| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09727324B2 |
Application management in enterprise environments using cloud-based application recipes
A cloud-based system is described for producing application deltas based on application recipes that identify components of the application deltas using unique identifiers, without the recipe containing all or any content of the actual application. The application recipe can be conveyed to an organization operating on an enterprise network, where the application recipe can be matched with application files in the organization's backup storage containing copies of content of endpoint devices on the network to retrieve components identified by the recipe and produce the application delta for the application. Subsequently, the application delta can be used as an installation package to perform IT operations such as installing the application on endpoint devices. |
| US09727319B1 |
Reducing compilation time using profile-directed feedback
A method for significantly reducing compilation time of an application program is provided for compiling the program using profile-directed feedback (PDF). The method applies an additional analysis process between a training run of the application program and a whole program compilation of the application. This analysis process examines a PDF profile file(s) produced during the training run and aggregates data from the PDF file to determine a maximum block counter associated with each source file of the application. Only those source files having maximum block counters in a specified top percent of all the source files of the application have their fat binaries included in the whole program compilation. |
| US09727315B2 |
Automated blueprint assembly for assembling an application
The embodiments provide a data processing apparatus for automated blueprint assembly. The data processing apparatus includes a micro-blueprint assembler configured to receive a request for automated blueprint assembly for assembling an application, where the request specifies at least one feature, and a model database configured to store model data. The model data includes a plurality of classes and class properties. The data processing apparatus further includes a micro-blueprint database configured to store a plurality of micro-blueprints. Each micro-blueprint corresponds to a functional component of a stack element or service tier, and the functional component is annotated with one or more classes of the plurality of classes and at least one required capability and available capability. The micro-blueprint assembler is configured to generate at least one application blueprint based on the model data and the plurality of micro-blueprints according to the request. |
| US09727311B2 |
Generating a service definition including a common service action
A method and system for generating a set of service definitions relating to a computer application based on a set of interaction models relating to a set of participants in the interaction models. For each participant, a set of message traces is extracted from the set of interaction models and common message events in each message trace are identified. The common message events are transformed into service actions and a service definition is generated including the service actions. The generated service definition may then be deployed on a suitable computing system, such as, for example, a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) platform. |
| US09727309B2 |
Computer-readable recording medium, encoding apparatus, and encoding method
An encoding apparatus detects a bit repeating portion in a mantissa part bit string. The mantissa part bit string is a part of a bit string of a floating point number and corresponds to a mantissa of the floating point number. The floating point number has a sign, an exponent, and the mantissa. The bit repeating portion includes repetitions of a particular bit pattern up to a tail of the mantissa part bit string. The encoding apparatus encodes the bit string of the floating point number into a converted bit string with a first part bit string and a second part bit string. The first part bit string includes a sign part bit string, an exponent part bit string, and a part of the mantissa part bit string that exclude a bit string portion after a secondary repetition of the particular bit pattern. The second part bit string specifies the particular bit pattern in the first part bit string. |
| US09727304B2 |
Obtaining content from direct source and other source
A system is described for maintaining synchrony of operations among a plurality of devices that have independent clocking arrangements. The system includes a task distribution device that distributes tasks to a synchrony group comprising a plurality of devices that are to perform the tasks distributed by the task distribution device in synchrony. The task distribution device distributes each task to the members of the synchrony group over a network. Each task is associated with a time stamp that indicates a time, relative to a clock maintained by the task distribution device, at which the members of the synchrony group are to execute the task. Each member of the synchrony group periodically obtains from the task distribution device an indication of the current time indicated by its clock, determines a time differential between the task distribution device's clock and its respective clock and determines therefrom a time at which, according to its respective clock, the time stamp indicates that it is to execute the task. |
| US09727303B2 |
Resuming synchronous playback of content
A system is described for maintaining synchrony of operations among a plurality of devices that have independent clocking arrangements. The system includes a task distribution device that distributes tasks to a synchrony group comprising a plurality of devices that are to perform the tasks distributed by the task distribution device in synchrony. The task distribution device distributes each task to the members of the synchrony group over a network. Each task is associated with a time stamp that indicates a time, relative to a clock maintained by the task distribution device, at which the members of the synchrony group are to execute the task. Each member of the synchrony group periodically obtains from the task distribution device an indication of the current time indicated by its clock, determines a time differential between the task distribution device's clock and its respective clock and determines therefrom a time at which, according to its respective clock, the time stamp indicates that it is to execute the task. |
| US09727300B2 |
Identifying the positioning in a multiple display grid
In an approach for determining relative positioning in a multiple display grid, a processor receives positioning information from sensors operably affixed to at least a first display and a second display. A processor analyzes the positioning information to determine a relative positioning between at least the first display and the second display. A processor generates an extended display on the at least the first display and the second display, based on the analyzed positioning information. |
| US09727299B2 |
Apparatus having curved display
An electronic paper display unit includes a protective case, which is made of a transparent material, a display, which is installed in the protective case, is powered to display desired image information, and includes a plurality of divided regions, and a control module, which is electrically connected with the display, and includes a first mode transmitting a divided mode signal such that many pieces of image information are independently displayed on the respective divided regions and a second mode transmitting an integrated mode signal such that one piece of image information is displayed throughout the overall divided regions. Further, a mobile communication terminal can visually display various pieces of image information thereon according to selection of a user. |
| US09727298B2 |
Device and method for allocating data based on an arrangement of elements in an image
A host device may include an imaging unit configured to capture an image of a guest device, and a communication unit configured to communicate with the guest device. The host device may include circuitry configured to identify, in the image of the guest device, identification information corresponding to the guest device, the identification information being displayed on a screen included on the guest device. The circuitry may calculate, based on the identification of the identification information in the image, an arrangement position of the guest device. The circuitry may assign, based on the calculated arrangement position, assigned data to the guest device. The circuitry may transmit one or more of the calculated arrangement position and information associated with the assigned data to the guest device. |
| US09727296B2 |
Display switching method, information processing method and electronic device
A wearable electronic device and a display switching method thereof, includes turning on a first display apparatus of the wearable electronic device to make the first display apparatus in a working state; rendering a first image in a first display region of the first display apparatus with a first display effect by the first display apparatus; obtaining first parameter information related to an input operation, by a sensing apparatus of the wearable electronic device; judging whether a second display apparatus of the wearable electronic device is to be turned on or not, according to the sensing parameter; and rendering a second image in a second display region of the second display apparatus with a second display effect by the second display apparatus, when the second display apparatus is to be turned on to make the second display apparatus in the working state. |
| US09727295B2 |
Extendable display mechanism
A system can include a processor; memory operatively coupled to the processor; a first display unit that includes a first planar display operatively coupled to the processor; a second display unit that includes a second planar display; and a mechanism that selectively transitions the first planar display and the second planar display between a stacked orientation and a side-by-side orientation that forms a planar extended display operatively coupled to the processor. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09727293B1 |
Method and apparatus for paginating electronic documents
A method and apparatus for paginating documents such as html documents is disclosed. A document viewing engine generates a preliminary layout for the, the preliminary layout having a layout width that is equivalent to a viewport width of a viewport on which the document will be displayed. The document viewing engine computes a final layout for the document based on determining a plurality of horizontal pixel lines where page breaks can be placed without cutting off any element in the document and assigns page breaks to one or more of the plurality of horizontal pixel lines based on a height of the viewport. The document viewing engine identifies, for a current page, one or more visual elements that will not be fully within the viewport if painted. The document viewing engine paints the current page without painting the identified one or more visual elements. After changing from the current page to a new page, the document viewing engine paints the contents of the new page without re-computing the final layout of the document. |
| US09727290B2 |
Management apparatus and method for setting data values on an information processing apparatus
A management apparatus configured to communicate with a plurality of information processing apparatuses generates common data to be set into the plurality of information processing apparatuses in common and individual data to be individually set into any one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses, in such a manner that the common data and the individual data are associated with an installation location, identification information for identifying an information processing apparatus to be set being not finalized for the any one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses. The management apparatus registers and manages the common data and the individual data in a storage unit. |
| US09727288B2 |
Methods and systems for automatically printing files
Disclosed are a system, an apparatus, and a method for automatically printing printable files stored inside an external storage device without any intervention of a user. The apparatus comprises a peripheral port for communicating with the external storage device and a control section comprising a memory for storing computer readable program code and a processor for executing the code to control the apparatus. The computer readable program code being configured to cause the apparatus to execute a process for determining availability of the optional instruction in the external storage device and printing at least one copy of the fetched printable files based on the determined availability of the optional instruction. |
