| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09689554B1 |
Asymmetric area lighting lens
A lens for distributing light from a light emitter in a desired asymmetric illumination profile includes a lens body having an input side and an output side. The input side receives light from an emitter, and the output side includes primary refractive surface, total internal reflection surfaces, and a secondary refractive surface associated with the total internal refection surfaces. A primary emission axis associated with the emitter is defined through the lens body, and a transverse reference plane is positioned parallel to the primary emission axis. A desired illumination region is located on a first side of the reference plane, and a desired dark region is located on a second side of the reference plane. The primary refractive surface, the total internal reflection surfaces and the secondary refractive surface direct a substantial portion of the light from the emitter to the desired illumination region. |
| US09689551B2 |
Display device with movement elements for obtaining a high resolution and/or a 3D effect
A display device (A) for the display of image information, which consists of at least one or a plurality of picture elements and may be modified by means of a frame rate (R), having at least one light source (L) for the generation of a picture element of the image information, characterized in that there are provided picture element modification means (VM) having movement elements (BR, BV, LI, L), which are movably arranged with at least the frame rate (R) in the display device (A) and which are adapted to selectively deflect and/or cover the light emitted by the at least one light source (L) for the viewer (LA, RA) of the display device (A) in order to generate per light source (L) of the display device (A) at least twice the number of picture elements as extension picture elements (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) for the display of the image information, wherein the light emitted by the at least one light source (L) is modified with at least twice the frame rate (R) as light source frequency (fL). |
| US09689549B2 |
Vehicle headlight device
A vehicle headlight device 100 includes a light source 11, a Dove prism 40, and a rotation mechanism 50. The light source 11 emits light. The Dove prism 40 changes a propagation direction of light received at an incidence surface 401 to bring the light to a reflecting surface 402, and changes a propagation direction of light reflected at the reflecting surface 402 to output the light from an exit surface 403. The rotation mechanism 50 rotatably supports the Dove prism 40 about a line which passes through the incidence surface 401 and the exit surface 403 as an axis of rotation R, and rotates the Dove prism 40 in a direction opposite to a bank direction of a vehicle body in accordance with a bank angle k of the vehicle body. |
| US09689547B2 |
Vehicle lamp unit including lens regions having different light scattering properties
A projection lens is disposed so that light emitted from a light source passes the projection lens. A shade is disposed in rear of the projection lens so as to block a part of the light emitted from the light source. The projection lens includes a first region and a second region. The first region has a first light scattering property. The second region has a second light scattering property lower than the first light scattering property. The shade and the projection lens are disposed so that a part of light projecting an edge of the shade as a peripheral edge of a light distribution pattern passes through the first region and another part of the light projecting the edge of the shade passes through the second region. |
| US09689543B1 |
Ferro fluid lamp
A novelty lamp, which includes a transparent or translucent container with a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface of the container is mounted in a base member. Two substances are received in the container, one of which is ferro fluid. The ferro fluid has a higher relative density at room temperature and is immiscible with the other substance. Upon application of heat, which is supplied by a light bulb mounted within the base member, globules of the substance with the initially higher relative density become less dense, rise in the other substance and flow around the container. As the globules rise toward the top surface of the container they cool, become denser and drop back down toward the bottom surface of the container. Because the ferro fluid is a magnetic liquid, magnets can manipulate it, while it changes density and flows in the container. |
| US09689541B2 |
Hanger bar for recessed luminaires with integral nail
A hanger bar assembly for a recessed luminaire is disclosed. The hanger bar assembly includes a first hanger bar member having a first attachment structure disposed on an end thereof, and a second hanger bar member having a second attachment structure disposed on an end thereof, the second hanger bar member being adjacent to the first hanger bar member. The first and the second attachment structures each include a first wall having a first fastener aperture and a second wall having a second fastener aperture, the first and second fastener apertures being formed about a common central longitudinal axis. |
| US09689539B2 |
LED fluorescent lamp
The invention discloses an LED fluorescent lamp, comprising a base plate, an end cap, an aluminum profile, a light diffusing plate, a light guide plate component, a lamp shade, a power unit and a lamp panel component as well as an LED lamp bead on the lamp panel component; first slots are arranged on two left side walls of the aluminum profile; the light guide plate can rotationally sleeved in the first slots; the top of the lamp shade is provided with a holding groove, at the bottom of which a hollowed-out part is hollowed out; the light diffusing plate is fixed in the holding groove and provided with many stripes on the surface; the stripes are crossed to form diamond-shaped stripes; and two sides of the lamp shade are arcs. The invention has the advantages of high thermal radiation effect, soft light and better light-emitting angle. |
| US09689538B2 |
Electronic candle having tilt sensor and blow sensors
An electronic candle includes a housing, an LED light source, a battery, and one or more sensors to detect a blow of air or a tilt of the electronic candle. The electronic candle further includes a microprocessor that is coupled to the LED light source, to the blow sensor and to the tilt sensor. The microprocessor is programmed to control illumination produced by the LED light source, to receive signals indicative of the detection of a blow, and to detect a tilt of the electronic candle. |
| US09689537B2 |
Light-emitting device, illumination light source, and illumination device
A light-emitting device includes: a substrate; a plurality of light-emitting elements arranged in an annular line on a main surface of the substrate; a sealing member which is annularly formed along the line of the plurality of light-emitting elements and seals the plurality of light-emitting elements; and a power supply part disposed on the main surface of the substrate and electrically connected to the plurality of light-emitting elements. The power supply part is located in an inner region interior to the sealing member formed in an annular shape. |
| US09689536B2 |
LED tube lamp
An LED tube lamp is disclosed. An installation detection circuit is configured in the LED tube lamp configured to receive an external driving signal. The installation detection circuit is configured to detect during one or more pulse signals whether the LED tube lamp is properly installed on a lamp socket, based on detecting a signal generated from the external driving signal. The installation detection circuit includes a switch circuit coupled to the pulse generating circuit, wherein the one or more pulse signals control turning on and off of the switch circuit. The installation detection circuit is further configured to: when it is detected during one or more pulse signals that the LED tube lamp is not properly installed on the lamp socket, control the switch circuit to remain in an off state to cause a power loop of the LED tube lamp to be open; and when it is detected during one or more pulse signals that the LED tube lamp is properly installed on the lamp socket, control the switch circuit to remain in a conducting state to cause the power loop of the LED tube lamp to maintain a conducting state. |
| US09689535B1 |
LED lightbulb minimizing LEDs for uniform light distribution
An apparatus comprising a base, a heat sink, a plurality of thermal elements, and a plurality of LED elements. The base may be configured to attach to a screw in light socket. The heat sink may be connected to the base. The plurality of thermal mounts may project from the heat sink. The thermal mounts may be electrically connected to the base and thermally connected to the heat sink. The plurality of LED elements may be connected to the thermal mounts. The LED elements may form a pattern about a central axis to project light evenly from the apparatus. |
| US09689530B2 |
Method of dosing lubricant grease with a lubricant dispenser
The invention relates to a method of dosing lubricating grease with a lubricant dispenser (1), comprising a lubricant cartridge (3) filled with lubricating grease (2) and holding a plunger (4) for expelling the lubricating grease (2), a spindle (6) driven by a direct-current drive motor (5) for moving the plunger (4), a power supply (7), a controller (8) for operating the motor (5) with a microcontroller (9), and a device (10) for interrupting the motor current flowing through the motor (5). The motor (5) is started up by the controller (8) in adjustable time intervals and a dose of dispensed agent is expressed from the cartridge (3) through a plunger motion with a predetermined plunger stroke. The motor current and the motor voltage are measured during motor operation, and the motor runtime, and the plunger stroke is calculated with the current and voltage measured values and at least one motor characteristic. The motor current is interrupted when the motor operating time reaches the calculated motor runtime. |
| US09689526B2 |
Housing with support assembly
A housing includes a housing body, and at least two support assemblies mounted on a side of the housing body and spaced from each other. Each support assembly includes a first rotating member rotatably mounted on the same side of the housing body, and a second rotating member rotatably mounted on the first rotating member. A rotating shaft of the second rotating member is not parallel to the rotating shaft of the first rotating member. An angle between the housing body and the second rotating member can be changed via rotating the second rotating member. |
| US09689525B2 |
Removable tripod foot with securement
Installation of a removable tripod foot is facilitated by a cross-axis aperture in the foot and loosening of the threaded connection of the foot and the tripod's leg is resisted by a resilient element engaging interfacing surfaces of the foot and the leg. |
| US09689523B2 |
Foldable mobile electronic device stand
A mobile electronic device stand has at least two interconnected elements, each element being elongated in form along a longitudinal axis. The interconnection includes at least a pair of adjacent interfacing end surfaces connected so as to be rotatable about an axis between the end surfaces from an iconic elongated configuration of the stand to a folded configuration of the stand. In the folded configuration of the stand, the elements are fixable in a setting position to resist rotation with respect to a support surface when the stand is functionally attached to a mobile electronic device and disposed in a manner to support the mobile electronic device in a selected orientation with respect to the support surface. |
| US09689518B2 |
Retaining ring for pressure vessel connection
A split retaining ring for a connection assembly adapted for connecting an instrument or other device to a vessel, such as a pressure vessel. The connection assembly includes a base, an instrument or device, and a split retaining ring wherein the split retaining ring includes overlapping end portions. The split retaining ring also includes an annular rib adapted for engaging a ferrule of the instrument or device in order to substantially sealing engage the instrument or device to the base. |
| US09689516B2 |
Quick connect coupling with retention feature
The present invention provides a quick connect coupling with a retention feature that resists inadvertent disconnection of the coupling in a pressurized state. |
| US09689515B2 |
Quick connector apparatus
A quick connector device includes: a connector body that has two fluid hose connectors located at two ends and an injector port connector located at a middle bottom section thereof; a locking member that is inserted into and rotatably connected to the injector port connector of the connector body and detachably coupled to the injector port; and an o-ring that is coupled to the injector port connector of the connector body and provides a sealing to the injector port. The connector body includes a support rib and a receiving space that securely maintain the locked state and allow the technician to easily assemble/disassemble the device. The quick connector device allows the technician to determine whether the device is in the locked or unlocked state based on the angular position of the locking member. |
| US09689514B2 |
Composite pipe to metal joint
A method for making a metal to composite tube joint including selecting an elongated interior fitting constructed with an exterior barrel, reduced in exterior diameter to form a distally facing annular shoulder and then projecting still further distally to form an interior sleeve having a radially outwardly facing bonding surface. Selecting an elongated metal outer sleeve formed proximally with a collar constructed for receipt over the barrel and increased in interior diameter and projecting distally to form an exterior sleeve having a radially inwardly facing bonding surface cooperating with the first bonding surface to form an annulus receiving an extremity of a composite tube and a bond bonding the extremity of the tube to the bonding surfaces. |
| US09689513B2 |
Tubular bodies and methods of forming same
The present invention provides a tubular article (10), such as may be used as an oil and gas pipeline, having a longitudinal axis X comprising inner and outer separate strips (12, 14) of spirally wound overlapping material each having a longitudinal axis L and first and second edges (16, 18, 16′, 18′), in which each strip (12, 14) comprises two or more longitudinally extending ridges (20, 22, 20′, 22′), each of which extends along said longitudinally extending axis L in parallel to each other and in which said ridges (20, 22, 20′, 22′) each comprise asymmetric ridges having a leading edge (24, 24′) forming a contact portion (28, 28′) and wherein said leading edges (24, 24′) are each in contact with each other and further comprising a non-contact trailing edge portion (26, 26′) which are spaced from each other by an amount G. |
| US09689506B2 |
Hollow poppet valve
A hollow poppet valve (10) is provided with an additional flange shape cavity (S1a), in addition to an ordinary valve head cavity (S1) formed in the valve head (14) of the valve (10) in communication with a valve stem cavity (S2) formed in a valve stem (12). A coolant (19) is loaded in the cavities to facilitate dissipation of heat out of the valve. This flange shape cavity (S1a) extends radially outwardly round a bottom portion of the valve head cavity (S1), extending close to a valve seat, thereby significantly facilitating heat transfer between the coolant (19) and the valve seat of the valve, yet, since the flange shape cavity (S1a) does not influences the thickness of other regions of the valve, it does not degrade durability of the valve. |
| US09689505B2 |
Valve remote control apparatus
It is to realize a valve remote control apparatus capable of driving and controlling, with wireless signals, an air motor configuring an automatic switch to be attached to a manual valve.A valve remote control apparatus is configured to mechanically connect, to a manual operating portion 11 of an existing manual valve 10, an output shaft 21a of an air motor 21 using an air pressure as a drive source, and to remotely control the manual value 10. The valve remote control apparatus includes a solenoid valve (operating valve 53) operated by an operation signal transmitted and received wirelessly between a contact information terminal portion 51 and a contact information operating portion 52. The air pressure for driving and rotating the air motor 21 is supplied via the solenoid valve (operating valve 53). |
| US09689500B2 |
Pressure limited flow spool
A valve includes a pressure limiting flow spool disposed in a valve body. The spool is movable in a first direction from a first position to a second position and in the first direction from the second position to the third position. The valve includes an inlet and a first outlet. The first position is a closed position preventing flow from the inlet to the first outlet, the second position is a maximum flow position having a maximum flow capacity from the inlet to the first outlet, and the third position is a pilot flow position having a reduced flow capacity from the inlet to the first outlet smaller than the maximum flow capacity. |
| US09689497B2 |
Brush seal device
The present invention is to provide a brush seal device capable of following displacement in a radial direction of a rotational shaft appropriately. The brush seal device prevents leakage of process fluid, wear of a brush seal etc., and leakage of process fluid from an outer circumferential side. The brush seal device 100 of the present invention integrally includes an inner circumferential brush seal 120 and an outer circumferential brush seal 140. The inner circumferential brush seal 120 has a brush portion 123 and an inner-circumferential-side free end portion 125 at the inner circumferential side. The outer circumferential brush seal 140 has a brush portion 143 and an outer-circumferential-side free end portion 145 at the outer circumferential side. |
| US09689496B2 |
Axle seal
An axle seal used to prevent lubricant from leaking between a rotating shaft and a shaft bore. The seal includes: a peripheral connection section reliably connected to an inner edge of the shaft bore; an extensible and retractable adjustment section connected to the peripheral connection section, allowing the seal to make extension and retraction adjustment in a radial direction; and a sealed contact section connected to the inner edge of the extensible and retractable adjustment section and potentially in sealed contact with the surface of the rotating shaft. The seal contains an alignment follower that can synchronously transfer a radial movement of the rotating shaft to the inner edge of the extensible and retractable adjustment section. One application would be an oil seal between a front cover and crankshaft. |
| US09689495B2 |
Method and apparatus to control a continuously variable transmission
A powertrain system including an internal combustion engine rotatably coupled to a variator of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is described. A method for controlling the CVT includes determining a first speed ratio change rate based upon a desired speed ratio and a commanded speed ratio, and determining a commanded speed ratio trajectory based upon the first speed ratio change rate, an actual speed ratio and a commanded speed ratio. A ratio change coefficient and a force ratio factor are determined based upon the commanded speed ratio trajectory. A shift force is determined based upon the ratio change coefficient and a total speed ratio change rate. A primary pulley pressure and a secondary pulley pressure for the CVT are controlled based upon the shift force and the force ratio factor. |
| US09689494B2 |
Hydraulic control unit
A hydraulic control unit configured to improve energy efficiency is provided. The hydraulic control unit is comprised of: a feeding passage that delivers fluid from at least any of an oil pump and an accumulator storing hydraulic pressure to an actuator; a draining passage that discharge the fluid from the actuator to a drain spot; and a discharging means that is configured to selectively discharge the fluid from the actuator to the accumulator through the feeding passage, if the fluid has to be discharged from the actuator and a pressure of the accumulator is lower than that of the actuator. |
| US09689493B2 |
System and method for minimal draindown in CVT
A hydraulic control system for a transmission is provided. The hydraulic control system provides a latching system to retain CVT clutch pressure and/or pulley pressure for one or more CVT torque transmitting mechanisms and/or CVT pulleys in a CVT transmission. Components of the hydraulic control system of the present disclosure may include blow off valves, such as ball check-valves, on the exhaust of the pulley control valves and the exhaust of the CVT clutch control valve(s), and a one-way valve, such as a supply ball check-valve, disposed adjacent to each of the fluid supply inlets of the pulley control valves and the fluid supply inlet of the CVT clutch control valve(s). |
| US09689488B2 |
Integrated apparatus for detecting gear shifting
An integrated apparatus for detecting a gear shifting is provide that has a switch and a gear shifting detection controller for detecting a sports mode of a vehicle that are integrally implemented. The apparatus is configured to detect whether the mode is converted in to the sports mode based on a non-contact recognition manner. Therefore, production and assembly processes are simplified for providing the gear shifting detection controller and the switch to a gear shifting detection configuration, thereby reducing production costs, minimizing noise generated when a general gear shifting mode is converted into the sports mode, or the sports mode is converted into the general gear shifting mode. In addition, a lifespan of the switch configured to detect whether the mode is converted into the sports mode is increased. |
| US09689487B2 |
Roll mount using magnetorheological fluid
A roll mount using a magnetorheological fluid may include a bracket which has a mounting portion having a pipe shape, an insulator made of an elastic material and fitted into the mounting portion, the insulator having therein two liquid chambers that are in communication with each other through flow paths and having a core coupled to a center thereof, and a coil which is wound around an outside of the insulator, in which a magnetorheological fluid is encapsulated in the liquid chambers, the magnetorheological fluid flows while the insulator is elastically deformed by a load applied to the core, and a flow rate of the magnetorheological fluid is adjusted depending on an amount of electric current applied to the coil. |
| US09689486B2 |
Decoupler with concentric clutching members
In an aspect, a decoupler includes a hub, a pulley, a torsion spring having a plurality of coils including first and second end coils, a first spring driver fixed to the pulley, and having a first spring driver surface and a first end coil support surface; a second spring driver not fixed to the pulley, and having a second spring driver surface and a second end coil support surface, a driving clutch member mounted connected to the second spring driver, a driven clutch member mounted concentrically with the driving clutch member and drivingly connected to the hub, a one-way wrap spring clutch mounted about the hub and disposed to interconnect the driving and driven clutchmembers, and configured to transfer torque in a first direction between the driving and driven clutchmembers. A first overrun limit surface connected to the first spring driver engages a second overrun limit surface connected to the second spring driver when an angular displacement of the second spring driver relative to the first spring driver reaches a first selected angular displacement so as to prevent an increase in the angular displacement. At the selected angular displacement any axial compression of the torsion spring resulting from rotation of the second end coil support surface relative to the first end coil support surface is sufficiently small to prevent the coils from binding to one another. |
| US09689484B2 |
Differential control system for a motor vehicle
A differential control system for a motor vehicle such as a truck including at least one differential includes at least one differential lock which is able to operate the differential into at least a locked or an unlocked state, a controller that controls the differential lock, a manually operable control member freely rotating bidirectionally around at least one axis, an encoder connected to the control member to convert a rotation of the control member into a signal fed to the controller which controls the differential lock in order to operate the differential into a locked or an unlocked state. |
| US09689480B2 |
Linear actuator
A linear actuator for moving a load includes a tubular actuator housing, which has an end-side housing bottom and an end-side housing head, a rotatably drivable threaded spindle which is mounted rotatably in the housing bottom of the actuator housing and extends in an interior of the actuator housing from the housing bottom in a direction of the housing head, a piston which comprises a spindle nut, which is in engagement with the threaded spindle, and is guided longitudinally in the actuator housing, and a hollow actuator rod which is assembled with the piston, into which actuator rod the threaded spindle dips, and which actuator rod protrudes out of the actuator housing on the housing head. The linear actuator is configured such that the actuator housing is filled with pressurized oil and gas, the oil and gas being situated in a single volume. |
| US09689478B2 |
Brake pedal apparatus with variable pedal ratio
A brake pedal apparatus with a variable pedal ratio includes a pedal shaft rotatably disposed in a pedal plate. A brake pedal is coupled to the pedal shaft A slider is coupled to the pedal shaft so as to be axially movable relative to the pedal shaft while being capable of rotating together with the pedal shaft. A drive unit may axially move the slider in accordance with a driver's actuation. An adjusting rod is fixed to the slider and is obliquely disposed. A transmission shaft is coupled to the adjusting rod so as to be movable and is coupled to a dual brake valve to operate the dual brake valve. A pedal ratio is adjusted while the adjusting rod moves together with the slider during axial movement of the slider while the transmission shaft is coupled to the dual brake valve. |
| US09689477B2 |
Ball type continuously variable transmission/infinitely variable transmission
A variable transmission includes an input shaft, a planetary gear set drivingly engaged with a variator comprising, a variator carrier assembly, a first ring assembly, and a second ring assembly; and the output shaft, arranged with various combinations of brakes and clutches to produce transmissions with continuously variable or infinitely variable torque output ratios. |
| US09689475B2 |
Tensioning or guide rail with opening
A tensioning or guide rail for a chain drive, in particular for a chain drive of an internal combustion engine, comprises two spaced-apart contact sections and one non-contact section arranged therebetween, the contact sections each having a sliding surface which is adapted to be brought into contact with a chain, and the non-contact section interconnecting the two contact sections as a support structure. Such a rail is to be configured such that the installation space available can be utilized more advantageously. To this end, the support structure of the non-contact section comprises an opening extending continuously from a front to a rear of the tensioning or guide rail and separating the contact sections provided with the sliding surfaces. The invention also relates to an endless drive of the type in question. |
| US09689474B2 |
Chain tensioner
Provided is a chain tensioner that is capable of restricting the movement of a plunger at an engagement position, hardly causes its breakage and abrasion even if receiving a great force applied to the plunger, needs no setting for a backlash amount, and allows the engagement position of the plunger to be freely shifted forward and backward. The tensioner body has an engagement member that extends toward and retracts from engagement grooves provided on the outer periphery of the plunger, a press member that presses, in one direction, a cam member which maintains and releases the extending state of the engagement member, and a hydraulic supply path through which oil is supplied to press the cam member in a direction opposite to the pressing direction of the press member. |
| US09689472B2 |
Control device for automatic transmission
A power transfer device that includes an automatic transmission that includes a plurality of engagement elements and a speed change gear mechanism capable of establishing a multiplicity of shift speeds by changing a power transfer path by engaging or disengaging the engagement elements; and a control device that is configured to control the automatic transmission. |
| US09689470B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, at least three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes actuatable in combinations of three to establish a plurality of forward gear ratios and at least one reverse gear ratio. |
| US09689465B2 |
Dual rotary cam structure
A dual rotary cam may include a first rotating unit, a second rotating unit, a first rod, a second rod and a transmission device. The transmission device has an active gear, two connecting gears, and two passive gears. The active gear is driven by a motor to drive the connecting gears. A decelerating gear that is co-axially disposed with the connecting gear is used to connect the passive gears. The passive gears co-axially connect with the connecting portions of the first rod and second rod. The gear motion between the active gear, connecting gears, passive gears and decelerating gear can be arranged to adjust the gaps therebetween to achieve a goal of seamless transmission of the rotary cam. |
| US09689464B2 |
Worm speed reducer and method for manufacturing worm wheel included in worm speed reducer
A plane that contains a central axis of a worm shaft and that is orthogonal to a central axis of a worm wheel is arranged at a central position of the worm wheel in a tooth width direction thereof when no load is applied to a worm speed reducer. The worm wheel is formed by a cutting operation using a hob with a hob center offset from the central position toward an offset direction corresponding to a first direction along the tooth width direction. A pair of tooth flanks has different pressure angles at the central portion in the tooth width direction. |
| US09689461B2 |
Damper assebmly sealing arrangement
A damper assembly for a motor vehicle drive train is provided. The damper assembly includes a spring retainer retaining arc springs; an engine-side cover for connecting to an engine crankshaft, the spring retainer being fixed to the engine-side cover; and a seal configuration between the engine-side cover and the spring retainer. The seal configuration, the engine-side cover and the spring retainer define an arc spring cavity for lubricating fluid to lubricate the arc springs. The seal configuration is configured to prevent lubricating fluid from radially exiting the arc spring cavity during rotation of the damper assembly about a center axis thereof. A method of forming a damper assembly is also provided. |
| US09689455B2 |
Air spring modular piston
A modular piston assembly is associated with an air spring assembly that has a bellows rolling over a surface of the piston assembly. The modular piston assembly includes a first piston portion adapted to fasten to an associated air spring bellows. A second piston portion separate from the first portion, is adapted to fasten to an associated mounting component. Interlocking members are provided to secure the first and second piston portions together, and/or any desired intermediate piston portions. Discrete air reservoirs may also be included in the modular piston assembly to increase the volume of the air spring. |
| US09689452B2 |
Method for assembling a pendulum-type damping device and damping device
A method for assembling a pendulum-type damping device (1) includes the steps of force-fitting a first end of the spacer (17) into an opening (26) of a first part (3a) of a pendulum mass (3). A support (2) is positioned so that the spacer (17) spans a corresponding opening of the support (2). A roller is positioned between the spacer (17) and the edge of the opening of the support (2). The second end (17b) of the spacer (17) is force fit into an opening (26) of a second part (3b) of the mass (3). |
| US09689451B2 |
Tension spring mount
End mounts are used to secure a helical tension spring to end fixtures with various shapes and sizes. These end mounts contain an inner hole to encase the inner spring end mount and secure the end mount making it like a cap. There is also a keyhole created in the top surface that goes through the end mount allowing it to fit over the fixtures but not over the inner end mount, holding it in place. Grooves are machined in a helical pattern on the cylindrical side wall of the end mount. The spring is wound onto the grooves of the end mount. |
| US09689444B2 |
Damped anti-rotational systems
A damped anti-rotational system is provided comprising a pawl carrier having an axis of rotation, a pawl pivotably mounted to the pawl carrier on a pivot joint, the pawl having a contact portion and a counterweight portion, a stop pin axially disposed in the pawl carrier and configured to contact the contact portion of the pawl in response to radially inward movement of the pawl, wherein the stop pin is mounted to the pawl carrier at a forward portion of the stop pin and an aft portion of the stop pin, wherein a forward O ring is disposed on the forward portion of the stop pin and an aft O ring is disposed on the aft portion of the stop pin. |
| US09689443B2 |
Electric parking brake driving device and electric parking brake device
A parking brake actuator generates and applies a braking force to a vehicle wheel in such a manner that the parking brake actuator converts a rotational motion of a screw member, which is rotated by an electric parking brake driving device, into a translatory motion and transmitting the converted translatory motion to a piston to push a brake pad toward a disc by the piston. The electric parking brake driving device includes an electric motor and a reduction gear mechanism which transmits driving force of the electric motor to the parking brake actuator. The reduction gear mechanism includes a gear body and a planetary gear mechanism, which is provided within the gear body and into which the driving force of the electric motor is inputted. A cushion rubber, which is compressible in the circumferential direction, is interposed between a ring gear of the planetary gear mechanism and the gear body. |
| US09689442B2 |
Selectable one-way clutch
A selectable one-way clutch that can prevent unintentional rotation of a selector plate by a drag torque is provided. In the selectable one-way clutch, a selector plate having a first aperture for letting through a strut is interposed between a fixed plate and a rotary plate while being allowed to rotate between an engagement position and a disengagement position. The selectable one-way clutch comprises: a protector plate interposed between the rotary plate and the selector plate; and a second aperture formed on the protector plate to let through the strut when the selector plate is rotated to the engagement position. |
| US09689439B2 |
Clutch device having a back torque limiter
A clutch device includes a slipper cam mechanism which releases a back torque by moving a clutch center in an axial direction, and a plunger mechanism provided to the clutch center. The plunger mechanism engages with a movement restricting portion until a rotational speed of the clutch center reaches a threshold value thus restricting the movement of the clutch center in the clutch axial direction, and the plunger mechanism is operated by a centrifugal force when the rotational speed of the clutch center exceeds the threshold value such that it disengages from the movement restricting portion. |
| US09689428B2 |
Bearing ring including a temperature compensation ring, bearing including the bearing ring, and method for manufacturing a bearing ring
A bearing ring includes a temperature compensation ring made from an elastic material vulcanized or otherwise materially bonded onto an outer surface of the bearing ring, the outer surface being oriented in a radial direction. The bearing ring includes a radially encircling groove, and in an unloaded state of the temperature compensation ring, that is, independently of an application of axial pressure against the temperature compensation ring, the temperature compensation ring fills the groove in an interference-fit manner. |
| US09689426B2 |
Linear motion bearing with modular bearing segments
A modular bearing segment is disclosed. The modular bearing segment having a first end and a second end and can include a retainer defining at least one bearing track having an open load bearing portion; a plurality of bearings positioned within the at least one bearing track; a bearing plate in load bearing communication with less than all of the plurality of bearings and positioned opposite the retainer; and a lid positioned on the bearing plate, fixed to the retainer and defining a rocker element retaining hole positioned above the bearing plate. |
| US09689424B1 |
Tiered axial taper roller bearing with common center ring
A tiered bearing assembly including first and second pluralities of tapered rolling elements and a common center ring arranged between the first and second pluralities of tapered rolling elements with a Z-shaped profile in cross-section is provided. A taper direction of the first plurality of tapered rolling elements is opposite to a taper direction of the second plurality of tapered rolling elements. |
| US09689422B2 |
Foil bearing unit
A foil bearing unit includes: a first foil holder formed of a single component; a radial bearing foil mounted to an inner peripheral surface of the first foil holder; a thrust bearing foil mounted to an end surface of the first foil holder; and an inner member including: a shaft portion; and a flange portion projecting radially outward from the shaft portion. The inner member is supported in a radial direction by a fluid pressure that is generated in a radial bearing gap between a bearing surface of the radial bearing foil and an outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion, and the inner member is further supported in a thrust direction by a fluid pressure that is generated in a thrust bearing gap between a bearing surface of the thrust bearing foil and one end surface of the flange portion. |
| US09689421B2 |
High security fastener
A security fastener for installation on a wheel having a recess hole extending from a recess entrance of a first diameter comprising an end portion concentric with a longitudinal axis of the fastener, the end portion configured to mate with a corresponding element of the recess hole, an intermediate skirt portion having a side wall region with a diameter within about 6 millimeters of the diameter of the recess entrance, a drive portion having a tapered outer surface and a plurality of circumferentially spaced longitudinally extending key-receiving grooves in the tapered outer surface arranged in a lock pattern to which a driving torque may be applied, the tapered outer surface sloping downward and outward away from the longitudinal axis of the fastener from a top surface to the skirt portion at a taper angle of at least 11 degrees. |
| US09689414B2 |
Fastening device for installing a fitting in a holed thin wall
A fastening device for installing a fitting or a holding clamp in a hole in a thin wall. The fastening device includes a head area with fitting parts attached thereto for clamping or enclosing a portion of the fitting or holding clamp between the head and the thin wall. The fastening device also includes a body area that proceeds from the head area and penetrates the hole in an installed condition. Proceeding from the end of the body area are two spring legs which are directed rearward toward the thin wall, and which are supported by sloping foot-like ends on two diametrically opposite, parallel edges of the hole. The fastening device forms guide strips which protrude laterally from the body area, and which are guided into suitable notches (between the opposite edges of the hole in the thin wall. |
| US09689413B2 |
Magnet retention member and locking sleeve for a position sensor arrangement for a gear mechanism
The invention relates to a magnet retention member (1) which can be fitted to a wall (28) of a locking sleeve (27) for a gear mechanism, a locking sleeve (27) and a position sensor arrangement (37) for a gear mechanism. In order to be able to produce the position sensor arrangement (37) with the magnet retention member (1) and/or the locking sleeve (27) in the most cost-effective manner possible, there is provision according to the invention for the magnet retention member (1) to have a retention slot (4) for receiving a wall (28) of the locking sleeve (27), which is flanked by retention arms (2, 3) of the magnet retention member (1), the wall (28) having a securing portion (32) for the magnet retention member (1) and the position sensor (37) having a magnet retention member (1) according to the invention and/or a locking sleeve (27) according to the invention. |
| US09689407B2 |
Hydraulic drive with rapid stroke and load stroke
A hydraulic drive including a first differential cylinder that includes a first and a second pressure chamber and a first piston that separates the first from the second pressure chamber and having two pumps delivering in opposite direction. The hydraulic drive further includes a second differential cylinder that includes a first and a second pressure chamber and a second piston that separates the first pressure chamber from the second pressure chamber, and a directional control valve that has a first and a second switching position. The pumps in the first switching position are respectively hydraulically connected via pressure chambers of the first differential cylinder that are different from each other and whereby the pumps in the second switching position are respectively connected via pressure chambers of the second differential cylinder that are different from each other. |
| US09689401B2 |
Radial impeller with a radially free basic rim
An impeller designed to be mounted on a rotary shaft includes: a basic rim provided with blades protruding on one surface of the basic rim, and a hub capable of being coupled to the basic rim and to the rotary shaft. In certain embodiments, the impeller includes an annular plate and the hub, where the annular plate and the basic rim are configured to interact together so as to hold the basic rim axially and to maintain a freedom of radial deformation of the basic rim relative to the hub and to the annular plate. |
| US09689393B2 |
Mechanical coolant pump
A coolant pump includes an outlet volute comprising a pivot axis, an impeller pump, a housing, and an outlet valve arrangement. The housing comprises an outlet volute housing defining the outlet volute and comprises a volute housing wall comprising a recess, and a first outlet channel comprising a valve opening. The outlet valve arrangement is disposed in the first outlet channel and comprises a valve body which opens or closes the valve opening. The valve body comprises a circle segment body comprising a proximal surface and a maximum outside radius. The circle segment body is rotated around the pivot axis. The proximal surface is distant from the pivot axis by an offset distance which is at least ¼ of the maximum outside radius. The recess houses the circle segment body in the closed valve position. A lateral distance of the pivot axis to the volute housing wall is approximately equal to the offset distance. |
