| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09644734B2 |
Integrated transmission and auxiliary gearbox control
A powertrain of a vehicle has a drive unit, a transmission and an auxiliary gearbox. Operation of the transmission and the auxiliary gearbox is controlled by a transmission control unit. The transmission control unit controls shifting of the auxiliary gearbox and the transmission while the vehicle is in operation. The auxiliary gearbox may be electronically shifted, independently of activity of the vehicle operator. |
| US09644732B2 |
Sensor device, and a magnet element for a sensor device
A sensor device having at least one sensor element, such as a Hall sensor element, and at least one magnet element that can move in relation to the sensor element. The sensor element has a number of differently magnetized regions. The sensor element is configured to issue a sensor signal, which represents a condition defined by a magnetization of a region of the magnet element located in the measurement range of the sensor element. The sensor element determines the condition by means of one of at least three pre-defined sensor signal values. |
| US09644730B2 |
Demountable coupling system and apparatus
Example embodiments are related to a wheel coupling system for a vehicle. The wheel coupling system according to example embodiments may include a torque transmission element having a rotatable member to generate a torque force and a torque receiver for releasably engaging the torque transmission element. The wheel coupling system may further include a wheel coupled to the torque receiver such that removal of the wheel disengages the torque receiver from the torque transmission element to allow the torque transmission element to remain intact. |
| US09644727B2 |
Wave gear device and hollow rotating actuator
In a wave gear device, the inner race and the boss are fixed together by a laser welded part formed along the entire periphery thereof. The laser welded part also functions as an oil seal for sealing the inner race and the boss. The boss and the inner race are fixed together in a manner that a required axial length is short, and that machining and assembling steps are reduced. Oil seal members are not required to seal the boss and the inner race. |
| US09644726B2 |
Vehicle differential and method of operating the same
A differential and method of operating the differential is described. The differential has side gears and at least one pinion gear in mesh with the side gears. One of the side gears is provided with dog clutch teeth and an axially extending ring carrying clutch plates. A clutch housing has an axially extending ring carrying clutch plates interleaved with the side gear clutch plates. A dog clutch ring is connected to the clutch housing and selectively engages with the side gear dog clutch teeth. The above-described system permits an axle system of a tandem axle system to be selectively engaged and disengaged. |
| US09644724B2 |
Split power infinitely variable transmission architecture incorporating a planetary type ball variator with multiple fixed ranges
A transmission includes an input shaft, an output shaft, at least five planetary gearsets, a variable-ratio unit, and at least five clutches. The at least five clutches are selectively engageable in combination with one another to select one of a plurality of operating modes including at least one reverse mode, at least five forward modes, and at least five transition modes. One of the at least five transition modes is configured to transition the transmission from the at least one reverse mode to one of the at least five forward modes. Another one of the at least five transition modes is configured to transition the transmission from the one of the at least five forward modes to another of the at least five forward modes. Each of the at least five transition modes includes a fixed speed ratio defined between the input shaft and the output shaft. |
| US09644722B2 |
One mode continuously variable transmission
A powertrain for a motor vehicle includes a one mode continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a torque converter connected to a planetary gear set assembly which is connected to a pulley and a chain assembly or other continuously variable unit (CVU). The planetary gear set arrangement generally includes one planetary gear set, one brake and one clutch. The CVU is connected to a final drive unit. The sheaves of the CVU have an involute spline connection. |
| US09644720B2 |
Orientation independent focus mechanisms for laser radar
Focus arrangements for laser radar and other applications provide compensation of orientation-dependent gravitational forces. A linear stage can be preloaded and provided with balanced linear encoders so that gravitational force induced pitch, yaw, and roll can be reduced, detected, or compensated. Alternatively, movable focus elements can be secured to actuator driven spring assemblies that are controlled to compensate orientation-dependent gravitational forces. |
| US09644717B2 |
Continuously variable transmission driving pulley
A centrifugally actuated driving pulley for a continuously variable transmission (CVT) has a movable sheave that is connected to the fixed sheave via a ball spline assembly. Also disclosed is a driving pulley for a CVT having a movable sheave that is connected to the fixed sheave via a ball spline assembly, where at least some of the outer grooves receiving the ball bearings of the ball spline assembly are angularly offset from at least some of the corresponding inner grooves receiving the ball bearings of the ball spline assembly. Also disclosed is a driving pulley for a CVT having a movable sheave that is connected to the fixed sheave via a ball spline assembly, where at least some of the outer and inner grooves receiving the ball bearings of the ball spline assembly have a generally ogival cross-section. A CVT and a vehicle having a CVT are also disclosed. |
| US09644712B2 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for vehicle
A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft receiving torque of an engine, an output shaft outputting changed torque of the engine, a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a third planetary gear set, a fourth planetary gear set, a first rotation shaft directly connected to the input shaft, a second rotation shaft selectively connected to a transmission housing, a third rotation shaft, a fourth rotation shaft, a fifth rotation shaft directly connected to the transmission housing, a sixth rotation shaft, a seventh rotation shaft selectively connected to the fourth rotation shaft, and selectively connected to the transmission housing, an eighth rotation shaft selectively connected to the third rotation shaft, and directly connected to the output shaft, and a ninth rotation shaft selectively connected to the second rotation shaft. |
| US09644708B2 |
10-stage dual clutch transmission for vehicle
A 10-stage dual clutch transmission (DCT) for a vehicle includes: a first input shaft receiving power through a first clutch; a second input shaft disposed coaxially with the first input shaft and receiving power through a second clutch; a plurality of odd driving gears disposed on the first input shaft; a plurality of even driving gears disposed on the second input shaft; a first output shaft and a second output shaft disposed in parallel with the first input shaft and the second input shaft; a plurality of odd driven gears each disposed on the first output shaft or the second output shaft; a plurality of even driven gears disposed each on the first output shaft or the second output shaft; and a joint synchro disposed on the first output shaft or the second output shaft. |
| US09644707B2 |
Universal gear assembly for automatic pool covers
A double dog gear assembly having a hollow cylindrical body member extending along a longitudinal axis between a first gear face and a second gear face. A first set of elongated pin slots are formed in the hollow cylindrical body member and spiral in a first direction. A second set of elongated pin slots formed are also formed in the hollow cylindrical body member and spiral in a second direction, which is different than the first direction. A locking pin selectively engages one of the first and second set of elongated pin slots such that the gear assembly can be used in either a left or right installation. |
| US09644699B2 |
Energy absorber with anti-BSR accessory
An energy absorber includes a base sheet and a plurality of energy absorbing units with end walls and associated leaf spring or helicoid accessories extending from the base sheet. The accessories reduce buzzes, squeaks and rattles associated with an environment of use. In one embodiment, the leaf springs are defined by slits in a domed portion of the end walls. In another embodiment, the helicoid is formed by for example a milling step performed on an end wall. The side walls buckle or bend after absorbing energy. Methods related to the above are also described. |
| US09644696B2 |
Systems and methods for detecting wear of brake pads
A system can be used to indicate wear of a brake pad. The system can include a brake housing, a brake pad mechanically coupled to the brake housing, and a sensor mechanically coupled to the brake pad. The sensor can determine when the brake pad has been worn to a predetermined location by a rotating portion of a wheel. The system can also include an electronic module electrically coupled to the sensor and mechanically coupled to the brake housing. The electronic module can include a radio frequency antenna configured to wirelessly receive radio frequency energy from an external radio frequency transmitter, and an energy converter electrically coupled to the radio frequency antenna. The electronic module can include an internal transmitter electrically coupled to the energy converter and the radio frequency antenna. |
| US09644693B2 |
Sequential parking brake assembly
An assembly includes a brake system comprising a parking brake assembly including a first drive shaft and a second drive shaft. The assembly also includes two or more opposing brake pads, and a rotor extending between the two or more opposing brake pads. During use, the first drive shaft is moved so that a first portion of the brake pad is moved relative to the rotor, The second this shaft is moved so that a second portion of the brake pad is moved relative to the rotor. One of the first portion of the brake pad or the second portion of the brake pad is moved relative to the rotor before the other of the first portion of the brake pad or the second portion of the brake pad is moved relative to the rotor. |
| US09644690B2 |
Electromagnetic wedge disconnect clutch
A wedge clutch, including: an inner race having a radially outermost surface sloping radially outward from a first axial side to a second side; an outer race located radially outward of the inner race; a wedge plate radially disposed between the inner and outer races, the wedge plate including a radially innermost surface sloping radially outward complementary with the radially outermost surface of the inner race; and an actuation assembly arranged to displace the inner race in the first axial direction to place the wedge clutch in a locked mode in which the inner race, the wedge plate and the outer race are non-rotatably connected and in the second axial direction to place the wedge clutch in a free-wheel mode in which the inner and outer races are rotatable with respect to each other. |
| US09644687B2 |
Centering mechanism arrangement for double cardan joints
A joint assembly is provided. The joint assembly includes a first yoke having a base portion and an end, a second yoke having a base portion and an end, a sleeve coupled to the first and second yokes, and a centering device engaging the ends of the first and second yokes. The centering device is configured to maintain the angular positions of the first and second yokes relative to one another and is substantially fixed from rotation during rotation of the first and second yokes. A portion of the centering device extends into and supported by the second yoke base portion. |
| US09644686B2 |
Modular interface arrangement for tools
In an interface arrangement between a first component group supporting a tool holder and a second component group supporting a machining element in a central opening for releasably accommodating the first component group, a shift lever element provided with engagement members is disposed rotatably on the second component group and provided with engagement and release elements for releasably retaining the first component group in the central opening of the second component group so as to permit a rapid exchange of the first component group by another group with a new tool. |
| US09644684B2 |
Capacitance measurement in a bearing housing
A bearing arrangement having a bearing mounted in a housing, wherein a grease lubricant is present within the housing for lubricating the bearing, a support frame at least partly made of an electrically insulating material, arranged in a space within the housing that lies axially between the bearing and a housing seal. The support frame includes at least one electrode pair having first and second electrodes arranged to enable grease lubricant to contact therewith. A capacitance meter provided for measuring a capacitance between the first and second electrodes. The support frame provides a radially oriented surface and a plurality of ribs that extend in a radially inward direction, the ribs having sufficient circumferential spacing to enable grease to flow between adjacent ribs. One of the first and second electrodes is provided on the radially oriented surface of the support frame or on a rib surface that faces an adjacent rib. |
| US09644679B2 |
Slewing bearing, in particular for a vehicle
A slewing bearing, in particular for a vehicle, comprises an inner ring, an outer ring, at least one row of rolling elements disposed between the inner and outer rings, and a sealing feature that define between the rings a closed annular space within which the rolling elements are disposed. The bearing also comprises at least one seal that is fixed to the outer ring and comprises at least one sealing lip that is oriented towards the outside of the bearing, and at least one deflector that is fixed to the outer ring and comprises a deflecting part that is at least partially offset axially towards the outside with respect to the sealing lip of the seal. |
| US09644678B2 |
Low-friction seal
An elastomeric seal, the seal (10) having an elastomeric part (15) with a contact surface (17) for contacting, in use, a movable surface (30), the contact surface having a distribution of dimples thereon, the dimples having a depth of at least 9 μm, an aspect ratio of at least 0.2 and an area density of from 0.05 to 0.5. |
| US09644676B1 |
Bearing assemblies including integrated lubrication, bearing apparatuses, and methods of use
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to bearing assemblies that include integrated lubrication, bearing apparatuses including such bearing assemblies, and related methods. For example, a lubricated bearing assembly may include a lubricant that may lubricate the bearing surface thereof during operation of the lubricated bearing assembly and/or bearing apparatus including the lubricated bearing assembly. |
| US09644675B2 |
Folded fluid channel for a fluid dynamic bearing
A system and method are provided for sealing a fluid dynamic bearing motor. A first and a second folded fluid channel are shaped for maximizing bearing axial span and establishing angular stiffness, to resist gyroscopic rocking of the facing bearing surfaces. The first folded fluid channel is limited to occupying at least a portion of the same axial space as the bearing. A first and a second fluid sealing system are connected to opposite axial ends of the bearing. The first fluid sealing system forms an active pumping seal to pump fluid during motor rotation. In an aspect, a top cover attached shaft, and a single thrust surface are employed, allowing for a rigid motor structure and power reduction in applications including high rotational speed disc drives. Also, by employing a rigid shaft design, significantly lower amplitude radial vibration responses are exhibited at higher frequencies than prior art motor designs. |
| US09644674B2 |
Bearing variable preload system utilizing gap between strokes for preload adjustment and elastic deformation of sealing member
A bearing variable preload system utilizing gaps between strokes for preload adjustment and elastic deformation of a sealing member, according to the present invention, comprises: a housing; bearings provided to the housing; a spindle coupled to the inner wheels of the bearings so as to rotate; and a variable preload unit provided to the housing, applying variable preload to the outer wheels of the bearings; a chamber comprised inside a variable preload unit in which the airtightness is maintained by a sealing member located between the housing member and pressing member touched with the outer wheels of the bearing; a pressure supply unit supplying air or oil pressure to a chamber through a supply pipe provided to the housing so as to vary a preload applied to the outer wheel of the bearing. |
| US09644673B2 |
Bearing
A bearing assembly comprising: (a) an inner journal for supporting a shaft and having a frusto-conical contact surface facing radially outwardly; (b) an outer journal surrounding at least part of the inner journal and having a frusto-conical contact surface which faces radially inwardly; and (c) an adjustment feature for adjusting the axial location of the inner journal relative to the outer journal. |
| US09644672B2 |
Tapered roller bearing
A tapered roller bearing includes an outer ring having an outer-ring raceway surface that increases in diameter from a first side toward a second side in an axial direction, an inner ring having an inner-ring raceway surface and also having a cone back face rib that is located on the second side of the inner ring in the axial direction and that protrudes outward in a radial direction, a plurality of tapered rollers, an annular cage, and a reservoir portion provided on the second side of the outer ring in the axial direction and having a recessed groove that is formed on an inner periphery of the reservoir portion and in which lubricant is stored. The recessed groove has a recess and protrusion at its bottom. |
| US09644671B2 |
Bearing assemblies including a thermally conductive structure, bearing apparatuses, and methods of use
Embodiments of the invention are directed to bearing assemblies configured to effectively provide heat distribution from and/or heat dissipation for bearing element, bearing apparatuses including such bearing assemblies, and methods of operating such bearing assemblies and apparatuses. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly includes a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed about an axis. Each superhard bearing element of the plurality of superhard bearing elements has a superhard material including a superhard surface. Additionally, a support ring structure that includes a support ring that supports the plurality of superhard bearing elements and a thermally-conductive structure in thermal communication with the superhard table of each of the plurality of superhard bearing elements. The thermally-conductive structure has a higher thermal conductivity than the support ring of the support ring structure. |
| US09644670B2 |
Foil bearing with trailing edge key
A gas bearing within a cylinder is provided. The gas bearing comprises an anti-rotation tab sitting within a key way of the cylinder. Further, the gas bearing comprises a first foil forming an inner loop and an intermediary loop. The inner loop extends in a first direction from a first end to an intermediary portion. The intermediary loop extends from the intermediary to the anti-rotation tab. |
| US09644658B2 |
Extensible fixing device
The present invention relates to a fixing device and finds particular, although not exclusive, utility in providing an anchoring point in plasterboard cavity walls or ceilings for the purpose of affixing other items thereto, in which the fixing device may be used in plasterboard walls of varying thickness without risk of over-insertion and loss of the fixing device in the cavity behind the plasterboard. |
| US09644650B2 |
Driver self-tuning method using electro-hydraulic actuator system
The present invention relates to a driver self-tuning method using an electro-hydraulic actuator system, the method comprising: a step in which a specific EHA system is selected by a HMI; a step of displaying a graph defining the mapping relationship of an actuator speed command with respect to a joystick command of the selected EHA system; a step in which, when a predetermined button is pressed by a user, the actuator maximum speed is tuned by multiplying the maximum speed value of the actuator of the selected EHA system, which has been pre-stored, by gain that increases or decreases in proportion to the number of times the button was pressed; and a step of storing the tuned actuator maximum speed in the upper controller of the EHA system. Equipment using the electro-hydraulic actuator system makes it possible to directly tune actuator speed characteristics that cannot be achieved with existing equipment using, by way of example, HMI display equipment and operating buttons. |
| US09644649B2 |
Void protection system
A void protection system includes a valve assembly, a second fluid source configured to provide hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder, an auxiliary valve configured to fluidly connect the hydraulic cylinder to the second fluid source, a sensor assembly, and a controller. The controller is configured to monitor fluid pressure within the hydraulic cylinder based on signals from the sensor assembly, based on a determination that pressure in a rod end or a head end of the hydraulic cylinder is below a first fluid pressure threshold, configure the valve assembly to fluidly connect the corresponding end to the first fluid source, and if the first fluid source is not operational, increase an opening of the auxiliary valve to fluidly connect the corresponding end to the second fluid source and cause the second fluid source to provide fluid until pressure in the corresponding end is above a second fluid pressure threshold. |
| US09644648B2 |
Systems and methods for heat balance and transport for aircraft hydraulic systems
A thermal management system is provided. The thermal management system includes a first hydraulic system for circulating a first hydraulic fluid at a first temperature, a second hydraulic system for circulating a second hydraulic fluid at a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature, and a heat exchanger coupling the first hydraulic system to the second hydraulic system, wherein the heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat between the first hydraulic fluid and the second hydraulic fluid. |
| US09644647B2 |
High pressure hydraulic contamination injection and control system
An automated particulate contaminant injection and control module that controls the level of contamination in the hydraulic fluid passing to a component, system or sub-system under test and removes the injected particulates upon return to the parent test stand. Using the pressure and flow of clean hydraulic fluid from the parent test stand, the contamination module prepares a concentrated contaminant slurry and injects it at a rate determined by a feedback signal from an in-line contamination sensor and an internal control algorithm. |
| US09644642B2 |
Axial compressor and gas turbine having axial compressor
An axial compressor that can remove an attachment within a groove of a casing and recover an effect of suppressing stall on rotor blades, and a gas turbine provided with the axial compressor, are provided. The axial compressor includes a compressor body 6 and a sprayer 9 for spraying droplets in suction gas of the compressor body 6 so that the droplets are introduced into the compressor body 6 and evaporate. The compressor body 6 includes a casing 11, a rotor 12, rotor blades 13, and stator vanes 14. A groove 21 is formed in an inner circumferential surface of the casing 11 so as to be positioned around rotor blades 13 arranged on a front stage side. A purge system 23 is provided that supplies high-pressure air to the groove 21 through communication holes 22. |
| US09644639B2 |
Shroud treatment for a centrifugal compressor
The centrifugal compressor described includes an impeller shroud which encloses the impeller and has a curved shroud surface that extends between an inducer portion and an exducer portion. The compressor includes one or more circumferential grooves in the shroud body within the exducer portion. Each groove has opposed wall segments spaced apart therefrom. The wall segments are inclined at a nonzero groove angle relative to a normal of the shroud surface in a direction opposite the fluid flow path along the shroud surface. |
| US09644637B2 |
Axial compressor
An axial compressor includes a plurality of stator vanes attached to an inner surface of a casing defining an annular flow path and a plurality of rotor blades attached to a rotating rotor defining the annular flow path. A flow path is defined between a pressure surface of a stator vane and a suction surface of a stator vane, the vanes being circumferentially adjacent to each other, or between a pressure surface of a rotor blade and a suction surface of a rotor blade, the blades being circumferentially adjacent to each other. The flow path is formed so that a throat portion at which a flow path width is minimized is provided on the upstream side of 50% of an axial chord length. |
| US09644634B2 |
Method and system for synchronously inhibiting subcritical vibrations of magnetic levitation molecular pump rotor
A method for synchronously inhibiting subcritical vibrations of magnetic levitation molecular pump rotor, by use of synchronously sampling signals of subcritical vibrations of the rotor generated after the rotor of the magnetic levitation molecular pump touches down so as to obtain the amplitude and the phase of subcritical vibrations of the rotor, based on which a compensation force is output for inhibiting subcritical vibrations of the rotor. Through using the present method, an accurate synchronous for signals of subcritical vibrations and fast inhibition for subcritical vibrations of the rotor is achieved. |
| US09644627B2 |
Gear pump
A gear pump includes a pair of gears that meshes with each other, two rotational shafts inserted into the respective gears that rotate together with gears, a pair of side plates arranged adjacent to both side surfaces of the gears, each having two through-holes forming bearings of the two shafts, a seal block that abuts against the pair of side plates and covers a part of the pair of gears, a pump assembly having the gears, the two shafts, the pair of side plates, and the seal block, and a case having a recess to accommodate the pump assembly. A line passing through an arc center of a cylindrical surface inscribed in the facing surface of the case, and parallel to the two shafts, forms a rotating axis. When the pump assembly rotates about the rotating axis, one of the of side plates contacts the inner wall of the case. |
| US09644625B2 |
Compressor
A compressor has suction reed valves each of which includes a fixation portion fixed to the valve base plate, a basal portion that extends from the fixation portion and is separable from the plate, and a valve flap extending from the basal portion toward the distal end to selectively open and close the suction port. Each suction port has a shape elongated in the width direction, which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. The width of the basal portion is greater than that of the suction port. Each valve flap includes an opening-closing portion facing the corresponding suction port and stoppers, which project from the ends in the width direction. The side edges in the width direction are continuous from the stoppers to the basal portion to gradually approach the suction port. The cylinder block has pairs of recessed retainers. The stoppers contact the retainers. |
| US09644621B2 |
Bearing arrangement for a reciprocating compressor
The arrangement of the present invention is applied to a compressor which comprises a bearing hub housing a crankshaft and presenting at least a first and a second bearing portion, spaced apart by a circumferential recess. The crankshaft presents at least a first and a second support portion, spaced apart by a circumferential recess, which is offset from the circumferential recess of the bearing hub. At least one of the bearing portions and support portions has an axial extension superior to that required for radially bearing the crankshaft, the first and second bearing portions defining, with the first and second support portions, respectively, a first and a second radial bearing regions having the axial extensions required for a radial bearing for the crankshaft, presenting lower loss by viscous friction. |
| US09644620B2 |
Active pressure intensifier, reverse osmosis system and use thereof
The invention relates to an active pressure intensifier which comprises an axial piston pump having a housing in which a drum which is driven via a drive shaft for rotation and has at least two piston chambers is disposed, the piston chambers respectively having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet and, in the piston chambers respectively, a piston with at least one piston rod being disposed. Likewise, a reverse osmosis plant which has this active pressure intensifier is provided according to the invention. Likewise, a method for changing the concentration of dissolved components in liquid solutions by means of reverse osmosis is provided according to the invention. The subject according to the invention is used in particular in sea- and brackish water desalination, in waste water treatment, in the foodstuff industry, in the chemical industry and in mining. |
| US09644618B2 |
Portable working machine
A working machine has an oil groove communicating a pump chamber with a gear chamber, and a small amount of oil is delivered to the gear chamber when oil is discharged from the pump chamber. Thus, the oil adheres to the outer peripheral surface of a rotating pump shaft and is kept remaining between a pump case and the pump shaft. Therefore, the viscosity is increased and a pressure loss between the pump chamber and the gear chamber is increased. Accordingly, the airtightness can be maintained, and the stable and inexpensive oil pump mechanism requiring less man-hour can be realized without depending on the accuracy of a gap between the pump case and the pump shaft. Since oil is kept remaining on the outer peripheral surface of the pump shaft, it is possible to prevent the pump case from being worn out and to improve the durability of components. |
| US09644615B2 |
Device for converting heat energy into mechanical energy
A converter of kinetic energy from a jet formed by a heat transfer fluid and a gas at high temperature, includes: at least one injector of the jet from at least one source of heat transfer fluid and of high-temperature gas, an impulse wheel mounted rotating secured to a shaft extending along an axis substantially perpendicularly to the injector and including a plurality of asymmetric blades, a tank surrounding said impulse wheel and at least one deflector extending underneath the blades. |
| US09644614B2 |
Lightning protection system for a wind turbine
A lightning protection system for a wind turbine with a tower, a nacelle, a blade hub and a blade attached to the blade hub is provided. The lightning protection system includes an inner conductor inside the blade, an outer conductor arranged outside the blade and in electrical communication with the inner conductor, a collecting conductor arranged at the front end of the nacelle and in electrical communication with the outer conductor and a down-conductor connected to ground and in electrical communication with the collecting conductor. The outer conductor and the collecting conductor have substantially a same distance to the rotational axis. Further, a wind turbine with such a lightning protection system is provided. |
| US09644611B2 |
Vertical axis wind turbines
A device comprising a vertical axis wind turbine comprising an arm, a housing coupled to the arm, a generator housed within the housing, and a blade extending along the housing vertically. |
| US09644610B2 |
Warning a wind turbine generator in a wind park of an extreme wind event
The disclosure is provides for warning a wind turbine generator (WTG) in a wind park of an extreme wind event. According to one embodiment, one or more front line WTGs of the wind park that detect extreme wind events and provide the warning are adaptively selected based on a measured wind direction. Thus, the selection of front line WTGs is adaptive to changing wind conditions. In another embodiment, a wind park includes a group of one or more WTGs of a first type located in an inner region of the wind park and a plurality of WTGs of a second type located in an outer region of the wind park that at least partially surrounds the inner region. The first type of WTG is structurally weaker and/or rated for higher performance than the second type of WTG. |
| US09644607B2 |
Blade pitch angle adjusting apparatus for a wind turbine
A wind turbine blade pitch angle adjusting apparatus for adjusting the pitch angle of a blade of a wind turbine is provided. The apparatus includes an electric pitch motor able to output a maximum motor torque Tm and a pitch brake assembly able to generate a maximum brake assembly torque Tb. The pitch brake assembly includes a plurality of individual pitch brakes each able to generate a maximum individual brake torque Tsb, the maximum brake assembly torque Tb is the sum of all maximum individual brake torques Tsb, and the maximum motor torque Tm is higher than the maximum individual brake torque Tsb of any one of the pitch brakes. |
| US09644602B2 |
Wave power plant
A wave power plant (1), comprising a body (1) and a rotator (3) supported on the body. The body (1) is a rather flat, panel type element, which is moored with respect to the propagation direction of waves in such a way that the dimension of the body (1) in the propagation direction of waves is smaller than the draft of the body (1). The body (1) has its diagonally opposite corners provided with substantially horizontally protruding fins (4, 5), which bring about swaying of the body (1) in lateral direction, i.e. in the plane of the panel type element, in response to the vertical motion of water. |
| US09644600B2 |
Energy generation from buoyancy effect
A power generation apparatus for underwater power generation including at least two balloons completely submerged under a water surface of a water body, wherein a first balloon is filled with a gas and a second balloon is initially empty, a first and a second flexible hose, a plurality of hose reels, a plurality of pulleys, a cord connecting the first balloon and the second balloon, a pump connected to the first flexible hose and the second flexible hose in an airtight manner, a first valve, a second valve, at least two pressure sensors and at least two flow rate sensors, a generator. The apparatus further includes a power controller that reads data from the at least two pressure sensors and the at least two flow rate sensors to control the opening of the first valve, the second valve, and a pumping direction of the pump. |
| US09644598B2 |
Corona ignition device
A corona ignition device for igniting fuel in an internal combustion engine by means of a corona discharge. The device comprises a center electrode, an insulator into which the center electrode is inserted, a coil body onto which a coil that is connected to the center electrode is wound, and a shielding cap which is fitted onto an end section of the coil body. The end section faces the insulator. According to this disclosure, the shielding cap comprises one or a plurality of slots. |
| US09644587B2 |
Fuel injection device
In a fuel injection device having a sensor for detecting a state in the combustion chamber in a free end thereof, the noises that may be generated in the sensor signal transmitting member for transmitting the sensor signal are minimized. The fuel injection device comprises: a valve body (33) having a free end exposed to the combustion chamber (7) defined in the engine main body (3) and a base end located outside of the engine main body; a sensor (38) supported at a free end of the valve body to detect a state of the combustion chamber; an actuator (37) received in the valve body; a sensor signal transmitting member (91, 128) extending from the sensor to the base end of the valve body; a drive signal transmitting member (83, 84) extending from the actuator; and a first shield member (133) interposed between the sensor signal transmitting member and the drive signal transmitting member, the first shield member having an electro-conductive property and being grounded. |
| US09644586B2 |
Solenoid valve and method for producing solenoid valves
A solenoid valve for metering a fluid into an intake tract (1) of an engine, said solenoid valve comprising a solenoid assembly (2), an armature (3) interacting with the solenoid assembly (2) and a stroke-movable valve disc (4) connected to the armature (3) for opening and closing at least one through-flow aperture (6) formed in a valve plate (5). |
| US09644583B2 |
Fuel pipe protective structure
A fuel pipe protective structure includes a fuel pipe, a connecting member, and a protective member. The protective member is to protect a connection between the fuel pipe and the connecting member. The protective member includes a base and a cover. The base is to be connected to a vehicle body wall that defines an engine compartment. The cover is to be interposed between the connection and an internal combustion engine so as to cover the connection. The cover includes a guide. The guide is configured to cause the protective member to be plastically deformed in order to displace the connection in a receding direction in which the connection moves to avoid being caught by the internal combustion engine in a case where the internal combustion engine moves toward a vehicle interior upon collision of the vehicle. |
| US09644581B2 |
Variable intake system with variable valve
A variable intake system may include an air duct that guides intake air into an engine and a variable valve having a variable opening degree, to adjust an amount of the intake air, wherein the air duct includes a first inlet and a second inlet that may be opened to an outside, wherein the air duct has a first flow path having one end connected with the first inlet and a second flow path having one end connected with the second inlet, wherein the second flow path shares a part of the first flow path, wherein another end of the first flow path and another end of the second flow path share a same outlet, and wherein a length of the second flow path may be longer than a length of the first flow path. |
| US09644579B2 |
Fuel supply system
A fuel supply system has a pressure chamber which communicates with a fuel gallery. The pressure chamber receives the fuel from the feed pump or the returned fuel from the fuel gallery. The fuel in the pressure chamber receives heat energy from the engine E so that the fuel is brought into gas-liquid phase. A volume change of the fuel in liquid phase in the fuel gallery can be compensated by a volume change of the fuel in gas phase or gas-liquid phase in the pressure chamber. Thus, the pressure pulsation in the fuel gallery is absorbed in the pressure chamber. |
| US09644578B2 |
Propulsion device and method for operating same using a partially oxidized diesel fuel
A propulsion device for vehicles includes a device for the partial oxidation of fuel, a fuel tank and a diesel internal combustion engine. The device for the partial oxidation of fuel is in fluid connection with the fuel tank and the diesel internal combustion engine, with the result that at least some of the fuel carried in the vehicle is taken for partial oxidation before combustion in the diesel internal combustion engine. A method for operating such propulsion devices using partially oxidized fuel in the propulsion devices reduces soot emissions. |
| US09644575B2 |
Methods for NOx reduction using exhaust-gas condensate
The system and methods described allow for reduce emissions by using a recirculation device within an engine that connects an air feed line to an exhaust line while cooling the exhaust-gas to form a condensate for further cooling the engine system. In one particular example, a cooling unit is described that cools the exhaust-gas stream flowing there through and collects a condensate out of the exhaust-gas stream for injection back into the air feed line via an injecting device. In this way, an injection of water may be made to reduce NOx emissions during vehicle operations, and the outlay for storage of water on board the vehicle may be eliminated. |
| US09644574B2 |
EGR device having baffle and EGR mixer for EGR device
An EGR device includes a housing and a baffle. The housing has an outer pipe and a wall. The wall extends radially inward from an end of the outer pipe. The outer pipe defines an EGR inlet. The baffle is accommodated in the outer pipe. The baffle includes an inner pipe defining an inner passage internally and defining an annular passage externally with the outer pipe. The annular passage is configured to communicate with the EGR inlet. The housing has at least one diffuser extending from the wall. The at least one diffuser is located in the annular passage. |
| US09644571B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine includes one main combustion chamber for the combustion of a first combustion mixture, one pre-combustion chamber for each respective main combustion chamber for the combustion of a second combustion mixture, a first fuel gas mixer for providing the first combustion mixture, a second fuel gas mixer for providing the second combustion mixture, an air feed line and a synthesis gas feed line, a first mixture line connected to the first fuel gas mixer and the main combustion chamber, and a second mixture line connected to the second fuel gas mixer and the pre-combustion chamber. The first fuel gas mixer is connected to the synthesis gas feed line for the admixing of synthesis gas, and an open or closed loop control device is provided for open or closed loop controlling mixing ratios of fuel, air and synthesis gas in the first combustion mixture and/or second combustion mixture. |
| US09644570B2 |
Hybrid cycle rotary engine
An internal combustion engine includes in one aspect a source of a pressurized working medium and an expander. The expander has a housing and a piston, movably mounted within and with respect to the housing, to perform one of rotation and reciprocation, each complete rotation or reciprocation defining at least a part of a cycle of the engine. The expander also includes a septum, mounted within the housing and movable with respect to the housing and the piston so as to define in conjunction therewith, over first and second angular ranges of the cycle, a working chamber that is isolated from an intake port and an exhaust port. Combustion occurs at least over the first angular range of the cycle to provide heat to the working medium and so as to increase its pressure. The working chamber over a second angular range of the cycle expands in volume while the piston receives, from the working medium as a result of its increased pressure, a force relative to the housing that causes motion of the piston relative to the housing. |
| US09644568B2 |
Reinforced composite cylinder block
Systems and methods are provided for forming an engine comprising a thermoset composite engine block. One example method includes reinforcing the engine block with a plurality of metal strips, wherein a first portion of the plurality of metal strips are positioned in a substantially transverse direction of the engine block and a second portion of the plurality of metal strips are positioned in a substantially longitudinal direction of the engine block. The plurality of metal reinforcing strips may provide additional reinforcement to the engine block. |
| US09644566B2 |
Control apparatus for operating a fuel injector
A control apparatus for operating a fuel injector is provided. The control apparatus includes an electronic control unit configured to: identify when the engine is running under a fuel cut-off condition, and then perform a learning procedure to determine an actual value of energizing time that causes the fuel injector to inject a target fuel quantity. The learning procedure provides for the electronic control unit to perform several test injections with different energizing time values and measure an engine torque value caused by the test injection. The measured engine torque values and their correspondent energizing time values are used to extrapolate the actual value of the energizing time as the value that corresponds to a reference value of engine torque that is consistent with the target fuel quantity. |
| US09644565B2 |
Method of controlling a fuel injection
