US09638218B2 |
Joystick pilot valve equipped with the structure for preventing oil leakage
A joystick pilot valve equipped with the structure for preventing oil leakage comprises: a valve body; spool installed in the valve body to be moved between the supply port and the hydraulic fluid chamber; spool hole installed in the valve body; pushing cam connected to the upper portion of the valve body by joint; joystick lever connected to the pushing cam to make the pushing cam move like seesaw by the operation and make the spool move in the spool hole forward and backward to make the supply port connected or disconnected to the hydraulic fluid chamber; outer boot provided at the valve body to cover the outer periphery of the valve body, the pushing cam and the joystick lever; inner boot arranged inside of the outer boot and forming oil leak storage chamber sealed from the outer side at the upper portion of the guide hole. |
| US09638217B2 |
Lifting system and lifting method for jib of an operating machine, and an operating machine thereof
A lifting system for a jib of an operating machine that includes an energy storage device having an energy storage cylinder and an accumulator, the energy storage cylinder having an upper chamber, a lower chamber, and an energy storage piston rod connected to the jib. The upper part of the accumulator is filled with gas, and the lower part of the accumulator is filled with hydraulic oil and communicates with the lower chamber of the energy storage cylinder. The lifting system also includes a hydraulic pump and a control cylinder for controlling the lifting of the jib, which comprises an upper chamber, a lower chamber, and a control piston rod connected to the jib. |
| US09638216B1 |
Discretized valve state control for multi-level hydraulic systems
An actuation pressure to actuate one or more hydraulic actuators may be determined based on a load on the one or more hydraulic actuators of a robotic device. Based on the determined actuation pressure, a pressure rail from among a set of pressure rails at respective pressures may be selected. One or more valves may connect the selected pressure rail to a metering valve. The hydraulic drive system may operate in a discrete mode in which the metering valve opens such that hydraulic fluid flows from the selected pressure rail through the metering valve to the one or more hydraulic actuators at approximately the supply pressure. Responsive to a control state of the robotic device, the hydraulic drive system may operate in a continuous mode in which the metering valve throttles the hydraulic fluid such that the supply pressure is reduced to the determined actuation pressure. |
| US09638212B2 |
Compressor variable vane assembly
A variable vane assembly for a gas turbine engine compressor with a plurality of pivoting variable vanes extending between inner and outer shrouds and having an overhang portion that protrudes from a button at opposed ends of the vane. A plurality of projections, disposed on at least one of the inner and outer shrouds, protrude into the gas path relative to a nominal gas path boundary of the shrouds. The projections are disposed adjacent the overhang portion and have an angled planar surface that is substantially parallel to a plane swept by a terminal edge of the overhang portion when the variable vane is rotated through its vane pivot arc, so that a radial clearance gap between the shroud and the overhang portion remains substantially constant through a substantial portion of the vane pivot arc. |
| US09638205B2 |
Double seal pump with integral accumulator
A double seal pump assembly is provided and comprises a pump housing having an inlet and an outlet. An impeller is in communication with the inlet and outlet. The impeller includes an impeller shaft extending outwardly from the housing. The impeller shaft is adapted to engage a drive shaft of a motor. A housing adapter is mounted onto the housing at a first seal and is configured to secure the impeller to the housing. A motor adapter is mounted to the housing adapter at a second seal thereby defining a cavity therebetween. The motor adapter is configured to mount the motor and the cavity is configured to be filled with a barrier fluid. An accumulator is in fluid communication with the cavity and is adapted to hold a reserve barrier fluid so as to maintain barrier fluid volume and pressure within the cavity. |
| US09638204B2 |
Pump and its manufacturing method
A pump assembly comprises an inlet, an outlet and a housing having an inlet aperture in fluid connection with the inlet, and an outlet aperture in fluid connection with the outlet. A rotor located within the housing is shaped to form with an interior surface of the housing a chamber. On rotation of the rotor, the chamber conveys fluid from the inlet aperture to the outlet aperture. The housing carries a seal located in the inlet and urged into contact with the rotor to prevent the passage of fluid past the rotor from the outlet to the inlet. Center lines of the inlet and the outlet are parallel to one another. The outlet can be formed by linear movement of a mold core. |
| US09638202B2 |
Centrifugal pump apparatus
A centrifugal blood pump apparatus includes a plurality of permanent magnets (17) in an impeller (10) in a blood chamber (7), a plurality of coils (20) in a motor chamber (8), and a magnetic element (18) in each of the coils (20). The magnetic elements (18) are made shorter than the coils (20) to lower attractive force between the magnetic elements (18) and the permanent magnets (17) in the impeller (10), to set a large gap between the magnetic elements (18) and the permanent magnets (17). As a result, axial attractive force and negative rigidity can be lowered while required torque is satisfied. |
| US09638200B2 |
Turbo-molecular pump
A turbo-molecular pump comprises: a rotor having a plurality of stages of rotor blades and a cylindrical section; a plurality of stages of stationary blades alternately arranged with respect to the rotor blades; a stator arranged with a gap from the cylindrical section, the stator together with the cylindrical section constituting a screw groove pump section; a plurality of spacers stacked on a base, the spacers including at least one cooling spacer having a cooling section; a heater heating the stator; a temperature regulation section controlling the heater to regulate the temperature of the stator so as to be a reaction product accumulation prevention temperature; and an auxiliary ring for reaction product accumulation prevention at least a part of which is located in a space between the spacer facing a bottom step rotor blade, and the bottom step rotor blade. |
| US09638198B2 |
Shaftless turbocharger
A product for use with a turbocharger is disclosed. The product may include a housing with an opening extending through at least part of the housing. An outer bearing race may be positioned in the opening. An inner bearing race may be rotatably positioned in the outer bearing race. A turbine wheel may be fixed to one end of the inner bearing race. A compressor wheel may be fixed to another end of the inner bearing race. The inner bearing race may be comprised of one, two, or more race sections. The turbine wheel may be connected to the compressor wheel only through the inner bearing race or race sections. |
| US09638197B2 |
Turbo compressor
A turbo compressor is provided that has first, second and third stage compressor blades rotated by a large gear shaft via an acceleration device, and includes a cast integral casing (1) which forms an acceleration unit cover housing the acceleration device, compression unit covers housing the compressor blades, and first, second and third stage cooler chambers (11a, 12a, 13a) which are arranged in parallel at a lower portion thereof, which communicate with the compressor unit covers by fluid passages, and into which first, second and third stage coolers are inserted from the side thereof. An oil tank (21) is integrally formed with the cast integral casing (1) so as to run along an insertion-directional innermost side of the coolers of the parallel-arranged first, second and third stage cooler chambers (11a, 12a, 13a). |
| US09638192B2 |
Fuel pump
A fuel pump, including a driven impeller, which rotates in a pump housing and on the two sides comprises guide blades that each delimit a ring of blade chambers, and further including partial ring-shaped channels, which are arranged on both sides in the region of the guide blades in the pump housing and which form delivery chambers with the blade chambers for delivering fuel, wherein an inlet channel leads into the one delivery chamber and the other delivery chamber leads into an outlet channel, and mutually opposing blade chambers are connected to each other. The cross-sectional surface of the partial ring-shaped channel arranged on the inlet side decreases toward the end of the partial ring-shaped channel to zero. The region in which the cross-sectional surface decreases extends over an angular region of more than 45°. |
| US09638189B2 |
Oil pump structure
An oil pump structure including: an oil pump having a first hydraulic control chamber and a second hydraulic control chamber; a hydraulic control valve having a valve operating oil passage, a first inflow passage, a second inflow passage, a first outflow passage, a second outflow passage and a drain flow passage; and an oil circuit, wherein the hydraulic control valve is connected to a branching flow passage of the oil circuit; a spool valve body of the hydraulic control valve has a front valve section, a rear valve section and an intermediate valve section, which are formed perpendicularly to the axial direction of a connecting shaft; an axial-direction dimension of the intermediate valve section is larger than an axial-direction dimension of the second outflow passage; the second outflow passage and the drain flow passage are both accommodated temporarily between the intermediate valve section and the front valve section due to movement of the spool valve body; and in the hydraulic control valve, a control hydraulic pressure is applied at all times to the first hydraulic control chamber, and the control hydraulic pressure is increased and decreased in the second hydraulic control chamber. |
| US09638185B2 |
Pulseless positive displacement pump and method of pulselessly displacing fluid
A double displacement pump includes an inlet manifold, an outlet manifold, a first fluid cavity between the inlet manifold and the outlet manifold, a second fluid cavity between the inlet manifold and the outlet manifold, and a drive system that includes a housing defining an internal pressure chamber, a piston disposed within the internal pressure chamber and having a first and second pull chambers and a central slot for receiving a drive, a first pull with a free end slidably secured within the first pull chamber and a second pull with a free end slidably secured within the second pull chamber, and a first fluid displacement member coupled to the first pull and a second fluid displacement member coupled to the second pull. |
| US09638173B2 |
Solar thermal power system
A solar thermal power system can include a solar receiver steam generator, a thermal energy storage arrangement utilizing a thermal energy storage fluid, and a multistage steam turbine for driving an electrical generator to produce electrical power. The solar thermal power system has a first operating mode in which steam is generated by the solar receiver steam generator and is supplied both to the thermal energy storage arrangement and to a high pressure turbine inlet of the multistage steam turbine. In a second operating mode, steam is generated by recovering stored thermal energy from the thermal energy storage fluid of the thermal energy storage arrangement for injection into the multistage steam turbine at a location or turbine stage downstream of the high pressure turbine inlet. |
| US09638172B2 |
Arrangement of a switchgear of a wind turbine
A wind turbine with a switchgear arrangement is described. The wind turbine includes a tower, a rotor supported at an upper end of the tower, a generator, a transformer for increasing the voltage output of the generator prior to supplying a collector grid, and switchgear arranged between the transformer and the collector grid. The switchgear includes a first switching device associated with the transformer, and a second switching device associated with one or more cables connecting the wind turbine to another wind turbine in the collector grid. The first switching device is connected to, but located remotely from, the second switching device. |
| US09638171B2 |
System and methods for controlling wind turbine
A method of operating a wind turbine is provided. The wind turbine includes a rotor that is rotatably coupled to a generator that is positioned within a nacelle. The rotor includes one or more rotor blades that are coupled to a hub. The method includes transmitting, from a first sensor to a control system, at least a first monitoring signal indicative of a first wind condition at a first distance from the wind turbine. A second sensor transmits at least a second monitoring signal that is indicative of a second wind condition at a second distance from the wind turbine that is longer than the first distance to the control system. The control system calculates a wind turbine operating command based at least in part on the first monitoring signal and the second monitoring signal. One or more wind turbine components are operated based on the calculated wind turbine operating command. |
| US09638168B2 |
System and method for detecting ice on a wind turbine rotor blade
A system and method for detecting ice on a rotor blade of a wind turbine are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method may include releasing a pitch brake of a pitch adjustment mechanism associated with the rotor blade, controlling the pitch adjustment mechanism so as to maintain the rotor blade at a fixed pitch angle, monitoring a pitch-related parameter of the wind turbine while the rotor blade is maintained at the fixed pitch angle, and analyzing the monitored pitch-related parameter to determine whether ice is present on the rotor blade. |
| US09638165B2 |
Blade for wind turbine and method of assembly of the blade
It is described a blade for a wind turbine for converting wind energy into electric energy, including: a blade structure longitudinally extending along a blade axis (X1) and including a blade tip, an opposite blade root, a longitudinal leading edge portion and a longitudinal trailing edge portion which are extended between the blade root and the blade tip; and an outer aerodynamic shell defining an airfoil including an airfoil leading edge, an airfoil trailing edge and an airfoil suction side and an airfoil pressure side between the airfoil leading and trailing edges. The outer aerodynamic shell includes a suction side panel and a pressure side panel which are made from a transparent material and are fastened to the blade structure so as to define the airfoil suction side and the airfoil pressure side, respectively, wherein the blade includes a transparent region between the transparent panels and wherein the transparent panels are arranged facing one another so that it is possible to see through the blade looking through the transparent panels and the transparent region. A method for assembling the blade is also described. |
| US09638159B2 |
Laser spark plug and cooler for a laser spark plug
A laser spark plug configured to be installed into a plug shaft of an internal combustion engine, and to focus laser ignition energy into the combustion chamber via combustion chamber-side, and thus proximal end, of the laser spark plug has, at a distal end of the laser spark plug opposite to the proximal end, a connecting unit for detachable mechanical and thermal connection to a cooler, the connecting unit being designed to permit the connecting and the disconnecting of the cooler when the laser spark plug is installed in the plug shaft. |
| US09638157B2 |
Compact electromagnetic plasma ignition device
A quarter wave coaxial cavity resonator for producing corona discharge plasma from is presented. The quarter wave coaxial cavity resonator has a folded cavity made of opposing concentric cavity members that are nested together to form a continuous cavity ending in a aperture. A center conductor with a tip is positioned in the cavity. The folded cavity advantageously permits the coaxial cavity resonator to resonate at a lower operating frequency than an unfolded quarter wave coaxial cavity resonator of the same length. Embodiments of the quarter wave coaxial cavity resonator use narrower apertures to reduce radiative losses, and include center conductors that are reactive load elements, such as helical coils. When a radio frequency (RF) oscillation is produced in the quarter wave coaxial cavity resonator, corona discharge plasma is formed at the tip of the center conductor. The corona discharge plasma can be used to ignite combustible materials in combustion chambers of combustion engines. |
| US09638156B2 |
Saddle-ride type vehicle
A saddle-ride type vehicle includes a frame, an engine, a starter motor, a predetermined component, and a coupling member. The engine is supported by the frame. The starter motor is attached to the engine. The predetermined component is disposed adjacent to the starter motor. The coupling member couples the predetermined component to the starter motor. |
| US09638151B2 |
Flow-through fitting and filter assembly
A flow-through fitting and filter assembly is provided including a fitting body with a cavity, and a filter coupled to fitting body and positioned within the cavity. The filter includes a filter support and a filter element mounted on the filter support. A first end portion of the filter support is of a generally cylindrical cup shape including an outer annular wall in close sliding relationship the inner wall forming a fitting cavity to provide a guiding function while passages in the first end portion provide relief of fluid from the end of the cavity. A second end portion of the filter support includes an outer annular surface having an outer annular diameter greater than the inner annular diameter of the inner annular surface of the fitting body to create an interference fit and a fluid seal. |