| US09689387B2 |
Port plate of a flat sided liquid ring pump having a gas scavenge passage therein
A liquid ring pump includes a port plate coupled to a pump head. The port plate has an opening with a first end at a first section and a second end at a second section. The first section opens through a portion of a surface forming a first face of the port plate. The second section opens at the second end into a shaft receiving aperture of the port plate. The first and second sections are continuous. The first section is angularly between the closing edge of a port plate outlet and leading edge of a port plate inlet. A length measured from the first section to the inlet's leading edge is less than a length measured from the first section to the outlet's leading edge. The first section does not open into the outlet or inlet. |
| US09689385B2 |
Method for operating a multi-phase pump and apparatus therefor
The invention concerns a method and an apparatus for operating a multi-phase pump which has a suction-side inlet (10) and a discharge-side outlet (20) and which pumps a multi-phase mixture charged with solids, comprising the following steps: a. pumping a multi-phase mixture into a discharge-side separation chamber (45), b. separating a gaseous phase from a liquid phase and a solid phase in the separation chamber (45), c. separating the liquid phase from the solid phase in the separation chamber (45), and d. supplying a portion of the liquid phase freed from the solid phase to the suction side. |
| US09689384B2 |
Liquid feed pump and liquid chromatograph
A recess into which a protrusion of a plunger seal is to be fitted is provided at a part of a pump head where a plunger is to be inserted into a pump chamber. The plunger seal seals the pump chamber by an outer circumferential surface of the protrusion coming into close contact with an inner circumferential surface of the recess and a surface of a flange on the side of the protrusion coming into close contact with a circumferential edge surface of the recess of the pump head due to the protrusion being fitted into the recess and being pressed by a backup ring toward the pump chamber. The inner circumferential surface of the recess of the pump head and the circumferential edge surface of the recess are covered by a film of an acid-resistant material. |
| US09689380B2 |
Shape memory actuator device for a rearview device of a motor vehicle with reduced cooling times
An actuator device for a rearview device of a motor vehicle includes at least one retaining element, at least one adjusting element, at least one driving means, and at least one heat-conducting means. The adjusting element is configured to be transferred into a plurality of functional positions, in particular from a basic position into at least one end position. The driving means includes at least one shape-memory element in the form of a wire, extending between the retaining element and the adjusting element and configured to be secured to both. Extension of the shape-memory element can be modified when electrically energized. The adjusting element can be transferred from one functional position into another functional position by modifying the extension. The heat-conducting means lies in contact with the driving means at least in the end position of the adjusting element. At least one switching means provides no contact between the driving means and the heat-conducting means in the basic position of the adjusting element and causes contact between the driving means and the heat-conducting means. |
| US09689379B2 |
Potential energy translation to rotational acceleration mechanism
A mechanism to create rotational mechanical advantage from an acceleration field consisting of a gravity arm assembly (14) rotationally connected in a horizontal plane to a gimbal assembly (41). A powered action arm assembly (21) rotationally connected in a horizontal plane, adjacent to the first arm assembly, to the gimbal assembly (41). A counterweight arm assembly (72), connecting at one end to a gearbox assembly (64) and connecting at the opposite end to an attachment mounting assembly (87), all vertically connected to the gimbal assembly (41). A mounting stand assembly (80) to rotationally connect to the gimbal assembly (41). An electrical control assembly (100) to controllably power the action arm assembly. The gravity arm and action arm assemblies are balanced about the gimbal assembly by the counterweight arm assemblies. The action arm assembly rotates about the axis of the gravity arm assembly, creating an imbalance in the gimbal assembly, causing the gravity arm assembly to rotate, and the counterweight arm assembly to swing, all in the same direction of the action arm assembly. |
| US09689377B2 |
Wind turbine rotor blade having an electrical heating device and a plurality of lightning conductors
A wind turbine rotor blade includes: a rotor blade root; a rotor blade tip; an electrical heating device; a first lightning receptor disposed in the region of the rotor blade tip; precisely two lightning conductors leading from the lightning receptor to the rotor blade root; a second lightning receptor arranged at a distance to the rotor blade tip and connected to one of the lightning conductors; and, each one of the two lightning conductors being electrically conductively connected to the electrical heating device at a multiplicity of points between the rotor blade root and the rotor blade tip so as to cause equipotential bonding between the two lightning conductors via the electrical heating device in response to a lightning strike to the rotor blade. |
| US09689374B2 |
Method and apparatus for reduction of fatigue and gust loads on wind turbine blades
An adjustable lift regulating device (30, 32, 40, 50, 52, 56, 60, 68, 72, 76) on an inboard portion of a wind turbine blade (28). The lift regulating device is activated to reduce lift on the inboard portion of the blade by causing flow separation (41) on the suction side (22) of the blade. To compensate for the lost lift, the blade pitch is increased to a running pitch that facilitates stalling on the outer portion of the blade in gusts. This provides passive reduction of fatigue and extreme loads from gusts while allowing full power production under non-gust conditions. |
| US09689373B2 |
Apparatus for converting wind into circular mechanical motion
Pocket and cup sails formed from flexible materials, especially such sails formed with excess material, have spar like supports attached at their deepest point to maintain the depth of the said sails when the wind fills them so that the sails expand to maximize resistance to the wind coming into the openings of the sails and so that the sails deflate when the wind is coming from the back of the sails to minimize resistance to the wind, the said sails being attached to rotor arms on rotary devices to provide torque, the torque being used to rotate decorative structures including the sails themselves, generate electricity, bring airplane tires up to speed before landing, and/or measure wind speed, and sails optionally having cuffs on the inside to help the sails inflate and/or maintain inflation by minimizing spillage of air. |
| US09689371B2 |
Method and adhesive machine for constructing segmented rotor blades
An adhesive machine for constructing segmented rotor blades having at least three prefabricated rotor blade parts contains a first accommodating region for receiving a first prefabricated rotor blade part, a second accommodating region for receiving a second prefabricated rotor blade part and a third accommodating region for receiving a third prefabricated rotor blade part. The first accommodating region, the second accommodating region and the third accommodating region can be moved relative to each other so that, following successful receiving of the three prefabricated rotor blade parts in the proper accommodating regions in an open position of the adhesive machine, the rotor blade parts can be brought into direct or indirect contact with each other via predetermined adhesion regions and thus transferred into an adhesion position. |
| US09689370B2 |
Apparatus for converting wave motion on a body of water into electrical power
Apparatus for converting wave motion on a body of water into electrical power includes an electrical power generating system. The system includes a floatable housing. An electrical power generating unit is disposed within the floatable housing. The electrical power generating unit includes two spaced apart wheels which are connected by a drive element, and at least one generator for generating electrical power. A weight is connected to the drive element. When the system is tilted by wave motion, the weight moves toward the lower wheel, thereby turning the wheels and generator(s) and creating electrical power. In an embodiment, two weights are combined to provide drive element movement in a single direction. In another embodiment, the weight travels along a track which has two upturned ends. |
| US09689369B2 |
Endless belt energy converter
The present invention relates to a way to convert energy from a fluid flow, using a fluid-flow transducer, having a frame anchorable against the flow, an elongated conveyor supported by the frame, and a plurality of vanes distributed along the conveyor, adapted to engage the fluid flow and to drive the conveyor in response to urging of the fluid flow, in combination with a power take-off coupled to be driven by the conveyor and adapted to drive a load. |
| US09689366B2 |
Method to decouple battery from high level cranking currents of diesel engines
A method of decoupling a battery during high current cranking of an engine comprises charging a supercapacitor bank to a preselected DC supercapacitor voltage from a battery when said battery is above a preselected battery voltage, switching the supercapacitor bank to a load and switching the battery off the load, starting the engine and supplying initial voltage and current until terminal voltage of the supercapacitor is equal to terminal voltage of the battery, switching the battery into parallel with the supercapacitor, disconnecting the supercapacitor from the load, and recharging the supercapacitor to the preselected DC capacitor voltage. |
| US09689364B2 |
Vented high pressure valve
A valve assembly for a fuel pump is disclosed. In certain aspect, the valve assembly includes a housing defining a valve chamber, a valve inlet in fluid communication with the valve chamber, a valve outlet in fluid communication with the valve chamber, a valve seat; a valve body movably disposed within the valve chamber, a retainer sealingly engaging the housing and defining a cavity between the base portion of the valve body and the retainer, wherein the retainer comprises one or more control orifices formed therein and configured to provide fluid communication to the cavity to regulate a position of the valve body based on at least a pressure difference between the valve chamber and the cavity, and a spring member disposed between the retainer and the valve body, wherein the spring member is configured to bias the valve body. |
| US09689363B2 |
Gaseous fuel mixer
A mixing device for introducing gaseous fuel into an intake airflow of an engine, the mixing device including an inlet, an outlet, an intake passage extending between the inlet and the outlet, an annular channel, and a plurality of fuel supply manifolds, each coupled to a main gaseous fuel inlet of the mixing device, and a separate plurality of gaseous fuel injectors coupled to each one of the plurality of fuel supply manifolds to receive gaseous fuel from the corresponding fuel supply manifold. The annular channel is configured to receive gaseous fuel injected from all of the separate pluralities of gaseous fuel injectors. The mixing device includes a diffuser, the diffuser arranged to receive gaseous fuel from the annular channel and operable to diffuse gaseous fuel from the annular channel into the intake airflow. |
| US09689358B2 |
Air flow measuring device
A second sensor includes a lead wire and is exposed to intake air flowing through a passage outside a housing. A conduction body is conductively-joined to the wire. A lead hole opens on an exposed surface, and the wire or the conduction body is pulled out of the passage through the hole. A predetermined terminal is conductively-joined to the wire or the conduction body which is pulled out through the hole. A mold part is provided by injection-molding from resin fluid to seal a conductively-joined part between the wire or the conduction body and the predetermined terminal. The hole is filled up with a filler material to limit leakage of intake air from the passage. A high resilient part has higher resilience than the filler material and is located between the filler material and the mold part to receive injection pressure at time of the injection-molding of the mold part. |
| US09689353B2 |
Charge air cooler device
A charge air cooler (CAC) device includes a body including an inlet end, an outlet end, and a plurality of passages extending between the inlet end and the outlet end. At least one of the plurality of passages is covered by an inlet blocking member at the inlet end. |
| US09689348B2 |
Control apparatus and control method for internal combustion engine
A control apparatus 57 is a 2-input, 2-output integral-type optimal servo system in which intake air amount and intake oxygen concentration are used as control quantities (y1, y2) and the degree of opening of a control valve of an exhaust gas recirculation apparatus and the degree of opening of a control valve of a supercharger equipped with a variable flow rate mechanism are used as manipulated quantities (u1, u2), and includes an output feedback system. The control apparatus (57) is provided with an EGR valve opening degree unit (70) and an opening rate valve of the supercharger. Each of the control units includes a non-interference controller (64) for eliminating interference between the manipulated quantity for the control valve of the exhaust gas recirculation apparatus and the manipulated quantity for the control valve of the supercharger equipped with the variable flow rate mechanism. |
| US09689346B2 |
Gas turbine engine convergent/divergent exhaust nozzle divergent seal with dovetail interface
A divergent flap seal includes a flap seal body with a spine, the flap seal body manufactured of a non-metallic material. A mount is engaged with the spine at the dovetail interface and a resilient member at the dovetail interface. |
| US09689345B2 |
Electric track lock
The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a track lock assembly that includes a pawl assembly comprising a pawl arm extending from a pawl axis and configured to engage a slot in a slider assembly, a cam arm extending from the pawl axis and having a pawl cam, and a compliant member, and a position lock assembly comprising a first lock arm extending from a lock axis and an actuator configured to urge rotation of the first lock arm between a lock locked position and a lock unlocked position, the first lock arm configured to engage and retain the cam arm in a pawl locked position when the first lock arm is in the lock locked position and disengage the cam arm in the lock unlocked position such that the compliant member is able to urge the pawl assembly to a pawl unlocked position. |
| US09689344B1 |
Double-acting modular free-piston stirling machines without buffer spaces
Multiple free-piston stirling-cycle machine modules are connected together in double-acting configurations that may be used as engines or heat pumps and scaled to any power level by varying the number of modules. Reciprocating piston assemblies oriented in balanced pairs reduce vibration forces. There are no buffer spaces. Linear motors or generators are packaged inside piston cavities entirely within the module working spaces. The external heat-accepting and heat-rejecting surfaces in one embodiment are directed along inward-facing and outward facing cylinders, and in another embodiment along parallel planes, simplifying thermal connections to the external heat source and sink. |
| US09689343B2 |
Piston
A piston for an internal combustion engine may include an at least partially extending circumferential cooling duct for circulating a coolant. The coolant duct may be closed by a cooling duct cover apart from an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The inlet opening and the outlet opening may be arranged in the cooling duct cover. A guide element may be disposed in a region of the inlet opening configured to catch an incident coolant jet. The guide element may guide the coolant jet into the cooling duct and deflect the coolant jet in precisely a circumferential direction along the cooling duct. |
| US09689341B2 |
Method and system for fuel system control
Methods and systems are provided for increasing a lift pump voltage to a high threshold voltage responsive to a DI pump efficiency being below a threshold efficiency, and increasing a lift pump voltage to a first threshold voltage less than the high threshold voltage responsive to a main jet pump fuel reservoir level being less than a first threshold reservoir level. The approach increases fuel jet pump performance and thereby reducing engine stalls induced by fuel vaporization, while maintaining DI pump efficiency and fuel economy. |
| US09689340B2 |
Controller integrated fuel pump module
A controller integrated fuel pump module may include a receiving part formed on an outer surface of a flange assembled in a fuel tank, a PCB assembly configured by mounting elements of a controller to a PCB, wherein the PCB assembly is molded by a molding part while being received in the receiving part, and a convexo-concave portion having a shape in which recesses and bosses, the convexo-concave portion being repeatedly formed on an inner surface of the receiving part, such that a bonding force between the receiving part and the molding part is increased by the convexo-concave portion. |
| US09689339B2 |
Engine torque control with fuel mass
An engine assembly includes an internal combustion engine with an engine block having at least one cylinder. An intake manifold and an exhaust manifold are each fluidly connected to the at least one cylinder and define an intake manifold pressure (pi) and an exhaust manifold pressure (pe), respectively. A controller is operatively connected to the internal combustion engine and configured to receive a torque request (TR). The controller is programmed to determine a desired fuel mass (mf) for controlling a torque output of the internal combustion engine. The desired fuel mass (mf) is based at least partially on the torque request (TR), the intake and exhaust manifold pressures and a pressure-volume (PV) diagram of the at least one cylinder. |
| US09689335B2 |
Engine mass air flow calculation method and system
A system and method for determining an engine mass air flow (MAF) for use in an engine air to fuel ratio (AFR) calculation to operate an engine includes monitoring engine operation, determining in the electronic controller a first estimation of engine MAF based on a regression model, determining in the electronic controller a second estimation of engine MAF based on a flow model, and selecting the first or second estimation of engine MAF based on an operating state of the engine. Each estimation can use various engine parameters interchangeably to provide a robust system against sensor failures. |
| US09689334B2 |
Air intake system for an off-road vehicle
An air intake system includes a pre-cleaner having a plurality of tubes configured to receive a flow of air, to filter particulate material from the flow of air, and to provide the flow of air to an engine of an off-road vehicle. The system also includes a controller configured to receive a first signal indicative of an air intake flow rate of the engine, to determine a target number of open tubes for the pre-cleaner based at least in part on the air intake flow rate and a desired air flow rate for each tube of the plurality of tubes, and to output a second signal to a component of the air intake system indicative of instructions to enable the flow of air to the target number of open tubes and to block the flow of air to the remainder of tubes of the plurality of tubes. |
| US09689330B2 |
DPF regeneration in a power system that includes parallel generators
A power system may include a first generator configured to be connected to at least one other generator. Each generator may be configured to be connected to a bus. The bus may be connected to at least one load. The first generator includes a controller that operates the first generator and determines a need to regenerate a diesel particulate filter in the first generator. The controller communicates the need to regenerate the diesel particulate filter to the at least one other generator. |
| US09689327B2 |
Multi-level skip fire
In one aspect, a method for controlling operation of an internal combustion engine is described. The engine is operated in a skip fire manner such that selected skipped working cycles are skipped and selected active working cycles are fired to deliver a desired engine output. A particular level of torque output is selected for each of the fired working chambers. Various methods, engine controllers, arrangements and systems related to the above method are also described. |
| US09689325B2 |
Evaporative fuel processing system
A purge pump is installed in a purge conduit, which forms a purge passage that communicates between an inside of a canister and an air intake passage. When a pressure of the air intake passage is equal to or smaller than a predetermined pressure, a large quantity of evaporative fuel, which is larger than a predetermined purge quantity, is introduced into the air intake passage. At this time, a pump electric power supply device supplies a relatively small amount of the electric power to the purge pump to run the purge pump. When the pressure of the air intake passage is larger than the predetermined pressure, the purge pump is driven to pump the evaporative fuel into the air intake passage. At that time, the pump electric power supply device supplies a relatively large amount of the electric power to the purge pump. |
| US09689323B2 |
Method for determining the water content of a mixed alcohol/gasoline fuel in an internal combustion engine, and device for implementing same
Disclosed is a method for determination of the water content of a mixed alcohol/gasoline fuel in an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, which includes the stages of: determination of a first value for alcohol content of the fuel using a measurement of combustion richness; determination of a second value for alcohol content of the fuel using a measurement recorded by a sensor for measurement of the electrical conductivity of the fuel; comparison of the first value and the second value; and, when the first value is lower than the second value, determination of the water content of the fuel by assigning a predetermined value for water content associated with the pair consisting of the first value and of the second value for alcohol content. |
| US09689314B2 |
Intermediate casing for turbomachine and accessory gearbox drive assembly
A turbomachine intermediate casing including an internal hub designed to accept a turbomachine compressor shaft, an outer shell ring, and a plurality of radial arms connecting the hub and the shell ring, one of the arms including an internal housing of radial shaft for driving auxiliary machines, the casing further includes a bevel gearbox for the radial shaft arranged in the outer shell ring, the gearbox being formed as one with the outer shell ring, and the bevel gearbox includes a housing for gears between a radial shaft and an accessories gearbox, the housing including an opening opening to the periphery of the outer shell ring. |
| US09689308B2 |
Throttle valve assembly
A throttle valve assembly includes a valve housing having a main channel and an auxiliary channel. A main throttle valve is pivotally mounted in the main channel, and an auxiliary throttle valve pivotally is mounted in the auxiliary channel. A common rotating actuator controls the opening angle of both the main throttle valve and the auxiliary throttle valve through an actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism includes a crank mechanism connected between an auxiliary pivoting shaft and a gear train driven by the rotating actuator. |
| US09689306B2 |
Method for supercritical diesel combustion
A method for supercritical diesel combustion combines fumigation and supercritical diesel fuel combustion to effect greater fuel efficiency and reduce exhaust gas pollutants from a compression ignition engine. The invention utilizes the fumigant method by combining two gases (DME and propane) which autoignite prior to the injection of the liquid diesel fuel. This pre-combustion of the fumigant gases combined with the engine's compression of the combustion chamber gases is managed to attain a supercritical combustion chamber environment into which the liquid diesel fuel is injected. This targeted supercritical combustion chamber environment causes the diesel fuel to become a supercritical fluid prior to combustion, resulting in significantly greater efficiency and negligible exhaust gas pollutants resulting from the combustion of the diesel fuel. |
| US09689293B2 |
Reductant delivery unit for automotive selective catalytic reduction with optimized fluid heating
A reductant delivery unit reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from a vehicle. The delivery unit includes a solenoid operated fluid injector having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The inlet receives a source of reducing agent and the outlet communicates with an exhaust gas flow path of the vehicle so that the fluid injector controls injection of the reducing agent into the exhaust gas flow path. The fluid injector has an inlet tube for directing the reducing agent between the inlet and the outlet. A coil heater is integral with the fluid injector and is constructed and arranged, when energized, to inductively heat the inlet tube and thus at least a portion of the reducing agent so that an unheated volume, of the reducing agent in the inlet tube, which is adjacent to the fluid outlet, is less than about 100 mm3. |
| US09689291B2 |
Pump purge for urea dosing system
According to one embodiment, a diesel exhaust fluid purging system includes a metering valve with a supply port and a delivery port. The purging system also includes a pump assembly that is fluidly connected to the supply port of the metering valve. The pump assembly includes a pump and a single supply line that is fluidly connectable with a diesel exhaust fluid source. The purging system further includes an injection assembly that is fluidly connected to the delivery port of the metering valve. The injection assembly includes an air supply line that is fluidly connectable with an air supply source. Additionally, the purging system includes a controller in electrical communication with the metering valve, the pump assembly, and the injection assembly. The controller is configured to purge the pump assembly of residual diesel exhaust fluid using air from the air supply line. |
| US09689290B2 |
Reductant mixing system for an exhaust gas after-treatment device
An after-treatment (AT) system for a flow of exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine includes a first AT device and a second AT device in fluid communication with and positioned in the exhaust gas flow downstream of the first AT device. The AT system also includes an exhaust passage configured to carry the exhaust gas flow from the first AT device to the second AT device. The AT system additionally includes an injector configured to introduce a reductant into the exhaust passage. The second AT device includes an inlet cone having a volute defining a spiral primary path for the exhaust gas flow into the second AT device and configured to generate a swirling motion of and turbulence in the exhaust gas flow. A vehicle employing the AT system is also disclosed. |
| US09689287B2 |
Bypass valve for a lubricating circuit of an internal combustion engine equipped with a cooler of a respective lubricating fluid
Bypass valve for a lubrication circuit of an internal combustion engine equipped with a cooler of a respective lubricating fluid, the valve comprising a tubular body, a first outlet opening, a second outlet opening and a movable shutter slidingly associated to the tubular body so as to define a slide valve, wherein the valve comprises a bypass duct having development parallel to said development axis and partially penetrating in the tubular body to bypass said shutter. |
| US09689282B2 |
Variable valve lift apparatus
A variable valve lift apparatus that changes a lift of a valve in an engine may include an outer body selectively pivoting based on rotation of a cam, having a first end configured to be connected with a valve and a second end mounted with a pivot shaft, and having an internal space formed in the outer body, an inner body pivoting based on rotation of the cam, disposed in the internal space of the outer body, and having a first end rotatably connected to the first end of the outer body, a connecting shaft disposed through the first end of the outer body and the first end of the inner body and connecting the outer body and the inner body to each other, and a lost motion spring having a portion fixed to the outer body and another portion fixed to the inner body. |
| US09689281B2 |
Hermetic motor cooling for high temperature organic Rankine cycle system
An Organic Rankine Cycle system includes a turbine driven by a working fluid and a generator driven by the turbine. The turbine includes a rotor volume that is at sub-atmospheric pressure, and the working fluid is sprayed into the rotor volume. The turbine can be arranged in a primary circuit that also includes, in flow series from the turbine, a condenser, a first pump, and an evaporator. The rotor volume can be arranged in a secondary cooling circuit that includes, in flow series from the rotor volume, a heat exchanger, a second pump, and a restriction valve located downstream of the second pump and upstream of the rotor volume. |
| US09689280B2 |
Control valve control method and control device, and power generating plant utilizing same
A gas turbine plant including a gas turbine and a compressor is provided with a steam turbine plant including a steam turbine and a condenser, and, an exhaust heat recovery boiler. Steam from the exhaust heat recovery boiler is directly flown to the condenser of the steam turbine plant through a bypass control valve. A pressure sensor detects pressure in a turbine bypass system. A controller outputs, based on a set value from an input device and a process value from the pressure sensor, an open level instruction value to the control value so as to make the process value consistent with the set value in a predetermined sampling cycle. A corrector corrects the set value from the input device in a direction in which the open level instruction value decreases when the open level instruction value from the controller becomes a value that substantially fully opens the control valve. |
| US09689278B2 |
Rotor disk including a plurality of hooks
A rotor disk comprises a plurality of circumferentially distributed hooks, the set of hooks defining an annular groove adapted to cooperate with at least two flange sectors. At least one of the hooks comprises a second element through which a recess is formed which opens up at each of the transverse flanks of the second element and at the internal peripheral surface of the second element. |
| US09689273B2 |
Shroud arrangement for a gas turbine engine
Described is a shroud arrangement for a gas turbine engine, comprising: a seal segment for bounding a hot gas flow path within the gas turbine engine, the seal segment being attached to a casing of the engine via at least one fore attachment and at least one aft attachment, the fore and aft attachment restricting radial movement of the seal segment relative to the engine casing; and, an axial restrictor which prevents axial movement of the seal segment relative to the engine casing, the axis being the principal rotational axis of the engine, wherein the fore and aft retention features are slidably engaged with a carrier segment or engine casing from a common direction. Also described is a gas turbine engine having the shroud arrangement. |
| US09689270B2 |
Duplex-phase CrAl coating for improved corrosion/oxidation protection
Disclosed is a coating for protecting a component against high temperatures and aggressive media, which coating has at least one subregion whose main constituent is chromium. The layer additionally comprises aluminum, the chromium content at least in the subregion in which chromium is the main constituent being greater than 30% by weight and the aluminum content being greater than or equal to 5% by weight. The invention further provides a process for producing such a coating, comprising chromizing the surface to be coated and subsequently alitizing the chromium-rich layer produced during chromizing. |
| US09689269B2 |
Leading edge protector
A component of a gas turbine engine is provided. The component has a leading edge with two air-washed surfaces extending rearwardly therefrom to define opposing sides of the component. The component has a leading edge protector formed as a plurality of protector segments which succeed in a line along the leading edge. Each protector segment includes a sheath which covers the leading edge and the air-washed surfaces at regions adjacent the leading edge. Each protector segment overlaps with the neighboring sheath of the succeeding segment. |
| US09689267B2 |
Blade wheel for a rotary electric machine and rotary electric machine comprising a blade wheel
A blade wheel for a rotary electric machine may include a hollow cylindrical main body having an outer surface extending around an axis of rotation in a circumferential direction of the main body; a first end region and a second end region of the main body, each peripherally extending around the main body in the circumferential direction, the first and second end regions lying opposite each other in the direction of the axis of rotation; a recess extending along the outer surface and between the first end region and the second end region of the main body in the circumferential direction; and at least one web-shaped vortexing element extending within the recess and between the first and second end regions. The at least one vortexing element is designed to generate a movement of air away from the outer surface when the blade wheel rotates about the axis of rotation. |
| US09689258B2 |
Water-preserved-mining roof-contacted filling method for controlling fissure of overlying strata and surface subsidence
A water-preserved-mining roof-contacted filling method for controlling fissure of overlying strata and surface subsidence. The method is suitable for controlling fissure of overlying strata and surface subsidence in water-preserved-mining of a mine. A sensor is mounted at the top of a goaf of a filling working face where water-preserved-mining is carried out, and a filling body that is filled is monitored through a stress display device so as to determine whether the goaf is roof-contacted or separated. When the filling body is separated after roof-contacted, the goaf is filled for the second time so as to be roof-contacted fully, so that the purpose of controlling fissure of overlying strata and surface subsidence can be achieved, and protective mining of water resources of the mine can be realized at last. The method is simple and targeted, and has strong operability and high efficiency. |
| US09689256B2 |
Core orientation systems and methods
Methods and systems for evaluating the subterranean formation of a wellbore are provided. In one embodiment, a geographical orientation of a downhole tool relative to Earth may be determined. The downhole tool may include a coring tool positioned to extract a core sample from a formation of the Earth. The orientation of the core sample with respect to the downhole tool also may be determined. Further, based on the geographical orientation of the downhole tool and the orientation of the coring sample, a geographical orientation of the core sample with respect to the Earth may be determined. |
| US09689252B2 |
Autonomous painted joint simulator and method to reduce the time required to conduct a subsea dummy run
A system and method utilizing a painted joint simulator to reduce the time required to conduct a dummy run in order to space out subsea test equipment within a blow-out preventer. In certain embodiments, a heavy weight fluid is injected into a chamber of the joint in order to assist in its downhole descent speed. In other embodiment, a high pressure fluid is injected into a second chamber of the joint in order to force the heavy weight fluid out of the joint in order to assists in the assent back to the surface. Other embodiments include an umbrella assembly that assists in the descent or assent of the painted joint. |
| US09689237B2 |
Dual barrier perforating system
A system and method for use in used in oil and gas wellbores is provided. More specifically, the disclosure relates to barriers or seals used in downhole operations involving activities such as perforating operations and well abandonment operations. The system and method relate to sealing a borehole such as when a well is being abandoned at the end of its productive life. The embodiments are particularly applicable to boreholes containing casing with an inner wall and an outer wall wherein an annulus is formed between the outer wall of the casing and the borehole wall. |
| US09689235B1 |
Safe, directional, drought-resistant dug well (SDDW)
A well structure for providing drinking water. The well structure includes slotted horizontal collectors connected laterally to a fitting connector. A well casing is connected to a top of the fitting connector. The fitting connector is positioned in a bottom of the well bore such that the horizontal collectors are perpendicular to groundwater flow. Crushed stones are deposited in a lower portion of the well bore and allow groundwater to flow down and into the slots of the horizontal collectors. A geotextile filter fabric is placed over the crushed-stone fill. A pump is placed in the well casing to pump the groundwater to the land surface. A loam soil fill is deposited over the geotextile filter fabric. A seal is placed around the well casing under the land surface. A vented, removable cap with a rubber seal is placed over a top of the well casing and secured. |
| US09689227B2 |
Methods of adjusting the rate of galvanic corrosion of a wellbore isolation device
A wellbore isolation device comprises a first material and pieces of a second material, wherein the first material: is a metal or a metal alloy; forms a matrix of the portion of the wellbore isolation device; and partially or wholly dissolves when an electrically conductive path exists between the first material and the second material and at least a portion of the first and second materials are in contact with the electrolyte, wherein the pieces of the second material: are a metal or metal alloy; and are embedded within the matrix of the first material; wherein the first material and the second material form a galvanic couple and wherein the first material is the anode and the second material is the cathode of the couple. The isolation device can also include a bonding agent for bonding the pieces of the second material into the matrix of the first material. |
| US09689221B2 |
Packer setting tool
A setting tool comprises a centralizer section, a latching section configured to selectively engage the packer, and a setting section configured to provide a setting force to the packer through the setting sleeve. The centralizer section is configured to centralize a setting sleeve within a packer, and the centralizer section is configured to control the rate at which the setting sleeve engages the packer. |
| US09689219B2 |
Methods for autonomously activating a shifting tool
A method for activating a shifting tool comprises introducing a shifting tool in a desired wellbore zone where it is exposed to a pre-determined hydrostatic pressure. The shifting tool comprises at least one key that is configured to be expanded and released from a retracted position when the shifting tool is subjected to the pre-determined hydrostatic pressure. |
| US09689218B1 |
Drill cuttings diverter system
A drill cuttings diverter system for distributing downhole drill cuttings inside a cuttings box, where the drill cuttings diverter system is equipped with a diverter conduit having a bottom that is concaved toward a side opening. The diverter conduit is rotatably inserted through an opening in the cuttings box so that the operator can rotate the side opening at the bottom of the diverter conduit to change the direction of the drill cuttings being fed into the cuttings box, and thereby prevent the drill cuttings from accumulating in a single pile inside the cuttings box. |
| US09689216B2 |
Method and apparatus for automated connection of a fluid conduit
A connection assembly for automated lifting and positioning of a chiksan or other fluid conduit in proximity to a fluid inlet of a device such as, for example, a cement head. Once a chiksan or other flow line is positioned in a desired location, a secure connection is made between the outlet of the chiksan or other fluid conduit and the fluid inlet of a cement head including, without limitation, when the cement head is positioned at an elevated location above a rig floor. |
| US09689214B2 |
Crowns for earth-boring casing shoes, earth-boring casing shoes, and methods of forming earth-boring casing shoes
Earth-boring casing shoes include a crown configured for at least one of drilling and reaming a wellbore when the crown is attached to a section of casing and the casing is advanced into a wellbore. The crown includes a body comprising a corrodible composite material, and at least one cutting structure carried on the body. The casing shoes further include a connection structure configured for attachment to a section of casing. Methods are used to form such casing shoes, and such casing shoes are used to install casing within wellbores. |
| US09689213B2 |
Adjustable straight blade stabilizer
A drill string stabilizer has an elongated cavity formed in an exterior surface of the body. An elongated blade is generally disposed to extend from the cavity. The blade is extended or retracted by rotating a stud threaded on opposite ends with left and right handed threads. Rotation of the stud causes axial movement of slide blocks threadingly engaged to the stud. A follower and track between the body and the slide blocks causes the slide blocks to slidingly engage the body. The blade track is inclined relative to the body track so that the blade radially retracts or extends relative to the body as blocks are moved along their respective tracks by rotation of the stud. The position of each stabilizer blade is independent of the other blades. |
| US09689211B2 |
Connector device for use in wireline intervention operations
A wireline connector device (10) for use in wireline intervention operations comprises a housing (18) connected to a first wireline conduit (L), a piston sleeve (46) located within the housing, and a collet device (60) configured to receive and retain a second wireline conduit, the collet device having a plurality of collet fingers (58) arranged within the piston sleeve, which is movable within the housing to open and close the collet fingers. Optionally a restrictor (57) can be configured to control the movement of the piston sleeve, and can be adjustable to lock the piston sleeve in the second position when the collet fingers are closed around the second wireline conduit. Typically at least one indicator rod (55) projects from the housing, and the piston sleeve engages indictor rod in the second position. |
| US09689209B2 |
Large gauge concentric underreamer
A downhole tool and associated methods. The downhole tool includes a body with a throughbore; at least one extendable cutting member; and an actuation member. The actuation member is operatively associated with the extendable cutting member and movable relative to the body to extend the cutting member laterally from the body along an extension axis. The extension axis is offset from a radius of the body. |