A method of controlling an amount of fuel to be injected by a fuel injector into a cylinder of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. A map stores values of a fuel injection quantity drift of said injector. A fuel injection quantity drift is estimated and stored in a corresponding map point to a current engine operating point. A set of map points whose distance from said corresponding map point is smaller than a given distance are selected. All map points of the set of map points are modified by multiplying their entries by a radial weighing factor. The amount of fuel to be injected by the fuel injector to be the requested amount of fuel is corrected by means of the corresponding entry of the map. |
| US09644562B2 |
Injector driving apparatus
In an injector driving apparatus, a driving circuit supplies a current individually to each coil of multiple injectors, a current detection element detects the current flowing in a common current flow path, which is common to the coils, a current supply period guard part forcibly stops the current supplied from the driving circuit to the coil upon determination that a measured period reached a predetermined set period based on a detection result of the current detection element, and a diagnosis part operates in a period of no fuel injection to check whether the current supply period guard part normally stops the current supplied to the coil, by continuously supplying the current to the coil for only a short period, which disables the injector to open a valve, and sequentially switches over the coils. |
| US09644557B2 |
Hybrid vehicle and method of controlling hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle includes: an engine, a motor configured to drive the vehicle, an air-fuel ratio sensor, and a control unit configured to stop and start the engine according to vehicle required power. The control unit is configured to change a threshold value of the vehicle required power at which the engine is started such that a difference between an air-fuel ratio detected by the air-fuel ratio sensor and a stoichiometric air-fuel ratio decreases in a case where the difference exceeds a predetermined value when the engine is stopped. |
| US09644553B2 |
Control device for internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine of the present invention is an internal combustion engine including a supercharger and an EGR device. Further, the internal combustion engine has an ISC passage that connects an upstream side and a downstream side of a throttle valve in an intake passage, and an ISC valve that regulates an amount of air that flows in the ISC passage. A control device of the present invention performs valve opening control that makes an opening degree of the ISC valve an opening degree larger than a reference opening degree when request torque required by the internal combustion engine is smaller than estimated torque that can be generated in the internal combustion engine, and prohibits opening of an EGR valve of the EGR device during execution of the valve opening control. |
| US09644551B2 |
Method of supplying fuel to engine
A method for supplying fuel to an engine is disclosed. The method may include regulating a gas admission valve disposed between a gaseous fuel line and a cylinder intake port to reduce flow of gaseous fuel to the cylinder. The method may also include closing a shut-off valve disposed between a gaseous fuel reservoir and the gaseous fuel line to restrict flow of gaseous fuel from the gaseous fuel reservoir to the gaseous fuel line. Further, the method may include actuating an inert gas inlet valve disposed between an inert gas reservoir and the gaseous fuel line to supply inert gas to the gaseous fuel line and flush the gaseous fuel in the gaseous fuel line into the cylinder via the gas admission valve. Additionally, the method may include closing the inert gas inlet valve to restrict supply of inert gas to the gaseous fuel line. |
| US09644550B2 |
Control apparatus for vehicle
A control apparatus for a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes an engine having a turbocharger and an automatic transmission. The control apparatus includes at least one electronic control unit configured to: control an air-fuel ratio of the engine and an operating state of the turbocharger based on a parameter indicating a load of the engine; control the turbocharger to execute turbocharging and operate the engine in a turbocharging lean combustion mode when the parameter is within a predetermined range, an air-fuel ratio set in the turbocharging lean combustion mode being a predetermined lean air-fuel ratio; and operate the engine in a predetermined operation mode instead of the turbocharging lean combustion mode in at least a part of the predetermined range when a downshift is performed in the automatic transmission, an air-fuel ratio set in the predetermined operation mode being a richer air-fuel ratio than the predetermined lean air-fuel ratio. |
| US09644547B2 |
Engine control device for work vehicle
An engine control device for a work vehicle decides that an idling stop condition is established when the front device is in the unengaged state, the steering device is in the unengaged state, the accelerator pedal is in the non-operation state, either the transmission is in the neutral state or the parking brake device is in the engaged state or the transmission is in the neutral state and also the parking brake device is in the engaged state, and the service brake device is in the unengaged state, and stops an engine when it is decided that it passes the predetermined length of time since it was decided that the idling stop condition was established. |
| US09644545B2 |
Control of engine exhaust braking
A method of controlling exhaust braking in an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The engine includes an exhaust system, an exhaust pressure modulation valve, and a variable geometry turbocharger having adjustable vanes. The method includes restricting a flow of the exhaust gas through the exhaust system via a first partially-closed position of the valve. The valve's first partially-closed position increases the exhaust backpressure in the engine up to a first pressure value and generates a first stage of exhaust braking by the engine. The method also includes, following the increase of exhaust backpressure in the engine up to the first pressure value, restricting a flow of the exhaust gas through the turbocharger via closing the turbocharger's adjustable vanes. The closing of the turbocharger's adjustable vanes increases the exhaust backpressure up to a second pressure value in the exhaust system and generates a second stage of exhaust braking by the engine. |
| US09644542B2 |
Turbine cooling system using an enhanced compressor air flow
The present application provides a gas turbine engine for low turndown operations. The gas turbine engine may include a compressor with a compressor bleed air flow, a turbine, and a compressor bleed air flow manifold. The compressor bleed air manifold directs a variable portion of the compressor bleed air flow to the turbine. |
| US09644541B2 |
Turbine engine comprising a floating bearing for guiding a shaft of the turbine engine
A turbine engine including at least one shaft and at least one bearing for rotatably guiding the shaft about an axis of the turbine engine, the bearing including a first radially inner ring and a second radially outer ring enclosing rolling members, wherein the first ring is floatingly mounted on the shaft via a fluid damping film. |
| US09644539B2 |
Cooling air temperature reduction using nozzles
A converging-diverging nozzle that has particular application for providing a cooling air flow to ring segments in a gas turbine engine. The engine includes a turbine section that receives a hot working gas. The turbine section includes at least one row of vanes, at least one row of blades and a plurality of ring segments forming at least one ring. The ring segments and the vanes are mounted to a vane carrier, where the vane carrier includes a cooling flow channel for each of the ring segments that receives an air flow to cool the ring segments. A plug is provided in each channel and has an internal bore shaped to define the converging-diverging nozzle through which the air flows so as to create a supersonic flow that reduces the temperature of the air and thus provides more cooling for the same amount of air flow. |
| US09644536B2 |
Inlet air filter arrangement, inlet air filter cartridge, and equipment for supporting inlet air filter cartridges for a gas turbine or a combustion turbine
An inlet air filter arrangement for a gas turbine or a combustion turbine includes a housing with an inlet side and an outlet side separated by a planar tubesheet including multiple tubesheet openings. Each multiple cylindrical filter cartridge includes a symmetry axis, an open end, and a closed end. A connection assembly for each of the multiple cylindrical filter cartridges seals the open end of the cylindrical filter cartridge to the tubesheet around one of the tubesheet openings. The connection assembly includes a mainly cylindrical guide sleeve including a symmetry axis, a shell with a cylindrical external surface, an inner end attached around the tubesheet opening and an outer end at the inlet side of the housing. The shell is provided with at least two slots extending mainly helically from the outer end towards the inner end. A collar attaches to the open end of the cylindrical filter cartridge. |
| US09644535B2 |
Passive boundary layer bleed system for nacelle inlet airflow control
A nacelle for a gas turbine engine system includes a housing that has a pressure side and a suction side. A passage extends between the pressure side and the suction side for permitting airflow from the pressure side to the suction side. The passage includes a first curved section that has an inlet at the pressure side. A linear section is connected with the first curved section. A second curved section is connected with the linear section and has an outlet at the suction side. The outlet has a cross sectional area smaller than a cross sectional area of the linear section. |
| US09644533B2 |
Method and apparatus for supplying a combustion chamber with nitrogen
In a method for supplying nitrogen to a combustion chamber, gaseous nitrogen (9) is drawn off from an air separation unit (7) at a first pressure, the nitrogen is compressed in at least two stages (C1, C2) of a nitrogen compressor and sent to a combustion chamber (25) at a second pressure, which is the output pressure of the last stage (C3) of the nitrogen compressor, between two stages of the nitrogen compressor the nitrogen is humidified by direct contact in passing through a contactor (17) supplied at its top with water, and the humidified nitrogen is compressed in at least one stage of the nitrogen compressor and sent to the combustion chamber. |
| US09644532B2 |
Autonomous glow driver for radio controlled engines
An autonomous glow driver system for radio controlled (RC) engines. Aspects of the system include a connector that securely attaches to the glow plug to maintain good electrical contact with the glow plug and reduce signal noise and using a current and differential amplifiers to determine the temperature of the glow element and the RPMs of the glow engine from a voltage signal (obtained via the connector) that varies with the temperature as induced changes in the resistance of the glow element occur. Using the data of temperature, non-running RPM, and running RPM to control operation of the glow driver leads to a very reliable approach to automatically activating the glow driver to maintain the combustion chamber temperature of the glow engine at a selected level because RPM is indicative of a rotating engine whereas temperature is not. |
| US09644529B2 |
Supercharged internal combustion engine with twin-flow turbine and method for operating an internal combustion engine of said type
A supercharged internal combustion engine may include a twin-flow turbine with variable vane geometry. One example method to operate the device permits optimized operation of the internal combustion engine at low exhaust gas flow rates. |
| US09644522B2 |
Cast end cap mounting module
An end cap mounting module comprises an end cap body that is cast as a single-piece component that has a first mount interface for connection to a catalytic converter and a second mount interface for connection to an exhaust pipe. The single-piece end cap body can include at least one integrally formed sensor boss and/or fastener boss. |
| US09644520B2 |
Control system for determining biofuel content
A system includes an internal combustion engine having an air intake, a fuel inlet, and exhaust outlet. The system further includes a NOx sensor operably coupled to the exhaust outlet and structured to provide an exhaust O2 value, and a controller structured to functionally execute operations for determining a tank biofuel value. The controller includes an operation conditions module that interprets an intake O2 value, the exhaust O2 value, and a biofuel O2 correlation, an O2 fuel determination module that determines an O2 biofuel value in response to the intake O2 value, the exhaust O2 value, and the biofuel O2 correlation, and a fuel composition module that determines a tank biofuel value in response to the O2 biofuel value. The controller further includes a biofuel reporting module that provides the tank biofuel value. |
| US09644519B2 |
Device and method to use the same to purify pollutant gases
The present invention relates to a device and a method of using the same for purification and recycling of pollutant gases. The device is a tool to minimize and limit the impact of toxic gases emitted by cars' exhaust systems. The way this device works, makes it possible for the emitted gases, after the fuel combustion, through the exhaust system, to react with a strong alkaline fluid (calcium hydroxide). The result of this reaction is gases friendly to the environment, and natural precipitated components that can be very useful byproducts. |
| US09644518B2 |
Urea filler neck and urea tank for prevention of urea overflow and urea after-treatment system with outside filler neck
A urea filler neck for preventing a urea overflow includes a filler housing forming a urea path in which urea flows to a urea tank. An injection gun guide is provided in the filler housing. An end of an injection gun is fixed by the injection gun guide to limit an insertion position of the injection gun inserted into an inlet of the filler housing. An injection gun guide flooding phenomenon is generated, in which urea flowing backward from the urea tank rises to block an air flow in the filler housing being generated in the injection gun guide. A filler housing pressure increasing phenomenon is generated, in which a pressure in the filler housing is increased due to blocking of the air flow by the injection gun guide flooding phenomenon being generated in the injection gun guide. |
| US09644513B2 |
Method of regenerating lean NOx trap of exhaust purification system provided with lean NOx trap and selective catalytic reduction catalyst and exhaust purification system
A method of regenerating a lean NOx trap (LNT) of an exhaust purification system provided with the LNT and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst may include: determining whether a regeneration release condition of the LNT is satisfied; determining whether a regeneration demand condition of the LNT is satisfied; and performing regeneration of the LNT if the regeneration release condition of the LNT and the regeneration demand condition of the LNT are satisfied. In particular, the regeneration demand condition of the LNT is satisfied if a NOx adsorption in the LNT is larger than or equal to a threshold NOx adsorption, and the threshold NOx adsorption is set to a minimum value of a target NOx adsorption in the LNT which changes according to a maximum NOx adsorption in the LNT in cold starting and a NOx purification efficiency of the SCR catalyst. |
| US09644511B2 |
Combustion gas cooling apparatus, denitration apparatus including the combustion gas cooling apparatus, and combustion gas cooling method
A fuel gas cooling apparatus includes a cooling duct which causes a cooling gas to flow out into a mixing duct, and a difference of maximum dimensions in a height direction of a flow inlet and a flow outlet with respect to a passage length of the mixing duct is smaller than a difference of maximum dimensions in the height direction of a flow inlet and a flow outlet with respect to a passage length of an expanded duct, or a difference of maximum dimensions in a width direction of the flow inlet and the flow outlet with respect to the passage length of the mixing duct is smaller than a difference of maximum dimensions in the width direction of the flow inlet and the flow outlet with respect to the passage length of the expanded duct. |
| US09644509B2 |
Muffler
The present invention in one or more embodiments provides a muffler, where the muffler includes a housing extending along a longitudinal direction, and a resonator device supported on the housing and including a body, the body including a first portion and a second portion spaced apart from and to be in fluid communication with the first portion, the fluid communication being positioned in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, at least one of the first portion and second portion being of a closed-loop in cross-section. The muffler of the present invention may effectively enhance reduction of low frequency noise without having to necessarily increase package volume. |
| US09644508B2 |
Liquid filter with a filter bypass valve and with a central discharge duct, and filter insert for a liquid filter
A liquid filter having a housing with a removable cover and an exchangeable cylindrical insert enclosed by two end disks. The filter has a bypass valve and the upper end disk has a central valve seat interacting with a valve body. The housing has a central discharge duct, with a closure pin fixed in the duct which is axially adjustable between closed and open positions. The filter has a valve body carrier connected, with limited axial displaceability, to the pin. The carrier, on its free end, has the bypass valve body, and onto which the insert end disk is mountable. The carrier is preloaded with a force, acting in the closing direction of the valve via a housing spring. During mounting of the insert onto the carrier, a force acting in the closing direction of the closure pin can be exerted directly on the pin by the insert. |
| US09644507B2 |
Oil pan structure
An oil pan structure (1) includes a lower structure (2) fixed to a lower portion of an engine block, a main oil pan (3) provided under an engine block with the lower structure being between the main oil pan and the engine block, a sub oil pan (5) that is provided in the main oil pan (3) and forms a first chamber (6) and a second chamber (7) inside the main oil pan (3). The sub oil pan (5) is separated into an upper body (5a) and a lower body (5b). The upper body (5a) is formed together with the lower structure (2) by injection molding. |
| US09644501B2 |
Heat capturing module and power generating system incorporating the module
A heat capturing module for obtaining useful energy from waste heat includes an extendable hood directing hot gas through a heat exchange assembly having a plurality of heat pipes. A closed flow loop directs a heat transfer medium through the heat exchange assembly to heat the heat transfer medium, and directs the heated medium for use by an application. In one embodiment, the closed flow loop directs the heat transfer medium through an organic Rankine cycle unit where heat is converted to electrical power. An exhaust system having a variable-speed induction fan induces flow of the hot gas through the heat exchange assembly. The speed of the induction fan may be controlled to maintain a setpoint temperature of the heat transfer medium. The hood may be extended and retracted based on a measured temperature of gas at an intake region of the hood. The module is transportable by truck trailer. |
| US09644499B2 |
Instantly renewed energy system
The present application includes a condensing steam turbine used to produce power without the need to consume fossil fuels. The steam turbine includes a plurality of stage wheels, heating coils, and closed circular loops. Energy is provided to the heating coils and the closed circular loops to generate heat. The heat is cycled to produce power. The heating coils and the loops are located in a housing in an overlapping and alternating configuration. The loops are made of two or more magnets joined at opposing poles. |
| US09644498B2 |
System and method for reducing back pressure in a gas turbine system
In a first embodiment, a system, including an exhaust duct configured to flow an exhaust gas, and an air injection system coupled to the exhaust duct, wherein the air injection system comprises a first air injector configured to inject air into the exhaust duct to assist flow of the exhaust gas through the exhaust duct. |
| US09644497B2 |
Industrial gas turbine exhaust system with splined profile tail cone
An integrated single-piece exhaust system (SPEX) with modular construction that facilitates design changes for enhanced aerodynamics, structural integrity or serviceability. The SPEX defines splined or curved exhaust path surfaces, such as a series of cylindrical and frusto-conical sections that mimic curves. The constructed sections may include: (i) a tail cone assembly fabricated from conical sections that taper downstream to a reduced diameter; or (ii) an area-ruled cross section axially aligned with one or more rows of turbine struts; or both features. Modular inner and outer diameter inlet lips enhance transitional flow between the last row blades and the SPEX, as well as enhance structural integrity. Modular strut collars have large radius profiles between the SPEX annular inner diameter and outer diameter flow surfaces, for enhanced airflow and constant thickness walls for uniform heat transfer and thermal expansion. Scalloped mounting flanges enhance structural integrity and longevity. |
| US09644496B2 |
Radial diffuser exhaust system
The present application provides a radial diffuser exhaust system for use with a gas turbine engine. The radial diffuser exhaust system may include a radial diffuser positioned within an asymmetric exhaust collector. The asymmetric exhaust collector may include a closed end chamber and an exhaust end chamber. The closed end chamber may have a first size, the exhaust end chamber may have a second size, and the first size may be smaller than the second size. |
| US09644493B2 |
Fan case ballistic liner and method of manufacturing same
A method of manufacturing a fan case with a liner includes the steps of providing a preform having a circular cross-section with a cut and a first diameter, flexing the preform to reduce the first diameter to a second diameter, and adhering the preform to an inner surface of a fan case. A fan case for a gas turbine engine includes a fan case body having an inner surface. A preform is adhered to the inner surface and has a cut providing a gap. |
| US09644490B2 |
Turbine blade tip clearance control
An aircraft engine according to an example of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a high pressure turbine having a blade, an engine casing disposed about the blade, a shield disposed around the casing adjacent to the blade and creating an area between the shield and the casing, and a gate disposed along the shield. The gate is rotatable about the engine casing between an opened position and a closed position for selectively controlling entry of cooling air into the area. A method of cooling an engine is also disclosed. |
| US09644481B2 |
Gerotor hydraulic device with adjustable output
A hydraulic device (1) comprising a housing (2) and a gerotor (3) contained within the housing (2), the gerotor (3) having an inner rotor (4) eccentrically disposed within an outer ring (5), the outer ring having a central axis (19), the outer ring (5) being fixed to the housing, the inner rotor (4) having external lobes (4a) extending radially outwardly engaging the outer ring (5) having internal lobes (5a) extending radially inwardly, the inner rotor (4) being arranged for orbital and rotational movement relative the outer ring (5), wherein the orbital and rotational movement will define a plurality of expanding and contracting volume pressure chambers (7) between the inner rotor (4) and the outer ring (5). The hydraulic device (1) comprises a fluid feeder tube (8) with a central axis (19), the fluid feeder tube (8) is provided with at least one fluid inlet line (8a, 8c) and at least one fluid outlet line (8b, 8d), the inner rotor (4) is adapted to slide against a drive shaft cylinder (10b), the drive shaft cylinder (10b) having a circumference which is eccentrically disposed relative the central axis (19), the inner rotor (4) comprises at least one radial fluid feeder channel (9) disposed radially from the center of and through the inner rotor (4) and out to at least one of the plurality of expanding and contracting volume pressure chambers (7), wherein said fluid inlet line (8a, 8c) and said fluid outlet line (8b, 8d) respectively are radially connectable to said radial fluid feeder channel (9) for fluid communication into and out from said expanding and contracting volume pressure chambers (7). |
| US09644477B2 |
Wireless communications in a drilling operations environment
An embodiment includes an apparatus for wireless communications in a drilling operations environment. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes an instrument hub that is inline with drill pipe of a drill string. The instrument hub includes a sensor to receive downhole communications from downhole. The instrument hub also includes a transmitter to wireless transmit data representative of the downhole communications to a data processor unit. |
| US09644476B2 |
Structures having cavities containing coupler portions
An apparatus includes a first structure having a cavity containing a first coupler portion, and a first cover to sealably cover the cavity. In addition, a second structure for engaging the first inductive structure has a cavity containing a second coupler portion. A second cover is sealably covers the cavity of the second structure. |
| US09644474B2 |
Underground localization method and system therefor
An underground localization method and a system therefor are provided. The underground localization method includes computing location information of a dead reckoning using a gyro sensor and a distance movement sensor of moving equipment, measuring physical information according to the computed location information of the dead reckoning and searching for the physical information which is determined as being matched with the location information of the dead reckoning, and optimizing a location by reflecting location information of the physical information which is determined as being matched with the location information of the dead reckoning. |
| US09644473B2 |
Snorkel tube with debris barrier for electronic gauges placed on sand screens
A sensing system comprises at least one gauge disposed in a wellbore, a sensing link coupled to the at least one gauge, and a debris barrier coupled to the sensing link. The debris barrier comprises a housing coupled to the sensing link, and a barrier element configured to reduce the transport of particulates from the wellbore into the sensing link. |
| US09644472B2 |
Remote pressure readout while deploying and undeploying coiled tubing and other well tools
A well tool has a pressure sensor disposed in an interior space. The pressure sensor has at least one sensing element estimating a pressure parameter of a fluid in the interior space and a transponder configured to transmit radio frequency (RF) signals representative of the estimated pressure parameter. A data retrieval module receives the RF signals transmitted by the transmitter. |
| US09644466B2 |
Method of recovering hydrocarbons within a subsurface formation using electric current
A method of recovering hydrocarbons includes forming a first electrode by creating a first hydraulic fracture within the subsurface formation and pumping a first electrically conductive material into the first hydraulic fracture; forming a second electrode by creating a second hydraulic fracture within the subsurface formation and pumping a second electrically conductive material into the second hydraulic fracture; electrically connecting a first power transmitting mechanism to the first electrode; electrically connecting a second power transmitting mechanism to the second electrode; and heating the subsurface formation between the first electrode and the second electrode by transmitting an electrical current via the first power transmitting mechanism to the first electrode and via the second power transmitting mechanism to the second electrode and by flowing the electrical current from the first electrode to the second electrode. The electrical current substantially includes a frequency between 60 Hertz and 500 Kilohertz. |
| US09644465B2 |
System, method and apparatus for creating an electrical glow discharge
The present invention provides system, method and apparatus for creating an electric glow discharge that includes a first and second electrically conductive screens having substantially equidistant a gap between them, one or more insulators attached to the electrically conductive screens, and a non-conductive granular material disposed within the gap. The electric glow discharge is created whenever: (a) the first electrically conductive screen is connected to an electrical power source such that it is a cathode, the second electrically conductive screen is connected to the electrical power supply such that it is an anode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the gap, or (b) both electrically conductive screens are connected to the electrical power supply such they are the cathode, and the electrically conductive fluid is introduced between both electrically conductive screens and an external anode connected to the electrical power supply. |
| US09644464B2 |
Electromagnetic assisted ceramic materials for heavy oil recovery and in-situ steam generation
A downhole tool, and method of using the downhole tool, for enhancing recovery of heavy oil from a formation. The downhole tool includes an outer core having at least one ceramic portion. At least one electromagnetic antenna is disposed within the outer core. The at least one electromagnetic antenna is operable to emit electromagnetic radiation to heat the at least one ceramic portion. |
| US09644462B2 |
Gas lift assist for fossil fuel wells
When a fossil fuel well is producing fossil fuel, lift gas injected into the well to bring the naturally occurring fluids in the well to the surface along with the fossil fuel and the plunger if the well has a plunger. An instrument is programmed to use the predetermined criteria to dynamically control the rate of injection of the lift gas into the well. |
| US09644457B2 |
Subsea processing of well fluids
A towable unit for subsea processing of well fluids comprises a pipeline bundle extending between, and capable of acting in tension between, a first towhead at an upstream end of the bundle and a second towhead at a downstream end of the bundle. At least one of the towheads has an on-board processing facility for processing the well fluids, which facility effects at least separation of water phases that are present in the well fluids. |
| US09644456B2 |
Underwater oil pipeline heating systems
A system for reducing buildup of solids in pipes used in underwater oil operations is disclosed. The system includes an annular pipe having an inner pipe wall and an outer pipe wall. The inner pipe wall defines an inner pipe configured to transport an oil. The outer pipe wall is displaced from the inner pipe wall. The outer pipe wall defines an outer pipe between the outer pipe wall and the inner pipe wall. The system includes an oxidizer delivery pipe having an oxidizer delivery outlet. The oxidizer delivery pipe is configured to supply an oxidizer to the outer pipe. The system further includes a fuel delivery pipe having a fuel delivery outlet. The fuel delivery pipe is configured to supply a fuel to the outer pipe. The oxidizer and the fuel release thermal energy in an exothermic reaction. |
| US09644454B2 |
System and method for injecting fluid at selected locations along a wellbore
A system and method for selectively actuating sliding sleeves in valve sub-members which are placed downhole in a wellbore, via one or more darts inserted into said wellbore, to thereby open a ports or ports in such sub-members to allow fracking of the wellbore. The dart is preferably coupled, or provided with coupling means to permit coupling, to a retrieval tool, which upon the retrieval tool being so coupled allows a bypass valve to be opened to thereby assist in withdrawing the dart from within the valve sub-members. Upward movement of the retrieval tool allows a wedge-shaped member to disengage the dart member from a corresponding actuated sleeve to allow the dart to be withdrawn from the wellbore. |
| US09644453B2 |
Ball sealer for hydrocarbon resource collection as well as production method therefor and downhole treatment method using same
A ball sealer for hydrocarbon resource recovery, comprising: a generally spherical entire structure including at least two layers of a spherical core and a surface resin layer covering the spherical core, of which at least the surface resin layer comprises a polyglycolic acid resin; and having a diameter of at least about 25 mm (1 inch). The ball sealer is produced through a process comprising the steps of: disposing a spherical core by a support pin at a substantially central position within a mold cavity, injecting a surface resin comprising a polyglycolic acid resin into the cavity surrounding the spherical core, causing the support pin to retreat up to a wall surface of mold cavity in synchronism with a completion of the injection of the surface resin, and then hardening the surface resin. As a result, it is possible to produce a large-diameter ball sealer suitable for use in the hydraulic fracturing process (hydraulic fracturing) widely used for recovery of hydrocarbon resources by using a polyglycolic acid resin which is a biodegradable resin having good mechanical strengths and a good size designability at least as a surface-forming resin, through relatively simple steps and with good dimensional accuracy. |
| US09644451B2 |
Downhole valve for fluid energized packers
A downhole valve for fluid energized packers includes a valve sub and a packer. The valve sub further includes a control tube and a rotatable ball, the control tube having at least one closable aperture fluidly coupled to the packer when open, and the rotatable ball rotatable about an axle having at least one flow path closable by a rotation of the ball. The rotatable ball rotates about an axle coupled to a shift sleeve coupled to the lower end of the control tube. The rotatable ball includes a rotation pin extending from its outer surface and a rotation pin sleeve is adapted to rotate the ball in response to a movement of the ball toward or away from the rotation pin sleeve. |
| US09644448B2 |
Apparatus and method for isolating a section of a pipe riser bore in the course of riser renewal
The isolation tool works at depth in the bore of a pipe whose upper end is to be severed and replaced. The tool isolates the lower pipe bore from the upper bore so that flammable downhole fluid is prevented from reaching a welding site along the pipe wall. The tool incorporates: means for establishing a pair of axially spaced apart annular seals engaging the pipe inner surface; means for venting downhole fluid to ground surface; and means for monitoring for seal leakage. The tool is primarily mechanical in nature. It finds use in connection with off-shore platform riser renewal operations. |
| US09644446B2 |
Ball launcher for a tubing string
A ball launcher has a body and a ball conveyor. The body has a sidewall defining axial bore, an attachment for attaching to a tubing string, and at least one radial port that provides access though the sidewall to the axial bore. The ball conveyor is carried by the body adjacent to an associated radial port. The ball conveyor comprises an inner bore in communication with the associated radial port and extends laterally outward from the body. A shaft extends along the inner bore, the shaft having a helical flight having at least one turn around the shaft, the flight and a bottom portion of the inner bore defining a ball receiving space large enough to receive a ball to be launched. A drive source rotates the shaft in a first direction to cause the flight to advance one or more balls toward the radial port. |
| US09644445B2 |
Tunable floating seal insert
A system including, a mineral extraction component, a conduit fitting coupled to the mineral extraction component, a floating seal insert disposed in the conduit fitting. The floating seal insert includes a feature configured to tune a fluid dynamic characteristic along a liquid flow path through the conduit fitting and the floating seal insert. Furthermore, the fluid dynamic characteristic can be shockwaves, flow rate, turbulence, etc. |
| US09644442B2 |
Multi-pressure flange connection
A multi-pressure flange is disclosed that includes a first set of fasteners comprising four fasteners in a first rectangular pattern for attachment in a first pressure rating and a second set of fasteners comprising four fasteners in a second rectangular pattern in which the first rectangular pattern is perpendicular to the second rectangular pattern. The second set of fasteners is selectively combinable with the first set of fasteners for attachment in a higher second pressure rating. The flange may include a recess to receive sealing component and a receptacle configured to receive a pipe fitting. Systems and methods including the multi-pressure flange are also disclosed. |
| US09644441B2 |
Hydraulic impact apparatus and methods
A hydraulic jar coupled between opposing first and second portions of a downhole tool string. The hydraulic jar includes a housing comprising a shoulder protruding radially inward from an internal surface of the housing, a shaft disposed within the housing, a piston fixedly positioned about the shaft and fluidly sealed against the shoulder, and a pressure relief device. The housing and the shaft move axially relative to each other and the shoulder axially interposes first and second portions of an annulus formed between the shaft and the housing. The pressure relief device controls fluid flow from the first annulus portion to the second annulus portion based on a pressure of the fluid in the first annulus portion relative to a set pressure of the pressure relief device. |
| US09644440B2 |
Systems and methods for producing forced axial vibration of a drillstring
Systems and methods for producing forced axial vibration of a drillstring. Systems include a cam housing positioned above a drill bit in a drillstring, a rotatable cam positioned internal of the cam housing, the rotatable cam having at least one cam surface exhibiting reciprocating axial movement upon rotation of the rotatable cam, and a non-rotatable cam follower positioned internal surface of the cam housing and having at least one cam follower surface engaging the cam surface. The cam follower transfers the reciprocating axial movement to the drill bit. The rotatable cam is rotated by a fluid-powered positive displacement power section positioned above and mechanically attached to the rotatable cam in the drillstring to effect the rotation of the rotatable cam, and thus effect the reciprocating axial movement of the drill bit. |
| US09644436B2 |
Drilling tool storage device and method of changing a drilling tool
A drilling tool changer apparatus for a drilling rig includes a drill tower pivotable between a drilling orientation and a change-out orientation, the drill tower supporting a drill string comprising a drill pipe coupled to a drilling tool. The drilling tool changer apparatus also includes a drilling tool storage device pivotally movable about a hinge axis between a stowed position and a deployed position. The drilling tool storage device includes a drilling tool storage cassette including a replacement drilling tool. The drilling tool storage device and the drill tower are pivotally alignable in a substantially co-planar manner when the drilling tool storage device is in the deployed position and the drill tower is in the change-out orientation. |
| US09644432B2 |
Threaded tubular component and resulting connection
A threaded tubular component configured for drilling or working hydrocarbon wells, the tubular component including, at one of its ends, a threaded zone formed on its external or internal peripheral surface depending on whether the threaded end is male or female in type. The end portion is at least partially coated with a dry film, including a thermoplastic or thermoset matrix including microcapsules filled with compounds in liquid form. |
| US09644429B2 |
Specialized bit for challenging drilling environments
The present disclosure provides a drill bit having cutters of different geometries, such as the combination of round cutters and scribe cutters. The drill bit includes at least one radial location at which both a round cutter and a scribe cutter are disposed. Thus, the drill bit leverages the high cutting efficiency of the scribe cutter as well as the high impact resistance of the round cutter. Additionally, the round cutter and the scribe cutter have the same maximum distance from the drill bit. Thus, the round cutter and the scribe cutter which share the same radial location contact the rock formation at substantially the same time when used in a drilling operation. |
| US09644428B2 |
Drill bit with a hybrid cutter profile
A drill bit and method of making a drill bit. A bit body is provided having a plurality of blade profiles thereon. The blade profile includes a first plurality of cutting elements disposed on each blade such that at least one cutting element on a first section of each blade profile is offset relative to at least one cutting element on a second section of each blade profile. Lateral stability of the drill bit relative to a drill bit without an offset is increased. |
| US09644427B2 |
Device for directional drilling
A drill string section for directional drilling includes an outer casing which encases an adjustment mechanism for adjusting drilling direction and angular deflection during drilling. The adjustment mechanism has an outer shaft that is rotatably arranged relative to the outer casing and is configured with an axial eccentric first bore having a first bore axis that is parallel to the centre axis. The adjustment mechanism further includes an inner shaft that is rotatably arranged in the first bore and is configured with an axial, eccentric second bore for passage of a drive shaft for a drill bit. |
| US09644426B2 |
Nanoparticle kinetic gas hydrate inhibitors
Inhibiting gas hydrate formation while transporting hydrocarbon fluids may include providing a kinetic gas hydrate inhibitor, adding the kinetic gas hydrate inhibitor to a fluid capable of producing gas hydrates, and transporting the fluid that comprises the kinetic gas hydrate inhibitor. Generally a kinetic gas hydrate inhibitor may include a heterocyclic compound comprising nitrogen, e.g., poly(vinyl pyrrolidone). |
| US09644422B2 |
Multi-use window covering head rail
A window covering head rail assembly having a top wall, front wall, and a bottom wall attached to the front wall, a pair of parallel opposed side walls extending downwardly from the bottom wall and defining an open space, a tubular channel-shaped window covering support secured between the side walls, within the space, a pair of window covering support rail formations formed along the channel for carrying the window covering. |
| US09644421B2 |
Rolling shutter with damping body
A rolling shutter comprises a winding shaft having a rolling shutter curtain formed from metallic premade rolling shutter curtain bars. The rolling shutter curtain is configured to be wound up on the winding shaft into a winding bale, and comprises a set of damping bodies. The damping bodies are formed from a synthetic foam material, an elastomer material, and/or a textile material. The damping bodies can be detachably mounted to the rolling shutter curtain bars. |
| US09644420B1 |
Emergency shelter with improved door latching assembly
An emergency shelter includes a number of reinforced walls that define a substantially enclosed interior space in which people can enter in emergencies; a doorway opening formed in at least one of the walls to permit entry into and exit from the interior space; a door mounted over that doorway opening; and a latching assembly for latching and locking the door in its closed position. The door is configured to slide horizontally relative to the doorway opening between an open position and a closed position so that it can be opened even when debris is blown up against it. The shelter also includes a door jamb adjacent the doorway opening for receiving and partially surrounding a leading edge of the door to prevent movement of the door along an axis transverse to the horizontal sliding direction of the door so that the door does not cave in when struck by debris. A flange on the trailing edge of the door overlaps a flange on the front wall when the door is closed to prevent movement of the door along an axis transverse to the horizontal sliding direction of the door so that the trailing edge of the door does not cave in when struck by debris. The latching assembly securely latches and locks the door in its closed position but permits the door to be opened even when portions of the latching assembly are damaged. |