| US09638150B2 |
Outboard motor
An outboard motor includes an engine cover including an upper cover and a lower cover which form an engine room and which can be separated from each other vertically, the lower cover has a bottom wall and a circumferential wall which extends upward from an outer circumference of the bottom wall, an external air inlet through which to introduce air into the engine room is provided adjacent to the outer circumference of the bottom wall, and an inside wall extends upward from the bottom wall alongside the circumferential wall so as to be opposed to the circumferential wall with the external air inlet interposed between the inside wall and the circumferential wall. |
| US09638148B2 |
Air intake chamber for saddled vehicle
An air intake chamber for a motorcycle is disposed downstream of a supercharger, for pressurizing and supplying an intake air to an engine, and upstream of a throttle body, for controlling the amount of the intake air to be supplied to an air intake port of the engine. The air intake chamber serves to accumulate the high pressure intake air discharged from the supercharger. The air intake chamber is provided with an injector, which has a fuel injecting port positioned at a location displaced from an axis of an outlet of the air intake chamber. |
| US09638146B2 |
Gasoline direct-injection engine
A gasoline direct-injection engine is provided. The engine performs compression self-ignition combustion, and includes a cylinder, an injector, intake and exhaust ports, intake and exhaust valves, and an ozone generating system for generating ozone inside the cylinder. The system includes an electrode projecting into the cylinder while being partially electrically insulated from walls of the cylinder, and a high-voltage control device for applying a controlled pulse-shaped voltage to the electrode. When the voltage is applied, electric discharge occurs between the non-insulated part of the electrode and the walls of the cylinder, and ozone is generated inside the cylinder due to an effect of the electric discharge. A combustion pattern is provided, in which a compression stroke injection is performed and mixture gas formed by the fuel injection self-ignites to combust. When the combustion pattern is applied, the high-voltage control device is operated on intake stroke or the compression stroke. |
| US09638145B2 |
Fuel-vapor leakage detector
A housing receiving a switching valve, a pressure sensor, and a pump includes a tubular portion having an inner wall provided with a support portion into which an attachment portion is inserted. The pump includes a pump portion and a motor portion which are connected to the attachment portion. The support portion receives an elastic member abutting on the attachment portion. The elastic member prevents a vibration generated due to an operation of the pump from being transmitted to the tubular portion. Since the pump is supported by a cover through a pressure detection pipe including a pressure detection passage and is supported by the tubular portion through the elastic member and the support portion, the pump prevents from vibrating by its weight. Therefore, a noise radiated out of the housing due to the vibration transmitted from the pump to the housing can be reduced. |
| US09638140B2 |
Low pressure valve, for controlling exhaust gas recirculation
A low pressure valve for controlling exhaust gas recirculation in an internal combustion engine for a vehicle includes a housing, which contains a channel section for exhaust gas guidance, and a valve element disposed in the housing to control the exhaust gas passage in the channel section. An actuating drive is mounted on the housing and adjusts the valve element. The actuating drive is formed of an electromagnetic rotary actuator with a drive shaft thereof. The drive shaft is routed in an extended manner out of a rotary actuator housing and is in the form of an actuating shaft. The actuating shaft extends continuously to the housing and protrudes into the housing transversely to the flow direction, engages therein at the valve element in a non-rotatable manner and can be rotationally adjusted about the axis to actuate the valve element. |
| US09638135B2 |
Fuel shut-off solenoid system
A fuel system that in at least some implementations includes a carburetor having a fluid passage, a solenoid, a valve, a driver circuit and a control circuit. The valve may be moved by the solenoid between an open position permitting fluid flow through the fluid passage and a closed position at least partially inhibiting fluid flow through the fluid passage. The driver circuit and control circuit are communicated with the solenoid to contribute to providing power to the solenoid and controlling actuation of the solenoid. The driver circuit and control circuit provide a first magnitude of power to the solenoid to initially change the solenoid from its closed position to its open position and a second magnitude of power to maintain the solenoid in its open position wherein the second magnitude of power is less than the first magnitude. |
| US09638134B2 |
Carburetor
A carburetor comprises a rotation-typed control valve which opens or closes a second bleed air passage according to an opening degree of the throttle valve. The control valve includes an upper end portion of a valve stem, and in a projection plane orthogonal to an axis of an aspirating channel, a first bleed air passage is arranged on one side of the valve stem, an upstream-side passage portion starting from the control valve of the second bleed air passage is arranged on an upper side of the aspirating channel, a downstream-side passage portion starting from the control valve of the second bleed air passage is arranged on the one side of the valve stem, and a downstream end of the downstream-side passage portion is connected to a midway portion of the first bleed air passage. |
| US09638133B2 |
Ceramic matrix composite liner attachment
An attachment structure and ceramic matrix composite liner combination for a gas turbine engine has a ceramic matrix composite liner including plural flanges extending away from a face of said liner. The flanges have an opening and a bracket secured to the flanges by a securement member extending through the opening in the flange, and through an opening in the bracket. The flanges are secured to the securement member through at least one washer having a spherical face facing a spherical recess in the flanges. |
| US09638122B2 |
Method to diagnose SCR catalyst
Methods and systems are described for an engine with a SCR system including NOx sensors upstream and downstream of catalyst. One method includes monitoring SCR performance via calculating SCR conversion efficiency at different catalyst temperatures. Further, feedgas NOx levels are artificially increased when SCR device temperature is above a threshold to obtain more reliable readings from NOx sensors. |
| US09638121B2 |
System and method for deactivating a cylinder of an engine and reactivating the cylinder based on an estimated trapped air mass
A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a cylinder activation module and a spark control module. The cylinder activation module selectively deactivates and reactivates a cylinder of an engine. The cylinder activation module deactivates the cylinder after intake air is drawn into the cylinder and before fuel is injected into the cylinder or spark is generated in the cylinder. When the cylinder is reactivated, the spark control module selectively controls a spark plug to generate spark in the cylinder before an intake valve or an exhaust valve of the cylinder is opened. |
| US09638119B2 |
Control apparatus and control method for an internal combustion engine
A basic EGR flow rate calculation part calculates a basic EGR flow rate based on an intake manifold pressure, which is a pressure in an intake manifold, an exhaust pressure, which is a pressure in an exhaust pipe, an exhaust temperature, which is a temperature in the exhaust pipe, and an opening degree of an EGR valve. An EGR flow rate correction part corrects the basic EGR flow rate based on an intake manifold pressure ratio, which is a ratio between the intake manifold pressure and the exhaust pressure, and an exhaust VVT phase angle of an exhaust VVT mechanism, to thereby calculate a corrected EGR flow rate as an EGR flow rate. |
| US09638114B2 |
Boat engine idling revolution number control device and method
Provided is a boat engine idling revolution number control device, which includes a control unit (30) for performing control so that an engine revolution number converges to a target revolution number based on a result of detection of an engine state. The control unit includes: a decelerating running determining section (314); and a running-load correction calculating function section (315) for calculating a running-load correction signal for correcting a basic torque rate based on the result of determination by the decelerating running determining section and a shift position state detected by the neutral switch. The running-load correction calculating function section resets the running-load correction signal to zero when detecting, based on a behavior of the engine revolution number after the running-load correction, that the engine revolution number is larger than a threshold value calculated based on the target revolution number and the engine revolution number increases. |
| US09638112B2 |
Method of controlling a power train of a vehicle and device for carrying out said method
The present invention relates to a method and device for controlling a vehicle, more particularly, the power train of a compacting machine for earth moving operations, comprising a hydraulic travel pump and a hydraulic travel motor. Control is effected according to a specified control profile when a specified driving operation is to be carried out in that an adjustment of the travel pump is carried out which is independent of the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine. This makes it possible to retain, on the one hand, the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine in the case of abrupt stops of movement or changes in the direction of movement and, on the other hand, to adapt the rotational speed of the engine in the case of somewhat longer uninterrupted pauses between two changes in the traveling behavior, wherein comparatively large fluctuations in the rotational speed are avoided. |
| US09638111B2 |
Providing oxidation to a gas turbine engine
A gas turbine engine includes a compressor for compressing air from an environment; a combustor for receiving the compressed air from the compressor, mixing the compressed air with fuel, and combusting the fuel; a turbine coupled with the compressor for receiving exhaust gas from the combustion and powering the compressor; and an injector coupled with a source of oxidizer for injecting the oxidizer into the combustor. A method for operating a gas turbine engine includes compressing air from an environment; receiving the compressed air at a combustor; mixing the compressed air with fuel; injecting oxidizer into the combustor in addition to the air from the environment; combusting the fuel with the compressed air and the oxidizer; receiving exhaust gas from the combusted fuel; and powering the compression of the air from the environment using the exhaust gas. |
| US09638107B2 |
Gas turbine accessory gearbox incorporating decoupling means
A gas turbine AGB has a front lateral face, a rear lateral face opposite from the front lateral face, and a peripheral rim closing the box. At least one gear train is mounted in the AGB and is made up of a plurality of gearwheels meshing together, and designed to be coupled to a drive shaft for driving an accessory. The AGB further comprises, mounted between a central shaft carrying each gearwheel and the drive shaft, a decoupling unit for decoupling the accessory and constituted by a dog clutch having axial teeth co-operating with complementary teeth of the central shaft. The dog clutch includes internal fluting engaged with the corresponding external fluting of the drive shaft. The decoupling unit is controlled by an electric actuator acting on the movement of a plunger pin having one end co-operating with an outer helical groove in the dog clutch. |
| US09638105B2 |
Turbine engine incorporating thermoelectric generators
A front-fan turbojet engine including at least one fluid circuit and an air/fluid heat exchanger by which the fluid is cooled by air external to the turbojet engine and a splitter for splitting a flow downstream of the fan between a primary flow and a secondary flow. The heat exchanger is associated with a thermoelectric generator including a first and a second thermal exchange surface, of which the first surface is in thermal contact with the airflow and the second surface is in thermal contact with the fluid to be cooled in the exchanger. |
| US09638103B2 |
Plasma flow control inlet particle separator system
An inlet particle separator system for an engine includes a hub section, a shroud section, a splitter, and a plasma flow control actuator. The shroud section surrounds at least a portion of the hub section and is spaced apart therefrom to define a passageway having an air inlet. The splitter is disposed downstream of the air inlet and extends into the passageway to divide the passageway into a scavenge flow path and an engine flow path. The plasma flow control actuator is coupled to the hub section and is disposed between the air inlet and the splitter. |
| US09638098B2 |
Bypass mechanism for an exhaust system
A bypass mechanism is disclosed for use with a turbocharger. The bypass mechanism may have an exhaust passage formed by at least a first wall, and a bypass manifold formed by at least a second wall surrounding the exhaust passage and including a space between the first wall and the second wall. The bypass mechanism may further have at least one opening in the first wall fluidly connecting the exhaust passage with the space. At least one valve is configured to open and close the opening to selectively allow exhaust gas to pass from the exhaust passage to the space through the at least one opening. The space may be fluidly connected to at least one entry passage of an exhaust stack. In addition, the at least one opening and the at least one entry passage may be positioned on opposite sides of the exhaust passage. |
| US09638096B2 |
Vehicle control apparatus
A vehicle is equipped with an internal combustion engine having a forced-induction apparatus with variable boost pressure, a first motor generator for generating electricity while applying negative torque to the engine, and a battery for storing the electricity generated by the first motor generator. During the operation of the engine, a target boost pressure is set lower as the rotational speed of the first motor generator is increased. The engine is controlled such that, with the boost pressure adjusted to the target boost pressure, the output torque of the engine has a required value determined by the accelerator operation amount. Further, while the output torque of the engine is adjusted to the required value, the magnitude of the negative torque by the first motor generator acting on the engine is adjusted such that the engine rotational speed has a target value. |
| US09638090B2 |
Apparatus and method for improving efficiency of alternator for vehicle
An apparatus for improving efficiency of an alternator for a vehicle includes a controller connected to the alternator by LIN communication to determine whether the alternator enters a high temperature condition. The controller operates a cooler to cool an inside of an engine room if it is determined that the alternator enters the high temperature condition. |
| US09638089B2 |
Gasket assembly
A gasket assembly has a middle layer located between an upper layer and a lower layer. The middle layer includes spacer portions that at least partially surround a gap. The gap, the spacer portions and the layers may have insulating and/or conducting portions as needed. |
| US09638088B1 |
Noise arresting system
A noise arresting system includes a landscape maintenance implement that has an internal combustion engine and the internal combustion engine has an exhaust. A resonator has a first end, a second end and a peripheral wall extending therebetween. The first end and the second end each is open and the resonator is substantially hollow. An intake pipe is insertably positioned within the first end. The intake pipe is fluidly coupled to the exhaust to reduce a sound level of the exhaust. An exhaust pipe has a primary end, a secondary end and a flexible section extending between the primary end and the secondary end. The primary end is insertably positioned within the second end. The flexible section is bendable to direct the secondary end away from the resonator at a selected angle. |
| US09638086B2 |
Leak detection method of reducing agent pumping system
A leak detection method of a reducing agent pumping system including a reducing agent tank, an injector, a line formed through the reducing agent tank and the injector, and a pumping module disposed in the line may include pumping a reducing agent to the injector with a pump of the pumping module and detecting a pressure thereof, operating the pump at a predetermined load or less and stopping an operation of the injector, when it is determined that a detected pressure is between a first set value and a second set value, operating a heater for heating the reducing agent in the pumping module for a predetermined time, and determining that leak occurred in the line between the pumping module and the injector, when it is determined a temperature of the reducing agent in the pumping module is lower than a predetermined value. |
| US09638082B2 |
Fluid control valve device