| US09727282B2 |
Job processing apparatus to display screens based on interrupt and logged in user
A job processing apparatus includes an execution unit that carries out a job and a display unit. The display unit displays, when a first interrupt factor is generated in the job being carried out, a first screen regarding an operation for resuming the job which the first interrupt factor has impacted, and displays, when a second interrupt factor is generated, a second screen regarding an operation for resuming the job which the second interrupt factor has impacted. Based on the first interrupt factor, the display unit displays the first screen while the previous user is logging in to the job processing apparatus and while a different user from the previous user is logging in. Based on the second interrupt factor, the display unit displays the second screen while the previous user is logging in and does not display the second screen while the different user is logging in. |
| US09727280B2 |
Modifying generic workform received from host with specific input plug-in data based on selected capability of workform performing device
A host device includes a communication interface unit to be connected to a workform performing device, a workform generation unit to perform a job and generate a workform to which a universal plug-in is applied, a storage unit to store at least one of the workform generated by the workform generation unit and a workform transmitted from an external device, and a control unit to control the communication interface unit to transmit the at least one stored workform to the workform performing device according to a command to perform a job. |
| US09727279B2 |
Storage control apparatus controlling issuable number of requests and storage control method thereof
A storage control apparatus including a storage unit and a processor. The processor is configured to set an issuable number with respect to a logical volume on basis of a configuration of storage devices constituting the logical volume and performance of the storage devices. The issuable number is a number of requests issuable to the logical volume during a unit time period. The processor is configured to receive a request requesting access to the logical volume. The processor is configured to accumulate the received request in the storage unit. The processor is configured to issue requests accumulated in the storage unit to the logical volume while limiting a number of issued requests during the unit time period to a range of the issuable number. |
| US09727278B2 |
System and methods for mitigating write emulation on a disk device using cache memory
An emulation mitigation module is configured to mitigate emulation of legacy write requests on advanced disk devices using cached data stored in a cache memory of a storage system. A legacy write request may comprise write data blocks formatted in a legacy sector size while an advanced disk device may be formatted in an advanced sector size. The emulation mitigation module may execute a first method for modifying write requests using cached data, a second method for enforcing a minimum requested data size sent to the advanced disk device, and/or a third method for conditionally retrieving data from the advanced disk device and storing to cache. In some embodiments, the second and/or third method may be used with the first method to increase the effectiveness of the first method. The emulation mitigation module may improve performance and/or data integrity for of processing legacy write requests. |
| US09727270B2 |
Device and method for processing placement data, and method for loading and unloading article
A device for processing placement data according to the present invention is provided with an article data memory unit that stores article data including a configuration and a storage period of an article, a storage-region data memory unit that stores storage region data including a shape of a storage region where the article is placed, a temporal-spatial map data memory unit that stores temporal-spatial map data showing positions of the article and the storage region in space-time specified by a user, and a computation device that creates the temporal-spatial map data and acquires a placement position of the article in time series in the storage region using the article data, the storage region data and the temporal-spatial map data. |
| US09727269B2 |
System and method for retaining DRAM data when reprogramming reconfigurable devices with DRAM memory controllers incorporating a data maintenance block colocated with a memory module or subsystem
A system and method for retaining dynamic random access memory (DRAM) data when reprogramming reconfigurable devices with DRAM memory controllers such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The DRAM memory controller is utilized in concert with a data maintenance block collocated with the DRAM memory and coupled to an I2C interface of the reconfigurable device, wherein the FPGA drives the majority of the DRAM input/output (I/O) and the data maintenance block drives the self-refresh command inputs. Even though the FPGA reconfigures and the majority of the DRAM inputs are tri-stated, the data maintenance block provides stable input levels on the self-refresh command inputs. |
| US09727268B2 |
Management of storage in a storage network
A storage block may include a first portion allocated for storage of network data associated with a storage network. The storage network may include the storage block and one or more other storage blocks. The storage block may further include a second portion allocated for storage of local data. The local data may be associated with one or more programs of a device that includes the storage block. Additionally, the storage block may include a third portion as free space of the storage block. The third portion may be maintained at approximately a target size through adjustments made to an amount of network data stored on the first portion. |
| US09727262B2 |
Low overhead resynchronization snapshot creation and utilization
One or more techniques and/or computing devices are provided for resynchronization. For example, a request may be received to create pseudo snapshots of a first consistency group, hosted by a first storage controller, and a second consistency group, hosted by a second storage controller, having a synchronous replication relationship with the first consistency group. Incoming client write requests are logged within an intercept tracking log at the first storage controller. After a first drain without hold of incoming write requests is performed, a first pseudo common snapshot of the second consistency group is created. After a second drain without hold of incoming write operations is performed, a second pseudo common snapshot of the first consistency group and the intercept tracking log is created. The pseudo snapshots and the intercept tracking log (e.g., indicating a delta between the pseudo snapshots) are used to resynchronize the first and second consistency groups. |
| US09727260B2 |
Method and system for simultaneously achieving capacity balancing and data striping in a storage system
Described herein are methods, systems and machine-readable media for migrating data between storage devices of a storage array. A metric is used to measure the optimality of candidate data migrations, the metric taking into account capacity balance and proper data striping. Candidate migrations are evaluated against the metric. The candidate migration that ranks as the best migration according to the metric may be carried out. This process of evaluating candidate migrations and carrying out the best candidate migration may be iterated until data is properly distributed among the storage devices of the storage array. |
| US09727254B2 |
Memory devices, systems and methods employing command/address calibration
During a command/address calibration mode, a memory controller may transmit multiple cycles of test patterns as signals to a memory device. Each cycle of test pattern signals may be transmitted at an adjusted relative phase with respect to a clock also transmitted to the memory device. The memory device may input the test pattern signals at a timing determined by the clock, such as rising and/or falling edges of the clock. The test pattern as input by the memory device may be sent to the memory controller to determine if the test pattern was successfully transmitted to the memory device during the cycle. Multiple cycles of test pattern transmissions are evaluated to determine a relative phase of command/address signals with respect to the clock for transmission during operation of the system. |
| US09727253B2 |
Data processing method, apparatus, and system
A data processing method, including dividing a to-be-processed data block into multiple data subblocks, where a quantity of the multiple data subblocks is less than or equal to a quantity of banks Banks of a memory, and performing an access operation on a bank corresponding to each data subblock of the to-be-processed block, where different data subblocks of the block are corresponding to different Banks of the memory. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a processor maps different data subblocks of a to-be-processed Block to different Banks, so that a quantity of inter-page access operations on a same Block may be reduced, thereby improving memory access efficiency when two contiguous memory access operations access different pages of a same bank. |
| US09727250B2 |
Nonvolatile memory system and operation method of a memory controller that manages page serial numbers according to program elapsed times of pages
A nonvolatile memory system includes a nonvolatile memory device and a memory controller. The nonvolatile memory device includes memory blocks each having a plurality of pages and performs a read operation on the plurality of pages on the basis of read voltages. The memory controller is configured to manage page serial numbers of some of the plurality of pages according to a program elapsed time of each of the plurality of pages. When the memory controller receives a read command and a logical address from an external device, the memory controller is configured to select at least one of the managed page serial numbers, to compare the selected at least one of the page serial numbers with a page serial number of a page corresponding to the received logical address, and to control levels of the read voltages according to a comparison result. |
| US09727248B2 |
Dynamic IO operation timeout assignment for a solid state drive
A storage system having an input-output (IO) component, a solid state drive (SSD) with multiple logical units (LUNs), e.g., flash storage units, and a controller coupled to the IO component and the SSD. The controller can cause the storage system to receive an operation request, determine various operational throughputs associated with outstanding commands of the SSD (e.g., read or write commands to be performed by the SSD), determine a time required for the SSD to process the outstanding commands based in part on the operational throughputs, and assign a timeout value to the received operation request. The timeout value may correspond to the time required for the SSD to process the outstanding commands. Any of the operational throughputs may be throttled when a die temperature of any of the SSD's LUNs exceeds an operating temperature threshold, or when an ambient temperature affecting SSD exceeds an ambient temperature threshold. |
| US09727243B2 |
Using inactive copy relationships to resynchronize data between storages
Provided are computer program product, system, and method for using inactive copy relationships to resynchronize data among n storages referenced as storages 1 through n, wherein n is greater than or equal to three. n−1 active copy relationships are established. Each active copy relationship copies data from one of the storages 1 through n−1 as a source storage to one other of the storages 2 through n as a target storage respectively. At least one inactive copy relationship is established to copy data from one of the storages 1 through n−1 as the source storage to one other of the storages 2 through n as a target storage, such that the source and target storages in the inactive copy relationship are not both also in a same of at least one of the active copy relationships. |
| US09727238B2 |
User-interface for entering alphanumerical characters
An information processing system has a display monitor and a user-interface for text entry. The display monitor presents the set of alphanumerical characters in a spatial configuration of three parallel horizontal rows or three parallel vertical columns. The “left”-button and the “right” button of the directional buttons of the user-interface control the selection of a group of alphanumerical characters, one of each of the three parallel arrays and positioned in the same column. The “up”-button and the “down”-button of the directional buttons and the “OK”-button, sitting in between, are used to select a specific one of the alphanumerical characters from the selected group. |
| US09727237B2 |