| US09644416B2 |
Barrier operator feature enhancement
A barrier operator feature enhancement device is designed to provide one or more features found in modern barrier operator devices and to incorporate those features into a previously installed barrier operator system. To facilitate ease of use, the barrier operator feature enhancement device can communicate with a large variety of barrier operators. Such communication may be wireless or wired, depending on the communication protocol implemented by a particular previously installed barrier operator. To facilitate the ease of installation, the device is designed to configure itself to operate with the communication protocol of the previously installed barrier operator. Once configured to be able to communicate with the previously installed barrier operator, the feature enhancement device works with the barrier operator to provide one or more additional features to enhance the capabilities of the previously installed barrier operator. |
| US09644414B1 |
No slam door guard and method of use thereof
A guard for and method of preventing household doors from slamming shut when excessive force is used while closing is disclosed. The guard includes a padded body and an attachment mechanism for hanging the guard from a door knob in a manner that allows the guard to swing freely with respect to the door knob. In some embodiments, the guard can include certain electronics to indicate and/or store “door slam events.” |
| US09644413B2 |
Seat hinge structure for saddle riding vehicle
There is provided a seat opening/closing structure for a saddle riding vehicle that suppresses the cost and simplifies the structure to enhance usability. A seat hinge 31 has a vehicle-body-side hinge 51A provided to a vehicle body side, and a seat-side hinge 52 which is turnably secured to the vehicle-body-side hinge 51A through a hinge pin 55. The seat-side hinge 52 has a projecting portion 52h extending to the vehicle-body-side hinge 51A, the vehicle-body-side hinge 51A is provided with a leaf spring 64 having a top portion 64a with which the projecting portion 52h can come into contact, and the projecting portion 52h gets over the top portion 64a of the leaf spring 64 when the seat is opened, whereby the seat-side hinge 52 is supported by the leaf spring 64 and the seat is kept under an open state. |
| US09644412B2 |
Variable friction hinge
This invention provides a hinge assembly having variable friction resistance. The hinge assembly includes an elongated element having a generally cylindrical surface extending longitudinally. It also includes at least one torque element having a generally cylindrical surface compressively engaged with the cylindrical surface of the elongated element, the cylindrical surface of the at least one torque element having end portions. An actuator of the hinge assembly is configured for changing friction resistance generated by the at least one torque element by changing the relative position of the end portions of the at least one torque element, thus reducing compressive engagement between the cylindrical surface of the at least one torque element and the cylindrical surface of the elongated element. |
| US09644411B2 |
Adjustable hinge
The hinge has a bracket for mounting on a door frame, an adjusting plate for securement to a door, a flange pivotally mounted on the bracket and disposed over the adjusting plate and captive nut assemblies for securing the flange to the adjusting plate in a releasable longitudinally adjustable manner. Loosening of the captive nut assemblies allows the door to be moved laterally of the frame before tightening of the captive nut assemblies fixes the door relative to the frame. |
| US09644410B2 |
Adjustable hinge assembly
A shower door enclosure has fixed and pivotable hinge halves which can be preinstalled to fixed and pivotable panels, respectively. One or both of the hinge halves can be adjusted at the installation site without hinge disassembly. In particular, each hinge half may be mounted to its respective panel via a fastener passing through the panel and into a floating bushing. The floating bushing is received in a seat formed in the body of the hinge half. The bushing and seat are shaped to prevent continuous rotation of the bushing within the seat, allowing the fastener to be tightened against the panel without requiring external access to the bushing. Upon assembly of the door panel to the adjacent fixed panel via the respective hinge halves, the bushings may be allowed to “float” laterally and vertically within the hinge bodies while the panels are adjusted to a proper orientation, and the fasteners may then be tightened to fix the panels in place. |
| US09644405B2 |
Door security wedge device
A device for preventing unauthorized opening of a door comprises a bracket, a main handle, and a wedge. The bracket is adapted for mounting the device to a door. The main handle is pivotably attached to the bracket. The main handle has a pivot end attached to the bracket and an opposing grasping end. The main handle is selectively pivotably movable upward and downward. The main handle is adapted such that pivoting the main handle upward moves the grasping end toward the door and pivoting the main handle downward moves the grasping end away from the door. The wedge is pivotably affixed to the main handle and biased toward the door when the main handle is in a downward position. The main handle is adapted to push a distal end of the wedge at least partly under a bottom surface of the door when the main handle is pivoted downward. |
| US09644401B2 |
Electronic lockset with multi-source energy harvesting circuit
An electronic lockset with a radio frequency harvesting circuit. In one embodiment, the electronic lockset includes a mechanical locking portion movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. One or more energy consumption devices are provided that actuate the mechanical locking portion between the locked position and the unlocked position. A rechargeable battery provides electrical power to the energy consumption devices. A radio frequency (“RF”) transmitter and RF energy harvesting circuit are used to wirelessly recharge the battery. Typically, the RF transmitter is configured to transmit at a predetermined frequency. The RF energy harvesting circuit is tuned to the predetermined frequency and is electrically coupled with the rechargeable battery to recharge the battery. |
| US09644400B1 |
Methods using intelligent door lock system
A method is provided for using an intelligent door lock system at a door. The intelligent door lock system is supplied to an individual. The intelligent door lock system includes, a position sensing device, an engine, a circuit coupled to the engine, an energy source coupled to the circuit and a device that converts energy into mechanical energy. The position sensing device of the intelligent door lock system is coupled to a drive shaft of a lock device, and the position sensing device is coupled to the circuit. Energy is supplied from the energy source to the device that converts energy into mechanical energy. The device that converts energy into mechanical energy rotates the drive shaft sufficiently to unlock or lock a lock of the lock device. |
| US09644392B2 |
Barrier cable anchor rail
A barrier cable anchor rail assembly is disclosed. The assembly is adapted to be encapsulated in a concrete column and engage a plurality of cables to provide a barrier between successive columns of concrete. The assembly includes a first rail member and a plurality of threaded connectors. The threaded connectors are adapted to be engaged by a chuck that includes cable grippers adapted to engage one of the cables. The threaded connectors can be attached to the first rail member in the same orientation with a predetermined spacing between the central axis of the plurality of threaded connectors. The first rail member maintains the orientation and predetermined spacing of the threaded connectors and provides support to the concrete column in which it is encapsulated. A barrier cable assembly adapted to form a barrier between a first concrete column and a second concrete column is also disclosed. |
| US09644389B2 |
Tent apparatus
A tent apparatus includes foot pipes, at least two beam members, girders, pulleys, cloth tubes, and a canopy. A first beam member and a second beam member are fastened perpendicular to a first pair of foot pipes and a second pair of foot pipes opposing each other respectively. The girders including internal guide rails are fastened perpendicular to the beam members. The pulleys traverse the internal guide rails of the girders. Each pulley includes a handle and wheel members in rolling communication with an internal guide rail, and a receptor member to receive and connect a cloth tube. The canopy is positioned over the cloth tubes. The canopy, attached to one of the beam members and in sliding communication with the girders, is stretched across the upper ends of the two pairs of foot pipes when the pulleys are rolled within the internal guide rails of the girders. |
| US09644386B2 |
Connection between lattice tower and nacelle
An apparatus for connecting a lattice tower to the nacelle of a wind turbine. The apparatus has high flexural rigidity and enables direct transition between the nacelle and members of the lattice tower. The apparatus includes two rings joined together with vertical plates extending between them. Upper and lower faces of the apparatus are formed by upper and lower horizontal plates. Central ribs are coupled together and with the vertical plates through a plurality of attachment pieces. The central ribs in part form a large central polygonal hole for accommodating an electrical generator. |
| US09644382B1 |
Removable swim spa cover lifter with undermount
A spa and swim spa cover lifter having a footplate with an elongated undermount that becomes secured under a spa or swim spa for added lifter stability and strength during the raising and lowering of a spa cover. The upper structure of the cover lifter is quickly and easily separated from the footplate, allowing its prompt removal for spa maintenance without the burden/expense of emptying and refilling the spa. The upper structure comprises two vertically-extending supports each having two permanently attached L-shaped brackets providing lateral sway reduction for the vertically-extending supports under load. Three fasteners removably secure each vertically-extending support and its two associated brackets to the wider/exposed end of the footplate. The bottom part of each fastener is permanently fixed to the footplate, preferably by welding. A pre-assembled body comprising adjustable spa cover support arms and lifting-assist/lowering-assist means is fixed to the vertically-extending supports using two height adjustment knobs. |
| US09644380B1 |
Replacement window cladding method and system
A window unit and replacement window cladding method and system which is provided as a single unit to be installed as a complete new window that fits over the head, side jamb and sill of an existing window frame and the old window frame that is cladded with head jamb, side jamb, and sill cover assemblies defining an opening in which one or more sash units is pivotally secured forming a replacement window unit, without any loss of glass size and egress, and without disturbing the building interior. |
| US09644379B2 |
Elevated platform system including restraining systems and vision system
An elevated platform system comprises a platform, a vision system configured to detect a number of people on the platform, and a plurality of restraining systems onboard the platform. Each restraining system includes a passive RFID tag secured to the platform and a reader configured to perform near field detection of the tag. |
| US09644377B1 |
Screed guide/control joint and mounting clip
An improved screed guide/control joint and clip for the placement of concrete in concrete slabs on a plurality of different surfaces, the clip accommodating different sized screed guides to accommodate different depths of concrete pours, the screed guide/control joint inhibiting water passage, impeding growth of weeds in the joint, and having improved lateral flexibility to the expansion and contraction of the concrete, the screed guide also allowing placement of conduits within the cover portion of the channel cavity of the screed guide. |
| US09644376B2 |
Tank farm system
A tank farm system that includes a tank configured to hold a volume of fluid; a barrier constructed at least partially around the tank; and a portable pathway disposed on the barrier. The portable pathway further includes a pliable frame member; a row of mating holes disposed on each side of the pliable frame member; a set of steps coupled to the pliable frame member; wherein one or more of the set of steps is coupled to the pliable frame member with a mount that aligns with the row of mating holes on each of the corresponding sides of the pliable frame member. |
| US09644375B2 |
Portable pathway apparatus
A portable pathway apparatus for providing a path over a surface, the portable pathway comprising: a pliable frame member; a row of mating holes disposed on each side of the pliable frame member; a set of steps coupled to the pliable frame member; wherein one or more of the set of steps is coupled to the pliable frame member with a mount that aligns with the row of mating holes on each of the corresponding sides of the pliable frame member. |
| US09644372B2 |
High-strength H-beam steel exhibiting excellent low-temperature toughness and method of manufacturing same
This H-beam steel contains, in mass %, C, Si, Mn, Al, Ti, N, O, Nb, and B. The H-beam steel has composition in which the amount of Nb and the amount of B satisfy, in mass %, 0.070≦Nb+125B≦0.155, and has a metal structure in which, in a microstructure, an area fraction of bainite is not less than 70%, a total of an area fraction of pearlite and an area fraction of cementite is not more than 15%, and the remainder is at least one of ferrite and island martensite. The effective crystalline-grain size of the bainite is not more than 40 μm, and the thickness of a flange falls in a range of 12 to 40 mm. |
| US09644371B2 |
Board panel
The present invention is transportable economically in a flat state, and easy to attach and detach, and can provide a curved surface simply while maintaining decoration and strength without craftsmanship. Slits are provided on a rectangular board panel comprising two or more layers of a hard material and a soft material. Two or more layers comprising a hard material and a soft material are laminated on a rectangular board panel, and slits having a length of ½ to ¾ of the vertical side are provided thereto. The use of slits makes formation of curved surfaces easy. Since there is no need to reinforce the outside to maintain the strength thereof, the board panel can be removed easily. Even if in external pressure is applied to the board panel, the flexibility of the hard material divided by the slits and the elastic characteristic of the soft material cause the pressure to be dispersed and absorbed. |
| US09644370B2 |
Trusses for use in building construction and methods of installing same
A truss assembly for use in building construction, comprising a first truss and one or more second trusses attached to the first truss to extend transversely to a face of the first truss upon erection of the truss assembly, wherein the or each second truss is hingedly connected to the first truss for swinging movement about a substantially vertical axis between a folded configuration in which the second truss lies adjacent the face of the first truss and an erected configuration in which the second truss extends transversely to said face. |
| US09644369B2 |
Post-tension concrete leave out splicing system and method
Devices, systems, and methods for constructing post-tensioned concrete slabs in a new floor construction that has a reduced gap distance between the slabs. The devices, systems, and methods can improve project construction time by reducing the time delay in accessing the floor underneath the slabs due to safety and/or weather conditions. |
| US09644366B2 |
Method and system for urban room structures
Some embodiments include a structural building that supports attachment of modular rooms. The structural building can include one or more anchoring structures fixated to its building frame. A moveable modular room can be adapted to be detachably connectable to at least one of the anchoring structures. The modular room can be adapted with fixture features for a customized application to use the modular room. The anchoring structures can be adapted to enable replacement of the moveable modular room, as a single unit, by another moveable modular room. The moveable modular room can be a configurable room. |
| US09644364B2 |
Deck drainage systems
Disclosed are various embodiments of deck drainage systems. In some embodiments, the deck drainage system includes a hanger. The hanger can include a first arm and a second arm. A fastener is configured to be inserted into an opening formed in the first arm. The second arm extends from the first arm, and the second arm forms a slot for an end section of a floor panel. |
| US09644363B2 |
Linear drain assemblies and methods of use
A linear drain assembly includes at least one end attachment attachable to a longitudinal end of a drain body. The at least one end attachment has a permanent structural cover, a first drain channel formed below the cover and extending in a longitudinal direction along the at least one end attachment. The first drain channel has a closed end extending in both the longitudinal direction and a transverse direction across the first drain channel. A first slotted channel is formed in the cover and extends in the longitudinal direction along the at least one end attachment. The first slotted channel is in fluid communication with the first drain channel. The closed end of the first drain channel is arranged to direct debris moving through the first drain channel toward the first slotted inlet. |
| US09644362B2 |
Urinal with sanitation device
A urinal with a sanitation device capable of preventing the generation of a smell and urine scale with reliability without reducing a water conservation effect. In the urinal US, a liquid agent is ejected in different modes by predetermined timing according to areas on the urinal US. |
| US09644357B2 |
Toilet overflow prevention system and method
A system for preventing overflow of a toilet includes a sensor, a processor and an actuator. The sensor senses a parameter caused by fluid dynamics within the toilet during a flush cycle. The parameter may involve vibration, sound, pressure, fluid flow rate or other detectible characteristics of the toilet. The processor uses information regarding the parameter that is gathered by the sensor to evaluate the condition of the flush cycle to determine if an impeded flush condition exists. In the event of an impeded flush condition, the processor directs the actuator to close a valve, which may be the toilet flapper valve in some embodiments. Also disclosed are methods for preventing toilet overflow, detecting an impeded flush condition and calibrating the system. |
| US09644355B2 |
Throughflow controller
The invention relates to a sanitary insert part (1) having an insert housing (2), which (2) includes in a housing interior thereof a functional element (3) that controls throughflow and that has at least one throughflow orifice (4). The insert part according to the invention is characterized in that at least one throughflow opening (4) is delimited by a peripheral wall, the shape of which can be changed against a restoring force as a result of the pressure of the inflowing water in such a manner that the at least one throughflow orifice (4) has a variable orifice cross section which can be changed, in dependence on the pressure of the inflowing water, between an open position and a minimized position having a reduced orifice cross section by comparison. |
| US09644354B2 |
Foot actuated fluid control valve
A hands-free faucet control device includes a water valve assembly, a foot peddle assembly and a pull wire connected there between. A continuously-formed injection molded valve housing includes two cylindrically-shaped apertures disposed adjacent to one another where each has an inlet water port and an outlet water port. A valve is disposed in each of the apertures, where both valves are simultaneously movable between a closed position and an open position. A foot pedal assembly includes a foot peddle bracket and an attached foot pedal, where the foot pedal is movable between an up position and a down position. A pull wire is connected at a pull wire first end to the proximal end of the valve and connected at a pull wire second end to the foot pedal, wherein movement of the foot pedal to the down position by a user moves the valves to the open position. |
| US09644350B2 |
System for recycling grey water
System and method of recycling grey water, and more particularly a system and method to utilize grey water resulting from a cleaning activity such as a laundry or shower as an environmentally safe form of irrigation. In accordance with one embodiment of said system, pressure sensors and transmitters in various zones may be communicatively coupled to a system controller capable of regulating the use of at least one variable frequency drive with said system. |
| US09644348B2 |
Ground engaging tooth assemblies
A ground engaging tip may include a rear edge including upper and lower rear edges. The ground engaging tip may also include a front edge opposite the rear edge. The ground engaging tip may further include a top outer surface extending from the upper rear edge toward the front edge, and a bottom outer surface extending from the lower rear edge toward the front edge. The bottom outer surface may include a bottom surface front portion extending from the front edge toward the lower rear edge and terminating at a bottom surface transition portion, and a bottom surface rear portion extending from the transition portion toward the lower rear edge. The bottom surface front portion and rear portions may include respective front and rear portion surfaces extending in respective first and second directions defining an angle, such that the bottom surface rear portion extends toward the top outer surface. |
| US09644345B2 |
System and method for controlling a drive unit of a work machine during an idle state
The present disclosure provides a method of controlling a drive speed of a drive unit powering a work machine. The method includes determining if a control switch is in an enabled position and detecting if a control mechanism is moved within a defined period of time to operate the machine to perform a function. The method also includes detecting if a control means has been positioned in the active state once the control mechanism is not moved within the defined period of time. The method further includes sending a signal to a drive unit controller to shut off the drive unit when the control means is triggered to the active state. The drive unit is turned off as electrical energy continues to be provided from an energy storage device to at least the vehicle control unit, drive unit controller, and sensor after the drive unit is turned off. |
| US09644342B1 |
Screening bucket system
A screening bucket system for screening debris out of otherwise clean materials. The screening bucket system generally includes a bucket adapted to be connected to a loader. The bucket includes a rear wall, a pair of side walls, and a blade across its front end. A floor of the bucket is hingedly connected at a front end to the side walls by a hinge. The rear end of the floor includes a rod mount to which a lift rod powered by a motor is rotatably connected such that, when the lift rod is raised or lowered, the free end of the floor raises and lowers while the hinged end of the floor rotates about the hinge. A screen may be positioned on the floor such that materials on the screen may be sifted of debris by activating the lift rod to rapidly raise and lower the floor and screen. |
| US09644341B2 |
Motor grader
A circle rotator of a motor grader includes a worm, a worm wheel and a shaft. The worm wheel has an inner peripheral portion, an outer peripheral portion enclosing the inner peripheral portion from outside, and a plurality of first clutch discs to be spline-coupled to the inner peripheral surface of the inner peripheral portion. The inner peripheral portion is made of a material harder than a material of which the outer peripheral portion is made. |
| US09644339B2 |
Damper operation control device and damper operation control method for working vehicle
A damper operation control device of a working vehicle, includes: a boom pivotably supported on a vehicle body; a bucket pivotably supported on a tip end of the boom; a lift cylinder which drives the boom; an accumulator connected to the lift cylinder through a branched oil passage; a switching valve connected to the branched oil passage between the lift cylinder and the accumulator, the switching valve switching between a connected state and a disconnected state between the lift cylinder and the accumulator; and a controller which performs switch control of the switching valve, wherein the controller includes: a state detecting unit which detects whether the bucket is in a loaded state; and a switching valve control unit which switches the switching valve to the connected state when the state detecting unit detects that the bucket is in the loaded state. |
| US09644337B1 |
Systems and methods for positioning and anchoring columns
A system for positioning and anchoring columns. The system includes a positioning template having a first frame configured to support horizontal panels, jacking mechanisms for leveling the horizontal panels, a first opening defined by the horizontally aligned panels configured to guide a sleeve when driven downward below grade level through the first opening, and a tubular sleeve for passing through the first opening and for receiving a second frame. The second frame includes frame members defining a second opening on each end of the second frame and a plurality of elongated bars spanning between the first end and the second end. The second frame is for guiding a pile when driven downward. A pile having a first end and an opposing second end is configured for receiving a connecting tube of a column. A column having a connecting tube is to inserted into the pile's first end. |
| US09644335B1 |
Method and apparatus for mechanical recovery of hydrocarbons in broken ocean ice conditions
A system for collecting oil from mixed ice and water conditions. The system uses suction pods that are welded along the hull of a vessel. These pods are elongated vertically and have a vertical slit opening that allow oiled water to enter into the suction box during wave action. Each vertical opening is covered with stainless steel mesh layers to inhibit smaller ice from entering the suction box. Inside each of the suction boxes is a horizontal floating suction bar that is connected to a flexible suction hose. The suction bar is free floating within the suction box so that collection always occurs at the water's surface. The collection line from the suction box leads to a collection and separation area. The suction boxes are protected by heavy-duty metallic “bumper that are welded to the hull to protect the suction box arrays. |
| US09644334B2 |
Methods of and systems for controlling water flow, breaking water waves and reducing surface erosion along rivers, streams, waterways and coastal regions
Improved breakwater construction blocks and interlocking shear key blocks for use in constructing diverse systems and works, in broad fields of use including, but not limited to, coastal engineering: river, stream and torrent control, bulkhead designed projects, scour control, check dams, permeable and impermeable groins-both river and ocean structures and other hydraulic works including marinas. |
| US09644333B2 |
Erosion control sediment barrier
An erosion control sediment barrier is disclosed. Specifically, erosion control sediment barriers are provided comprised of a filter component shaped to fit over a pipeline in a trench that is tacked or held in place through the use of an adhesive foam, such as urethane foam. |
| US09644326B1 |
Monolithic paver
Various monolithic pavers are one-piece pavers with no seams, joints, or connections. A monolithic paver can be formed via three dimensional (3D) printing or molding. The monolithic paver is designed to carry applied loads to paver support(s) via structural members of the monolithic paver. The monolithic paver is formed to include parallel structural members that are spaced with gaps there between. The parallel structural members include top flanges and webs. The parallel structural members can also include bottom flanges. Moreover, the monolithic paver can have exterior sides that have tongues and grooves formed there along; tongues can be formed along adjoining exterior sides of the monolithic paver. |
| US09644322B2 |
Solid articles from poly alpha-1,3-glucan and wood pulp
A solid article formed from poly alpha-1,3-glucan and wood pulp is disclosed as are methods for making the solid article. The articles are not water sensitive and are useful for producing strong molded articles from wood pulp. |
| US09644315B2 |
Method for inkjet textile printing
Method for inkjet textile printing comprising a printing step for printing an aqueous pigment ink on a specifically pretreated portion of a textile fiber product by an inkjet process,wherein said specific pretreatment is performed by applying at least: (A) a quaternary ammonium salt type cationic surfactant represented by the formula (1) below, and (B) a block isocyanate compound to the entire textile fiber product or a required portion thereof, and said aqueous pigment ink comprises at least a pigment, an aqueous liquid as a solvent or dispersion medium, and: (C) a water-soluble dispersing agent having a crosslinking property, (D) a self-emulsifying type urethane resin, and (E) a block isocyanate compound. [Two of R1 to R4: alkyl having 8 to 18 carbon atoms; the remaining two: methyl or ethyl; X−: anion.] |
| US09644310B2 |
Household clothes drying machine with clothes disinfection cycle
Clothes drying machine comprising a drum holding the clothes to be dried, a first fan adapted to blow a first flow of drying air through said drum, and possibly a condenser adapted to condense the moisture out of the drying air exiting said drum. The machine is provided with a drying program that includes a step involving an increase in the temperature of the air introduced in said drum, in which said temperature is increased to a value of at least 130° C. and held there for a pre-set period of time, and said temperature increase step is provided in the initial portion of the drying program, when the moisture content of the clothes is not less than 20%. |
| US09644308B2 |
Nozzle formed in a dispensing apparatus
A washing machine appliance and a fluid additive dispenser are provided. The fluid additive dispenser includes one or more features for containing and dispensing fluid additives. The fluid additive dispenser also includes a spray nozzle formed or molded in a shower plate of the dispenser. |
| US09644305B2 |
Drive motor for drum washing machine
A drive motor includes: a double stator including a stator core, a first coil wound on one side of the stator core, and a second coil wound around the other side of the stator core; and a double rotor including a rotor support connected to a drum via a rotating shaft, an outer rotor fixed to the rotor support and arranged with a gap on the outer surface of the stator, and an inner rotor fixed to the rotor support and arranged with a gap on the inner surface of the stator. The drive motor drives to rotate two rotors of the double rotor by applying a drive power to the first and second coils at wash and rinsing strokes, and drives to rotate only one rotor of the double rotor by applying the drive power to only one of the first and second coils at a dehydration stroke. |
| US09644302B2 |
Washing machine
A washing machine that includes an integrated tub/drum that holds water, accommodates laundry, and rotates; a hollow rotary shaft coupled to and passing through one surface of the integrated tub/drum; a water supply pipe and a water drain pipe in the integrated tub/drum and through a passage or opening in the hollow rotary shaft; a nozzle that extends upward from an end of the water supply pipe that is in the integrated tub/drum; and a water drain that extends downward from an end of the water drain pipe that is in the integrated tub/drum. |
| US09644301B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating laundry items
A method of operation for a laundry treating appliance having a treating chamber for receiving laundry for treatment includes a pre-wetting phase, a wash phase, and a rinse phase and further includes a dye fixative phase, a first dye absorber phase, and a second dye absorber phase. |
| US09644299B2 |
Clothes treating apparatus and method
A clothes treating system includes a treating chamber for receiving clothes and a treating fluid therein, and a piston having a piston head. The piston can be adapted for reciprocating linear motion. Reciprocating motion of the piston head within the chamber agitates the clothes. An inner false wall can be contained within the chamber, and can have a corrugated surface providing frictional agitation of the clothes as the clothes are moved against the corrugated surface by the reciprocal motion of the piston head. |
| US09644294B2 |
Device for manufacturing a fibrous product
This forming device is intended to be mounted on a flight (6) of a conveyor for transporting a fibrous product through a heating device, where the flight (6) defines a receiving surface (63) for the fibrous product. The forming device has a forming block (8), a main part (81) of which is intended to be arranged at the front of the receiving surface (63), and at least one anchoring element (9) which is intended to be fixed to the flight by being arranged at the rear of the receiving surface (63). The forming block (8) and the anchoring element (9) comprise complementary snap-fastening members (89, 99) which, when the main part (81) of the forming block (8) is opposite the receiving surface (63) and the anchoring element (9) is fixed to the flight (6) at the rear of the receiving surface (63), are able to engage by the application of a one-way pushing force (F1) that pushes the main part (81) of the forming block (8) towards the receiving surface (63) in a transverse direction (X) with respect to the receiving surface (63). |
| US09644293B2 |
Knitted fabric and garment using the same
A knitted fabric includes: a first knitted fabric region and a second knitted fabric region. The first region and the second region have different elongations from each other. The knitted fabric further includes buffer regions. The buffer regions are provided in at least one of the first region and the second region so as to be in contact with the first region and the second region. The buffer regions each have an elongation set so that, as the buffer region extends toward either one of the first region and the second region, the difference between the elongation of the buffer region and the elongation of the first region or the second region toward which the buffer region extends is reduced gradually. Between the first region and the second region, there is no boundary line that is substantially parallel to the course direction of the knitted fabric. |
| US09644285B2 |
Direct liquid injection for halide vapor phase epitaxy systems and methods
Methods of depositing compound semiconductor materials on one or more substrates include metering and controlling a flow rate of a precursor liquid from a precursor liquid source into a vaporizer. The precursor liquid may comprise at least one of GaCl3, InCl3, and AlCl3 in a liquid state. The precursor liquid may be vaporized within the vaporizer to form a first precursor vapor. The first precursor vapor and a second precursor vapor may be caused to flow into a reaction chamber, and a compound semiconductor material may be deposited on a surface of a substrate within the reaction chamber from the precursor vapors. Deposition systems for performing such methods include devices for metering and/or controlling a flow of a precursor liquid from a liquid source to a vaporizer, while the precursor liquid remains in the liquid state. |
| US09644280B2 |
Process for electrolytically depositing a tin- and ruthenium-based alloy, the electrolytic bath therefore and the alloy obtained therewith
The invention refers to the electrolytic deposit of a tin- and ruthenium-based alloy having good features of corrosion resistance. In particular, the invention refers to an ecologically compatible process to achieve the electrolytic deposit of the alloy and to the operative conditions to make the deposit. Moreover, the invention refers to the electrolytic bath from which the alloy is caused to electro-deposit. In particular, the electrolytic bath is advantageously distinguished by the total absence of toxic metals and cyanides. The invention refers also to the alloy obtained through that process, as well as to the object/manufactured article covered with the alloy obtained through that process. |
| US09644279B2 |
Zinc-nickel alloy plating solution and plating method
To provide a high-nickel plating bath which is weakly acidic and can stably form a plating film having a nickel content of 11 to 19% (preferably 12 to 18%) even at a current density of 3 A/dm2 or more. An acidic zinc-nickel alloy electroplating solution which contains an amine compound represented by the formula H2N—R1-R2 {wherein: R1 is [(CH2)M—NH]L or (CH2)N; R2 is H, NH2, or R3; R3 is an alkanol or alkoxyl group having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 carbon atoms; L is 2, 3, 4, or 5; M is 2, 3, 4, or 5; and N is 3, 4, or 5}. |
| US09644276B2 |
Semiconductor photoelectrode, photoelectrochemical cell, hydrogen generation method, and energy system
Provided is a semiconductor photoelectrode comprising a first conductive layer; a first n-type semiconductor layer disposed on the first conductive layer; and a second conductive layer covering the first n-type semiconductor layer. The first n-type semiconductor layer has a first n-type surface region and a second n-type surface region. The first n-type surface region is in contact with the first conductive layer. The second n-type surface region is in contact with the second conductive layer. The first n-type semiconductor layer is formed of at least one selected from the group consisting of a nitride semiconductor and an oxynitride semiconductor. The second conductive layer is light-transmissive. The second conductive layer is formed of a p-type oxide conductor. |
| US09644275B2 |
Method for preparation of graphene using spontaneous process
The present invention relates to a method for preparing graphene using a spontaneous process, and particularly, to a method for mass-producing high-quality graphene composed of a single layer or several layers by using lithium intercalation of a graphite electrode occurring during the process of charging a lithium ion battery and a lithium ion capacitor in the preparation of graphene to form a graphite intercalation compound, and performing exfoliation through a reaction with water (or alcohol). |
| US09644273B2 |
Protective barrier coatings
Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide barrier coated substrates and methods of coating a substrate with a barrier coating derived from sol gels. An example includes a barrier coated aerospace component that is subject to hot salt corrosion during use. The barrier coating is derived from oxidation of a coating composition that includes at least one sol gel. The barrier coating resists hot salt corrosion for an incubation period of such duration that an uncoated superalloy substrate under the same conditions would suffer corrosion to a depth of about 2.0 mils. Methods of applying the barrier coating include the steps of selecting a first liquid sol gel and wetting surfaces of the superalloy substrate with the selected first liquid sol gel. The wetted surfaces of the superalloy substrate are subjected to heat treatment. The heat treatment includes sintering of sol gel to oxide to produce a barrier coating. |
| US09644272B2 |
Thin film deposition apparatus and method of manufacturing organic light-emitting display apparatus by using the same
Disclosed is a thin film deposition apparatus and a method of manufacturing an organic light-emitting display apparatus by using the thin film deposition apparatus. The thin film deposition apparatus and the method of manufacturing the organic light-emitting display apparatus using the thin film deposition apparatus reduce manufacturing time and cost. |
| US09644268B2 |
Thermal bridge for chemical vapor deposition reactors
A thermal bridge connecting first and second processing zones and a method for transferring a work piece from a first to a second processing zone by way of the thermal bridge are disclosed. A work piece, transportable from the first to the second processing zone on or above the thermal bridge, is maintained at a temperature between the temperatures of the processing zones. The thermal bridge member features a thermally conductive transport member for the work piece supported over an infrared transmissive member that is insulative to heat conduction and convection. The bridge insulative member extends between the first and second processing zones or between reactors. An infrared radiation beam source emits infrared radiation which passes through the bridge insulative member to the transport member, heating the member. In an alternate embodiment, the transport member may be heated directly. A liner member may be mounted above the bridge member to retain heat. |
| US09644267B2 |
Multi-gas straight channel showerhead
A method and apparatus that may be utilized for chemical vapor deposition and/or hydride vapor phase epitaxial (HVPE) deposition are provided. In one embodiment, a metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) process is used to deposit a Group III-nitride film on a plurality of substrates. A Group III precursor, such as trimethyl gallium, trimethyl aluminum or trimethyl indium and a nitrogen-containing precursor, such as ammonia, are delivered to a plurality of straight channels which isolate the precursor gases. The precursor gases are injected into mixing channels where the gases are mixed before entering a processing volume containing the substrates. Heat exchanging channels are provided for temperature control of the mixing channels to prevent undesirable condensation and reaction of the precursors. |
| US09644266B2 |
Film forming apparatus, gas supply device and film forming method
There is provided a film forming apparatus including gas supply paths, retaining units, valves, a purge gas supply unit and a control unit. The control unit is configured to implements a film forming process for sequentially performing operations of actuating the valves such that reaction gases are retained in the retaining units, the internal pressures of the retaining units are increased and then the reaction gases are supplied from the retaining units into the process chamber, and a purging process for subsequently repeating, a plurality number of times, operations of actuating the valves such that the purge gas is retained in the retaining units, the internal pressures of the retaining units are increased to a pressure higher than the internal pressures of the retaining units which is increased in the film forming process, and then the purge gas is supplied from the retaining units into the process chamber. |
| US09644264B2 |
Evaporation method and film deposition method
Because an evaporating apparatus for use in an MOCVD film deposition system has a structure in which a plurality of gas passages brings in a gas from the upper direction, the apparatus has a difficulty to position a jet nozzle, and the apparatus is incapable of accurately controlling the pressure and flow rate of a carrier gas mixed with a raw material solution to be issued into an evaporating unit, and it is thus difficult to highly accurately control the composition of MOCVD films. A plurality of gas passages is arranged on a flat, disk-shaped plate. With this configuration, the accurate positioning of the jet nozzle can be made easier, and the composition of MOCVD films can be controlled highly accurately. |
| US09644262B2 |
Self-centering process shield
A process shield may include an elongated annular body having an outer surface and an inner surface; a lip extending radially outward from the outer surface of the body proximate a first end of the body such that a first portion of the body extends beyond the lip toward the first end; a plurality of openings in the lip; and a pin disposed in each of the plurality of openings to align the target assembly atop the process shield when the lid is placed atop the process shield, wherein the pin comprises an elongated body having a first surface with a beveled peripheral edge, wherein the first surface has a first diameter, a second surface opposing the first surface, wherein the second surface has a second diameter, and a sidewall, between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the sidewall has a concave portion having a third diameter. |