A fluid control valve device includes a seal part disposed to a valve part. The seal part is elastically deformable and contacts a valve seat when a fluid passage is closed to intercept fluid from passing through the fluid passage. The valve seat has a surface opposing the seal part, a first projection part projected from the surface toward an upper surface of the seal part and having an annular shape, and a second projection part projected from the surface toward the upper surface of the seal part on a radially outer side of the first projection part. When the fluid passage is closed by the valve part, the first projection part is in tight contact with the seal part, and the second projection part is configured to collide with the seal part. |
| US09638073B2 |
Valvetrain for an engine
Valvetrain of an internal combustion engine, including a rocker support, a fulcrum, and a rocker. The rocker support is mounted to a cylinder head and fixed relative thereto. The rocker is positioned about the rocker support and partially in an axial aligning groove of the rocker support. The fulcrum is sandwiched between the rocker support and the rocker. The rocker oscillates about the fulcrum as forces are received and applied to a first and a second end of the rocker. |
| US09638071B2 |
Method for manufacturing a roller, adapted to equip a mechanical system forming a cam follower or a rocker arm
A method for manufacturing a roller, adapted to equip a mechanical system forming a cam follower or a rocker arm. The roller is centered on a central axis and comprising: an outer cylindrical surface adapted to roll on a cam, an inner cylindrical bore adapted to receive a pin belonging to the mechanical system, and two lateral faces extending radially to the central axis. The method includes a machining step forming circular grooves that are concentric with each other on at least one of the lateral faces of the roller. The roller can be installed within a mechanical system. |
| US09638066B2 |
Rankine cycle apparatus and combined heat and power system
A Rankine cycle apparatus includes a pump, an evaporator, an expander, and a condenser. The evaporator has a plurality of heat transfer tubes arranged in rows in a flow direction of a high-temperature fluid to be heat-exchanged with a working fluid. The heat transfer tube located in a most upstream row in the flow direction of the high-temperature fluid is defined as a most upstream heat transfer tube. For example, the most upstream heat transfer tube forms an inlet of the evaporator so that the working fluid flows into the evaporator through the inlet and first passes through the most upstream heat transfer tube. |
| US09638065B2 |
Methods for reducing wear on components of a heat engine system at startup
Provided herein are heat engine systems and methods for starting such systems and generating electricity while avoiding damage to one or more system components. A provided heat engine system maintains a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) within the low pressure side of a working fluid circuit in a liquid-type state, such as a supercritical state, during a startup procedure. Additionally, a bypass system is provided for routing the working fluid around one or more heat exchangers during startup to avoid overheating of system components. |
| US09638062B2 |
Geared turbofan engine with integral gear and bearing supports
A gas turbine engine includes a bearing. A bearing support includes a first wall that extends between the first and second ends and is operatively supported by the bearing at a first end. An engine case is secured to the second end radially outward of the first end. A flexible support is provided by a second wall integral with and extending transversely from the first wall. The second wall has a first flange and a gear train component is secured to the first flange. |
| US09638059B2 |
Exhaust-gas turbocharger
In the generic exhaust-gas turbocharger, the turbine-side and compressor-side radial bearing bush are of identical design. A more compact bearing space, and improvements in acoustics and rotor dynamics, are achieved by providing different bearings on the turbine and compressor sides. |
| US09638055B2 |
Cooling hole cleaning method
Blockages of turbomachine cooling circuit cooling holes resulting from coating processes can be removed by introducing a cleaning agent into the cooling circuit. The cooling circuit can be connected to a cleaning agent supply under pressure, adding force on the blockage to chemical action by the cleaning agent. The cleaning agent is chemically reactive with the coating material and substantially chemically non-reactive with the underlying material of the cooling circuit and other parts of the turbomachine. A neutralization agent can also be introduced to reduce toxicity and/or action of the cleaning agent. A turbomachine cooling hole cleaning method includes introducing a cleaning agent into a cooling circuit of a turbomachine part, pressurizing the cleaning agent in the cooling circuit until a first defined condition is met, and introducing a neutralization agent to the turbomachine part while the cleaning agent is applied to the cooling circuit. |
| US09638051B2 |
Turbomachine bucket having angel wing for differently sized discouragers and related methods
A turbomachine bucket may include an airfoil, a shank coupled to the airfoil, and an angel wing coupled to the shank, the angel wing having an axially extending tip sized to seal with a plurality of discouragers, each discourager having a different axial extent. Various methods for modifying an angel wing to accommodate different sized discouragers are also disclosed. |
| US09638050B2 |
Axial compressor, gas turbine with axial compressor, and its remodeling method
An axial compressor includes: a rotor as a rotational shaft, rotor blades mounted on the rotor, a compressor casing that covers the rotor and the rotor blades, and stator vanes mounted on the compressor casing. The rotor blades and the stator vanes are each disposed in a circumferential direction of the rotational shaft to form a rotor-blade cascade and a stator-vane cascade, respectively. The rotor-blade cascade and the stator-vane cascade are arranged in plural rows, respectively, in an axial direction of the rotational shaft. The stator vane has a dovetail, and the compressor casing has a dovetail groove that extends in the circumferential direction of the rotational shaft to receive the dovetail inserted therein to fix the stator vanes. Two or more stator vanes, the stator vanes belonging to stator-vane cascades different from each other, are fixed in the dovetail groove. |
| US09638048B2 |
Systems and methods of constructing composite assemblies
A method of constructing a cured composite assembly includes positioning a composite assembly within a bonding tool, wherein the composite assembly comprises an uncured composite spar and a skin and performing a curing cycle on the composite assembly to simultaneously cure the uncured composite spar and bond the skin to the cured composite spar. |
| US09638042B2 |
Turbine engine comprising a metal protection for a composite part
A gas turbine engine including at least a first composite part configured for mounting in a second metal part of the engine, the first composite part including an interface surface configured to be in surface contact with the second metal part, the engine including a metal protection removably mounted on the first composite part and configured to cover the interface surface. |
| US09638041B2 |
Turbine bucket having non-axisymmetric base contour
Various embodiments of the invention include turbine buckets and systems employing such buckets. Various particular embodiments include a turbine bucket having: an airfoil having: a suction side; a pressure side opposing the suction side; a leading edge spanning between the pressure side and the suction side; and a trailing edge opposing the leading edge and spanning between the pressure side and the suction side; and a base connected with a first end of the airfoil along the suction side, pressure side, trailing edge and the leading edge, the base including a non-axisymmetric contour proximate a junction between the base and the airfoil. |
| US09638037B2 |
Method of balancing a gas turbine engine rotor
A method of balancing a gas turbine engine rotor, including axisymmetrically removing an annular portion of the balancing flange exceeding that required to provide the unbalance correction, and creating the unbalance correction by non-axisymmetrically removing material from the balancing flange. In one embodiment, the configuration of a theoretical notch in the balancing flange that would create the unbalance correction is determined. The unbalance correction is created by removing material from the balancing flange to create a protuberance protruding radially from a remainder of the balancing flange, the protuberance having a height corresponding to the depth of the theoretical notch, a circumferential width corresponding to the arc angle of the theoretical notch, and a circumferential position diametrically opposed to the circumferential position of the theoretical notch. A gas turbine engine rotor is also discussed. |
| US09638031B2 |
Method of controlling well bore pressure based on model prediction control theory and systems theory
A method for controlling well bore pressure based on model prediction control theory and systems theory, includes: detecting a well bottom pressure, a stand pipe pressure, a casing pressure, an injection flow rate and an outlet flow rate during the drilling operation process and determining the presence of overflow or leakage; if there is no overflow or leakage, then fine-adjusting the wellhead casing pressure according to the slight fluctuations of the well bottom pressure, the stand pipe pressure or the casing pressure; if there is overflow or leakage, simulating and calculating the overflow or leakage position and starting time of the overflow or leakage, predicting the variation over a future time period of the well bore pressure in the well drilling process, and utilizing an optimization algorithm to calculate the control parameter under a minimum of an actual well bottom pressure difference during the future period. |
| US09638030B2 |
Receiver for an acoustic telemetry system
One embodiment includes a method comprising receiving an acoustic signal that is propagated along a drill string. The method also includes correlating the acoustic signal to a first stored acoustic signal representing a first symbol, wherein the first stored acoustic signal is acquired from a propagation along the drill string in an approximately noise free environment. |
| US09638027B2 |
Antenna for downhole communication using surface waves
An assembly can include a casing string with an outer surface. The assembly can also include an antenna for wirelessly communicating data by generating a surface wave that propagates along an interface surface. The antenna can be positioned coaxially around the casing string. The antenna can include a cylindrically shaped conductor that is positionable coaxially around an outer surface of a casing string for generating a magnetic field component of the surface wave that is non-transverse to a direction of propagation of the surface wave along the interface surface. The antenna can also include a pair of conductive plates positioned at an angle to the cylindrically shaped conductor for generating an electric field component of the surface wave. |
| US09638023B2 |
Determining stresses in a pipe under non-uniform exterior loads
Systems and methods for determining stresses in pipe under non-uniform exterior loads to test the pipe design for structural integrity by approximating non-uniform exterior loads on the pipe and performing a stress analysis of the pipe under the non-uniform exterior loading to determine the stresses in the pipe. |
| US09638021B2 |
Pump deployment via cable
A method can include providing a pump connected to a power cable with a smooth surface; providing a stuffing box with a valve configured to form a seal with the smooth surface of the power cable in a closed state and to form a passage for the pump as connected to the power cable in an open state; providing a lubricator; providing a blow-out protector with a valve configured to form a seal with the smooth surface of the power cable in a closed state and to form a passage for the pump as connected to the power cable in an open state; and controlling the states of the valves while lowering the pump via the power cable through the stuffing box, the lubricator, and the blow-out protector to position the pump into a bore of a well. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09638020B2 |
System and method for kicking-off a rotary steerable
A method and system for steering a rotary steerable tool in a borehole. A method includes determining an azimuthal angle between a reference direction and a reference point on a direction determination component of a tool string. The direction control component is remote from the rotary steerable tool. The azimuthal angle and a time at which the angle was determined are communicated to a rotary steerable tool direction control system. A steerable shaft of the rotary steerable tool is deflected based on the azimuthal angle and the time at which the angle was determined, thereby directing the rotary steerable tool in a predetermined direction. |
| US09638016B2 |
Methods of treating subterranean formations with fluids comprising proppant containing particle
A method is provided for treating at least a portion of a subterranean formation. The method includes introducing a treatment fluid including a composite particle, which includes proppant incorporated into or attached to a swellable material and/or swellable materials, into a subterranean formation via a wellbore; and increasing the buoyancy of the composite particle including proppant by either mixing it with a treatment fluid or mixing it with a treatment fluid and triggering the swellable material and/or swellable materials to swell. |
| US09638014B2 |
Open ended inverted shroud with dip tube for submersible pump
A well pump assembly includes rotary pump and a submersible motor. A shroud surrounds the pump intake and the motor. The shroud has an open upper end in fluid communication with the pump intake for drawing well fluid along an upper flow path down the shroud into the pump intake. A dip tube is secured to and extends downward from a junction with a lower end of the shroud. The dip tube is in fluid communication with the pump intake and has an open lower end for drawing well fluid along a lower flow path up the dip tube to the pump intake. The upper flow path has a minimum flow area that is smaller than a minimum flow area of the lower flow path. The dip tube has a smaller outer diameter than an outer diameter of the shroud. |
| US09638008B2 |
Expandable bullnose assembly for use with a wellbore deflector
A well system includes a deflector arranged within a main bore of a wellbore and defining a first channel that exhibits a predetermined diameter and communicates with a lower portion of the main bore, and a second channel that communicates with a lateral bore. A bullnose assembly has a bullnose tip, a piston movably arranged within the bullnose tip, and a wedge member operatively coupled to the piston such that movement of the piston correspondingly moves the wedge member. A coil is arranged about the bullnose tip and in contact with the wedge member, and the piston is actuatable to move the wedge member and thereby radially expand the coil. When the coil is radially expanded, the diameter of the bullnose tip exceeds the predetermined diameter. |
| US09638007B2 |
Elevator grip assurance
An interlock device for connection within a load path of a tubular support device to lock the tubular support device in a closed position in response to detecting a load suspended from the tubular support device. The interlock device includes a first member moveably connected to a second member and a biasing mechanism operationally connected to the first member and the second member providing a load setting resisting movement of the first member and the second member relative to one another. The first and the second member may be rotationally locked with one another to transmit rotation across the interlock device to the elevator. |
| US09638006B2 |
Safety system for wells having a cable deployed electronic submersible pump
A safety system for a well having a cable deployed electronic submersible pump includes a barrier valve having a control line for opening and closing the valve, a first flapper safety valve assembly, and a second flapper safety valve assembly. The second flapper safety valve allows the cable for the pump to pass through the second flapper safety valve when the valve is in a closed position. An integral flapper safety valve assembly incorporates the first and second flapper safety valves. |
| US09638001B2 |
Method for producing hydrocarbon gas from a wellbore and valve assembly
The present invention provides a method for producing hydrocarbon gas from a wellbore and a control valve assembly for said wellbore. The wellbore comprises a wellhead, a production zone, a production tubing, and a velocity string installed inside the production tubing. The method comprises allowing gas to flow from the production zone through the velocity string, said gas forming a primary gas stream, and controlling the flow of gas from the annulus between the outer wall of the velocity string and the inner wall of the production tubing to the primary gas stream by means of the control valve wherein a controlled mass flow of said gas is combined with the primary gas stream. |
| US09637998B2 |
Subsea safety valve system