Management method and management system of keypad of handheld electronic device
A method of managing a keypad of a handheld electronic device comprises promoting a user whether a size of the keypad needs adjustment when the handheld electronic device is in a single hand operating mode. If the answer is yes, the handheld electronic device then detects a movement of a finger of the user on a touch screen thereof. When a movement of the finger along a diagonal direction of the keypad away from the keypad is detected, the size of the keypad is increased. When a movement of the finger alone the diagonal direction of the keypad toward the keypad is detected, the size of the keypad is decreased. When the movement of the finger is stopped and a “Done” button is pressed, the adjustment of the size of the keypad is completed, and the size of the keypad after adjustment is stored in a storage module. |
| US09727235B2 |
Switching an interface mode using an input gesture
A method, apparatus, and program product are disclosed for presenting an interactive interface on an electronic display of an information handling device, the interactive interface comprising a plurality of modes, receiving an input gesture from a user, the input gesture detected along a surface of the information handling device by a gesture detector, and changing a mode of the interactive interface in response to the received input gesture. |
| US09727234B2 |
System and method for appliance control via a personal communication or entertainment device
A system for use in controlling operating functions of a controllable device includes a hand-held device and an intermediate device in communication with the hand-held device and the controllable device. The hand-held device is adapted to receive a gesture based input and to transmit a signal having data representative of the gesture based input. The intermediate device has programming for translating the data representative of the gesture based input in a signal received from the hand-held device into a command signal to be communicated to the controllable device wherein the command signal has a format appropriate for controlling an operating function of the controllable device that is associated with the gesture based input. |
| US09727233B2 |
Touch device and control method and method for determining unlocking thereof
A touch device and a control method and a method for determining unlocking thereof are provided. The touch device includes image capturing units configured nearby a touch surface respectively, and light-reflected objects are configured around the touch surface. In this method, the image capturing units are used to detect a reflected signal to receive a first gesture on the touch surface when the touch device is operated in a touch-lock mode. The image capturing units emit a detecting signal along the touch plane and detect the reflected signal reflected from the detecting signal. It is determined whether the first gesture matches a first specific gesture. When the first gesture matches the first specific gesture, the touch device is operated in a touch-on mode. Touch information is provided when the touch device is operated in the touch-on mode but not provided when the touch device is operated in the touch-lock mode. |
| US09727231B2 |
System and method for providing absolute coordinate and zone mapping between a touchpad and a display screen
A method and system for providing absolute coordinate mapping using zone mapping input in a vehicle includes determining a touch input received on a touchpad located in the vehicle, presenting an absolute mapped position of the touch input on a display screen located in the vehicle, presenting one or more user interface objects on the display screen, and providing a plurality of display input zones corresponding to one or more user interface objects presented on the display screen. The method and system further include determining a user input to one of the one or more user interface objects presented on the display screen based on the absolute mapped position of the touch input on at least one of the one or more user interface objects presented on the display screen, and the plurality of display input zones on the display screen. |
| US09727226B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for providing an enhanced user interface
Methods and apparatuses are provided for providing an enhanced user interface. A method may include causing display of a semi-transparent user interface layer concurrent with a second user interface layer. At least a portion of the semi-transparent user interface layer and at least a portion of the second user interface layer may overlap. The method may further include detecting a physical stimulus. The method may additionally include determining an effect of the physical stimulus on display of content in the semi-transparent user interface layer. The method may also include applying the determined effect by modifying display of content in the semi-transparent user interface layer in response to detection of the physical stimulus. Corresponding apparatuses are also provided. |
| US09727222B2 |
Device having menu display function
A device includes a CPU and a touch-panel display. In a first display mode, when control functions that belong to a first level are assigned to menu switches of a plurality of menus, one of the menus is displayed. In a second display mode, all the menus are displayed. A change switch is provided in a menu display selection area, and includes a plural-row mark to indicate that a plurality of menus exist at the first level. The CPU switches between the modes to display one or all menus in the menu display selection area. When a plurality of menus exist at the first level, the plural-row mark is displayed; otherwise, the plural-row mark is erased. When the menus are displayed in the second display mode, the plural-row mark is lit. When the menu is displayed in the first display mode, the plural-row mark is unlit. |
| US09727215B2 |
Method for performing multimedia management utilizing tags, and associated apparatus and associated computer program product
A method and apparatus for performing multimedia management utilizing tags and an associated computer program product are provided, where the method is applied to an electronic device. The method includes the steps of: providing a user interface to allow a user to add at least one tag corresponding to at least one timestamp of a multimedia file onto a progress bar of the user interface; and when it is detected that a specific tag added onto the progress bar of the user interface is selected for tag-based playback, playing the multimedia file, starting from a specific timestamp indicated by tag information of the specific tag. |
| US09727214B2 |
Electronic apparatus and object processing method thereof
An electronic apparatus and an object processing method are provided. An interface management module of the apparatus generates a user operation interface on the display screen. The interface has a first operating area and a second operating area, which have their respective sizes associated with each other in the interface. A first functional module displays a first object in the first operating area. A second functional module displays a second object in the second operating area. A first application program unit performs a corresponding process operation on the first object. An acquisition unit acquires a first operation by a user on the first operating area. A control unit controls the first application program unit to be in a ready state, when the first operation satisfies a predetermined condition. |
| US09727212B2 |
Full screen content viewing interface entry
Methods for entering a full screen content viewing interface of an application are provided. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a request to provide content for display within a viewing region of an application and receiving a single touch input within the viewing region. The method also includes determining whether at least a portion of the content within the viewing region is obscured by a user interface element. When at least a portion of the content within the viewing region is obscured by the user interface element, the method includes removing the user interface element from the application. Systems and machine-readable media are also provided. |
| US09727202B2 |
Vessel display device and vessel information display method
A vessel display device displays information on a vessel. The vessel display device includes an information acquirer that acquires the same type of information on a plurality of propulsion machines included in the vessel, a display information generator that generates, based on the information acquired by the information acquirer, display information which displays information on the plurality of propulsion machines on a single scale, and a display that displays the display information generated by the display information generator. The display information generator may generate display information which displays the same type of information on the plurality of propulsion machines in a different format on a single scale. The display information generator may generate display information which sequentially displays the same type of information on the plurality of propulsion machines on a single scale. |
| US09727198B2 |
Sensing apparatus of electromagnetic induction input type and control method thereof
Methods and apparatus are provided for determining an input position of a touch object. An input signal is received from the touch object, and one or more sensing signals are output. A resistance of each of one or more sub-loops is measured, and a resistance information lookup table is generated with each resistance value of a corresponding sub-loop of the one or more sub-loops. The one or more sensing signals are corrected based on the resistance information lookup table. The input position of the touch object is determined based on the corrected one or more sensing signals. |
| US09727193B2 |
Integrated touch screens
Integrated touch screens are provided including drive lines formed of grouped-together circuit elements of a thin film transistor layer and sense lines formed between a color filter layer and a material layer that modifies or generates light. The common electrodes (Vcom) in the TFT layer can be grouped together during a touch sensing operation to form drive lines. Sense lines can be formed on an underside of a color filter glass, and a liquid crystal region can be disposed between the color filter glass and the TFT layer. Placing the sense lines on the underside of the color filter glass, i.e., within the display pixel cell, can provide a benefit of allowing the color filter glass to be thinned after the pixel cells have been assembled, for example. |
| US09727190B2 |
Electronic apparatus and information processing system
A receiving device (1a) includes a position/angle determining section (505) for determining a position of a transmitting device (1b) in relation to the receiving device (1a) by judging which of a plurality of sense lines (SL) provided in a touch panel (14) of the receiving device has received at least one of pulse signals transmitted from a touch panel (14) included in the transmitting device (1b). |
| US09727188B2 |
Touch display panel and electronic equipment
A touch display panel, including a touch display unit and drive circuit units disposed at the periphery of the touch display unit. The touch display unit includes touch drive electrodes, the drive circuit unit includes a first drive circuit unit and a second drive circuit unit which are electrically connected with two ends of each of the touch drive electrodes, respectively, and the first drive circuit unit is electrically connected with the second drive circuit unit through a first connecting line. |
| US09727179B2 |
Touch apparatus and touch sensing method thereof
A touch sensing method of a touch panel may include: defining at least one of at least one sensing loop as at least one reference sensing loop, wherein the sensing loop is disposed in the touch panel for sensing a touch event; providing a driving signal to the reference sensing loop in order to read at least one reference signal from the reference loop during an electrical detection period; providing the driving signal to the sensing loop in order to read at least one sensing signal from the sensing loop during a touch sensing period; and detecting a touch position of the touch event according to the reference signal and the sensing signal. Several touch apparatuses are also provided. |
| US09727175B2 |
System and method for detecting locations of touches on a projected capacitive touch sensor
A projected capacitive touch sensor includes a substrate and sets of electrodes coupled to corresponding areas of the substrate. The areas are non-overlapping with respect to each other. The sets of electrodes include a horizontal sensing electrode that extends along a height of a first column within the area and vertical sensing electrodes that extend partially along the height of at least one column within the area. The at least one column includes at least two vertical sensing electrodes that are physically separate with respect to each other and electrically connected to each other. |