| US09644261B2 |
Apparatus for sputtering and a method of fabricating a metallization structure
A method of depositing a metallization structure (1) comprises depositing a TaN layer (4) by applying a power supply between an anode and a target in a plurality of pulses to reactively sputter Ta from the target onto the substrate (2) to form a TaN seed layer (4). A Ta layer (5) is deposited onto the TaN seed layer (4) by applying the power supply in a plurality of pulses and applying a high-frequency signal to a pedestal supporting the substrate (2) to generate a self-bias field adjacent to the substrate (2). |
| US09644260B1 |
Portable sputtering apparatus and method
A portable sputtering apparatus for repairing the damaged surface on aircrafts comprises: a cylindrical chamber, having a top chamber plate and a bottom chamber plate. The cylindrical chamber comprises a welded flange for attachment to a high vacuum system and a first tube and flange assembly for attachment to an inert gas bottle. The top chamber plate comprises a cathode housing, comprising a cathode coated with the material to be sputtered onto the surface of the aircraft, and a second tube and flange assembly for discharge of pressure within the chamber. The bottom chamber plate comprises a second housing that attaches to the surface of an aircraft. Within the second housing is a metal sheet, having an aperture that allows sputtered material to flow onto the surface of the aircraft. The material to be sputtered may be carbon composite or copper. |
| US09644259B2 |
Apparatus for coating substrates using the EB/PVD method
An apparatus for coating substrates with a coating material is disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame, a crucible arrangement including a first crucible and a second crucible disposed offset from one another in a horizontal plane, where the crucible arrangement is disposed on the frame. At least one first shaft is associated with the first crucible and at least one second shaft is associated with the second crucible, where the at least one first and second shafts are disposed in the frame beneath the first and second crucibles, respectively. A first lifting device is associated with the at least one first shaft and a second lifting device is associated with the at least one second shaft, where the first and second lifting devices are disposed in the frame. The frame is linearly displaceable in the horizontal plane. |
| US09644256B2 |
Mask assembly and thin film deposition method using the same
A mask assembly and a thin film deposition method using the same are provided.The mask assembly includes a mask frame including first to fourth sides. The first to fourth sides form a rectangle. Inner sides of the rectangle define a window. The mask frame has a plurality of substrate seating portions provided to project toward the window from at least two corners. The two corners face each other in a diagonal direction. The mask assembly includes four corners positioned where the first to fourth sides of the mask assembly meet each other. A mask includes a plurality of openings for deposition. The plurality of openings are arranged to correspond to the window. |
| US09644252B2 |
Hot stamped high strength part excellent in post painting anticorrosion property and method of production of same
A hot stamped high strength part in which the propagation of cracks which form at the plating layer at the time of hot stamping when hot stamping aluminum plated steel sheet is suppressed and the post painting anticorrosion property is excellent even without adding special ingredient elements which suppress formation of cracks in an aluminum plating layer is provided. A hot stamped high strength part which is excellent in post painting anticorrosion property, which hot stamped high strength part has an alloy plating layer which includes an Al—Fe intermetallic compound phase on the surface of the steel sheet, wherein the alloy plating layer is comprised from phases of a plurality of intermetallic compounds, a mean linear intercept length of crystal grains of a phase containing A1: 40 to 65 mass % among the phases of the plurality of intermetallic compounds is 3 to 20 μm, an average value of thickness of the Al—Fe alloy plating layer is 10 to 50 μm, and a ratio of the average value of thickness to the standard deviation of thickness of the Al—Fe alloy plating layer satisfies the following relationship: ◯ |
| US09644251B2 |
Cu—Zr-based copper alloy plate and process for manufacturing same
Provided are a Cu—Zr-based copper alloy plate which retains satisfactory mechanical strength and, at the same time, has a good balance of bending formability and bending elastic limit at a high level and a process for manufacturing the Cu—Zr-based copper alloy plate. The copper alloy plate contains 0.05% to 0.2% by mass of Zr and a remainder including Cu and unavoidable impurities, and the average value of KAM values measured by an EBSD method using a scanning electron microscope equipped with a backscattered electron diffraction pattern system is 1.5° to 1.8°, the R/t ratio is 0.1 to 0.6 wherein R represents the minimum bending radius which does not cause a crack and t represents the thickness of the plate in a W bending test, and the bending elastic limit is 420 N/mm2 to 520 N/mm2. |
| US09644250B2 |
Copper alloy sheet for electric and electronic part
A shear plane ratio is reduced by a dislocation density in which a value obtained by dividing the half-value width β of the intensity of diffraction of {311} plane in the surface of a Cu—Fe—P alloy sheet, by its peak height H, is 0.015 or more. In addition, a Cu—Fe—P alloy sheet with relatively small Fe content is provided with a texture in which a ratio (I(200)/I(220)) of intensity of diffraction of (I(200)) from the (200) plane in the sheet surface to intensity of diffraction of (I(220)) from the (220) plane, is 0.3 or less. In addition, a Cu—Fe—P alloy sheet with relatively small Fe content is provided with a texture in which the orientation distribution density of Brass orientation measured by the crystal orientation analysis method using an EBSP by an FE-SEM, is 25% or more; and an average grain size in the sheet is 6.0 μm or less. |
| US09644249B2 |
Production of aluminium-scandium alloys
A process for producing an aluminum-scandium based alloy from aluminum and scandium chloride, the process also producing aluminum chloride as a by-product and including the step of reducing scandium chloride in the presence of aluminum in a reaction zone and under reaction conditions which favor production of the aluminum-scandium based alloy. |
| US09644246B2 |
Degasser snorkel with serpentine flow path cooling
A snorkel (10) having a double shell core (16, 26) that defines an annular gap (40) between the shells and that has an array of baffles (66) arranged in the annular gap to define a serpentine flow path for cooling gases that pass through the annular gap. In an embodiment, a snorkel includes a flange (12) that defines an internal passageway (84) such that the fluid pathway through annular gap (40) includes passage of cooling medium through internal passageway (84). |
| US09644243B2 |
MicroRNA polymorphisms conferring enhanced drought tolerance in a plant
Methods of identifying a single nucleotide polymorphism associated with a plant trait and methods of identifying a plant having an improved trait. The plant trait is correlated with at least one single nucleotide polymorphism in a microRNA region of a plant genome. Isolated nucleic acids, transgenic plants, and methods of producing the same are also disclosed. |
| US09644238B2 |
Methods of isolating non-senescent cardiac stem cells and uses thereof
The invention describes the isolation and methods of use of a non-senescent pool of adult cardiac stem cells. In particular, a subset of adult cardiac stem cells with superior regenerative capacity is disclosed. Such cells were found to have immortal DNA. Compositions comprising the non-senescent stem cells are also described. In addition, the present invention provides methods for repairing aged myocardium or damaged myocardium using the isolated non-senescent adult cardiac stem cells. |
| US09644236B2 |
Biomolecule sequencing devices, systems and methods
Devices, systems and methods for sequencing protein samples are provided. In some examples, currents generated when a monomer passes through between electrodes of a nanogap electrode pair are measured for each of several different distances, so that monomers are identified when compared to a reference physical quantity of a known monomer, which may be obtained from a current measured with a similar inter-electrode distance(s) at which each of plural kinds of monomers are identifiable and ordered with predetermined accuracy and based on a detected physical quantity obtained from a tunneling current, which may be further normalized by the use of one or more reference substances. |
| US09644231B2 |
Nucleic acid detection using probes
The invention provides a method for detecting a target nucleotide sequence by tagging the nucleotide sequence with a nucleotide tag, providing a probe oligonucleotide with a melting temperature Tm1, comprising a regulatory sequence and a nucleotide tag recognition sequence; incorporating the probe oligonucleotide into the tagged polynucleotide in a polynucleotide amplification reaction, providing a regulatory oligonucleotide with a melting temperature Tm2, comprising a sequence segment that complementary to the regulatory sequence and a tail segment that does not hybridize to the probe nucleotide when the sequence segment and the regulatory sequence are annealed, amplifying the tagged target nucleic acid sequence in a PCR amplification reaction using the probe oligonucleotide as a primer, and using a DNA polymerase with high strand displacement activity and low 5′-nuclease activity, and detecting the amplification product; wherein Tm1 and Tm2 are higher than the annealing temperature associated with the polynucleotide amplification reaction. |
| US09644226B2 |
Method for producing vectors containing a gene coding for an enzyme having reduced or deactivated feedback inhibition and the use thereof for producing amino acids and nucleotides
A method for producing vectors containing a gene coding for an enzyme having reduced or deactivated feedback inhibition and to the use thereof for producing amino acids and nucleotide. Genes coding for feedback-inhibited enzymes are mutagenized in vitro, —ligated into vectors in a further step—the vectors are each transformed in a microorganism containing a metabolite sensor in a further step, which brings about the synthesis of a fluorescent protein at an increased metabolite concentration, —whereupon microorganisms exhibiting increased or maximum fluorescence are selected; and —the vectors that contain a gene coding for an enzyme having reduced or deactivated feedback inhibition are isolated from microorganisms having increased or maximum fluorescence. |
| US09644223B2 |
Hyperthermostable endoglucanase belonging to GH family 12
A hyperthermostable endoglucanase including an endoglucanase catalytic domain, the endoglucanase catalytic domain including: (A) a polypeptide including an amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1; (B) a polypeptide including an amino acid sequence in which at least one amino acid is deleted, substituted, or added in the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1, and having hydrolytic activity using p-nitrophenyl-β-D-cellobioside as a substrate at least under conditions of a temperature of 100° C. and a pH of 5.5; or (C) a polypeptide including an amino acid sequence having at least 70% sequence identity with the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1, and having hydrolytic activity using p-nitrophenyl-β-D-cellobioside as a substrate at least under conditions of a temperature of 100° C. and a pH of 5.5. |
| US09644221B2 |
Method of producing chemical by continuous fermentation and continuous fermentation apparatus
A method of producing a chemical includes culturing cells in a culture solution in a fermentor to ferment a feedstock to produce a chemical; supplying the culture solution containing the chemical produced in the culturing to a plurality of separation membrane units arranged in parallel; filtering the culture solution supplied in the supplying to separate a permeate containing the chemical; refluxing a retentate that is not filtered in the filtering to the fermentor; and supplying a gas containing oxygen to the plurality of separation membrane units while a supply amount is changed to at least two different values to perform scrubbing, wherein the supply amount and supply time of the gas containing oxygen supplied in the culturing and the supplying the gas are set so that a kLa value is within a predetermined range from an optimal kLa value for the cells cultured in the culturing. |
| US09644218B2 |
Fermentation process
The present invention pertains to a fermentation process for the production of an organic acid salt including the steps of fermenting a microorganism in a fermentation medium in a fermentation reactor to form a fermentation broth having an organic acid salt, wherein part of the organic acid salt is present in the solid state and part of the organic acid salt is dissolved in the fermentation broth; withdrawing at least part of the fermentation broth from the fermentation reactor, providing the broth to a hydrocyclone, and withdrawing a top effluent and a bottom effluent from the hydrocyclone; providing the bottom effluent from the hydrocyclone to a solid/liquid separation step, to form a solid fraction and a liquid fraction, providing at least 30 vol. % of the total of the top effluent from the hydrocyclone and the liquid fraction from the solid-liquid separation step to the fermentation reactor. |
| US09644216B2 |
Adeno-associated virus vectors for treatment of glycogen storage disease
The present disclosure describes improved adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for gene therapy applications in the treatment of glycogen storage disease, particularly glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD-Ia). Described are recombinant nucleic acid molecules, vectors and recombinant AAV that include a G6PC promoter/enhancer, a synthetic intron, a G6PC coding sequence (such as a wild-type or codon-optimized G6PC coding sequence), and stuffer nucleic acid sequence situated between the G6PC promoter/enhancer and the intron, as well as between the intron and the G6PC coding sequence. The recombinant AAVs disclosed herein exhibit highly efficient liver transduction and are capable of correcting metabolic abnormalities in an animal model of GSD-Ia. |
| US09644215B2 |
AAV1-caspase gene therapy induced pyroptosis for the treatment of tumors
Described herein are compositions and methods for treating, inhibiting, preventing, reducing the severity of and/or reducing the progression of schwannoma, as well as any disease or physiological disease-state in which schwannoma plays a role. The compositions comprise an rAAV vector that includes a caspase-1 gene or a variant thereof and a Schwann cell specific promoter. |
| US09644211B2 |
Plasmid for minicircle production
The present invention relates to a plasmid for minicircle production, a method for providing a minicircle and a minicircle produced by said method as well as a pharmaceutical composition comprising the same. |
| US09644208B2 |
MiRNA for regulating FABP6 gene and method of using the same
A molecular marker miRNA for sheep breeding. The target gene of the miRNA is FABP6, and the miRNA inhibits the expression of the gene FABP6 in the adipose tissue of sheep. |
| US09644205B2 |
Synthetic promoter for modulating gene expression
The present invention provides nucleic acid constructs, expression vectors, transgenic cell and methods of making and using the same, wherein the nucleic acid construct includes a synthetic promoter designed using selected PDX-1 activation sites such as those observed in the human insulin promoter (HIP). In illustrative working embodiments of the invention, an exogenous nucleic acid fragment encoding thymidine kinase is operably linked to the synthetic promoter which is then shown to regulate the expression of this polypeptide. |
| US09644204B2 |
Partitioning and processing of analytes and other species
The present disclosure provides compositions, methods, systems, and devices for polynucleotide processing. Such polynucleotide processing may be useful for a variety of applications, including polynucleotide sequencing. |
| US09644200B2 |
Method and system for sample preparation
A method for preparing a sample by utilizing a shearing force in the presence of a size stabilizer to break apart the sample to obtain nucleic acid molecules in a usable size range. Once nucleic acid molecules are obtained, magnetic nanoparticles are used to concentrate and clean the nucleic acid molecules for further testing. |
| US09644192B2 |
Variant Humicola grisea CBH1.1
Disclosed are variants of Humicola grisea CeI7A (CBH1.1), H. jecorina CBH1 variant or S. thermophilium CBH1, nucleic acids encoding the same and methods for producing the same. The variant cellulases have the amino acid sequence of a glycosyl hydrolase of family 7A wherein one or more amino acid residues are substituted. |
| US09644189B2 |
Biocatalysts for ezetimibe synthesis
The present disclosure relates to non-naturally occurring polypeptides useful for preparing Ezetimibe, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and methods of using the polypeptides. |
| US09644186B2 |
Simplified basic media for human pluripotent cell culture
Fully defined media that support pluripotent cell viability, proliferation, cloning, and derivation, as well as methods and compositions including these media are described. Methods for deriving iPS cells from adult individuals under defined, xeno-free conditions are also described. |
| US09644185B2 |
Cell permeable fusion protein for facilitating reprogramming induction and use thereof
A method of preparing a reprogramming induced pluripotent stem cell from a human-derived somatic cell using a fusion protein in which a reprogramming inducing factor and cell permeable peptide (CPP) are fused, and a fusion protein in which a reprogramming inducing factor and a cell permeable peptide are fused are disclosed.According to the present invention, the induced pluripotent stem cell having high efficiency and high stability can be prepared by maximizing the effect of the reprogramming inducing transcription factor beyond the existing viral peptide transporter, in inducing the reprogramming of the somatic cell. |
| US09644182B2 |
Progenitor cell populations, expansion thereof, and growth of non-hematopoietic cell types and tissues therefrom
Described is a method of expanding human progenitor cells by suspension culturing under non-static conditions. The culturing method provides a three-dimensional space for the rapid expansion of desirable progenitors. By this method, a new compartment of multipotential progenitor cells has been identified, which give rise under differentiation conditions to progeny including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, myoblasts, adipocytes, and other non-hematopoietic cell types. Their use in cell and tissue-based engineering is described. |
| US09644178B2 |
Method for culturing avian gonocytes
A sustained culture of isolated avian gonocytes is provided, as well as a method of making and using the same. A chimeric avian containing an isolated gonocyte and a transgenic avian produced using the chimeric avian are also provided. The cell and method may be employed to make, among other things, transgenic avian that produce a heterologous protein, e.g., a therapeutic protein. |
| US09644173B2 |
Biodiesel emulsion for cleaning bituminous coated equipment
Methods of cleaning equipment such as hand tools dirtied by bituminous mixture. A biodiesel emulsion comprising biodiesel, water and emulsifier(s), is applied to the surface of the equipment for a period of time (e.g., at least about 15 minutes) and optionally agitated. The biodiesel emulsion produces cleaning properties comparable to straight biodiesel, at a cost reduction, due to the replacement of biodiesel with water. |
| US09644167B2 |
Lubricating compositions containing a carboxylic functionalised polymer and dispersant
The invention provides an oil of lubricating viscosity, a dispersant and an amine-functionalized additive, wherein the amine-functionalized additive is derived from an amine having at least 3 or 4 aromatic groups. The invention further relates to the use of the lubricating composition in an internal combustion engine. |
| US09644164B2 |
Dispersants derived from hydroxy fatty acid polyesters and polyalkylene glycol dispersants
The disclosed invention relates to a dispersant composition comprising at least one block derived from (i) a polyester of a hydroxy substituted carboxylic acid and at least one block derived from (ii) a polyalkylene glycol terminated by a amine group or a hydroxyl group. The invention also provides lubricating compositions containing the described dispersant as well as methods of making and using the described dispersant, including method of making the dispersant, methods of lubricating an engine with a lubricant containing the described dispersant, and methods of reducing sludge formation in an engine. |
| US09644162B2 |
Fuel additive and fuel composition
A fuel additive includes methyl tert-butyl ether in an amount between 35% and 55% by weight, saturated hydrocarbons in an amount between 25% and 35% by weight and methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl in an amount between 3% and 12% by weight. |
| US09644154B2 |
Optimized method for recycling bio-oils into hydrocarbon fuels
A process for the production of hydrocarbon products from a feed comprising at least one non-pre-treated bio-oil, comprising a first step for hydroreforming in the presence of hydrogen and a hydroreforming catalyst, used alone or as a mixture, to obtain at least one liquid effluent comprising at least one aqueous phase and at least one organic phase, a second step in which at least a portion of the organic phase of the effluent obtained from the first hydroreforming step is recycled to the first hydroreforming step with a recycle ratio equal to the ratio of the mass flow rate of said organic phase to the mass flow rate of the non-pre-treated bio-oil in the range 0.05 to 2 and in which the hydrocarbon effluent obtained from the hydrotreatment and/or hydrocracking step is not recycled to said first hydroreforming step. |
| US09644153B2 |
Vapor pressure enhancer
The present invention relates to a device that installs in-line in the fuel supply line of fuel usage equipment such as a HVAC system or a large commercial natural gas or diesel generator. The device is suitable for use with liquid or gas hydrocarbon fuels such as gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. The device consists of a hollow cylinder with male ends and that contains a tightly packed copper wire core. The copper wire serves as a catalyst to crack the fuel's carbon chain molecules as the fuel flows through the device. The resulting fuel contains more and shorter fuel molecules, has a higher vapor pressure and burns more efficiently in the vehicle's engine. The copper wire is held in place by perforated copper keepers and the keepers are secured within the cylinder by snap rings that engage circumferential grooves provided internally at the ends of the cylinder. |
| US09644146B2 |
Composition for forming liquid crystal layer, liquid crystal display device, and method for producing liquid crystal display device
The present invention provides a composition for forming a liquid crystal layer which enables to achieve takt time reduction and high display quality. The liquid crystal display device according to the present invention includes a liquid crystal material, and a monomer, the monomer being a compound having a structure that generates ketyl radicals when undergoing a hydrogen abstraction reaction caused by exposure to light. |
| US09644141B2 |
Halide-based scintillator nanomaterial
A heterogeneous scintillator material is provided comprising core/shell nanoparticles having a highly hygroscopic or deliquescent halide-based core activated with trivalent Ln3+ or divalent Ln2+ lanthanide ions (Ln=La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu) and a stable non-hygroscopic shell thereon. The heterogeneous nanoparticles can comprise highly hygroscopic lanthanide halide (LaBr3, LuI3) cores protected with stable non-hygroscopic LaF3 shells. The heterogeneous nanoparticles can comprise deliquescent alkaline earth halide (SrI2, BaI2) cores protected with stable non-hygroscopic (SrF2, BaF2) shells. |
| US09644134B2 |
Methods for improving the sweep efficiency of gas injection
A method for recovering oil from a subterranean, hydrocarbon-bearing formation includes at least one injection well and injecting a carrier fluid including a diverting agent into a high permeability pathway within the formation. An activating fluid is injected into the high permeability pathway within the formation, resulting in the precipitation or swelling of the diverting agent. The permeability of the high permeability pathway is decreased within the formation containing the diverting agent to a permeability less than the permeability of the adjacent areas of the formation. A mineralization fluid may be injected that is oversaturated or becomes oversaturated upon interacting with the acid gas that causes mineral precipitation to seal off high-permeability pathways. |
| US09644128B2 |
Carbon nanotube sheet, electronic device, method of manufacturing carbon nanotube sheet, and method of manufacturing electronic device
A carbon nanotube sheet includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes including a first constriction portion in one end side, and a resin portion filled between the plurality of carbon nanotubes. Each of the plurality of carbon nanotubes is bent at the first constriction portion to a lateral direction in the resin portion. |
| US09644127B2 |
Heating medium composition for solar thermal power generation system
A heating medium composition for solar thermal power generation system, the heating medium composition including a silane coupling agent represented by formula (1) shown below and a heating medium containing diphenyl ether: (1) wherein each of OR1, OR2 and OR3 may be the same or different, and represents an alkoxy group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and X is a group selected from a 3-glycidoxypropyl group, a 3-methacryloxypropyl group, a 3-aminopropyl group, an N-phenyl-3-aminopropyl group and an N-2-(aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl group. |
| US09644122B2 |
Modified acrylate adhesive resin and production process of the same, photosensitive resin composition, display substrate, liquid crystal panel
The invention discloses a modified acrylate adhesive resin and a production process of the same, a photosensitive resin composition, a display substrate, and a liquid crystal panel. This resin can improve the compression displacement and elastic recovery rate of the column-like spacers between two substrates of the liquid crystal display. The modified acrylate adhesive resin disclosed by the invention is an acrylate adhesive resin modified by a terminal hydroxyl-containing polybutadiene polymer, and has the following general structural formula: in which formula Z is: wherein y1+y2+y3=1; and n is an integer of 3-30; in which formula R1 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group; R2 is an alkyl group or an aralkyl group; R3 is an aromatic carbon ring; x1 is an integer of 1-300; x2 is an integer of 1-300; x3 is an integer of 1-300; and x4 is an integer of 2-30. The resin of the invention can be used for producing spacers. |
| US09644119B2 |
Material self-assembly method and selective adhesion method based on molecular recognition
The present invention provides a selective adhesion method and a self-assembly method for macroscale materials based on molecular recognition. One or more host bodies formed from a macromolecule having one or more host groups on the side chains, and one or more guest bodies formed from a macromolecule having one or more guest groups on the side chains are vibrated in a solvent to selectively form an assembly. |
| US09644118B2 |
Method of releasably attaching a semiconductor substrate to a carrier
Compositions containing an adhesive material, a release additive and a copper passivation agent are suitable for temporarily bonding two surfaces, such as a semiconductor substrate active side and a carrier substrate. These compositions are useful in the manufacture of electronic devices where a temporary bonding of a component to a substrate having a copper surface is desired. |
| US09644116B2 |
Method and means for protecting a windshield from further damage before repair is possible
The invention could be a windshield repair kit comprising a laminate having a protective barrier film, an adhesive layer, and a peel-able cover, the protective barrier film having at least one side to which the adhesive layer is applied, the adhesive layer being capable of cured in a presence of a UV light; the peel-able cover removably covering one or more exposed portions of the adhesive layer; a covering that removably receives the laminate, the covering reducing the transmission of UV light to the adhesive layer to a level that prevents the UV activation of the adhesive layer while the laminate is within the covering. |
| US09644112B1 |
Articles having electrically-conductive layer or pattern
Articles are designed with a substrate and have either a uniform layer or pattern of electrically-conductive polyaniline on one or both supporting sides of the substrate. The electrically-conductive polyaniline is disposed either within, on top of, or both within and on top of, a uniform or pattern of a crosslinked polymer that is derived from a photocurable composition comprising water-soluble reactive polymer comprising (a) greater than 40 mol % of recurring units comprising sulfonic acid or sulfonate groups, (b) at least 5 mol % of recurring units comprising a pendant group capable of crosslinking via [2+2] photocycloaddition, and optionally (c) at least 1 mol % of recurring units comprising a pendant amide, hydroxyl, lactam, phosphonic acid, phosphonate, carboxylic acid, or carboxylate group, all amounts based on the total recurring units in the water-soluble reactive polymer. |
| US09644110B2 |
Method of producing structure containing phase-separated structure and method of forming top coat film
A method of producing a structure containing a phase-separated structure, including forming a layer containing a block copolymer on a substrate; applying a top coat material to the layer containing the block copolymer to form a top coat film; and subjecting the layer including the block copolymer having the top coat film formed thereon to annealing treatment so as to conduct a phase separation of the layer, the top coat material including an organic solvent component and a polymeric compound containing a structural unit having either a dicarboxylic acid or a salt of a dicarboxylic acid, and the organic solvent component containing water and an alcohol having 3 or more carbon atoms. |
| US09644104B2 |
Photopolymerizable composition, inkjet ink, cartridge, and cured matter
A photopolymerizable composition contains diethylene glycol dimethacrylate, b1, b2, and b3, wherein the content of b2 is less than 2.5% by weight, the content of b3 is less than 3% by weight. b1 is 1-[4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-phenyl]-2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-propane-1-on, b2 is 2-hydroxy-1-{4-[4-(2-hydroxy-2-methyl-propionyl)benzyl]phenyl}-2-methyl-1-propane-1-on, and b3 is oligo{2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-[4-(1-methylvinyl)phenyl]propanone}. |
| US09644103B2 |
Single step creosote/borate wood treatment
Disclosed herein are preservative compositions and methods of using the same for reducing insect and microbial decay in wood. Also disclosed are wooden articles that have been treated with the compositions described herein. |
| US09644099B2 |
Violet laser excitable dyes and their method of use
The present invention provides dye compounds optimally excited at about 400 nm and have a Stokes shift of at least about 80 nm. These dyes find use in detection of analyte in a sample and the preparation of dye-conjugates. |
| US09644095B2 |
Polylactic acid stereocomplex composition, its molded product, a process for its manufacture and its application
The instant invention discloses a polylactic acid stereocomplex composition containing pure stereocomplex crystals and a process for its manufacture. The composition according to this invention comprising (a) 30-70 wt % poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA). (b) 70-30 wt % poly (D-lactic acid) (PDLA) and (c) 0.01-10 wt % nucleating agent, which can be obtained by solution and melt blending. Stereocomplex crystals are preferentially formed according to the invention, and the homocrystals (a crystal form) for the PLLA or PDLA homopolymer can't be observed. The melting temperature of the composition according to the invention is at least 200° C., which is about 30-50° C. higher than the PLLA or PDLA homopolymer. |
| US09644094B2 |
Butyl rubber composition and hose using same
A butyl rubber composition is preferably used for an intermediate rubber layer 3 of a composite flexible hose formed by laminating, from the inner side, an innermost layer 2, intermediate rubber layer 3, fiber reinforcement layer 4, and an external rubber layer 5 in this order. The butyl rubber composition includes halogenated butyl rubber, styrene-isobutylene block copolymer, white filler, white reinforcing agent, brominated alkylphenol-formaldehyde resin, phenol resin, and methylol melamine, and 5 to 45 parts by weight of the styrene-isobutylene block copolymer is added to 100 parts by weight of the halogenated butyl rubber. |
| US09644092B2 |
Heterogeneous in-situ polymer blend
A heterogeneous in-situ polymer blend comprising a continuous phase comprising a polypropylene having a crystallinity of at least 30% and a melting point temperature Tm greater than 130° C., and a heat of fusion ΔHf greater than 65 J/g; and a dispersed phase comprising particles of an elastomeric copolymer dispersed in the continuous phase and having an average particle size of less than 5 micron, the elastomeric copolymer comprising ethylene units and 0.001 to 5 wt % diene by weight of the copolymer, and having a crystallinity of less than 20% and being at least partially cross-linked such that the degree of cross-link is at least 20%. |
| US09644091B2 |
Polymer composition and molded products formed thereof
The present invention provides a polymer composition including a first base polymer (A) containing at least a thermoplastic polymer, a second base polymer (B) containing at least a thermoplastic polymer and not having compatibility with the first base polymer (A), and an additive (C) containing at least a substance not having compatibility with any of the first base polymer (A) and the second base polymer (B), the additive (C) being in the form of liquid or slurry at the lower of a pyrolysis temperature of the first base polymer (A) and a pyrolysis temperature of the second base polymer (B). (A), (B) and (C) are phase-separated from each other, and interfaces each located between two of phases of (A), (B) and (C) contacting each other form three-dimensional continuous parallel interfaces. |
| US09644080B2 |
Light-resistant resin composition, and moulded body thereof
Provided is an additive that increases or improves a light resistance (or whiteness) of a non-fluorinated thermoplastic resin (e.g., a super engineering plastic, such as an aromatic polyamide, a liquid crystal polyester, or an aromatic polyetherketone resin). The additive comprises a fluorine-containing resin and an inorganic white pigment (e.g., titanium oxide). The fluorine-containing resin may be, for example, a fluorine-containing resin comprising a tetrafluoroethylene unit as a monomer unit, in particular, may be a tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (e.g., at least one member selected from the group consisting of a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and another fluorinated olefin, a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and a fluorinated vinyl ether, and a copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, another fluorinated olefin and a fluorinated vinyl ether). |
| US09644078B2 |
Release film and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention relates to a release film comprising a base film containing a synthetic resin; an embossing patterns layer that is formed on the base film and has more than one protrusion containing a curing material of a photo curable resin composition, and a method for producing the same, in which the present invention can provide a release film having an excellent workability and an exclusive and beautiful appearance, since the surface roughness of the release film is low. |
| US09644070B2 |
Cross-linkable and cross-linked polymers, process for the preparation thereof, and the use thereof
The present invention relates to cross-linkable and cross-linked polymers, methods for the production thereof, the use of said cross-linked polymers in electronic devices, especially in OLEDs (OLED=Organic Light Emitting Diode), and to electronic devices, especially organic electroluminescent devices which contain the cross-linked polymers. |
| US09644067B2 |
Distilled epoxy novolac resins
A continuous process comprising: a) separating a starting epoxy novolac resin comprising oligomers having an average functionality of greater than 2.5 and a hydrolyzable chlorine content of less than 450 ppm with a first continuous evaporator apparatus under a vaporization temperature in the range of from 150° C. to 250° C. and an absolute pressure of from 0.05 to 1 mmHg absolute to form a first vapor fraction comprising epoxy novolac resin having more than 95 weight percent of 2-functional components and wherein the mass of the first vapor fraction is in the range of from 5 to 20 weight percent of the starting epoxy novolac resin; and a first bottom fraction comprising epoxy novolac resin having a lower weight percent of 2-functional components in comparison with the weight percent of 2-functional components of the starting epoxy novolac resin; b) recovering the first bottom fraction; and c) condensing from 95 weight percent to 99.95 weight percent of the first vapor fraction at a temperature in the range of from 50° C. to 200° C. to form a first partially condensed vapor fraction product having at least 95 weight percent of 2-functional components and having a total chlorine content of less than 900 ppm and an uncondensed vapor product comprising halogenated impurities, is disclosed. |
| US09644064B2 |
Olefin block copolymer
The present description relates to an olefin block copolymer with excellences in elasticity, heat resistance, and processability. The olefin block copolymer comprises a plurality of blocks or segments, each comprising an ethylene or propylene repeating unit and an α-olefin repeating unit at different mole fractions. The olefin block copolymer comprises polymer chains containing 20 to 100 short-chain branches (SCBs) per 1,000 carbon atoms. A point where a first derivative of the number Y of the SCBs per 1,000 carbon atoms of each polymer chain with respect to the molecular weight X of the polymer chain is 0 exists between the minimum and maximum values of the molecular weight X. |
| US09644059B2 |
Renewable bio-based (meth)acrylated monomers as vinyl ester cross-linkers
Anhydrosugar-based monomers prepared from isosorbide, isomannide, and isoidide and resin systems containing these anhydrosugar-based monomers that are partially to fully bio-based, which may produce materials having properties that meet or exceed the properties of similar petroleum derived vinyl ester resins. |
| US09644057B2 |
Resin composition and method for manufacturing the same
An alkoxysilane containing reactive organic functional groups is prepared as one of raw materials. The reactive organic functional groups are caused to react to bond with each other in advance so as to form an oligomer. The oligomer is swollen in an alkoxysilane of an identical or different kind, so that a sol solution is prepared and the sol solution is cured through a sol-gel reaction. |
| US09644054B2 |
Dense articles formed from tetrafluoroethylene core shell copolymers and methods of making the same
A dense article that includes a dense TFE copolymer film is provided. The dense TFE copolymer film includes a first endotherm between about 50° C. and about 300° C., a second endotherm between about 320° C. and about 350° C., and a third endotherm between about 350° C. and about 400° C. To form the dense article, a core shell TFE copolymer is formed into a pellet, ram extruded into a tape, dried into a dried preform, and then stretched into a dense TFE copolymer film that exhibits improved physical and mechanical properties. The dense TFE copolymer film is produced directly from the dried preform at a deformation temperature less than about 335° C. and without increasing the porosity of the dried preform, as would conventionally be done in expansion processes. The dense TFE copolymer films have a methane permeability less than about 20 μg*micron/cm2/min. The dense articles have a void volume less than about 20%. |
| US09644052B2 |
Functionalized high cis-1,4-polybutadiene prepared using novel functionalizing agents
In general the present invention provides a functionalized polymer prepared by a process comprising the steps of preparing a pseudo-living polymer by polymerizing conjugated monomer with a lanthanide-based catalyst, and reacting the pseudo-living polymer with a functionalizing agent defined by the formula (I) A-R1—Z (I) where R1 is a divalent bond or divalent organic group comprising from 0 to about 20 carbon atoms, A is a substituent that will undergo an addition reaction with a pseudo-living polymer, and Z is a substituent that will react or interact with silica or carbon black reinforcing fillers, with the proviso that A, R1, and Z are substituents that will not protonate a pseudo-living polymer. |
| US09644050B2 |
Particle size distribution control through internal donor in Ziegler-Natta catalyst
The present invention describes a process for controlling particle size of a catalyst composition. The process comprising the steps of contacting an internal donor with an organomagnesium precursor solution to form an intermediate solution and treating the intermediate solution with a transition metal compound to form a catalyst composition, wherein particle size of the catalyst composition is controlled by controlling a contact time of the internal donor with the precursor solution during formation of the intermediate solution. |
| US09644049B2 |
Polymers, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom
A virgin granular polymer comprising polymer particles wherein at least 90% by weight of the granular polymer particles, have an I21 that is within two standard deviations of a mean I21 of the granular polymer, the ratio of the standard deviation of I21 to the mean of the granular polymer is less than 0.2 and the ratio of the standard error of a linear fit to the mean of the granular polymer is less than 0.1, and further wherein the virgin granular polymer has an I21 less than or equal to 70 and/or further wherein at least 90% by weight of the granular polymer particles, have a density that is within two standard deviations of a mean density of the granular polymer, the ratio of the standard deviation of the mean density of the granular polymer to the mean density of the granular polymer is less than 0.002 and the ratio of the standard error of a linear fit to the mean of the density is less than 0.001, and further wherein the virgin granular polymer has an I21 less than or equal to 70 is provided. |
| US09644047B2 |
Metallocenes and catalyst compositions derived therefrom
This invention relates to a novel group 2, 3 or 4 transition metal metallocene catalyst compound having two indenyl ligands with identical substitution including, for example, cyclopropyl groups and substituted phenyl groups at the 2 and 4 positions of the catalyst, respectively, where the substituents are at the 3′ and 5′ positions of the phenyl groups. |
| US09644044B2 |
Process and catalyst for resin hydrogenation
The invention is in the field of catalysis. More specifically, the invention pertains to catalytic hydrogenation processes and catalysts used therein. According to the invention there is provided a process for the hydrogenation of hydrocarbon resins, in particular hydrocarbon resin feeds with a relatively high sulfur content using a cobalt promoted nickel on silica/alumina catalyst, the catalyst per se, and the process of preparing said catalyst. |
| US09644043B2 |
Method for producing hydrogenated petroleum resin