A valve system for ensuring well closure upon exposure to a predetermined condition even where a well access line is disposed through the valve. This system may be configured with a supplemental power supply capable of effectuating a cutting closure of the valve. Thus, any obstructing well access line such as coiled tubing may be cut during closure to ensure sealing off of the well, even if the cutting mechanism is separated from its traditional power supply by shear or parting of a portion of the landing string. Once more, the supplemental power sufficient for a cutting closure is only provided in the event of a predetermined condition such as the emergence of a potentially hazardous tubular separation. |
| US09637997B2 |
Packer having swellable and compressible elements
A packer has a swellable element and has end rings and compressible elements at each end of the swellable element. The packer may be first set using internal bore pressure to compress one of the compressible elements against one of the end rings with a first hydraulic setting mechanism. The packer may then be set a second time using annulus pressure to compress against the other compressible element with a second hydraulic setting mechanism. Either way, the compressible elements are compressed to expand out to the borehole and to limit extrusion of the swellable element outside the compressed elements. |
| US09637993B2 |
Hydra-connector
A hydraulic connector for a wellhead hub is provided that includes a piston and a bottom portion configured to move in an axial direction via hydraulic pressure applied to one or more hydraulic ports in the connector. The movement of the piston and the bottom portion moves a ring and a segment of the connector in a radial direction to engage recesses in the wellhead hub. The connector may be unlocked by applying hydraulic pressure to a hydraulic port of the connector. A system and method of operating the connector are also provided. |
| US09637992B2 |
Downhole spear having mechanical release mechanism for use in wellbores and methods of using same
A downhole retrieval tool for engaging and retrieving an object from a wellbore includes a mandrel and a grapple having a contracted position and an expanded position. In the expanded position, the grapple engages the object for retrieval. The grapple is operably associated with an expansion member disposed on the mandrel to facilitate movement of the grapple between the contracted and expanded positions. The expansion member is releasably connected to the mandrel. In the event that the downhole tool and object, once secured to each other, are unable to be retrieved from the wellbore, the expansion member can be released from the mandrel which, in turn, causes the grapple to release from the object so that the downhole tool can be removed from the wellbore. A stored energy member facilitates movement of the grapple from the contracted position to the expanded position. |
| US09637987B2 |
Coring system including tensiometer and method of deciding accurate coring using the same
The present invention relates to a coring system and a determining method that can determine whether accurate coring was achieved. A coring system according to the present invention includes: a coring part with a core to be filled with an object to be cored; a driving unit controlling upward/downward movement of the coring part; a rope connecting the coring part with the driving unit; and a tensiometer measuring tension in the rope. |
| US09637986B2 |
Temperature compensated element and associated methods
A temperature actuated element includes a mandrel, a housing coupled to the mandrel, the housing defining a fluid expansion chamber. A piston is positioned within the fluid expansion chamber. A thermally expanding fluid is positioned within the fluid expansion chamber. An end ring coupled to the piston slides along the mandrel in response to a sliding of the piston. A degradable ring is coupled to the mandrel to prevent movement of the end ring before the degradable ring is dissolved. A packer having a first end and a second end, the first end adapted to slide along the mandrel in response to a sliding of the end ring, and the second end fixedly coupled to the mandrel, so that a sliding of the first end of the packer toward the second end causes the packer element to decrease in length and increase in radius. |
| US09637985B2 |
Packer release compaction joint
Certain aspects are directed to a device designed to relieve compression in a length of pipe. The device provides a load ring that can absorb and isolate load until a shear sleeve is shifted and shear pins are sheared. A specific aspect provides a packer release compaction joint that has a shifting sleeve having a first internal shoulder configured to engage a shifting tool; a shear sleeve having a raised abutment; a load ring mounted on the shear sleeve, the load ring having an outer diameter and positioned forward of the first side of the raised abutment; a snap ring mounted around the outer diameter of the load ring. Action of a shifting tool against the first internal shoulder of the shifting sleeve causes the snap ring to move away from the load ring and move to the second side of the raised abutment. |
| US09637983B2 |
Casing connection
A casing connection is provided having a first sub with a first circular radius face and a second circular radius face. A second sub is provided having a third circular radius face and a threaded profile on at least a portion of an outside surface of the second sub. An adjusting collar is further provided having a fourth circular radius face and a threaded profile on at least a portion of an inner surface of the adjusting collar. Sealing surfaces are formed at connections between the first circular radius face and the fourth circular radius face, the second circular radius face and the third circular radius face and the second sub threaded portion and the adjusting collar threaded portion. Bendability and rotatability of the casing connection is adjustable by tightening or loosening said threaded connection between said second sub and said adjustable collar. |
| US09637981B2 |
Wellbore component life monitoring system
Wellbore component life monitoring system. A life of a component in a wellbore can be monitored by periodically receiving a load value of a load while the load is being applied to a component in a wellbore. While the load is being applied to the component in the wellbore, a fatigue on the component caused by the load can be periodically determined based, at least in part, on the periodically received load value. |
| US09637977B2 |
Methods and apparatus for wellbore construction and completion
The present invention relates methods and apparatus for lining a wellbore. In one aspect, a drilling assembly having an earth removal member and a wellbore lining conduit is manipulated to advance into the earth. The drilling assembly includes a first fluid flow path and a second fluid flow path. Fluid is flowed through the first fluid flow path, and at least a portion of which may return through the second fluid flow path. In one embodiment, the drilling assembly is provided with a third fluid flow path. After drilling has been completed, wellbore lining conduit may be cemented in the wellbore. |
| US09637975B2 |
Adaptable platform for loading and unloading railway cars
An apparatus that provides a platform for selectively deployable worker access with fall protection to at least a portion of the top of a container disposed above the ground. The apparatus includes a gate and a ladder extension that selectively operates in an extended mode and a retracted mode with respect to the gate and with respect to an emergency egress ladder extending beneath the platform. |
| US09637970B1 |
Double breakout sliding door system
The present invention relates to a double breakout sliding door system for use in retail and other buildings. The system includes left and right doors that are configured to slide open and closed and also breakout in two directions (outward and inward) when a force is exerted on the doors in order to, for example, allow customers and employees to exit a building in the event of a fire and to prevent damage to the doors in the event that a user pushes on them when they are closed. The system also includes a leveling system configured to keep the doors level when they breakout and a ball detent mechanism to alert the user to the proper position of the doors. |
| US09637969B2 |
Integrated window regulator assembly
A rattle mitigation assembly for a window regulator installed in a vehicle door includes drive unit housing having a port with a mouth of a cylindrical cavity adapted to receive a connector of a sheathed cable; a profiled end face extending around the mouth; and a slot extending radially outward from the cylindrical cavity, along the cylindrical cavity and through the end face. The end face forms a radially sloped ramp profile configured to exert a radial bias on a compression spring surrounding the connector and abutting the end face. An optimal slope angle of the ramp for urging the spring in the radial direction lies in the range of 45° through 80° with respect to a plane extending radially relative to the cylindrical cavity. An optional wedge profile with an increasing elevation along a direction away from the radially sloped ramp profile may be arranged opposite the ramp profile to exert an axial bias on the compression spring. |
| US09637965B1 |
Proactive vehicle doors to prevent accidents
This solution will help to detect oncoming traffic and/or nearby external objects when the vehicle door is being opened, and it would automatically stop the vehicle door from opening further if there is a possibility of an accident involving the vehicle doors or its users. This solution will notify vehicle users using an indicator on the vehicle door and/or an existing notification systems in vehicle that vehicle door has been restricted from opening further due to potential of an accident. This invention also has an external alert mechanism, which would generate alert externally that vehicle door is about to be opened, and therefore, help to prevent accidents. This invention will also comprise of an artificial intelligence module within the proactive vehicle door system, where such module would constantly gather data, analyze and provide proactive suggestions or even take necessary actions in order to help prevent any vehicle door related accidents. |
| US09637963B1 |
Hinged connector device
A hinged connector device for hingedly connecting portable wall units together. The hinged connector device includes a first connector assembly including a first engagement member for engaging a first portable wall unit; and a second connector assembly including a second engagement member in pivotable communication with the first engagement member for engaging a second portable wall unit and for connecting the portable wall units together. |
| US09637959B2 |
Security gate latch system
A gate is mounted to pivot about a pivot axis between opened and closed positions. A latch is provided to retain the gate in a doorway-closing position in a doorway formed in a door frame. |
| US09637958B2 |
Device for unlocking a door
Device for unlocking a door, comprising at least one operating element; a bolt; a coupling which can be placed in the door and which is coupled between the bolt and the operating element, wherein the coupling comprises a pair of scissor arms mounted rotatably around a fixed shaft, and a pair of pivot arms, wherein each pivot arm is connected at a first end for pivoting around a first shaft to a scissor arm and connected at a second end for pivoting around a second shaft to a push part intended to engage against the bolt, such that a tilting of the operating element brings about a movement of the push part, and thus of the bolt. |
| US09637954B2 |
Vehicle door outer handle structure
A door opening prevention mechanism includes a lever member rotatable relative to a base member and swingable in a vehicle inside-and-outside direction, and an urging member to bias the lever member toward a set position. The lever member is held in the set position when an outer handle is located in a door closing position when a given inertial force does not act in a vehicle outside direction during a vehicle collision, and swings in the vehicle outside direction from the set position to be moved to a locked position against an urging force of the urging member when the inertial force acts. When the lever member is in the set position, movement of a connection lever in a door opening direction is allowed. When the lever member is located in the locked position, movement of the connection lever in the door opening direction is restricted. |
| US09637948B2 |
Ram assembly on top of tent
Disclosed is a ram assembly for use on the top of a tent where tops of supporting rods of the tent are connected to a top connecting seat. The ram assembly includes at least one ram connected to the top connecting seat and located between two adjacent supporting rods. The ram assembly supports an eave tarpaulin and allows the eave tarpaulin to unfold. The eave tarpaulin is located on the top of the tent and between at least the two adjacent supporting rods. An outer edge of the cave tarpaulin sleeves on the ram. The ram assembly is an elastic telescopic rod. |
| US09637945B2 |
Air beam system for an air beam structure for shielding against airborne projectiles
A tethermast and frag wall includes a fabric device having a fill volume fillable with a fill material on a flexible or compliant mast system. The fill volume may be a chambered curtain. The tethermast and frag wall is self supporting, easily deployed, and may be used in connection with a structure or may be deployed stand-alone. A tether system for an air beam structure utilizing a flexible tethermast, an external frag wall or frag curtain, soft couplings, air beam slings, or combinations thereof to reduce the effects of pressure waves, such as blast waves, onto and into an air beam structure and any inhabitants. |
| US09637944B2 |
Method for assembling decreasing section concrete towers for wind turbines and associated wind turbines
The present invention relates to a method for assembling concrete towers with a decreasing sector for wind turbines which comprises a phase of pre-assembly of concrete tower sections which allows to reduce the space required during the stage of pre-assembly of the different tower section prior to lifting and the civil work associated to set said space up wherein, during the pre-assembly phase, a first annular section is confined at least partially within the inner space defined by a second annular section, the invention also relating to the wind turbine associated to said method of assembly. |
| US09637941B2 |
Method of monitoring a low water volume within a water circulation system
A method of monitoring a low water volume within a water circulation system is disclosed that includes detecting an auxiliary measurement associated with an ancillary device fluidly coupled with a reservoir of water in a water circulation system and then determining whether the ancillary device is performing under a low water volume operation. The low water volume operation is based upon a comparison between at least the detected auxiliary measurement of the ancillary device and a condition associated with a performance of the ancillary device under the low water volume operation. |
| US09637938B2 |
Assembly of formwork, and graduated anchoring system
The invention relates to an anchoring system for a wall formwork and to a method for an assembly of the anchoring system: • the two wall formworks (1, 2, 3, 40) are set up opposite from each other, • an anchoring rod (4) with a graduation (21) is pushed through anchoring rod bores of the two wall formworks (1, 2, 3, 40) in such a way that the end of the anchoring rod (4) that has not been pushed through has the graduation (21), • the pushed-through end of the anchoring rod (4) is connected to a locking device (41) present on the rear side of the one formwork (40), • the end of the anchoring rod (4) that has not been pushed through is connected to the locking device (5, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15) provided here in such a manner that this connection is aligned with the selected graduation, • the locking device aligned with the graduation is connected to the adjacent wall formwork (1, 2, 3). |
| US09637932B2 |
Railing and baluster plug system
A railing and baluster plug system that facilitates installation of balusters at a plurality of angular orientations, such as installations for level railing and installations for non-level or angled railings such as for stairs. The baluster plugs are configured to cooperate with the balusters and include both a level mounting surface and an angled mounting surface for alternatively mounting the balusters in a level or an angled orientation. |
| US09637926B2 |
Membrane roofing
A foam roofing underlayment is provided with a reinforcement membrane having an array of fastener elements for engaging fastener elements on a flexible roof membrane. The underlayment is formed by molding foam between the reinforcement membrane and a carrier membrane. The underlayment in secured to the roof using washers having fastener elements for engaging the fastener elements of the flexible roof membrane. An anti-peel flap with fastener elements is provided around the periphery of the washers. A slip sheet is used between the underlayment and the flexible roof membrane to permit accurate positioning of the flexible roof membrane prior to engagement of the fastener elements. The interstices between the fastener elements provide lateral moisture paths to vents in the flexible roof membrane. |
| US09637925B2 |
Strand chair for supporting prestressing cable
A strand chair for supporting a prestressing cable in a cement cast. The strand chair contains a lower cup for receipt of a lower prestressing cable as well as an upper cup for supporting an upper prestressing cable. The strand chair utilized the pressures of the stressed cables to support and position a reveal which runs along the casting bed. Furthermore, the strand chair supports the placement of rebar utilized in the cement casting. |
| US09637924B2 |
Reinforcing