| US09727172B2 |
Method for defining effective pixels in image sensing array
A method for defining effective pixels in an image sensing array of a light-shading optical touch system is proposed. First, light-shading objects are disposed at three end points of a touch panel, and a shaded image is generated by an image sensing array. Light-shading object pixels corresponding to the light-shading objects are obtained from the shaded image thereafter. Next, the light-shading objects are removed from the touch panel, and a non-shaded image is generated by the image sensing array. Three pixel columns corresponding to the end points are obtained from the non-shaded image, and a pixel with maximum intensity is obtained from each of the three pixel columns. Interpolated pixels between the three brightest pixels are obtained through interpolation from the non-shaded image. Image sensing pixels corresponding to the three brightest pixels and the interpolated pixels in the image sensing array are defined as effective pixels. |
| US09727169B2 |
Embedded display screen having touch detection function, terminal device, and touch detection method
An embedded display screen and a terminal device having touch detection function, and a touch detection method are disclosed. The touch screen includes an upper substrate, a lower substrate, a liquid crystal display layer, and a common electrode. The common electrode is divided into multiple sub-electrodes arranged as a matrix to form a touch detection electrode. The driving selector is correspondingly connected with the multiple sub-electrodes one by one through multiple lead wires. The touch controller is disposed outside the upper substrate and the lower substrate, and is connected with the driving selector through selection signal line and scanning signal line. A total number of the selection signal line and the scanning signal line is less than a total number of the lead wires. The touch controller sends a selection signal to the driving selector through the selection signal line. Accordingly, the number of the lead wires is reduced. |
| US09727167B2 |
Display having vertical gate line extensions and touch sensor
A display may have an array of pixels arranged in rows and columns. Each pixel may have a transistor for controlling the amount of output light associated with that pixel. The transistors may be thin-film transistors having active areas, first and second source-drain terminals, and gates. Gate lines may be used to distribute gate control signals to the gates of the transistors in each row. Data lines that run perpendicular to the gate lines may be used to distribute image data along columns of pixels. The gate lines may be connected to gate line extensions that run parallel to the data lines. The data lines may each overlap a respective one of the gate line extensions. Vias may be used to connect the gate line extensions to the gate lines. The gate line extensions may all have the same length. |
| US09727166B2 |
Proximity-dependent adjustable-signal touch panel system
A touch panel controller is equipped with a control unit that outputs a decimation signal to a drive line driving circuit when touch response magnitude data is a designated value or greater, or in other words, when the distance between a touch panel and a stylus pen is closer than a designated value. Thus, it is possible to realize a touch panel system able to moderate the amount of power consumed when synchronizing drive timings between the pen and the touch panel controller that drives the touch panel, and thereby operate with low power consumption. |
| US09727158B2 |
Touch sensing type liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
A touch sensing type liquid crystal display device includes an array substrate includes a first substrate, a common electrode, a pixel electrode, and a touch sensing unit; a color filter substrate including a second substrate and facing the array substrate; an anti-static layer on an outer side of the second substrate and including an organic material and a carbon nano-tube; and a liquid crystal layer between the first substrate and an inner side of the second substrate. |
| US09727156B2 |
Method for recognizing biometrics information and electronic device thereof
An apparatus and a method for recognizing bio-data in an electronic device are provided. The method includes detecting an input via a sensor module, outputting guide information for bio-data recognition corresponding to the detected input, and detecting bio-data by using a bio-data detecting module. |
| US09727154B2 |
Electronic device with a touch sensor and method for operating the same
An electronic device has a combination touch sensor (such as a fingerprint reader) and mechanical switch (actuated, for example, by a button press). The electronic device carries out various functions according to whether the touch sensor is being touched, the mechanical switch is being actuated, the electronic device is face up or face down, the state of the electronic device (awake or in sleep mode), and the function that the electronic device is currently carrying out. |
| US09727153B2 |
Terminal apparatus, display control method and recording medium
First, when operation input by a user is detected, an operation signal in accordance with contents of the operation is output. Next, a determination is made of whether the operation by the user is a short press operation or a long press operation on the basis of time in which the operation signal is output. Next, if determined that the user has performed the short press operation, a preview screen indicating contents of a predetermined event associated with the long press operation in advance is displayed on a screen of a display section as a preview. |
| US09727151B2 |
Avoiding accidental cursor movement when contacting a surface of a trackpad
In one general aspect, a method can include identifying a contact on a surface of a trackpad of a computing device, calculating a value of a first speed of movement of the contact along the surface of the trackpad, calculating a value of a total distance moved by the contact along the surface of the trackpad, and blocking movement of a cursor on a display device based on determining that the value of the first speed of movement of the contact along the surface of the trackpad is less than a fast threshold speed, and based on determining that the value of the total distance moved by the contact along the surface of the trackpad is less than a threshold distance value. |
| US09727140B2 |
Tactile force sense presentation device, information terminal, tactile force sense presentation method, and computer-readable recording medium
In order to present a tactile force sense to a user who performs an input operation on a screen of a display panel (20), a tactile force sense presentation device (10) includes a tactile force sense presentation member (11) that transmits a tactile force sense to the user, an actuator (12) that moves the tactile force sense presentation member (11), a vibration generation unit (13) that generates a vibration on the tactile force sense presentation member (11), and a control unit (14). If content on the screen is changed in accordance with the input operation of the user on the screen, the control unit (14) gives the actuator (12) an instruction to move the tactile force sense presentation member (11) such that the tactile force sense corresponding to the change of the content is presented, and gives the vibration generation unit (13) an instruction to generate a vibration such that a vibration is generated on the tactile force sense presentation member (11) simultaneously with start of the movement of the tactile force sense presentation member (11), or before start of the movement. |
| US09727138B2 |
Nanotechnology clothing for human-computer interaction
The present invention discloses nanotechnology clothing in the form of a glove, shirt, pants or suit that can be worn to track the motion of different parts of a user's body. This tracking is utilized to provide the computer system with an immediate input representing an interaction with a computer application or a 3D simulation of the user's body motion. The present invention is used with computers, mobile phones, and head-mounted computer displays serving a variety of gaming, entertainment, sports and medical applications. |
| US09727137B2 |
User view point related image processing apparatus and method thereof
A user viewpoint related image processing apparatus includes: a sensor unit configured to sense a viewpoint change of a user and generate motion data, a communication interface unit configured to receive an image package including image data from a media server, a scene constructing unit configured to, using the image package, place a virtual camera in a virtual space and construct a scene for the image data, and a virtual camera pose changing unit configured to, using the motion data, change a pose of the placed virtual camera to respond to the viewpoint change of the user. |
| US09727136B2 |
Gaze detection calibration
Examples relating calibrating an estimated gaze location are disclosed. One example method comprises monitoring the estimated gaze location of a viewer using gaze tracking data from a gaze tracking system. Image data for display via a display device is received and, without using input from the viewer, at least one target visual that may attract a gaze of the viewer and a target location of the target visual are identified within the image data. The estimated gaze location of the viewer is compared with the target location of the target visual. An offset vector is calculated based on the estimated gaze location and the target location. The gaze tracking system is calibrated using the offset vector. |
| US09727131B2 |
User input method for use in portable device using virtual input area
A portable device and user input method of the portable device using a virtual input area is provided. The portable device may include a sensor configured to sense a user input to an input area, the input area being at least a portion of an area adjacent to the portable device, a determiner configured to determine a target object corresponding to the user input among at least one input object displayed on the portable device, based on an arrangement of the at least one input object, and a controller configured to generate a control command to control the target object. |
| US09727126B2 |
Method for manufacturing touch panel
A method for manufacturing a touch panel that includes applying a UV (ultraviolet) curing resin on a surface of a decorative film, forming a peripheral curing area by curing a peripheral area of the decorative film by radiating a UV light thereto, placing a touch panel body on the UV curing resin after the forming of the peripheral curing area, and forming an inner curing area by curing the UV curing resin by radiating the UV light thereto and adhering the decorative film and the touch panel body to each other at the inner curing area. |
| US09727124B2 |
Power saving application update in a portable electronic device
A power savings mode for data updates is provided. The power savings mode prevents data updates to occur while a screen of a portable electronic device is turned off and the device is in a sleep state. The power savings mode waits until the screen is turned on and the portable electronic device is in a wake state before allowing applications and widgets to update data from network repositories. By preventing applications and widgets from updating data while the portable electronic device is in a sleep state, the power savings mode conserves battery life and network bandwidth by limiting possibly unnecessary data transmissions. |
| US09727122B2 |
Staged power distribution control
Various embodiments are directed to restrictions in portable computing device electric power to accommodate reductions in the voltage level of a power source. An apparatus comprises a controller caused to receive configuration data from a main processor circuit specifying a voltage level threshold and selected action to take to reduce electric power to a first component in response to the voltage level falling below the first voltage level threshold, recurringly monitor the voltage level; based on the voltage level falling below the first voltage level threshold, take the first selected action and transmit a signal to the main processor circuit indicating that the voltage level has fallen below the first voltage level threshold and that the first selected action has been taken; transmit the voltage level to the main processor circuit; receive a signal from the main processor circuit to undo the first selected action; and so undo. |
| US09727114B2 |
HW-controlled power domains with automatic power-on request
Systems and methods related to hardware controlled power domains in a hardware system (e.g., an integrated circuit) are disclosed. In one embodiment, fully automatic power on and power off of the power domains in the hardware system is provided without software involvement. In this manner, power up and power down times for the power domains are substantially reduced or minimized, which in turn enables shorter active times for the power domains and thus reduced power consumption (e.g., reduced leakage when hardware in the power domains is idle). |