A manufacturing method of a hydrogenated petroleum resin of the invention includes: a thermal polymerization step of thermally polymerizing a cyclopentadiene compound and a vinyl aromatic compound; a hydrogenation reaction step; and a volatile-component removal step, in which the volatile-component removal step is performed using a volatile-component removal device including: a pressuring device configured to pressurize a reaction mixture; a heater configured to heat the reaction mixture pressurized by the pressuring device under pressure; a decompression unit including a decompression space, a pressure of which is reduced and into which the pressurized and heated reaction mixture is flowed; and a path member including a flow path through which the reaction mixture passes and provided in the decompression space so that the reaction mixture flowed in the decompression space of the decompression unit passes through the flow path. |
| US09644038B2 |
Apolipoprotein nanodiscs with telodendrimer
The present invention provides a nanodisc with a membrane scaffold protein. The nanodisc includes a membrane scaffold protein, a telodendrimer and a lipid. The membrane scaffold protein can be apolipoprotein. The telodendrimer has the general formula PEG-L-D-(R)n, wherein D is a dendritic polymer; L is a bond or a linker linked to the focal point group of the dendritic polymer; each PEG is a poly(ethylene glycol) polymer; each R is and end group of the dendritic polymer, or and end group with a covalently bound hydrophobic group, hydrophilic group, amphiphilic compound, or drug; and subscript n is an integer from 2 to 20. Cell free methods of making the nanodiscs are also provided. |
| US09644037B2 |
Antibodies that specifically bind ataxia telangiectasia-mutated and RAD3-related kinase phosphorylated at position 1989 and their use
Monoclonal antibodies that specifically bind ataxia telangiectasia-mutated and RAD3-related kinase phosphorylated at position 1989 (pT1989 ATR), antigen binding fragments, conjugates thereof, and the use of these antibodies, antigen binding fragments and conjugates are disclosed herein. Also disclosed are nucleic acids encoding these antibodies, vectors including these antibodies, and isolated host cells transformed with these nucleic acids and vectors. Methods are also disclosed for using these antibodies, such as to detect pT1989 ATR, or to determine the dose of an agent of use to treat a subject. The antibodies are also of use for identifying ATR inhibitors. |
| US09644029B2 |
Cancer diagnosis and treatment of cancer using anti-ROBO1 antibody
A method for diagnosing cancer comprising detecting ROBO1 protein is disclosed. In addition, a method for treating a disease caused by abnormal cell growth comprising administrating an antibody that binds to ROBO1, as well as a pharmaceutical composition, a cell growth inhibitor and an anticancer agent comprising an antibody that binds to ROBO1 as an active ingredient are disclosed. Further, a method for inducing cell damages in a ROBO1 expressing cell and a method for inhibiting the growth of a ROBO1 expressing cell by bringing a ROBO1 expressing cell into contact with an antibody that binds to ROBO1, are disclosed. Furthermore, a method for monitoring progression of hepatitis by detecting ROBO1 protein is disclosed. |
| US09644024B2 |
Nucleotide sequences, vectors and host cells
Polynucleotides encoding fusion proteins comprising fragments of toxin A and toxin B from Clostridium difficile are described, as well as vectors and host cells containing such polynucleotides. |
| US09644016B2 |
Soluble notch receptor proproteins and methods of use thereof
The present disclosure provides for proprotein and activatable proprotein compositions. A proprotein contains a functional protein (i.e. a full length protein or functional fragment thereof) which is coupled to a peptide mask that inhibits the binding of the functional protein to its target or binding partner. An activatable proprotein contains a functional protein coupled to a peptide mask, and further coupled to an activatable linker, wherein in an non-activated state, the peptide mask inhibits binding of the functional protein to its target or binding partner and in an activated state the peptide mask does not inhibit binding of the functional protein to its target or binding partner. Proproteins can provide for reduced toxicity and adverse side effects that could otherwise result from binding of a functional protein at non-treatment sites if it were not inhibited from binding its binding partner. Proproteins can further provide improved biodistribution characteristics. Proproteins containing a peptide mask can display a longer in vivo or serum half-life than the corresponding functional protein not containing a peptide mask. The disclosure further provides methods of screening for, making, and using these proproteins. |
| US09644013B2 |
Partial region polypeptide of REIC/Dkk-3 protein
A polypeptide capable of strongly inducing and activating dendritic-cell-like cells for treating or prevent cancer by immunotherapy, and DNA encoding the polypeptide. The polypeptide is a polypeptide (a) or (b) consisting of a partial region of the REIC/Dkk-3 protein. |
| US09644012B2 |
Production of proteins and polypeptides
A method of producing a desired non-spidroin protein or polypeptide is comprising the steps of expressing in a suitable host a fusion protein, obtaining a mixture containing the fusion protein, and optionally isolating the fusion protein. The fusion protein is comprising at least one solubility-enhancing moiety which is derived from the N-terminal (NT) fragment of a spider silk protein. It is further comprising at least one moiety which is a desired non-spidroin protein or polypeptide. Each solubility-enhancing moiety is linked directly or indirectly to the desired protein or polypeptide moiety. |
| US09644010B2 |
LY6K epitope peptides for TH1 cells and vaccines containing the same
Isolated LY6K-derived epitope peptides having Th1 cell inducibility are disclosed herein. Such peptides can be recognized by MHC class II molecules and induce Th1 cells. In preferred embodiments, such a peptide of the present invention can be promiscuously bind to MHC class II molecules and induce LY6K-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) in addition to Th1 cells. Such peptides are thus suitable for use in enhancing immune response in a subject, and accordingly find use in cancer immunotherapy, in particular, as cancer vaccines. Also disclosed herein are polynucleotides that encode any of the aforementioned peptides, APCs and Th1 cells induced by such peptides and methods of induction associated therewith. Pharmaceutical compositions that comprise any of the aforementioned components as active ingredients find use in the treatment and/or prevention of cancers or tumors. |
| US09644009B2 |
L-amino acid-producing bacterium and a method for producing an L-amino acid
An L-amino acid is produced by culturing a microorganism of the family Enterobacteriaceae which has the ability to produce an L-amino acid and which has been modified so as to increase the expression of the evgA gene, the gadE gene, and/or the ydeO gene. These genes encode a transcription factor involved in the EvgAS two-component system regulon. The culture takes place in a medium, and the L-amino acid is collected from the medium or cells. |
| US09644007B2 |
Red genetically encoded calcium indicators and methods of use
Protein indicators useful for calcium imaging, in particular, red genetically-encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) disclosed herein rival best-of-class green GECIs in terms of sensitivity for detecting neural activity, and can be monitored in vivo. The presently-disclosed subject matter further includes a method of monitoring cell activity comprising stimulating a cell comprising a red GECI polypeptide; and detecting fluorescence emitted by the cell. |
| US09644005B2 |
Didemnin biosynthetic gene cluster in Tistrella mobilis
A novel Tistrella mobilis strain having Accession Deposit Number NRRL B-50531 is provided. A method of producing a didemnin precursor, didemnin or didemnin derivative by using the Tistrella mobilis strain, and the therapeutic composition comprising at least one didemnin or didemnin derivative produced from the strain or modified strain thereof are also provided. |
| US09644002B2 |
Allosteric modulators of EGFR and constitutively active mutants
The present invention includes a novel class of allosteric modulators that target a protein having a juxtamembrane segment. In another embodiment, the allosteric modulator is a peptide mimetic that is capable of interacting with an α-helix or a coiled coil domain of a protein. In one embodiment, the peptide mimetic binds to at least an α-helix or a coiled coil domain of EGFR and modulates its activity. |
| US09644000B2 |
V1a receptor agonists
Compounds of formula (I), salts thereof, and compositions and uses thereof are described. The compounds are useful as V1a vasopressin agonists, for the treatment of, e.g., complications of cirrhosis, including bacterial peritonitis, HRS2 and refractory ascites. |
| US09643997B2 |
Capture purification processes for proteins expressed in a non-mammalian system
Methods of purifying proteins expressed in non-mammalian expression systems in a non-native soluble form directly from cell lysate are disclosed. Methods of purifying proteins expressed in non-mammalian expression systems in a non-native limited solubility form directly from a refold solution are also disclosed. Resin regeneration methods are also provided. |
| US09643986B2 |
Factor D inhibitors useful for treating inflammatory disorders
Compounds, methods of use, and processes for making inhibitors of complement factor D comprising Formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or composition thereof are provided. The inhibitors described herein target factor D and inhibit or regulate the complement cascade at an early and essential point in the alternative complement pathway, and reduce factor D's ability to modulate the classical and lectin complement pathways. The inhibitors of factor D described herein are capable of reducing the excessive activation of complement, which has been linked to certain autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as ischemia-reperfusion injury and cancer. |
| US09643984B2 |
Method for the preparation of [1,2,4]-triazolo[4,3-a]pyridines
Disclosed herein are methods for preparing [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridines, particularly (R)-6-(1-(8-fluoro-6-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridin-3-yl)ethyl)-3-(2-methoxyethoxy)-1,6-naphthyridin-5(6H)-one, and precursors thereof, such as a method comprising reacting (R)—N-(3-fluoro-5-(1methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) pyridin-2-yl)-2-(3-(2-methoxyethoxy)-5-oxo-1,6-naphthyridin-6(5H)yl) propanehydrazide (“HYDZ”): (HYDZ) under conditions sufficient to form (R)-6-(1-(8-fluoro-6-(1-methyl-IH-pyrazol-4-yl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridin-3-yl)ethyl)-3-(2-methoxyethoxy)-1,6-naphthyridin-5(6H)-one (“A”): (A) |
| US09643983B2 |
Treating diseases mediated by blockade of the epithelial sodium channel with pyrazine-2-carboxamide derivatives
A compound of Formula I in free or salt or solvate form, where R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9, R10 and R11 have the meanings as indicated in the specification, is useful for treating diseases which respond to the blockade of the epithelial sodium channel. Pharmaceutical compositions that contain the compounds and processes for preparing the compounds are also described. |
| US09643982B2 |
Fused tricyclic heterocyclic compounds as HIV integrase inhibitors
The present invention relates to Fused Tricyclic Heterocycle Derivatives of Formula (I), and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R1-R8, A, X and n are as defined herein. The present invention also relates to compositions comprising at least one Fused Tricyclic Heterocycle Derivative, and methods of using the Fused Tricyclic Heterocycle Derivatives for treating or preventing HIV infection in a subject. |
| US09643975B2 |
Synthesis method of 9-allylcamptothecin derivatives
A method for preparing 9-allylcamptothecin derivatives using compound 14 as an essential intermediate. The total yield of the method is high. |
| US09643971B2 |
Breathing control modulating compounds, and methods of using same
The present invention includes pyrimido[5,4-d]pyrimidines that are useful in the prevention and/or treatment of breathing control diseases or disorders in a subject in need thereof. The present invention also includes a method of preventing and/or treating a respiratory disease or disorder in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of at least one compound of the invention. The present invention further includes a method of preventing destabilization or stabilizing breathing rhythm in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of at least one compound of the invention. |
| US09643967B2 |
Pyrrolo[3,2-c]pyridine derivatives as TLR inhibitors
The present invention provides a heterocyclic compound having a TLR7, TLR9, TLR7/8, TLR7/9 or TLR7/8/9 inhibitory action, which is useful as an agent for the prophylaxis or treatment of autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases and the like, in particular, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease and the like. The present invention is a compound represented by the formula (1): wherein each symbol is as described in the specification, or a salt thereof. |
| US09643966B2 |
Compounds for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases
The present invention relates to novel compounds and pharmaceutical compositions thereof which may be useful in the treatment and/or prevention of various conditions. The present invention also provides methods of preparing such compounds and compositions, and methods of using the same. |
| US09643965B2 |
Histone demethylase inhibitors
The present invention relates generally to compositions and methods for treating cancer and neoplastic disease. Provided herein are substituted pyrido[3,4-d]pyrimidin-4-one derivative compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising said compounds. The subject compounds and compositions are useful for inhibition of histone demethylase. Furthermore, the subject compounds and compositions are useful for the treatment of cancer, such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, lung cancer and/or melanoma and the like. |
| US09643962B2 |
Processes for preparing dihydropyrimidine derivatives and intermediates thereof
The present invention refers to processes for preparing a dihydropyrimidine compound having Formula (I), or a tautomer thereof having Formula (Ia), as well as a intermediate thereof. The process of the invention has simple operation, high optical purity of product, high yield and convenient work-up, which is suitable for industrial production. |
| US09643959B2 |
Tubulin polymerization inhibitor and method for synthesizing same
The present invention relates to (E)-ethyl 2-(2-methyl-3-((2-(naphtho[2,1-b]furan-2-carbonyl)hydrazono)methyl)-1H-indol-1-yl)acetate as a novel tubulin polymerization inhibitor and a method for synthesizing the same. The compound of the present invention can inhibit mitosis and induce apoptosis and thus be used as an anticancer agent, by binding to tubulin to inhibit microtube polymerization. According to the synthesis method of the present invention, the reaction is simplified and the efficiency is 60% or higher, leading to a very high yield, thereby providing an effective synthesis method. |
| US09643957B2 |
Heterocyclic compounds having cholesterol 24-hydroxylase activity
An object of the present invention is to provide a compound having a superior CH24H inhibitory action, which is useful as an agent for the prophylaxis or treatment of epilepsy, neurodegenerative disease and the like. The present invention relates to a compound represented by the formula: wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, or a salt thereof. |
| US09643955B2 |
2-pyridyloxy-3-nitrile-4-substituted orexin receptor antagonists
The present invention is directed to 2-pyridyloxy-3-nitrile-4-substituted compounds which are antagonists of orexin receptors. The present invention is also directed to uses of the 2-pyridyloxy-3-nitrile-4-substituted compounds described herein in the potential treatment or prevention of neurological and psychiatric disorders and diseases in which orexin receptors are involved. The present invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds. The present invention is also directed to uses of these pharmaceutical compositions in the prevention or treatment of such diseases in which orexin receptors are involved. |
| US09643950B2 |
Solid forms of {s-3-(4-amino-1-oxo-isoindolin-2-yl)(piperidine-3,4,4,5,5-d5)-2,6-dione}
The invention in one embodiment is directed to solid forms of {S-3-(4-Amino-1-oxo-isoindolin-2-yl)(piperidine-3,4,4,5,5-d5)-2,6-dione}, including an anhydrous crystalline form, two hydrates, and an amorphous form. The invention in one embodiment is directed to methods of preparation of the solid forms. |
| US09643947B2 |
7-membered fused heterocycles and methods of their synthesis
Disclosed are a new method for synthesizing 7-membered fused heterocycles and compounds synthesized by the new method. The method involves a dual activation strategy using an N-heterocyclic carbene catalyst as a first Lewis base and another second Lewis base. Compounds synthesized by the disclosed method may include new benzoxopinone compounds, as well as benzoxepane compounds and benzoazepinone compounds that optionally may be derived from the disclosed benzoxopinone compounds. |
| US09643946B2 |
Tricyclic compound and use thereof
The present invention relates to: a compound selected from the group consisting of a tricyclic compound having the structure of formula I, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, an isomer, a solvate and a precursor thereof; and a use thereof. The compound effectively controls GPR40, and thus, can be effectively used for the prophylaxis or treatment of diseases associated with GPR40, for example, diabetes and many other diseases. |
| US09643940B2 |
Amine salt and crystals thereof
A compound that can be a therapeutic agent for underactive bladder which has low risk of side effects and can be administered orally is provided. Furthermore, a crystal which is advantageous in view of the stability, long-term storage, handleability, easiness of the drug preparation or the like as a drug substance of medicaments is provided. Since a salt of 2-[(2-{(1R,5R)-2-oxo-5-[(1E,4S)-7,8,8-trifluoro-4-hydroxy-4-methyl-1,7-octadien-1-yl]cyclopentyl}ethyl)thio]-1,3-thiazole-4-carboxylic acid or a diastereomeric mixture thereof and 4-piperidinemethanol is a chemically very stable crystal, it can be stored for a long time, and is very useful as a drug substance of medicaments. |
| US09643937B1 |
One-pot process for preparation of ammonium and hydroxyl ammonium derivatives of bis 5,5′-tetrazole-1,1′-dihydroxide
A one-pot process for preparing ammonium and hydroxylammonium salts of bis 5,5′-tetrazole-1,1′-dihydroxide, specifically, diammonium bis 5,5′-tetrazole-1,1′-diolate (ABTOX) and dihydroxylammonium 5,5′-bistetrazole-1,1′-diolate (TKX-50). The process requires the reaction of sodium azide, dichloroglyoxime, HCl in dioxane solution to form bis 5,5′-tetrazole-1,1′-dihydroxide and treating this product with either ammonium chloride to produce ABTOX or hydroxylamine hydrochloride to produce TKX-50. |
| US09643935B2 |
Process for preparing 4,6-BIS (aryloxy) pyrimidine derivatives
Process for preparing 4,6-bis(aryloxy)pyrimidine derivatives. A process is provided for preparing 4,6-bis(aryloxy)pyrimidine derivatives. The process is conducted in water as reaction medium and catalyzed by one or more tertiary-amine catalyst(s). It has been found that a water based reaction substantially free of organic solvents can be carried out providing excellent yields by the addition of one or more tertiary-amine catalysts to the reaction medium. This provides a clean reaction and produces the desired product in high yields. |
| US09643933B2 |
Compounds useful as antibiotic tolerance inhibitors
The disclosure provides compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the compounds useful for treating chronic and acute bacterial infections. Certain of the compounds are compounds and salts of general Formula VIII Certain compounds of this disclosure are MvfR inhibitors. MvfR inhibitors reduce the formation of antibiotic tolerant bacterial strains and are useful for treating Gram-negative bacterial infections and reducing the virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods of treating bacterial infections in a patient, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, are also provided by the disclosure. |
| US09643931B2 |
Process for preparing enzalutamide
The present invention provides a process for the efficient preparation of enzalutamide. |
| US09643927B1 |
Process for the preparation of kinase inhibitors and intermediates thereof
Described are processes for the synthesis of certain compounds, useful for treating diseases, e.g. eye disease, such as glaucoma and ocular hypertension, in a subject. |
| US09643924B2 |
Piperidine derivative, liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal composition is provided containing a compound that is effective in preventing photolysis of the liquid crystal composition, and has high solubility in the liquid crystal composition. A liquid crystal display device including the composition is also provided. The liquid crystal composition contains a compound represented by formula (1), and a liquid crystal display device uses the composition: in which, in formula (1), R1 to R8 are hydrogen or alkyl having 1 to 4 carbons; ring A1 and ring A2 are cyclohexylene, phenylene, or naphthalenediyl; Z1, Z2 and Z3 are a single bond; and a and b are independently 1 or 2, and c is 0, 1 or 2. |
| US09643911B2 |
Treprostinil derivatives and compositions and uses thereof
The present disclosure provides treprostinil derivatives that can act as prodrugs of treprostinil. The treprostinil derivatives can be used to treat any conditions responsive to treatment with treprostinil, including pulmonary hypertension, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension. |
| US09643908B2 |
Fragrance composition
The present invention provides a compound represented by the following general formula (A) wherein 1′-position is optically active; and one of R1 and R2 represents a methyl group and the other represents an ethyl group, or both R1 and R2 represent a methyl group. |
| US09643906B2 |
Systems and methods for manufacture of dimethyl ether (DME) from natural gas and flare gas feedstock
A unique design for a mobile system that reforms flare gas or natural gas, using air without steam, to directly produce dimethyl ether (DME), a diesel substitute, is disclosed. The system first reforms the air-methane mixture at ambient atmospheric pressures, and then compresses the resulting CO-hydrogen-nitrogen gas mixture to up to 600 psi, and feeds it through a combined reactor which reacts the gas mixture directly into dimethyl ether. The nitrogen is returned by the system back to the atmosphere. DME is an excellent diesel fuel, and can be used to displace significantly costlier and dirtier petroleum-based diesel fuel, while solving a critical problem with flaring. For example, the over 120 billion cubic feet per year that is currently flared in North Dakota could be converted into over 3 million tons of DME. |
| US09643903B2 |
Continuous low-temperature process to produce trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
Disclosed is process for the production of (E) 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (HCFO-1233zd(E)) by conducting a continuous reaction without the use of a catalyst. Also disclosed is an integrated system for producing hydrofluoro olefins, particularly 1233zd(E). The manufacturing process includes six major unit operations: (1) a fluorination reaction of HCC-240fa (in continuous or semi-batch mode) using HF with simultaneous removal of by-product HCl and the product 1233zd(E); (2) recycle of unreacted HCC-240fa and HF together with under-fluorinated by-products back to (1); (3) separation and purification of by-product HCl; (4) separation of excess HF back to (1); (5) purification of final product, 1233zd(E); and (6) isomerization of by-product 1233zd(Z) to 1233zd(E) to maximize the process yield. |
| US09643901B2 |
Method and device for generating an alkene
The invention relates to a method for generating an alkene, in which a hydrocarbon-comprising feed material is subjected to a dehydrogenation and a product material comprising at least one alkene is generated. A gas stream coming from an adsorber is cooled by a gas stream which comprises the feed material, and the gas stream coming from the adsorber is cooled by a condensed component of the gas stream coming from the adsorber in a first cooling phase. Feed material is cooled in a second cooling phase by a condensed component of the gas stream coming from the adsorber. The flow of the condensed component of the gas stream coming from the adsorber, fed to the first and/or second cooling phase, is varied depending on the temperature of the gas stream leaving the first cooling phase which comprises the feed material and which is fed to the dehydrogenation. |
| US09643900B2 |
Hyperbranched ethylene-based oils and greases
A process to prepare a relatively inexpensive utility fluid comprises contacting together ethylene and a coordination-insertion catalyst and, optionally, an alpha-olefin, in a continuously-fed backmixed reactor zone under conditions such that a mixture of a hyperbranched oligomer and a branched oligomer is formed. The hyperbranched oligomer has an average of at least 1.5 methine carbons per oligomer molecule, and at least 40 methine carbons per one-thousand total carbons, and at least 40 percent of the methine carbons is derived from the ethylene, and the average number of carbons per molecule is from 25 to 100, and at least 25 percent of the hyperbranched oligomer molecules has a vinyl group and can be separated from the branched oligomer, which has an average number of carbons per molecule of up to 20. The coordination-insertion catalyst is characterized as having an ethylene/octene reactivity ratio up to 20 and a kinetic chain length up to 20 monomer units. |
| US09643898B2 |
Alkanol to alkylene conversion using at least two different catalysts in sequential order
Effect adiabatic, catalytic alkanol (alcohol) dehydration using two or more sequential dehydration catalyst beds each of which has disposed therein a different catalyst and, preferably, eliminating heating and heating apparatus disposed between each sequential pair of dehydration catalyst beds. |
| US09643895B2 |
Nutrient rich compositions
This invention relates to processes and systems for converting fresh food waste into nutrient rich hydrolysates and particulate compositions. The invention also relates to the hydrolysates and compositions useful, for example, as fertilizers, feedstock or other nutrient supplements. |
| US09643890B2 |
Dielectric composition and electronic component
A dielectric composition contains major components that are an A-group containing major components that are at least two selected from the group consisting of Ba, Ca, and Sr and a B-group which contains a major component that is selected from Zr and Ti and which contains at least Zr. The dielectric composition contains an amorphous substance containing the A-group and the B-group and a crystalline substance containing the A-group and the B-group. In the dielectric composition, the inequality 0.5≦α≦1.5 holds, where α is the molar ratio of the A-group to the B-group. |
| US09643888B2 |
Dimensionally stable geopolymer composition and method
A method for making geopolymer cementitious binder compositions for cementitious products such as concrete, precast construction elements and panels, mortar and repair materials, and the like is disclosed. The geopolymer cementitious compositions of some embodiments are made by mixing a synergistic mixture of thermally activated aluminosilicate mineral, calcium aluminate cement, a calcium sulfate and a chemical activator with water. |
| US09643884B2 |
Alkali-doped and alkali-free boroaluminosilicate glass
Alkali-doped boroaluminosilicate glasses are provided. The glasses include the network formers SiO2, B2O3, and Al2O3. The glass may, in some embodiments, have a Young's modulus of less than about 65 GPa and/or a coefficient of thermal expansion of less than about 40×10−7/° C. The glass may be used as a cover glass for electronic devices, a color filter substrate, a thin film transistor substrate, or an outer clad layer for a glass laminate. |
| US09643882B2 |
Borosilicate glass having improved hydrolytic resistance for preferred use in the pharmaceutical sector
Borosilicate glasses, preferably for use in the pharmaceutical sector, are provided. The borosilicate glasses are outstandingly suitable for the use as pharmaceutical primary packaging, such as phials or ampoules, since the aqueous or water-containing medicaments kept in the containers do not attack the glass significantly, and so the glass releases no, or only few, ions. The borosilicate glasses have the following composition in % by weight or consist thereof: SiO271-77; B2O39-12; Al2O35.5-8; Na2O6-8; K2O0.1-0.9; Li2O0-0.3; CaO0-1.5; BaO0-1; F0-0.3; Cl-0-0.3; and MgO + CaO + BaO + SrO 0-2. |
| US09643880B2 |
Optical glass and use thereof
An optical glass that is oxide glass, containing Si4+, B3+, La3+, Ti4+, Nb5+, and Zr4+; containing, denoted as cation %, Si4+ and B3+ of 5 to 55% in total, La3+ of 10 to 50%, with a total content of La3+, Gd3+, Y3+ and Yb3+≦70%, and Ti4+, Nb5+, Ta5+ and W6+ of 22 to 55% in total, with a content of Ti4+≦22%, wherein [Si4+/(Si4++B3+)]≦0.40; the total content of La3+, Gd3+, Y3+, Yb3+, Zr4+, Ti4+, Nb5+, Ta5+, W6+ and Bi3+≧65%; [Y3+/(La3++Gd3++Y3++Yb3+)]≦0.12; [Ba2+/(La3++Gd3++Y3++Yb3+)]≦0.40; [(Zr4++Ti4++Nb5++Ta5++W6+)/Zr4+]≧2; (Ti4+/B3+)≧0.85; and an Abbé number νd is in a range from 23 to 35, and a refractive index nd satisfies nd≧2.205−(0.0062×νd). |
| US09643877B2 |
Thermal plasma treatment method
Presented is a method for the surface treatment of objects utilizing thermal plasma, including cascade plasma, and a wrap, such as tape or foil, where the tape or foil attracts the specific part of the plasma which produces a heat necessary to produce the desired treatment. The specific surface treatment may include, but is not limited to, hard-facing, brazing, welding, other types of joining operations, glass bending or forming, glass texturing, coating and surface reconditioning. |
| US09643870B2 |
Panel-cooled submerged combustion melter geometry and methods of making molten glass
A melter apparatus includes a floor, a ceiling, and a substantially vertical wall connecting the floor and ceiling at a perimeter of the floor and ceiling, a melting zone being defined by the floor, ceiling and wall, the melting zone having a feed inlet and a molten glass outlet positioned at opposing ends of the melting zone. The melting zone includes an expanding zone beginning at the inlet and extending to an intermediate location relative to the opposing ends, and a narrowing zone extending from the intermediate location to the outlet. One or more burners, at least some of which are positioned to direct combustion products into the melting zone under a level of molten glass in the zone, are also provided. |
| US09643867B2 |
Waste processing system with anaerobic mechanism and method of operation thereof
A waste processing system includes: an input module for converting input organic waste into processed input waste; a digester module, coupled to the input module, for generating biogas and digester effluent from the processed input waste, including: a digester tank; baffles affixed within the digester tank; a digester process solution in the digester tank including, hydrolytic bacteria, acidogenic bacteria, acetogenic bacteria, methanogenic bacteria, or a combination thereof, for converting the processed input waste into the biogas and the digester effluent; and an output module, coupled to the digester module, for collecting the biogas and digester effluent after a residence period. |
| US09643866B2 |
Method for treating water by using salt desorption process of gas hydrate
A method for treating water using a salt desorption process of gas hydrates according to the present invention includes: (a) introducing water containing impurities and a plurality of guest gases into a reactor; (b) forming gas hydrates by causing the water and the plurality of guest gases to react under a first condition; and (c) dissociating a gas hydrate of one guest gas from among the plurality of guest gases by changing the first condition to a second condition, wherein the first condition refers to temperature and pressure conditions under which all of the plurality of guest gases form gas hydrates and the second condition refers to temperature and pressure conditions under which the gas hydrate of the one guest gas from the mixed gas hydrates is dissociated. |
| US09643857B2 |
Methods of preparing high purity aluminum hydroxide and high purity aluminum oxide
This application discloses methods and processes for preparation of high purity aluminum hydroxide and high purity aluminum oxide. The method of preparing high purity aluminum hydroxide involves reacting aluminum with water in the presence of one or more catalysts and one or more complexing agents that can react with non-aluminum metal impurities to form soluble complexes for effective removal through rinsing. |
| US09643847B2 |
Method for growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on diamond substrates
Method of growing carbon nanotubes which are substantially vertically aligned on a diamond-based substrate via a chemical vapor deposition system utilizing an iron-based catalyst is disclosed. |
| US09643845B2 |
Nitrous oxide regenerable room temperature purifier and method
A nitrous oxide room temperature purification method, apparatus and system utilizing at least partially oxidized nickel. In an embodiment, a room temperature regenerable N2O purifier includes a vessel having an inlet and outlet, an active portion being at least partially filled with a purification material comprising nickel oxide and optional elemental nickel, wherein the weight ratio between the nickel oxide and the optional elemental nickel is equal or higher than 3 and the surface area of the nickel oxide and the optional elemental nickel is equal or higher than 50 m2/g. |
| US09643844B2 |
Low temperature atomic layer deposition of films comprising SiCN or SiCON
Provided are methods for the deposition of films comprising SiCN and SiCON. Certain methods involve exposing a substrate surface to a first and second precursor, the first precursor having a formula (XyH3-ySi)zCH4-z, (XyH3-ySi)(CH2)(SiXpH2-p)(CH2)(SiXyH3-y), or (XyH3-ySi)(CH2)n(SiXyH3-y), wherein X is a halogen, y has a value of between 1 and 3, and z has a value of between 1 and 3, p has a value of between 0 and 2, and n has a value between 2 and 5, and the second precursor comprising a reducing amine. Certain methods also comprise exposure of the substrate surface to an oxygen source to provide a film comprising SiCON. |
| US09643838B1 |
Semiconductor device and package and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor device includes a substrate, an interconnection layer, an outgassing layer, and a patterned outgassing barrier layer. The interconnection layer is over the substrate. The outgassing layer is over the interconnection layer. The patterned outgassing barrier layer is over the outgassing layer. The patterned outgassing barrier layer includes a plurality of barrier structures and a plurality of openings. The plurality of openings expose a portion of an upmost surface of the outgassing layer, and a bottommost surface of the patterned outgassing barrier layer is substantially coplanar with the upmost surface of the outgassing layer. |
| US09643834B2 |
System and method for compliance management of fluids in and about drilling sites
A system and method are provided for automated intake and discharge of fluids to and from specified inclusion zones at a drilling site and related sites. A surface map is annotated with shapes designating at least inclusion zones for managed control of permitted intake and discharge of fluids to and from permitted zones. For specified water sources, the inclusion zone is a loading zone associated with specified conditions and another inclusion zone is an unloading zone also having specified conditions. A control system in a vehicle uses the annotated map and GPS to assist the operator of the vehicle avoid restricted intake from and discharge to restricted zones and limit volumes and rates based on monitored parameters. Records are maintained to confirm the fluid, fluid location and volumes. |
| US09643831B1 |
Ceramic water cooler
The ceramic water cooler includes a conventional refrigeration unit and an internal reservoir for storing water. The internal reservoir can be formed from a ceramic material. Air passes through the porous walls of the internal reservoir to make the water stored therein alkaline. The refrigeration unit cools the water. The cooler includes a float valve for ensuring the reservoir remains full. A tap is provided for dispensing the cool alkaline water held in the reservoir. |
| US09643830B2 |
Keg closure with venting mechanism
A closure (10) for use with a beverage keg (20) is disclosed. The closure (10) comprises an inlet, a barrier (1) and a housing (2) that defines a venting hole (11). The barrier (1) seals the venting hole (11). The closure (10) comprises an unvented configuration in which a keg to which the closure is fitted can be pressurized. The closure (10) also comprises a vented configuration in which the barrier (1) is unsealed from the venting hole (11) to permit depressurization of the keg (20). |
| US09643825B2 |
Optical system for detecting the state of winding of a cable on a winch
A system allowing automatic detection of the end of winding of a cable on a winch comprises an optical detector which emits, in the direction of the cable, a light beam which illuminates a given zone through which the cable travels in the course of its winding. The detector is associated with a specific marking, strongly reflecting, positioned on a section of the cable close to its end, such that, when this section enters into the zone illuminated by the detector, it reflects the beam in the direction of the detector which detects this reflected beam and which then signals that the cable is almost at the end of winding. The detector, placed in a fixed position at a given distance from the cable, is also associated with a light waveguide interposed between the cable and the optical detector. |
| US09643823B2 |
Sport utility vehicle mobile hard top removal, store, and install device
A device designed for the removal, storage, and installation of convertible hardtops from sport utility vehicles. The device is floor level and mounted on casters for portability. The device utilizes a platform and ratcheted gear apparatus to assist provide leverage and assist a single operator to remove or install a convertible hardtop form an SUV. The device also utilizes a tilting assembly to allow the operator to reduce the footprint of the device with the hardtop loaded, making it simpler to maneuver and store. |
| US09643822B2 |
Pallet of a moving walkway or step for an escalator
The invention relates to a step (4) of an escalator or a plate (14) of a moving walkway. This comprises a tread element (40) and a support body (30) with a base (31), wherein the tread element (40) comprises at least two sub-elements (41, 42, 43) and each sub-element (41, 42, 43) is bounded in the areal extent thereof by two parallel end sides (45, 46) extending in the intended direction (X) of movement of the step (4, 304) or plate (14, 114) and two edge sides (47, 48, 147, 148) arranged orthogonally to the end sides (45, 46). The at least two sub-elements (41, 42, 43) are arranged in a predetermined sequence on the base (31) of the support body (30). Sub-elements (41, 42, 43) arranged adjacent to one another respectively bear against one another by one of the end sides (45, 46) thereof, wherein a sub-element (41, 42) previously arranged on the base (31) is secured to the support body (30) by the respective sub-element (42, 43) subsequently arranged on the base (31). |
| US09643821B2 |
Method for positioning counter entraining means of a shaft door of a lift installation
A method for positioning counter entraining means which are provided on a shaft door of a lift installation, with respect to entraining means provided on a lift cage door of a lift cage of the lift installation, wherein the shaft door and the lift cage door can be coupled to each other by the entraining means acting upon the counter entraining means. The method comprises moving the lift cage into a floor position, opening the lift cage door, fixing the shaft door in the closed state, providing the counter entraining means, which are provided on the shaft door, with clearance with respect to the shaft doors, closing the lift cage door, actuating the entraining means, which are formed on the lift cage door, to act upon the counter entraining means, wherein the counter entraining means are displaced into an optimized position with respect to the entraining means on the shaft door, ending the action of the entraining means on the counter entraining means, re-opening the lift cage door while keeping the shaft door closed, and securing the counter entraining means to the shaft door in the optimized position set by the action of the entraining means. |
| US09643819B2 |
Asymmetric and steered sheaves for twisted multi-belt elevator systems
An elevator system includes an elevator car located in a hoistway. One or more belts are operably connected to the elevator car to drive and/or support the elevator car along the hoistway. The one or more belts are routed over one or more sheaves. The one or more sheaves include an outer surface rotatable about a central axis and a flange located at at least one lateral end of the sheave. The sheave further includes a tracking compensator to limit lateral motion of the belt along the outer surface to prevent the belt from contacting the flange. |
| US09643818B2 |
Double-decker elevator with adjustable inter-car spacing
An elevator installation has an elevator car carrier that can be displaced in a travel space, a first elevator car arranged on the carrier in an adjustable manner, and a second elevator car arranged on the carrier. A drive unit on the carrier drives a traction device to adjust the first elevator car relative to the carrier. The traction device forms a closed loop and is guided over a drive roller and at least one guide roller, which rollers are arranged on the carrier. The guide roller is displaceable on the carrier to set tensioning of the traction device. |
| US09643817B2 |
Elevator arrangement
The object of the invention is an elevator arrangement, which comprises at least an elevator car configured to move up and down in an elevator hoistway and at least two compensating weights, which are for their part connected to support the elevator car by the aid of their own support means, such as by the aid of ropes or belts and also e.g. diverting pulleys, and a hoisting machine provided with at least one traction sheave or corresponding, and at least one traction means such as a rope or belt, which is configured to transmit the rotational movement of the traction sheave into movement of the elevator car and of the compensating weights. Each compensating weight is connected by the aid of a traction means to the same hoisting machine. |
| US09643811B2 |
Loop folding system for providing C, Z or half-fold sheets
A system for selectively C, Z or half-folding sheet(s) of paper of variable format, comprising: a pocket-like channel (10) with a stop element (12) for defining a paper sheet position and positioning the sheet(s) according to a location of a recipient's address A and a type of fold required; two folding rollers (2, 4) arranged diametrically opposite to each other and forming a folding/nipping area (6); an inducing element (8) movable towards and away from the folding/nipping area for defining a fold line position; and a curved guiding path (14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26) which substantially covers at least one of the two folding rollers for receiving and guiding the sheet(s) completely around one or the other of the two folding rollers without changing their rotational direction during the folding cycle. |
| US09643810B2 |
Stacker for storing documents
The stacker comprises a pair of protrusions 6 prominent from side walls 5 in a spaced relation to each other to form a second opening 7 between protrusions 6, an interim chamber 13 defined by partitions 3 and protrusions 6, and a pair of inner surfaces 8 formed on protrusions 6 prominent into interim chamber 13 from side walls 5 more inward than side surfaces of a holding chamber 12. Largely deviated one of side edges of document D comes into contact to inner surface 8 in interim chamber 13 to push document D inward by projection of inner surface 8 to store document D in a vault 30 with the tolerable deviation upon stowage of a subsequent document D. |
| US09643809B2 |