| US09689207B2 |
Systems and methods for wellbore optimization
Systems and methods for wellbore optimization, which include numerical procedures for selecting an optimal wellbore trajectory and casing strength based on Formation Loading Potential. |
| US09689206B2 |
Ladder safety device for use with gutters
A ladder safety device and kit includes gutter grabber devices that attach to a gutter. The gutter grabber devices are mounted on the gutter lip and fit the ladder's rail to neutralize side to side movement as the ladder rail potentially can slide across the gutter's edge as the user climbs it and mounts the roof. The safety device also includes a ratchet and lashing strap device to hold the ladder firmly to the gutter when any force, such as accidental kickback, pushes the ladder away from the gutter. Working in tandem, the gutter grabber devices and the safety strap with a ratchet and hooks virtually eliminate significant side to side as well as front to back movement of the ladder, preventing the ladder from slipping, while having a convenient and compact design allowing it to be carried around easily by the user. |
| US09689205B2 |
Ladder accessory
A ladder accessory device for insertion into an opening in a prior art ladder rung, wherein the ladder accessory device provides an elevated work environment that is out of the path of an individual ascending/descending the ladder. The accessory device is preferably comprised of a rung insert, a rung insert locking device, a support arm, a platform arm, and a platform arm locking device. The rung insert locking device permits the support arm to be rotated about the rung insert locking device, and the platform arm is likewise rotatable about the support arm. A wide arrange of accessories may also be removably attached to the platform to increase the overall usefulness of the device. |
| US09689204B2 |
Stepladder
A stepladder provided with a coupling frame in the shape of an equilateral triangle, a front support, a rear right support, a rear left support, and spread stoppers for stopping the front support, the rear right support, and the rear left support from spreading. The front support is rotationally attached to a front shaft of the coupling frame, the rear right fixing member is rotationally attached to a right shaft, and the rear left fixing member is rotationally attached to a left shaft. The rear left support and the rear right support are detachably mounted to the rear left fixing member and the rear right fixing member, respectively. The supports of the stepladder are coupled by the spread stoppers, whereby the three supports are restricted from being displaced forward, to the right rear, and to the left rear. |
| US09689203B1 |
Barrier opening system for emergency escape and rescue
A barrier opening system for emergency escape and rescue comprises a vertical acting barrier device, an escape device, and a rescue device, the vertical acting barrier device winds a barrier via a winding shaft; a prestressed spring preloaded on the winding shaft for storing a restoring force when the barrier is unwound by the winding shaft; a brake mechanism for stopping the winding shaft from rotating; a brake release mechanism for releasing the winding shaft under an abnormal condition; an escape device comprising an identification unit and a master key for activating the brake release mechanism; the identification unit identifies a rescue personnel's identity before allowing the personnel to use the master key to activate the brake release mechanism; when the emergency button and/or the master key activate(s) the brake release mechanism to release the winding shaft, the barrier can be lifted up by the restoring force. |
| US09689197B1 |
Latch apparatus with independent identical opposing latches
The present latch apparatus includes a swinging piece having first and second independent latches or sliders sliding in first and second slots. The first and second sliders slide independently of each other. The first and second sliders engage an undersurface of an extension of a first object such as a gate. If either the first or second slider is engaged on the undersurface, the swinging piece is locked and is not swingable such that the first object such as the gate cannot itself swing away from a second object such as a barrier section. Only when each of the first and second sliders has been slid beyond the undersurface can the swinging piece swing to permit the first object such as the gate to be released and thus swingable itself relative to the second object such as the barrier section. |
| US09689196B2 |
Assembly equipment line and method for windows
The technology disclosed herein generally relate to assembly equipment for window units. In one embodiment, a window unit assembly system is taught that has a frame component that is configured to support equipment for a window unit assembly line. A pane conveyor is supported by the frame component and is configured to move panes along the window unit assembly line. A spacer conveyor is supported by the same frame component as the pane conveyor and is configured to move spacer elements along the window unit assembly line. |
| US09689191B1 |
Power tailgate control device and method
A power tailgate control device and method can prevent a collision with an obstacle during the opening or closing of a tailgate by determining whether an obstacle is present or not and whether the collision with the obstacle would occur or not by using a rear lamp and a rear camera. The power tailgate control device includes: a command input unit receiving a tailgate open or close command from an operator; a rear camera mounted on a tailgate; and a controller controlling the opening or closing of the tailgate by determining whether a collision with an obstacle would occur or not, on the basis of R values of pixels in a difference image between a first image captured in a state in which a rear lamp is turned on and a second image captured in a state in which the rear lamp is turned off. |
| US09689190B2 |
Intelligent control system for remote control of doors and windows
The present invention provides an intelligent control system for remote control of doors and windows, comprising an intelligent control end, a server and a control terminal of doors and windows. The intelligent control end sends a remote control command to the control terminal of doors and windows through the server. The control terminal of doors and windows processes the received remote control command and executes a corresponding control action to finish remote control of doors and windows, wherein the control terminal of doors and windows comprises an MCU. The MCU is connected with a signal receiving/transmission component, a mechanical component for control of doors and windows, a detection component of doors and windows, a position detection component of doors and windows and an anti-theft component. In the intelligent control system for remote control of doors and windows of the present invention, the intelligent control end sends a control signal to a remote control terminal of doors and windows for realizing remote control of doors and windows. The intelligent control system has the characteristics of simple system design, ultra-low power consumption and large-scale use, and can be used for remote control of diversified doors and windows like skylights, flat open doors and windows, doors and windows opened inside and outside, sliding doors and windows, etc. |
| US09689189B1 |
Gate system and apparatus
The present invention relates to a gate. More specifically, the present invention relates to a gate having at least one arm, wherein the at least one arm is configured to extend and retract. When the at least one arm is substantially extended, the at least one arm substantially prevents access through the gate. When the at least one arm is substantially retracted, the at least one arm no longer substantially prevents access through the gate. |
| US09689187B2 |
Multiple direction railroad gate release mechanism
A multiple direction railroad gate release mechanism which is attached between the mount arms of a railroad gate actuator and a crossing arm to prevent breakage of the crossing arm due to impingement in either a frontal or rearward direction by a vehicle or other outside force. A primary pivot arm assembly allows a released movement of the crossing arm in reaction to frontal impingement and returns the crossing arm to the original and detent position subsequent to an impingement in order to maintain grade crossing protection. Spring assemblies, a shock absorber and a spring centering assembly act to return the primary pivot arm assembly and attached crossing arm to a normal detent position. A secondary pivot arm assembly is secured to the primary pivot arm assembly whereby the secondary pivot arm assembly can act independently of the primary pivot arm assembly to allow released movement and return of the crossing arm in reaction to rear impingement. |
| US09689182B2 |
Vehicle door latch controller
A vehicle door latch controller is provided in which the operation of a latch release electric motor for driving a ratchet is controlled so as to pivot the ratchet from the ratchet engagement position to the ratchet release position in response to detecting a latch release intention of the vehicle driver in a fully-latched state, wherein a control unit actuates the latch release electric motor so as to pivot the ratchet to the ratchet engagement position after a predetermined time has elapsed since it has detected that the ratchet is at the ratchet release position and actuation of the latch release electric motor has been stopped after the latch release electric motor has started actuating so as to pivot the ratchet from the ratchet engagement position to the ratchet release position. Such controller prevents opening a door undesirably, even if releasing of a latched state is erroneously carried out. |
| US09689179B2 |
Padlock having a blocking plate for a spring-biased locking element
A padlock including a lock body, a shackle having two shanks with grooves for receipt of respective locking elements, and a pin which can be rotated by a lock cylinder core for moving the locking elements into their locking position. The pin has an engagement element configured to cooperate with an entrainer formation on the lock cylinder core. The padlock also includes a blocking plate located between the pin and the lock cylinder core and which is fastened in the lock body. The blocking plate has an opening through which the entrainer formation projects into the plane of the engagement element. The opening is configured such that, on the one hand, rotational movement of the lock cylinder core is possible and, on the other hand, a marginal region of the opening forms an abutment engageable with the entrainer formation for restricting rotational movement of the lock cylinder core. |
| US09689178B2 |
Lock with linearly operating latch
A lock is provided, the lock having: a lock mechanism having a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member each being slidably mounted to a housing of the combination lock, wherein the first member is capable of movement between a first position and a second position and the second member is capable of movement between a first position and a second position and wherein movement of the first member from the first position to the second position causes the second member to move from the first position to the second position; a bolt configured for movement between a locking position and an unlocking position, the bolt preventing the second member from moving from the second position to the first position when the bolt is in the locking position. |
| US09689177B2 |
Rackable fencing of components optimized for preassembly shipping
A rackable fence is provided with a rail, picket carrier, and plurality of pickets. The rail defines a rigid inverted U-shaped cross-section. The picket carrier includes a top span residing within and extending across the interior of the rail. The pickets are pivotally attached to the picket carrier and pivotable toward the rail. |
| US09689175B2 |
Tower assembly and method for assembling tower structure
A structure including at least two structural components arranged to form a channel therebetween, a post tensioning element configured to compress the at least two elements with respect to each other, and a thixotropic filler material located within the channel. |
| US09689173B2 |
Structure attached with vibration control device
A construction component provided with a vibration damper includes a quadrangular frame in a front elevational view including four structural members, and the vibration damper includes: a vibration damping tool provided inside the frame; and four braces radially extending from the vibration damping tool and connected to the frame. The vibration energy deforming the frame is transmitted via the braces to the vibration damping tool to plastically deform the vibration damping tool, thereby absorbing the vibration energy in the vibration damping tool to damp vibration. The construction component further includes a bridging member configured to bridge a gap between two facing members of the four structural members. A part of the bridging member configured to overlap with the vibration damping tool in the front elevational view is defined as an interference avoidance portion in which interference between the part and the vibration damping tool is avoided. |
| US09689169B2 |
Illuminating a concrete structure
A method for constructing a concrete structure with light sources embedded therein is provided. An array of light sources with associated circuitry is positioned on a support member. A mold is positioned around the light sources and the associated circuitry on the support member. A binder material is filled in the mold containing the light sources and the associated circuitry on the support member to embed the light sources and the associated circuitry within the binder material. The binder material is allowed to set within the mold containing the embedded light sources and the associated circuitry. The mold and the support member are then removed to obtain the concrete structure embedded with the light sources and the associated circuitry. The embedded light sources illuminate the concrete structure when the embedded light sources are powered on. A decorative upper layer may be created by marbling, veining, etc., in the concrete structure. |
| US09689167B2 |
Tile leveler
A tile leveler contains a pressing seat, a retainer, and a direction changing unit. The pressing seat includes a protruded post extending upwardly from a top thereof, a threaded orifice defined in the protruded post, and a rotary extension extending outwardly from the protruded post. The retainer includes a connecting column formed on a top thereof, a connection rod defined on a middle section thereof, an inserting plate arranged on a bottom thereof, and two retaining portions, wherein each retaining portion is formed on each of two sides of a top of the inserting plate. The direction changing unit includes a first direction changer and a second direction changer which contact with each other. The first direction changer has a first recess, a first slot, and first outer threads. The second direction changer has a second recess, a second slot, and second outer threads. |
| US09689165B2 |
Self supportive panel system
A self supporting panel system used to fabricate ceilings, floors, walls, or roofs. The panel system is assembled from a plurality of panels, each having a core that is sandwiched between opposing plate members. In a preferred embodiment, the core of each panel includes a unifying material to enhance the load bearing capacity of the panel. |
| US09689164B2 |
Modular roof panel with integrated drainage system
A roof panel includes a planar body having top and bottom edges, with a downturn edge extending therebetween, and an opposing channel edge. The downturn edge overlays a channel edge of an adjacent panel. The bottom edge overlays a top edge of another adjacent panel. A plurality of courses extends between the channel and downturn edges. Each course includes a nesting ridge to receive the downturn edge of an adjacent panel and to position a top surface of the panel flush with adjacent panels. Surface channels and contoured ridges are defined within each course. A drain aperture of the drip edge aligns with an adjacent channel edge to direct material through the drain aperture and onto adjacent panels. A gable member engages an edge when the panel has one or fewer laterally adjacent panels, wherein the gable member is flush with the adjacent planar body. |
| US09689163B2 |
Tapered truss
A tapered truss is provided. In one embodiment, the truss has a pair of base members configured to be attached to a top surface of a vertical support member. The truss may further have an upper pair of truss members and a lower pair of truss members. Each upper truss member each forms an acute angle with a respective base member and each lower truss member forms an obtuse angle from the respective base member such that the lower truss member is not parallel to the upper truss member. The truss may additionally include a ceiling joist member connected to each of the lower truss members. In one embodiment, the ceiling joist member is substantially parallel to the pair of base members. |
| US09689156B2 |
Plumbing fixture having modular control housing
Disclosed is a plumbing fixture (e.g. a bidet or toilet) of the type having a frontal basin and means for directing a supply of water to the basin for cleaning the basin. The plumbing fixture includes a modular housing mountable behind the basin and at least one control positioned in the modular housing to control operation of the plumbing fixture. The control may be selected from the group Consisting of light controls, bidet wand position controls, bidet wand heated air supply controls, bidet wand water supply controls, lid position movement controls, seat position movement controls, deodorizer controls, audio device controls and ultra violet sanitizer controls. |
| US09689142B2 |
Radial pattern mechanically adjustable blade pitch mount
A vehicle blade assembly apparatus including a push beam; a blade having a working side and a connection side; an anchoring bracket disposed on the connection side of the blade and having a plurality of mounting bores arranged along an arc around a retention hole; and a pitch link connected to the push beam and to the anchoring bracket using a retention pin configured to be removably placed through co-linear mounting bores on the pitch link and the anchoring bracket. |
| US09689141B2 |
Controlling a crowd parameter of an industrial machine
An industrial machine that includes a dipper, a dipper handle, a boom, a crowd motor, a hoist motor, a swing motor, a first sensor, a second sensor, and a controller. The first sensor generates a first signal related to a dipper handle angle and the second sensor generates a second signal related to a hoist rope angle. The first signal and the second signal are received by the controller. The controller determines, based on the first and second signals, a retract torque value. The retract torque value is compared to a retract torque threshold values. If the retract torque value is greater or equal to the threshold value, the retract torque of the crowd motor is set to a maximum value. If the retract torque is less than the threshold value, the retract torque of the crowd motor is set to a default value. |
| US09689137B2 |
Trenching shovel
The trenching shovel is narrow at its digging end so that a lot less dirt is required to be removed. The trenching shovel has a three sided blade and the shovel point has a concave, sharp edge which partially wraps around a root to permit cutting of the root without the blade slipping off. The three sides are also angled slightly outward to help prevent dirt from sticking to the channel of the shovel and to compact the side edges of the trench to prevent collapse of the sidewalls into the formed trench. |
| US09689135B2 |
Closure for locking a covering
Coverings for structures which can be installed in the ground are known. In order to lock the covering on the structure, closures are known which comprise a snap bolt which is designed in such a way and is mounted movably on the covering (20) against the force of a spring device in such a way that, during closing of the covering (20), the snap bolt is forced back and snaps in behind a counterbearing (14, 14′) fixed to the structure in a closure position. To simplify the arrangement and also to improve durability, it is proposed that the snap bolt is mounted in a housing (40) which can be fastened in a housing receptacle of the covering (20). |
| US09689130B1 |
Submersible bulkhead system and method of operating system
A bulkhead system and a method of implementing such a bulkhead system in relation to a dam are disclosed herein. In one example embodiment, such a method includes providing a plurality of bulkhead sections assembled together as a bulkhead assembly, and coupling first side, second side, and bottom assemblies respectively to a first end, second end, and bottom surface respectively of the bulkhead assembly. Further, the method includes causing a first of the bulkhead sections to receive a respective amount of ballast within an internal cavity therewithin, receiving water pressure at an upstream surface of the bulkhead assembly such that the bulkhead system is forced against the dam and substantially sealed in relation thereto, and operating to counteract the water pressure and thereby prevent or limit the flow of water past the dam, where the operating is performed at least in part by the side assemblies and bottom assembly. |
| US09689127B2 |
Snow melting assembly
A snow melting assembly includes a cart that may contain snow thereby facilitating the snow to be melted. A lid is hingedly coupled to the cart such that the lid is positionable between an open position and a closed position. An agitation unit is coupled to the cart such that the agitation unit may stir the snow within the cart. A heating unit is coupled to the cart such that the heating unit may melt the snow within the cart. A plurality of wheels is coupled to the cart such that the cart may be rolled along a support surface. A handle is movably coupled to the cart such that the handle may be manipulated. |
| US09689122B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly
Reinforcement devices and systems for holding a traffic control assembly in compression are provided. The traffic control assembly includes a traffic signal disconnect hanger and/or a traffic signal and a first span wire positioned above the traffic control assembly. In some embodiments, the reinforcement device includes an upper support device connected to the first span wire where the upper support device has a length that is greater than a width of the traffic control assembly and the upper support device is configured to spread the load of the traffic signal assembly to the first span wire. The reinforcement device includes a lower support device operably connected to the traffic signal, a first vertical support member, and a second vertical support member where the first and second vertical members are tensioned when the upper support device, the lower support device and the first and second vertical support members are connected together. |
| US09689118B2 |
Apparatus and method for a joint density bolt-on assembly
A joint density assembly adapted for use on a screed comprising an endgate having a vertical axis, a frame mounted to the screed, a mounting means adapted to mount the frame to the screed, and a fixed shoe, a bolt-on unit mounted to the screed and disposed between the screed and the endgate, and a means for adjusting the bolt-on unit between a downward position and an upward position. A method for increasing the density of an asphalt longitudinal joint comprising providing a joint density assembly and adjusting the bolt-on unit. |
| US09689116B2 |
Rail track sleeper support
A support (32) adapted to be used in place of ballast in supporting a rail support member (31) of a rail track comprises a body (50). The body (50) includes a lower face (70) for resting on a support surface, and an upper surface (71) for supporting the rail support member (31). |
| US09689115B2 |
Sizing of paperboard
Substrates for paperboard packing with improved internal sizing including the use of a combination of a dispersed rosin size (DRS) with an alkenylsuccinic anhydride size for reducing edgewicking with less use of the sizing agents. |
| US09689109B2 |
Steam generator and laundry treatment apparatus including the same
A method of the present disclosure includes a first operation of supplying hot air to laundry until the dryness of the laundry has reached a predetermined standard dryness, and a second operation of alternately performing a moisture supply operation of supplying moisture to the laundry and a hot air supply operation of supplying hot air to the laundry. |
| US09689108B2 |
Dryer duct connector
A connector including a first member having a cylindrical portion and a second member having a cylindrical portion that is frictionally engageable with the first member. |
| US09689106B2 |
Antimicrobial fabric application system
An antimicrobial supply system employs a process water supply and incorporates a metallic ion supply connected to the process water supply to provide a high ion concentrate to an output. A dilution reservoir is connected to the metallic ion supply output and has an input from the process water supply. A pump is connected to an output of the reservoir. A manifold connected to the pump provides a dilute concentrate to at least one washing system. An electronics control module is connected to a first flow controller between the process water supply and the metallic ion supply and a second flow controller between the metallic ion supply and the reservoir for dilution control establishing a desired metallic ion concentration. |
| US09689105B2 |
Automatic dispenser for detergent and chlorine additives
An additive dispenser for an automatic washing machine includes a container with a compartment for a wash additive. The compartment has a siphon system and a water fall on a wall of the compartment. A flow homogenizing system at the entrance of the dispenser includes: (a) a connection nozzle with an inner part, where the connection nozzle allows communication with a source of wash water, and the inner part of the connection nozzle has two areas with a different size to produce a Venturi effect; and (b) a damping tank with a container and a cover. The homogenizing system homogenize the wash water flow which enters. A perimeter pathway for the transfer of the wash water is formed by the container and the cover; and a deflector to direct the wash water flow which travels through the perimeter pathway. |
| US09689104B2 |
Washing machine system and washing method
A system including an enclosure of a washing machine, a drum within the enclosure, a mixing unit, within the enclosure but separate from the drum and in fluid communication with the drum, a water supply unit coupled to the mixing unit, a reservoir having a conduit fluidly coupled to the mixing unit, and a container connecting assembly configured to fix a spout of a container to the reservoir. An apparatus including a reservoir, external to a washing machine, to receive a liquid wash aid, a container connecting assembly coupled to the reservoir and configured to fix a spout of a container containing liquid wash aid to the reservoir, a flexible conduit to pass liquid wash aid from the reservoir to the washing machine, and a wash aid control unit connected to the flexible conduit and adapted to meter a flow of liquid wash aid from the reservoir to the washing machine. |
| US09689103B2 |
Industrial washer door locking mechanism and system
This disclosure is directed to a washer that will not start the wash sequence until each door is securely fastened shut. In exemplary embodiment, the washer may include at least one door having a locking mechanism that has at least one locking pin. The locking pin may be moved from an unlocked position to a locked position. When the door is shut, the locking pin may be received in a locking pin slot that is disposed in the body of the washer. The locking mechanism may also include a locking bracket that may be engaged with a locking hasp only when the locking pin is in the locked position. The washer may also include a sensor in communication with the controller. The controller only permits the operation of the washer when the sensor detects the locking bracket is engaged with the locking hasp. |
| US09689101B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating laundry items
A laundry treating appliance having a rotatable treating chamber in which laundry is received for treatment, and a controller programmed to execute an automatic cycle of operation that includes spraying a pre-wash mixture comprising water and a color care agent onto the laundry to cover the laundry with the color care agent to protect the laundry from dyes released from the laundry during the wash phase. |
| US09689093B2 |
Knitting apparatus
A loom knitting apparatus that enables the user to complete the action of creating a purl or knit stitch on a loom in one fluid step, thereby speeding up the knitting process is provided. The knitting apparatus may include a handle coupled to an arm extending therefrom along a longitudinal axis. The distal end of the arm provides a first hook portion and a second hook portion, wherein the hook portions diverge away from each other along a shared plane, forming supplementary angles relative to the longitudinal axis. The angle of each hook portion is less than or greater than a right angle relative to the longitudinal axis by a predetermined range so as to enable the manipulation of knitting stitches and working stands in the one-step formation of the purl or knit stitches on the loom. |
| US09689090B2 |
Open-end spinning rotor with a rotor cup, a rotor shaft and a coupling device
In an open-end spinning rotor with a rotor cup, and with a rotor shaft, through which the spinning rotor is supported in a bearing, the rotor shaft and the rotor cup are detachably connected to each other through a coupling device. The coupling device includes a positive-locking connection for the transmission of the turning moment between the rotor cup and the rotor shaft, along with a magnetic device for the axial connection of the rotor shaft and the rotor cup. The rotor shaft features at least one projection with a one turning moment-transmitting area, which engages in a recess of the rotor cup with a turning moment-transmitting counter-area. A socket for a permanent magnet is arranged on the rotor cup. |
| US09689086B2 |
Electrode for polishing hollow tube, and electrolytic polishing method using same
A wing electrode is configured by disposing at least a wing in a circumferential direction at equal intervals, the wing having a specific width in an axial direction of the electrode shaft and a tip in a shape corresponding to an inner surface of the hollow tube. A housing tube is arranged concentrically to the electrode shaft and to house the wing electrode by winding the respective wings around the electrode shaft. A slit of the housing tube is arranged in the axial direction so as to correspond to each wing. A diameter adjustment unit is operable to expand and contract each wing in the radial direction by rotating the electrode shaft and the housing tube relatively after inserting each wing into the slit of the housing tube. As a matter of course, the electrolyte is filled in the hollow tube at any time before the electrolytic treatment. |
| US09689083B2 |
TSV bath evaluation using field versus feature contrast
The embodiments herein relate to methods and apparatus for determining whether a particular test bath is able to successfully fill a feature on a substrate. In various cases, the substrate is a semiconductor substrate and the feature is a through-silicon-via. Generally, two experiments are used: a first experiment simulates the conditions present in a field region of the substrate during the fill process, and the second experiment simulates the conditions present in a feature on the substrate during the fill process. The output from these experiments may be used with various techniques to predict whether the particular bath will result in an adequately filled feature. |
| US09689081B2 |
Electroplating bath and method for producing dark chromium layers
The invention relates to methods and plating baths for electrodepositing a dark chromium layer on a workpiece. The trivalent chromium electroplating baths comprise sulphur compounds and the methods for electrodepositing a dark chromium layer employ these trivalent chromium electroplating baths. The dark chromium deposits and workpieces carrying dark chromium deposits are suited for application for decorative purposes. |
| US09689080B2 |
Layered alkali iridate, layered iridic acid, and iridium oxide nanosheet
Provided is a layered alkali iridate and a layered iridic acid to be used for producing iridium oxide nanosheets, and an iridium oxide nanosheet. A layered alkali iridate with composition of MxIrOy.nH2O (where M is a monovalent metal, x is 0.1 to 0.5, y is 1.5 to 2.5, and n is 0.5 to 1.5), wherein MxIrOy.nH2O has a layered structure. The M is potassium, and the layered alkali iridate has diffraction peaks at 2θ diffraction angles of 13.0° and 26.0°. A layered iridic acid with a composition of HxIrOy.nH2O (where x is 0.1 to 0.5, y is 1.5 to 2.5, and n is 0 to 1), wherein HxIrOy.nH2O has a layered structure. This layered iridic acid has diffraction peaks at 2θ diffraction angles of 12.3° and 24.6°. A single crystalline iridium oxide nanosheet having a thickness of 3 nm or less. |
| US09689073B2 |
Electroless plating system including bubble guide
A roll-to-roll electroless plating system, including a plating tank containing plating solution, and a web advance system for advancing a web of media along a web-transport path that passes through the plating tank. One or more fluid guides are positioned within the plating tank to redirect plating fluid containing gas bubbles introduced by a gas bubble source away from the web of media as it is advanced through the plating solution in the plating tank. |
| US09689070B2 |
Deposition ring and electrostatic chuck for physical vapor deposition chamber
Embodiments of the invention generally relate to a process kit for a semiconductor processing chamber, and a semiconductor processing chamber having a kit. More specifically, embodiments described herein relate to a process kit including a deposition ring and a pedestal assembly. The components of the process kit work alone, and in combination, to significantly reduce their effects on the electric fields around a substrate during processing. |
| US09689069B2 |
Coating system including diffusion barrier layer including iridium and oxide layer
In some examples, an article may include a superalloy substrate and a coating on the superalloy substrate. In accordance with this example, the coating includes a diffusion barrier layer on the substrate and a wear resistant oxide layer over the diffusion barrier layer. The diffusion barrier layer may include iridium and the wear resistant oxide layer may include at least one of silica, zirconia, or chromia. |
| US09689067B2 |
Method for producing molybdenum target
Provided is a method by which a low-oxygen and high-density molybdenum target can be efficiently obtained, while fully utilizing the characteristics of each molybdenum (Mo) starting material powder. The present invention provides a method for producing a molybdenum target, wherein a mixed powder that is obtained by mixing a molybdenum powder A, which is prepared by reducing molybdenum oxide and then crushing the resulting so as to have an average particle diameter of 2-15 μm, and a molybdenum powder B, which is prepared by crushing a molybdenum bulk starting material having a density of not less than 6.64×10 (kg/m3) so as to have an average particle diameter of 50-2,000 μm, is sintered under pressure. |
| US09689062B2 |
Resource saving-type titanium alloy member possessing improved strength and toughness and method for manufacturing the same
“To provide, at low cost, a resource saving-type titanium alloy that uses alloy elements more abundant in resources and more inexpensively available compared to conventional titanium alloys, and, when added even in a smaller amount than the conventional alloys, can simultaneously realize both high strength and high toughness. Provided is a titanium alloy member having excellent strength and toughness, consisting of, in mass %, Al: more than or equal to 4.5% and less than 5.5%, Fe: more than or equal to 1.3% and less than 2.3%, Si: more than or equal to 0.25% and less than 0.50%, O: more than or equal to 0.05% and less than 0.25%, and the balance: titanium and unavoidable impurities. The titanium alloy member has a microscopic structure that is an acicular structure having an acicular α phase with a mean width of less than 5 pm.” |
| US09689049B2 |
Electric heating device
Disclosed is an electric heating device capable of uniformly applying an electric current to a workpiece without causing abrasion of electrodes. An electric heating device includes a pair of electrodes for applying an electric current to a workpiece, and a pair of clamps for fixing the workpiece. The electrode extends along the surface of the workpiece in a direction perpendicular to an electric current direction while maintaining a constant length in the electric current direction, and sandwiches the workpiece therein. The clamp is arranged in the vicinity of the electrode, and sandwiches a part of the workpiece other than a part to be heated therein. A pressure at which the clamp sandwiches the workpiece therein is higher than a pressure at which the electrode sandwiches the workpiece therein. |
| US09689043B2 |
Method for treating muscle-invasive bladder cancer, containing S100A9 and EGFR inhibitors and cisplatin as active ingredients
The present invention relates to a method for predicting the probability of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) recurrence or metastasis, a method for providing information on a personalized medicine of MIBC, and a pharmaceutical composition for treating MIBC, containing S100A9 and EGFR inhibitors and cisplatin as active ingredients. According to the present invention, it is possible to accurately predict a prognosis after chemotherapy of an MIBC patient, to provide information on cisplatin sensitivity in the provision of a personalized medicine for chemotherapy of an MIBC patient, and to increase the cisplatin sensitivity of an MIBC patient by concomitantly administering S100A9 and EGFR inhibitors together with a conventional cisplatin. |
| US09689041B2 |
Method and kit for determining in vitro the probability for an individual to suffer from colorectal cancer
The present invention provides a method for determining in vitro, in a peripheral blood sample, the probability for an individual to suffer from a colorectal cancer, using the comparison of the amount of expression products of nucleic acids of genes of the individual to be tested with the amount of expression products of nucleic acids of the same genes obtained from a CRC group of patients constituting the positive control and with the amount of expression products of nucleic acids of the same genes obtained from a CNC group of individuals constituting the negative control; and a kit comprising specific binding partners for said expression products. |
| US09689038B2 |
Method for reversing recent-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) by administering substance P (sP)
Described herein is a treatment comprising the following step: (a) injecting a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition into the celiac artery of an individual, wherein the pharmaceutical composition reverses recent onset Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Also described is a method for identifying an individual who will be responsive to this treatment. In addition there is described a device containing the pharmaceutical composition for injecting the pharmaceutical composition into the celiac artery. |
| US09689037B2 |
Methods and materials for detecting genetic or epigenetic elements
This document provides methods and materials for detecting genetic and/or epigenetic elements. For example, methods and materials for detecting the presence or absence of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element, methods and materials for detecting the amount of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element within a sample, kits for detecting the presence or absence of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element, kits for detecting the amount of target nucleic acid containing a genetic or epigenetic element present within a sample, and methods for making such kits are provided. |
| US09689030B2 |
Polymerase chain reaction detection system
The present invention relates to methods and kits for nucleic acid detection in an assay system. |
| US09689029B2 |
Systems and methods for sampling of amplification products
The invention provides systems and methods for processing samples. In a method, a reaction card is provided that has a channel network, a valve, and a micropump, all disposed within the card. The reaction card also has a collection well disposed on a surface of the card and a tubular member extending out from the card. A reaction vessel is provided and affixed to the reaction card such that the tubular member is inserted into the reaction vessel. Amplification reaction reagents and a sample are delivered into the reaction vessel, and an amplification reaction is initiated within the reaction vessel, resulting in an amplification product being disposed within the reaction vessel. The valve is opened to atmosphere, and the first micropump is activated to pump an aliquot of reaction product from the reaction vessel into the tubular member, through the channel network, and into the collection well. |
| US09689028B2 |
Monochrome multiplex quantitative PCR
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for determining the copy number of a first target nucleic acid as compared to the copy number of a second target nucleic acid in a single well with a single detection label. For example, disclosed herein are methods and compositions for determining the copy number of a first target nucleic acid as compared to the copy number of a second target nucleic acid by a monochrome multiplex quantitative PCR (MMQPCR) in a single well with a single detection label. |
| US09689024B2 |
Methods for droplet-based sample preparation
This disclosure provides microwell capsule array devices. The microwell capsule array devices are generally capable of performing one or more sample preparation operations. Such sample preparation operations may be used as a prelude to one more or more analysis operations. For example, a device of this disclosure can achieve physical partitioning and discrete mixing of samples with unique molecular identifiers within a single unit in preparation for various analysis operations. The device may be useful in a variety of applications and most notably nucleic-acid-based sequencing, detection and quantification of gene expression and single-cell analysis. |
| US09689023B2 |
Methods for molecular detection
This invention relates to methods for molecular detection, particularly to methods utilizing target-specific molecular probes. In exemplary embodiments, target-specific molecular probes include single-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or ribonucleic acid (RNA) aptamers. In general, the molecular probe may bind with relatively high specificity to a given target. In one aspect, a method for molecular detection comprises a molecular probe paired to a reporter molecule wherein the molecular probe impairs the amplification of the reporter molecule in the absence of the target molecule. |
| US09689020B2 |
Method for determining whether or not test sample contains phytopathogenic oomycete