| US09727113B2 |
Low power computational imaging
The present application discloses a computing device that can provide a low-power, highly capable computing platform for computational imaging. The computing device can include one or more processing units, for example one or more vector processors and one or more hardware accelerators, an intelligent memory fabric, a peripheral device, and a power management module. The computing device can communicate with external devices, such as one or more image sensors, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or any other suitable sensor devices. |
| US09727111B2 |
Control device for current switching and electronic device
A control device for current switching includes: a universal serial bus on-the-go (USB OTG) interface for connecting to a first device; a universal serial bus (USB) interface for connecting to a second device; a booster current-limiting circuit connected between the USB OTG interface and the USB interface, where the booster current-limiting circuit, the USB OTG interface, and the USB interface form a line for the device to supply power to a device; and a measuring and controlling unit connected to the booster current-limiting circuit, where the measuring and controlling unit is configured to change, after a current switching request is received, a resistance value of a current-limiting circuit in the booster current-limiting circuit, so that the first device supplies a corresponding current to the second device. The control device for current switching and the electronic device can improve universality of the control device for current switching. |
| US09727107B2 |
Slave device requesting its master device not to cancel its power saving mode
A controlled apparatus periodically transmits state information indicating the state of the apparatus, and when the state has been changed, transmits state information indicating the state after the change. Upon receiving state information from the controlled apparatus, a control apparatus, when not requesting a change of state in the controlled apparatus, returns the state information to the controlled apparatus, and when requesting a change of the state in the controlled apparatus, changes state parameters in the state information that correspond to the state to be changed to required values and transmits the state information after the change to the controlled apparatus as a control command. The controlled apparatus, upon receiving the control command from the control apparatus, changes to a state in accordance with the state parameters that follow the change and transmits the state information indicating the state after the change to the control apparatus. |
| US09727106B2 |
Semiconductor device having active mode and standby mode
In an active mode, a VDD line receives an internal power supply voltage from an external regulator. A VDD_RAM line receives an internal power supply voltage from an internal regulator. A PMOS switch includes a first PMOS transistor having a source and an N-type well connected to the VDD line, and a second PMOS transistor having a source and an N-type well connected to the VDD_RAM line and a drain connected to a drain of the first PMOS transistor. The first PMOS transistor is controlled based on a control command from a system control circuit and a voltage of the VDD_RAM line. The second PMOS transistor is controlled based on the control command and a voltage of the VDD line. |
| US09727103B2 |
Computer case
A computer case includes a case body, a carrying structure and a cooler. The case body is with an opening formed thereon. The carrying structure is detachably connected to the case body from the outside and corresponds to the position of the opening. The cooler is fixed to the carrying structure. This way, computer peripherals can be installed without disassembling the case body. |
| US09727099B1 |
Hard disk drive mounting apparatus
An HDD mounting apparatus for installing HDDs into a server device is disclosed. The mounting apparatus includes frame dimensioned to receive an HDD and fit within a drive bay with a connector positioned inside for connecting to the HDD. A top cover is secured to one of the long sides of the frame and provides a slot within which a sliding mechanism travels linearly. The sliding mechanism has an engagement mechanism to engage with an edge of the drive bay. A lever is rotatably connected to the top cover by a first hinge. A connector arm is further connected to the lever at one end, and to the sliding mechanism at a second end. When the lever is rotated in one direction, the connector arm generates a force on the sliding mechanism in the first direction that is transferred to a force on the frame in a second opposite direction. |
| US09727097B2 |
Length-adjustable storage device
A storage device includes a base board and a memory chip package. The base board includes, on a first edge, a connector that is connectable to a host device and through which the storage device communicates with the host device, on a second edge that is opposite to the first edge, a first engaging portion by which the base board is fixable to the host device, and in an intermediate portion that is located between the first edge and the second edge, a second engaging portion by which the base board is fixable to the host device when an end portion of the base board between the second edge and the intermediate portion is removed. The memory chip package is disposed on a surface of the base board and between the first edge and the intermediate portion. |
| US09727094B1 |
Window button assembly
A window button assembly is connected to an enclosure of an electronic device. The window button assembly can include a button plank and a switch component positioned underneath the button plank such that sufficient deflection of the button plank activates the switch component. A component may be included in the window button assembly. The component can be in communication with the switch component, and activation of the switch component can initiate an action by the component. |
| US09727091B2 |
Electronic device
This application discloses an electronic device. The electronic device comprises a first body including an A surface and a B surface that are opposite to each other; a second body including a C surface and a D surface that are opposite to each other; and a connecting piece by means of which the first and the second bodies are connected and the first body is rotatable relative to the second body. A further rotation of the first body around the connecting piece is prevented by the second body when the first body is rotated relative to the second body, by means of the connecting piece, such that the electronic device is at a first posture that is a relative positional posture where value of an angle between the A surface and the D surface is a first angle value within the range of greater than 0° but less than or equal to 90°. |
| US09727087B2 |
Facilitating dynamic detection and intelligent use of segmentation on flexible display screens
A mechanism is described for facilitating dynamic detection and intelligent use of segmentation on flexible display screens according to one embodiment. A method of embodiments, as described herein, includes detecting, via one or more touch sensors, alterations in current in and around one or more areas of a flexible display screen, where the alterations represent pressure being applied to cause at least one of bending, rolling, and curving of the flexible display screen at the one or more areas. The method may further include dividing the flexible display screen into a plurality of zones corresponding to the one or more areas, where the marking/dividing logic is further to mark a plurality of portions of the plurality of zones to serve as a plurality of segments. The method may further include facilitating displaying of contents via the plurality of segments of the flexible display screen. |
| US09727085B2 |
Tablet computer system
A system for use with a tablet computer includes a host electronic board configured to connect the tablet computer to a plurality of peripheral devices. An enclosure is configured to enclose the host electronic board and the tablet computer in an interior space of the enclosure. The enclosure includes a first part and a second part, which are moveable relative to one another between an open position for adding and removing the tablet computer from the enclosure and a closed position. The enclosure is configured so the interior space of the enclosure is substantially inaccessible from outside the enclosure in the closed position. The system includes a lock on the enclosure. The lock is configured to selectively convert from an unlocked configuration in which the first and second parts of the enclosure can be moved to the open position and a locked configuration in which the first and second parts of the enclosure cannot be non-destructively moved from the closed position to the open position. |
| US09727083B2 |
Quick release dock system and method
A docking station to secure and charge a portable computer such as a hand held terminal to allow the operator to easily and quickly remove the portable computer. When the docking station is energized, an electromagnetic contact is capable of magnetically retaining the portable computer. Upon activation of a release on either the portable computer or the docking station, the electromagnetic contact is de-energized and the portable computer is detached. In an exemplary embodiment, the docking station is mounted on a vehicle and the electromagnetic contact receives power from the battery of the vehicle when the vehicle is in motion. When the vehicle is halted and turned off, the electromagnetic contact may be de-energized but the portable computer may still be held in place by a mechanical retention port. |
| US09727081B2 |
Tablet computer overlay membrane
A tablet computer device comprises a overlay membrane detachably couplable to the tablet computer device to protect a display element of the tablet computer device, the overlay membrane having an integrated keyboard. |
| US09727079B2 |
Chassis input/output (I/O) module for use in front region of mass storage chassis assembly
A chassis input/output (I/O) module adapted for use in a front region of a mass storage chassis assembly is provided. The chassis I/O module in one example includes an I/O module shell, a main I/O connector externally available on the I/O module shell, a plurality of sub-assembly connectors externally available on the I/O module shell, one or more power supply modules, and an interface module electrically coupled to the main I/O connector, the plurality of sub-assembly connectors, and the one or more power supply modules, with the interface module configured to regulate operations of one or more mass storage sub-assemblies installed in the mass storage chassis assembly, regulate provision of electrical power from the one or more power supply modules to the one or more mass storage sub-assemblies, and facilitate exchange of electrical signals between the one or more mass storage sub-assemblies and the main I/O connector. |
| US09727074B1 |
Bandgap reference circuit and method therefor
A bandgap reference circuit includes a ΔVbe/R circuit portion and an amplification circuit portion. The ΔVbe/R circuit portion has a first and second current path from first and second terminals through first and second bipolar transistors, respectively. The first and second bipolar transistors have different emitter areas and the second path has a resistor. The amplification circuit portion provides a current to each of the first and second terminals of the ΔVbe/R circuit portion and changes the current in response to a voltage difference between the first and second terminals of the ΔVbe/R circuit portion. The ΔVbe/R circuit portion also has first and second base resistors connected to bases of the first and second bipolar transistors, respectively. |
| US09727071B2 |
Facilitating revenue generation from wholesale electricity markets based on a self-tuning energy asset model
The apparatus, systems and methods herein facilitate generation of energy-related revenue for an energy customer of an electricity supplier. The apparatuses and methods herein can be used to generate suggested operating schedules for the energy assets that including a controllable energy asset, using an objective function. The objective function is determined based on a dynamic simulation model of the energy profile of the energy assets. The dynamic simulation model is adaptive to physical changes in the energy assets based on a parametric estimation using at least one model parameter. The model parameter is at least one of an operation characteristic of the controllable energy asset, a thermodynamic property of the energy assets, and a projected environmental condition. Energy-related revenue available to the energy customer is based at least in part on a wholesale electricity market or on a regulation market. |