Guide wheel arrangement
The invention relates to a guide wheel arrangement for guiding two-dimensional material webs, in particular for guiding material webs or material sheets. The guide wheel arrangement comprises a guide wheel comprising an inner central hub section and an outer guide ring, which is connected to the inner hub section in a rotationally fixed manner for guiding the two-dimensional material elements, as well as an insert bushing which is to be arranged on a shaft and is concentrically inserted into the inner hub section, wherein the insert bushing is connected to the guide wheel in a rotationally fixed manner. |
| US09643804B2 |
Feed apparatus and image recording apparatus
There is provided a feed apparatus including: a support unit supporting a sheet; a feed roller; a first arm; a recess portion; a second arm; a biasing member; an operation lever; and an engagement portion. The engagement portion is configured to be separated from the second arm at the first position in a case that the feed roller abuts against the support surface. The engagement portion is configured to be engaged with the second arm in a case that the first arm swings in a direction in which the feed roller is separated from the support surface. The second arm is configured to swing from the first position to the second position in conjunction with swing of the first arm in a direction in which the feed roller is further away from the support surface. |
| US09643803B2 |
Image forming device capable of stably feeding recording sheet
An image forming device includes: a tray; an image forming unit; a drive source; a feeding roller; a support portion; a support shaft; and a drive shaft. The tray is configured to support a recording sheet. The image forming unit is configured to form an image on the recording sheet. The drive source is configured to generate a driving force. The feeding roller is configured to rotate upon receipt of the driving force to feed the recording sheet supported by the tray toward the image forming unit. The support portion is configured to rotatably support the feeding roller. The support shaft is disposed above the tray and configured to pivotally movably support the support portion. The drive shaft is independent of the support shaft and configured to rotate upon receipt of the driving force from the drive source. |
| US09643796B2 |
Device and method of arraying articles by using robot, and article transfer system
An article arraying device including a robot; a vision sensor for obtaining position information of each of randomly arranged articles; an arrangement pattern generating section for generating an arrangement pattern by using the position information, the arrangement pattern including pattern elements in a regular arrangement, in such a manner that any one of the pattern elements coincides with a position of a reference article in the randomly arranged articles; a picking motion generating section for generating a picking motion by using the position information, the robot picking up by the picking motion an article other than the reference article; an arraying motion generating section for generating an arraying motion, the robot placing by the arraying motion the picked-up article in a position juxtaposed to the reference article in accordance with the arrangement pattern; and a robot controlling section for controlling the picking motion and the arraying motion. |
| US09643790B2 |
Manufacturing work machine
A board working device includes an adjustment mechanism including a plurality of main legs provided on a bottom portion of a base, the main legs being capable of adjusting a position of the base in vertical directions, and bolt heads for operating the main legs, a mounting head which rotates the bolt heads and adjusts the position of the base in the vertical directions, and a moving device which moves a mounting head to an arbitrary position on the base, in which the bolt heads are arranged within a movement range of the mounting head according to the moving device. Accordingly, it is possible to automatically perform leveling of the base using the mounting head, and it is possible to appropriately and swiftly perform the leveling of the base regardless of proficiency of an individual worker. |
| US09643789B2 |
Control system for material handling conveyor vehicle
Control solutions for a mobile conveyor vehicle are provided. The vehicle includes a pair of movable belt conveyor systems for conveying bulk material to an elevated location. One of the conveyors may be rotated via turntable while the other is rotated by four-wheel steering motion of the vehicle. The control system may be configured to: receive user input indicative of desired infeed location of the infeed end and a desired output location of the output end; determine a desired control solution for disposing the infeed end at the desired infeed location and disposing the output end at the desired output location; and cooperatively operate the first powered actuator system, the second powered actuator system and the powered drive system according to the desired control solution. |
| US09643787B1 |
Auger transfer conveyor
An auger transfer conveyor apparatus for granular material has a conveyor body defined by side walls, a front wall, and a floor comprising a substantially horizontally oriented front floor section and an upward and rearward sloping rear floor section. A plurality of substantially parallel auger assemblies are provided, each with a substantially horizontal auger section extending along the front floor section, an inclined auger section extending along the sloping rear floor section to a transfer discharge at a top edge of the rear floor section, and a flexible joint connecting the horizontal auger section to the inclined auger section. The auger assemblies are open such that during operation granular material moves from the front wall toward the transfer discharge above and between the auger assemblies, and an auger drive is operative to rotate the auger assemblies. |
| US09643786B1 |
Food-grade telescoping belt tightener
A telescoping belt tightener for conveyors includes an elongated outer body and a slider tube inserted in one end, with the slider tube able to slide into and out of the outer body to varying lengths. An adjuster at an opposing end can be turned to extend or retract the slider tube from the outer body. A bearing collar, with a bearing cavity that fits a spherical bearing, is attached to the slider tube. A collar shield snugly fits with the bearing collar to keep contaminants from entering the bearing cavity. One or both ends of the outer body include a stopper for keeping contaminants from entering the outer body. The outer body is round and without standing surfaces on which food and debris could accumulate. The outer body and adjuster are unitary parts without crevices in which contaminants can collect. The belt tightener is well-suited for food-grade applications. |
| US09643783B2 |
Rail-led conveying means and conveying installation having such conveying means
A rail-led conveying device includes a conveying vehicle with at least three runner rollers for rolling conveying along a rail guide. Rotation planes of the at least three runner rollers are arranged at an angle of greater than 0° and smaller than 180° relative to one another. The associated conveying installation includes a plurality of such conveying devices as well as a corresponding rail guidance with a rail body. The rail body includes a rail body longitudinal section with three runner surfaces that are arranged on the outer periphery of the rail body and are for the at least three runner rollers of the conveying device. The surface normals of the three runner surfaces are arranged at an angle to one another of greater than 0° and smaller than 180°. |
| US09643778B2 |
Automated warehouse
An automatic warehouse includes a storage shelf and a carriage device that carries a package. The carriage device includes a horizontal guide member located inside of the storage shelf and extending in a lateral direction, a prop inside of the storage shelf and supporting the horizontal guide member, a cart that travels along the horizontal guide member, a vertical guide member connected to the cart at an intermediate position, and a lift stage guided by the vertical guide member. The automatic warehouse further includes a transfer device attached to the lift stage. |
| US09643774B2 |
Proppant storage vessel and assembly thereof
A proppant storage vessel has a container having a first end wall, a second end wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, a top wall and a bottom wall. The first and second end walls extend between opposite ends of the first and second side walls. The walls define an interior volume of the container. The walls have a rigidity suitable for retaining no less than 30,000 pounds of proppant therein. A top hatch is formed centrally on the top wall and is movable between an open position and a closed position. A bottom hatch is formed generally centrally on the bottom wall of the container and is movable between an open position and a closed position. |
| US09643767B2 |
Compartmentalized protective case for portable handheld electronic devices
A compartmentalized protective case houses a portable electronic device and personal care items that are organized and held securely therewithin. The compartmentalized protective case has a major compartment for receiving and housing an electronic device such as a smart phone, cellular phone, music player, or other digital media device. At least one cell compartment constructed within the case receives and houses personal care items removably integrated therein. Personal care items include a plurality of interchangeable replacement cells containing beauty items, cosmetics, hygienic items, oral care products such as floss or breath strips, medications, vitamins, breathe fresheners and/or health care products. A second cell compartment is preferably provided as a removable pouch or restraining system for holding identification cards, currency, visa or bank cards, and/or keys. |
| US09643765B2 |
Buckle retraction device
Car seat harness buckle retract system which by encircling the harness buckle that includes a cord lock with a length of elastic cord, where both ends pass through the cord lock to present a loop to encircle the harness buckle at the base wherein the loop is adjusted to secure the harness buckle. The other end is attached to the material or the like near the harness adjust opening of the car seat. This is then adjusted by releasing and adjusting the cord lock device to prevent the harness buckle from resting in the bottom of car seat. |
| US09643764B1 |
Cable tie
A cable tie has a buckle member, an engaging band, and an insertion band. The buckle member has an engaging hole and an engaging block. The engaging block is resilient, is formed in the buckle member, and extends into the engaging hole. The engaging band is selectively inserted into the engaging hole and has two side faces and a thickness. At least one of the side faces has a channel having multiple unidirectional teeth. The insertion band is integrally formed on and extends from the buckle member and has a thickness. The insertion band is stacked with the engaging band when the insertion band and the engaging band are inserted into the engaging hole in the buckle member. The sum of the thicknesses of the insertion band and the engaging band is substantially equal to the height of the engaging hole. |
| US09643761B1 |
Child-resistant containers
A child-resistant container includes a lid and a base. The lid includes a peripheral flange that defines a lifting tab. The base includes an upper peripheral rim. A skirt extends downwardly from the upper peripheral rim to a lower edge thereof. A bend line extends between two adjacent sides of the base to define a corner portion of the base that accommodates the lifting tab when the container is closed forming a child-resistant opening mechanism. The bend line facilitates bending of the corner portion of the base to gain access to the lifting tab. |
| US09643753B2 |
Adjustable base device, system and method of use
The invention herein relates to a container device and system with an adjustable base and a method of adjusting said base within said container. The device is comprised of a hollow container, a platform and a rotating key with slit opening. The key is nested between the container and the platform wherein the slit opening of the key is sleeved over protrusions extending from the platform. The protrusions interconnect with the container by matching threaded linings along their contacting surfaces. Rotation of the key causing the platform to move in the same direction along its threaded connection with the container, and therefore lateral movement along the length of the container by travel along said threaded lining. |
| US09643749B2 |
Carton with handle features
A carton for containing at least one article is described herein. The carton includes a plurality of side panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton, a handle for grasping and carrying the carton formed in at least two side panels of the plurality of side panels, and a protective feature for providing access to grasp the handle. The protective feature includes at least one protective panel arranged in the interior of the carton relative to the handle and the at least two side panels. |
| US09643747B2 |
Display packaging
A display packaging for receiving and containing a spherical object includes a series of interconnected triangular panels with alternating orientations looped in a circular fashion. Base edges of the triangular panels form pentagonal edges to define two opposing pentagonal voids that expose a substantial portion of two sides of a contained spherical object to allow a consumer to visually inspect and/or feel the spherical object. The display packaging may be assembled from a blank that includes a first region, middle region, and second region. The middle region includes the series of interconnected triangular panels. The first region and second region each includes a series of interconnected and alternating base triangular portions and vertex triangular panels. The display packaging may be assembled from the blank by folding and overlaying first and second regions on the middle region to form a folded blank and looping the folded blank. |
| US09643745B2 |
Device for forming multi-row packing units
An apparatus for producing container packs from containers in a container stream or a plurality of transport lines includes guide elements, entraining elements, applicator elements, and a compartmentalizing and/or compressing unit configured for compartmentalizing and compressing a predetermined number of containers that are combined to form a container pack. The applicator elements apply an adhesive agent by spraying or sprinkling such that a bottle in the pack has adhesive a contact-or-touching surface thereof. The linear transporter transports containers that are to form a subsequent pack from an inlet to an outlet. |
| US09643739B2 |
Methods and apparatus for performing propulsion operations using electric propulsion systems
Methods and apparatus to methods and apparatus for performing propulsion operations using electric propulsion system are disclosed. An example method includes deploying a space vehicle including an electric propulsion system; and using the electric propulsion system for attitude control and orbit control, no other propulsion system provided to enable the attitude control and the orbit control. |
| US09643738B2 |
Loading of aircraft landing gear
A method of loading a landing gear in an aircraft comprises accessing an ideal path specifying movement of the landing gear from a starting location to an expected mounting location on the aircraft; determining a difference between the expected mounting location and an actual mounting location on the aircraft; modifying the ideal path to move the expected mounting location to the actual mounting location; and moving the landing gear along the modified path. |
| US09643737B2 |
Sound and scent search engine for mechanics
Method, apparatus, and computer program product for providing a cause of a scent and/or sound detected during operation of a vehicle are provided. In the event a vehicle operator hears a sound or smells a scent while operating a vehicle, a microphone can sample the sound and/or an electronic nose can sample the scent. A sound and/or scent profile is generated from the sampled sound and/or sampled scent. The generated sound and/or scent profile are compared to known sound and/or scent profiles stored in a data structure. In the event the generated sound and/or scent profile matches a known sound and/or scent profile, the data structure is checked for correspondences between the matched, known sound and/or scent profile and a cause of the sound and/or scent. In the event a correspondence to a cause exists, then the cause is output to a user to identify the cause of the sound and/or scent. |
| US09643734B2 |
Electromagnetic energy surface protection
An electromagnetic energy protection system and method disclosed herein that includes a plurality of conductive sheets ohmically connected by conductive interconnects. The conductive interconnects can be metal formed by a metal deposition process. The metal deposition process can include a plasma deposition process. The conductive interconnects can help prevent the formation of surface deformities such as bumps that may be caused when connecting, either physically or electrically, adjacent conductive sheets. |
| US09643729B2 |
Energy cell regenerative system for electrically powered aircraft
A system for providing regenerative power for an aircraft to sustain flight includes multiple energy cells disposed within the aircraft, the energy cells being configured to supply power to a propulsion motor and electronics of the aircraft, a fan generator harnessing propeller blast created by an aircraft propeller and converting kinetic energy of the propeller blast into electrical energy, a charger receiving the electrical energy generated by the fan generator and using the electrical energy to recharge one or more of the energy cells, and a power transfer switch selectively connecting one of the energy cells to the propulsion motor and electronics of the aircraft, such that the energy cells are rotated one at a time to power the propulsion motor and electronics. During recharging, the one or more of the energy cells are disconnected by the power transfer switch. |
| US09643725B2 |
Safety device for prevention of accidental airbag depolyment
A safety device has a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion defines a cavity for receiving a seat belt buckle assembly and has at least one rear wall portion extending between opposing sidewalls that partially define the cavity. The rear wall portion forms a slot area to permit a strap attached to the seat belt buckle assembly to extend from the cavity when the seat belt buckle assembly is positioned in the cavity. The rear wall portion is configured to prevent the seat belt buckle assembly from moving laterally out of the cavity. The upper portion is hingedly coupled to the lower portion such that the upper portion completely covers the cavity of the lower portion when the upper portion is rotated into engagement with the lower portion. |
| US09643722B1 |
Drone device security system
A fact checking system utilizes social networking information and analyzes and determines the factual accuracy of information and/or characterizes the information by comparing the information with source information. The social networking fact checking system automatically monitors information, processes the information, fact checks the information and/or provides a status of the information, including automatically modifying a web page to include the fact check results. The fact checking system is able to be implemented utilizing a drone device. |
| US09643721B2 |
Wind energy conversion systems, devices, and methods
Airborne devices for generating power in a crosswind power generating phase, including a body and at least one non-planar wing. A control system directs the airborne device to follow a predetermined flight path of increasing altitude during the crosswind power generating phase. Wind energy conversion systems and methods including an airborne device, a tether, a generator, and a control system that directs the airborne device to follow a predetermined flight path including a crosswind power generating phase. |
| US09643720B2 |
Vertical-takeoff aircraft
A vertical-takeoff aircraft with a wing. A first drive unit and a second drive unit are swivellably mounted on the wing. The first drive unit and the second drive unit are arranged on the wing at a distance from a wing-end of the wing. A first distance between the first drive unit and a longitudinal axis of the aircraft is approximately equal to a second distance between the second drive unit and the longitudinal axis of the aircraft. The first drive unit and the second drive unit are swivellable into a horizontal flying position and a vertical flying position. In the horizontal flying position the first drive unit is arranged above a wing surface and the second drive unit below the wing surface on the wing. In the vertical flying position the first drive unit and the second drive unit are arranged in an approximately horizontal plane. The first drive unit and the second drive unit each have a swivel arm, wherein the swivel arms are swivellably mounted on the wing. |
| US09643719B2 |
Electro-rheological elastomeric, variable-stiffness flight control device
According to one embodiment, a flight control device includes a grip, a stick associated with the grip, and a gimbal. The stick defines a first axis. The gimbal includes a first platform, a second platform, a first electro- rheological elastomeric bearing, and a second electro-rheological elastomeric bearing. The first platform is coupled to the stick and configured to rotate on a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The second platform is in mechanical communication with the first platform and configured to rotate on a third axis that is perpendicular to the second axis. The first electro-rheological elastomeric bearing defines the second axis, and the second electro-rheological elastomeric bearing defines the third axis. The first and second electro-rheological elastomeric bearing being configured to each have a variable stiffness. |
| US09643717B2 |
System and a method for controlling pitching stabilizer means of an aircraft
A control system (20) for controlling pitching stabilizer means of an aircraft, said system (20) being provided with at least one outlet shaft (21) and with a first actuator (31) and a second actuator (36). The first and second actuators (31 and 36) are different, and the first actuator (31) is a slow actuator having a first driving portion that moves at a first speed, the second actuator (36) being a fast actuator having a second driving portion that moves at a second speed faster than the first speed, said control system (20) comprising a control device (50) connected to the first actuator (31) and to the second actuator (36) in order to cause said outlet shaft (21) to be driven either by the first driving portion (32) and/or by the second driving portion (37). |
| US09643712B1 |
Thermal protection system and method
A system and method for restricting thermal transfer between an ambient space and a substructure include providing an inner mold line side (IML) surface to the substructure. A plurality of clevises extends upward from the IML surface. An outer mold line side (OML) surface is interposed between the ambient space and the IML surface. The OML surface includes at least one horizontally oriented wing and a plurality of horizontally oriented shoulders. The wing selectively engages at least two of the shoulders. A plurality of lugs extends downward from the OML surface. At least one aperture extends longitudinally through the OML surface to selectively permit fluid communication between the ambient space and the IML surface. A plug selectively substantially fills the aperture and is selectively secured to the IML surface. A fastener, configured to selectively secure the OML surface to the IML surface, extends horizontally through the clevises and the lugs. |
| US09643710B2 |
Automated system for joining portions of a chassis and method thereof
An automated system for joining at least two portions of a chassis includes an actuation device (3) adapted to move at least one portion in the space “XYZ” with three degrees of freedom. A central control unit (5) controls each actuation device (3) as a function of data obtained through sensors (7). The sensors (7) can continuously determine, on each chassis portion, key points (A, B, C) which are univocal for each portion. The central control unit (5), depending on data from the sensors (7), activates the actuation device (3) to bring near and connect the at least two portions, while the sensors (7) monitor the relative position between the key points (A, B, C) of the portions and the absolute position of the portions in the space “XYZ”. A method is associated with the automated joining system for automatically joining at least two portions to manufacture a chassis. |
| US09643709B1 |
Balloon gas release flight termination system
A control system for terminating flight of a balloon having a balloon envelope is provided. The control system includes a shuttle that has one or more cutting blades. The cutting blades are configured to cut open the balloon envelope. A tubular track is attached to a section of the balloon envelope. This tubular track has a guiding portion arranged to receive and guide the shuttle along the track. The control system includes a type of releasable ballast attached to the shuttle. When the ballast is released, the ballast is configured to move the shuttle along the tubular track in order to cause at least one of the cutting blades to cut open a portion of the balloon envelope. This allows lift gas to escape from the balloon envelope. |
| US09643708B2 |
Apparatus to lift and fill a balloon
Aspects of the disclosure relate to filling and lifting high altitude balloons. For instance, one example system for lifting and filling a balloon having a balloon envelope includes an apparatus for use with the balloon envelope. The apparatus includes a load line, a fill tube having a hollow portion nested within the load line and a termination member attached to the fill tube and load line. The load line is configured to lift the balloon envelope during inflation. The fill tube extends through the load line and is configured to allow lift gas to pass through the hollow portion. The termination member is configured to mate with an opening in the balloon envelope so that lift gas can pass through the hollow portion of the fill tube and into the opening in the balloon envelope. |
| US09643698B1 |
Systems and methods for providing notification regarding trim angle of a marine propulsion device
A system for notifying an operator of a marine vessel that a marine propulsion device is not at an efficient trim angle includes a notification device and a controller that sends a signal to the notification device to provide a trim up notification when the controller determines that the marine propulsion device is not at the optimal trim angle. The controller determines this based on at least one of the following: a current load on an engine of the marine propulsion device; a current fuel flow provided to the engine; a current air flow provided via a throttle valve to the engine; or an output from a PID control section of the controller that controls a position of the throttle valve. A method that compares a measured engine speed to an optimal engine speed corresponding to operation of the marine propulsion device at an optimal trim angle is also provided. |
| US09643696B1 |
Paddleboard seat assemblies
A paddleboard seat assembly for a paddleboard includes an assembly base including a pair of spaced-apart assembly base rails each having a plurality of modular rail segments connected in end-to-end relationship to each other and a seat carried by the assembly base rails of the assembly base. |
| US09643695B1 |
Removable suction cup fin
A removable fin assembly with at least one suction cup for attaching to a small watercraft and a method for attaching a fin assembly using at least one suction cup to a small watercraft. The fin assembly removably attaches to the underside of a small watercraft with the fin extending downwardly. The fin assembly is made up of at least one suction cup, at least one distributor to spread out the forces across the suction cup or cups, and at least one fin. The fin can be a traditional fin, a hydrofoil keel, or something similar. An optional shell can be added around the attachment location to reduce drag. Recesses can be added to the distributor to help support the fin or reduce drag. |
| US09643693B2 |
Floating marine structure having floats
A floating marine structure which includes a first float disposed at the center and a plurality of second floats disposed around the first float, where the first float has a floating body made of a floatable material in a polygonal prism shape, a damping unit coupled to the bottom of the floating body at the center, having the same cross-section as the floating body, having a cross-sectional area larger than the cross-sectional area of the floating body, and reducing a shake of the first float in the sea, and at least one coupling hole formed at each side of the floating body. The second float has the same shape as the floating body and has coupling protrusions formed at sides facing the sides of the floating body and inserted in the coupling holes, and wherein the coupling holes are formed at alternate sides of the floating body. |
| US09643691B2 |
Launch and recovery device
A method, apparatus, and computer program product for capturing a target object from a body of water. A first bulkhead may be proximate to a second bulkhead. An opening may be formed between at least a portion of the first and second bulkhead. The opening, via the first and second bulkhead, may be configured to align and receive at least a portion of the target object as a distance between the opening and at least the portion of the target object decreases, wherein the opening may be further configured to align and receive at least the portion of the target object while the target object is in the body of water. |
| US09643686B2 |
Rope clasp
A rope clasp device for securing a rope eliminates the need for a knot in a rope by selectively clasping and encasing at least one portion of a rope in a toothed clamp. The rope clasp device comprises a base, at least one, but generally two swinging doors, and a lock. The swinging doors are pivotably coupled to the base in order to be moved between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, a pair of channels for passage of a rope is defined between the base and the doors. The channels are defined by a plurality of clasping teeth to retain the rope therein. |
| US09643680B2 |
Folding structure for two-wheeled vehicle
The present disclosure relates to a folding structure for two-wheeled vehicle, comprising: a front wheel; a rear wheel; a first connection rod connected to the front wheel; a second connection rod connected to the rear wheel; a first rotary shaft for rotating the first connection rod relative to the second connection rod; and a second rotary shaft for rotating the front wheel relative to the first connection rod, wherein a space is formed by means of the rotation of the first connection rod relative to the first rotary shaft and the rotation of the front wheel relative to the second rotary shaft so as to allow the first connection rod and the second connection rod to be placed between the front wheel and the rear wheel. |
| US09643679B2 |
Scooter with rotational connection
A scooter device that can be propelled by side to side movement of a user is disclosed. The scooter device includes at least a first front wheel, at least a second and a third rearward located wheel, a frame structure through which the first wheel is coupled to the second and third wheels, wherein the second and third rearward located wheels are mounted in a biased direction arrangement and a steering mechanism that has a vertically ascending control member and is coupled to the first wheel such that turning of the steering mechanism achieves a turning of the first wheel, the steering mechanism further coupled to the frame structure such that the steering mechanism may be tilted relative to the frame structure. The frame structure can includes a first foot placement platform extending above the second wheel and a second foot placement platform extending above the third wheel. |
| US09643675B2 |
Attachment system and method of using the same
An attachment system for securing an accessory to a vehicle is disclosed. The attachment system generally comprises at least a locking mechanism mountable to, or integral with, the accessory, and a base mounted to, or integral with, the vehicle. The locking mechanism generally comprises an actuator configured to actuate or displace at least a pair of locking elements between an inoperative (or unlocked) position and an operative (or locked) position. The base generally comprises at least one opening configured to at least partially receive the locking mechanism. The attachment system generally allows the installation and removal of the accessory by actuating the actuator of the at least one locking mechanism. |
| US09643674B1 |
Motorcycle
A motorcycle includes a structure for making the lighting devices inconspicuous while still fulfilling the function and protecting the lighting devices. A horizontally opposed engine includes cylinder heads with cylinder head covers covering the cylinder heads. A pair of left and right lighting devices for lighting the front of vehicle are provided. The lighting devices are provided on the cylinder head covers. |
| US09643671B2 |
Kit for building a vehicle
A kit for constructing a commercial vehicle supplied ex-works as a flat-pack package using the vehicle chassis as a pallet. The kit includes components comprising: a chassis, an engine attachable to the chassis, located within and supported by the chassis, and a plurality of upright chassis members attachable to the chassis thereby to define at least a cabin, placed flat over the chassis. The component making up the kit can be restrained in place, such as by wrapping or tying with suitable film, bands or cords. Body panels attachable to the chassis uprights can be supplied, placed flat over the chassis. Brake line, a wiring loom and major drivetrain items such as the engine, differential and propshaft may be pre-attached to the chassis in their final locations before shipping the kit. With suitable spacers, several such kits could be packed for transport in a single vehicle or container. |
| US09643670B2 |
Arrangement in a forestry machine and a forestry machine equipped with a corresponding arrangement
The invention relates to an arrangement in a forestry machine (100), in which arrangement there is —a chassis (12), —a single-axle set of wheels (13) pivoted to the chassis (12), and —at least one auxiliary wheel (18) fitted the outside the set of wheels (13), in order to increase the load-bearing capacity of the rear part (19) of the chassis (12). —The arrangement further includes —at least one support arm (20) arranged to carry the said auxiliary wheel (18) at its first end (22) and pivoted at its second end (24) to the said chassis (12) with the aid of a transverse shaft (23), —a support surface (36) attached to the chassis (12) and a counter surface (38) attached to the said support arm (20), for limiting the transverse movement of the support arm (20). —The invention also relates to a corresponding forestry machine. |
| US09643669B1 |
Attachable laterally-stable range extender for an electric vehicle
A system for dual-attachment of a trailer to a vehicle by either manually or robotically so that the trailer becomes a laterally-stable extension of the vehicle. |
| US09643668B2 |
Sprocket for a track-type machine
A sprocket is disclosed. The sprocket may have a cylindrical hub having a first hub end and a second hub end disposed opposite the first hub end. The sprocket may also have a sprocket wheel disposed on the cylindrical hub between the first hub end and the second hub end. The sprocket may further have at least one tooth disposed on the sprocket wheel. The at least one tooth may have a tooth bottom disposed on a root circle. The at least one tooth may also have a tooth flank extending radially outward from the root circle to an outer surface of the at least one tooth. In addition, the at least one tooth may have a flat extending from the tooth bottom at a generally obtuse angle relative to a radial axis of the at least one tooth. |
| US09643663B2 |
Air guiding device, vehicle and method for operating an air guiding device
An air guiding device for a vehicle has a first air guiding element and a second air guiding element. A first hinge mechanism connects the first air guiding element hingedly to a rear of the vehicle, and a second hinge mechanism connects the second air guiding element hingedly to the first air guiding element. |
| US09643661B2 |
Panel joint structure
A panel joint structure including: a first panel; a second panel that forms a space between itself and the first panel; a joint portion; a seal member that seals a gap between a distal end portion of the joint flange portion and the second panel; and a first panel bead portion that is formed in a region of the joint flange portion adjacent to the joint portion in the lengthwise direction of the first panel, that projects in a direction away from the second panel, that extends from a distal end to a base end of the joint flange portion, that forms with the second panel an air vent hole communicated with the space, and that slopes in a direction away from the second panel heading toward the base end side of the joint flange portion as seen from the lengthwise direction of the first panel. |
| US09643653B2 |
Attachment of a front end of a motor vehicle to a subframe of the motor vehicle
An attachment of a front end of a motor vehicle to a subframe of the motor vehicle, includes an adjustment device arranged between the front end and the subframe, as viewed in the motor vehicle longitudinal direction, to attach the front end to the subframe. The adjustment device has a front-end-side and a subframe-side adjusting unit, and is configured such that the adjustment device can be shortened, as viewed in the motor vehicle longitudinal direction, in the event of a correspondingly high force impact caused by accident. The subframe-side adjusting unit of the adjustment device is arranged on a housing mounted to the subframe. |
| US09643647B2 |
Steering knuckle apparatus for a vehicle
A vehicle steering knuckle includes a body part to which an axle is attached, an arm portion including one end integrally connected with an outer periphery of the body part and spreading outwardly from the body part along an extending axis, and a connecting portion configured to be connected with a vehicle component. The arm portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a hollow portion. The first portion including a peripheral wall configured to enclose around the extending axis. The second portion including a peripheral wall including an opening partially opened around the extending axis. At a cross-section intersecting the extending axis, an end portion of the peripheral wall of the second portion on a side of the opening includes an enlarged portion which is enlarged in width as compared with thickness of side portions adjacent to the end portion. |
| US09643643B2 |
Extensible actuator control method, extensible actuator, and steering device
An extensible actuator includes a motor, a rod, a conversion unit and an electromagnetic braking system. The motor generates rotating force. The rod freely reciprocates in an axial direction. The conversion mechanism converts the rotating force of the motor into a reciprocating motion of the rod. The electromagnetic braking system brakes the reciprocating motion of the rod. |
| US09643642B2 |
Vehicle steering apparatus
A vehicle steering apparatus includes a steering reaction force generating device including a steering reaction force motor, a turning device including a turning motor, a clutch device including an electromagnetic solenoid configured to mechanically engage and disengage the steering reaction force generating device and the turning device, a turning motor temperature sensor configured to detect a motor temperature value of the turning motor, a current integrated value acquiring unit configured to acquire a current integrated value of the turning motor, an abnormality diagnostic unit configured to diagnose whether the turning motor temperature sensor is normal, and a drive control unit configured to control the drive of the electromagnetic solenoid on the basis of the current integrated value of the turning motor acquired by the current integrated value acquiring unit if the abnormality diagnostic unit diagnoses the turning motor temperature sensor as being in an abnormal state. |
| US09643634B2 |
Cleaning cart
A cleaning cart has a basic body, wherein the lateral extent of the basic body is bounded by an outer circumferential boundary surface or boundary line, and wherein the basic body bears at least one module which is coupleable to the basic body, is configured such that cleaning cart can bear a multiplicity of modules of different size while having a very compact and space-saving design, in that the module is assigned to the basic body in such a positive, frictional and/or non-positive manner preventing tilting that the base region of the module projects at least on one side beyond the boundary surface or boundary line of the basic body. |
| US09643630B1 |
Large diameter hose draining device
A hose draining device that rolls along the ground and raises up a portion of a flexible hose to facilitate draining the hose. The device has a leading roller that is close to the ground, a center roller that is spaced away from the ground, and a trailing roller that is further away from the ground than the center roller. The hose is supported by the rollers while the device moves along the length of the hose. The device has a handle portion that is removable for storage and transportation. A counterbalance may be provided near the leading roller to stabilize the device. |
| US09643627B2 |
Method for operating a mobile device in a railway system, railway system and mobile device
A method operates a mobile device in a railway system with at least one optical waveguide which is laid next to at least one railway track and into which light pulses are fed. The optical waveguide is used as a distributed acoustic sensor and detects scattered-back light. In order to be able to identify reliably such a mobile device in a comparatively easy way, the mobile device is provided with a sound generator which can be adjusted with respect to its frequency spectrum in a way which designates the mobile device. The sound generator is adjusted with respect to its frequency spectrum in a way which designates the mobile device by assigning a frequency selection to the mobile device. An identification number signal of the mobile device is acquired by detecting the scattered-back light from the detected frequency selection. A railway system having such a mobile device is also taught. |
| US09643625B2 |
System and method for powered railcar doors
In one embodiment, a system includes a first door assembly operable to at least partially cover an opening of a rail car. The system also includes an actuator. A first common linkage is coupled to the actuator and is operable to reciprocally move in a longitudinal direction relative to the actuator. In particular embodiments, a first secondary linkage is coupled to the first common linkage and is coupled to an exterior surface of the first door assembly, wherein the first secondary linkage cooperates with the first common linkage to move the first door assembly between an open position and a closed position over the top hatch of the rail car. |
| US09643622B2 |
Track-guided vehicle, and car body tilt control method therefor
This track-guided vehicle is provided with a car body, and a bogie that supports the car body from the bottom, and has a frame capable of pivoting around an axis perpendicular to a track. The bogie is provided with: a car body tilting part that tilts the car body to the left and right in the direction of travel; a detection part that detects the amount of pivot of the frame; and a tilt control part that allows the car body to be tilted by the car body tilting part on the basis of the amount of pivot detected by the detection part. |
| US09643619B2 |
System and method for applying vehicle settings in a vehicle
A method and system for applying vehicle settings to a vehicle. The method and system include receiving a device identification (ID) from at least one of: a first portable device and a second portable device. The method and system additionally include identifying a user settings profile that is associated to the device ID. The method and system also include determining if the user settings profile has been updated since a last ignition cycle of the vehicle. The method and system further include applying the user settings profile to control a vehicle system, wherein the user settings profile is retrieved from at least one of: a central user settings data repository, a telematics unit of the vehicle, and a head unit of the vehicle. |