Reinforcing is disclosed comprising a reinforcing bar extending along a portion of the length of the reinforcing and a termination extending along an end portion of the reinforcing. The termination may have a body extending in a longitudinal direction and a lateral engagement face formed on the body. The engagement face may incorporate locking formations thereon arranged to interfit with a complementary shaped termination to form an interlock arranged to accommodate loading applied in the longitudinal direction. |
| US09637923B2 |
Composite structural member, method for manufacturing same, and connecting assemblies for composite structural members
A structural member having a longitudinal axis comprises: an exterior shell member defining an elongated channel with an inner surface; an interior shell member having an outer surface and defining an inner channel, inserted in the elongated channel of the exterior shell member and extending longitudinally therein and defining an inter-shell spacing therebetween; and concrete filling the inter-shell spacing and including at least one reinforcement bar having a longitudinally extending section extending in the inter-shell spacing and being disconnected from the inner surface of the exterior shell member and from the outer surface of the interior shell member. |
| US09637922B1 |
Collapsible truss
A collapsible truss and method that is particularly suitable for staging and lighting, for shows, performances and other events. This evolved and novel modular truss can be collapsed to a significantly smaller size (i.e. increased density), and consequently requires significantly less space for storage and transportation. Further, in addition to the advantage of rapid assembly from collapsed parts to a full truss, the modular construction of the truss provides cost effective repair of this truss over traditional rigid welded trusses by simple replacement of damaged parts. |
| US09637918B1 |
Cross runner to main runner anchor clip
A roll formed sheet metal main runner and a roll formed sheet metal cross runner intersecting the main runner from one side at a slot in the main runner, the cross runner having a sheet metal end connector extending through the slot, the connector having a lateral projection with a rearwardly facing edge and a hole rearward of the projection at which the connector is fixed to the cross runner, a stamped sheet metal anchor clip with a tongue projecting through the slot and a base connected to the tongue on a side of the main runner opposite the cross runner, the tongue having a relief area aligned with the connector projection, an edge abutting the connector projecting edge, and a hole aligned with the connector hole, and a fastener through both of said connector and tongue holes securing said clip to said connector. |
| US09637915B1 |
Factory fabricated precompressed water and/or fire resistant expansion joint system transition
A fire and/or water resistant expansion joint system for installation into a building joint in vertical and horizontal configurations is designed such that it can be used for either an inside or outside corner. The system comprises a core having a fire retardant infused therein. A layer of an elastomer is disposed on the core and is tooled to define a profile to facilitate the compression of the expansion joint system when installed between coplanar substrates. The system can be delivered to a job site in a pre-compressed state ready for installation into the building joint. |
| US09637906B1 |
Urine attachment for toilets
The urine attachment for toilets is a device that includes a mounting bracket that is configured to attach onto a toilet. The mounting bracket supports a telescoping funnel that is adapted to be urinated in and which directs urine along a conduit, and into a toilet bowl. The mounting bracket includes a mounting member that is adapted to interface with a bottom surface of a toilet tank, and which is affixed to a mounting conduit. The mounting conduit extends from the mounting member over to a rotating disk. The rotating disk is adapted to be positioned adjacent a toilet rim of a toilet bowl. The rotating disk enables the conduit that extends from the telescoping funnel to be adjusted. |
| US09637904B2 |
Multi-spray bidet
A bidet includes one or more water sources, a generally elongate wand, and a spray head. The wand is configured to communicate water from the one or more water sources to the spray head. The spray head is configured to spray the water received from water sources, and the spray head is also configured to releasably couple to the wand by being received through an upper surface of the wand into a receptacle thereof. |
| US09637901B2 |
Method for setting parameters
A method for setting at least one parameter on an actuation element (1) for triggering a function, in particular flushing, on a sanitary system, wherein the actuation element (1) comprises at least two actuation sensors (2, 3) for detecting an input of a user and at least two optical display elements (4, 5). The actuation element (1) is transferred from an operating mode (B) into a setting mode (E), in which said parameters can be set, with the simultaneous activation of at least two actuation sensors (2, 3) over a preset time interval (T1). |
| US09637896B2 |
Jet regulator comprising an impingement surface having ring walls
A jet regulator (1), having a perforated plate (5) arranged therein with throughflow holes (6) extending through the perforated plate for dividing the water flowing therethrough, including a central, non-perforated impingement surface (14) on the perforated plate (5), which non-perforated impingement surface is surrounded by a first annular wall (15), which has passage openings (16) that are oriented in a radial direction and extend through the first annular wall, wherein a respective throughflow hole (6), which extends through the perforated plate (5) and is connected to the respective passage opening (16), is provided on the side of each passage opening (16) arranged in the impingement surface plane. The annular wall (15) is surrounded by an annular ring chamber (29) on the outer circumferential side. A flow regulator (30) or a throttling device (300) is provided in front of the impingement surface (14) in the flow direction of the water, whereby the water consumption is restricted and/or the water flow rate becomes largely independent of the particular water pressure. Furthermore, a second annular wall (33), which has a smaller diameter than the first annular wall and is arranged at a distance from the first annular wall, is provided coaxially and concentrically to the first annular wall (15), which second annular wall has radial passage openings (34) arranged at a distance above the impingement surface (14), through which radial passage openings the water has access to the first annular wall (15) and to the passage openings (16) of the first annular wall and thus to the throughflow holes (6). Through this combination, the water flow rate through the jet regulator becomes practically independent of the water pressure upstream of the jet regulator (1). |
| US09637895B2 |
Intelligent control faucet
An intelligent control faucet includes a faucet that includes a manual operation valve, an intelligent control module, a water egress tube, a cold water ingress tube, a hot water ingress tube, and a magnetic reed detection device. The water egress tube, the cold water ingress tube, and the hot water ingress tube are connected to the manual operation valve. The intelligent control module is connected, in a series manner, to the water egress tube. The magnetic reed detection device is mounted to the water egress tube and is connected through a feeding cable or directly to the intelligent control module. Water flow can be established or cut off through pulling the water egress tube so that the use is made easy. |
| US09637892B2 |
Vertical faucet structure
A pressure gauge structure contains: a body, a positioning sleeve, outlet unit, a fixing member, and a guiding seat. The body includes a chamber and an abutting rib, and the abutting rib has a circular orifice and a noncircular locating rim. The positioning sleeve includes a locking portion retaining with the noncircular locating rim of the body, and the positioning sleeve also includes a connecting hole defined in the top thereof and aligning with the circular orifice. The outlet unit includes a coupling section inserted into the connecting hole from the circular orifice. The fixing member includes an aperture and is fitted and engaged in the positioning sleeve and connected with the coupling section to guide rotation of the outlet unit and to limit removal of the coupling section from the body. The guiding seat is fixed in the chamber and retains with the positioning sleeve. |
| US09637891B2 |
Management server for working machine and management method for working machine
A management server for a working machine, including: a reception unit that receives a sensor output from a working machine; a regular report creation unit that creates, for each predetermined period of time, a regular report indicating an operation state of the working machine within the predetermined period of time based on the sensor output; an emergency report creation unit that creates at least one emergency report upon detecting abnormality data representing abnormality of the working machine based on the sensor output; an important report creation unit that creates an important report upon detecting predictive data indicating a sign of the abnormality based on the sensor output; and a delivery unit that delivers the regular report, the at least one emergency report, and the important report, respectively, to a regular report delivery target, an emergency report delivery target, and an important report delivery target. |
| US09637888B2 |
Construction equipment
A compact excavator includes: a swing post which is attached to a upperstructure and which can swing in a left/right direction, a working device which is attached to the swing post and which includes a boom cylinder, a counterweight, and hydraulic hoses which extend upwards between opposite side plates of the swing post, and through which pressure oil for driving the boom cylinder of the working device is guided. The compact excavator further includes a guide plate which is provided in the swing post, and which guides the hydraulic hoses downwards while restricting the hydraulic hoses from moving to approach a handrail when the hydraulic hoses attempt to expand toward the handrail due to driving of the working device. |
| US09637885B2 |
Safety device for use in well
The safety device is to be installed in a well. The safety device is has a support structure that is arranged to be lowered at least partly into the well and that restricts the movement of the safety device in the horizontal direction. A collar is in connection with the support structure and arranged to be set against the ground to restrict the movement of the safety device in the vertical direction, with a protective structure arranged on the collar to define a safe working area around the well. |
| US09637882B2 |
Method and apparatus for making an expanded base pier
A system for constructing a support column includes a mandrel with an upper portion and a tamper head. A feed tube extends through the mandrel for feeding flowable material to the head. The tamper head includes a lower enlarged chamber with a reducing surface at an upper portion and includes a plurality of chain links for compacting material and restricting upward flow of aggregate. The tamper head is of a size providing an enclosed region for allowing cementitious materials to be placed therein. A non-moveable sealed top plate and a separate flowable material supply tube is included via a sealed connection. A pressure gauge for monitoring air pressure within the tube portion is included and allows a support column including a cementitious inclusion on top of an expanded base to be built with a known unitary expanded base volume calculated based on pressure drop indications. |
| US09637875B2 |
Stripping device comprising a stripping bar for a ground milling machine, stripping element for a stripping bar, and ground milling machine comprising a stripping device
The present invention relates to a stripping device for a ground milling machine, comprising a stripping plate comprising a bottom plate edge and a stripping bar comprising at least one stripping element disposed on the bottom plate edge, wherein form-fitting elements are present on the at least one stripping element and on the stripping plate, which form-fitting elements at least partially interlock in complementary fashion and prevent displacement of the at least one stripping element. The present invention further relates to a stripping element for such a stripping device, and to a ground milling machine having such a stripping device. |
| US09637873B2 |
Sensing system for road construction equipment
A sensing system for road construction equipment that includes a mounting bracket secured to a road construction vehicle that has an RFID tag. A wireless sensor is provided with an RFID reader so that when the wireless sensor is secured in the mounting bracket the RFID scanner is adjacent the RFID tag and scans and reads the RFID tag sending location information of the wireless sensor to a master controller. |
| US09637869B1 |
Method for facilitating detecting and tracking movement across an area
A method of facilitating monitoring and interdicting of targets crossing through an area comprising first mixing a luminescent pigment and a soil stabilizer, second loading the mixture into a spray dispenser, third dispensing the mixture in a substantially continuous coating covering a swathe of ground, and fourth monitoring said continuous coating covering said swathe of ground for disturbances in the continuity of said swathe. |
| US09637865B2 |
Method for producing polyacrylamide composition
Disclosed is a method for producing an aldehyde crosslinked polyacrylamide composition useful for strengthening paper. The method includes steps, wherein a) an aldehyde crosslinker and polyacrylamide are mixed in water to form an aqueous solution of aldehyde crosslinked polyacrylamide prepolymer; b) acid is added to the aqueous prepolymer solution to adjust the pH of the solution to a value between 1 to 5; c) storing and transporting the prepolymer solution to the location where the final glyoxalated polyacrylamide composition will be used; and d) adding a base to the stabilized prepolymer solution to adjust the pH of the solution to value between 5.5 to 12, and e) allowing the aldehyde crosslinker and polyacrylamide contained in the aldehyde crosslinked polyacrylamide prepolymer solution to react further and form aldehyde crosslinked polyacrylamide composition useful for strengthening paper. |
| US09637863B2 |
Sheet manufacturing apparatus and sheet manufacturing method
A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes: a defibrating unit which defibrates a raw material including at least fibers; an addition unit which adds an additive agent to a defibrated material which is defibrated in the defibrating unit; and a sheet forming unit which forms a sheet by bonding the plurality of fibers to each other via the additive agent. According to a history of the raw material, an amount of the additive agent which is fed by the addition unit varies. In addition, there is provided a sheet manufacturing method, including: defibrating the raw material which includes at least fibers; adding the additive agent to the defibrated material; and bonding the plurality of fibers to each other via the additive agent. According to the history of the raw material, a feed amount of the additive agent with respect to the raw material varies. |
| US09637860B2 |
Sheet manufacturing apparatus
A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a defibrating unit configured to defibrate a stock material including fibers, a screening unit configured to allow a defibrated material that has been defibrated at the defibrating unit to pass through a plurality of openings, and a forming unit configured to form a sheet by using a passed material that has passed through the openings. The screening unit has a sieve unit having the openings, and a transferring unit that is located below the sieve unit and with which the cross-sectional area of an internal space in a horizontal direction decreases going downward. |
| US09637858B2 |
Laundry treating apparatus
The laundry treating apparatus includes a door to open and close the introduction port about a first rotational or a second rotational axis which is different from first rotational axis. A first switching unit is provided in the door to allow rotation of door about the first rotational axis, and a second switching unit is provided in the door to allow rotation of the door about the second rotational axis. A lock fixes a position of at least one of the first switching unit or second switching unit when the door opens the introduction port. As can be appreciated, the mechanism used for the laundry apparatus may be applicable to other home appliances or non-home appliances where two different rotational axes may be needed to open and close a door. |
| US09637856B2 |
Laundry washing machine
A laundry washing machine includes an outer casing provided with a front wall, two side walls, a rear wall and a top wall, a washing tub arranged inside the casing directly facing a laundry loading/unloading opening realized in the front wall of the casing, a rotatable drum arranged in an axially rotating manner inside the washing tub and structured for receiving the laundry to be washed, a detergent dispenser which is housed inside the casing between the washing tub and the top wall of the casing and is structured for feeding into the washing tub a detergent, softener and/or other washing agent mixed with fresh water arriving from the water mains, a water softening device which includes water softening agents for reducing the hardness degree of the fresh water supplied to the washing tub, and a regeneration-agent reservoir which is housed inside the casing and is structured for receiving salt or other regeneration agent for performing a regeneration of the water softening agents. The detergent dispenser is provided with a first inlet which is exposed or exposable to the outside on the front wall of the casing. The regeneration-agent reservoir is housed inside the casing between the detergent dispenser and one of the side walls of the casing, and is provided with an independent second inlet which is exposed or exposable to the outside of the casing. |