| US09727062B2 |
Shape memory alloy thermostat for subsea equipment
A system, in certain embodiments, includes an SMA thermostat. The SMA thermostat includes a body, a sleeve, a biasing spring and an SMA spring. Upon actuation of the SMA spring at a phase transition temperature, the sleeve is configured to shift and expose flow ports formed in the body. |
| US09727059B2 |
Independent speed and attitude control for a rotary wing aircraft
One aspect is a flight control system for independent speed and attitude control of a rotary wing aircraft that includes a main rotor system and a translational thrust system. The flight control system includes a flight control computer configured to interface with the main rotor system and the translational thrust system. The flight control computer includes processing circuitry configured to execute control logic. A pitch attitude reference generator provides a pitch attitude reference to a main rotor controller to command the main rotor system based on pilot input. A longitudinal reference generator produces a longitudinal reference as a longitudinal position or longitudinal velocity based on pilot input. An attitude-to-propulsor crossfeed converts the pitch attitude reference into a propulsor trim adjustment. A propeller pitch controller combines the longitudinal reference and the propulsor trim adjustment into a propeller command, and provides the propeller command to the translational thrust system. |
| US09727058B2 |
System for determining the position of a vehicle, vehicle therewith, and method therefor
A system for determining the position of a vehicle includes a plurality of sensors for measuring the magnetic field strength of a magnet, means and is configured for determining the position of the magnet with respect to a plurality of sensors wherein the plurality of sensors are arranged in a two-dimensions array. |
| US09727056B2 |
Automated vehicle control with time to take-over compensation
A system for changing a control-mode of an automated vehicle from automated-control to manual-control includes an operator-detection device and a controller. The operator-detection device is operable to detect a readiness-state of an operator of a vehicle while a control-mode of the vehicle is automated-control. The controller is configured to forecast a future-time when the control-mode of the vehicle should change from automated-control to manual-control and determine a take-over-interval for an operator to assume manual-control of the vehicle once notified. The take-over-interval is determined based on the readiness-state. The controller is also configured to notify the operator that the control-mode of the vehicle should change from automated-control to manual-control no later than the take-over-interval prior to the future-time. |
| US09727055B2 |
System and method for video processing and presentation
Systems and methods for video processing and display are provided. In one aspect, a workstation is configured to determine a position of a remotely controlled vehicle when an image of the surroundings of the vehicle was captured, and to transform the image into a transformed image based on an estimated real-time position of the vehicle. In another aspect, a workstation is configured to identify an image captured prior to the time a remotely controlled vehicle changed its configuration. The workstation estimates a real-time position of the vehicle, and transforms the identified image into a transformed image based on the estimated real-time position of the vehicle, such that the transformed image represents at least a portion of a view of the surroundings of the vehicle at the estimated real-time position after the vehicle changed its configuration. |
| US09727054B2 |
Impedance measurement behind subsea transformer
To enable any measurement through the galvanic isolation of a subsea transformer, a topside system is used apply an AC voltage thereby generating a flux is the transformer core. The test is preferably done prior to any rotation in a subsea motor installed “behind” the transformer. Therefore, the voltage and frequency combination is be selected such that the torque produced is insufficient to rotate the motor. Impedance amplitude and phase are measured and then comparing the results of modeled fault scenarios. Faults such as, open circuits, short circuits, and loss of phase(s) can be detected prior to startup. |
| US09727052B2 |
In-situ spectroscopy for monitoring fabrication of integrated computational elements
Technologies are described for monitoring characteristics of layers of integrated computational elements (ICEs) during fabrication using an in-situ spectrometer operated in step-scan mode in combination with lock-in or time-gated detection. As part of the step-scan mode, a wavelength selecting element of the spectrometer is discretely scanned to provide spectrally different instances of probe-light, such that each of the spectrally different instances of the probe-light is provided for a finite time interval. Additionally, an instance of the probe-light interacted during the finite time interval with the ICE layers includes a modulation that is being detected by the lock-in or time-gated detection over the finite time interval. |
| US09727048B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for monitoring plants
The present invention relates to an apparatus, system and method for monitoring plant. A sensor means can be adapted for receiving plant growth information of the plant being received inside a container. An indicating means can be adapted for indicating information of the plant growth information. A wireless communication means can be adapted for transmitting the plant growth information to an external device. A control means can select a working mode of the indicating means and the wireless communication means. Through the cooperative effect of the sensor means, the storage means, the indicating means and the wireless communication means, operators do not have to take along with instruments to perform measurement reading of the on-site plant growth information at a regular time, thereby saving labor cost and time cost of monitoring the plant growth information and improving efficiency of plant monitoring. |
| US09727045B2 |
Method and system for a meta-recipe control software architecture
A method and system for computerized coordination of multiple operations to be performed by components of machines are provided. The computer system includes a memory device for storing data and a computer-controlled machine that includes a processor in communication with the memory device wherein the processor is programmed to read a recipe file from the memory device, the recipe file including operating parameter values for controlling the operation of the machine, extract a name of a meta-recipe file from the recipe file, the meta-recipe file including a first portion including parameter properties of operating parameter values used by the meta-recipe file, receive values for the meta-recipe having the parameter properties specified in the first portion, and operate the machine using code from a second portion of the meta-recipe and the received values. |
| US09727044B2 |
Method and configuration environment for supporting the configuration of an interface between simulation hardware and an external device
A method for supporting a configuration of an interface is provided, wherein the configuration environment has an overview region that has several subregions. At least one item of information concerning a part of the configuration is displayed in each subregion. For each subregion, an item of information concerning the part of the configuration associated with the subregion is displayed. In the case of a warning and/or error message, a configuration option is displayed so as to be selectable, via which the warning/error message is resolved. The selection of the displayed configuration option causes a functionality to be started via which the displayed configuration option is made possible. In the case of a change in the status of a subregion, the display of the status and/or warning and/or error message and a configuration option derived therefrom in one subregion or several subregions is automatically updated and adapted to the changed status. |
| US09727041B2 |
Air-conditioning system and central management apparatus
An air-conditioning system includes an air-conditioning apparatus, a user information input terminal, and a central management apparatus. The user information input terminal detects entrance of a user into a room and transmits an entrance-interlocking signal including user identification information for identifying the user to the central management apparatus. Upon receipt of the entrance-interlocking signal, the central management apparatus determines a control objective of the air-conditioning apparatus according to priority of user attribute of one or more users in the room and an energy saving level currently set, and cause the air-conditioning apparatus to perform an interlocking control in accordance with the determined control objective. |
| US09727033B2 |
Method for producing PLC and HMI tag database and system
A method and system for producing a plc tag database is provided. The method is for use with a set of fragment types, a set of tag values for each fragment type and a collection of PLC programming logic. The collection contains a PLC programming code for each of a plurality of classes of equipment. A PLC tag database is produced for a project. The classes of equipment required for the project are selected together with a quantity required for each class of equipment selected. A PLC logic associated with the PLC programming code for said each class, and tags defined by the PLC logic, are replicated a number of times equal to the quantity of each class selected. A specific PLC card type, rack and slot is assigned to selected tags in accordance with the requirements of the project. |
| US09727030B2 |
Electronic timepiece and control method of an electronic timepiece
An electronic timepiece comprises a receiver configured to receive satellite signals containing time information from positioning information satellites; an interface member; a timekeeping reception controller configured to execute a timekeeping reception process in response to a timekeeping reception operation of the interface member; and a positioning reception controller configured to execute a positioning reception process in response to a positioning reception operation of the interface member. The timekeeping reception controller starts the timekeeping reception process if the interface member is operated continuously for a first set time, and continues the timekeeping reception process if operation of the interface member is released before a second set time passes, the second set time being longer than the first set time, and operation switches from the timekeeping reception process to the positioning reception process if the interface member is operated for the second set time. |
| US09727028B2 |
Dynamically reconfiguring time zones in real-time using plural time zone libraries
A method for dynamically reconfiguring time zones in real-time using plural time zone (TZ) libraries is provided. The method provides integrating a first time zone information data (TZID) version and a second TZID version into a TZ library in an operating system. A first configuration comprising the TZ library and the first TZID version is selected. Responsive to adjusting the first configuration to a second configuration comprising the TZ library and the second TZID version, the second configuration is used automatically without restarting the operating system and without restarting an application. |
| US09727024B2 |
Phase modulation method and phase modulating device
A phase distribution is calculated such that modulated light has a predetermined intensity distribution on a target plane and displayed on a phase modulation plane, readout light enters the phase modulation plane so as to generate the modulated light. When calculating the phase distribution, a region on the phase modulation plane is divided into N regions A1 . . . AN, with sizes set such that integration values of an intensity distribution in the regions are equal to each other. Further, a region on the target plane is divided into N regions B1 . . . BN, with sizes set such that integration values of an intensity distribution in the regions are equal to each other. The phase distribution is calculated by obtaining an optical path length from the region An to the region Bn, and determining the phase of the region An based on the optical path length. |
| US09727023B2 |
Apparatus and method for generating hologram pattern
A method and apparatus for generating a hologram pattern using depth quantization may generate a hologram pattern corresponding to a three-dimensional (3D) object in a hologram plane using color image information of the 3D object and a point of the 3D object included in a quantized depth layer. |
| US09727022B2 |
Image forming apparatus having air cooling system