The present invention provides a method for determining whether or not a test sample contains a phytopathogenic oomycete selectively from two kinds of oomycetes of a phytopathogenic oomycete and a non-phytopathogenic oomycete. The method according to the present invention comprises: (a) putting the test sample on a front surface of a cellulose film; wherein the cellulose film has a thickness of not less than 0.5 micrometers and not more than 3.7 micrometers; (b) leaving the test sample at rest for more than 8 hours and not more than 12 hours after the step (a); (c) observing a back surface of the film after the step (b); and (d) determining that the test sample contains the phytopathogenic oomycete, if an oomycete is found on the back surface of the film in the step (c). |
| US09689016B2 |
Method for in vivo production of deglycosylated recombinant proteins used as substrate for downstream protein glycoremodeling
The present invention includes compositions and methods of reducing the glycosylation of proteins comprising: obtaining a cell that expresses one or more proteins that comprise one or more glycosylation sites and are glycosylated; expressing in the cell one or more glycosidases that cleaves one or more glycosyl groups from the one or more proteins; and isolating the one or more proteins with reduced glycosylation from the cell. |
| US09689015B2 |
De-mannosylation of phosphorylated N-glycans
Methods for demannosylating phosphorylated N-glycans on a glycoprotein are described that use a mannosidase capable of hydrolyzing a terminal alpha-1,2 mannose linkage when the underlying mannose is phosphorylated. |
| US09689007B2 |
Process for the fermentative production of lactic acid from a plant extract the presence of a caustic magnesium salt
A method is described for producing lactate or lactic acid from a plant extract, such as oil palm frond extract, via fermentation. In particular, the method includes providing a fermentation medium that includes at least 25 wt. % of a plant extract containing fermentable carbohydrates, fermenting the fermentation medium by means of a lactic acid producing microorganism in the presence of a caustic magnesium salt to provide a fermentation broth containing at the most 9.5 wt. % magnesium lactate at the end of fermentation, the magnesium lactate being in soluble form during and at the end of fermentation; and recovering lactate or lactic acid from the magnesium lactate containing fermentation broth. |
| US09689003B2 |
Dry grind ethanol production process and system with front end milling method
A dry grind ethanol production process and system with front end milling method is provided for improving alcohol and/or by-product yields, such as oil and/or protein yields. In one example, the process includes grinding corn kernels into particles then mixing the corn particles with a liquid to produce a slurry including oil, protein, starch, fiber, germ, and grit. Thereafter, the slurry is subjected to a front end milling method, which includes separating the slurry into a solids portion, including fiber, grit, and germ, and a liquid portion, including oil, protein, and starch, then milling the separated solids portion to reduce the size of the germ and grit and release bound starch, oil, and protein from the solids portion. The starch is converted to sugar, and alcohol is produced therefrom then recovered. Also, the fiber can be separated and recovered. Oil and protein may be separated and recovered as well. |
| US09689002B2 |
Methods for preparing Te(O) from Te(IV) using metal-reducing bacteria and iron ion
Disclosed is a method for preparing Te(O) in a low toxic form from toxic Te(IV) using metal-reducing bacteria and iron ions. According to the present invention, extracellular tellurium nanorods can be prepared through an environmentally friendly process and are able to provide tellurium utilizable in petroleum refining, electronic devices, batteries, and sensors. |
| US09689001B2 |
NOV mini-promoters
Isolated polynucleotides comprising a NOV mini-promoter are provided. The mini-promoter may be operably linked to an expressible sequence, including, but not limited to, reporter genes, genes encoding a polypeptide of interest, and regulatory RNA sequences such as miRNA, siRNA, and anti-sense RNA. In some embodiments a cell comprising a stable integrant of an expression vector is provided, which may be integrated in the genome of the cell. The promoter may also be provided in a vector, for example in combination with an expressible sequence. The polynucleotides find use in a method of expressing a sequence of interest, including, but not limited to, for identifying or labeling cells, monitoring or tracking the expression of cells and gene therapy. |
| US09688999B2 |
Fungal resistant plants expressing ACD
The present invention relates to a method of increasing resistance against fungal pathogens of the family Phacosporaceae in plants and/or plant cells. This is achieved by increasing the expression of an ACD protein or fragment thereof in a plant, plant part and/or plant cell in comparison to wild type plants, wild type plant parts and/or wild type plant cells. Furthermore, the invention relates to transgenic plants, plant parts, and/or plant cells having an increased resistance against fungal pathogens, in particular, pathogens of the family Phacopsoraceae, and to recombinant expression vectors comprising a sequence that is identical or homologous to a sequence encoding an ACD protein. |
| US09688991B2 |
Aptamer-targetted antigen delivery
A composition is provided comprising an oligonucleotide aptamer conjugated to an antigen, wherein the aptamer is directed against a cell-surface target of an antigen-presenting cell. Also provided are methods of delivering an antigen to a dendritic cell and of eliciting an immune response in a subject. |
| US09688990B2 |
Methods and pharmaceutical compositions for treatment of cystic fibrosis
The present invention relates to a method and compositions for the treatment of cystic fibrosis. |
| US09688987B2 |
Antisense oligonucleotides directed against connective tissue growth factor and uses thereof
This invention provides compounds which comprise modified oligonucleotides capable of inhibitory expression of connective tissue factor and composition containing same as well as methods of treating hyperprolific disorders and fibrotic diseases, and of reducing scarring resulting from wound healing using such compounds. |
| US09688984B2 |
SPL16 compositions and methods to increase agronomic performance of plants
Methods and compositions that affect grain shape, width, and yield in rice are disclosed. Methods of transgenic modulation and marker-assisted breeding methods improve grain length to width ratio and grain yield in rice. Down-regulation of OsSPL16 in rice resulted in increased grain quality. |
| US09688983B2 |
Nucleic acid molecules that confer resistance to coleopteran pests
This disclosure concerns nucleic acid molecules and methods of use thereof for control of coleopteran pests through RNA interference-mediated inhibition of target coding and transcribed non-coding sequences in coleopteran pests. The disclosure also concerns methods for making transgenic plants that express nucleic acid molecules useful for the control of coleopteran pests, and the plant cells and plants obtained thereby. |
| US09688980B2 |
Templated molecules and methods for using such molecules
The present invention relates to a method for synthesising templated molecules. In one aspect of the invention, the templated molecules are linked to the template which templated the synthesis thereof. The intion allows the generation of libraries which can be screened for e.g. therapeutic activity. |
| US09688979B2 |
Biomolecule drying process for long-term storage
The present invention relates to a method for producing a storable dry composition of biomolecule. First a composition is dispensed on a surface. The composition comprises at least a biomolecule, at least a liquid volatile component, at least a polysaccharide being designed for forming together with the at least a biomolecule and a part of the at least a liquid volatile component a matrix displaying a glass transition temperature Tg. Secondly, at least a part of the liquid volatile component is evaporated by adjusting the temperature of said composition to allow the formation of the matrix. Said evaporation step is initiated at an initial temperature T1, and finished up at a final temperature T2, said final temperature T2 being above said initial temperature T1. |
| US09688978B2 |
Aspartyl-tRNA synthetase-Fc conjugates
The present invention provides aspartyl-tRNA synthetase and Fc region conjugate polypeptides (DRS-Fc conjugates), such as DRS-Fc fusion proteins, compositions comprising the same, and methods of using such conjugates and compositions for treating or diagnosing a variety of conditions. The DRS-Fc conjugates of the invention have improved controlled release properties, stability, half-life, and other pharmacokinetic and biological properties relative to corresponding, unmodified DRS polypeptides. |
| US09688976B2 |
Transformed Synechococcus elongatus having capability of producing acetone from carbon dioxide
Disclosed herein are a transformed Synechococcus elongatus strain having improved capability of producing acetone and a method for producing acetone and a method for removing carbon dioxide using the same. In an aspect, the transformed Synechococcus elongatus strain of the present disclosure can produce acetone with high selectivity using carbon dioxide as a carbon source. The present disclosure is economical because the Synechococcus elongatus strain can economically produce high value-added acetone using carbon dioxide existing in the atmosphere as a carbon source without requiring an additional catalytic reaction. Also, the present disclosure is environment-friendly because carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can be removed or reduced using the microorganism. |
| US09688973B2 |
Polypeptides having alpha-glucosidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having alpha-glucosidase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods for producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09688972B2 |
CRISPR hybrid DNA/RNA polynucleotides and methods of use
The present disclosure provides DNA-guided CRISPR systems; polynucleotides comprising DNA, RNA and mixtures thereof for use with CRISPR systems; and methods of use involving such polynucleotides and DNA-guided CRISPR systems. |
| US09688971B2 |
Endoribonuclease and methods of use thereof
The present disclosure provides variant Cas endoribonucleases, nucleic acids encoding the variant Cas endoribonucleases, and host cells genetically modified with the nucleic acids. The variant Cas endoribonucleases find use in a variety of applications, which are also provided. The present disclosure also provides methods of detecting a specific sequence in a target polyribonucleotide; and methods of regulating production of a target RNA in a eukaryotic cell. |
| US09688970B2 |
Plant-based recombinant butyrylcholinesterase production methods
A new, reliable, easily scalable and reproducible method for the production of recombinant butyrylcholinesterase (rBuChE) is provided. Through the utilization of a plant transfection procedure, various plant strains have been shown to generate effective and scalable amounts of rBuChE under acceptable manufacturing processes to permit reliable levels of such enzymes for desired nerve agent protection requirements (including tetrameric products). As well, such methods in engineered plant lines have shown suitable production of these enzymes in tetramer form with glycan formation and sialyalation (for terminal groups) to allow for optimal potency against organophosphorus agent exposure as well as proper immunogenic response within the plant sources. The overall production method, including the transfection and production within mammalian cells, as well as the process steps involved for such a reliable sourcing platform from plants is thus encompassed within the invention. |
| US09688964B2 |
Nanoparticle synthesis using plant extracts and virus
There is described a process for production of metal-coated virus particles or metallic nanoparticles, said process comprising admixing virus particles with plant material with reducing power and a metal salt, wherein the process can be provided in planta or ex planta and the virus particles aid the production of the metal-coated virus particles or metallic nanoparticles. |
| US09688959B2 |
Compositions, uses, and preparation of platelet lysates
In certain embodiments, this disclosure describes compositions comprising platelet lysates depleted of fibrinogen. In a further embodiment, the composition further comprises a cell culture medium component. This disclosure also provides a method for preparing the composition, comprising the steps of (a) lysing platelets providing a lysate; (b) removing cell debris; and (c) depleting fibrinogen by forming a removable mass by adding a metal salt such as calcium chloride. Furthermore, the disclosure also describes the product produced using said method. |
| US09688957B2 |
Hydrogel compositions for use in promoting tubulogenesis
Hydrogel Compositions and methods of using hydrogel compositions are disclosed. Advantageously, the hydrogel compositions offer the ability to rapidly screen substrate components for influencing cell attachment, spreading, proliferation, migration, and differentiation. In particularly suitable embodiments, the hydrogel compositions of the present disclosure may be used to promote tubulogenesis of endothelial cells. |
| US09688950B2 |
Photobioreactor for liquid cultures
A bioreactor for culturing cells in a liquid environment is provided that is designed to reduce the chance of contamination, contain the contamination should it occur, and readily clean and sterilize all or part of the bioreactor in response to contamination, or on a schedule. A processor-controlled method of promoting sterility in a bioreactor is also provided. |
| US09688943B2 |
Candle containing non-ionic emulsifer
The disclosure relates to candles, including multi-wick candles, that contain one more non-ionic emulsifiers. The non-ionic emulsifier(s) can be contained in the candle base formulation and/or in the wick coating formulation. The candles exhibit one or more desirable properties, such as good flame height, good fragrance character, low mineral impurity levels and little or no discoloration. |
| US09688939B1 |
Metal detergents
Sulfurized calcium phenate detergents having a reduced unsulfurized alkyl-substituted phenol content are made by: (A) providing, made from an unsulfurized alkyl-substituted phenol, a sulfurized calcium phenate detergent that, optionally, may have been further reacted with carbon dioxide; (B) adding to the detergent from 1 to 100 mass %, based on the mass of the detergent, of an organic solvent that has a boiling point of above 100° C. and below the boiling point of the unsulfurized alkyl-substituted phenol; and (C) removing the organic solvent from the detergent thereby to reduce the unsulfurized alkyl-substituted phenol content. |
| US09688935B1 |
Coal additive
The inventive technology includes methods and apparatus for the generation and application of segregated catalytic additives for the pre-combustion treatment of carbonaceous fuel and/or feedstocks. The application of such segregated additives results in the reduction of environmentally harmful emissions during combustion as well as gasification processes. Specifically, pre-combustion treatment of carbonaceous materials with the inventive additives results in the reduction of NOx and/or mercury emissions by least 20% and 40% respectively. |
| US09688934B2 |
Process for and processor of natural gas and activated carbon together with blower
A method of and device for processing carboneceous material into gas and activated carbon together with blower. |
| US09688931B2 |
Engineered fuel feed stock
Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels. |
| US09688928B2 |
Processes for making homogeneous charge compression ignition engine fuel blends
The present disclosure relates to novel processes for making improved blends of hydrocarbon fuels that provide increased power and a broader operating range when used as fuel for homogeneous charge compression ignition engines. |
| US09688926B2 |
SAMP coated level sensor, method of treating a level sensor, and method of installing level sensor into crude oil service operation
A level sensor, method of treating cooperating surfaces of a level sensor, and method of installing a level sensor, wherein the level sensor may include an elongated tube having an outer surface, and a float carrier having an inner surface, and wherein the outer surface and the inner surface form cooperating surfaces, and wherein at least one of the surfaces comprises a Self-Assembled Monolayer of Phosphonate (SAMP). The method of treating cooperating surfaces includes applying a coat of a Self-Assembled Monolayer of Phosphonate (SAMP) composition to at least one of said cleaned and dried surfaces of said tube and float carrier to form treated components. The method of installing may include installing said level sensor into a section of a crude oil service operation. |
| US09688920B2 |
Process to separate alkali metal salts from alkali metal reacted hydrocarbons
A process to facilitate gravimetric separation of alkali metal salts, such as alkali metal sulfides and polysulfides, from alkali metal reacted hydrocarbons. The disclosed process is part of a method of upgrading a hydrocarbon feedstock by removing heteroatoms and/or one or more heavy metals from the hydrocarbon feedstock composition. This method reacts the oil feedstock with an alkali metal and an upgradant hydrocarbon. The alkali metal reacts with a portion of the heteroatoms and/or one or more heavy metals to form an inorganic phase containing alkali metal salts and reduced heavy metals, and an upgraded hydrocarbon feedstock. The inorganic phase may be gravimetrically separated from the upgraded hydrocarbon feedstock after mixing at a temperature between about 350° C. to 400° C. for a time period between about 15 minutes and 2 hours. |
| US09688918B2 |
Hydrocarbon synthesis reaction apparatus
The hydrocarbon synthesis reaction apparatus according to the present invention includes a reaction vessel that brings a synthesis gas having carbon monoxide gas and hydrogen gas as main components into contact with a slurry having a solid catalyst suspended in a liquid hydrocarbon compound to synthesize a liquid hydrocarbon compound using a Fischer-Tropsch reaction; a filter that is provided within the reaction vessel and is configured to separate the liquid hydrocarbon compound from the catalyst; and a powdered catalyst particles-discharging device configured to discharge powdered catalyst particles in the solid catalyst in the slurry to the outside of the reaction vessel. |
| US09688916B2 |
Separation and extraction of hydrocarbons from source material
Systems and methods for extracting recoverable materials from source materials are provided. Source materials are introduced into a furnace. A condition is created within the furnace in which a gaseous pressure within the furnace is less than an atmospheric pressure outside of the furnace by removing at least a portion of air from within the furnace. Hydrocarbons contained within the source material are separated from the source material without using a significant amount of water by heating the source material to a temperature sufficient to cause the hydrocarbons to liquefy or vaporize. The liquefied hydrocarbons or vaporized hydrocarbons are then captured. |
| US09688915B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal composition satisfying at least one of characteristics such as a high maximum temperature of nematic phase, a low minimum temperature of nematic phase, small viscosity, suitable optical anisotropy, large positive dielectric anisotropy, large specific resistance, high stability to UV light and heat or a large elastic constant, or having a suitable balance regarding at least two of the characteristics, and an AM device having a short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a low threshold voltage, a large contrast ratio and a long service life, etc. are described. The composition has a nematic phase and contains an additive that can suppress formation of an impurity, and a specific compound having large dielectric anisotropy as a first component, and may contain a specific compound having a high maximum temperature or small viscosity as a second component. The AM device is an LCD device including the composition. |
| US09688911B2 |
Yttrium aluminum garnet phosphor and synthesis method thereof
Provided are an yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) phosphor, YAG phosphor particles, and methods of fabricating the same. The method of fabricating an yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) phosphor involves: dispersing aluminum hydroxide core particles in an aqueous solution comprising yttrium, urea, and a lanthanide element to form a shell on the aluminum hydroxide core particles; and calcining the aluminum hydroxide core particles with the shell formed thereon to obtain hollow YAG particles, in which the shell includes a compound of yttrium and a lanthanide element. |
| US09688910B2 |
Conversion element, component and process for producing a component
A conversion element, a component and a method for producing the component are disclosed. In an embodiment the conversion element includes a phosphor configured to convert electromagnetic primary radiation into electromagnetic secondary radiation and a glass composition as matrix material in which the phosphor is embedded. The glass composition has the following chemical composition: at least one tellurium oxide with a proportion of 65 mole % as a minimum and 90 mole % as a maximum, R1O with a proportion of between 0 mole % and 20 mole %, at least one M12O with a proportion of between 5 mole % and 25 mole %, at least one R22O3 with a proportion of between 1 mole % and 3 mole %, M2O2 with a proportion of between 0 mole % and 2 mole %, and R32O5 with a proportion of between 0 mole % and 6 mole %. |
| US09688907B2 |
Method of treating subterranean formations
The present disclosure relates to a method of treating a portion of a subterranean formation comprising the use of an aqueous fracturing fluid containing a fast dissolving and easily dispersible unpunfied polygalactomannan ether. |
| US09688903B2 |
Mitigation of corrosion in geothermal systems
Corrosion inhibitor blends including one or more ether compounds, one or more quaternary ammonium compounds, and one or more fatty acid amine condensates are disclosed. The corrosion inhibitor blends can be used in methods of inhibiting corrosion of a metallic surface in a geothermal process. In one method, an effective amount of a corrosion inhibitor blend may be added to a production well in a geothermal process. In another method, an effective amount of a corrosion inhibitor blend may be added to a geothermal medium, which could be, for example, steam or liquid brine. |
| US09688892B2 |
Underfill composition and packaging process using the same
The present invention provides a one part liquid underfill composition comprising an epoxy resin, a latent epoxy curing agent, a photocurable resin or monomer, a photoinitiator, an optional filler, and an optional thermal initiator. Also provided is a packaging process using the underfill composition. |
| US09688887B2 |
Pressure-sensitive adhesives including expandable graphite
A building material comprising a substrate layer and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, where the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer includes expandable graphite. |
| US09688885B2 |
Cobalt polishing accelerators
The invention provides a chemical-mechanical polishing composition comprising (a) abrasive particles, (b) a cobalt accelerator selected from a compound having the formula: NR1R2R3 wherein R1, R2, and R3 are independently selected from hydrogen, carboxyalkyl, substituted carboxyalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, substituted hydroxyalkyl and aminocarbonylalkyl, wherein none or one of R1, R2, and R3 are hydrogen; dicarboxyheterocycles; heterocyclylalkyl-α-amino acids; N-(amidoalkyl)amino acids; unsubstituted heterocycles; alkyl-substituted heterocycles; substituted-alkyl-substituted heterocycles; N-aminoalkyl-α-amino acids; and combinations thereof, (c) a cobalt corrosion inhibitor, (d) an oxidizing agent that oxidizes a metal, and (e) water, wherein the polishing composition has a pH of about 3 to about 8.5. The invention further provides a method of chemically-mechanically polishing a substrate with the inventive chemical-mechanical polishing composition. Typically, the substrate contains cobalt. |
| US09688879B2 |
Non-fluoro hydrophobic aqueous-based polyurethane resin dispersion, and production method and use thereof
The present invention provides a cross-linking non-fluoro hydrophobic aqueous polyurethane dispersion, which is produced by selecting a compound comprising alcohols, amines, acids, saturated or unsaturated (double-bonded or epoxidized) aliphatic long chain carbon-carbon groups or polydimethylsiloxane comprising alcohol groups, amines, oxosilane to be reacted with IPDI to obtain a PU prepolymer; adding a compound having tertiary amines to neutralize the carboxylic acid of PU prepolymer and adding water to disperse the PU prepolymer; and adding a ambient temperature cross-linking agent to obtain a cross-linking hydrophobic aqueous PU dispersion of the present invention. The hydrophobic aqueous-based PU resin has no fluorine which is friendly to the environment, and may further self cross-links on its applications on fabric, paper, wood, glass and metal surfaces, respectively on drying at ambient temperature which is energy saving process. Its cross-linking reaction of this hydrophobic PU system that will achieve a long-lasting water repellent surface treatment. |
| US09688874B2 |
Method of making a bicyclic guanidine-cured acrylic coating
Disclosed are electrodepositable coating compositions that include a cationic amine salt group-containing (meth)acrylic polymer in which the (meth)acrylic polymer is prepared by polymerizing a mixture of ethylenically unsaturated monomers comprising at least 10% by weight of a (meth)acrylic monomer containing hydroxy ester groups, the % by weight being based on total weight of ethylenically unsaturated monomers, and an acid salt of a guanidine or a guanidine reaction product. Associated methods of preparing an amine salt group containing composition and for coating a substrate are also disclosed. Substrates coated with the electrodepositable coating composition are also disclosed. |
| US09688867B2 |
Flame retardant coatings
A flame retardant coating composition comprising poly(dopamine) and either tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane) or gaseous ammonia, as well as an article comprising a substrate and the flame retardant coating composition, is provided. In various embodiments, the poly(dopamine) is substantially water insoluble. The coating composition can further comprise at least one additional component selected from the group consisting of melamine, an anionic clay, a phosphorus-containing compound, an amine-containing compound, aluminosilicates, silicon oxides, and combinations thereof. Also provided are methods for forming the flame retardant coating composition and methods for increasing flame retardant properties of a substrate. |
| US09688866B2 |
Method of manufacturing hydrophobic antifouling coating material and method of forming hydrophobic antifouling coating film
A method of manufacturing a hydrophobic antifouling coating material, including: (a) mixing a sol-gel precursor, water, an aqueous colloidal silica suspension, and a catalyst to perform a sol-gel reaction to form a solution having particles therein, wherein the sol-gel reaction is performed without addition of any organic solvent; (b) chemically modifying the particles with a hydrophobic agent to form surface-modified particles; and (c) adding a surfactant to the solution containing the surface-modified particles to form a hydrophobic antifouling coating material. The hydrophobic antifouling coating material can be dispersed in an aqueous solution, and has properties such as low VOC (Volatile organic compound) value, high solid content, and high stability. |
| US09688864B2 |
Pumpable shelf-stable suspension of fibers in an organic phase
A pumpable shelf-stable suspension of fibers in an organic phase comprising 1.0-60 wt % of fibers and 0.01-10 wt % of a disubstituted urea is proposed as well as a method using the disubstituted urea to suspend fibers in an organic phase. |
| US09688861B2 |
Inorganic dry powder building coating and preparing method therefor
An inorganic dry powder building coating comprises inorganic gel system consisting of alkali metal silicates and hardener, organic re-dispersed emulsoid powder, and may also comprise filler, pigment and auxiliaries. The coating of the present invention has good storage stability, scrub resistance, weather resistance, and is easy to transport. No salting-out and no harmful substances, such as volatile organic compound, benzene, formaldehyde, heavy metal, appear after being solidified to perform film. |
| US09688860B2 |
Method for producing water-based pigment dispersion liquid and water-based ink for ink jet recording
A highly efficient method is provided for producing a water-based ink for ink jet recording with which the number of coarse particles in a water-based pigment dispersion liquid is significantly reduced, dispersed particles are made finer, the dispersion stability is improved, the storage stability is improved, and high discharge stability is achieved when a water-based ink for ink jet recording is produced. Particularly, provided is a method for producing a water-based pigment dispersion liquid, the method including kneading a mixture containing a quinacridone type pigment (a), a styrene-acrylic acid type copolymer (c), a basic compound (d), and a polyoxyalkylene glycol or its derivative (e) to prepare a pigment dispersion that is solid at room temperature and mixing a aqueous medium and the pigment dispersion to decrease the viscosity and liquefy the pigment dispersion. |
| US09688857B2 |
Fluorescent probe
A compound represented by the formula (I) (R1 represents hydrogen atom or a monovalent substituent; R2 and R3 represent hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, or a halogen atom; R4 and R5 represent an alkyl group or an aryl group; R6 and R7 represent hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, or a halogen atom; R8 represent hydroxy group or a dialkoxyboranetriyl group; and X represents silicon atom, germanium atom, or tin atom), which is a novel fluorophore usable as a mother nucleus of an off/on type fluorescent probe not utilizing the intramolecular photoinduced electron transfer. |
| US09688856B2 |
Biologically active silicic acid
The present invention relates to low-molar mass condensed derivatives of silicic acid of sub-nano particle size characterized by particular structure and specific biological activities. Preparation methods and applications are presented for the here disclosed sub-nano silicic acid (SNSA) which interact with bio-molecules and modify significantly their structure and biological function. Preferred field of application of the inventive silicic acid derivatives is to modulate the structure and biological function of proteins particularly of those involved in reversible phosphorylation within biological signal transduction or membrane transport processes. Structure of the substances, methods for the preparation and stabilization, as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising the substances and methods of application in the prevention, diagnosis and therapy of diseases are disclosed. |
| US09688853B2 |
Flame-retardant copolymers
In an example, a process includes combining a methyl methacrylate monomer, a butadiene monomer, a styrene monomer, and an organophosphate monomer. The process includes initiating a polymerization reaction to form a flame-retardant copolymer. |
| US09688852B2 |
Rubber composition including a thiazole derivative
A rubber composition for the manufacture of tires is based on one or more diene elastomers, one or more reinforcing fillers, and a vulcanization system. The vulcanization system includes one or more thiazole compounds chosen from compounds having the following formula (I): Certain specific thiazole derivatives are described. |
| US09688849B1 |
Zinc ionomer rubber activator
Curable rubber compositions and cured articles are based on the use of zinc activator compositions for the sulfur cure. Activator compositions contain zinc and a polymeric component having a plurality of COOH groups, at least some of which are neutralized with the zinc. With polymeric zinc activators, sulfur cure can be activated at levels of zinc below those used in conventional systems. |
| US09688846B2 |
Rubber composition for tire tread and tire manufactured by using the same
Disclosed is a rubber composition for tire treads and a tire manufactured using the same. The rubber composition for tire treads includes 50 to 200 parts by weight of a wet masterbatch, 60 to 70 parts by weight of a raw rubber, and 50 to 200 parts by weight of a carbon black, the wet masterbatch being prepared by reacting 50 to 200 parts by weight of a carbon black, 20 to 100 parts by weight of a plant based resin and 50 to 200 parts by weight of a processing oil with respect to 100 parts by weight of a styrene-butadiene latex, according to a batchwise method. Accordingly, high grip performance is exhibited under a condition of heavy load, high slip and high speed, thereby being applicable to an ultra-high performance tire. |
| US09688842B2 |
Thermoplastic polycarbonate copolymer compositions, methods of their manufacture, and articles thereof
A thermoplastic composition includes a poly(carbonate-arylate ester); and an organophosphorus compound in an amount effective to provide 0.1 to 1.0 wt % phosphorus based on the total weight of the composition, wherein an article molded from the composition has a smoke density after four minutes (Ds-4) of less than or equal to 300 determined according to ISO 5659-2 on a 3 mm thick plaque and a maximum average rate of heat release emission (MAHRE) of less than or equal to 90 kW/m2 determined according to ISO 5660-1 on a 3 mm thick plaque. |
| US09688838B1 |
Diisononyl terephthalate plasticizer and its use as well as process for producing the same
A diisononyl terephthalate (DINT) plasticizer is synthesized by esterifying an isononanol mixture composed of multiple alcohols with pure terephthalic acid in the presence of an esterification catalyst, and the DINT plasticizer due to featuring a low plasticizer migration below 1.4% and a low glass transition temperature below −75° C. is so suitable for making those soft plastic products, such as hoses, wires, cables, exercise mats, table mats, playing balls or disposable gloves, required for having a high content of plasticizers more than 70 PHR. |
| US09688836B2 |
High-density polyethylene preparation methods
Methods of preparing high-density polyethylene (HDPE) nanocomposites by in situ polymerization with a zirconocene catalyst, a methylaluminoxane cocatalyst, a calcium zirconate nanofiller in a solvent. The calcium zirconate nanofiller, which is dispersed across the polyethylene matrix, is found to enhance catalyst activity, and other properties of the HDPE nanocomposites produced, including but not limited to flame retardency, crystallinity and surface morphology. |
| US09688832B2 |
Method for preparing macroporous polymethyl methacrylate
A method for preparing macroporous polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) particles includes the steps of: (a) dissolving a polymethyl methacrylate polymer and Pluronic polymer into an organic solvent; (b) introducing the mixed solution of step (a) to an aqueous solution containing a surfactant to carry out emulsion polymerization; (c) heating the resultant product of step (b) to allow evaporation of the organic solvent; and (d) washing and drying the porous polymethyl methacrylate particles remaining after the evaporation. |
| US09688827B1 |
Method for preparing high quality tendrillar carbon non-woven pre-impregnated and composite materials
A method for infusing a nanoporous tendrillar mat with resin includes: performing a short duration, elevated temperature, pre-cure contacting treatment of the tendrillar mat using resin, thereby substantially uniformly infusing the tendrillar mat with resin; and curing the resin-infused tendrillar mat. |
| US09688826B2 |
Biaxially stretched polyester film and method for producing same
It is provided that a biaxially stretched polyester film suitable for uses for which nylon films and other flexible films have conventionally been used and a method for producing the film. A biaxially stretched polyester film made of a polyester resin composition (A) containing not less than 60 mass % of polybutylene terephthalate and having yield stress in a MD of not more than 70 MPa, yield stress in a TD of not more than 70 MPa, rupture strength in the MD of not less than 160 MPa, rupture strength in the TD of not less than 160 MPa, and rupture elongation in the MD and TD of not less than 100%. |
| US09688823B2 |
Aliphatic/semi-aromatic block copolyamide
The invention relates to a method for the melted production, especially by reactive extrusion, of block copolyamide comprising at least one aliphatic polyamide block and at least one semi-aromatic block, especially wherein the aromatic group has at least one hydroxyl or sulfonate function. The invention also relates to the block copolyamide that can be produced by said method; to a composition comprising the block copolyamide; to granules comprising such a copolyamide or such a composition; to a method for producing an item from a copolyamide or a composition of said copolyamide; and to uses of the copolyamide. |
| US09688821B2 |
Method of producing a low odor glycerin derivative-modified silicone or a composition comprising the same
A method of producing a glycerin derivative-modified silicone or a composition comprising the same, including a process that treats the glycerin derivative-modified silicone or the composition comprising the same with one or more type of acidic inorganic salt, which is solid at 25° C. and water soluble, and which is such that a pH at 25° C. of an aqueous solution prepared by dissolving 50 g of the acidic inorganic salt in 1 L of ion exchanged water is 4 or lower; and an external use preparation, cosmetic composition, or raw materials thereof that contain the low odor glycerin derivative-modified silicone obtained by the production method. |
| US09688814B2 |
Functionalized polyoxymethylene block copolymers
The invention relates to a method for producing functionalized polyoxymethylene block copolymers comprising the step of polymerizing formaldehyde in a reaction vessel in the presence of a catalyst, the polymerization of formaldehyde in addition taking place in the presence of a starter compound comprising at least 2 Zerewitinoff active H atoms, to obtain an intermediate product. The intermediate product obtained is subsequently reacted with a cyclic carboxylic acid ester or carbonic acid ester, thus obtaining a functionalized polyoxymethylene block copolymer. The invention further relates to functionalized polyoxymethylene block copolymers obtained by such a method and to the use of said copolymers. |
| US09688813B2 |
Thermoplastic polyester elastomer and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed is a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, which is formed by reacting 100 parts by weight of polyester and 0.01 to 2 parts by weight of an epoxy resin with two epoxy groups, wherein the polyester is formed by reacting a parts by mole of a hard-segment diol, b parts by mole of a soft-segment diol, and 1 part by mole of a diacid, wherein 1≦a≦3 and 0.005≦b≦1.5. |
| US09688811B2 |
Method for synthesizing poly(butylene succinate) catalyzed by biogenic guanidinine
A method for synthesizing poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) equal to or larger than 1.4×105. The method employs biogenic guanidine (BG) as the main catalyst and includes: a) adding succinic acid (SA), 1.4-butanediol (BDO), and biogenic guanidine to a reactor, heating the reactor to a temperature of between 180 and 200° C. and conducting the esterification between succinic acid and 1.4-butanediol for 2 to 3 hours under atmospheric pressure until all of the water is distilled or boiled off; and b) adding a first cocatalyst, a second cocatalyst, and a third cocatalyst to the reactor, adjusting the absolute pressure in the reactor to be between 0.5 and 3 torr, and polycondensing the mixture in the reactor at the temperature between 210 and 230° C. over 20 to 30 hours. |
| US09688807B2 |
Epoxy resin system containing polyethylene tetraamines for resin transfer molding processes
A two-component curable epoxy resin system is disclosed. The resin system includes an epoxy resin component containing at least 80% by weight of a polyglycidyl ether of a polyphenol. The system also includes a hardener mixture containing mainly polyethylene tetraamines. The system includes one or more of i) alkali metal salts, ii) carboxylic acid-, carboxylic anhydride- or carboxylic acid ester-substituted phenol compounds, iii) an amino as a catalyst. The system has beneficial curing characteristics that make it useful for producing fiber-reinforced composites in a resin transfer molding process. |
| US09688806B2 |
Two-component natural polymeric water-based glues, obtained from derivatives of cork
The present invention is related to a new method to produce natural water-based glues made of two components, designed to glue lignocellulosic surfaces, mainly cork and wood. The mentioned process comprises the extraction of the aqueous phase of a mixture resulting from liquefying cork dust and/or cork granules, process that is commonly referred to as depolimerization process of cork; evaporation of the aqueous phase, therefore obtaining a first component consisting of a gel composed by the soluble components of the liquefying mixture; mixing and homogenizing of this gel with the second component that consists of a curing aliphatic compound; and, optionally, addition and mixture to “cork dust” to the previously mentioned mix. |
| US09688805B2 |
Elastomer resins, fibers and fabrics thereof, and uses thereof
The present invention relates to elastomeric resins, fibers made from said resins, fabrics made with said fibers, and applications and uses for the resins, fibers and fabrics. The elastomer resins of the invention provide high strength fibers and well balanced fabrics with good physical properties and chemical resistance, making them attractive for use in various applications that use elastic fibers and fabrics. |
| US09688803B2 |
Pressure sensitive adhesive composition with silane grafted olefin block copolymer
The present disclosure is directed to a pressure sensitive adhesive composition. The pressure sensitive adhesive composition includes an olefin block copolymer, a silane-grafted olefin block copolymer, a tackifier, and an oil. The pressure sensitive adhesive composition has a shear adhesion greater than 60 minutes. The pressure sensitive adhesive composition exhibits improved shear adhesion while simultaneously maintaining loop tack greater than 4.0 N/25 mm. |
| US09688802B2 |
Poly(ethylene-aliphatic diene)-g-polystyrene based copolymer having improved mechanical properties and heat resistance and method for preparing same
The present invention relates to a poly(ethylene-aliphatic diene)-g-polystyrene-based copolymer having an improved mechanical property and heat resistance, and a method for preparing the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a poly(ethylene-aliphatic diene)-g-polystyrene-based copolymer, which includes an ethylene-aliphatic diene copolymer as a soft segment and a polystyrene-based polymer grafted to the soft segment as a hard segment, and a method for preparing the same. The poly(ethylene-aliphatic diene)-g-polystyrene-based copolymer has elasticity equivalent to that of SBS or SEBS, and improved mechanical properties such as tensile strength and heat resistance, thereby being used as a substituent for SBS or SEBS. |
| US09688793B2 |