| US09643614B2 |
Slip and energy based clutch protection
Clutch protection systems and methods include calculating a slip of a clutch of a manual transmission based on an input rotational velocity of a flywheel coupled to a torque generating system. The calculated slip is used to calculate an energy into the clutch. In one implementation, an accumulated energy into the clutch is calculated based on a rate of the calculated energy and a torque request for the torque generating system is limited based on the accumulated energy. In one implementation, an energy capacity remaining in the clutch until a threshold indicative of damage occurring is calculated based on the calculated energy and a limited torque request for the torque generating system is generated. The limited torque request corresponds to an amount of allowable torque before full clutch engagement occurs, where this time is calculable based on a rate at which the clutch slip is decreasing. |
| US09643612B2 |
Vehicle control unit
The embodiment provides a vehicle control unit including a road surface friction coefficient estimation module. The road surface friction coefficient estimation module estimates a road surface friction coefficient based on a parameter other than a body speed. The vehicle control unit further includes first and second torque increment setting modules. The first second torque increment setting module sets an initial value of a torque increment to be used in the torque control when a start thereof is detected. The initial value of the torque increment is set based on the road surface friction coefficient. The second torque increment setting module sets a current value of the torque increment after the initial value has been set. The current value of the torque increment is set based on the previous value thereof and a change in the slip amount. |
| US09643611B2 |
Control device for vehicle and drive system for vehicle
A control signal output unit (a drive control unit) executes control to retain a gear position corresponding to a motor generator during deceleration of a vehicle and regeneration executed by the motor generator. |
| US09643610B2 |
Method and arrangement for controlling an automatic transmission unit
A method is provided for controlling an automatic transmission unit including at least a transmission with different selectable gear ratios and a clutch and being associated with a propulsion unit for a vehicle. The method includes operating the vehicle at a prevailing vehicle speed (v) in a downslope with the automatic transmission unit in a neutral gear or disengaged from the propulsion unit; operating the propulsion unit in an idle mode of operation; controlling the automatic transmission unit so as to select a gear which is a relatively low gear with regard to the prevailing vehicle speed (v), while maintaining the automatic transmission unit in a neutral gear or disengaged from the propulsion unit; and engaging the clutch to be slipping between the propulsion unit and the automatic transmission unit in order to adapt the rotational speed of the propulsion unit to the gear ratio of the relatively low gear. |
| US09643608B2 |
Vehicular power transmission device
A vehicular power transmission device that includes a parking gear that is drivingly coupled with wheels; a parking pawl that is capable of meshing or unmeshing with or from the parking gear; a hydraulic pressure actuator that unmeshes the parking pawl from the parking gear when a release hydraulic pressure is supplied; a first oil pump that generates a hydraulic pressure; a second oil pump that generates a hydraulic pressure, the second oil pump having a capacity smaller than the first oil pump; a hydraulic pressure control device that is capable of deriving the release hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure generated by the second oil pump or the hydraulic pressure generated by the first oil pump and supplying the release hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic pressure actuator; and a control unit. |
| US09643603B2 |
Travel controller, server, and in-vehicle device
A travel control device includes: a vehicle detection device configured to detect a position of a peripheral vehicle that travels in a periphery of a host vehicle in a lane, in which the host vehicle travels, or a lane adjacent to and heading in a same direction of the host vehicle; a generation device configured to assign a potential field to a predetermined region, which is adjacent to the position of the peripheral vehicle, the potential field indicating a degree of psychological pressure received by a driver of the host vehicle, and configured to generate a potential distribution that represents a distribution of the potential field of the peripheral vehicle on a road; and a control device configured to control a travel condition of the host vehicle that the host vehicle travels in the potential field relatively low in the potential distribution. |
| US09643601B2 |
Driving assistance device
A driving assistance device improves the accuracy of driving assistance for parking. A traveling controller detects a line positioned on a road surface from a captured image captured by a camera. A parking frame is extracted from the detected line and acceleration suppression control of a vehicle is executed based on the extracted parking frame. At this time, the acceleration suppression control is cancelled if a crossing is detected based on the captured image. |
| US09643595B2 |
Power transmission device for vehicle
An output shaft is arranged to be lateral and parallel to engine input shafts and a motor input shaft. An engine side gear mechanism for transmitting a power of the engine input shafts to the output shaft is provided. A motor side gear mechanism for transmitting a power of the motor input shaft to the output shaft is provided. An input side clutch engages and disengages the engine input shafts and the motor input shaft. When the input side clutch is engaged, the power transmission between a position where the engine side gear mechanism is arranged on the engine input shafts and a position where the motor side gear mechanism is arranged on the motor input shaft is invariably possible. |
| US09643589B2 |
Vehicular information processing device
A vehicle in a first mode consumes a charge amount of a battery. The vehicle in a second mode maintains the charge amount of the battery. An obtaining circuitry obtains, as a first distance, a total distance for which the vehicle has traveled in the first mode. When the vehicle is assumed to have traveled with the first mode preferentially assigned to the travel route separately from the travel plan, an estimating circuitry estimates, as a second distance, a total distance for which the vehicle would have traveled in the first mode. A notifying circuitry notifies the first distance information and the second distance information. |
| US09643587B2 |
Sequence valve for a brake cylinder having an automatic parking brake
A sequencing valve for an automatic parking brake. The sequencing valve has a housing with a first port for communication with a source of a brake pipe pressure, a second port for communication with an exhaust, and a third port for communication with a brake pipe pressure input of an automatic parking brake. A valve body in the housing is moveable to either isolate the brake pipe pressure from the input to the parking brake, or couple brake pipe pressure to the input so that the parking brake may be released. A pilot is interconnected to the valve body for moving the valve body from the first position to the second position and can be driven by a charging and partial release of brake pipe pressure, charging of brake cylinder pressure, or a pneumatic signal provided by an electrical or a pneumatic control valve. |
| US09643585B2 |
Stroke simulator
Provided is a stroke simulator capable of suppressing occurrence of inclination of a piston with respect to a sliding surface formed in a cylinder. The stroke simulator includes a simulator piston which is displaced by sliding on a sliding surface formed in a first cylinder, and a first return spring which is housed in the first cylinder and applies, to the simulator piston, a reaction force which is generated by an elastic deformation of the spring under a pressing force due to a displacement of the simulator piston, and generates the reaction force which is applied to the simulator piston as a brake reaction force for a brake operating element. The stroke simulator is characterized in that a cup seal for sealing a gap formed between the sliding surface and the simulator piston is mounted in the middle in the axial direction of the sliding surface. |
| US09643582B2 |
Master brake cylinder for a braking system of a vehicle and method for operating a master brake cylinder
A master brake cylinder for a braking system of a vehicle has: a first filling volume, which is fillable with liquid, and whose first dimension is variable by adjusting at least one first piston wall; a second filling volume, which is fillable with liquid, and whose dimension is variable by adjusting at least one second piston wall; and a valve unit, the first filling volume being connected via the valve unit to the second filling volume in such a way that when the valve unit is switched into a first valve state, a joint first pressure chamber pressure prevails in the first filling volume and in the second filling volume. |
| US09643580B2 |
Brake system for a land vehicle and method for controlling a brake system
A brake system for a land vehicle includes at least one wheel brake; a pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid from the inlet side of the pump to the outlet side of the pump; at least one intermediate store for receiving hydraulic fluid; a hydraulic connection between the intermediate store and the inlet side of the pump; at least one first valve arrangement for blocking a hydraulic connection between the outlet side of the pump and the at least one wheel brake; at least one second valve arrangement for blocking a hydraulic connection between the at least one wheel brake and the inlet side of the pump; and at least one third valve arrangement for blocking a hydraulic connection between the outlet side of the pump and the intermediate store. A method for controlling a brake system is disclosed wherein the braking pressure in at least one wheel brake is reduced by pumping the hydraulic fluid from the at least one wheel brake into the intermediate store, and the second and third valve arrangement are in a conducting position. |
| US09643574B2 |
Apparatus and method for automated energy storage device exchange and rapid charging
An apparatus for energy storage device exchange includes a central pillar; a first carrier that is mounted on the central pillar for motion generally parallel to and around a generally vertical working axis, and that is configured to engage a lifting structure of an energy storage device; at least one motor; and a controller configured to operate with the at least one motor to: rotate the first carrier around the working axis to a removal position adjacent to the lifting structure of the energy storage device mounted on a vehicle; engage the first carrier with the lifting structure and lift the energy storage device generally along the working axis; rotate the first carrier around the working axis to a deposit position adjacent to an energy storage device receptacle; and lower the first carrier generally along the working axis to deposit the energy storage device at the energy storage device receptacle. |
| US09643567B2 |
Motor vehicle with foldable backseat and safety belt assigned to the same
A backrest for a back seat of a motor vehicle is pivotable between a usage and folded position. A lateral part is arranged next to the backrest in usage position and forms a gap therebetween. A safety belt adjacent to the gap rests on a contact surface of the lateral part. A guide element is arranged in the gap and mounted in the lateral part for moving from an operative position partially projecting out of the gap and too a non-operative position completely retracted in the gap and vice versa. The guide element projects over the contact surface in the operative position. The guide element is moved from the operative position into the non-operative position against a spring force when the backrest pivots into the usage position. |
| US09643556B2 |
Vehicle front structure
A vehicle front structure is configured such that an absorber is provided on a front surface of a center brace that connects in a vehicle up and down direction a radiator support upper to a radiator support lower. Accordingly, when a load is input from a front side of a vehicle, a load transfer passage through the absorber, the center brace, and the radiator support upper or the radiator support lower is newly configured, thereby improving impact absorption performance. |
| US09643554B2 |
Collision sensing apparatus
An apparatus includes a closed body having a varied configuration between a first location and at least a second location. The apparatus further includes a pressure sensor coupled to the closed body at the first location. When forces with substantially equal magnitudes are respectively applied to the closed body at different locations between the first and second locations, the closed body respectively translates the forces to substantially equal pressure differentials at the first location. |
| US09643552B2 |
Electrical power system for hybrid vehicles
A modular battery and power control system provides a range of electrical power to high voltage and low voltage power demand systems in a hybrid vehicle. The modular battery and power control system provides a dual voltage modular battery pack that provides both a high voltage output and a low voltage output. The modular battery pack is selectively connected to high voltage and low voltage demand systems by a switch system. The switch system is controlled by an ignition switch module which determines the electrical demands of the hybrid vehicle. |
| US09643541B2 |
Integrated center console latch opening close-out feature
A storage bin shell for a vehicle includes a main bin portion defining a storage bin having a latch opening and an integrated latch opening close-out member configured to provide a latch opening close-out. The integrated latch opening close-out member includes a hinged portion, which may be a living hinge. The hinged portion further includes a retainer for engaging a co-operating receiver defined in the main bin portion, whereby rotating or folding the hinged portion allows engaging the co-operating receiver by the retainer to define the latch opening close-out. |
| US09643539B2 |
Capturing device, capturing system and capturing method
A capturing device includes an image sensor that generates an image signal by performing photoelectric conversion for light from a subject, a control unit that generates a setting value for setting a range where an image resulting from the image signal is cut, based on a first instruction input from a user, a setting value storage unit that stores the setting value generated by the control unit, an image conversion unit that reads the setting value from the setting value storage unit, and cuts a specific region specified by the setting value from the image and enlarges the cut region, when there is a second instruction input from the user, and an output unit that converts a signal of the image cut and enlarged by the image conversion unit into an image signal of a predetermined format and outputs the converted image signal. |
| US09643538B2 |
Absolute acceleration sensor for use within moving vehicles
A communication system for a vehicle includes a vehicle speed sensor configured to emit a periodic function with a parameter correlated to the speed of the vehicle, an acceleration monitoring system, a braking system engagement detector to detect a braking status of the vehicle, an alerting device capable of signaling other drivers of a deceleration condition of the vehicle, and a control device. The acceleration monitoring system is configured to compute the acceleration of the vehicle from variations in the parameter of the periodic function of the vehicle speed sensor and to output a deceleration status of the vehicle. The control device is coupled to the acceleration monitoring system, the braking system engagement detector, and the alerting device, wherein the acceleration monitoring system sends signals to the control device and the control device operates the alerting device in a manner dependent on the deceleration status of the vehicle. |
| US09643532B2 |
Method for producing a light for vehicles and exterior mirror assembly of a vehicle with a lamp thus prepared
A method for manufacturing a lamp for vehicles is disclosed in which a housing, a light conductor, and a clear lens are produced as one unit out of plastic in a 3-component injection procedure. The refractive index of the plastic of the clear lens is selected to be different from the refractive index of the plastic of the light conductor. The boundary between clear lens and the light conductor adjacent to it is formed with a structure. Because of the difference of the two refractive indexes and the structure at the given light admission on at least one light incoupling area at one end of the light conductor, light outcoupling areas are defined along the extent of the light conductor and out of the lamp. The invention furthermore relates to a side-view mirror arrangement of a vehicle having a lamp manufactured in this manner, preferably in the form of a blinker. |
| US09643531B2 |
Programmable devices for alerting vehicles and pedestrians and methods of using the same
Programmable devices and associated methods for alerting pedestrians and vehicle operators are provided. In accordance with various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, programmable devices for alerting pedestrians and vehicle operators are provided, the programmable device for alerting pedestrians and vehicle operators comprising: a housing having an attachment mechanism and an actuator disposed thereon, the attachment configured for engagement with a portion of a bicycle on a location proximate to at least one hand of a user while the user is in a riding position on the bicycle; a data input component disposed along the housing and configured to receive at least one audio file; a speaker in electrical communication with the data input and operably coupled with the actuator, the speaker configured to produce sound corresponding to the at least one audio file upon engagement of the actuator by the user; and at least one light source operably coupled with the actuator, the at least one light source configured to produce at least one lighting projection configuration upon engagement of the actuator by the user. |
| US09643525B2 |
Device for holding a container
A device for holding a container includes a base configured to support the container, a retaining mechanism configured to retain the container relative to the base, and an actuator mechanism coupled to the retaining mechanism. The retaining mechanism includes an iris moveable between an insertion position and a retaining position. A central opening formed by the iris in the insertion position has an insertion diameter greater than a retaining diameter of the central opening formed by the iris in the retaining position. The iris includes a plurality of arms arranged in a first level and a second level. User rotation of the actuator mechanism in a first direction causes the arms of the iris to move to the retaining position, and in a second direction opposite the first direction causes the arms of the iris to move away from the retaining position towards the insertion position. |
| US09643522B2 |
Orthopedic cushion for a seat
An orthopedic seat cushion for placement on a seat for supporting the weight of an occupant includes an envelope comprising an upper sheet and a lower sheet sealed together to define an interior volume. The interior volume is subdivided into a plurality of depressible cells wherein adjacent cells are in fluid communication with one another. The envelope has an opening penetrated through the upper sheet and lower sheet, wherein the opening has a front end and a back end and is configured to allow clearance for a sensitive area of the occupant. At least one cell has a height dimension that inhibits the sensitive area from contacting the seat when the at least one cell is depressed by the weight of the occupant. |
| US09643521B2 |
Motor vehicle
A motor vehicle, encompassing a body, a drive motor, in particular an internal combustion engine and/or an electric motor, a crash detection device, a computing unit, at least one front seat with a seat part and a back part, at least one rear seat with a seat part and a back part, at least one rearward displacement device for the at least partial rearward displacement of the at least one front seat during a pre-crash phase acquired by the crash detection device, wherein the seat part of the at least one rear seat has built into it a first means for lifting up the legs of an individual on the at least one rear seat during the pre-crash phase, and the back part of the at least one front seat has built into it a second means for the rearward movement of the legs of the individual on the at least one rear seat during the pre-crash phase. |
| US09643518B2 |
Motor vehicle seat comprising a seatback part with a detachable part provided with storage means
A seat for a motor vehicle includes a back part and a sitting part. The back part includes at least one detachable main part, which is adapted to be entirely separated from the rest of the seat. The detachable main part also includes, at the rear, storage fixed to the detachable main part. |
| US09643510B2 |
Battery pack charging protocol selection system
A charging system is provided for use with the battery pack of an electric vehicle, where both the charge level and the charging rate may be specified over a range of available levels and rates, respectively. A system controller coupled to the charging system determines the optimal charging level and the optimal charging rate, where optimization is based on maximizing battery lifetime while insuring that there is sufficient power for the vehicle to travel the user's intended distance and that the charging process will be completed prior to the user's intended departure time. |
| US09643508B2 |
Method for estimating an accurate state of charge for initializing a battery management system
A method for initializing and operating a battery management system is disclosed. The method comprises the following steps. First, start the battery management system. Next, read battery variables which are stored in a nonvolatile memory of the battery and comprise the last state of charge of the battery. Then measure the open-circuit voltage of the battery. Next, determine an instantaneous state of charge value on the basis of the measured open-circuit voltage. Then determine an estimated value of the state of charge of the battery as a function of both the stored last state of charge of the battery and the instantaneous state of charge value. Then initialize the state of charge in the battery management system using the determined estimated value of the state of charge. Finally, operate the battery management system with the initialized values. |
| US09643507B2 |
Recharging an aircraft battery
And aircraft recharging station is provided for recharging an aircraft provided with a rechargeable battery. The recharging station includes a parking surface with conductive tiles selectively connected to an electrical power supply. The recharging station also includes a controller configured to determine a position of the aircraft on the parking surface by connecting, including being configured to iteratively connect a different pair of tiles to the electrical power supply to provide a circuit including positive and negative tiles connected thereto, and test an electrical circuit condition of the circuit, until a closed circuit condition is determined, thereby indicating that the aircraft is positioned on the positive and negative tiles, and that the battery is thereby rechargeable by the electrical power supply. |
| US09643500B2 |
Vehicular control device
A vehicular control device includes a rotation angle sensor sensing a rotation angle of a rotor of a motor, and a control device controlling the motor. When the control device controls the motor and detects that the vehicle has a collision, the control device determines a switching pattern, based on the rotation angle obtained from the rotation angle sensor, to switch a switching device of an inverter that drives the motor to zero a q axis current and also pass a d axis current, and once the switching pattern has been determined, then, whatever rotation angle may be sensed by the rotation angle sensor, the determined switching pattern is applied to discharge the electric charge of a smoothing capacitor connected to the inverter of the motor. This allows the smoothing capacitor's electric charge to be discharged if the rotation angle sensor has failed. |
| US09643492B2 |
Motor vehicle having a fuel cell
In a motor vehicle having a fuel cell, an air compressor provides input air under pressure at the fuel cell and an electric drive motor for driving the motor vehicle, which drive motor can be supplied with electric current by the fuel cell for that purpose, wherein the air compressor is driven by the drive motor. |
| US09643490B2 |
Drive assembly with electric machine and motor vehicle having such a drive assembly
The invention elates to an electric drive assembly for a multi-axle driven motor vehicle which comprises an internal combustion engine, a multi-step transmission with an output shaft for driving a rear axle, as well as an optionally driveable front axle. The drive assembly comprises an electric machine (6), a reduction gearing (7) drivingly connected to the electric machine (6), a driveshaft (9) drivingly connected to the reduction gearing (7) and drivingly connectable to a front propeller shaft (65) for driving the front axle, and a housing 5 in which the electric machine (6) and the reduction gearing (7) are arranged. The housing (5) comprises connecting means (16) for connecting the drive assembly (2) to the multi-step transmission. The electric drive assembly is designed such that, with the electric drive assembly mounted at the multi-step transmission (56), a rear propeller shaft (57) can be connected at least indirectly to the output shaft of the multi-step transmission for driving the rear axle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a motor vehicle with such a driveline assembly. |
| US09643489B2 |
System and method for controlling a vehicle
In accordance with one aspect of the techniques described herein, there is provided a vehicle comprising an engine, an automatic, robotic, or continuously variable transmission mechanically coupled to the engine, a four-wheel drive system, a vehicle control system coupled to the engine, the four-wheel drive system and the transmission, a braking system, a gas pedal for controlling the operation of the engine, a brake pedal for controlling the operation of the braking system, the gas pedal and the brake pedal being disposed in the vehicle for control by a right foot of the driver, the vehicle further comprising an additional pedal being disposed in the vehicle for control by a left foot of the driver and coupled to the vehicle control system, wherein the additional pedal is separate and distinct from the brake pedal and the gas pedal and wherein additional pedal controls the four-wheel drive system of the vehicle. |
| US09643487B2 |
Vehicle fuel filler assembly
A vehicle and a fuel filler assembly may be provided. The fuel filler assembly may include a housing, a panel assembly, and a sensor assembly. The panel assembly may be carried by the housing and may include a door and a hinge extending from the door. The hinge may have indicia disposed thereon and the sensor assembly may be configured to provide a signal indicative of a location of the indicia relative to the housing. |
| US09643482B2 |
Active air flap and active air flap assembly
An active air flap is provided. The active air flap includes a plurality of flaps and an elastic member bonding the plurality of flaps to form a preset angle with respect to each other. The elastic member is insert-molded between the respective flaps and a roller is coupled to the top of the active air flap with a connection member and the active air flap is wound there around by a restoring force of the elastic member. Additionally, a support bracket that rotatably supports the roller through pins protrudes from a plurality of ends of the roller, and has an aperture formed therein and the active air flap is configured to open or close the aperture. |
| US09643481B2 |
Multi-mode powersplit hybrid transmission
A family of hybrid electric transmissions operate in at least three modes based on selective engagement of shift elements. In a low mode, torque in a mechanical power flow path is multiplied for better low speed performance. At higher vehicle speeds, the transmission shifts into a high mode to improve efficiency. Some embodiments include a reverse mode. In other embodiments, a series mode may be used in reverse. The shift elements may include friction clutches, positive engagement clutches, and controllable one way clutches. |
| US09643478B2 |
Vehicle press door structure and door glass run
A vehicle press door structure includes: a door frame in which an open portion having a recess-shaped cross-section that is open to an inner peripheral side is formed by a door outer panel, and a door inner panel arranged on a vehicle width direction inside of the door outer panel; a door glass run that has lip portions that respectively extend toward a center side from both side portions of a door glass run main body having a recess-shaped cross-section and slidingly contact a door glass, the door glass run being fit into the open portion with a base portion between both of the side portions of the door glass nm main body opposing an inside wall of the door inner panel; and a seal portion that protrudes from the base portion and contacts the inside wall, and extends in a length direction of the door glass run main body. |
| US09643475B2 |
Windscreen installation apparatus and method
Apparatus for use in handling windscreens for example for installation in a vehicle, includes a windscreen anchor assembly comprising a windscreen anchor device and a support arm extending away from the windscreen anchor device. A mount assembly is provided for supporting the windscreen anchor assembly. The mount assembly includes a mount structure for engaging with the support arm such that the support arm can slide bodily in its longitudinal direction with respect to the mount structure. |
| US09643473B2 |
Heat pump system for vehicles
A heat pump system for a vehicle includes a dehumidification line for supplying some refrigerant circulating in a refrigerant circulation line to an evaporator before the refrigerant is introduced into an exterior heat exchanger after passing a first expansion means so as to dehumidify the interior of the vehicle in a heat pump mode, thereby allowing the refrigerant to smoothly flow to the evaporator at a low pressure through the dehumidification line before the refrigerant is introduced into the exterior heat exchanger which has a higher pressure than the evaporator when the interior of the vehicle is dehumidified, and smoothly dehumidifying the inside of the vehicle. |
| US09643472B2 |
Air-conditioner for vehicle
A control part controls a first opening-and-closing part to close either one of a first outside air introduction port and a first inside air introduction port when it is determined that outside air introduced from the first outside air introduction port flows into a passenger compartment through the first inside air introduction port, and controls a second opening-and-closing part to close either one of a second outside air introduction port and a second inside air introduction port when it is determined that outside air introduced from the second outside air introduction port flows into the passenger compartment through the second inside air introduction port. |
| US09643470B2 |
Air conditioning device for vehicle
A vehicle air conditioning apparatus is provided to prevent a frost from being formed on a heat exchanger under the condition that the outdoor temperature is low. During a heating and dehumidifying operation, the third solenoid valve 25c is closed when outdoor temperature Tam is predetermined temperature T1 or lower, or when temperature Thex of the refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger 22 is a predetermined temperature T2 or lower and temperature Te detected by the cooled air temperature sensor 44 is temperature Tet-β or lower. By this means, during the heating and dehumidifying operation, when a frost is likely to be formed on the heat exchanger 14, it is possible to prevent the refrigerant from flowing into the heat exchanger 14, and to prevent a frost from being formed on the heat exchanger 14. |
| US09643466B1 |
Control of adjustable ride height suspension
A vehicle includes a suspension corner connecting the vehicle's road wheel to the vehicle's body and characterized by a ride height at the suspension corner. An actuator at the suspension corner is configured to selectively extend and contract in response to a volume of received pressurized fluid to selectively increase and reduce the ride height. The actuator includes a locking device configured to selectively restrain the piston in a predetermined position and release the piston, and includes an actuation mechanism for activating the device to restrain the piston in the predetermined position. A controller is configured to determine if a change in the ride height is required and to assess if the piston is restrained by the locking device. If the piston is restrained by the locking device and the change in ride height is required, the controller releases the piston via the device and then changes the ride height. |
| US09643459B2 |
Wheel drive having a rotary union
A wheel hub drive with a planetary transmission includes a wheel hub rotatably mounted on a fixed component and at least one fluid-carrying passage. The fixed component is configured to receive a tire with a gaseous filling. The at least one fluid-carrying passage extends indirectly as far as the tire through the fixed component in order to regulate the gas pressure in the tire. An annular rotary union defines at least a portion of the at least one fluid-carrying passage and is configured to connect the fixed component fluidically to the tire. The annular rotary union is arranged axially between the fixed component and the rotatably mounted wheel hub. |
| US09643458B2 |
Tire
A tire (1) is provided with multiple projection parts (500) in a groove bottom (50B2) of a groove portion. The projection parts (500) extend from one side wall (50B1) to the other side wall (50B3) opposed to the one side wall (50B1), the side walls forming the groove portion. The projection parts (500) are arranged at predetermined intervals in the groove portion. A relationship of 0.75 L≦P≦10 L is satisfied where L denotes a length of the projection parts (500) and P denotes the predetermined intervals. In addition a relationship of 0.4≦FW/W<1 is satisfied, where W denotes a groove width of the groove portion and FW denotes a length of the projection parts (500) in an orthogonal direction which is orthogonal to the extending direction of the groove portion. |
| US09643453B2 |
Annular structure having multiple reinforcement bands
A non-pneumatic wheel with reinforcement bands that provide structural support for the wheel and a method of manufacture of such a wheel are described. The reinforcement band forms part of an annular reinforcement structure that includes a core that is cast in place between annular reinforcement bands. The core can be impregnated with a matrix material. The matrix material can also be used to form one or more elements of the non-pneumatic wheel. |
| US09643452B2 |
Adhesive composition and pneumatic tire using same
Provided is an adhesive composition that provides excellent adhesion between a thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic elastomer in which an elastomer component is dispersed in the thermoplastic resin and a tire by a combination of general-purpose materials, without using any special polymer. The adhesive composition comprises 100 parts by weight of a base polymer and 20 to 50 parts by weight of a resol-type phenolic resin-based resin crosslinking agent, wherein 100 parts by weight of the base polymer comprises 80 to 99 parts by weight of a thermoplastic elastomer and 1 to 20 parts by weight of a halogenated rubber. The resol-type phenolic resin-based resin crosslinking agent is preferably an alkylphenol-formaldehyde resin. Examples of the thermoplastic elastomer can include styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers, and examples of the halogenated rubber can include chloroprene rubber and chlorosulfonated polyethylene. |
| US09643450B2 |
Wheels
The present invention relates to a wheel rim extender device (1) removably mountable on a wheel (3) having a tire retaining rim (27) for engaging an outer surface of a tire (5). The device (1) has an annular member (11) for location adjacent a sidewall (7) of a tire (5) mounted on the wheel (3). The annular member (11) comprises an edge portion (33a, 33b) which defines an outer circumference of the annular member (11) and a support portion (35a, 35b), disposed radially inward of the edge portion (33a, 33b), for mounting on the wheel (3), wherein the edge portion (33a, 33b) has a greater flexibility than the support portion (35a, 35b). The invention also relates to the combination of a wheel rim extender device (1) and a wheel (3). |
| US09643449B2 |
Transfer printing method of electronic image and transfer sheet
A transfer sheet is provided, whereby a T-shirt or the like can be printed in few steps by means of an electronic image forming device that uses powdered toner, liquid ink, or the like containing a plastic resin. By means of mirror-image printing a picture pattern, which is an electronic image, onto a first sheet, aligning the first sheet and a second sheet, and heat-pressing, a coating is spread over a portion of the picture pattern printed onto the first sheet. The first sheet has a structure including a mold release layer, a resin layer, and a porous resin layer in a substrate, and the second sheet includes a mold release layer, a resin layer, an adhesive layer, and a colored porous resin layer in a substrate. |
| US09643448B2 |
Moistening system for envelopes that reduces clogging caused by contaminants
A moistening system that significantly reduces the problems caused by contaminants in the moistening fluid is provided. The catch basin of a moistening system is provided with a filter that reduces the amount of contaminants contained in the recycled moistening fluid. Additionally, the moistening fluid is buffered with an acid that acts to dissolve the paper filler and other soluble debris that may be introduced into the moistening fluid, thereby significantly decreasing any blinding of components of the moistening system that would otherwise reduce the flow rate of the moistening fluid through the system. These ensure that sufficient moistening fluid is applied to the envelope flaps, which results in consistent and complete sealing of the envelope flaps. |
| US09643447B2 |
Plant producing writing instrument and method of growing a plant
The present disclosure provides instruments, kits and methods for growing a plant. In some embodiments, a plant producing writing instrument is provided. Such writing instrument may include a housing having a writing end and an opposing non-writing end. In addition, a capsule with one or more seeds may be disposed at the non-writing end of the housing. The capsule may be degradable after placement in a moist soil to release the one or more seeds. |
| US09643444B2 |
Identification medium
An identification medium can be affixed to cloth or leather products by sewing. A cholesteric liquid crystal layer on which an embossed surface for forming a hologram is formed, is sandwiched between a first supporting member and a second supporting member. A mounting region that can be affixed to clothing, etc., by sewing, is formed. |
| US09643437B2 |
Printer that avoids exposure of a star wheel
A simple configuration avoids exposure of a star wheel that prevents the media from lifting up when the media conveyance path opens. A platen top unit 20 that supports first and second star wheels 25A, 25B is separated from an opening and closing platen unit 8, and is supported movably vertically. when the platen unit 8 is moved to the open position 8B to open the third conveyance path section 10c of the conveyance path 10 when a paper jam occurs, for example, the head elevator 17 is controlled to raise the platen top unit 20 and retract the first and second star wheels 25A, 25B supported by the platen top unit 20 to a position removed from easy contact with the user's hands. |
| US09643436B2 |
Printing press and a method for threading a printing material web into a printing unit of a printing press
A printing press has a printing unit with a print head, which is configured as an ink jet printing head, and a printing material guiding element which can be rotated about a respective rotational axis. The print can be moved along an actuating path in an actuating direction. The actuating direction has a component which is oriented orthogonally to an axial defined by the rotational axis of the printing material guiding element. A threading assembly, for threading in a printing material web along a threading path, is arranged within the printing unit. Parts of the threading path are spaced at least two centimeters from the axial direction in relation to every target region of every nozzle of every printing head of the printing unit. A method for threading a printing material web into the printing unit utilizes the threading assembly. |
| US09643429B2 |
Processing object modifying apparatus, printing apparatus, printing system, and method for manufacturing printout
A processing object modifying apparatus includes a conveying unit that conveys a processing object; a plasma processing unit that performs plasma processing onto a surface of the processing object while the processing object is being conveyed by the conveying unit; a measuring unit that measures a pH value of the processing object to which the plasma processing has been applied; and a controlling unit that controls the conveying unit to change a conveying speed of the processing object on the basis of a measurement result of the measuring unit, the processing object to which the plasma processing is being applied. |
| US09643425B2 |
Liquid discharge apparatus
A liquid discharge apparatus includes: a liquid discharge section configured to discharge liquid supplied from a liquid container in accordance with a drive signal; a sensor configured to measure a remaining quantity of the liquid in the liquid container; a measurement section configured to identify a measurement consumption quantity being a variation quantity of the remaining quantity in a measurement period; an estimation section configured to estimate an estimated consumption quantity of the liquid in accordance with print contents in the measurement period; a comparison section configured to make a comparison between the measurement consumption quantity and the estimated consumption quantity; if the measurement consumption quantity is smaller than the estimated consumption quantity by comparison of the comparison section, an inspection section configured to inspect whether or not there is a discharge defect in the liquid discharge section; and if the inspection section determines that there are no discharge defects, an adjustment section configured to adjust an amplitude of the drive signal. |
| US09643423B2 |
Liquid container with optically transparent area and liquid ejection apparatus including liquid container with visual recognition portion
There is provided a liquid container including a casing that has a side wall surrounding a container portion configured to contain a liquid; a projecting portion that is provided inside of the container portion to be protruded from a fourth wall corresponding to a bottom of the container portion; and a supply port that is provided in the casing to communicate with outside of the casing through an outer area outside of an overlapping area which overlaps the projecting portion in the container portion in a planar view of the fourth wall and discharge the liquid from the container portion. At least part of a second wall provided to face the projecting portion across a first liquid reservoir has optical transparency. |
| US09643421B2 |
Recording apparatus