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body, an image forming device to form an image on a recording medium, a casing to accommodate the image forming device, a sheet discharging port through which the recording medium having the image is discharged from the casing, a sheet stacker to stack the recording medium output through the sheet discharging port and opening on one side of the apparatus body and surrounded by outer walls including an outer wall having the sheet discharging port, an air guide opening disposed within a sheet passing range in a width direction of the recording medium in a sheet conveying path through which the recording medium having the image passes from the image forming device to the sheet discharging port, and an air suction fan to discharge air passing through the air guide opening to an outside of the casing. |
| US09727019B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming system
An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a control unit 111 which performs white paper cleaning by making remaining papers pass through a fixing device in automatic purge of conveying and discharging the remaining papers after an originating paper having caused a jam is removed when the jam has occurred in a paper conveyance path, and display units 115 and 111 which display the number of papers, which is obtained by subtracting the number of the papers having passed through the fixing device by the control unit for the white paper cleaning in the automatic purge from the set number of papers set in advance as the number of papers required to pass through the fixing device in the white paper cleaning, as the number of papers set for white paper cleaning after the automatic purge. |
| US09727017B2 |
Medium transportation apparatus, image forming apparatus, and method of assembling medium transportation apparatus
A medium transportation apparatus includes a transportation portion for transporting a medium; a first structure unit for forming a first transportation path to guide and transport the medium in a first direction from an upstream side in a medium transportation direction toward a downstream side in the medium transportation direction; and a second structure unit for forming an accommodation space to accommodate a part of the first structure unit. The first structure unit includes a first region disposed outside the accommodation space on the downstream side in the medium transportation direction and a second region disposed inside the accommodation space on the upstream side in the medium transportation direction. |
| US09727007B2 |
Rotary device and image forming apparatus
A rotary device includes a rotary shaft, a rotary body that is supported by the rotary shaft, and rotates about the rotary shaft, and at least one plate-like member having a central point that serves as a center of rotation when the plate-like member rotates, the plate-like member having an outer peripheral portion, the plate-like member including at least one cutout formed by cutting out the outer peripheral portion of the plate-like member at positions that are symmetric with respect to a straight line passing through the central point, the plate-like member being secured to the rotary shaft to rotate together with the rotary body as the rotary shaft rotates. |
| US09727005B2 |
Semiconductive roller
A semiconductive roller is provided, which has a toner transport amount and a toner charge amount properly controlled, particularly, when being used as a developing roller, and is substantially free from imaging failure such as fogging and background smudging. The semiconductive roller is formed from a semiconductive rubber composition, and has an outer peripheral surface having a surface roughness defined by a roughness profile such that an arithmetic average roughness is not greater than 0.7 μm and a difference Rδc between vertical section levels at two different load length percentages (at a load length percentage Rmr1 of 25% and a load length percentage Rmr2 of 75%) is not greater than 1.2 μm. |
| US09726990B2 |
Lithography mask repair methods
Lithography mask repair methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of repairing a lithography mask includes providing a lithography mask, exposing a back side of the lithography mask to vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) energy, and cleaning the lithography mask. |
| US09726983B2 |
Method to define multiple layer patterns with a single exposure by charged particle beam lithography
The present disclosure provides a method that includes forming a first patternable material layer on a substrate; forming a second patternable material layer over the first patternable material layer; and performing a charged particle beam lithography exposure process to the first patternable material layer and the second patternable material layer, thereby forming a first latent feature in the first patternable material layer. |
| US09726978B2 |
Cleaning composition, cleaning process, and process for producing semiconductor device
A cleaning composition for removing plasma etching residue and/or ashing residue formed above a semiconductor substrate is provided that includes (component a) water, (component b) a hydroxylamine and/or a salt thereof, (component c) a basic organic compound, and (component d) an organic acid and has a pH of 7 to 9. There are also provided a cleaning process and a process for producing semiconductor device employing the cleaning composition. |
| US09726974B2 |
Resin, photoresist composition, and method for producing photoresist pattern
A resin comprising: a structural unit represented by formula (I), and a structural unit having an acid-labile group. |
| US09726966B2 |
Light source device and projector using the same
A light source device including: a light source section which generates any one of blue light, red light, and green light; a phosphor which generates a fluorescence including the two colors other than the color of the light emitted from the light source section; a color-changing section which changes one of the two colors of the fluorescence emitted from the phosphor to another color regularly and irradiates it to the image-forming element; and a light path-switching section which switches a light path in which a fluorescence excited by the color light emitted from the light source section passes towards the color-changing section and a light path in which the color light emitted from the light source section passes towards the image-forming element regularly. |
| US09726964B2 |
Projector
A projector includes an image formation apparatus that forms an image, a lens barrel that accommodates a projection lens that projects the formed image, and a light blocking portion that is configured as a member separate from the lens barrel, is located in a position between the image formation apparatus and the lens barrel, and blocks light to be incident on the lens barrel. The configuration of the projector allows blockage of light incident on the lens barrel and hence prevention of distortion of the lens barrel. |
| US09726963B1 |
Quick connection structure
A quick connection structure includes a base body, a locking sleeve slidably sleeved on the outside of the base body, a connection platform with a lower part sleeved in a connection hole of the base body, and a locking spring arranged at the lower part of the base body to make the locking sleeve reset upwards along the outer wall of the base body, wherein at least two sets of platform locking units are arranged in the base body. In the quick connection structure, after the hole wall of a tapered locking shaft hole of the locking sleeve releases the lock of a locking block while the locking sleeve sleeved on the outside of the base body slides downwards, the locking block moves outwards under the action of a locking block return spring, thus the connection platform for mounting an apparatus may be inserted. |
| US09726961B2 |
Camera mounting system
A camera mounting system is provided. The camera mounting system includes a manifold member coupled to a camera mount device, such as a tripod. One or more rods may be coupled to the manifold member. The one or more rods provide a support structure to mount one or more of a camera, photography equipment, and audio equipment. The system may further include a ball joint and a clamp wherein the ball joint and the clamp operate to couple an additional rod to an end of a rod coupled to the manifold member. |
| US09726958B2 |
Display panel and display device including hydrophobic and hydrophilic treatment of substrates
The present invention provides a display panel and a display device which can increase light use efficiency with a simple configuration. An optical modulation layer 30 provided between substrates 10 and 20 contains a polar solvent 31a, a nonpolar solvent 31b, and hydrophilic shape-anisotropic members 32, the hydrophilic substrate 20 makes contact with the polar solvent 31a, the hydrophobic substrate 10 makes contact with the nonpolar solvent 31b, a projected area of the shape-anisotropic members 32 onto the substrates 10 and 20 is changed by adjusting a magnitude of a voltage to be applied to the optical modulation layer 30. |
| US09726954B2 |
Active matrix substrate with thin film transistor and aperture portions, liquid crystal display device, and method for manufacturing active matrix substrate
An active matrix substrate (100A) includes a TFT (20), a scanning line (11) substantially parallel to a first direction, a signal line (12) substantially parallel to a second direction which is orthogonal to the first direction, a first interlayer insulating layer (16) covering the TFT, a lower layer electrode (17) provided on the first interlayer insulating layer, a dielectric layer (18) provided on the lower layer electrode, and an upper layer electrode (19) overlapping at least a portion of the lower layer electrode via the dielectric layer. A first contact hole (31) includes a first aperture (16a) formed in the first interlayer insulating layer and a second aperture (18a) formed in the dielectric layer. A width of the first aperture along one of the first direction and the second direction is smaller than a width of the second aperture along the one direction. A portion of the contour of the second aperture is located inside the contour of the first aperture, and the contour of the second aperture is not rectangular. The area of the portion of the second aperture not overlapping the first aperture is smaller than that in an imaginary case where the contour of the second aperture is rectangular. |
| US09726953B2 |
Active matrix substrate and liquid-crystal display device
A TFT substrate (10) includes a substrate (10a); a TFT (11) supported by the substrate; a scanning line (12); a signal line (13); a first interlayer insulating layer (15) provided so as to cover the TFT; a pixel electrode (16) electrically connected to a drain electrode (11d) of the TFT; and a transparent storage capacitor electrode (17) provided so as to overlap at least a part of the pixel electrode. At least the first interlayer insulating layer has a contact hole (CH) formed therein through which the pixel electrode is electrically connected to the drain electrode. The scanning line includes a first area (R1) in which the scanning line is branched into two branched lines (12a). The contact hole is located between the two branched lines. |
| US09726952B2 |
Liquid crystal display having wide viewing angle
A liquid crystal display includes first and second sub-pixels charged with the same voltage during a first period. The voltage charged in the second sub-pixel is decreased after the first period. Since the voltage level of the first sub-pixel is different from the voltage level of the second sub-pixel after the first period, liquid crystal molecules disposed corresponding to the first sub-pixel are aligned in a direction different from that of liquid crystal molecules disposed corresponding to the second sub-pixel. Thus, a side viewing angle of the liquid crystal display is improved. |
| US09726951B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device is provided with a thin film transistor which includes a gate electrode film that is provided in a first electrode layer located over a first insulating layer, a semiconductor film that is disposed over the gate electrode film via a second insulating layer, a drain electrode and a source electrode that are provided in a second electrode layer located over the semiconductor film and are in contact with an upper surface of the semiconductor film, and a light blocking film that is disposed under the first insulating layer. At least a part thereof overlaps the semiconductor film and the gate electrode film in a plan view. One of the drain electrode and the source electrode is connected to a gate line, and the light blocking film is electrically connected to the source electrode. |
| US09726950B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel and display device