Preparation method of vinyl chloride polymer and vinyl chloride polymer prepared thereby
The present invention relates to a method of preparing a vinyl chloride polymer having good thermal stability by restraining a dehydrochlorination reaction due to heat or ultraviolet rays, and a vinyl chloride polymer prepared thereby. According to the preparation method, the adding point of a modifier is controlled, and a vinyl chloride polymer markedly restraining the generation of dehydrochloric acid due to heat or ultraviolet rays may be prepared. Therefore, the preparation method of the vinyl chloride polymer via the emulsion polymerization and the vinyl chloride polymer prepared thereby in the present invention may be readily applied to industries requiring the vinyl chloride polymer such as industries concerning a vinyl chloride resin and a molded article. |
| US09688792B2 |
Use of a metallocene catalyst to produce a polyalpha-olefin
A process may include contacting an olefin monomer and a racemic bridged metallocene catalyst at a temperature of 80° C. to 150° C. in the presence of hydrogen. The racemic bridged metallocene catalyst may include a metallocene compound (A) and an activator component (B). The process may include recovering an effluent containing polyalpha-olefins (PAOs). The metallocene compound (A) may be represented by the formula R(Cp1)(Cp2)MX1X2. In the formula, R may be a C1-C20 alkylene bridging group; Cp1 and Cp2 may be the same or different substituted or unsubstituted tetrahydroindenyl rings; M may be a transition metal; and X1 and X2 may be independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, hydride radicals, hydrocarbyl radicals, substituted hydrocarbyl radicals, halocarbyl radicals, substituted halocarbyl radicals, silylcarbyl radicals, substituted silylcarbyl radicals, germylcarbyl radicals, substituted germylcarbyl radicals. |
| US09688782B2 |
Method for separation of a polymer from a polymer solution or dispersion
The present invention relates to a method for separation of a polymer from a polymer solution or dispersion, wherein (i) a solution or dispersion of a polymer in an organic solvent is atomized by being brought into contact with water vapor in an atomizer container; (ii) the mixture obtained in the atomizer container is routed into a polymer degasification container and flows through same, wherein the organic solvent present in the polymer particles is driven at least partially out of the polymer particles due to the thermal contact between the polymer particles and the water vapor and transitions into the gas phase (iii) the mixture exiting from the polymer degasification container is routed into a phase separator (1) and the organic solvent present in the gas phase is separated from the polymer particles and the condensed water vapor; and (iv) the polymer particles and the condensed water vapor are routed into a phase separator (2) in order to separate the polymer particles from the condensed water vapor. |
| US09688781B2 |
Superabsorbent polymer composite particles and processes therefore
Superabsorbent material, comprising clay-crosslinked superabsorbent polymers, obtainable by polymerizing in a spray-stream, polymerizable compounds in the presence of a polymerization initiator system, and nano-sized or individual clay particles, which are all introduced into a vessel by a spraying step in the form of a said spray-stream thereof, whereby said clay particles crosslink said polymers during polymerization. The invention also relates to such a process and absorbent articles comprising such superabsorbent material. |
| US09688779B2 |
Treating mucosal lesions with hyaluronan delivered from an adhering troche
A troche comprising at least 5 mg hyaluronan, wherein the troche is adherent, and wherein hyaluronan is released from the troche, is used to treat mucositis, including stomatitis, vestibulitis, aphthous ulcerations, lichen planus and Behcet's syndrome. A method for treating or preventing mucositis in a patient is provided, comprising applying to a mucosal surface or a tooth or orthodontic brace of a patient in need thereof an adhering troche comprising at least 5 mg hyaluronan. |
| US09688776B2 |
Anti-human mIgA antibodies capable of lysing mIgA-B lymphocytes and decreasing IgA production
Disclosed herein is an anti-migis-ααantibody specific for the migis-α of human mα chain that can bind to mIgA on B lymphocytes, cause the lysis of mIgA-expressing B lymphocytes, and decrease IgA production by IgA-secreting B lymphocytes. Disclosed further is a pharmaceutical composition comprising the anti-migis-α antibody and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Disclosed further is a method for lysing mIgA-expressing B lymphocytes and reducing IgA production in a human subject in vivo by employing an antibody specific for the migis-α of human mα chain that can bind to mIgA on B lymphocytes, cause the lysis of mIgA-expressing B lymphocytes, and decrease IgA production by IgA-secreting B lymphocytes. Disclosed herein is also a method for treating a disease in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an antibody specific for the migis-α of human mα chain that can bind to mIgA on B lymphocytes, thereby lysing mIgA-expressing B lymphocytes and reducing IgA production in the immune system of the subject. In addition, Disclosed also is use of said anti-migis-α antibody or said fragment thereof for treating a disease in a subject that can benefit from the elimination of mIgA-expressing cells or the reduction of IgA antibodies in the immune system. |
| US09688774B2 |
Anti c-Met antibodies
The present invention relates to antibodies that specifically bind to the human c-Met receptor protein and that act as strict antagonists of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-mediated activation of the c-Met receptor and also inhibit HGF-independent activation of the human c-Met protein. |
| US09688772B2 |
Anti-GD2 antibodies
In this application are described chimeric, humanized, affinity matured, stability enhanced, and bispecific Anti-GD2 antibodies and fragments thereof. Also provided are methods of using individual antibodies or compositions thereof for the detection, prevention, and/or therapeutical treatment of GD2-related diseases, in particular, neuroblastoma. |
| US09688768B2 |
Silent Fc variants of anti-CD40 antibodies
The present invention relates to silent Fc variants of anti-CD40 antibodies and compositions and methods of use of said antibodies for treating pathological disorders such as autoimmune and inflammatory disorders and/or for preventing or reducing the risk of graft rejection in transplantation. |
| US09688763B2 |
Chemokine receptor binding polypeptides
The present invention relates to polypeptides directed against or specifically binding to chemokine receptor CXCR2 and in particular to polypeptides capable of modulating signal transduction from CXCR2. The invention also relates to nucleic acids, vectors and host cells capable of expressing the polypeptides of the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the polypeptides and uses of said polypeptides and compositions for treatment of diseases involving aberrant functioning of CXCR2. |
| US09688761B2 |
Biomarker profiles for predicting outcomes of cancer therapy with ERBB3 inhibitors and/or chemotherapies
Provided are methods for optimizing therapy of, treating a patient having, or selecting (identifying) patients who will benefit from treatment for, a cancer (e.g., a non-hematological cancer; e.g., a gynecological cancer). The methods comprise determining whether the patient will benefit from treatment with an ErbB3 inhibitor (e.g., an anti-ErbB3 antibody), with or without either a taxane or an aromatase inhibitor, or with a taxane or an aromatase inhibitor in the absence of an ErbB3 inhibitor, based on levels of particular biomarkers and combinations of biomarkers measured in a biological sample obtained from the patient. The methods further comprise optimizing the patient's therapy, selecting the patient for treatment, or treating the patient accordingly. In various aspects the biological samples are sections of a biopsy (e.g., a formalin fixed paraffin embedded biopsy). In other aspects the biomarkers are proteins and/or nucleic acids. In other aspects the biomarkers function in ErbB-mediated signal transduction. |
| US09688754B2 |
Anti-ACTH antibodies and use thereof
The present invention is directed to antibodies and fragments thereof having binding specificity for ACTH. Another embodiment of this invention relates to the antibodies binding fragments thereof described herein, comprising the sequences of the VH, VL and/or CDR polypeptides described herein, and the polynucleotides encoding them. The invention also contemplates conjugates of anti-ACTH antibodies and binding fragments thereof conjugated to one or more functional or detectable moieties. The invention further contemplates methods of making said anti-ACTH antibodies and binding fragments thereof. Embodiments of the invention also pertain to the use of anti-ACTH antibodies and binding fragments thereof for the diagnosis, assessment, prevention and treatment of diseases and disorders associated with ACTH, such as Cushing's Disease, Cushing's Syndrome, Parkinson's disease, obesity, diabetes, sleep disorders depression, anxiety disorders, cancer, muscle atrophy, hypertension, hyperinsulinemia, cognitive dysfunction, Alzheimer's disease, galactorrhea, stress related conditions, cardiac conditions, metabolic syndrome, hyperaldosteronism, Conn's syndrome and familial hyperaldosteronism. |
| US09688753B2 |
Nucleic acids encoding antibodies that bind IL-23
The present invention provides an antibody that binds to the p19 subunit of human IL-23 and is characterized as having high affinity, selective, and neutralizing properties. The antibody is useful in the treatment or prevention of an autoimmune or inflammatory condition selected from the group consisting of consisting of multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel diseases, ankylosing spondylitis, graft-versus-host disease, lupus and metabolic syndrome. The antibody is also useful in the treatment of cancer. |
| US09688748B2 |
Anti-jagged 1/jagged 2 cross-reactive antibodies, activatable anti-jagged antibodies and methods of use thereof
This invention relates generally to the generation of antibodies, e.g., monoclonal antibodies including fully human monoclonal antibodies, that recognize Jagged 1 and/or Jagged 2, to antibodies, e.g., monoclonal antibodies including fully human antibodies that recognize Jagged 1 and/or Jagged 2, and nucleic acid molecules that encode antibodies, e.g., nucleic acid molecules that encode monoclonal antibodies including fully human cross-reactive antibodies that recognize both Jagged 1 and Jagged 2, and to methods of making the anti-Jagged antibodies and methods of using the anti-Jagged antibodies as therapeutics, prophylactics, and diagnostics. The invention also relates generally to activatable antibodies that include a masking moiety (MM), a cleavable moiety (CM), and an antibody (AB) that specifically bind to Jagged 1 and Jagged 2, and to methods of making and using these activatable anti-Jagged antibodies in a variety of therapeutic, diagnostic and prophylactic indications. |
| US09688747B2 |
Methods and compositions for the generation and use of conformation-specific antibodies
The present invention features methods and compositions for the generation and use of conformation-specific anti-bodies or fragments thereof. |
| US09688742B2 |
Recombinant probiotic bacteria for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
The present invention relates to the general field of therapy of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and/or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Thus, the invention relates to a molecule selected from the trappin-2 protein or an active fraction thereof, a member of the WAP family proteins or an active fraction thereof or a member of the Serpin family proteins or an active fraction thereof for the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The invention also relates to a recombinant food-grade bacterium comprising a gene selected from a gene coding for the trappin-2 protein or an active fraction thereof, a gene coding for a member of the WAP family proteins or an active fraction thereof, or a gene coding for a member of the Serpin family proteins or an active fraction thereof. |
| US09688739B2 |
T cell receptors and related materials and methods of use
The invention provides T cell receptors (TCRs) having antigenic specificity for a cancer antigen, e.g., tyrosinase. Also provided are related polypeptides, proteins, nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, isolated host cells, populations of cells, and pharmaceutical compositions. The invention further provides a method of detecting the presence of cancer in a host and a method of treating or preventing cancer in a host using the inventive TCRs or related materials. |
| US09688733B2 |
Method for treating spinal cord injury using HMGB1 fragment
Fragment peptides having a proper length, which consists of a portion of the HMGB1 protein were synthesized, and the peptides were confirmed to show therapeutic effects on injury of the spinal cord. |
| US09688730B2 |
Insecticidal proteins and methods for their use
Compositions and methods for controlling pests are provided. The methods involve transforming organisms with a nucleic acid sequence encoding an insecticidal protein. In particular, the nucleic acid sequences are useful for preparing plants and microorganisms that possess insecticidal activity. Thus, transformed bacteria, plants, plant cells, plant tissues and seeds are provided. Compositions are insecticidal nucleic acids and proteins of bacterial species. The sequences find use in the construction of expression vectors for subsequent transformation into organisms of interest, as probes for the isolation of other homologous (or partially homologous) genes. The insecticidal proteins find use in controlling, inhibiting growth or killing lepidopteran, coleopteran, dipteran, fungal, hemipteran, and nematode pest populations and for producing compositions with insecticidal activity. |
| US09688726B2 |
Small molecule polypeptide for inhibiting inflammation
The present invention provides a polypeptide that is rich in leucine and used for preventing and restraining inflammation, and an application of same. The present invention further provides a method for preparing the polypeptide and a pharmaceutical composition containing the polypeptide. The advantage of the polypeptide comprises: small molecular weight, so as to permeate various eye tissue barriers; high water solubility, so as to have high dissolubility in neutral tears, aqueous humor and vitreous humor; and simple synthesis, so as to have a low preparation cost. |
| US09688724B2 |
Methods for limiting development of a skin wound
The present invention provides methods for limiting development of skin wounds, and also for treatment of one or more of erythemas, blisters, rashes, pruritis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, acne, and athlete's foot. |
| US09688721B2 |
Tubulysin compounds, methods of making and use
Tubulysin compounds of the formula (I) where R1, R2 R3a, R3b, R4, R5, W, and n are as defined herein, are anti-mitotic agents that can be used in the treatment of cancer, especially when conjugated to a targeting moiety. |
| US09688719B2 |
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibitors
Novel peptide inhibitors of GSK-3, compositions containing same and uses thereof are disclosed. The novel peptide inhibitors are substrate-competitive inhibitors and have an amino acid sequence designed so as to bind to a defined binding site subunit in GSK-3. |
| US09688717B2 |
Raman tag
The present invention provides novel Raman tags for exploring membrane interactions in cells. The tags comprise a phenyl diyne probe where in the dyine is capped with the phenyl group. Methods for using the tags are also provided. |
| US09688714B2 |
Substituted purine compounds
The present invention relates to substituted purine compounds. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and methods of treating disorders in which DOT1-mediated protein methylation plays a part, such as cancer, by administering these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions to subjects in need thereof. |
| US09688708B2 |
Photolabile compounds
The present invention describes Photolabile Compounds methods for use of the compounds. The Photolabile Compounds have a photoreleasable ligand, which can be biologically active, and which is photoreleased from the compound upon exposure to light. In one embodiment, the light is visible light, which is not detrimental to the viability of biological samples, such as cells and tissues, in which the released organic molecule is bioactive and can have a therapeutic effect. |
| US09688703B2 |
Method for preparing a halosilane
A method for preparing a reaction product includes: steps (1) and (2). Step (1) is contacting, at a temperature from 200° C. to 1400° C., a first ingredient including a silane of formula HaRbSiX(4-a-b), where subscript a is an integer from 0 to 4, subscript b is 0 or 1, a quantity (a+b)<4, each R is independently a monovalent organic group, and each X is independently a halogen atom, with the proviso that when the quantity (a+b)<4, then the ingredient further includes H2; with a spinel catalyst including copper; thereby forming a reactant. Step (2) is contacting the reactant with a second ingredient including an organohalide at a temperature from 100° C. to 600° C.; thereby forming the reaction product and a spent reactant. The reaction product is distinct from the silane used in step (1). The method may be used to prepare diorganodihalosilanes from silicon tetrahalides. |
| US09688702B2 |
Alpha-amino boronic acid derivatives, selective immunoproteasome inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I) as inhibitors of LMP7 for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. |
| US09688700B2 |
Metal-organic frameworks based on on 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid or 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid
The present invention relates to porous metallic frameworks comprising at least one at least bidentate organic compound coordinated to at least one metal ion, wherein the at least one at least bidentate organic compound is derived from 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid or 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid. The present invention further relates to shaped bodies comprising these frameworks, processes for producing them and their use, in particular for the storage and separation of gases. |
| US09688698B2 |
Heteroaromatic compounds and their use as dopamine D1 ligands
The present invention provides, in part, compounds of Formula I: and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; processes for the preparation of; intermediates used in the preparation of; and compositions containing such compounds or salts, and their uses for treating D1-mediated (or D1-associated) disorders including, e.g., schizophrenia (e.g., its cognitive and negative symptoms), schizotypal personality disorder, cognitive impairment (e.g., cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia, AD, PD, or pharmacotherapy therapy), ADHD, Parkinson's disease, anxiety, and depression. |
| US09688697B2 |
RNA polymerase I inhibitors and uses thereof
Provided are novel compounds which are capable of inhibiting an activity of RNA polymerase I, and uses thereof in treating diseases or disorders modulated by RNA polymerase I, preferably autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and proliferative diseases. |
| US09688692B2 |
Neprilysin inhibitors
In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds having the formula: where R1-R6, a, b, and X are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. These compounds have neprilysin inhibition activity. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and processes and intermediates for preparing such compounds. |
| US09688688B2 |
Crystalline forms of 4-((4-((4-fluoro-2-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl)oxy)-6-methoxyquinazolin-7-yl)oxy)-1-(2-oxa-7-azaspiro[3.5]nonan-7-yl)butan-1-one and uses thereof
Described herein are certain crystalline forms of 4-((4-((4-fluoro-2-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl)oxy)-6-methoxyquinazolin-7-yl)oxy)-1-(2-oxa-7-azaspiro[3.5]nonan-7-yl)butan-1-one, as well as pharmaceutical compositions employing the crystalline forms. Also provided are particles (e.g., nanoparticles) comprising such crystalline forms or pharmaceutical compositions. In certain examples, the particles are mucus penetrating particles (MPPs). Also described are methods of treating and/or preventing diseases using the crystalline forms or pharmaceutical compositions described herein. |
| US09688685B2 |
Method for preparing volasertib and intermediate thereof
Disclosed is a method for preparing Volasertib (I), comprising the following steps: an intermediate 2-amino-7-ethyl-7,8-dihydro-5-methyl-8-isopropyl-(7R)-6(5H)-pteridinone (II) is nucleophilically substituted with an intermediate N-[trans-4-[4-(cylopropylmethyl)-1-piperazinyl]cyclohexyl]-4-halo-3-methoxylbenzamide (III), so as to prepare Volasertib (I). The preparation method has a simple process, mild conditions and few side effects, which meets the requirements for industrial enlargement. In addition, also disclosed are an intermediate 2-amino-7-ethyl-7,8-dihydro-5-methyl-8-isopropyl-(7R)-6(5H)-pteridinone (II) and an intermediate N-[trans-4-[4-(cylopropylmethyl)-1-piperazinyl]cyclohexyl]-4-halo-3-methoxylbenza-mide (III) of Volasertib and the preparation methods thereof. |
| US09688679B2 |
7-benzyl-4-(methylbenzyl)-2,4,6,7,8,9-hexahydroimidazo[1,2-A]pyrido[3,4-E]pyrimidin-5 (1H)-one, salts thereof and methods of using the same in combination therapy
This disclosure relates, at least in part, to a method of treatment. In one embodiment, the method of treatment comprises administering to a subject in need of such treatment a first therapeutic agent including compound (1): (structurally represented) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in combination with a second therapeutic agent, wherein the first therapeutic agent and the second therapeutic agent are administered either simultaneously or sequentially. |
| US09688678B2 |
Oxindole compounds carrying a nitrogen-bound spiro substituent and use thereof for treating vasopressin-related diseases
The present invention relates to novel substituted oxindole derivatives of the formula I wherein A is a ring selected from phenyl and 6-membered hetaryl containing 1 or 2 nitrogen atoms as ring members, where ring A carries one substituent R6 and optionally one substituent R7; B is a ring selected from phenyl and a monocyclic or bicyclic heteroaromatic ring containing 1, 2 or 3 heteroatoms selected from O, N and S as ring members, where ring B may carry 1, 2 or 3 substituents R8; X1, X2, X3 and X4, independently of each other, are selected from —CH2—, —O—, —S(O)c—, —NH—, —C(O)—, —CH2CH2—, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —S(O)cCH2—, —CH2S(O)c—, CH2NH—, —NHCH2—, —CH2C(O)— and C(O)CH2—; X5 is NH, CH2 or O; and wherein c, R1, R2, (R3)a, (R4)b, R5, R6, R7, and R8 are as defined in the claims. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the novel substituted oxindole derivatives of the formula I, and to their use for the treatment of vasopressin-related disorders. |
| US09688671B2 |
Metalloenzyme inhibitor compounds
The instant invention describes compounds having metalloenzyme modulating activity, and methods of treating diseases, disorders or symptoms thereof mediated by such metalloenzymes. |
| US09688670B2 |
Benzimidazole compounds and medical uses thereof
The present invention provides a medicament for treating a disease involving Nav 1.7 such as neuropathic pain, nociceptive pain, inflammatory pain, small-fiber neuropathy, erythromelalgia, paroxysmal extreme pain disorder, dysuria, and multiple sclerosis, which comprises a compound of formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1a, R1b, R1c and R1d are hydrogen, halogen, cyano, C1-4 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, or the like, provided that at least one of R1a, R1b, R1c and R1d is C6-10 aryl, C6-10 aryloxy, or the like, R2 and R3 are hydrogen, C1-6 alkyl, C3-10 cycloalkyl, or the like, R4 is hydrogen, C1-6 alkyl, C3-7 cycloalkyl, or the like, m is 1, 2 or 3, L is CR7R8, and R7 and R8 are hydrogen, hydroxyl, C1-4 alkyl, C1-4 alkoxy, or the like. |
| US09688666B2 |
Lamivudine salts
The present disclosure relates to novel crystalline salt forms of lamivudine, methods for the preparation thereof, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and their use in the treatment of viruses such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. |
| US09688665B2 |
Methods of treating cancer
The present invention relates to methods of treating cancer by administering the EZH2 inhibitor compounds and pharmaceutical compositions to subjects in need thereof. The present invention also relates to the use of such compounds for research or other non-therapeutic purposes. |
| US09688658B1 |
Process for the optical purification of esomeprazole
An efficient process for increasing the optical purity of the active pharmaceutical ingredient Esomeprazole, by means of a substantially quantitative and selective precipitation and removal of Omeprazole is provided. |
| US09688655B2 |
Process for the preparation of a diarylthiohydantoin compound
Disclosed are processes and intermediates for the preparation of compound (X), which is currently being investigated for the treatment of prostate cancer. |
| US09688651B2 |
Geranyl geranyl acetone analogs and uses thereof
The invention relates to novel therapeutic compounds, more in particular to biologically active analogs and uses thereof as medicament, for instance for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Provided is a compound of the general formula (formula I) wherein R1 is H or a saturated or unsaturated aliphatic moiety comprising 1 to 8 C-atoms; and X is selected from the group consisting of moieties X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and X6. Exemplary uses include the prevention or therapeutic treatment of a HSF1-mediated disease. |
| US09688650B2 |
Method for producing 2-substituted 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-tetrahydropyrans in a reactor cascade
The invention relates to a method for producing 2-substituted 4-hydroxy-4-methyltetrahydropyrans. |
| US09688649B2 |
Amide-linked perfluoropolyether thiol compounds and processes for their preparation and use
A perfluoropolyether thiol compound comprises a perfluoropolyether segment, at least one mercapto group (—SH), and at least one intervening divalent carbonylimino moiety (—C(═O)—NR—, wherein R is hydrogen or alkyl). The compound can be produced, for example, by a ring-opening reaction of thiolactones with perfluoropolyether-substituted, primary or secondary amines. The compound can be used, for example, as a polymerization chain transfer agent, as an intermediate for the preparation of functional group-containing fluorochemical derivatives such as disulfides, and as a fluorinated surface treatment. |
| US09688647B2 |
Alkylene oxide synthesis
Direct epoxidation of propene is carried out on electrochemically tuned mixed oxide catalyst surfaces in a single chamber reactor with mixed reaction gas of hydrocarbon and oxygen. Yield and selectivity improvement compared to platinum- or silver-based noble metal catalysts have been demonstrated for the same reactor set up. Increase in propylene oxide yield has been demonstrated when a cell voltage is applied. |
| US09688646B2 |
Process for producing N-methyl or N,N-dimethyl amines
A process for producing N-methyl or N,N-dimethyl amines, which comprises using amine compound, nitro-containing compound or nitrile compound as a starting material, carbon dioxide as a methylating agent and hydrogen gas as a reducing agent, and allowing them to react in a sealed reactor for 6 to 48 h in a reaction medium at a reaction temperature of 80 to 180 ° C. in the presence of a composite catalyst, so as to provide N-methyl or N,N-dimethyl amines. The process of the present invention is simple and under relative mild reaction conditions. By means of the process of the invention, the target products can be prepared at low cost with a high yield. The catalysts used have a high catalytic activity and can be separated from the reaction system simply and reused. Furthermore, the whole process of the present invention is environmental-friendly and facilitates the cycling use of carbon dioxide. |
| US09688645B2 |
Macrocyclic urea and sulfamide derivatives as inhibitors of TAFIa
The invention relates to compounds of the formula (I) which are inhibitors of activated thrombin-activable fibrinolysis inhibitor. The compounds of the formula I are suitable for producing medicaments for prophylaxis, secondary prevention and treatment of one or more disorders associated with thromboses, embolisms, hypercoagulability or fibrotic changes. |
| US09688640B2 |
Methods of treating cancer with a pyrazole derivative
There is provided a compound of formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. There are also provided processes for the manufacture of a compound of Formula 1, and the use of a compound of Formula 1 as a medicament and in the treatment of cancer. |
| US09688638B2 |
Opioid agonists and uses thereof
Provided are compounds, including those of Formula I; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof. The compounds described herein relate to and/or have application(s) in (among others) the fields of drug discovery, pharmacotherapy, physiology, organic chemistry and polymer chemistry. |
| US09688637B2 |
3-amidobenzamides and uses thereof for increasing cellular levels of A3G and other A3 family members
Disclosed are novel benzamide compounds and the uses thereof for treating diseases and disorders in a patient in need thereof by increasing cellular levels of A3G and/or other members of the A3 family of proteins in the patient. The disclosed compounds include 3-benzamide compounds that may be administered treat an HIV-1 infection or cancer in a patient. |
| US09688634B2 |
Pest control agent
Objects of the present invention are to provide a compound which is highly active against pests, to provide a pest control agent comprising the compound, and to provide a method for controlling a pest by applying the compound. The present invention provides a 4-(arylethynyl)pyridine or a salt thereof, a pest control agent which comprises the 4-(arylethynyl)pyridine or salt thereof as an active ingredient, and a method for controlling a pest by applying the 4-(arylethynyl)pyridine or salt thereof in an effective amount. |
| US09688633B2 |
Substituted piperidines with antiparasitic activity
The present invention relates to new arylaminoalcohol derivatives of formula (I), and to a method for the preparation of such compounds: I The invention also relates to the use of these compounds as medicaments, and in particular for the prevention and/or the treatment of parasitic diseases caused by apicomplexan parasites such as malaria and toxoplasmosis. Finally, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds of formula (I) as active principles. |
| US09688631B2 |
Thermosetting ring-opening metathesis polymerization materials with thermally degradable linkages
The present invention provides a new class of thermosetting ring-opening metathesis polymerization materials based on norbornene and oxanorbornene dicarboximide moieties containing at least one acetal ester group linkage. The acetal ester group is degradable when subjected to heat or acidic aqueous hydrolysis. The polymerization materials can be used in reworkable thermosetting compositions. R1-Rs, X, and n are defined herein. |
| US09688629B2 |
Indole carboxamide compounds
Disclosed are compounds of Formula (I): or a salt thereof, wherein: X is CR4 or N; R1, R2, R3, R4, and A are defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of using such compounds as inhibitors of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk), and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds. These compounds are useful in treating, preventing, or slowing the progression of diseases or disorders in a variety of therapeutic areas, such as autoimmune diseases and vascular disease. |
| US09688628B1 |
Drug repositioning: urease inhibitory activity of (2S)-1-[(2S)-2-methyl-3-sulfanylpropanoyl]pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid (captopril)
This invention provides that (2S)-1-[(2S)-2-methyl-3-sulfanylpropanoyl]pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid (captopril) possess potent in vitro urease inhibitory potential with 95.00% inhibition and IC50=16.6±1.52 μM, when compared to the standard inhibitor i.e. acetohydroxamic acid (IC50=41.5±1.50 μM). |
| US09688625B2 |
Amorphous form of a thiocolchicine derivative
The present invention refers to an amorphous form of a thiocolchicine derivative, IDN 5404, to a process for producing it and to pharmaceutical compositions thereof. The amorphous form is characterized by the XRPD pattern, DSC profile and/or TG/DTA profile. |
| US09688623B2 |
Processes for the preparation of (S)-1-(3-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methanesulfonylethylamine
Provided herein are new processes for the preparation of aminosulfone intermediates for the synthesis of 2-[1-(3-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methylsulfonylethyl]-4-acetylaminoisoindoline-1,3-dione, which is useful for preventing or treating diseases or conditions related to an abnormally high level or activity of TNF-α. Further provided herein are processes for the commercial production of (S)-1-(3-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methanesulfonylethylamine. |
| US09688621B2 |
Process for preparing an internal olefin sulfonate
The invention relates to a process for preparing an internal olefin sulfonate, comprising sulfonating an internal olefin into sulfonated internal olefin followed by contacting sulfonated internal olefin with a base containing solution, wherein the molar ratio of internal olefin to solvent for the base is higher than 0.06. Further, the invention relates to an internal olefin sulfonate obtainable by said process. |
| US09688618B2 |
Hydroxamic acids and uses thereof
Compounds of formula I are provided: R1 is an alkoxy or O(CH2)pX, p is an integer from 2 to 3 and X is OH, NH2, or CO2H, m is an integer from 0 to 5, n is an integer from 0 to 5, each R2 is independently selected from hydrogen, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl, alkoxymethyl, heterocyclyl, hetereocyclylmethyl, amino, amido, hydroxamido, any of which may be optionally substituted with one or more of acyl, alkyl, alkoxy, hydroxyalkyl, or halogen, each R3 is independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, alkyl, alkenyl, carboxy, hydroxymethyl, amido, and at least one of R2 and R3 is not hydrogen. |
| US09688613B2 |
Omegabalins, GABA derivatives of omega-3 polyunsaturated acids, their formulations and methods of use
The present invention relates to omegabalins, which are GABA derivatives of omega-3 fatty acids, and their use in pharmaceutically-acceptable formulations for treating neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, insomnia, Alzheimer's disease, and other neurological conditions. |
| US09688609B2 |
Telescoping synthesis of 2-methoxymethyl-P-phenylenediamine
A telescoping process for the preparation of 2-methoxymethyl-p-phenylenediamine, a cosmetically acceptable salt thereof, or mixture thereof. The process according to the present invention is a particularly cost effective process in that it avoids sophisticated chemical steps which requires special equipment or expensive catalysts and in that it comprises a recycling step of one of the starting materials, namely 2-hydroxymethylaniline. |
| US09688607B2 |
No- and H2S-releasing compounds
This disclosure relates to novel compounds containing an H2S releasing moiety and a nitric oxide (NO) releasing moiety covalently linked with a core (e.g., a salicylic acid moiety) and the use of such compounds in treating inflammatory diseases, including cancers. Therapeutic potency of these compounds is significantly higher than NSAIDs containing a H2S-releasing moiety alone (HS-NSAIDs) and NSAID containing a NO-releasing moiety alone (NO-NSAIDs). The compounds, in addition, exhibit reduced side effect, e.g., reduced stomach ulcers, upon administration. |
| US09688605B2 |
Organic salts of glyceride-cyclic carboxylic acid anhydride adducts as corrosion inhibitors
A corrosion-inhibiting composition includes a diluent and a mixture of organic salts of half ester-half acids of a dioic acid with of a glyceride group with a fatty acyl residue. Included are organic salts of glyceride-cyclic carboxylic acid anhydride adducts. |
| US09688583B2 |
Composite materials and devices comprising single crystal silicon carbide heated by electromagnetic radiation
A composite material that increases in temperature upon exposure to electromagnetic radiation includes single crystal silicon carbide whiskers and fibrils in a matrix material. Also disclosed are heat-generating objects that include the composite material, and a method of generating heat. |
| US09688582B2 |
Dielectric ceramic composition and ceramic electronic device
A dielectric ceramic composition and a ceramic electric device having a dielectric layer composed of the dielectric ceramic composition including a main component having a perovskite crystal structure expressed by general formula ABO3, an oxide of Eu, an oxide of Ra (Sc, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu), an oxide of Rb (Y, Dy, Ho, Tb and Gd) and an oxide of Si, in which 0.075≦α≦0.5, 0.5≦β≦3, 1.0≦γ≦4, 1.5≦δ≦5, and 0.030≦α/δ≦0.250 where a content of an oxide of Eu is α mole, a content of the oxide of Ra is β mole, a content of the oxide of Rb is γ mole, and a content of the second sub-component is δ mole with respect to 100 moles of the main component. |
| US09688580B2 |
Oxide sintered body, sputtering target, and oxide semiconductor thin film obtained using sputtering target
Provided are: a sintered oxide which is capable of obtaining low carrier density and high carrier mobility when configured as an oxide semiconductor thin film by using a sputtering method; and a sputtering target which uses the same. The sintered oxide contains indium, gallium and copper as oxides. It is preferable for the gallium content to be 0.20-0.45, inclusive, when expressed as an atomic ratio (Ga/(In+Ga)), the copper content to be at least 0.001 and less than 0.03 when expressed as an atomic ratio (Cu/(In+Ga+Cu)), and for the sintering to be performed at 1,200-1,550° C., inclusive. A crystalline oxide semiconductor thin film obtained by forming this sintered oxide as a sputtering target makes it possible to achieve a carrier density of 3.0×1018 cm−3 or lower, and a carrier mobility of 10 cm2V−1 sec−1 or higher. |
| US09688578B2 |
Sealant material for subterranean wells
A method is for sealing hydrocarbon wells, wherein a composition is used. The composition comprises a prepolymer; a free radical initiator; a hydraulic material; a monomer and water. The composition further comprises an inhibitor. |
| US09688576B2 |
Gypsum based formulations
The formulation for making plasterboard with paper cover sheets comprises finely divided gypsum, a minor amount by weight of starch and, as crosslinking agent for the starch, a tri-functional reactive s-triazine having substituents at positions 2, 4 and 6 of the triazine ring which are reactive with the starch. A preferred crosslinking agent is 2,4,6-trichloro-s-triazine, which is preferably partially reacted with the starch before further reaction with the paper cover sheets for the plaster board. |
| US09688568B2 |
Process for preparing a glass-ceramic body
A process for preparing glass-ceramic body including the steps of providing a basic glass body and subjecting the basic glass body to a thermal treatment whereby a crystalline phase embedded in a glass matrix is formed. The basic glass body is made of a composition comprising 65 to 72 wt-% SiO2, at least 10.1 wt-% Li2O and at least 10.1 wt-% Al2O3 based on the total weight of the composition, the proportion of Li2O to Al2O3 being from 1:1 to 1.5:1. The thermal treatment involves a nucleation step followed by several crystallization steps at different temperatures, whereby at least two different crystalline phases are formed. |
| US09688564B2 |
Elongating method and apparatus for glass base material
A method of elongating a glass base material to obtain a glass rod having a smaller diameter, using a glass base material elongating apparatus including a feeder at least for the glass base material, a heating furnace, and an elongating mechanism of the glass base material below the heating furnace, is such that a horizontal plane position measuring unit of the glass base material is provided inside or near the heating furnace, the feeder has a glass base material horizontal plane position adjusting unit, and the elongating mechanism has three or more sets of elongating rollers capable of switching between grasping and releasing for keeping the position of the glass rod in the horizontal plane to be constant, and the glass base material is elongated with the position thereof in the horizontal plane kept as targeted by controlling the glass base material horizontal plane position adjusting unit. |
| US09688563B2 |
Apparatus and method for forming holes in glass substrate
An apparatus for forming holes in a glass substrate, includes a laser source that irradiates a laser beam on a first surface of the glass substrate, and a base plate on which a second surface of the glass substrate, opposite to the first surface, is placed. The base plate includes a recessed area in a central part thereof, and supports arranged within the recessed area to support the glass substrate. At least a part of the supports is arranged in a lattice shape within a plane approximately perpendicular to a direction in which the supports extend. One support and another adjacent support closest to the one support, amongst the supports arranged in the lattice shape, are arranged at an interval that is shorter than 30 mm, and the supports have a height that is higher than 70 μm. |
| US09688562B2 |
Method of making shaped glass articles
In a method of making shaped glass articles, a glass sheet is placed on a mold having a shaping surface with a desired surface profile of a shaped glass article. The glass sheet is preferentially and rapidly heated by radiation while in the vicinity of the mold so that the mold remains substantially cooler than the glass sheet during the heating. The glass sheet is sagged onto the shaping surface of the mold so that at least a portion of the sagged sheet assumes the desired surface profile of the shaped glass article. After sagging and shaping, the sagged and shaped glass sheet is removed from the mold. |
| US09688560B2 |
Water purification system engineered for Legionella control in industrial and commercial water systems
The present invention relates to water purification systems and uses thereof. In particular, the present invention relates to the use of water filtration systems to combat Legionella bacterial contamination of industrial and commercial water systems, such as grocery store misting systems. |
| US09688558B2 |
Apparatus for concentration reaction of carbon dioxide using magnesium ions in seawater, and method for sequestrating carbon dioxide in ocean using same
A method for sequestrating carbon dioxide in the ocean of the present invention coverts carbon dioxide into a high concentration of bicarbonate ions by using a neutralization method using calcium oxide commonly contained in alkaline industrial waste, prepares elution water for stably containing bicarbonate ions even when making contact with the atmosphere through aeration, and discharges the elution water into an area of the ocean of a relatively shallow depth to sequestrate carbon dioxide. According to the present invention, the present invention is a carbon dioxide storage method which uses alkaline industrial waste to carry out carbon dioxide ocean sequestration at relatively low cost, and can sequestrate carbon dioxide for a long time while minimizing bad environmental influences such as ocean acidification and the like, and is thus environmentally friendly. Therefore, it is possible to actively respond to carbon dioxide emission restrictions and simultaneously achieve economical efficiency by securing certified emission reductions henceforth. |