| US09637855B2 |
Front loading laundry machine having bellows
A laundry machine includes a cabinet with a front panel having a laundry loading/unloading opening, and a door. A washing tub is accommodated within the cabinet. A drum is rotatably arranged within the washing tub in such a way that a frontal rim of the drum faces the laundry loading/unloading opening, and a bellows connecting a rim of the laundry loading/unloading opening to the opening of the washing tub. The bellows includes a first and a second lip protruding towards the rotation axis of the drum wherein the first and second lips are each placed to hinder the passage of foreign bodies from the drum to the washing tub through a gap between the drum and the washing tub. The frontal rim of the drum is located between the first and the second lips. |
| US09637852B2 |
Laundry treatment machine and method of operating the same to determine laundry position
Disclosed are a laundry treatment machine and a method of operating the same. The method of operating a laundry treatment machine includes rotating a drum at a first velocity, forcibly vibrating the drum using a forced vibration generation signal during a first velocity rotating section, and determining whether to accelerate or decelerate the drum after forced vibration. Through this method, laundry position may be determined. |
| US09637845B2 |
Rip-stop fabric with mechanical stretch fibers
A ripstop fabric having multi-component polyester filament yarns interwoven into spun yarns in a ripstop pattern. |
| US09637843B2 |
Fabric material
A stainless wire that does not have a crystal grain of 200 nm or greater in maximum length in a surface normal to a fiber axis within a range of 1 μm square from a center of a diameter in a cross section normal to a fiber axial direction is used as the stainless wire that forms a fabric material. |
| US09637840B2 |
Process for improving crystallinity
This invention provides a process for increasing the crystallinity of at least one solid material which is less than 100% crystalline, comprising contacting said solid material with solvent in which the solid material is insoluble or poorly soluble (a non-solvent); and applying ultrasound to the solid material when in contact with said non-solvent. |
| US09637839B2 |
Synthesis and transfer of metal dichalcogenide layers on diverse surfaces
Aromatic molecules are seeded on a surface of a growth substrate; and a layer (e.g., a monolayer) of a metal dichalcogenide is grown via chemical vapor deposition on the growth substrate surface seeded with aromatic molecules. The seeded aromatic molecules are contacted with a solvent that releases the metal dichalcogenide layer from the growth substrate. The metal dichalcogenide layer can be released with an adhered transfer medium and can be deposited on a target substrate. |
| US09637836B2 |
Electrochemical deposition apparatus and methods for controlling the chemistry therein
An electrochemical deposition system is described. The electrochemical deposition system includes one or more electrochemical deposition modules arranged on a common platform for depositing one or more metals on a substrate, and a chemical management system coupled to the one or more electrochemical deposition modules. The chemical management system is configured to supply at least one of the one or more electrochemical deposition modules with one or more metal constituents for depositing the one or more metals. The chemical management system can include at least one metal enrichment cell and at least one metal-concentrate generator cell. |
| US09637835B2 |
Metal composite and method of preparing the same
A method of preparing a metal composite, comprising the steps of: forming an anodic oxidation layer on a surface of a metal substrate; forming a dye layer comprising a dye and a water soluble ink on the anodic oxidation layer, wherein the dye layer has a graduated thickness; and removing the water soluble ink. |
| US09637833B2 |
Copper electroplating solution and method of copper electroplating
A copper plating solution which contains compounds with the structure —X—S—Y— where X and Y are, independently of each other, atoms selected from a group consisting of hydrogen, carbon, sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen, and X and Y can be the same only if they are carbon atoms and aliphatic semialdehydes. By using this copper electroplating solution it is possible to form good filled vias without worsening the appearance of the plating. |
| US09637830B2 |
Capillary photoelectrode structures for photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic cells
Photocatalytic structures having a capillary-force based electrolyte delivery system are provided. Also provided are photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic cells incorporating the structures and methods for using the cells to generate hydrogen and/or oxygen from water. The photocatalytic structures use an electrolyte-transporting strip comprising a porous network of cellulose nanofibers to transport electrolyte from a body of the electrolyte to a porous photoelectrode or a porous photocatalytic substrate via capillary force. |
| US09637825B2 |
High-temperature long lifespan electrode for electric dual layer capacitor and method of manufacturing the same
A high-temperature long lifespan electrode includes a through type aluminum sheet, a plurality of first hollow protrusion members protruded to one side of the through type aluminum sheet, a plurality of second hollow protrusion members protruded to the other side of the through type aluminum sheet, a metal protection layer coated on the through type aluminum sheet, the plurality of first hollow protrusion members, a first active material sheet bonded to one surface of the through type aluminum sheet, and a second active material sheet bonded to the other surface of the second surface of the through type aluminum sheet. |
| US09637821B2 |
Method for supplying vaporized precursor
A method for supplying vapor to a chamber includes providing a first diverter valve that, when open, diverts vapor away from the chamber, and a second diverter valve that, when open, supplies the vapor to the chamber; supplying a carrier gas to the chamber; after supplying the carrier gas, creating plasma in the chamber while a substrate is in the chamber; opening the first diverter valve and closing the second diverter valve; supplying the vapor by vaporizing at least one liquid precursor in a carrier gas; after a first predetermined period sufficient for the vapor to reach steady-state flow, closing the first diverter valve and opening the second diverter valve to supply the vapor to the chamber; and after a second predetermined period following the first predetermined period, opening the first diverter valve and closing the second diverter valve to stop supplying the vapor to the chamber. |
| US09637819B2 |
Methods for preferential growth of cobalt within substrate features
Methods for depositing cobalt in features of a substrate include providing a substrate to a process chamber, the substrate having a first surface, a feature formed in the first surface comprising an opening defined by one or more sidewalls, a bottom surface, and upper corners, and the substrate having a first layer formed atop the first surface and the opening, wherein a thickness of the first layer is greater proximate the upper corners of the opening than at the sidewalls and bottom of the opening; exposing the substrate to a plasma formed from a silicon-containing gas to deposit a silicon layer predominantly onto a portion of the first layer atop the first surface of the substrate; and depositing a cobalt layer atop the substrate to fill the opening, wherein the silicon layer inhibits deposition of cobalt on the portion of the first layer atop the first surface of the substrate. |
| US09637817B2 |
Process roller for receiving and guiding substrates in strip form in vacuum coating installations
A process roller for receiving and guiding substrates in strip form in vacuum coating installations. The process roller comprises a heater located inside the process roller, in the form of an elongated radiant heater, and also a cylindrical lateral surface for receiving a substrate in strip form, the process roller being mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation in a vacuum process chamber. A particularly uniform temperature distribution can be achieved on the process roller's lateral surface by the process roller (2) being configured in a vacuum-tight manner, by the lateral surface (3) of the process roller (2) being connected in a vacuum-tight manner to two end caps (4, 5), which have a flattened, outwardly curved hemispherical form, by the interior space of the process roller (2) being connected to a vacuum connection (6), and by the radiant heater (8) extending into the region of the end caps (4, 5). |
| US09637807B1 |
Synthesis of metal nanoparticles using an extract of terfeziaceae
A method of preparing metal nanoparticles using an extract of desert truffles (Terfeziaceae) includes providing an aqueous solution including a metal salt; and combining an extract of Terfeziaceae with the aqueous metal salt solution to produce the metal nanoparticles. The metal salt can be silver nitrate (AgNO3) and the metal nanoparticles can be silver nanoparticles. The metal nanoparticles can have a mean diameter in the range of from about 5 nm to about 100 nm. The silver nanoparticles can be used as an antimicrobial agent and/or an anti-parasitic agent. |
| US09637802B2 |
Upgrading process streams
Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful intermediates and products, such as energy, fuels, foods or materials. Systems, methods and equipment are described for upgrading process streams using electrodialysis or electrodialysis reversal. |
| US09637798B2 |
Genetic signature of vulnerability to inhibitors of base excision repair (BER) in cancer
The invention relates to the identification of genetic signatures and expression profiles that are a part of the Base Excision Repair (BER) pathway, a major DNA repair pathway that modifies base lesions. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of determining responsiveness of treatment by BER inhibitors for malignant glioma by determining the presence of a low level of expression of Apex 1, a low level of expression of Apex 2, and a high level of expression of MPG. |
| US09637797B2 |
Methods and nucleotide fragments of predicting occurrence, metastasis of cancers and patients' postoperative survival in vitro
Provided in the present invention are a method using in vitro measurement of the content of methylation or demethylation of GFRa1 CpG islands to estimate a risk of tumorigenesis and of tumor metastasis, or postoperative life expectancy, and a nucleotide sequence used. |
| US09637794B2 |
Genetic products differentially expressed in tumors and use thereof
The invention relates to the identification of genetic products that are expressed in association with a tumor and the nucleic acid coding therefor. The invention relates to the therapy and diagnosis of diseases in which the genetic products that are expressed in association with a tumor are expressed in an aberrant manner. The invention also relates to proteins, polypeptides, and peptides which are expressed in association with a tumor and the nucleic acids coding therefor. |
| US09637780B2 |
Controlled inhibition and re-activation of DNA polymerases by cleavable oligonucleotide inhibitors
A hot start enzyme composition is described that includes a hot start nuclease, a nucleic acid polymerase, and a substantially double-stranded oligonucleotide that inhibits the catalytic activity of the nucleic acid polymerase at temperatures lower than the melting temperature of the oligonucleotide. |
| US09637779B2 |
Antisense transcriptomes of cells
Transcription in mammalian cells can be assessed at a genome-wide level, but it has been difficult to reliably determine whether individual transcripts are derived from the Plus- or Minus-strands of chromosomes. This distinction can be critical for understanding the relationship between known transcripts (sense) and the complementary antisense transcripts that may regulate them. Here we describe a technique that can be used to (i) identify the DNA strand of origin for any particular RNA transcript and (ii) quantify the number of sense and antisense transcripts from expressed genes at a global level. We examined five different human cell types and in each case found evidence for antisense transcripts in 2900 to 6400 human genes. The distribution of antisense transcripts was distinct from that of sense transcripts, was non-random across the genome, and differed among cell types. Antisense transcripts thus appear to be a pervasive feature of human cells, suggesting that they are a fundamental component of gene regulation. |
| US09637776B2 |
Methods of identifying an organism
This disclosure features methods of identifying an organism. The methods include: (a) obtaining a nucleic acid sample from an organism; (b) imaging said nucleic acid; (c) obtaining a restriction map of said nucleic acid; and (d) correlating the restriction map of said nucleic acid with a restriction map database, thereby identifying the organism. |
| US09637775B2 |
System and method for processing biological samples
A system and method for processing and detecting nucleic acids from a set of biological samples, comprising: a molecular diagnostic module configured to receive nucleic acids bound to magnetic beads, isolate nucleic acids, and analyze nucleic acids, comprising a cartridge receiving module, a heating/cooling subsystem and a magnet configured to facilitate isolation of nucleic acids, a valve actuation subsystem including an actuation substrate, and a set of pins interacting with the actuation substrate, and a spring plate configured to bias at least one pin in a configurations, the valve actuation subsystem configured to control fluid flow through a microfluidic cartridge for processing nucleic acids, and an optical subsystem for analysis of nucleic acids; and a fluid handling system configured to deliver samples and reagents to components of the system to facilitate molecular diagnostic protocols. |
| US09637774B2 |
Glycosylated modified flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent glucose dehydrogenases, compositions thereof as well as methods of making and using the same
Compositions, devices, kits and methods are disclosed for assaying glucose with a glycosylated, modified flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent glucose dehydrogenase (FAD-GDH), variant thereof or an active fragment thereof, where at least one asparagine residue at positions N2, N168 and N346 of mature, wild-type A. oryzae FAD-GDH according to SEQ ID NO:2 is substituted by one or more amino acids not suitable for glycosylation, thereby eliminating or inactivating, respectively, a potential glycosylation site at this position. |
| US09637773B2 |
Compounds and methods for detection of enzymes that remove formyl, succinyl, methyl succinyl or myristoyl groups from ε-amino lysine moieties
Provided is a compound that comprises the structure: where SIG is a signaling molecule and R3 is a formyl, a succinyl, a methyl succinyl, or a myristoyl. Also provided is a kit is provided that comprises the above compound, with instructions for determining the presence of the enzyme. Additionally, a method is provided for determining whether a sample has an enzyme that removes a succinyl, a methyl succinyl, a formyl, or a myristoyl moiety from an ε-amino of a lysine. Also provided is a method of determining whether a molecule inhibits an enzyme that removes a succinyl, a methyl succinyl, a formyl, or a myristoyl moiety from an ε-amino of a lysine. |
| US09637770B2 |
Methods and devices for handling biofouling
Provided is a biosensor including a scaffold and a dye complex, the dye complex including a clay material associated with a dye material, where the dye complex is at least partially embedded in the scaffold. Also provided is a process for preparing the biosensor, an apparatus including the biosensor and methods for detecting viable microorganisms in an aqueous fluid test sample making use of the biosensor, for predicting biofouling in a fluid flowing system and for determining a concentration of disinfectant required to disinfect an aqueous fluid. |
| US09637764B2 |
Methods of producing 7-carbon chemicals via carbon chain elongation associated with cyclohexane carboxylate synthesis
This document describes biochemical pathways for producing pimelic acid, 7-aminoheptanoic acid, 7-hydroxyheptanoic acid, heptamethylenediamine or 1,7-heptanediol by forming two terminal functional groups, comprised of carboxyl, amine or hydroxyl group, in a C7 aliphatic backbone substrate. These pathways, metabolic engineering and cultivation strategies described herein rely on the carbon chain elongation enzymes or homologs thereof associated with the cyclohexane carboxylate biosynthesis from Syntrophus aciditrophicus or 2-aminoadipate lysine biosynthesis. |
| US09637761B2 |
Recombinant microorganism metabolizing 3,6-anhydride-L-galactose and a use thereof
The present invention relates to a recombinant microorganism metabolizing 3,6-anhydro-L-galactose and a use thereof, and, more particularly, can produce ethanol from a recombinant microorganism expressing an enzyme group involved in a metabolic pathway of 3,6-AHG. |
| US09637760B2 |
Process for producing a biocrude employing microalgae