There is provided a recording apparatus that can easily set a state in which liquid accommodation units are filled with a liquid for recording while suppressing increases in an installation area.A recording apparatus including a liquid ejecting head 16 that performs recording by ejecting ink onto sheets of paper P, a discharge unit 20 in which a discharge opening 25 that includes a discharge region at which the sheets of paper, on which recording was performed by the liquid ejecting head, are discharged, is formed, and liquid accommodation units 30 that are capable of accommodating the liquid that is supplied to the liquid ejecting head, in an apparatus main body 12, in which the liquid accommodation units are provided with injection openings through which it is possible to inject ink into the liquid accommodation units, which are provided in a positions that are below the discharge unit in a perpendicular direction (−Z direction) and overlaps with the discharge unit in the perpendicular direction. |
| US09643420B2 |
Liquid discharge apparatus and tube position correcting method
A liquid discharge apparatus includes a discharge portion capable of discharging a liquid, a carriage movable along scanning directions between a first position and a second position, a tube that is connected to the discharge portion and that supplies the liquid to the discharge portion, a frame provided at such a position as to be able to contact the tube, and a tube support portion that is provided between the frame and the carriage and that has a supporting surface capable of supporting the tube. The carriage includes an inclined portion that is inclined so as to move the tube toward the supporting surface when the carriage moves along the scanning directions while the tube is not supported by the supporting surface. |
| US09643419B2 |
Adaptor
An adaptor includes an adaptor main body capable of being mounted with respect to a liquid accommodation body mounting portion of a printer to which an ink cartridge configured to accommodate ink is mounted in an attachable or detachable manner; a memory cell MC that is updated by a control portion of the printer, and maintains information about whether or not the printing operation is possible in the printer; an electrical terminal that is used in communication between the memory cell and the printer; and an operation button that outputs an update signal that updates information about whether or not the printing operation is possible to information permitting the printing operation of the printer with respect to the memory cell, when the information about whether or not the printing operation is possible maintained in the memory cell does not permit the printing operation of the printer. |
| US09643418B2 |
Liquid discharging apparatus
A liquid discharging apparatus includes multiple nozzle rows, in which a plurality of nozzles capable of discharging liquid onto a medium are arranged, that are arranged in an intersection direction intersecting with a nozzles-arranged direction where the nozzles are arranged, a shielding portion that shields an area between the nozzle rows, and a collecting portion that collects mist which is attached to the shielding portion and is generated due to discharging of the liquid from the nozzles. |
| US09643417B2 |
Method for forming silicone-based cured film on ink discharge surface of nozzle plate for inkjet printer, and nozzle plate
A nozzle plate which exhibits excellent ink repellency and excellent durability to wiping, even when used with an ink that adheres readily to the nozzle plate is provided. A method for forming a silicone-based cured film on the ink discharge surface of a nozzle plate for an inkjet printer, the method comprising: (1) a step of preparing a condensation-type silicone composition containing at least one compound selected from the group consisting of bismuth compounds and cyclic amidine compounds, (2) a step of applying this condensation-type silicone composition to the ink discharge surface of the nozzle plate to form a coating film, and (3) a step of heating and curing this coating film. |
| US09643416B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus and liquid ejecting method
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a plurality of nozzles; a moving portion which moves the plurality of nozzles to the medium; and a control portion which controls the plurality of nozzles and the moving portion. The plurality of nozzles include a first-type nozzle group which records dots using a nozzle use rate which is less than a first threshold value; a second-type nozzle group which records dots using a nozzle use rate which is the first threshold value or more, and less than a second threshold value; and a third-type nozzle group which records dots using a nozzle use rate of the second threshold value or more. The control portion executes multipass recording in which recording of dots is completed using main scanning passes of N times, ejects the liquid in order of ejecting of the first-type nozzle group and the third-type nozzle group with respect to a first region, ejects the liquid using the second-type nozzle group with respect to a second region which is close to the first region, and ejects the liquid in order of ejecting of the third-type nozzle group and the first-type nozzle group with respect to a third region which is close to the second region, but is not close to the first region. |
| US09643410B2 |
Ink jet head having a plurality of drive circuits housed in a casing
An ink jet head includes an ejection unit including first nozzles arranged along a line, second nozzles arranged parallel to the first nozzles, a first actuator configured to cause ink to be ejected from the first nozzles, and a second actuator configured to cause ink to be ejected from the second nozzles, a first drive circuit configured to drive the first actuator, a second drive circuit configured to drive the second actuator, and a casing. The casing has a first space on a first side of the casing and a second space on a second side of the casing that is opposite to the first side. The first drive circuit is housed in the first space and the second drive circuit is housed in the second space. |
| US09643403B2 |
Printing system
An intermediate transfer member (ITM) for use in a printing system to transport an ink image from an image forming station to an impression station for transfer of the ink image from the ITM onto a printing substrate, wherein the ITM is an endless flexible belt of substantially uniform width which, during use, passes over drive and guide rollers and is guided through at least the image forming station by means of guide channels that receive formations provided on both lateral edges of the belt, wherein the formations on a first edge differ from the formations on the second edge by being configured for providing the elasticity desired to maintain the belt taut when the belt is guided through their respective lateral channels. |
| US09643401B2 |
Credential production device transfer ribbon accumulator
A credential production device includes a printing device, a laminating device, a transfer ribbon accumulator, a processing assembly, and a frame. The printing device is configured to print an image to the transfer ribbon. The laminating device is configured to transfer printed images from the transfer ribbon to a substrate. The transfer ribbon accumulator adjusts a length of a portion of a ribbon path, along which the transfer ribbon is routed, in response to different transfer ribbon feed rates. The processing assembly supports the transfer ribbon, at least a portion of the printing device or a portion of the laminating device, and at least a first portion of the transfer ribbon accumulator. The frame supports the second portion of the transfer ribbon accumulator. The processing assembly and the frame are configured to move relative to each other between first and second positions. |
| US09643398B1 |
Variable data and direct marking of print media with high viscosity materials
An improved apparatus and method for printing directly onto Infra-Red (IR) transparent material (print media) such as Mylar using a method that is capable of using medium to high viscosity materials such as those needed for printed electronics. The proposed method would be able to print with variable data/imaging. A proposed method uses an IR receptor of which a print media is placed or passed over. Prior to irradiation the print media is coated with a sub-micron layer of dampening solution such as silicone oil that is then selectively evaporated off via a laser imaging device which passes IR energy thorough the dampening solution, print media and onto the receptor to evaporate dampening solution in areas that will be inked. |
| US09643396B2 |
Peeling device, peeling system and peeling method
A peeling device which peels a superposed substrate obtained by bonding a first substrate and a second substrate together, from one end portion of the superposed substrate toward the other end portion thereof, includes a first holding unit configured to hold the first substrate of the superposed substrate, a second holding unit configured to hold the second substrate of the superposed substrate, and a moving unit configured to move the first holding unit away from the second holding unit. The moving unit is configured to move in at least a peeling direction of the superposed substrate. |
| US09643394B2 |
Oblique angle micromachining of fluidic structures
An extrusion device has a stack of at least two layers, the stack including an outlet, an inlet for a first material, and a feed channel for the first material arranged to fluidically connect to the inlet for the first material, the feed channel having a sloped end. A method of manufacturing an extrusion device includes forming an outlet, an inlet for a first material and a feed channel for the first material having a sloped end in a stack of layers, aligning the stack of layers to fluidically connect the feed channel for the first material with the inlet for the first material and to fluidically connect the inlet for the first material with the outlet, and bonding the layers together. |
| US09643392B2 |
Septumization of honeycomb sandwiches
An acoustic liner having a honeycomb core is fabricated by forming septa in a sheet of material, and assembling the sheet of material and the core. During the assembly process, the septa are respectively inserted as a group into cells of the core. |
| US09643387B2 |
Stretched laminate, method of manufacturing thin polarizer, thin polarizer manufactured by the method, and polarizing plate including the thin polarizer
Provided is a stretched laminate for manufacturing a thin polarizer while increasing the degree of orientation of a polyvinyl alcohol-iodine complex without problems such as breakage. In addition, there are provided a method of manufacturing a thin polarizer having superior optical characteristics by using the stretched laminate, a thin polarizer manufactured by the method, and a polarizing plate including the thin polarizer. |
| US09643383B2 |
Car internet sheet using hygiene product and manufacturing method thereof
Disclosed are a car interior sheet manufactured by using a defective product (defective hygiene product) among hygiene products such as tissues or diapers including wet-strength paper made of pulp including plastic or super absorbent polymer (SAP). The car interior sheet is manufactured by attaching surface layers such as a nonwoven fabric to both surfaces of a base layer thereof including 30-50 weight % of a pulverized material, 5-15 weight % of additives, and 30-50 weight % of thermoplastic resin. The car interior sheet represents a low manufacturing cost, and does not generate environmental hazardous materials. The car interior sheet represents superior impact resistance at high and low temperatures, has a superior moisture absorption rate due to the SAP, so that the car interior sheet is rapidly dried after the moisture has been absorbed. |
| US09643380B2 |
Carbon fibre reinforced composite material and production method thereof
A carbon fiber reinforced composite material including at least two carbon fiber fabrics and a thermoplastic resin, wherein each of the at least two carbon fiber fabrics is formed of an opened yarn obtained by opening a carbon fiber bundle, and the thermoplastic resin is impregnated with the at least two carbon fiber fabrics in a solidified state such that the carbon fiber reinforced composite material is formed integrally as a whole. Also disclosed is a method for producing the carbon fiber reinforced composite material. |
| US09643377B2 |
Floor plank with foam core
The floor member has a closed-cell foam core that constitutes approximately 50% of the overall thickness of the floor member. All constituents of the floor member, including a design layer, wear layer and resilient foam plastic underlayer, are highly water resistant and essentially water repellant. The closed-cell foam core is relatively lightweight and the floor member is also relatively lightweight compared to equally dimensioned floor planks formed exclusively of solid laminated plastic materials or wood-based laminated materials. The floor member has edge connecting means for convenient floating floor installation without the need to adhere the floor member to a floor base. The floor member is also easy to handle to permit a do-it-yourselfer to install a floor covering with the floor member. |
| US09643376B2 |
Multi-ply disintegratable absorbent sheet, associated roll and associated manufacturing process
A process for manufacturing multi-ply disintegratable absorbent sheets is provided. Each said sheet includes at least five plies including two exterior plies and at least three interior plies. Each of at least three of the plies in the sheet is in at least one group of plies and each of the at least three plies is joined to another ply by mechanical deformation. |
| US09643374B2 |
Device and method for processing flat products
The device, which serves for processing flat products, particularly separated sheets of paper, includes a device body that is holding a tool, with which the flat products can be processed. The inventive device further includes a tool bearing that is connected to the device body and that includes at least one bearing drive unit, a control unit controlling the bearing drive unit, a tool drive unit and a modular tool unit that includes said tool and that can be actuated by the tool drive unit when it is coupled to the tool drive unit, wherein the modular tool unit is releasably held by the tool bearing and is movable by the bearing drive unit towards the tool drive unit under the control of the control unit until it is coupled with the tool drive unit. |
| US09643371B2 |
Method for roll-bending a profile, profile, method for manufacturing bent profile workpieces, bent profile workpiece, device for roll-bending a profile, and extrusion and roll-bending line
The invention relates to a method for roll-bending a profile which comprises at least one cross-sectional region which is formed from a plastics material which is shaped by extrusion. A first and a second bending roller set are provided, each including bending rollers which are arranged in such a way that a passage, which enables guiding of the profile, is formed between the bending rollers of each of the bending roller sets. The profile is bent about a first bending axis and about a second bending axis which is non-parallel thereto, the translations and rotations of the second bending roller set being brought about simultaneously at least at times and/or mutually offset in time in a predetermined sequence. |
| US09643362B2 |
Full color three-dimensional object fabrication
The subject disclosure is directed towards technology managing three-dimensional object fabrication in full color. In order to transform the object's model into an instruction set for a fabrication device, a fabrication manager computes color values corresponding to geometry within a later of the object's model. After determining an amount of each colored material to deposit, the fabrication manager generates coordinated instructions configured to deposit a combination of colored materials according to the geometry and efficiently transitioning between colored materials during object fabrication. |
| US09643360B2 |
Self-hardening material and process for layerwise formation of models
The invention relates to a self-hardening material for layerwise construction of three-dimensional components, whereby the material comprises at least one particulate material and a separately applied bonding agent for bonding the particulate material, and has a setting time which is at least several times as long as the application time of a particulate layer. |
| US09643356B2 |
Joint structure and joint structure manufacturing method
The present invention provides a joint structure having: a first panel comprising a first material; a second panel comprising a metal material different from the first material; a rivet having a head portion that is placed in contact with the first panel, a shaft portion that is passed through the first panel, and a joint portion that is disposed on the shaft portion side and is in contact with and joined by welding to the second panel; and a sandwiching portion that is disposed at the rivet and sandwiches between itself and the head portion the first panel from the second panel side. |
| US09643355B2 |
Dental sensor holder and method of holding a dental sensor
A dental sensor holder including a loop of material and an adjustable bond. The adjustable bond portion is located on the inside of the loop which may selectively be engaged to join adjacent portions of the loop into a functional bitewing. |
| US09643351B2 |
Injection molding machines and methods for accounting for changes in material properties during injection molding runs
A method and a machine account for changes in material properties of molten plastic material during an injection run. A change in a control signal is calculated by a controller during the injection molding run. If the change in the control signal indicates a change in material flowability, the controller alters a target injection pressure to ensure that molten plastic material completely fills and packs a mold cavity to prevent part flaws such as short shots or flashing. |
| US09643350B2 |
Wet-out prevent method using laminate for injection molding process
A light guide system includes a light guide and a carrier substrate having a barrier layer disposed therebetween. The barrier layer is introduced during a dual injection process to provide a permeable barrier between a first resin, used to form the light guide, and a second resin used to form the carrier substrate. The barrier layer allows for the first and second resins to bond, while acting as a wet-out inhibitor between the resins. The molded dual injection light guide system of the present invention provides for a unitary light guide and carrier substrate that has been molded with a barrier layer such that wetting out of a surface of the light guide is prevented along with the deleterious effects wetted out surfaces have on light transmission. |
| US09643346B2 |
Method and device for producing a seamless circumferentially closed flexible embossing tape and embossing tape
Disclosed is a method for producing substantially seamless, circumferentially closed flexible embossing or printing tapes (2), wherein a free-flow material is fed into an annular mold space (14) defining the profile of the tape (2), said mold (1) comprising an external sidewall (6), delimiting the external radial extent of an annular space (14), and a core (12), delimiting the internal radial extent of the annular space (14). A device for carrying out such a method is also disclosed. |
| US09643336B1 |
Vertically moving horizontal mixer assembly with high efficiency blade and stator design
A vertically moving horizontal mixer assembly which includes a tank having an axis. A stator and blade support assembly is movable parallel to the tank axis. At least one rotatable blade substantially perpendicular to the tank axis is moveable parallel to the tank axis. The rotating blade may be a flat circular disk with raised tooth edges perpendicular to the disk around the circumference of the blade. An optional stator also directs and encourages movement and mixing of solids with liquids. |
| US09643335B2 |
Concrete discharge boot accessory device and method of use thereof
A cabling system and accessory for attachment to the rubber boot surrounding the metal chute area of either a front or rear loader concrete truck for improving and enhancing the function and purpose of the rubber boot and chute area of a ready mix concrete truck, and for increasing the safety, health, and environmental aspects of cleaning thereof, wherein physical exertion and risk of injury to the truck operator is minimized, wherein the quantity of water utilized for cleaning is reduced, wherein the overall cleanliness of the truck is improved, and wherein the functional life span of the boot, chute, mechanical parts, and the truck itself is increased. |
| US09643333B2 |
Manual wood splitting assistance apparatus
A log section splitting assistance apparatus comprises a base with radially arranged fingers, each of which is joined to the base at an axle, each axle having an axis of rotation which is horizontally oriented and tangential to the base. The fingers extend and retract through use of a lever arm. A user places a log section on the base, between the fingers. The user engages the lever arm to hold the log section on the base with the fingers. The user splits the log section. The fingers retain the split pieces on the base in a cluster until the pieces can be removed. The base and fingers may be rotated by foot, allowing the log section to be conveniently rotated as it is split. The user avoids bending; the splitting process proceeds quickly. The apparatus is robust and easy to use. |
| US09643328B2 |
Food slicing guide
A food slicing guide for use with a slicing tool that slices a plurality of food items comprises a first body member including a first guide surface, a first recessed surface that is recessed relative to the first guide surface, and a food positioning system; and a second body member including a second guide surface and a second recessed surface that is recessed relative to the second guide surface. The first recessed surface is adapted to retain the plurality of food items. The food positioning system adjusts the position of the plurality of food items relative to the first guide surface. The second guide surface is movably positionable adjacent to the first guide surface to define a slicing gap. The slicing tool is movable within the slicing gap to slice the plurality of food items with a single slice of the slicing tool. |
| US09643327B2 |
Wet shaving razor
A combination shaving and trimming device includes a powered trimmer and a wet-shaving razor attachment adapted for mounting over the trimmer. The wet shaving razor attachment includes a connecting member for mounting over the trimmer for wet shaving using the trimmer as the handle. A grip insert is provided that removably attaches to the connecting member for wet shaving independent of the trimmer. The combination shaving and trimming device and the grip insert include alignment guides providing one way attachment of the connecting member to the trimmer as well as one way attachment of the grip insert to the connecting member. |
| US09643325B2 |
System for positioning on a patient an observation and/or intervention device
The present invention relates to a system for positioning with respect to a patient's body an observation and/or intervention device having a portion penetrating into the patient's body comprising a base disposed over the patient's body; a means for supporting the device formed of a first portion movably assembled on the base according to a connection with one degree of freedom, and of a second portion movably assembled on the first portion according to a connection with one degree of freedom and connected to the device; and means for actuating the first portion with respect to the base, and the second portion with respect to the first portion, in which the base surrounds at a distance at least partially the device, said device being detachably connected to the second portion to enable removal of the positioning system while leaving in place the device. |
| US09643323B2 |
Robot hand
Provided is a robot hand that is capable of gripping an object and manipulating the gripped object in a manner similar to that of a human hand, and that makes it possible to reduce the number of actuators. This robot hand is provided with: a first actuator (31) that imparts driving force to a first finger link (11) so that the first finger link (11) pivots relative to a base section (1); and a second actuator (32) that imparts driving force to at least one of a second finger link (12) and a third finger link (13) so that the second finger link (12) pivots relative to the first finger link (11) and the third finger link (13) pivots relative to the second finger link (12). |
| US09643322B2 |
Control method for a balancing lifting gear and balancing lifting gear
A control method for a balancing lifting gear which includes a lifting motor that can be actuated by a controller and uses a control handle with a force sensor to lift and lower a load-supporting device. In a “Balance” operating mode, the load-supporting device, with or without a picked-up load, is raised or lowered by the controller in response to a force applied by an operator. In order to ensure disturbance-free handling of a load when removing or attaching a load, a “Pick-up” operating mode or an “Assemble” operating mode is selected, in which the load-supporting device is moved independently without the influence of the force of the operator by the controller in the lifting or lowering direction in dependence upon the signals determined by the force sensor. A balancing lifting gear which operates in accordance with the aforementioned control method is also disclosed. |
| US09643318B2 |
Teleoperation of machines having at least one actuated mechanism
A machine that has at least one actuated mechanism is remotely located from a control station. A two way real-time communication link connects the machine location with the control station. An interface at the control station allows an operator to select one or more virtual constraints on operation of the machine when the machine is performing a predetermined function. The virtual constraints are transmitted over the two way real-time communication link to the machine location. The machine has predetermined safety limits that are stored in a controlling device at the machine location. The stored predetermined safety limits are extracted and automatically mapped to the control station using the two way real-time communication link. The controlling device maps the predetermined safety limits to the virtual constraints. |
| US09643317B2 |
Robot system controlling method, program, recording medium, robot system, and diagnosis apparatus
A method of controlling a robot system including an articulated robot and a control device is provided. The articulated robot includes links connected by joints, motors configured to drive the joints respectively, and detection devices configured to detect rotation amounts of the joints respectively. The control device controls the motors. The method includes the steps of, by the control device, recording movement information of the joints based on outputs of the detection devices; when detecting an abnormality in the operation of the articulated robot, determining presence or absence of a failure in the articulated robot based on the movement information recorded in at least a period from before detection of the abnormality until detection of the abnormality; and specifying a failure portion of the articulated robot if it is determined that there is a failure in the articulated robot in the step of determining. |
| US09643313B2 |
Apparatus for automated maintenance of aircraft structural elements
Automated apparatus for performing maintenance functions on airfoil-shaped bodies having short chord lengths, the apparatus being movable in a spanwise direction along the airfoil-shaped body. In accordance with various embodiments, the apparatus comprises a blade crawler capable of supporting any one of a plurality of end effectors for performing a set of maintenance functions on an airfoil-shaped body, such as a blade component. Included in these functions are multiple options for nondestructive inspection, drilling, grinding, fastening, appliqué application, scarfing, ply mapping, depainting, cleaning, and painting devices that are attached as the end effector for the blade crawler. As a whole, the blade crawler reduces maintenance time, labor hours and human errors when robotic maintenance functions are performed on blade components. |
| US09643310B2 |
Automatic lubrication system with detune
Lubrication system includes a drive fluid valve member and a detune valve member. The drive fluid valve member is movable from a first to a second position in response to drive fluid pressure to reduce the volume of a variable volume lubricant charge chamber. The detune valve member is movable from a first to a second position in response to lubricant pressure within the lubricant charge chamber, and is adapted to permit fluid communication between inlet and bypass fluid passages in its the first position and to disengage the fluid connection in its second position. |
| US09643308B2 |
Stapler with arrangement for tensioning an elastic member forming part of the stapler
Stapler (1) for driving staples (4) into a workpiece (6), comprising a body (2), an elastic member (7) connected to a driver (9) and an articulated arrangement (12) for tensioning of the member (7) comprising a lever (13) with a long arm (15) and a short arm (16) coupled rotatably to the body by a first coupling shaft (14), an articulated arm (17) coupled rotatably to the body by a second coupling shaft (18) and connected to the member (7) in a force-influencing manner, an intermediate joint (19) with a third coupling shaft (20) assigned rotatably to the short arm (16) at a first distance (a) from the first coupling shaft and assigned rotatably to the articulated arm (17) with a fourth coupling shaft (21) at a second distance (b) from the third coupling shaft (20), the first distance has the distance line (a) and the second distance has the distance line (β), which form the angle (γ) between themselves, the member (7) is tensioned in that the lever (13) is rotated (N) about coupling shaft (14) from a starting position to an end position, due to which the lever via the intermediate joint causes the articulated arm to rotate (R) about the coupling shaft and tension the member (7) by guiding this from a first neutral untensioned position to a second tensioned position, wherein the first distance (a) is 1.2-1.6 times greater than the second distance (b). |
| US09643294B2 |
Buffing pad and methods of making and using the same
A buffing pad having a front surface portion, a moisture barrier upon which the front surface is disposed, a compressible foam portion disposed below the moisture barrier, and a rear surface. The front surface portion has a plurality of indentations formed by RF welding and the rear surface has an attachment portion capable of attaching the buffing pad to a power tool. Methods of manufacturing and using a buffing pad. |
| US09643292B2 |
Single and tandem honing devices
A honing tool or device having a generally cylindrical body includes a plurality of axially extending webs to which are attached a like plurality of curved honing blades. A portion of the external surface of each blade remote from the attachment point includes an abrasive coating. The radius of curvature of the portion of the blades including the abrasive coating is nominally the same as the radius of the desired finish diameter of the bore. Resilient dampers are disposed behind the blades in the body to dampen vibrations. An additional plurality of webs may be disposed behind the blades to limit their inward translation. A double or tandem honing device includes a pair of the just described honing tools which are arranged in axially spaced apart relationship on a common shaft. |
| US09643291B2 |
Polishing method
A polishing method comprising: arranging a polishing tool and a workpiece on lower and upper shaft sides of a polishing device, respectively, the polishing tool including: a polishing surface having a spherical zone shape; and a hole that is provided inside the polishing surface and concentric with an outer edge of the polishing surface around a rotation axis on a projection plane orthogonal to the rotation axis, a ratio of an outer diameter of the polishing surface to an inner diameter of the polishing surface being greater than 1.0 and 6.0 or less; and swinging the polishing tool relative to a reference point while rotating the polishing tool around the rotation axis. The reference point is positioned where a straight line, which passes through a center of the workpiece and intersects with the rotation axis, passes through a center of a spherical zone of the polishing surface in width direction. |
| US09643290B1 |
Line following power tool
An apparatus for use with a machine tool that comprises a base plate with a cut hole; at least one drive motor attached to the base plate; at least one wheel mechanically attached to the at least one drive motor; a microprocessor electrically connected to the at least one drive motor, the microprocessor having a switch input and memory, the memory comprising parameters corresponding to the shape and position of a cut area and a cut point within the cut hole; a switch electrically connected to the switch input; and an optical sensor having an optical axis and a field of view, the optical sensor spaced a distance from the base plate between the first end and the cut hole and electrically connected to the microprocessor, the optical sensor oriented so that the cut hole is within the field of view. |
| US09643287B2 |
Method and production facility for manufacturing a wind turbine blade
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a wind turbine blade in a production facility. The method comprises the steps of positioning a first overhung gantry to extend transversely over an elongated first mold part for manufacturing one of a first part and a second part of the blade, performing a first working action at the first mold part with a first tool mounted on the first overhung gantry, moving the first overhung gantry from the first mold part to an elongated second mold part for manufacturing the other of the first and the second part of the blade, positioning the first overhung gantry to extend transversely over the second mold part, and performing a second working action at the second mold part by means of the first tool or a second tool mounted on the first overhung gantry. |
| US09643280B2 |
Laser processing apparatus
A laser processing apparatus includes: a laser generator that generates a laser beam, a diffractive optical element that divides the laser beam generated by the laser generator into a plurality of sub-laser beams, and a beam gap adjustor that adjusts a gap between neighboring ones of the plurality of sub-laser beams. Therefore, by installing a diffractive optical element that divides a laser beam that is generated by the laser generator into the plurality of sub-laser beams and a beam gap adjustor to adjust a gap between a plurality of sub-laser beams, the laser processing apparatus can form a processing pattern of various resolutions in a shadow mask while improving a processing speed of the shadow mask. |
| US09643278B2 |
Hose assembly and coupling device for a welding device
A hose assembly includes a plurality of lines for supplying a welding torch with operating media, such as welding current, welding wire, protective gas and/or control signals. The lines include a coolant line for feeding cooling medium of a coolant source to a welding torch. The hose assembly has a coupling element for detachably connecting to a welding unit or to a welding torch. A further coupling element for the coolant line is integrated in the coupling element. The coupling and decoupling direction of the further coupling element is orientated transverse to the longitudinal axis of the hose assembly. The coupling elements can each be coupled and decoupled independently from each other. A plug element is used in the coupling element. The coolant line has a plug connection. |
| US09643277B2 |
Robot
A robot according to an embodiment includes a flange, a wrist arm, a forearm, a feeder, and a power cable. The flange configured so that a welding torch is attached thereto and configured to rotate about a T axis. The wrist arm configured to rotate about a B axis substantially perpendicular to the T axis and configured to support the flange. The forearm configured to support the wrist arm. The feeder attached to a position between a base end and a tip end of the forearm and configured to feed a welding wire. The power cable is a supply route of electricity to the welding torch and is provided separately from a feeding route of the welding wire. |
| US09643273B2 |
Systems and methods for configuring a cutting or welding delivery device
A system is provided for configuring a delivery device of a cutting or welding apparatus. The system includes a determination module and a mobile computing device. The determination module is configured to determine at least one desired component of the delivery device or a value for at least one operating parameter of the cutting or welding apparatus. The mobile computing device includes a receiver, a reader and a processor. The receiver is configured to receive information from the determination module including at least one of i) identification of the desired component or ii) the value of the operating parameter. The reader is configured to read an element associated with a selected component, where the element provides indicia of at least one characteristic of the selected component. The processor is configure to approve the selected component for assembly into the delivery device. |
| US09643271B2 |
Method for making support structure for probing device
A method for making a support structure for a probing device includes a step of providing a substrate having first internal conductive lines, a carrier having second internal conductive lines and a thickness less than 2 mm for packaging an integrated circuit chip, solder balls, and photoresist support blocks made by lithography in a way that the solder balls and the photoresist support blocks are disposed between the substrate and the carrier, the photoresist support blocks separately arranged from each other, and at least one of the photoresist support blocks is disposed between two adjacent solder balls. The method further includes a step of electrically connecting the first internal conductive lines with the second internal conductive lines respectively by soldering the carrier and the substrate with the solder balls by reflow soldering. |
| US09643268B2 |
Device and method for partial decoating and/or machining of material from a workpiece
The present invention relates to a device for partial decoating and/or machining removal of a steel sheet coated with a metal coating and/or provided with a parasitic layer, wherein the device has a machining tool in the form of a scraping roller and wherein the scraping roller comprises a cutting edge for scraping the metal coating and/or parasitic layer off the steel-sheet surface, and wherein furthermore the scraping roller is rotatable about a rotation axis perpendicular to a main plane of extent of the steel sheet, the scraping roller has a circumferential face which is concentric with the rotation axis and in which at least one circumferential groove is formed, the groove has two lateral groove boundary faces that originate from the groove bottom face, wherein at least one of the two groove boundary faces has the cutting edge and the device is configured such that during decoating and/or machining removal, the at least one cutting edge scrapes over the steel-sheet edge in a manner parallel to the main plane of extent of the steel sheet. |
| US09643265B2 |
Method and tool for producing a surface of predetermined roughness
For producing a cylindrical surface that has a surface structure of predetermined geometry suitable for application of material by thermal spraying, a geometrically predetermined groove structure of minimal depth and width is introduced into the surface by a tool embodied as a follow-on tool in that a groove cross-section is processed successively to a final size. In order for the surface to be producible in mass production with constant quality, the groove structure is worked in such that first a base groove is introduced with a groove bottom width that is smaller than the groove bottom width of the finished groove. Subsequently, at least one flank of the base groove is processed for producing an undercut groove profile by a non-cutting action or cutting action wherein the introduced groove structure is deformed in such a way that the groove openings are constricted by upsetting deformations of material. |
| US09643260B2 |
Systems and methods for forming an opening in a stack
One aspect of the disclosure relates to a cutting tool for forming a final opening in a stack that includes at least two layers and a pilot opening having a pilot-opening dimension and extending through at least one of the at least two layers. The cutting tool includes a shank. The cutting tool also includes a first portion including at least one of a first coating or the first coating and a second coating, wherein the first coating at least partially covers the first portion. The cutting tool also includes a second portion between the shank and the first portion, wherein the second portion includes the second coating, and wherein the second coating at least partially covers the second portion. |
| US09643259B2 |
Adjustable indexable drill and modular system and holder
An adjustable drill has a drill body having a face surface with a directional feature provided therewith. At least one cartridge is mounted adjacent the face surface and selectively slidable along the directional feature to provide adjustment. At least one insert is releasably affixed in an insert pocket provided in the cartridge. In further examples, the adjustable drill may have a central cutting system in combination with the adjustable cartridge type system, wherein the central cutting system may be modular. There may also be provided a modular type of holder arrangement to provide flexibility to adapt the system for various applications. |
| US09643253B2 |
Method and device for recovering hydrogen pulverized powder of raw-material alloy for rare-earth magnet
A method and a device for recovering hydrogen pulverized powder of a raw-material alloy for rare-earth magnets capable of lowering the possibility that hydrogen pulverized powder remains in a recovery chamber; therefore, enhancing magnetic properties by reducing an oxygen content of an obtained rare-earth magnet. A processing container 50 is carried into a recovery chamber 40 from a processing chamber after inert gas is introduced into the recovery chamber 40. The raw-material alloy for rare-earth magnets in the processing container 50 is discharged into the recovery chamber 40 after the pressure in the recovery chamber 40 is reduced Thereafter, inert gas is introduced into the recovery chamber 40, and the raw-material alloy for rare-earth magnets is recovered into the recovery container 50 after a pressure in the recovery chamber 40 is set to a predetermined pressure by inert gas. |
| US09643246B2 |
Reverse casting process
The teachings provide a fill tube assembly for a casting mold and methods of using the assembly. The fill tube assembly includes a fill tube having a tubular member with a receiving end, a mold-engaging end and an intermediate portion. The mold-engaging end has a tapered flange radially extending therefrom, the remainder of the tubular member has a substantially, uniform cross-section. A clamping assembly is structured to maintain a substantially leakproof seal at the fill tube, casting mold interface while accommodating dimensional variations. The clamping assembly includes a gasket, a load ring, a clamping plate and a pre-load gap between the clamping plate and the casting mold and optionally includes a dimensional compensating ring. When tightened, the clamping plate biases the load ring against the flange thereby distributing a uniform load against the casting mold, compressing the gasket therebetween while narrowing the pre-load gap to accommodate dimensional variations. |
| US09643245B2 |
Casting valve with a post-compression piston
A method for a die casting with a casting device which includes a casting valve with a valve piston and a post-compression piston configured to provide a post-compression. The method includes providing a casting valve in a closed position and a mold cavity which is cleaned and prepared for a mold filling process, opening the casting valve for a casting, filling the casting valve with a melt, closing the casting valve after the filling with the melt, cooling the casting valve and the melt, and removing a cast part. A post-compression is provided to the melt during the cooling by the post-compression piston. |
| US09643244B2 |
Layer-by layer construction with bulk metallic glasses
Described herein is a method of selectively depositing molten bulk metallic glass (BMG). In one embodiment, a continuous stream or discrete droplets of molten BMG is deposited to selected positions. The deposition can be repeated as needed layer by layer. One or more layers of non-BMG can be used as needed. |