| US09688557B2 |
Process of treating buchu mercaptan production wastewater using microalgae and chitin as a nitrogen source
A process of growing a culture of cyanobacteria or algae using chitin or chitosan as a source of nitrogen for photosynthetic growth is described. This process can be used to remove pollutants from nitrogen-deficient natural waters or wastewaters including buchu mercaptan production wastewater. Biomass that results from photosynthetic growth on chitin can be used, either as whole cells or the isolated components of the cells, for a large variety of commercial purposes. |
| US09688555B2 |
Biological wastewater treatment processes that enhances the capacity for polyhydroxyalkanoate accumulation in a mixed culture biomass
A method of biologically treating wastewater and, at the same time, incorporating processes that aim to increase the PHA accumulation potential of biomass used in the treatment of the wastewater. The method includes biologically treating the wastewater and enhancing PHA accumulation potential of the biomass by subjecting the biomass to a primary feast-famine process where the biomass is subjected to repeated cycles of feast and primary famine conditions. From time-to-time, the method entails deviating from the primary feast-famine process to a secondary famine process. The secondary famine process comprises subjecting the biomass to secondary famine conditions for a period of time that is substantially greater than the average time period of the primary famine conditions. |
| US09688551B2 |
Nozzle mixing apparatus and methods for treating water in ship ballast tanks
A system, method, and apparatus for treating ship or barge ballast water. The system includes a ballast tank storing ballast water and one or more nozzles located in the ballast tank. One or more pumps supply a chemical into the ballast tank and water to the nozzles. The nozzles are strategically located in the ballast tank to circulate the ballast water and mix the chemical with the ballast water without removing the ballast water from the ballast tank to a separate mixing and treatment area located outside the tank either onboard or off of the ship or barge. A controller receives a signal from a flow sensor in the ballast tank to control the one or more pumps to enable operating the nozzles alternately and intermittently to circulate the ballast water and the mix the chemical with the ballast water to minimize energy consumption. |
| US09688547B2 |
Method and apparatus for filtration of lime-treated water
A method and apparatus is provided for water filtration of a milk of lime solution that contains water, impurities, and grit particles, in which the milk of lime solution enters a vessel, and wherein turbulence is created in the vessel, by which larger grit particles settle out of the milk of lime solution, to form a bed of grit particles in the lower end of the vessel, such that grit particles and impurities are filtered from the lime-treated water that comprises a milk of lime solution, with water then being drawn off, that may be discharged out one or more dosing locations and/or recycled back for further filtration, as may be desired. |
| US09688546B2 |
Electrical connection for an appliance water filter
A water filter assembly having one or more electrical connections with a removable filter cartridge is provided. The electrical connections can be used to provide power to, and/or communication with, one or more electrical components incorporated into the filter cartridge. Wire form contacts are used to provide the electrical connections. The wire form contacts can be incorporated into a variety of different water filter assembly configurations having a removable filter cartridge. |
| US09688544B2 |
Treatment device
A treatment device for stormwater is provided that comprises a container which in use contains a growing medium and a hydrodynamic separator located within the container. The hydrodynamic separator comprises a separation chamber, an inlet duct extending from the outside of the container to the separation chamber, a solids outlet; and a liquid outlet that opens into the container. In use, liquid flow containing solids enters the separation chamber through the inlet duct and is caused to swirl within the separation chamber, thereby causing solids to exit the separation chamber through the solids outlet and liquid to exit the separation chamber through the liquid outlet and to flow into the growing medium. |
| US09688538B2 |
Graft polymerization initiated on graphitic nanomaterials and their nanocomposite formation
An improved graft polymerization method from general graphitic structures with organic based monomers through the mechanism of Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) polymerization was developed. Organic hybrid nanomaterials comprising graphitic structures are covalently bonded via chemically reactive groups on the outer walls of the structure. Methods for forming the covalently bonded structures to many organic based monomers and/or polymers may occur through RAFT polymerization utilizing dithioester as a chain transfer agent. The method may also comprise nanocomposite formation of such organic hybrid nanomaterials with common plastic(s) to form graphitic nanocomposite reinforced plastic articles. |
| US09688531B2 |
Micro-electro-mechanical device having two buried cavities and manufacturing process thereof
A micro-electro-mechanical device formed in a monolithic body of semiconductor material accommodating a first buried cavity; a sensitive region above the first buried cavity; and a second buried cavity extending in the sensitive region. A decoupling trench extends from a first face of the monolithic body as far as the first buried cavity and laterally surrounds the second buried cavity. The decoupling trench separates the sensitive region from a peripheral portion of the monolithic body. |
| US09688529B2 |
Glass wafer assembly
A glass wafer assembly is disclosed. In one aspect, the glass wafer assembly comprises a first glass wafer and a second glass wafer that are bonded by a conductive sealing ring. The conductive sealing ring defines a substantially hermetically sealed cavity between the first glass wafer and the second glass wafer. In another aspect, the first glass wafer and the second glass wafer each comprise a plurality of conductive through glass vias (TGVs). At least one active device is disposed in the substantially hermetically sealed cavity and can be electrically coupled to a conductive TGV in the first glass wafer and a conductive TGV in the second glass wafer to enable flexible electrical routing through the glass wafer assembly without wire bonding and over molding. As a result, it is possible to reduce footprint and height while improving radio frequency (RF) performance of the glass wafer assembly. |
| US09688527B2 |
Micromechanical component and method for producing a micromechanical component
A micromechanical component is provided having a substrate having a main plane of extension, a first electrode extending mainly along a first plane in planar fashion, a second electrode extending mainly along a second plane in planar fashion, and a third electrode extending mainly along a third plane in planar fashion, the first, second, and third plane being oriented essentially parallel to the main plane of extension and being situated one over the other at a distance from one another along a normal direction that is essentially perpendicular to the main plane of extension, the micromechanical component having a deflectable mass element, the mass element being capable of being deflected both essentially parallel and also essentially perpendicular to the main plane of extension, the second electrode being connected immovably to the mass element, the second electrode having, in a rest position, a first region of overlap with the first electrode along a projection direction essentially parallel to the normal direction, and having a second region of overlap with the third electrode along a projection direction parallel to the projection direction, the mass element extending in planar fashion mainly along the third plane, the mass element having a recess that extends completely through the mass element, extending in planar fashion along the third plane and parallel to the normal direction, the third electrode being situated at least partly in the recess. |
| US09688524B2 |
Injection device for injecting a product in a container or a preform
An injection device having an inlet, an outlet and a chamber extending between the inlet and the outlet. A piston divides the chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The piston is movable within the chamber and includes a body. The piston includes a shutter movable with respect to the body between a closed position, wherein the body and the shutter isolate the upper chamber from the lower chamber when the piston is moved in an injecting direction, and an open position, wherein the body and the shutter place the upper chamber in fluidic communication with the lower chamber when the piston is moved in a filling direction. |
| US09688523B2 |
Cap opening tool set and cap opener
It is an objective of the present invention to provide a cap opening tool set that enables the user of a container to reduce surely an inner pressure of the container and loosen smoothly a screw cap even if the user has only a weak arm power. A cap opening tool set according to the present invention includes a ring and a cap opener. The ring includes a guide section for facing a circumferential surface section of a screw cap. The cap opener includes a head to be placed over the screw cap and arms extending from the head. The head includes a contact section, a top-surface facing section, and a needle. The contact section enters a space formed between the screw cap and the guide section and presses the circumferential surface section of the screw cap. The needle penetrates the top surface section of the screw cap. |
| US09688521B2 |
Industrial truck with an overhead guard
An industrial truck has a lift mast, which has a height-adjustable load support and an overhead guard that is disposed on a side of the lift mast facing away from the load support. The guard protects the operator against falling loads and objects. The lift mast on the side thereof facing away from the load support has an adapter for the overhead guard that has two adapter limbs disposed in parallel to each other and connected to the lift mast. The overhead guard has two projecting connection limbs each of which lies flat on one of the adapter limbs and is connected thereto. |
| US09688512B2 |
Elevator brake
A brake (26) for an elevator system (10) and method of using the brake (26) is disclosed. The brake (26) may comprise first and second brake linings (38) configured to be frictionally engageable with a rail (14) of the elevator system (10), a first biasing member (34) configured to urge the first brake lining (38) to engage the rail (14), and a first actuator (30) configured to move the first brake lining (38) to disengage the rail (14) when the first actuator (30) is energized. The brake (26) may be configured to be mounted on an elevator car (16) of the elevator system (10). |
| US09688510B2 |
Hydraulic brake system for elevator
A braking system for an elevator includes a brake disc and one or more sets of brake calipers interactive with the brake disc. A hydraulic brake unit is operably connected to the one or more brake calipers. The hydraulic brake unit includes one or more valves to control hydraulic fluid flow during engagement of the brake calipers to the brake disc. An elevator includes a car, one or more sheaves, and a suspension member connected to the car and routed over the sheaves. A machine drives motion of the elevator car. A braking system located at the machine includes a brake disc and one or more brake calipers. A hydraulic brake unit is operably connected to the brake calipers and includes one or more valves to control hydraulic fluid flow during engagement of the brake calipers to the brake disc. |
| US09688507B2 |
Braking wrap dispenser
A film dispenser apparatus for dispensing film from a film roll including a holding member. The holding member can define a longitudinal axis that extends from a first end to a second end. The holding can include a brake portion defined on the second end of the holding member, and a connecting portion extending radially inward from the brake portion. The second end of the holding member can define a slot including a first portion extending across the width of the brake portion and a second portion and a third portion extending across the length of the brake portion. The film dispenser can further include a rotating member defining an axis of rotation. The longitudinal axis of the holding member can be aligned with the axis of rotation of the rotating member. |
| US09688505B2 |
Filament winding method and filament winding apparatus
Provided are a filament winding method and a filament winding apparatus, in which, when a new bobbin is mounted on a bobbin rotation driving device, the control device is programmed to rotate the bobbin and oscillate a dancer while maintaining a state where a distal end of filament unwound through the dancer is fixed further beyond the dancer and the filament is stretched. The control device is programmed to obtain a bobbin diameter of the bobbin mounted on the bobbin rotation driving device based on a length of the dancer, an oscillation angle of the dancer, and a rotation angle of the bobbin. |
| US09688504B2 |
Yarn feed assembly to relieve yarn hang ups having a variable yarn pull-off angle and method of using same
A yarn feed assembly for directing yarn from a wound yarn source to a yarn feed tube having a frame member positioned adjacent to the wound yarn source and defining at least one elongate interior chamber. The yarn feed assembly has a weighted member slideably received in the elongate interior chamber such that, upon pulling one yarn off of the wound yarn source, through a bore of the weighted member and into the yarn feed tube, the weighted member is axially movable along a longitudinal axis of the frame member such that the bore of the weighted member is axially movable about and between a bottom end and a top end of the elongate slot in response to tension applied to the yarn as a result of yarn hang ups on the wound yarn source. |
| US09688499B2 |
Post-handling apparatus and image forming system
A post-handling apparatus having an aligning tray configured to receive a sheet from an image forming apparatus; an ejected sheet tray located adjacent to the aligning tray; a conveyer configured to convey the sheet on the aligning tray to the ejected sheet tray; and a sheet presser configured to press a sheet previously ejected onto the ejected sheet tray against the ejected sheet tray. The sheet presser presses the sheet previously ejected to the ejected sheet tray when a leading edge of a sheet currently conveyed to the ejected sheet tray falls down on the ejected sheet tray, and is in a receding position receding from the ejected sheet tray when a trailing edge of the sheet currently conveyed to the ejected sheet tray falls down on the ejected sheet tray. |
| US09688494B2 |
Apparatus and methods for producing shrink-wrap packaging
A vacuum table (18) includes an introduction section (102) in fluid communication with a vacuum chamber (120) and a compartment (139) dividable by an adjustment partition (156) into primary and secondary vacuum chambers (139a, 139b). Adjustment plates (130) having adjustment apertures (138) are positionable over apertures (128) of the conveying surface (100) of the vacuum table (18) generally perpendicular to the conveying direction. Film (20) extends from between the nip of pinch rollers (12, 13) to the conveying surface (100) and is tensioned therebetween to be cut in excess of 105 cuts per minute by a servo motor controlled rotary cutter (30) which stops after each cut. The shaft (32) of the rotary cutter (30) includes a bore (310) extending from the idle end to provide servo-control loop stability. |
| US09688492B2 |
Method of reducing silicosis caused by inhalation of silica-containing proppant, such as silica sand and resin-coated silica sand, and apparatus therefor
A method of reducing silicosis caused by inhalation of silica-containing proppant, such as silica sand and resin-coated silica sand, and apparatus therefor. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. |
| US09688491B2 |
Apparatus for loading and evenly distributing material into a container
An overhead material handling system and methods for its use are provided, where the system includes: (a) a compactor and (b) a leveler in communication with the compactor, where the leveler comprises (i) a cover, (ii) a trough, and (iii) a trigger, where the trough has a first end and a second end and the trough is rotatably-mounted between a first end of the cover and a second end of the cover. |
| US09688488B2 |
Metering feeder
A metering feeder is provided with the following: an annular transport space formed by an outer cylinder, an inner cylinder, and a bottom plate; a central rotating blade provided on a rotating shaft in the center of the bottom plate; an outer rotating ring connected to the tip of the central rotating blade; a plurality of outer rotating blades provided on the outer rotating ring so as to point inwards; and a rotating disc in which a powder/granular-material discharge groove is formed, the top surface of said rotating disc lying in the same plane as the top surface of the bottom plate. The outer rotating blades scrape the powder/granular material in the annular-transport space into the powder/granular-material discharge groove, which transports said powder/granular material outside the outer cylinder. This metering feeder is further provided with a vertically-movable scraper for supplying large amounts of the powder/granular material and a fixed small scraper for supplying small amounts thereof. Said scrapers block the flow of the powder/granular material in the powder/granular-material discharge groove in the rotating disc and guide same to a discharge opening. This configuration makes it possible to increase the precision with which the powder/granular material is supplied. |
| US09688487B2 |
Adhesive bin and method of storing and moving adhesive particulate to an adhesive melter
An adhesive bin (10) for storing and moving adhesive particulate (14) to an adhesive melter (12) includes a supply hopper (16), a transfer pump (62) operable to generate a vacuum, and a shroud (94). The supply hopper (16) has a sidewall (20, 22, 24, 26) and defines an interior space (36). The transfer pump (62) extends through the sidewall (22) and into the interior space (36). In addition, the shroud (94) is connected to the sidewall (22) and extends into the interior space (36) and at least partially surrounds an inlet (82) of the transfer pump (62). |
| US09688486B2 |
Device for conveying an operating material
The invention relates to a device (1) for conveying an operating material, comprising a filling chamber (3) with an inlet (4) for filling the filling chamber (3) with the operating material, a conveying section (6) for conveying the operating material to an outlet (5), a transition element (7) between the filling chamber (3) and the conveying section (6) which can be switched between an open position and a closed position. The operating material which is introduced via the inlet (4) in the filling chamber (3), in the open position of the transition element (7), can be transferred in the conveying section (6) by means of a gaseous transport medium, and the operating material can be discharged from the outlet (5) from the conveying section (6) by means of a gaseous transport medium. |
| US09688479B1 |
Multiple speed conveyor storage system
Disclosed are various embodiments for a multiple speed, multiple conveyor storage system for items in a materials handling facility such as a fulfillment center. An item storage system includes a first conveyor configured to operate at one speed, a second conveyor configured to operate at a different speed, and a transfer device configured to transfer items between the conveyors. The conveyors are each configured to store items in motion in a circuit arrangement. A computing device determines a predicted time at which the item is predicted to exit the item storage system and then initiates a transfer of the item between conveyors via the transfer device by the predicted time. |
| US09688477B2 |
Method and device for driving parcel sorters for installations facilities having considerable changes in levels
The present invention concerns a method and system for sorting items comprising movable carriages (10) intended to transport the items, and connected to each other by a link (19), along a track having sections located at levels at different heights linked by ascending and descending slopes, a control system and drive units intended to move the carriages (10). Dedicated thrust units, separate from the drive units, are added on the slopes and are controlled individually by the control system so as to deliver a constant force in order to prevent the carriages (10) experiencing tension at the links (19, 20) as a result of the weight of the items and/or the carriages (10) present on the slopes. |
| US09688472B1 |
Mobile robot manipulator
Embodiments are described for implementing a mobile inventory transfer station within a workspace of an inventory management system. In embodiments, inventory transfer instructions for moving inventory stored within container holders in a workspace may be received. A portion of container holders within the workspace may be identified based on characteristics associated with the items of the inventory transfer instructions and first information identifying the items stored in the portion of container holders. A mobile container unit and a mobile manipulator unit may be selected based on distances between the units and the identified portion of container holders within the workspace. Instructions may be transmitted to the mobile container unit and mobile manipulator unit for navigating to the identified portion of container holders in the workspace and transferring inventory between a particular container holder and a container associated with the mobile container unit by the mobile manipulator unit. |
| US09688468B1 |
Indexed modular dike wall
A dike wall section for assembling a dike wall is taught. The dike wall section has an elongate body, a pin at a male end of the body; and a socket at the female end of the body, the pin and socket being operable to connect additional sections to the first section by a pin-in-socket connection having a vertical axis. |
| US09688466B2 |
Vertically collapsible semi-truck trailer
A collapsible container including frame assembly, a lifting mechanism, a retractable side wall, a retractable end wall, a top member, and a bottom member is disclosed. The frame assembly includes rectangular frame members and articulated vertical frame members disposed between the rectangular frame members. At least one rectangular frame member includes a receptacle member. The articulated vertical frame members are positioned and arranged to retract within the frame assembly. The lifting mechanism is positioned and arranged to elevate the rectangular frame members from each other. The retractable side wall is positioned and arranged to retract into a receptacle member. The retractable end wall is positioned and arranged to retract into a receptacle member. The top member is disposed on an uppermost rectangular frame member. The bottom member is disposed on a lowermost rectangular frame member. A method of transporting a plurality of containers is disclosed. |
| US09688459B2 |
Disposable flexible containers having surface elements
A disposable flexible container for a fluent product comprises a product volume for the fluent product at least partially defined by a nonstructural panel having one or more flat spaces and one or more structural support volumes. The disposable flexible container also includes one or more surface elements generally projecting outwardly in relation to the one or more flat spaces on the nonstructural panel. Preferably, the one or more structural support volumes comprise a structural support frame configured to prevent the container from collapsing and, more preferably, they are arranged to generate and maintain tension in the nonstructural panel when they are expanded. |
| US09688457B1 |
Cooling apparatus
The present invention enables hikers to easily carry both chilled water and chilled food items in a lightweight, compact package. A significant portion of the effort of carrying snacks on a hike comes from the weight of the food cooler and its chemical cooling elements. By placing the food items inside the body of a flexible cooler, then wrapping that cooler around a bottle of frozen water without covering the lid, the present invention lets the ice chill the food items while carrying them in a compact, lightweight container. |
| US09688456B2 |
Brim of an insulated container
A container is formed to include an interior region and a brim defining a mouth opening into the interior region. The container includes a floor and a side wall coupled to the floor and to the brim. |
| US09688450B2 |
Gift card packaging and associated methods
Exemplary embodiments of a gift card box and associated methods are provided, generally including a base section including a first insert configured and dimensioned to receive a gift card. The exemplary gift card box generally includes a lid section including a second insert configured and dimensioned to cooperatively mate with the first insert. The first insert and the second insert substantially fix the gift card inside the gift card box when cooperatively mated. An exemplary method of assembling a gift card box is provided, generally including providing a base section, providing a lid section, and substantially fixing the gift card inside the gift card box by cooperatively mating the first insert and the second insert. The base section generally includes a window configured and dimensioned to permit visualization of indicia on the gift card. |
| US09688445B2 |
Fluid container with internal perforated compartment
The present invention provides a container for drinking fluids wherein the container has an integrated interior compartment for storing solid elements used for treating drinking fluids. The interior compartment includes a plurality of perforations that allow the fluid found in the container to flow through the interior compartment to allow such fluid to interact with the contents of the interior chamber. The interior chamber may include a compound for treating the fluid and for forming, for example, alkaline water. The treatment compound is compressed into solid beads that will interact with the drinking fluid but will not substantially dissolve. In one embodiment the treatment compound comprises of Tourmaline, Kaoline, Magnesium, Magnesium Oxide, Silicone Dioxide and Calcium Oxide. |
| US09688443B2 |
Packaging combination
The present invention relates to a packaging combination for accommodating and dispensing a filling material. The packaging combination comprises a tubular casing having a first end, a second end and a central axis extending through first and second ends, wherein the tubular casing is tightly filled with filling material and closed at its first and second end by a closure means. The packaging combination further comprises a dispensing system including a dispensing device having a passageway extending through the dispensing device with an inlet opening at its one end and an outlet opening at its other end and being attached to the first end of the tightly filled tubular casing, the first end of the tubular casing extending inside the passageway. The system further comprises a dispensing cap having an attachment end and a dispensing end reversibly attachable to the outlet opening of the dispensing device, by its attachment end. |
| US09688442B2 |
Reclosable flexible film packaging products and methods of manufacture
The present disclosure relates to a reclosable flexible film package with a flexible film having a folded edge, at least two opposing free edges, and at least a front panel and a back panel. The front and back panels define an interior space. The flexible film package also may have a score in the flexible film of the front panel forming a flap that defines an opening when the flap is moved upward, toward the folded edge and a label extending uninterrupted from edge to edge of the at least two opposing free edges, the label being attached on the film by pressure sensitive adhesive, and extending beyond the score on the front panel to reseal the package opening defined by the flap. |
| US09688438B2 |
Method for the plasma treatment of workpieces and workpiece with a gas barrier layer
The method serves for the plasma treatment of container-like workpieces. The workpiece is inserted into an at least partially evacuable chamber of a treatment station. The plasma chamber is bounded by a chamber base, a chamber cover and a lateral chamber wall. The plasma treatment causes a coating to be deposited on the workpiece. The plasma is ignited by microwave energy. The coating consists at least of a gas barrier layer and a bonding layer arranged between the workpiece and the gas barrier layer. The gas barrier layer contains SiOx and the bonding layer contains carbon. The gas barrier layer is produced from a gas that contains at least one silicon compound and argon. |
| US09688435B2 |
Transport pallet and method for the production thereof
A transport pallet, in the form of a square or rectangular board, is particularly suited for air transport. The transport pallet is formed to a large extent from plastics material. It has at least two intersecting reinforcing struts formed from a fiber-reinforced composite plastics material. The reinforcing struts lie adjacent each other via notches stabilizing the relative positions, constituting a plug-type connection. The transport pallet further has a plate-like core of mechanically stable foamed plastics material formed by several part-cores. The core is attached to or surrounds the reinforcing struts and holds the same in a stable position. The foamed plastics material core is sheathed by the fiber-reinforced composite plastics layer. The lateral edges of the pallet board thus formed are reinforced by light alloy profiled members pulled over the edges. |
| US09688434B2 |
System for compounding and packaging ready to reconstitute ophthalmic drug powders to a solution or to a suspension for administration to an eye of patient
A system and method for mixing compounds is disclosed. Accordingly to one embodiment a transfer device is provided that allows for diluent from a syringe to be introduced into a container having a first compound (e.g., powder) in a sterile manner. In second and third embodiments, systems are shown for combining and mixing first and second compounds contained in first and second containers in a sterile manner. Various dropper tips for dispensing the mixed compounds are disclosed. |
| US09688426B2 |
Apparatus for blowing and filling plastic containers
The invention concerns an apparatus (10) for simultaneously blowing and filling a plastic container from a preform, the apparatus comprising: a mold (14) for enclosing a preform, so as to leave access to the mouth of the preform, stretching means (42) for stretching the preform within the mold, an injection head (16) for injecting a liquid through the mouth so as to cause expansion of the preform within the mold, thereby obtaining a blown and filled container (12) that comprises a dispensing opening (22), characterized in that the apparatus further comprises a capping head (18) for fixing a cap (40) on the dispensing opening of said blown and filled container, the capping head being permanently arranged between the injection head (16) and the mold (14). |
| US09688422B2 |
System and tool for accessing satellite fill/drain valves during propellant resupply
Herein is disclosed a tool, system and method for refueling on-orbit spacecraft. The tool and system are configured to allow for resupply of spacecraft configured to be propelled by either a bipropellant (oxidizer and fuel) or a monopropellant (typically hydrazine). The refueling tool is particularly suited for resupply of satellites not originally prepared for refueling but the system may also be used for satellites specifically designed for refueling. |
| US09688417B2 |
Method and device for automatically determining a speed profile with speed levels for an aircraft
A method and device for automatically determining a speed profile with speed levels for an aircraft.The device includes a calculation unit which is configured for determining a speed profile (P1) which is such that, from upstream to downstream, the speed (V) is maintained at a speed constraint (V1) imposed at a waypoint (B1), up to said waypoint (B1), then a deceleration (T2) is performed from this waypoint (B1) up to an optimum speed (Vopt), said optimum speed (Vopt) being maintained up to another deceleration (T4) ending directly at a downstream speed limit (V2) reached at a given altitude level (A2). |
| US09688414B2 |
Intelligent integrated control system and method
Control systems and methods for a propulsion system are disclosed in which the propulsion control system is integrated to intelligently control propulsion and minimize transient effects from the power demands of other subsystems. |
| US09688412B2 |
Aerodynamic fairing
An aerodynamic fairing whose floor has absolutely no contact with respect to the lateral panels over the entire length of the fairing along the longitudinal axis. A free space e is provided between the floor and the lower edge of each panel. There is a longitudinal mechanical gap between the floor and each of the lateral panels. The absence of any rigid mechanical connection between the floor and the lateral panels allows the transfer of the thermomechanical stresses from the floor to the lateral panels and therefore preventing the deformation of the fairing. |
| US09688410B2 |
Water inflow prevention device for aircraft working when landing in water, pressure adjusting valve, and aircraft
The present invention provides a water inflow prevention device for aircraft, working when landing in water, the device including: a blocking body for blocking a flow channel from an outside of the aircraft when landing in water, the flow channel allowing the inside and outside of the aircraft to communicate with each other, and a valve element of a pressure adjusting valve being positioned in the flow channel; and a connection part that is deformed when landing in water, wherein the blocking body is supported by a member constituting an end of the flow channel on a side outside the aircraft through the connection part, and the connection part is deformed in a direction so as to block the flow channel by the blocking body, with use of force of water acting on the blocking body when landing in water. |
| US09688405B2 |
Lightweight weapons platform
A mounting system is provided including a center platform having a plurality of mounting lugs for mounting the center platform transversely extending at least partially through an aircraft cabin with a first end and second end of the center platform adjacent a respective first and second side opening of the aircraft cabin. A first support pylon may be removably coupleable to the first end of the center platform to extend outwardly from a first side of the aircraft. A second support pylon may be removably coupleable to the second end of the center platform to extend outwardly form a second side of the aircraft. A modular floor component may be removably coupleable relative to a longitudinal side of the center platform to provide a substantially planar load surface including a top portion of the modular floor component and a top surface of the center platform. |
| US09688404B1 |
Stabilized airborne drop delivery
Stabilized airborne drop delivery using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is described. In one embodiment, the UAV includes a flight controller configured to control a flight path of the UAV, a winch mechanism secured to an underside of the UAV, a platform tethered to and extendable from the winch mechanism, and a ballast system configured to stabilize the platform. The winch mechanism may be relied upon to drop an item for delivery without landing the UAV. Because the use of the winch mechanism may give rise to certain design and operating considerations, various active and passive flight and/or ballast control systems are described. These systems are configured to maintain an orientation of the UAV, the platform, and/or the item during one or more stages of airborne drop delivery. |
| US09688403B2 |
Method for adaptive mission execution on an unmanned aerial vehicle
A method for adaptive mission execution by an unmanned aerial vehicle includes receiving a set of pre-calculated mission parameters corresponding to an initial UAV mission; collecting UAV operation data during flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle; calculating a set of modified mission parameters from the set of pre-calculated mission parameters and the UAV operation data, the set of modified mission parameters corresponding to a modified UAV mission; and executing the modified UAV mission on the unmanned aerial vehicle. |
| US09688400B2 |
Unmanned aerial vehicle
Unmanned aerial vehicles and methods for providing the same are disclosed. The unmanned aerial vehicles may have various configurations related to a support frame. The unmanned aerial vehicles may have various configurations with a continuous track for ground propulsion. The unmanned aerial vehicles may have various configurations related to payload clamps. |
| US09688397B2 |
Aircraft with a plurality of engines driving a common driveshaft
An aircraft may have a fuselage, a left wing extending from the fuselage, a right wing extending from the fuselage, a tail section extending from a rear portion of the fuselage, and a first engine and a second engine operably connected by a common driveshaft, wherein the first and second engines are configured for freewheeling such that if one of the first and second engines loses power the other of the first and second engines continues to power the aircraft. |
| US09688383B2 |
Method and system for insulating frame member
An insulation system, for use with transport vehicle structural frame members, having at least a first structural frame member and adjacent structural frame members in a transport vehicle. Each structural frame member has a first free end, a second end attached to a transport vehicle wall, and two sides disposed between the first and second ends. The system has at least one flexible insulation member wrapped over the first free end and over at least portions of the two sides, and at least first and second self-retaining foam insulation members positioned on each side of the wrapped first structural frame member and disposed in compression fit between each side of the wrapped first structural frame member and each of the adjacent structural frame members. The foam insulation members impart one or more compression forces on the flexible insulation member to secure it in place without use of any fastener device. |
| US09688382B2 |
Method of constructing a fixed-wing aircraft
The following steps are performed in the method of constructing an aircraft: taking a subassembly comprising two wings that are rigidly fastened together, and fitting it to a fuselage wall; and fastening the subassembly to the wall by means of fastener elements that are distinct from the subassembly and that present main axes that are vertical. |
| US09688379B2 |
Actuation device for opening an emergency exit flap of a cockpit door
An actuation device for opening an emergency exit flap of a cockpit door is provided. The actuation device comprises a support structure, at least two securing elements, an actuation element and a deflection mechanism. The support structure is configured so as to be fastened to the emergency exit flap. The securing elements are integrated into the support structure and are configured so as to fasten the actuation device, and thus the emergency exit flap, to the cockpit door. The actuation element is connected to the support structure. Therein, the deflection mechanism connects the securing elements to the actuation element in such a way that a force which is exerted on the actuation element is diverted in such a way that the securing elements are released from the cockpit door. |
| US09688378B2 |
Drain mast and associated method
A drain mast or discharging fluids from an aircraft and associated method are provided. This drain mast includes a fairing including a base including an upstream section intended to be attached on an outer surface of the aircraft and a downstream section. The drain mast also includes a discharge nozzle including a discharge end opening onto the outside of the fairing, the discharge nozzle protruding from the downstream section in a first direction with respect to the base, the base and the discharge nozzle defining a tubular through-cavity, extending from the upstream section as far as the discharge end. The fairing also includes a profiled section for guiding air, protruding from the downstream section, in a direction opposite to the first direction, and configured for orienting an incident mass of air on the profiled section towards the discharge end. |
| US09688377B2 |
Part of a fuselage of an aircraft and aircraft comprising a keel beam and an aft lower shell
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a part of a fuselage of an aircraft having a longitudinal axis, the part including a keel beam and a lower rear shell, each being made from composite materials of the type comprising fibers and of which a part of the fibers extends continuously between the keel beam and the lower rear shell. |
| US09688371B1 |
Vehicle based vector sensor
A neutrally buoyant underwater vehicle is provided in which a length of the vehicle is up to one tenth the length of a predetermined acoustic wavelength. The vehicle includes an inertial navigation system with an accelerometer capable of measuring velocity in a multi-axis direction. The navigation system is operationally connected to a hydrophone which measures acoustic energy of the wavelength arriving at the underwater vehicle. A processor gathers the data from the accelerometer and the hydrophone to convert the data into usable units. The operation of the vehicle-based components is similar to a vector sensor for frequencies of 250 Hz or lower. |
| US09688369B2 |
Inflatable life raft assembly
An inflatable life raft assembly is disclosed, including a deployable and inflatable life raft that a user can voluntarily and repeatedly deploy from a storage carrier, inflate for use, and fold back into the container after use. The carrier is integrally formed with or permanently attached to the inflatable life raft. A compressed gas cylinder can assist the user in inflating the life raft. The storage carrier can automatically open when the life raft inflates, by pressure exerted from within the carrier by the expanding life raft. The inflatable life raft includes weight inserts to render the life raft assembly throwable, both when the life raft is folded and stored in the carrier, and when the life raft is deployed and inflated, greatly assisting a user in tossing or throwing the life raft to a person in need of a floating aid. |
| US09688368B2 |
Pontoon shields
The present disclosure relates to pontoon shields. The pontoon shields disclosed herein may, for example, protect pontoons from damage and/or enhance the aesthetic appearance of pontoons. The shields may be fashioned from one or more segments of resilient material configured to attach along a longitudinal aspect of a pontoon. The shields may be fashioned from a single segment, or from one or more segments configured to mate with one another. The shields may be attached to a pontoon, for example, via an adhesive, weld, and/or one or more brackets, or other mechanical means. |
| US09688364B1 |