This invention refers to a procedure for obtaining a biocrude from greenhouse gases, a procedure which is advantageous industrially and continuous. By means of said procedure it is possible to capture, convert and revalue CO2, among other greenhouse gases, in an efficient manner, in such a way that a net negative balance is obtained, which in other words means that with this procedure it is possible to capture more CO2 than is generated which makes it beneficial and sustainable in the environment. |
| US09637755B2 |
Method for plant improvement using a transgene containing the BETL9 promoter driving expression of the MRP1 protein
The invention relates to the field of plant improvement, in particular of the improvement of yield for plants, by using a transgene containing the BETL9 promoter driving expression of the MRP1 protein. |
| US09637744B2 |
Methods and pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria
The present invention relates to methods and pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of Erythropoietic Protoporphyria. In particular, the present invention relates to a method for increasing the amount of functional FECH in a erythroid cell carrying the hypomorphic allele IVS3 48C/T (rs2272783) in trans to a deleterious mutation in the FECH gene comprising the step of consisting of bringing the erythroid cell into contact with at least one antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) comprising the sequence as set forth by SEQ ID NO: 2 (5′ gcagcctgagaaatgtttt 3′) to prevent splicing of the cryptic exon inserted into the mutant IVS3 48C/T (rs2272783) FECH mRNA. |
| US09637742B2 |
Nucleic acid molecules inducing RNA interference, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to an RNAi-inducing nucleic acid molecule having a new structure and the use thereof, and more particularly to a novel nucleic acid molecule having a structure comprising a first strand, which is 24-121 nt in length and comprises a region complementary to a target nucleic acid, and a second strand which is 13-21 nt in length and has a region that binds complementarily to the region of the first strand, which is complementary to the target nucleic acid, so that the nucleic acid molecule inhibits the expression of a target gene with increased efficiency, and to a method of inhibiting the expression of a target gene using the nucleic acid molecule. The nucleic acid molecule structure of the present invention increases the efficiency with which the nucleic acid molecule inhibits the target gene. Alternatively, the nucleic acid molecule of the present invention can either increase the ability of the siRNA to bind to the target gene or cause synergistic cleavage, by introduction of antisense DNA, antisense RNA, ribozyme or DNAzyme, thereby increasing the efficiency with which the nucleic acid molecule inhibits the target gene. In addition, when the nucleic acid molecule according to the present invention is used, the efficiency with which the target gene is inhibited can be maintained for an extended period of time. Accordingly, the RNAi-inducing nucleic acid molecule of the present invention can be effectively used for the treatment of cancer or viral infection in place of conventional siRNA molecules. |
| US09637731B2 |
Heavy metal stabilization and methane inhibition during induced or naturally occurring reducing conditions in contaminated media
A method for inhibiting methane production in naturally occurring or induced reducing conditions, thus subsequently resulting into inhibition of the biomethylation process of the heavy metals is disclosed. The disclosed inhibiting composition blocks 3-hydroxy-3-ethylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, and 8-hydroxy-5-deazaflavin (coenzyme F420) in the methane production pathway, due to the presence of lovastatin in the red yeast rice. As a result the methanogens are unable to produce enough quantities of methane that will result to the production of methylmetal(loids), which are usually volatile and more toxic than their inorganic counterparts due to increased water solubility and hydrophobicity. |
| US09637730B2 |
Innovative discovery of therapeutic, diagnostic, and antibody compositions related to protein fragments of histidyl-tRNA synthetases
Provided are compositions comprising newly identified protein fragments of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, polynucleotides that encode them and complements thereof, related agents, and methods of use thereof in diagnostic, drug discovery, research, and therapeutic applications. |
| US09637724B2 |
Selective binding of biological targets to solid phase ureides
A method of selectively separating a biological target from a sample including the biological target material or suspected of including the biological target includes the steps of (i) providing a solid including ureide moieties at its surface, (ii) contacting the sample with the solid, whereby a substantial fraction of the biological target in the sample binds to the ureide moieties, and (iii) separating the solid from the sample. |
| US09637719B2 |
Devices and methods for purification of biological cells
This invention relates to devices and methods for purifying biological cells. For example, viable tumor, stem, immune and sperm cells can be purified from a complex biological sample using a column, including a pipette tip column. Cells can be purified in a sealed chromatographic system. Methods of the invention can aid research, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. |
| US09637718B2 |
Methods and devices to control fluid volumes, reagent and particle concentration in arrays of microfluidic drops
The present invention includes a microfluidic device comprising one or more parking loops 12, each parking loop 12 comprising a bypass channel 14 and a lower branch 16 capable of retaining one or more drops, wherein bypass channel 14 has a smaller hydrodynamic resistance than the lower branch 16. |
| US09637717B2 |
Method and apparatus for the use of micro-carriers in a disposable bioreactor system
A system and method for compartmentalizing micro-carriers in a bioreactor includes a container configured to store micro-carriers and a vessel configured to contain a fluid so as to prevent the micro-carriers from entering the vessel during sterilization, shipping, storage, or other pre-use handling of the system. One or more addition lines connect the container and the vessel such that the vessel is in fluid communication with the vessel. The one or more addition lines are contactable by at least one blocking element configured to reversibly block fluid flow between the container and the vessel. The container, addition lines, and vessel are configured to allow the micro-carriers to be injected into the vessel at any point during a cell culture run. The vessel may also include a rotatable wheel, a harvest port configured to allow for the removal of the micro-carriers from the vessel, and a media removal port comprising a retention screen for removing spent medium. |
| US09637715B2 |
Cell culture and invasion assay method and system
Microfluidic devices, systems, and methods providing for an invasion assay using microfluidic culture systems. |
| US09637713B2 |
Method for rapid maturation of distilled spirits using light and heat processes
An improved system and process for rapidly producing distilled spirits having characteristics associated with a much longer maturation process is provided. The method involves contacting wood with an unmatured distilled spirit under heated conditions and contacting the resulting heat-treated spirit with actinic light. The disclosure provides embodiments where a spirit is sequentially processed through heat and actinic light treatment. The disclosure also provides embodiments where a heat-treated spirit is mixed with a spirit that has been separately treated with light to give characteristics of a mature spirit. |
| US09637708B2 |
Reduced misting and clinging chlorine-based hard surface cleaner
Alkaline sprayable aqueous compositions are disclosed. In particular, sprayable alkaline aqueous chlorine compositions including a surfactant system for modifying the viscosity of the composition, are combined with an alkalinity source and a chlorine source. Methods of cleaning having reduced amounts of airborne particulates of the composition during spray applications are also provided according to the invention, namely reduction of airborne particulates having a micron size of 10 or less within a breathing zone of a user of less than or equal to 60 particles/cm3. |
| US09637706B2 |
Refinement of oils using green tea extract antioxidants
Disclosed are methods of improving the sensory and oxidative stability of oils (e.g., plant and animal oils) by combining an oil and an antioxidant composition comprising green tea extract and deodorizing the oil. Oils prepared by these methods are also disclosed. |
| US09637700B2 |
Compositions comprising estolide compounds and methods of making and using the same
Provided herein are compositions comprising at least one estolide compound of formula: in which n is an integer equal to or greater than 0; m is an integer equal to or greater than 1; R1, independently for each occurrence, is selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; R2 is selected from hydrogen and optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; and R3 and R4, independently for each occurrence, are selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched. Also provided are uses of the compositions described herein. |
| US09637695B2 |
Reactor for producing a product gas from a fuel
Reactor for producing a product gas from a fuel having a housing (11, 12, 13) with a combustion part accommodating a fluidized bed (7) in operation, a riser (2) extending along a longitudinal direction of the reactor (1), and a downcomer (3) positioned coaxially around the riser (2) and extending into the fluidized bed (7). One or more feed channels (8) for providing the fuel to the riser (2) are provided. The riser (2) is attached to the housing (11, 12, 13) of the reactor (1) in a bottom part (13) of the housing (11, 12, 13), and a part of the riser (2) above the one or more feed channels (8) is moveable with respect to the downcomer (3) in the longitudinal direction of the reactor (1). |
| US09637692B2 |
Hydroisomerization catalyst, process for producing the same, method of dewaxing hydrocarbon oil, process for producing hydrocarbon, and process for producing lube base oil
The hydroisomerization catalyst of the present invention is a catalyst used for hydroisomerization of a hydrocarbon, including a support including a calcined zeolite modified with at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Na, K, Cs, Mg, Ca, Ba, and K, and having a thermal history that includes heating at 350° C. or more, and at least one inorganic oxide selected from the group consisting of alumina, silica, titania, boria, zirconia, magnesia, ceria, zinc oxide, phosphorus oxide, and a composite oxide containing a combination of at least two or more of these oxides; and at least one metal supported on the support and selected from the group consisting of elements belonging to Groups 8 to 10 of the periodic table, molybdenum and tungsten. |
| US09637690B2 |
Integrated system for in-situ organic peroxide production and oxidative heteroatom conversion and hydrotreating
An oxidative treatment system, e.g., oxidative desulfurization or denitrification, is provided in which the oxidant is produced in-situ using an aromatic-rich portion of the original liquid hydrocarbon feedstock. The process reduces or replaces the need for the separate introduction of liquid oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide, organic peroxide and organic hydroperoxide in an oxidative treatment process. |
| US09637687B2 |
Infectious medical waste treatment system
An infectious medical waste treatment system includes system control means that electrically interlocks and integrally controls an infectious medical waste treatment apparatus, a cake cutting device, a cake shredding device, a flake conveying device, a flake temporary storage tank, a sealed-type flake supplying device, a heating, dry distilling and gasifying apparatus, a gas cooling and liquefying apparatus, an exhaust gas treatment apparatus, unburnt gas burner and an unburnt gas combustion apparatus. |
| US09637684B2 |
Composition and liquid crystal display element using same
Provided is a composition which has a liquid phase over a wide temperature range, a low viscosity, an excellent solubility at low temperature, high specific resistance, high voltage retention rate, and stability against heat or light, and further a liquid crystal display element of, for example, such as an IPS type or a TN type, which has excellent display qualities by using the composition, and in which display defects such as burn-in or drip marks are hardly caused, at a high yield. Provided is a composition including one or more compounds represented by General Formula (i), one or more compounds represented by General Formula (M-1), and one or more compounds represented by General Formula (M-4), and a liquid crystal display element using the composition. |
| US09637683B2 |
Photosensitive resin composition and display device
A photosensitive resin composition comprising: a solvent in an amount of about 60 percentage by weight (wt %) to about 95 wt %; and a solid content in an amount of about 5 wt % to about 40 wt %, with respect to a total weight of the photosensitive resin composition, wherein the solid content comprises: a phosphor in an amount of about 5 wt % to about 90 wt %; a photopolymerizable compound in an amount of about 4 wt % to about 70 wt %; a photopolymerization initiator in an amount of about 0.1 wt % to about 20 wt %; an alkali soluble resin in an amount of about 5 wt % to about 80 wt %; and a dispersant in an amount of about 0.1 wt % to about 12 wt %, with respect to a total weight of the solid content. |
| US09637682B2 |
Interfused nanocrystals and method of preparing the same
Disclosed herein is a nanocrystal comprising a core comprising a first nanocrystal material, the first nanocrystal material including a Group II-VI semiconductor compound or a Group III-V semiconductor compound; a shell being disposed upon a surface of the core and comprising a second nanocrystal material, the second nanocrystal material being different from the first nanocrystal material and including a Group II-VI semiconductor compound or a Group III-V semiconductor compound; and an alloy interlayer disposed between the core and the shell, wherein the emission peak wavelength of the nanocrystal is shifted into a shorter wavelength than the emission peak wavelength of the core. |
| US09637680B2 |
Method of controlling reservoir particles using electrolytic composite materials
A method of reducing the presence of particles in a downhole environment, comprising contacting sediment particles contained in a downhole environment, with a composition comprising: a metallic composition, an inorganic oxide-based polymer, and a solvent; the contacting occurring in the presence of a fluid capable of decomposing the metallic composition. |
| US09637679B2 |
Multiple hydrophilic head corrosion inhibitors
Compounds comprising multiple hydrophilic heads and a lipophilic tail may be contacted with a metal or other surface so as to adhere to the surface and inhibit corrosion, among other things. Suitable hydrophilic heads may include quaternary ammonium cation moieties, phosphonium cation moieties, and combinations thereof. Such corrosion-inhibiting compounds may be introduced into a wellbore penetrating at least a portion of a subterranean formation, for instance in oil and/or gas recovery operations and the like, whereupon the compound may adhere to a metal or other surface downhole so as to inhibit corrosion of the surface. These compounds may be employed in various other environments, such as any metal or other surface that may be exposed to corrosive conditions. |
| US09637677B2 |
Aqueous cleaning composition and method
An aqueous cleaning composition for removing paraffin, asphaltene, and scale deposits or plugs from a hydrocarbon system. The aqueous cleaning composition is formed of a cleaning composition and an aqueous liquid. The cleaning composition contains about 21-33% of a silicate, about 20-35% of a peroxygen, about 3-15% of a phosphate, about 15-40% of a carbonate or bicarbonate, about 1-10% of a chelating agent, about 1-5.5% of a surfactant combination. In one embodiment, the surfactant combination includes a surfactant polymer mixture containing a block polymer and a reverse polymer, and a wetting agent containing a sulfonated material or an ethoxylated alcohol. |
| US09637676B2 |
Asphaltene inhibitors for squeeze applications
Reaction products of polymeric alkyl phenol formaldehyde resins are useful as additives to inhibit or prevent the deposition or precipitation of asphaltenes in hydrocarbon fluids, particularly crude oil produced from a subterranean formation. These reaction products are formed by reacting a polymeric alkyl phenol formaldehyde resin with a co-reactant having functional groups including, but not necessarily limited to, amines, esters, silanes, ketones, epoxides, alkoxides, aryloxides, halogens, alkali metals, alkali earth metals, acetamides, non-metal oxides, metal oxides, where the co-reactant optionally has a carbon chain length between 1 and 22 and the reaction is conducted in the presence of at least one of various solvents. In one non-limiting embodiment, the co-reactant is a silicon derivative. The asphaltene inhibitors have utility when injected into a subterranean formation while oil production temporarily halts, a process called “squeezing,” because they are retained to a degree in the formation as the crude oil is produced. |
| US09637675B2 |
Use of composites having deformable core and viscosifying agent coated thereon in well treatment operations