Modular floatable dock section, dock assembly, and method for constructing a dock assembly
A modular floatable dock section comprises a fluid bladder having substantially flat top and bottom surfaces, and a perimeter around the top and bottom surfaces. The fluid bladder is designed for being selectively inflated in a deployed condition and deflated (collapsed) for transport and storage. A generally rigid continuous-surface deck is mounted adjacent the top surface of the fluid bladder, and defines a deck perimeter substantially coincident with the perimeter of the fluid bladder. |
| US09688363B1 |
Walkthrough door for marine vessel
An improved walkthrough door is disclosed for a marine vessel comprising a curved roof with a windshield disposed in the curved roof proximate a foredeck of the marine vessel. A transparent walkthrough door is slidably mounted in the curved roof and moveable between a closed position, whereat the walkthrough door seals with the foredeck and an open position permitting access to the foredeck. Preferably, the walkthrough door is electrically operated. |
| US09688362B2 |
Arc loading system
A system and method are for transferring fluid cargo between a cargo vessel and a cargo connection point at open sea where the cargo vessel is required to keep an end portion of the cargo vessel up towards the resultant element force direction, wherein at least one self-propelled buoy, that is designed to be in fluid connection with the cargo connection point, is connectable to a side portion of the cargo vessel, there being a cargo line that is connectable between the self-propelled buoy and the cargo vessel, and where the self-propelled buoy is designed to keep the self-propelled buoy within predetermined radial distance boundaries from the cargo connection point also when it is attached to the cargo vessel. |
| US09688354B2 |
Snowmobile
A snowmobile has a structure that reduces and minimizes adverse affects of snow on a throttle motor. The snowmobile includes a snowmobile body including an engine room therein, an engine which is disposed inside the engine room, a throttle valve arranged to adjust intake air supplied to the engine, a throttle motor arranged to drive the throttle valve and disposed ahead of the engine, and an air box arranged to pass the intake air through toward the engine, disposed ahead of the engine and including a portion located ahead of the throttle motor. |
| US09688351B2 |
Torque sensor and electric bicycle using same
A torque sensor for electrically assisting a vehicle with pedals includes a housing, a first gear, an actuator, and a control circuit. The housing defines a receiving chamber and is configured to be coupled to a drive member. The first gear is rotatably mounted in the receiving chamber. The actuator is received in the receiving chamber and is driven by the first gear. The control circuit including a resistor is received in the receiving chamber and the actuator slides along the resistor as a rider applies force to the pedals, thus for adjusting a resistance value of the control circuit, to allow the control circuit to output a signal which governs the assisting power. The disclosure also includes an electric bicycle using the torque sensor. |
| US09688347B2 |
Vehicle suspension damper
A vehicle suspension damper for providing a variable damping rate. The vehicle suspension damper comprises a first damping mechanism having a variable first threshold pressure, a second damping mechanism having a second threshold pressure, and a compressible chamber in communication with a damping fluid chamber, wherein the second damping mechanism is responsive to a compression of said compressible chamber. |
| US09688345B2 |
Suspension device
A suspension device includes a main body, and a stroke locking mechanism that locks expansion/contraction of the main body. The stroke locking mechanism includes: a tube member coupled to one of a vehicle body and a vehicle wheel; a partition wall body fixed inside the tube member so as to divide an interior of the tube member into a first chamber and a second chamber; a flow passage that connects the first chamber to the second chamber; a valve that cuts off the flow passage during stroke locking; and a shaft member coupled to the other of the vehicle body and the vehicle wheel and inserted into the first chamber to be capable of advancing and retreating. The first chamber is filled with a working fluid, and the working fluid is stored in the second chamber so as to form a reservoir portion. |
| US09688344B2 |
Suspension system for the front wheel of single-track two-wheeled vehicles namely motorcycles and bicycles
A linkage front wheel suspension system for two-wheeled vehicles comprising of a control arm hinged with the body of the vehicle, fork member, and steering member. An upper ball joint connects said steering member to the body of the vehicle and a lower ball joint connects the outer end of said control arm with said fork member. Fork member extends upwards and rearwards from said lower ball joint to hinge with said steering member. Steering member extends upwards and forwards from this pivot point to said upper ball joint. A method of steering control connects with said steering member. Means of springing/dampening connects with at least one of the said steering/suspension members. Said suspension system can utilize a lighter design of main frame, provide superior road-holding and can have reduced compression when front wheel braking. |
| US09688343B2 |
Tubular handlebar with integrated speakers
A tubular handlebar includes an internal peripheral surface and a stem head with a mounting system for a mobile device. The tubular handlebar includes a open end, a closed end, at least one speaker unit embedded into at least one through hole of the internal peripheral surface, and a bass reflex system to enhance the acoustic characteristics of the sound generated by the at least one speaker unit. The tubular handlebar has a sound box affixed to the internal peripheral surface of the tubular handlebar and housing a rear part of the at least one speaker unit. The bass reflex system includes a bass reflex duct connecting the sound box with the first end. The mounting system further includes a first connector to electrically connect the mobile device to a second connector. The second connector can be detached or reattached to the at least one speaker unit. |
| US09688342B2 |
Mobile vehicle
In a mobile vehicle 1 having a vehicle body 2, a front wheel 3f, and a rear wheel 3r, the steering control wheel 3f can be steered by a steering actuator 8 about a steering axis Csf which is tilted backward. The steering actuator 8 is controlled by a control device 15. The height a, from a ground surface 110, of the intersection point Ef of the steering axis Csf of the steering control wheel 3f and a virtual straight line connecting the ground contact point of the steering control wheel 3f and the center of axle of the steering control wheel 3f in a basic posture state of the mobile vehicle 1 is set to satisfy a prescribed condition. |
| US09688338B2 |
Carbon fiber rim, bicycle including the same and manufacture method thereof
A carbon fiber rim comprises a circular rim and a heat conduction layer. The circular rim comprises carbon fiber composites, and has two opposite side surfaces facing two brake pads and two opposite hooks extending outward radially to hold tires. The heat conduction layer is arranged on the side surface of the circular rim for forming a braking region facing the brake pad. The heat conduction layer comprises a porous or mesh heat conduction material. A bicycle including the aforementioned carbon fiber rim and the manufacturing method of the carbon fiber rim are also disclosed here. The carbon fiber rim can prevent distortion due to frictional heat when braking. |
| US09688330B2 |
Bicycle saddle
There is provided a bicycle saddle, having two identical portions (30, 31) arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle saddle. A channel (15), open from top to bottom, is provided along the longitudinal axis of the bicycle saddle. The front of the saddle is curved downwardly in an aquiline shape. The two identical portions (30, 31) from the rear ends thereof up to extensions (9, 10) that laterally delimit the central channel (15) are provided with substantially flat areas (1, 2) on which the gluteal muscles of the user are intended to be positioned during use of the saddle. The substantially flat areas (1, 2) are substantially parallel to the ground on which the wheels of the bicycle rest. |
| US09688328B2 |
Compact hoist for overhead applications
A compact overhead traveling hoist system for transferring product elements from a remote marshalling area to an assembly line work station includes an elevated rail system with a fixed longitudinally extending runway rail and a laterally extending bridge rail which is displaceable along the runway rail. A rail trolley is carried for controlled bi-directional displacement along the bridge rail. A hoisting device is carried by the rail trolley and includes a base member, an object grappler carried with the base member operative to selectively engage, transport and release product elements between the marshaling area and the work station, a linearly expandable structure coupling the rail trolley and the base portion, and a hoist drive operative for raising and lowering the base portion/object grappler. A controller includes assembly line work station operator input control devices located on the object grappler to control all aspects of the operation of the hoist system. |
| US09688327B2 |
Auxiliary axle and suspension assembly
A vehicle suspension assembly includes providing an axle assembly having a first end including a first mounting structure and a second end, providing a first bearing block and a second bearing block, forming a first aperture in the first bearing block and a second aperture in the second bearing block, attaching the first and second bearing blocks to the first mounting structure subsequent to forming the first and second apertures; and providing a first spindle assembly coupled to the first mounting structure by a first spherical bearing located within the first aperture and a second spherical bearing located within the second aperture, wherein a first kingpin assembly extends through the first and second spherical bearings, thereby coupling the first spindle with the first mounting structure. |
| US09688325B2 |
Undercarriage assembly and track links for assembly
An undercarriage assembly for a mobile machine includes a continuous track having a plurality of mated track links that can translate with respect to the machine. Each track link may include a shoe portion and a body portion. The body portion includes a plurality of projecting pin lugs each having a pin bore to receive a bin and link adjacent track links together. The pin lugs can include a pair of sprocket lugs for making rolling contact with a sprocket, a pair of roller lugs for making rolling contact with a plurality of rollers, and a side lug having a protruding shoulder to assist in aligning the plurality of rollers. |
| US09688319B2 |
Retractable fairing for reducing aerodynamic drag at the rear end of a commerical motor vehicle
A retractable fairing for reducing aerodynamic drag at a rear end of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) may comprise a streamlining element having a medial plane and an airflow surface for streamlining air flow. A suspension frame may have an element end for hingedly supporting the streamlining element at approximately the medial plane and may have a trailer end for hingedly mounting the suspension frame to approximately an outer vertical corner of the rear end and may include a trailer hinge allowing the streamlining element to move in a horizontal plane into a folded position adjacent to the rear end. A pair of streamlining elements of complementary shape may be each mounted by a suspension frame to respective left and right halves of the rear end and placed in the folded position, the medial planes of each element facing one another and the streamlining elements collectively forming the retractable fairing. |
| US09688315B2 |
Vehicle and a cradle assembly for the vehicle
A vehicle includes an underbody and a cradle assembly. The assembly includes a cradle body and a flange extending to a distal end portion. The distal end portion includes a platform having at least one side and defining an aperture spaced from the side. A fastener is disposed through the aperture and in engagement with the underbody when the cradle body is in a first position. The platform defines a void and has a portion of material disposed adjacent to the void to present a release pathway. The cradle body is configured to move from the first position to a second position which separates the flange of the cradle body from the underbody by moving the fastener out of the aperture, through the void and the portion of material along the release pathway, and out the side of the platform when the cradle body moves to the second position. |
| US09688314B2 |
Vehicle floor lower structure
A vehicle floor lower structure comprises a floor panel that configures a floor of a vehicle; a fuel tank that is disposed at a vehicle body lower side of the floor panel; an exhaust pipe that extends from an engine toward a vehicle body rear side, and that passes at a vehicle width direction outer side of the fuel tank; and a left and right pair of under reinforcements that are joined to a lower face of the floor panel and that respectively extend along a vehicle body front-rear direction at vehicle width direction outer sides of the fuel tank and the exhaust pipe. |
| US09688312B2 |
Slidable pillar for adjusting an opening size into a vehicle and method thereof
A system for adjusting a size of an access into a vehicle is provided. The system may include a pillar, which may be substantially vertical, and a track allowing the pillar to be moved. A latch may be attached to the pillar securing the pillar along the track. The pillar may be secured at one or multiple locations along the track. Multiple rolling mechanisms may be part of the pillar. These mechanisms may allow the pillar to glide back and forth enlarging or reducing the entrance into the vehicle from the front or rear entrances. The track may be interior to a front and rear door of the vehicle. |
| US09688307B2 |
Electric power steering controller
A steering controller for controlling an electric power steering includes a load estimator estimating a road surface load, a pre-correction target determiner determining a pre-correction target steer torque based on the estimated road surface load, a steer angle detector detecting a steer angle, and a target corrector correcting the pre-correction target steer torque based on the steer angle, and the controller determines an assist torque instruction value based on the deviation between the target steer torque and a steer torque, thereby establishing a robust steering feel of an electric power steering system irrespective of the change of the mechanical friction of the power steering system. |
| US09688304B2 |
Method of controlling active rear wheel steering apparatus
A method of controlling an active rear wheel steering apparatus according to the present invention is a method of controlling a rear wheel steering apparatus of a vehicle with the rear wheel steering apparatus, the method including a step of determining an operation state of the rear wheel steering apparatus, a step of determining a running mode of the vehicle, and a step of controlling the rear wheel steering apparatus of the vehicle according to a result of determining at least one of the operation state of the rear wheel steering apparatus and the running mode of the vehicle. |
| US09688303B1 |
System and method for detecting failure of a steering angle sensor
A system and method for detecting failure of a steering angle sensor include: a steering angle sensor, an angular position encoder and an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit reads an initial value of the steering wheel rotation angle signal and estimates a rotation angle of a steering wheel based on the motor rotation angle signal, the electronic control unit checks if a difference between an actual value of the steering wheel rotation angle signal and an estimated rotation angle of the steering wheel is smaller than a predetermined value or not, if the difference is bigger than the predetermined value, it means that the steering wheel rotation angle signal fails, and the estimated rotation angle of the steering wheel serves as a substitute signal and is sent to the electronic control unit. |
| US09688301B2 |
Steering control device and steering control method
To improve silence in a vehicle interior space in an idle reduction state, a vehicle includes an idle reduction function of stopping the idling of the engine and restarting the engine when the vehicle starts moving. When the engine is in a working state, the clutch is disengaged and control of driving of a turning actuator is performed, and when the engine is in a stop state, the clutch is engaged and the control of driving of the turning actuator is stopped. Furthermore, a disconnected state of the clutch is maintained when idling of the engine is stopped by the idle reduction function. |
| US09688297B2 |
Virtual railroad crossing alert
System and method for a virtual crossing alert system that provides a notification, an alert, or a command to an alert receiving system depending on the spatial relationships of actors within a specified area. |
| US09688295B2 |
Trainline network access point for parallel communication
A trainline network access point connected to an intra-consist electrical cable of a consist has a network data signal path, first and second communication modules, and a network switch. The network switch is connected to the first and second communication modules and configured to selectively connect the network data signal path to the first communication module and the second communication module. The first communication module has a first processor configured to receive first network data via the network data signal path, modulate the first network data for transmission over the intra-consist electrical cable, and transmit the first modulated network data over the intra-consist electrical cable. The second communication module includes a second processor configured to receive second network data via the network data signal path, modulate the second network data for transmission over the intra-consist electrical cable, and transmit the second modulated network data over the intra-consist electrical cable. |
| US09688294B2 |
Systems and methods for cold movement detection
A system includes a motion switch module, an energy storage module, a resistive module, and an interface. The motion switch module includes at least one motion activated switch that is movable between an open and a closed position responsive to movement of an axle to which the motion switch module is coupled. The energy storage module includes at least one energy storage element that discharges a stored charge responsive to a motion of the corresponding at least one motion activated switch from the open to the closed position. The resistive module includes least one resistive element that dissipates energy discharged by the corresponding at least one energy storage module. The interface is configured to provide information regarding a change in charge state of the at least one energy storage element, wherein the change in charge state corresponds to a movement of the vehicle. |
| US09688292B2 |
Railcar bogie
A railcar bogie includes: a bogie frame including a cross beam and plate springs, the plate springs supporting both respective car width direction end portions of the cross beam and extending in a car longitudinal direction; axles extending in a car width direction; bearings provided at both respective car width direction sides of each of the axles; axle boxes accommodating the respective bearings and supporting the plate springs from below; and rubbing plates provided on an upper surface of the bogie frame to slidingly contact respective rubbed plates provided on a lower surface of a bolster. In a plan view, each of the rubbing plates is arranged within a region where the cross beam and the plate spring intersect with each other and is arranged on a center line of the plate spring, the center line extending in the car longitudinal direction. |
| US09688288B1 |
Geofencing for auto drive route planning
A system of a semi-autonomous driving vehicle for transitioning from a semi- autonomous driving mode to a manual driving mode. A navigation system to determine a route to a destination. A vehicle head unit to receive data that comprises information related to a geographic zone in which autonomous driving is discouraged or prohibited along the determined route to the destination. A processor to process the received data to determine if the semi-autonomous driving vehicle in autonomous mode is approaching a geographic zone in which autonomous driving is discouraged or prohibited. The semi-autonomous driving vehicle issues a notification to the driver of the semi-autonomous driving vehicle requesting the driver to manually drive the semi-autonomous driving vehicle in response to a determination that the semi-autonomous driving vehicle is approaching the geographic zone in which autonomous driving is discouraged or prohibited. |
| US09688274B2 |
Driving assistance apparatus
A driving assistance apparatus includes: an obstacle detecting unit configured to detect an obstacle outside a host vehicle and acquire obstacle information including a distance to the obstacle; a collision avoidance control unit configured to execute driving force suppression control for intervening to suppress driving force on the basis of the obstacle information acquired by the obstacle detecting unit; and a driving force return control unit configured to execute driving force return control for returning the driving force suppressed by the driving force suppression control, have a plurality of return modes in which the driving force is returned by the driving force return control, and return the driving force in one return mode selected from among the plurality of return modes on the basis of a possibility that there is an obstacle around the host vehicle. |
| US09688272B2 |
Surroundings monitoring apparatus and drive assistance apparatus
A surroundings monitoring apparatus includes a detection unit configured to detect information on the surroundings of a host vehicle and a tracking unit configured to track a position and a speed of an obstacle in the surroundings of the host vehicle based on the result of detection by the detection unit. The tracking unit is configured to determine whether or not a tracked first obstacle is entering a blind spot area of the detection unit. In a case where it is determined that the first obstacle is entering the blind spot area of the detection unit and when a tracked second obstacle has passed the blind spot area where the first obstacle entered, the tracking unit determines that the first obstacle is not present in the blind spot area. |
| US09688268B2 |
Method for controlling an electric machine in a vehicle with an engine disconnect clutch
A method of controlling a vehicle, in which the vehicle includes an engine, a traction motor, and a clutch configured to selectively couple the engine to the motor, includes commanding the traction motor to provide an incremental torque. The motor is commanded to provide the incremental torque in response to the clutch being in a slipping condition. The magnitude of the commanded incremental torque is in response to the lesser of first and second torques. The first torque corresponds to an engine torque, and the second torque corresponds to a clutch torque capacity. |
| US09688263B2 |
Controlling powertrain components for hill-holding in a hybrid electric vehicle
A hybrid electric vehicle includes an engine and a traction motor coupled to the engine by a coupling device or a clutch for providing torque to wheels of the vehicle. An inverter is electrically connected to the traction motor. A second coupling device or at least one clutch at least indirectly selectively couples the motor to the drive wheels. A controller controls the second coupling device based upon a temperature of at least one of the traction motor and the inverter. |
| US09688262B1 |
Air monitoring system
A controller for monitoring an air system in a vehicle comprises an input for receiving at least one pressure signal indicative of air pressure in an air system; and a processor having control logic. The control logic is capable of determining a volume of the air system at a first time based on the at least one air pressure signal and a vehicle factor; determining the volume of the air system at a second time based on the at least one air pressure signal and the vehicle factor; determining the difference between the volume at the first time and the volume at the second time; and transmitting an alert in response to a difference between the volume at the first time and volume at the second time. The control logic is also capable of changing the compressor operation in response to the alert. |
| US09688261B2 |
Spring brake actuator with a caging bolt bearing joining a pressure plate and actuator tube
A pneumatic brake actuator has a housing and a divider that divides the housing into a spring chamber containing a spring and a pressure chamber. The divider has an opening that receives an end of an actuator tube. A bearing that is positioned within the opening in the divider is joined to both the divider and the actuator tube. A caging bolt has a first end positioned within the actuator tube and extends from the first end through openings in the hearing and housing to a second end positioned outside of the housing. The connection between the bearing, divider and actuator tube contains the spring within the housing in the event that the housing and/or divider fails. The divider can be a piston or a diaphragm and pressure plate. The bearing can be joined to either of the divider and actuator tube with threads and/or by welding. |
| US09688257B2 |
Electronic transmission range selection subsystem in a hydraulic control system for an automatic transmission
A hydraulic control system for a transmission includes a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, a park servo connected to a park mechanism, the park servo having a park side, an out-of-park side, and a biasing member disposed on the park side. A first valve assembly includes a first inlet port in fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, a first outlet port, and a first valve for selectively allowing fluid communication between the first inlet port and the first outlet port. A second valve assembly includes a second inlet port in direct fluid communication downstream of the first valve assembly, a second outlet port in direct fluid communication with the out-of-park side of the park servo, and a second valve moveable between an out-of-park position and a park position. |
| US09688251B2 |
Wiper connector and bolt-stabilizing sleeve adaptor
A wiper connector arranged to a bolt-type wiper arm, comprising a sleeve tube, a fastening member and a tube body, wherein the sleeve tube has a tube body, a first and a second flange, where the first flange defines a receiving compartment therein; the fastening member has a circular ring body and a plurality of abutting portions, the fastening member is fixed within the receiving compartment of the sleeve tube, the bolt is inserted into the fastening member, the circumferential portion of the bolt is tightly engaged by the plurality of abutting portions; the base has a clutching trough, a first and a second restricting trough, where the first and the second flanges of the sleeve tube are received respectively in the first and the second restricting troughs, and the tube body is secured in the clutching trough. The instant disclosure further provides a bolt-stabilizing sleeve adaptor. |
| US09688248B2 |
Vehicle security arrangement
A security arrangement for a motor vehicle having a vehicle management system and an on board diagnostics port to permit the external interrogation of the management system. The security arrangement includes a blocker having an electrical line, a switch and a controller to control the position of the switch, the switch having a closed position in which the electrical line is complete and an open position in which the electrical line is incomplete. The controller has a record of an identifier and is configured to close the switch when the identifier is communicated to the controller. The identifier can be communicated to the controller by way of data-input means or by a removable adaptor. |
| US09688246B2 |
Method and apparatus for in-vehicle alarm activation and response handling
A system includes one or more processors configured to detect activation of an alarm trigger in communication with the one or more processors. The processors are further configured to determine a type of trigger and provide a subtle feedback response, based on the type of trigger, designed to avoid detection by an assailant. The processors are additionally configured to wirelessly contact an emergency responder and provide data usable in determining a vehicle location and a vehicle identification. |
| US09688245B2 |
System, method, and appartus for remotely disabling or enabling a vehicle
A system, method, and apparatus for disabling and/or enabling a vehicle. In one embodiment, the invention can be a method including transmitting a disable command to an electronic apparatus that is operably coupled to a vehicle. The electronic apparatus may be configured to transition the vehicle between an enabled state wherein operation of the vehicle is permitted and a disabled state wherein operation of the vehicle is prohibited. The method may further include, after the electronic apparatus receives the disable command, sending a test signal from the electronic apparatus to a remote server over a wireless network upon the vehicle being parked. When the test signal is not successfully sent to the remote server, the vehicle may remain in or be returned to the enabled state. When the test signal is successfully sent to the remote server, the vehicle may remain in or be returned to the disabled state. |
| US09688243B2 |
System and method for creating and distributing diagnostic tests in an adaptive diagnostic development platform
A system and method for creating and distributing diagnostic tests to diagnostic devices. The system includes user devices, diagnostic devices, diagnostic development system and validation/authentication system. The system can create, validate and distribute one or more diagnostic tests to various diagnostic devices. This allows user to have the latest diagnostic tests in a timely manner. |
| US09688238B2 |
Webbing take-up device
A webbing take-up device including: a spool on which a webbing fitted over an occupant is taken up; a restricting member restricting a rotation of the spool in the pullout direction under specific circumstances; a force limiter mechanism permitting the rotation of the spool in the pullout direction when a force limiter load or a higher load is imparted while the restricting member is restricting the rotation of the spool in the pullout direction; a switching member being capable of switching between a disposed position at a first position and a disposed position at second position, and provided between the first position and the second position; and an operation member being capable of being switched between operation and non-operation, whereby the disposed position of the switching member is switched between the first position and the second position and the force limiter load is switched between a high-load and a low-load. |
| US09688234B2 |
Far-side airbag apparatus
A far-side airbag apparatus includes an airbag and an inflator that discharges inflation gas for deploying and inflating the airbag. The airbag is fixed to the seat frame of the backrest of a vehicle seat and is deployed and inflated on the side corresponding to the center of the passenger compartment. The airbag is divided into first to third inflation chambers, and the first inflation chamber accommodates the inflator. The far-side airbag apparatus includes a tension belt having a first end and a second end. The first end of the tension belt is connected to the surface of the airbag at a position that corresponds to a seam, which divides the first inflation chamber and the second inflation chamber from each other, and the second end is connected to the seat frame. |
| US09688229B2 |
Airbag device
An airbag of an airbag device for a driver seat has a front panel and a back panel. In the airbag having undergone spontaneous inflation, when a size between a securing position of the airbag to a retainer member and the most protruding portion of the airbag with respect to the securing position is set as 1, the most protruding portion by the back panel is located at a position spaced from the securing position by 0.5 or greater, a diameter of the inflated airbag of an opposing portion to an inner surface of the wheel is 0.6 to 1.2 times as large as an inner diameter of the wheel, and a diameter of the inflated airbag of a joint portion of the front panel and the back panel is greater than the diameter of the inflated airbag of the opposing portion to the inner surface of the wheel. |
| US09688226B2 |
Bumper reinforcement
A bumper reinforcement comprising an elongated, channel-shaped body member with a bottom portion, sidewall portions, and an open side and a closure member closing the open side of the body member so that the bumper reinforcement has a closed cross section. The closure member provides an impact surface that receives an external impact. The closure member comprises lateral edges and a central portion, the closure member being welded to the body member with the lateral edges of the closure member laid on inner surfaces of open side edges of the sidewall portions of the body member. |
| US09688224B2 |
Vehicle electric power supply apparatus
A vehicle electric power supply apparatus includes first and second power sources connected in parallel to each other; a DC-DC converter connected between the first and second power sources; a switch connected in parallel to the DC-DC converter and connected between the first and second power sources; an opening and closing unit that is operable to open and close the switch; and a control unit that controls the DC-DC converter and the opening and closing unit. When an internal combustion engine is stopped, the control unit sets the switch to be OFF using the opening and closing unit, and the control unit causes the second power source to be discharged and the first power source to be charged until the output voltage of the second power source reaches a first voltage by electric power supply from the second power source to the first power source via the DC-DC converter. |
| US09688223B2 |
Liquid lead storage battery and battery system
A liquid lead storage battery includes a negative electrode plate, a positive electrode plate and an electrolyte solution. The both plates are arranged so as to face each other in a thickness direction and immersed in the electrolyte solution. The negative electrode plate includes an active material containing carbon. An elastic sheet formed of a porous material is arranged between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate so as to press the negative electrode plate from both sides in the thickness direction. |
| US09688219B2 |
Wire harness
A wire harness includes a conductive path and an exterior member with a tubular shape which covers the conductive path. The exterior member includes a bent route portion and a straight route portion with a straight shape. The straight route portion includes a first straight tubular portion; a second straight tubular portion; a third straight tubular portion that is disposed between the first straight tubular portion and the second straight tubular portion; and a shift correction portion that allows the third straight tubular portion to be displaced relative to the first straight tubular portion and the second straight tubular portion in a perpendicular axial direction of the straight route portion. |
| US09688218B2 |
Frame molding for vehicle door
A frame molding for a vehicle door includes a first molding portion which is connected to a sash molding attached to a door sash, a second molding portion which is connected to a belt molding, which is attached to an upper edge of a door panel, and a corner portion at which the first molding portion and the second molding portion meet. The frame molding includes, at the corner portion, a corner engaging portion which is engaged with the door panel to restrict at least upward movement of the corner portion. This makes it possible to improve the stability of support for the frame molding. |
| US09688217B2 |
Manufacture of interior trim for a motor vehicle
A method of providing interior trim for a motor vehicle comprising forming a first interior trim article providing a first interior trim level, wherein the first article comprises a first article decorative covering overlying a first article cushion member and a first article substrate; and forming a second interior trim article having a base structure comprising the first interior trim article; wherein the second interior trim article provides a second interior trim level different from the first interior trim level; wherein the second interior trim article comprises a second article decorative covering and a second article cushion member overlying the base structure; wherein the first article decorative covering includes an elongated channel; wherein the second article decorative covering comprises a plurality of decorative covering segments joined at a joining seam; and wherein the joining seam is located in the elongated channel. |
| US09688216B1 |
Truck chaps systems
First-truck-chap-assembly and second-truck-chap-assembly are removeably coupleable with the first-truck-bed-side and the second-truck-bed-side, respectively, such that the first-truck -chap-assembly and the second-truck-chap-assembly are able to be moved in relation to a truck -bed-box to protect the truck-bed-box from damage and to prevent contents, when filled, in the truck-bed-box from displacement. |
| US09688214B1 |
Attachment for a toolbox
An attachment for a toolbox comprising: a base section and a removable rack section, the base section comprises at least one horizontal support and at least one vertical support attached to the at least one horizontal support, the at least one vertical support has a receiving aperture sized to receive a bottom section of the rack section, located at terminal ends of each horizontal support are attachment tangs that include an attachment aperture, the removable rack section comprises of two pieces, a stem section and a prong section comprising a horizontal bar with retaining projections at teach end of the horizontal bar. |
| US09688208B2 |
Storage bin double track system
A sliding storage compartment assembly for a motor vehicle includes a storage bin slidably received in a storage bin holder by a dual track assembly defined by opposed sets of rails and opposed sets of cooperating tracks. Each of the opposed sets of rails and opposed sets of cooperating tracks are vertically and laterally offset one from another. Each of the opposed sets of rails and each of the opposed sets of cooperating tracks may be vertically offset one from another in a vehicle z-axis direction and laterally offset from one another in a vehicle x-axis direction. The opposed sets of cooperating tracks may be disposed on opposed side walls of the storage bin holder and the opposed sets of rails may be disposed on opposed side walls of the storage bin, or vice-versa. Console assemblies including the sliding storage compartment assembly are described. |
| US09688207B1 |
Universally positional article mounting assemblies and methods
Universally positional article mounting assemblies in some embodiments include a mounting tab having a generally flat or planar tab panel including an article mount edge; a tab insert end opposite the article mount edge; a pair of tab side edges extending from the article mount edge to the tab insert end; a first panel surface; and a second panel surface; a substantially universally manipulatable article stem carried by the article mount edge of the tab panel, the article stem having an elongated article stem axis; and at least one article carried by the article stem, the at least one article disposed within an article plane and the article plane normally generally perpendicular to the article stem axis of the article stem. |
| US09688206B1 |
Daneshvar carrier means and methods II
The advanced life has brought the use of strollers, wheelchairs and carriers for easing the life and human care. However, handling these objects in and out of a vehicle has turned to be a practical problem. Commonly these units are lifted for placement in the trunk or inside a vehicle, however, manipulation of these units which have a noticeable weight and a rough shape are difficult and labor intensive. Particularly, by some mothers that does not have enough reserve doing other chores. This activity will increase the pain of those who just had C-sections or it can cause a new back and joint pains or worsen the existing ones. This application introduces methods and means to allow such a process to be done easily. This application introduces new units and methods which allows strollers and carriers and similar units to be placed inside a box means which is attached to the rear of a vehicle by use of a door that opens and stands on the ground to function as a ramp. This allows a wheeled unit to be wheeled up into the box and be kept inside the box means by means that are designed to prevent it from moving. The ramp will close as a door and locked. Thus this method will simplify the process of moving these objects and will practically eliminate the need for bending and lifting of such units. The box means will also function as a protector from rain, snow and bad environment. |
| US09688205B2 |
Vehicle step apparatus and motor assembly thereof
A vehicle step apparatus for a vehicle and a motor assembly thereof are provided. The vehicle step apparatus includes: a extending and retracting device including a mounting support, a vehicle step support and an arm assembly, the arm assembly being connected between the mounting support and the vehicle step support and configured to drive the vehicle step support to move between an extending position and a retraction position; a vehicle step disposed at the vehicle step support; a motor disposed at the mounting support and including a motor shaft coupled with the arm assembly; and an elastic element configured to take an elastic deformation to store energy when the motor drives the vehicle step support to move towards the extension position, and to release energy to assist the motor in driving the extending and retracting device when the motor drives the vehicle step support towards the retraction position. |
| US09688204B2 |
Ladder of working vehicle
A ladder in a multi-step structure includes: first front and rear connecting members that are connected to a vehicle body and between a wheel and an end of the vehicle body and that are juxtaposed with a predetermined space; a first step board that is connected between respective lower ends of the first front and rear connecting members; second front and rear connecting members, respective upper ends of which are connected to both ends of the first step board; and a second step board that is connected between respective lower ends of the second front and rear connecting members. In the first front and rear connecting members, one near the wheel is fixed to the vehicle body and the other near the end of the vehicle body is connected in a pivotally movable manner to the vehicle body and is foldable. |
| US09688203B2 |
Turn signal lamp assembly for vehicle door mirror, and vehicle door mirror
A casing of a turn signal lamp assembly includes a lamp housing and an outer lens, each of which includes a transparent member, being overlaid on each other and joined to each other at peripheral edges. The lamp housing includes a light entrance portion that receives incident light emitted from a light source, a light-guiding lens portion that guides the incident light, and a light exit portion that outputs the guided light. |