Loss of wellbore fluids (such as drilling fluids, completion fluids and workover fluids) into the flow passages of a subterranean formation may be reduced or eliminated by introducing into the wellbore in communication with the formation a composition containing a composite of a deformable core having a hardened coating which contains a viscosifying agent and, optionally, a crosslinking agent. The viscosity of the composition increases in-situ as the viscosifying agent, and optional crosslinking agent, disassociate from the deformable core and react. A fluid-impermeable barrier is thereby formed. The composites may also be used in spacers, well cements, workover and completion fluids as their need arises. |
| US09637669B2 |
Polycrystalline porous Al2O3—bodies on the basis of molten aluminum oxide comprising an increased toughness and use thereof
The present invention relates to temperature-treated polycrystalline porous Al2O3 bodies comprising an amount of α aluminum oxide of more than 97% by weight, an amount of other oxide alloying components of a total of less than 3% by weight, a macroporosity of between 5 and 30% by volume, wherein the Al2O3 bodies are composed of a plurality of Al2O3 primary crystals comprising a crystallite size of between 20 and 100 μm. |
| US09637668B2 |
Structural polyurethane adhesive having a low glass transition temperature
The invention relates to a two-component polyurethane adhesive having high strength and elasticity at a particularly low glass transition temperature, suitable as a structural adhesive. The adhesive according to the invention contains a triol, a diol, a polyamine, a polyisocyanate and a polyurethane polymer having isocyanate groups in certain ratios, and a Fe(III) or Ti(IV) or Zr(IV) or Hf(IV) chelate-complex-catalyst. |
| US09637667B2 |
Reactive polyurethane compositions with a low residual monomer content
The present invention describes reaction products from 2,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate with a content of at least 95 wt. % of 2,4′ isomer with at least one polyether-polyol and/or polyalkylene glycol with a molecular weight of less than 1,000 and/or one crystalline or partly crystalline or vitreously amorphous polyester-polyol and optionally polyester-polyols and/or polyether-polyols which are liquid at room temperature and have molecular weights of greater than 1,000 can be converted into adhesive compositions which have a very low content of monomeric diisocyanate of less than 0.5, preferably less than 0.25 wt. %. Such hot melt adhesive compositions have a high melt stability and a low viscosity, in addition to the low content of monomeric diisocyanate. |
| US09637661B1 |
Polythioaminal dispersions and coatings
Methods of forming and using a polymer dispersion are described herein. The polymer dispersion includes a plurality of polythioaminal microparticles in a fluid medium that does not dissolve the plurality of polythioaminal microparticles. The fluid medium may be aqueous, for example water. The polymer dispersion may be applied to a substrate, and the fluid medium removed, to form an article substantially made of a polymerized polythioaminal mass. The dispersion, and any article made from the dispersion, may include pigments and active ingredients, such as biocides. |
| US09637659B2 |
Latex primer composition and latex primed substrates
A first polymer latex and second polymer latex can be mixed to form a dried primer layer on a substrate to adhere patterned materials having fine lines. The first polymer latex comprises a first polymer and a first surfactant such that a dried coating of the first polymer latex has a surface polarity of at least 50%. The second polymer latex comprises a second polymer and a second surfactant such that a dried coating of the second polymer latex has a surface polarity of less than or equal to 27%. Moreover, a dried coating of the mixture has a surface polarity of at least 15% and up to and including 50%. Primed substrates are useful for preparing electrically-conductive articles having electrically-conductive fine lines directly on a dried primer layer by applying a patterned material to a substrate. Such articles can be used as touch screen displays in various electronic devices. |
| US09637658B2 |
Coatings, coating compositions, and methods of delaying ice formation
A coating includes at least one coating layer containing first particles, second particles, and third particles distributed throughout a cross-linked, continuous polymer matrix. An outer surface of the coating layer includes surfaces of at least first particles extending outward from a top periphery of the polymer matrix. The outer surface exhibits a property of delaying ice formation compared to the coating layer without the first particles. A method includes applying a coating composition in one application step. The one-step coating composition contains first particles, second particles, and third particles in a base containing a polymer. A coating composition includes first particles, second particles, and third particles distributed in a matrix precursor. |
| US09637654B2 |
Ink composition
An ink composition is disclosed herein. The ink composition includes from about 5 wt % to about 25 wt % of a co-solvent; from about 0.025 wt % to about 0.2 wt % of i) a chelating agent represented by formula 1, wherein R′ is a carboxylic acid functional group or a carboxylate salt functional group and n>2; ii) a chelating agent represented by formula 2:, wherein R is a carboxylic acid functional group or a carboxylate salt functional group, m is greater than or equal to 1, x is greater than or equal to 2, y is greater than or equal to 1, and z is greater than or equal to 2; iii) a chelating agent represented by formula 3, wherein any of r, s, t, or u is a sulfonic acid functional group or a sulfonate functional group; or iv) combinations of any of i, ii, and iii. The ink composition also includes a balance of water. |
| US09637653B2 |
Photocurable ink jet recording ink composition and ink jet recording method
Provided is a photocurable ink jet recording ink composition having a low viscosity and excellent curing property and photopolymerization initiator solubility. The photocurable ink jet recording ink composition includes a polymerizable compound and a photopolymerization initiator. The polymerizable compound includes vinyl ether group-containing (meth)acrylic esters represented by Formula (I) in an amount of 20% by mass or more based on the total mass of the ink composition. The photopolymerization initiator includes a bisacylphosphine oxide photopolymerization initiator in an amount of 5% by mass or more based on the total mass of the ink composition and a thioxanthone photopolymerization initiator. The content ratio of the bisacylphosphine oxide photopolymerization initiator to the thioxanthone photopolymerization initiator is from 3:1 to 5:4. |
| US09637651B2 |
Bismuth oxide-based addictive for laser marking
The present invention is directed to a bismuth oxide-based additive for laser marking containing oxygen-deficient bismuth oxide represented by the general formula: Bi2O(3-x) (provided that x is 0.01 or more and 0.3 or less and x represents the amount of oxygen deficiency calculated according to the formula: x=3−O1s/Bi4f×2 from the ratio (O1s/Bi4f) of the peak area attributed to the 1s electrons of oxygen bonded to bismuth to the peak area attributed to the 4f electrons of bismuth obtained by X-ray photoelectron spectrometry), which enables marking with excellent blackness and contrast without causing undesirable coloration of a resin composition regardless of the type or shape of a resin to be used. |
| US09637643B2 |
Method for the production of an optical article with improved anti-fouling properties
Method for the manufacture of an optical article comprising the following steps: —providing a substrate having two main faces and bearing —OH functions on at least one of its faces, —successively exposing in this order one face of the substrate bearing —OH functions to at least 3 distinct materials named M1, M2, M3 and optionally material M4 in a vacuum chamber under conditions resulting in the deposit of those materials on the surface of the substrate, and wherein: —M1 is a substituted silane comprising at least one function X1 directly bonded to a Si atom of the substituted silane, wherein the Si—X1 group is capable of forming a covalent bond with a OH group of the substrate, X1 being preferably a hydrolysable group (such a —NH2 group) or a —OH group directly bonded to the silicon atom and comprising at least one fluorine containing group, —M2 is a substituted silane of number average molecular weight inferior or equal to 900 g/mol comprising at least one function X2 directly bonded to a silicon atom of said substituted silane wherein the Si—X2 group is capable of forming a covalent bond with a —OH group of the substrate and/or a covalent bond with M1, X2 being preferably a hydrolysable group (such a —NH2 group) or a OH group and at least one hydrophobic or oleophobic group, or at least one hydrophilic group, —Wherein M1 has a weight average molecular weight higher than M2 and the difference between M1 and M2 weight average molecular weights is equal to or higher than 600 g/mol, preferably equal to or higher than 900 g/mol. —M3 is a metal fluoride, —Optional M4 is a non fluorinated metal oxide or metal hydroxide. |
| US09637641B2 |
Ultra-bright passivated aluminum nano-flake pigments
Nanothick flakes that are either flat and specularly-reflective in visible light or that have microroughness intentionally controlled to disperse or interfere with visible light. Coatings and inks utilizing such flakes. Method for fabrication of such flakes in partial vacuum includes the repeated multiple times deposition of a release layer over a substrate surface and a flake layer over the release layer to form a multilayer structure further reduced to individual flakes. Reactive metal is passivated inline with the deposition of the flake layer for superior corrosion resistance. Chemically-functional materials are optionally added to the release material to transfer their functionality to the surface of flake layer to create unique functional properties on a flake surface before the multilayer structure is removed from the substrate. |
| US09637639B2 |
Aqueous silica dispersion
The present invention relates to a method of producing a dispersion comprising a) mixing an aqueous dispersion of silanized colloidal silica particles with at least one organic compound containing at least two hydroxyl groups to provide an aqueous dispersion of silanized colloidal silica particles and said at least one organic compound, wherein the mixing is performed in the substantial absence of any monofunctional alcohol b) withdrawing water from the formed aqueous dispersion until the remainder of water in the dispersion is below about 10 wt %. The invention also relates to a dispersion obtainable therefrom and the use of the dispersion. |
| US09637633B2 |
Resin composition and resin molded article
A resin composition includes a polyester resin, an alloyed resin of a polycarbonate resin and an acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber-styrene resin, and an acrylic block copolymer containing a polymer block containing an acrylic acid ester monomer unit and a polymer block containing a methacrylic acid ester monomer unit, wherein a weight ratio of a content of the polyester resin and a content of the alloyed resin is in a range of 5:95 to 50:50, and wherein a content of the acrylic block copolymer is in a range of 0.5% by weight to 10% by weight with respect to a total of the content of the polyester resin and the content of the alloyed resin. |
| US09637628B2 |
Polyethylene compositions and closures made from them
A dual reactor solution process gives high density polyethylene compositions containing a first ethylene copolymer and a second ethylene copolymer and which have good processability, stiffness, and environmental stress crack resistance. The polyethylene compositions are suitable for compression molding or injection molding applications and are particularly useful in the manufacture of caps and closures for bottles. |
| US09637625B2 |
Golf ball material and golf ball
A golf ball material includes (A) one, two or more resin ingredients selected from among olefin-unsaturated carboxylic acid random copolymers, olefin-unsaturated carboxylic acid-unsaturated carboxylic acid ester random copolymers, and metal ion neutralization products of these copolymers, (B) one two or more resin ingredients selected from among polyethylenes, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers and polyesters, and (C) the specific agent for compatibilizing components (A) and (B). |
| US09637624B2 |
Polymer compositions including cellulose ester
Included are polymer compositions including a polymer and about 0.1% to 25% by weight of a cellulose additive. The polymer composition is in the form of a film and the cellulose additive may be a cellulose ester such as cellulose acetate butyrate. |
| US09637621B2 |
Dip-forming composition and dip-formed article
A dip-forming composition which contains a weight average molecular weight 10,000 to 5,000,000 synthetic polyisoprene latex, a polycarboxylic acid and/or salt of a polycarboxylic acid, a sulfur-based vulcanizer, and a vulcanization accelerator is provided. According to the invention, a dip-forming composition which can suppress formation of coarse coagulum during aging and which can give a dip-formed article which is excellent in tensile strength and elongation even when the aging temperature is relatively low and the aging time is relatively short and, further, has excellent safety even when used in contact with the human body can be provided. |
| US09637617B2 |
Environmentally-friendly anti-cracking, anti-corrosive and waterproof material and preparation method therefor
Disclosed are an environmentally-friendly anti-cracking, anti-corrosive and waterproof material and a preparation method therefor, which may solve the following problems of the existing waterproof and anti-corrosive materials: a single function, a poor property, a high cost and a short service life. The waterproof material in the present invention consists of the following components in weight parts: 5-15 parts of synthetic polyester resin, 3-6 parts of penetrant, 1-3 parts of cellulose fiber, 0.1-0.3 parts of cellulose ether, 75-85 parts of solvent. A preparation method of the above waterproof material is also provided. The formulation used in the present invention can have the effects of efficiently protecting indoors and outside, and be used for penetration resistant, waterproof, moisture proof, mildew proof, anti-corrosive, acid and alkali resistant, oil leaking resistant, corrosion resistant, freezing and thawing resistant, anti-cracking, weather and aging resistant, and fouling resistant penetration-type waterproof, anti-corrosive indoors and outside corrosion resistant engineering. |
| US09637616B2 |
Resin composition and resin molded article
A resin composition includes a non-substituted cellulose resin having a weight average molecular weight in a range of 10,000 to 75,000. |
| US09637611B2 |
3D covalent molecular network nanocapsule and preparing method thereof
Disclosed herein are a polymer nanocapsule and a preparing method thereof, and more particularly, a 3D covalent molecular network nanocapsule, and a preparing method thereof. According to the present invention, a nanocapsule having thermal stability and solvent resistance due to a 3D covalent molecular network structure may be easily prepared without performing an additional post-processing process such as addition of a cross-linking agent or catalyst or removal of a template or core. Since the nanocapsule formed as described above may support an organic dye, metal particles, and the like, it is expected that the nanocapsule will be variously applied to material storage and transport, drug delivery, and the like. |
| US09637608B2 |
Biodegradable plastics, method for production thereof and use thereof
The present invention concerns a plastic composition which is biodegradable, and which does not discharge contaminants during incineration or leave plastic fragments after decomposition. According to the invention the composition comprises: (i) 30-50% by weight of a polyester which is biodegradable and/or decayable; (ii) 20-40% by weight of starch from vegetable oil origin from corn, potatoes, and/or sunflower; (iii) 20-40% by weight of a filler composition comprising dolomite and/or calcium carbonate, wherein the filler composition particles have a polished surface; and (iv) 1-5% by weight of a binding agent comprising a resin ester of vegetable origin; wherein said polyester and said starch together form a bioplastic base composition and together comprise 55-79% by weight of the total weight of said plastic composition. The present invention further concerns a method for preparing said plastic composition; a plastic film prepared of said plastic composition; and a waste bag prepared of said plastic film. |
| US09637604B2 |
Sterilized oxygen-absorbing resin composition, sterilized oxygen-absorbing multilayer container and method for producing the same
The present invention provides a sterilized oxygen-absorbing resin composition obtained by performing at least: a sterilizing step of irradiating with radiation an oxygen-absorbing resin composition containing a transition metal catalyst and a thermoplastic resin (a) having a tetralin ring as a constituent unit; and a step of heating the oxygen-absorbing resin composition at a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic resin (a) and equal to or lower than 200° C., after the sterilizing step. |
| US09637602B2 |
BOPP film with improved stiffness/toughness balance
The present invention relates to a new biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film, a process for the preparation of such film as well as the use of a polypropylene for the preparation of such film and an article comprising such film. |
| US09637599B2 |
Imprinted biomimetic catalysts for cellulose hydrolysis
The present disclosure describes methods and biomimetic catalysts useful for hydrolyzing glucose polymers, such as cellulose, and oligomers, such as cellobiose, to glucose for the subsequent production of ethanol. |