| US09688202B2 |
Radio frequency identification enabled mirrors
A radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled mirror includes a mirror comprising a reflective layer. The reflective layer comprises at least one layer of a metallic material. At least one portion of the reflective layer is removed to form a booster antenna from a remaining portion of the reflective layer. A dielectric coating is applied to the mirror where the reflective layer was removed. The RFID-enabled mirror further includes an RFID chip coupled to the booster antenna. |
| US09688200B2 |
Calibration system and method for multi-camera vision system
A calibration system for a multi-camera vision system of a vehicle includes a plurality of calibration targets disposed at an area at which the vehicle is positioned for a calibrating procedure. The calibration targets may include a patterned array of markings, such as colored or black/white or shaded markings or dots, disposed at forward, rearward and/or sideward regions of the vehicle. The control is operable to process image data captured by the cameras and, responsive to processing of captured image data, the control is operable to determine a particular local pattern of markings of the respective calibration target to determine the position of the respective calibration target relative to the camera that is imaging that target. Responsive to processing of captured image data, the calibration system is operable to calibrate the multi-camera vision system of the vehicle. |
| US09688197B2 |
Night detection of parked vehicles
To detect parked vehicles at night, the present invention discloses night-detection device and method. The night-detection device comprises a moving-vehicle sensor and a parked-vehicle sensor. It uses the light beam from a passing-by vehicle to detect parked vehicles. |
| US09688196B1 |
Alarm activated system with snow level sensor
An apparatus for detecting the occurrence of snow above a preset level in relation to a combustion device outlet vent and inflow fresh air inlet providing a remote signal and alarm activation response thereto. A sensor arranged to project a distance determinating beam indicates the presence of snow and obstructions to a controller that selectively activates a light and sound alarm. Telecommunication from the integrated alarm provides wireless notification to remote locations that an event has occurred and remedial action is required. |
| US09688193B2 |
System and method for controlling lamp in vehicle
A system and a method for controlling a lamp in a vehicle capable of recognizing turn on/off of the lamp in the vehicle when a driver or a passenger enters or exits the vehicle and improving sensitivity quality of the driver or the passenger by entering a breathing mode in which a lamp in the vehicle is repeatedly brightened and darkened at a specific period when the driver or the passenger enters or exits the vehicle and changing a period of a luminance of the lamp in proportion to a speed of the vehicle are provided. The system for controlling a lamp in a vehicle includes: a lamp controlling unit configured to receive a door opening signal or a door closing signal of the vehicle or receive a start on or off signal of the vehicle and to change a mode of the lamp into a standby mode, a breathing mode, or an operating mode; and a lamp configured to be driven by the lamp controlling unit. |
| US09688185B2 |
Corner light assembly for emergency vehicle
A corner light assembly for an emergency vehicle. The light assembly comprises a first side crown section configured to extend laterally along at least a portion of a first side of a body of the emergency vehicle, a second side crown section configured to extend laterally along at least a portion of a second side of the body of the emergency vehicle, and a central crown section positioned between the first and second crown sections. The light assembly additionally comprises at least one light element including a light source, secured to an exterior surface of one of the first side, second side, or central crown sections, as well as a securing material for securing the light element to the first side, second side, or central crown sections, with the securing material configured to secure the light element to sections without puncturing the body of the emergency vehicle. |
| US09688182B2 |
Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp includes a lamp housing having an opening and a cover attached to the lamp housing and closing the opening to form a lamp chamber, and a lamp unit disposed in an interior of the lamp chamber and including a light source having a plurality of planar light emitting bodies. An outer peripheral portion of each of the planar light emitting bodies is a non-light emitting region, and a portion inside the non-light emitting region of each of the planar light emitting bodies is a light emitting region. At least a portion of the non-light emitting region is formed to be transparent. The transparent portion of the non-light emitting region of the planar light emitting bodies and an outer end portion of the light emitting region of other planar light emitting bodies are superimposed to each other in a thickness direction of the planar light emitting bodies. |
| US09688179B2 |
Golf cart vending service unit
Disclosed is a vending service unit that couples to a golf cart vehicle to form a golf cart with food and retail service features. The vending service unit includes modules that allow hot and cold food and beverages to be stored and sold, and other retail items such as tobacco, golf supplies, and ice to be displayed and sold from the golf cart with food and retail service features. The vending service unit includes removable concession modules that a vendor can easily and quickly replace and/or interchange. The disclosed vending service unit includes drawers that allow different types of beverage to be stored and sold. The drawers are individually insulated and can be individually heated or chilled for different food temperatures and types. The vending service unit includes a counter surface that can be used to set items upon and upon which to conduct business. |
| US09688177B2 |
Extendable and retractable edge guide
A retractable guide for loading and unloading snowmobiles, ATVs and other equipment from a trailer or truck bed includes a first portion that is movable relative to a second portion that is fixedly attached to the truck or trailer bed such that the first portion pivotally moves relative to the second portion. The first portion is of a sufficient length such that when the first portion guide is in an extended position a distal edge of the first portion contacts the ground surface to provide a ramp for loading and unloading the ATV, snowmobile or other equipment. The ramp provides a smooth transition from the ground to the bed of the truck or trailer. Once the ATV, snowmobile or other equipment is loaded onto the bed of the trailer or truck, the first portion of the guide is pivotally positioned into a stowed position such that an end gate or other retaining wall can be positioned into a secured vertical position with the ATV, snowmobile or other equipment being positioned on the bed of the trailer or truck. |
| US09688174B2 |
Multi-cell seat cushion assembly
A vehicle seating assembly is provided that includes a seatback and a support layer coupled to a seat frame. The support layer includes a plurality of sealed support cells and defines a plurality of attachment points. The support cells have a first air pressure and a comfort layer positioned over the support layer. The comfort layer includes a plurality of sealed comfort cells having a second air pressure. The support layer, comfort layer, and cover stock are secured to the seat frame via the attachment points. |
| US09688169B2 |
Split rear backrest for a motor vehicle
A split rear backrest is arranged between two side panels of a motor vehicle and has two backrests, which are provided with respective lower portions arranged side by side along a horizontal axis and are rotatable independently of each other about said horizontal axis; moreover, the backrest has a shaft, whose ends define respective fastening elements for being coupled to the side panels; the shaft has a segment axially protruding from one of the backrests and rotationally engaging a seat axially formed in the other backrest. |
| US09688163B2 |
System, methodologies, and components acquiring, analyzing, and using occupant body specifications for improved seating structures and environment configuration
Equipment and processes generate a seating solution by obtaining occupant data, calculating body dimensions from the occupant data, and calculating a best-fit body arrangement for an occupant. Occupant data may be obtained in various ways using available computational devices and software or by manually measuring the relevant dimensions on the occupant. A user interface for inputting occupant metrics and/or occupant measurements may be provided in a mobile terminal included in the vehicle or separate from the vehicle, thus giving users increased flexibility while maximizing simplicity and usability for the user or other personnel obtaining the data. Once an occupant's best-fit body arrangement is determined, it may be altered by changing the predetermined criteria to achieve optimum comfort, safety, and therapeutic benefit as well as used for providing improved comfort on a continuous basis and/or in response to detected or predicted vehicle, road, or atmospheric conditions. |
| US09688159B2 |
Methods, apparatus, and systems for preventing over-temperature battery operation
Methods and systems for preventing over-temperature conditions in vehicle battery packs. In some implementations, such methods may comprise measuring a resistance within a contactor of an electric vehicle, estimating a temperature of the contactor using the measured resistance, and comparing the estimated temperature of the contactor with a threshold temperature. In some implementations, upon determining that the estimated temperature has exceeded the threshold temperature, the current delivered through the contactor may be limited. |
| US09688157B2 |
Providing vehicles with electric energy by magnetic induction
An arrangement for providing a vehicle with electric energy, wherein the arrangement includes a generating device for inducing an alternating electric current by magnetic induction in a corresponding receiving device, wherein the arrangement comprises a base to which the generating device is attached, the base defines a vehicle location an elevated region sideways of the vehicle location, wherein an upper surface of the elevated region is elevated compared to an upper surface of the base under the vehicle location, an elongated profile includes an electrically conducting material and/or a magnetizable material, wherein the elongated profile is attached to the elevated region and extends along an extension of the generating device in a longitudinal direction of the arrangement and wherein an elevated profile extends upwards towards a level of the upper surface of the elevated region and also extends towards the vehicle location. |
| US09688155B2 |
Authentication and pairing of a mobile device to an external power source
A mobile device communicates with an authenticator affiliated with a recharging facility, to identify itself. To confirm that the mobile device is connected to the correct facility, the authenticator instructs the mobile device to draw electrical charge according to an identifiable pattern. Upon detecting a charge being drawn according to that pattern, the authenticator has confirmation that the identified device is connected to the facility, and permits the charging to proceed. The amount of electricity drawn during the charging procedure can be metered, and then billed to a party associated with the identified mobile device. |
| US09688153B2 |
Electric vehicle
An electric vehicle includes: an engine which is disposed on a front side in the vehicle, and which is configured to drive rear wheels of the vehicle, the engine which includes a crank shaft that is extended in a front/back direction of the vehicle; and a drive motor which is arranged in line with the engine in a width direction of the vehicle, and which is disposed on an air intake side of the engine, the drive motor which is configured to drive front wheels of the vehicle. |
| US09688152B2 |
Hybrid power and energy for robots
Advances in robot performance have been limited by a lack of advances in the mature field of battery technology. The focus of robotic power systems must expand from the use of single energy devices to the inclusion of multiple devices which can be optimized for a robotic platform. The challenge lies in the development of the hardware and control algorithms for a scalable power delivery architecture which satisfies the power and energy requirements of most unmanned ground vehicles. This invention is directed to an architecture which is easily scalable and facilitates the use of a wide variety of energy storage/generation devices, while focusing on the system control algorithm and its stability. The experimental results for an example system are presented demonstrating that the architecture functions properly when faced with real world robotic power demands. |
| US09688151B2 |
Vehicle brake device
The vehicle brake device includes a hydraulic pressure brake device including a timing judging portion, a pressure increasing judging portion and a raising control portion for adding a raising amount of pressure selected and set from a first value relating to an allowable range, a second value relating to a response delay by filling a wheel cylinder with the operating fluid and a third value relating to a control delay relative to an electromagnetic valve which controls the hydraulic pressure braking force to the target pressure corresponding to a judgment result by the pressure increasing judging portion, when the timing judging portion judges that a time is the timing of raising. |
| US09688148B2 |
Device for controlling different functions of a motor vehicle
A device for controlling a plurality of different functions of a motor vehicle has an operator control element with which in each case one of the plurality of different functions can be actuated, and a touch-sensitive field which has a plurality of sections, each of which is at least temporarily assigned one of the different functions and which are provided with symbols corresponding to the respective function. A function can be selected by selecting one of the sections. In each case the function which was selected from the touch-sensitive field can be actuated the operator control element. A display device, in which the respectively selected function can be displayed a symbol, is provided on the operator control element or in the direct vicinity of the operator control element. |
| US09688145B2 |
Terminal, vehicle having the same and method of controlling the same
A terminal includes: a storage unit configured to store a plurality of pieces of software, each having a function restriction level and in which a plurality of functions are selectively restricted, and store a plurality of applications; a communication unit configured to receive driving information of a vehicle and external environment information; a control unit configured to identify a function restriction level corresponding to a driving condition of the vehicle based on the received driving information and external environment information, determine software corresponding to the identified function restriction level, and restrict and control a function of at least one application of the plurality of stored applications using the determined software; and an output unit configured to output execution information of the at least one application whose function is restricted and controlled. |
| US09688144B2 |
Display device for a motor vehicle and test method for a display device of a motor vehicle
A display device for a motor vehicle includes: a display for displaying vehicle information; a computing device receiving vehicle data via a data bus, evaluating the received vehicle data, and causing an acoustic warning as a function of the evaluation of the vehicle data; and a connection between the display device and a loudspeaker for outputting of the acoustic warning, the connection to the loudspeaker being connected to an input of an evaluation device in such a way that, depending on a signal present at the connection of the loudspeaker, a malfunctioning or a functioning of the acoustic output is determined, and an optical warning display is provided for outputting an optical warning in the case of a malfunction of the acoustic output. |
| US09688141B2 |
Clutch control device for four-wheel drive vehicle
A clutch control device is provided for a four-wheel drive vehicle. The clutch control device is able to suppress the elevation of the temperature of the oil supplied to a friction clutch during two-wheel drive travel when the friction clutch is released. The clutch control device includes a dog clutch and an electronic control coupling. The friction clutch is housed in a coupling case. When the dog clutch and the friction clutch are released, a two-wheel drive mode is selected. The coupling case has a passage opening that is closed to retain lubrication oil in an oil chamber with respect to a clutch chamber that houses the friction clutch. When oil stirring conditions are met thereafter, the passage opening is opened and the lubrication oil is allowed to flow into the clutch chamber from the oil chamber. |
| US09688136B2 |
Charging housing or filler neck housing
A charging housing or filler neck housing for insertion into a body opening in a motor vehicle comprises a housing body with a passage opening. A plug-in charging connector or a tank filler pipe can be inserted into the passage opening, and a sealing ring is arranged on the passage opening. The sealing ring has an annular sealing body, from which a first elastic sealing lip and a second elastic sealing lip extend, wherein the first sealing lip is designed to bear against a plug-in charging connector or tank filler pipe inserted into the passage opening, and wherein the second sealing lip is designed to bear against a closure flap closing the filler neck housing or charging housing. |
| US09688132B2 |
Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle uses a first motor, a second motor and an engine as driving force sources and includes a gear transmission mechanism and an oil supply mechanism. The gear transmission mechanism transmits torque, output from the first motor, to a drive shaft side. The oil supply mechanism is driven by power other than power of the engine to supply oil to the gear transmission mechanism. When the hybrid vehicle is caused to travel by using the torque output from at least the first motor in a state where operation of the engine is stopped, and when an estimated amount of oil that is supplied from the oil supply mechanism to the gear transmission mechanism is smaller than or equal to a predetermined amount, an electronic control unit limits an operation state of the first motor such that load on the gear transmission mechanism decreases. |
| US09688123B2 |
Load transmission member
A load transmission member includes an outside load transmission member attached to one face of a panel member; an inside load transmission member attached to a position corresponding to the outside load transmission member at the other face of the panel member, and a temporary attachment device provided on at least one of the outside load transmission member or the inside load transmission member for temporarily attaching to the panel member. A load is transmitted through the panel member from the outside load transmission member to the inside load transmission member. |
| US09688122B2 |
Motor vehicle window assembly with defrost
A motor vehicle window assembly, one implementation of which includes a wiper in electrical communication between a defrost grid of a movable window and an elongate conductor of a guide rail assembly having a straight guide portion and an oblique guide portion, and in contact with the elongate conductor when the movable window is in an open position. At least one implementation of the window assembly includes an actuator cable including a core having a terminus coupled to a cable connector portion of the movable window, wherein when the actuator cable is actuated, the movable window moves in a direction extending away from the open position along a plane, toward a closed position out of the plane, and into the closed position in another plane such that the terminus of the core is carried out of the plane by the movable window. |
| US09688121B2 |
Rear window module and convertible vehicle having a rear window module
A rear window module of a vehicle having a window body, which can be advanced in guide rails that are fixed relative to the vehicle, between a lifted closed position and a lowered open position. The window body, in relation to a vertical longitudinal center plane, at each of its two lateral edges, is provided with a sliding element, which is guided in the relevant guide rail and is fixed to the window body, being spaced apart from a lower window edge. |
| US09688119B2 |
Apparatus and method for regenerating odor absorbent in a motor vehicle HVAC system
An apparatus is provided for regenerating an odor absorbent in a motor vehicle HVAC system. That apparatus includes a regeneration blower assembly that is connected between a heater plenum and a fresh air inlet duct of the HVAC system. Air is drawn from the passenger cabin of the motor vehicle through the heater plenum where that air is warmed. The warmed air is directed through the odor absorbent to remove odors and regenerate the odor absorbent. The warm air and the odors entrained therein is discharged through a fresh air inlet of the HVAC system. |
| US09688115B2 |
Methods and systems for producing the environmental conditions of a media asset in a vehicle
Methods and systems are disclosed for a guidance application capable of coordinating the interior features of a vehicle (e.g., the heating/cooling system, automatic windows, automatic seats, automatic sunroof, seat heaters, etc.) to produce the current environmental conditions (e.g., sunshine, heat, wind, etc.) displayed in a media asset being accessed in the vehicle. |
| US09688112B2 |
Gas spring assembly for a vehicle suspension system
A gas spring for a vehicle suspension system includes a cylinder, a rod disposed within the cylinder, the rod and the cylinder defining a chamber, and an accumulator in communication with the chamber. The rod and the cylinder are configured such that a relative movement therebetween changes the volume of the chamber. Gas in the chamber and the accumulator are configured to cooperate to at least partially provide a spring rate that varies based on at least one of a deflection and a spring force associated with at least one of the rod and the cylinder. |
| US09688107B2 |
Tire pressure decrease detection apparatus and method, and computer readable medium therefor
A tire pressure decreased detection apparatus comprising rotation speed information detection means, rotation acceleration information calculation means, resonance frequency estimate means for time-series estimating a torsional resonance frequency of the rotation speed information, correlation calculation means for, regarding left and right wheels of driving wheels, calculating a time series correlation of the rotation acceleration information of the left and right wheels, and determination means for determining a decrease in pressure of the tires based on the estimated torsional resonance frequency. In a case where the correlation exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the resonance frequency estimate means stops estimating the torsional resonance frequency. |
| US09688105B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire, comprising: a tread surface; a plurality of grooves formed in the tread surface, including a plurality of widthwise grooves each extending from a corresponding tread end on the inner side in the tread width direction and a plurality of circumferential grooves each extending in the tread circumferential direction to intersect the widthwise grooves; blocks demarcated by the plurality of grooves; and a chamfered portion formed at a corner, on the trailing edge side and on the outer side in the tread width direction, of each block. |
| US09688103B2 |
Motorcycle tire
A motorcycle tire has a unidirectional tread pattern formed by a circumferentially extending center main groove, and main oblique grooves each with a branch groove. The main oblique groove has an axially inner end inside a zero-camber ground contacting width and an axially outer end outside the zero-camber ground contacting width. The axially outer end is positioned in a range between 0% and 20% of the developed half tread width from the tread edge. The branch groove is composed of a first inclined part extending from the main oblique groove at an angle θ with respect to the tire circumferential direction, and a second inclined part extending at an angle δ less than the angle θ. When the developed half tread width is axially equally divided into five portions, the land ratio of each of the five portions is 75% to 85%. |
| US09688102B2 |
Motorcycle tire
A motorcycle tire improved in transient characteristics when leaned is disclosed, wherein the tread portion has a unidirectional tread pattern comprising: inside oblique main grooves disposed on each side of the tire equator staggeredly, inclined to the axially outside toward the intended rotational direction (R) at an angle of 5 to 30 degrees with respect to the circumferential direction, and each having an inner end (Ai) at a distance of 0 to 30% of the half tread width (W) from the tire equator; and outside oblique main grooves 11 disposed on each side of the tire equator staggeredly, inclined to the axially outside toward the counter-rotational direction at an angle of 10 to 60 degrees with respect to the circumferential direction, and each having an inner end (Bi) axially inside the outer end (Ao). |
| US09688098B2 |
Wheel hub cover arrangement and wheel hub for a motor vehicle
A wheel hub cover arrangement for covering an outwardly directed wheel hub opening of a wheel hub, which has a cover surface element which is connected to the wheel hub via a wall member and a connection member in such a way that the cover surface element and the wall member enclose a cover volume, wherein at least one venting opening for venting and for pressure-equalizing a vehicle shaft connected to the wheel hub is provided, wherein at least one outlet opening for removing splash water from the cover volume is provided in the wall member, wherein provisions are provided which ensure a fluid connection of the outlet opening with the surroundings of the wall member. |
| US09688097B2 |
Method for producing composite bicycle rim
A bicycle rim made of composite material has structural fibers incorporated in a polymeric material. The rim has at least one circumferential reinforcement element based on unidirectional structural fibers extending at a respective intersection of walls of the rim, the direction of the structural fiber being circumferential. |
| US09688095B1 |
Vehicle safety wheel
A vehicle safety wheel is disclosed having a central disk and a rim concentrically disposed around the central disk. The central disk is compatible for mounting to a vintage hub with conventional wheel mounting hardware. The rim has an inboard flange and an outboard flange for mounting a tire to the rim, and an inner flange disposed inwardly of the outboard flange, concentric with the outboard flange for defining an annular-shaped space there-between. A fascia is adapted for mounting in the annular-shaped space, circumferentially extending between the outboard flange and the inner flange, with the fascia forming a visually continuous surface with a sidewall of the tire. The fascia may be embedded with a light source which is controlled in brightness and flashing by one of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a brake sensor, and a turn sensor. |
| US09688094B2 |
Method for cutting substrate
A method for cutting a substrate includes: radiating, as part of a first laser radiating process, a laser towards a surface of the substrate to form a first groove in a substrate. Radiating the laser towards the surface includes radiating, in sequence, the laser towards a first outer point (FOP), a second outer point (SOP), a first intermediate point (FIP), a second intermediate point (SIP), and a first cut point (FCP) of the surface, each of the points being spaced apart from one another by one or more distances. The FCP corresponds to a cut line of the substrate. The FOP and the SOP are respectively disposed at lateral sides of the FCP. The FIP is disposed between the FCP and the FOP. The SIP is disposed between the FCP and the SOP. The same kind and intensity of laser is radiated towards each of the points. |
| US09688093B2 |
Enclosing-sealing device and image formation system having the same
An enclosing-sealing device for preparing a sealed matter by sealing an envelope with a content enclosed in the envelope includes a content formation unit, an envelope formation unit, a content delivery unit, a seal unit, a delivery timing determiner, and a delivery controller. The content delivery unit delivers the content delivered from the content formation unit to the envelope formation unit such that the content is enclosed in a sheet of envelope paper while being folded. The seal unit seals the envelope delivered from the envelope formation unit with the content enclosed in the envelope. The delivery timing determiner determines a delivery timing of the content by the content delivery unit based on inputted information about at least one of the content and the envelope. The delivery controller controls the content delivery unit to deliver the content to the envelope formation unit in accordance with the determined delivery timing. |
| US09688087B2 |
Ink jet printer and print method
An ink jet printer that performs printing on the three-dimensional object using an ink jet scheme is provided, the printer includes an ink jet head, and a print object retaining section, the print object retaining section includes a first shaft, a second shaft, a third shaft, and a rotation driving section, a distance between the first shaft and the second shaft is larger than a distance between the first shaft and the third shaft, and in a case of performing printing on a three-dimensional object having a cylindrically shaped portion, the print object retaining section retains the three-dimensional object by mounting the cylindrically shaped portion on the first shaft and the second shaft, or on the first shaft and the third shaft, and the rotation driving section causes the three-dimensional object to rotate by causing at least the first shaft to rotate. |
| US09688085B2 |
Printer
A printer configured to perform printing on recording paper includes a body and a lid. The body includes a holder configured to accommodate the recording paper. The lid is attached to the body to be opened and closed relative to the body. An opening is formed at the bottom of the holder to allow attachment of a function module to the bottom of the holder. |
| US09688081B1 |
Droplet drying device and image forming apparatus
There is provided a droplet drying device including: a light source that irradiates, with light, and dries a droplet ejected to a recording medium by a forming unit that ejects the droplet to form an image; a reading unit that reads a specifying image in which a light emitting condition of the light source is specified and which is formed by the forming unit in a region out of an image forming region on the recording medium; and a light source controller that controls the light source such that the light source emits light in accordance with the light emitting condition specified in the specifying image read by the reading unit so as to irradiate the droplet with the light. |
| US09688078B1 |
Method and apparatus for printing on a spherical object
An apparatus, method and non-transitory computer readable medium for printing on a spherical object are disclosed. For example, the apparatus includes a print head, at least two wheels, wherein each one of the at least two wheels rotates around a single axis, at least one ball support coupled to a mechanical arm, wherein the at least one ball support rotates 360 degrees around and is positioned to secure the spherical object against the at least two wheels and a controller in communication with the print head and the at least two wheels to rotate the spherical object via the at least two wheels into a position to print via the print head. |
| US09688077B1 |
Ink jet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus according to an embodiment includes an ink jet head, a diaphragm-type first pump, a diaphragm-type second pump and a control device. The inkjet head ejects ink to an image receiving medium. The first pump supplies ink introduced from an ink storage section to the ink jet head. The second pump sucks ink that is not discharged from the ink jet head and discharges the sucked ink to a discharge chamber adjacent to a discharge section of the first pump at the upstream part of an ink supply path connected with the ink jet head. The control device drives the first pump and the second pump with same-phase driving voltage waveforms to make discharge timing of the first pump matching with that of the second pump. |
| US09688075B2 |
Ink cartridge, ink cartridge chip, and short-circuit detection method of chip
Disclosed is an ink cartridge, ink cartridge chip, and short-circuit detection method of chip. The ink cartridge chip comprises: a short-circuit detection terminal, which is disposed between a connecting terminal to be detected and one or more connecting terminals other than the connecting terminal to be detected; a short-circuit detection and processing unit, which is connected to a voltage division and power supply unit and one or more connecting terminals other than the connecting terminal to be detected; and a voltage division and power supply unit, which is connected to the short-circuit detection and processing unit and the connecting terminal to be detected, for dividing voltage from the connecting terminal to be detected and transmitting an obtained low voltage to the short-circuit detection and processing unit. The present disclosure is able to reduce costs and satisfy long-term use of short-circuit detection in the ink cartridge chips. |
| US09688074B1 |
Fluidic dispensing device having multiple stir bars
A fluidic dispensing device includes a housing having an exterior wall and a fluid reservoir. The exterior wall has a chip mounting surface defining a first plane, and has an opening in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. An ejection chip is mounted to the chip mounting surface of the housing and is in fluid communication with the opening. The ejection chip has a plurality of ejection nozzles oriented such that a fluid ejection direction is substantially orthogonal to the first plane. A plurality of stir bars are moveably confined within the fluid reservoir. Each of the plurality of stir bars has a respective plurality of paddles, each having a free end tip. The free end tip of the respective plurality of paddles of at least one stir bar intermittently faces toward the opening as the plurality of stir bars rotate. |
| US09688073B2 |
Liquid supply device and image forming apparatus
A liquid supply device and an image forming apparatus in which the maintenance of a concentration detecting device is improved are obtained. The liquid supply device includes a flow passage through which liquid to be imparted to paper flows; a case including an inlet that is fixed to the flow passage and introduces a liquid from the flow passage, and an outlet that leads the liquid out to the flow passage; and a concentration detecting device that is openably and closably or attachably and detachably attached to the case and includes a detection unit, which detects the concentration of the liquid, at a position that faces the case. |
| US09688066B2 |
Method of testing print head, printing method, device for testing print head, and printer
A plurality of recording elements included in a printed head are grouped into a plurality of groups, a test order is set in units of groups, and a test of the recording elements is periodically performed in units of groups in the set test order. In a case where an abnormality is detected in the recording element as a result of the test, the recording element in which an abnormality is detected is recognized as a retest target, an order of tests is changed through interruption, and a retest of a group including the recording element recognized as a retest target is performed. In a case where an abnormality is detected again in the recording element that is a retest target as a result of the retest, the recording element that is a retest target is recognized as an abnormal recording element. |
| US09688065B2 |
Transfer film, transfer method and inkjet recording apparatus
The present invention addresses the problem of forming, using a sublimation ink, an image that is free of outline blurring on a transfer medium even when the thickness of an ink fixation layer is increased. In order to solve this problem, a transfer film 10 is provided with a base material film 11, a transfer binder layer 12, a sublimation ink layer 13, and a mask layer 14 which is provided in a region where sublimation ink is not transferred to media 100, the transfer binder layer 12 being configured from a material which is permeated by sublimation of the sublimation ink. |
| US09688062B2 |
Substrate peeling apparatus and method of fabricating device using the same
A method of fabricating a device includes providing a process substrate on a carrier substrate, where the process substrate has a rectangular shape with a pair of long sides and a pair of short sides, providing a device on the process substrate, and continuously peeling the process substrate from the carrier substrate along a curve passing through a starting point which is one of vertices the process substrate, where the curve substantially perpendicularly passes through one of the short sides spaced apart from the starting point. |
| US09688059B2 |
Method of assembling an inflatable insulation panel
An inflatable or gas-filled insulation panel comprises an envelope having two outer sheets sealed together along edges of the sheets and at least one of the sheets has an outer reflective surface. The envelope encases a plurality of internal films that include a polymeric film having a plurality of reflective stripes disposed thereon and spaced apart on the films. Seals are formed along the gaps or areas between the reflective stripes on the films by application of heat and pressure, which causes the films to seal to each other and the outer sheets at spaced apart intervals. A channel is formed between the outer edges of the films and the outer sheets, and a valve, disposed at an end of the panel, is in fluid communication with the channel for the injection of a fluid, such as an inert gas or air, to inflate panel. |
| US09688057B2 |
Multilayered biodegradable film
A multilayered biodegradable film comprising at least one first resin layer and at least one second resin layer, wherein the first and second resin layers are alternately layered; the first resin layer comprises a polylactic acid-based polymer; the second resin layer comprises an aliphatic polyester-based resin or an aliphatic-aromatic copolymerized polyester-based resin; and the film has a coloring peak value of 0.3 or less, a haze of 10% or less, and an elastic modulus of 300 kgf/mm2 or less, exhibits improved flexibility and transparency, which is useful for environmentally friendly packaging. |
| US09688050B2 |
Panel structure
A panel structure and a method of forming the panel structure are disclosed. The panel structure typically includes at least one panel associated with a material. The panel structure has been found particularly advantageous for use as an interior panel of an airplane. |
| US09688047B2 |
Hemmed structure and hemming method
A hemmed structure includes a first member and a second member. The first member is a sheet-like member including a thermoplastic resin and includes an inner bent portion formed at a position at which an end portion of the first member is bent. The second member is a sheet-like member a metal material and includes an outer bent portion formed at a position at which an end portion of the second member is bent. The outer bent portion is disposed so as to wrap around the inner bent portion, and the end portion of the second member is disposed inside the inner bent portion. A brittle portion is formed on an inner surface of the inner bent portion. |
| US09688044B2 |
Method and device for producing a cushioning product and cushioning product
The invention relates to a method for producing a cushioning product (88), comprising the following steps: providing a flat, longitudinal, two- or multilayered paper strip (10), wherein the individual layers (12, 14) of the paper strip (10) are connected to one another in at least some sections in a middle area (18) extending in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the individual layers (12, 14) of the paper strip (10) comprise marginal areas (20, 21, 22, 23) which are not connected to one another, opening adjacent marginal areas (20, 21, 22, 23) to form a paper strip (10) having a star-shaped cross section, and crumpling the paper strip (10) along the middle area (18). |
| US09688043B2 |
Uninterrupted bag making machine
An uninterrupted bag making machine includes a conveyance unit, a conveyance unit driving means, a sealing unit having sealing assemblies, a sealing unit driving means, a perforating unit having a cutting device, a perforating unit, a perforating unit driving means, a breaking unit, and a control unit. With the conveyance unit, a film tube is conveyed to pass through the sealing unit, the perforating unit, and the breaking unit. Furthermore, with the control unit in cooperation with various driving means, the sealing assemblies can be moved in the direction of the film tube being moved, and the cutting device of the perforating unit is rotated in synchronous with the film tube being moved. As such, the film tube can be processed with sealing operations, perforating operations, and breaking operations at predetermined locations along the film tube without an interruption, so that the production rate and capacity can be increased. |
| US09688037B2 |
Tyre layer application assembly and method
A tire layer application assembly and a method for applying a tire layer around a substantially circular circumferential surface of an object. The assembly is provided with a drive which, during application, is coupled to the object for driving the object in a driven rotation about a concentric axis of rotation with respect to the circumferential surface, wherein the assembly includes a tracking device which, during application, is arranged to be fixed to a part of the tire layer that is applied to the circumferential surface, wherein the tracking device is rotatable in a tracking rotation about the axis of rotation of the object, independent of the driven rotation of the object about the same axis of rotation. |
| US09688036B2 |
Post cure inflator
A post cure tire inflator is provided for use with a tire press to inflate and cure vulcanized tires. The post cure inflator includes a frame fixed between a pair of outer support columns, a first movable beam that is linearly movable relative to the frame, and a second movable beam that is linearly movable relative to both of the frame and the first movable beam. A pair of inflator stations is arranged in a vertically separated formation with each inflator station including a pair of axially aligned, vertically separable tire inflating chuck rings. One of the tire inflating chuck rings from each pair of inflator stations is secured to the frame, and the other tire inflating chuck ring from each pair of inflator stations is secured to one of the first and second movable beams. |