A liquid crystal panel is disclosed. The panel includes a first substrate, having a plurality of color filter units. The panel also includes a second substrate disposed opposed to the first substrate, where the second substrate includes a plurality of gate lines, a plurality of data lines intersecting and insulated from the gate lines, and a plurality of pixel units connected to the gate and data lines. The panel also includes a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, and a shielding pillar disposed between two adjacent color filter units, where the shielding pillar includes a plurality of discontinuous auxiliary shielding pillars, and where each auxiliary shielding pillar intersects a data line at an included angle. |
| US09726946B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and production method for same
A liquid crystal display device includes an electrode configuration layer provided on a support substrate, the electrode configuration layer includes a stripe region having a plurality of electrode regions and a plurality of insulator regions arranged in an alternating manner, and the electrode regions and the insulator regions are formed by partially performing a reduction treatment or an oxidation treatment on a layer made of one material, thereby controlling conductivity. Further, the electrode regions are included in at least one of the pixel electrode and the counter electrode of the liquid crystal display device. |
| US09726943B2 |
Display panel comprising a common electrode having first and second main slits that correspond with first and second light shielding portions, respectively
A display panel including a first substrate, scan lines, data lines, active devices, color filter patterns, pixel electrodes and a light shielding pattern disposed on the first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, a liquid crystal layer disposed between the second substrate and the pixel electrodes and a common electrode disposed on the second substrate is provided. The light shielding pattern is located between two adjacent color filter patterns to shield a gap between the two adjacent color filter patterns. The common electrode has common electrode patterns and a main slit. The common electrode patterns are disposed correspondingly to the pixel electrodes. The main slit is disposed correspondingly to the light shielding pattern. |
| US09726941B2 |
Pixel unit, array substrate, display device, and pixel driving method
A pixel unit, including: a pixel electrode, a gate electrode, a gate electrode line connected with the gate electrode, a source electrode, a data line connected with the source electrode, a second electrode disposed in a same layer as the pixel electrode, a first drain electrode connected with the pixel electrode, and a second drain electrode connected with the second electrode; the first drain electrode and the second drain electrode and the source electrode are provided with a channel therebetween, and the first drain electrode and the second drain electrode do not contact each other; along a direction of the data line, the edge of the second electrode is parallel with the edge of the pixel electrode and the two do not contact. An array substrate, a pixel driving method and a display device are further disclosed for overcoming the phenomenon of light leakage of the edge of the pixel unit caused by reduction of the width of the black matrix. |
| US09726940B2 |
Active matrix substrate manufacturing method, display apparatus manufacturing method, and display apparatus
According to an embodiment of the present invention, an active matrix substrate manufacturing method includes: a step (a) of forming a thin film transistor on a substrate; a step (b) of forming an interlayer insulating layer covering the thin film transistor; a step (c) of forming a first electrode after the step (b); a step (d) of forming, after the step (c), a photospacer by applying a photosensitive resin material to the substrate and patterning the photosensitive resin material; and a step (e) of performing, after the step (d), plasma processing using a gas that contains a fluorine-based gas but does not contain oxygen gas. |
| US09726939B2 |
Transflective type blue phase liquid crystal display device and liquid crystal display module of the same
A transflective type blue phase liquid crystal display device and a liquid crystal display module of the same are disclosed. The transflective type blue phase liquid crystal display module includes an upper substrate, a lower substrate and blue phase liquid crystal molecules. Pixel electrodes and common electrodes are disposed alternately and disposed at intervals on an upper surface of each solid protrusion structure. Electric fields that are in parallel with a surface of each solid protrusion structure are generated in order to drive the blue phase liquid crystal molecules. Slope inclination angles provided at the upper portion and the lower portion of each solid protrusion structure are different such that optical delay properties at the transmissive region and the reflective region are identical. |
| US09726938B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
Red pixels (R), blue pixels (B) and green pixels (G) are formed in parallel. First columnar spacers 10 and second columnar spacers 20 are formed on a first substrate. The distance between the first substrate and a second substrate in a normal state is determined by the first columnar spacers 10. The diameter of a light blocking film corresponding to each first columnar spacer 10 is greater than the diameter of a light blocking film corresponding to each second columnar spacer 20. The first columnar spacer 10 is not formed at a boundary between a green pixel (G) and a red pixel (R) or a boundary between a green pixel (G) and a blue pixel (B). The second columnar spacer 20 is formed at a boundary between pixels irrespective of the pixel color. Thus, appropriate color balance can be attained with ease without having a drop in the luminance. |
| US09726935B2 |
Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display (LCD) includes a first base substrate, a pixel electrode disposed on the first base substrate, a second base substrate facing the first base substrate, and an overcoat layer disposed on the second base substrate. The overcoat layer may include at least one of polysilsesquioxane, polysilazane, or derivatives thereof. The LCD further includes a common electrode disposed on the overcoat layer to form an electric field with the pixel electrode, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first base substrate and the second base substrate. |
| US09726929B2 |
Wire grid polarizing plate and projection type image display device
A wire grid polarizing plate (10) has a substrate (11) having a concavo-convex structure extending in a particular direction on its surface, and a conductive material (12) provided to be distributed on one side surface (11b) of a convex portion (11a) of the concavo-convex structure. Further, in the wire grid polarizing plate (10), in a cross-sectional view in the perpendicular direction to the extension direction of the concavo-convex structure, a pitch P1 that is a distance between two adjacent convex portions (11a) is set at 120 nm or less, and a convex-portion height (H) that is a difference in height between a highest portion (11c) of the convex portion (11a) and a lowest portion (11e) of a concave portion (11d) is set at 0.8 time to 1.3 time the pitch P1. With the wire grid polarizing plate (10) in a liquid crystal display device, high image quality can be achieved. |
| US09726928B2 |
Backlight unit and liquid crystal display including the same
A backlight unit for a liquid crystal display device, the backlight unit including: an light emitting diode (“LED”) light source; a light conversion layer disposed separate from the LED light source to convert light emitted from the LED light source to white light and to provide the white light to the liquid crystal panel; and a light guide panel disposed between the LED light source and the light conversion layer, wherein the light conversion layer includes a semiconductor nanocrystal and a polymer matrix, and wherein the polymer matrix includes a first polymerized polymer of a first monomer including at least two thiol (—SH) groups, each located at a terminal end of the first monomer, and a second monomer including at least two unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds, each located at a terminal end of the second monomer. |
| US09726927B2 |
User terminal and display device thereof
A user terminal and a display device thereof are provided. The display device includes a display panel including a glass plate for displaying an image by outputting light, and a polarizing plate attached to both a top surface and a bottom surface of the glass plate for exposing an edge portion of the glass plate, a cover window mounted on the display panel for transmitting the light, an adhesive sheet interposed between the display panel and the cover window and for adhering the cover window at the edge portion of the glass plate. The user terminal can be formed to have a small thickness and size, and light is shielded from being leaked to the outside of the user terminal via an edge portion of the display panel in the user terminal. |
| US09726926B2 |
Display device having an anisotropic scattering member
Disclosed herein is a display device including a reflection type image display portion having a sheet-like anisotropic scattering member. In an area, in an in-plane direction, of the anisotropic scattering member, a low-refractive index area and a high-refractive index area are disposed in a mixture style. The anisotropic scattering member is disposed so that a light is scattered when an outside light is made incident from a surface side on which a degree of a change in a refractive index in a vicinity of a boundary between the low-refractive index area and the high-refractive index area is relatively large, and is emitted from a surface side on which the degree of the change in the refractive index in the vicinity of the boundary between the low-refractive index area and the high-refractive index area is relatively small. |
| US09726923B2 |
Touch liquid crystal display module having polarizer film comprising compensating layer, polarization layer, and polarization-protective layer
The present invention provides a touch LCM comprising an array substrate and a color film substrate provided opposite to each other, wherein an optical film set is provided at a side of the color film substrate away from the array substrate, comprising a touch signal feedback layer, a touch signal receiving layer and an upper polarizer film provided there between. With the design of integrating the upper polarizer film, the touch signal feedback layer and the touch signal receiving layer into the optical film set, the optical film set has both the polarizing function in the conventional sense and the function of touch electrode. |
| US09726920B2 |
Backlight assembly, and liquid crystal display module and liquid crystal display device having the same
A liquid crystal display (“LCD”) module includes a backlight assembly emitting light, a LCD panel overlapping the backlight assembly, and an upper cover. The backlight includes a light source module emitting the light, a light guide plate (“LGP”) including edges and a middle portion, and a LGP support overlapping the edges of the LGP. The LGP support includes a plurality of LGP supporting pieces connected to each other so as to form a polygonal shape, each of the LGP supporting pieces including a LGP supporting portion including a LGP supporting surface overlapping the edges of the LGP, and the LGP supporting surfaces of each of the LGP supporting pieces of the LGP support are placed on a same plane. Opposing LGP supporting pieces are interconnected by an LCD module mounting member. |
| US09726915B2 |
Method and device to modify the electrical properties of an organic and/or molecular material
Disclosed is a method to modify the electrical conductivity of an organic and/or molecular material including the steps of providing a reflective or photonic structure and of placing the organic and/or molecular material in or on the structure. The method also includes providing a structure (1) which has an electromagnetic mode which is by design, or can be made by way of adjustment or tuning, resonant with a transition in the organic and/or molecular material (2) and controlling, in particular enhancing, the mobility of the charge carriers, and thus the electrical current, in the organic and/or molecular material (2), by way of strongly coupling the material (2) to the local electromagnetic vacuum field and exploiting the formation of extended macroscopic states in the material. |
| US09726910B2 |
Phototherapeutic near IR fluorescent light filters
Ophthalmic lenses and light filters containing special additives that have fluorescence emission in the near infrared region of wavelengths—in order to enhance phototherapy for the human eye when it is exposed to sunlight and artificial lighting. |
| US09726909B2 |
Adaptive optical filter
The invention relates to an optical filter comprising: at least one optically transparent liquid-crystal shutter, the shutter having a polarization voltage ULCD that marks a threshold between two polarization states, and being designed to switch between at least two opacities OP1 and OP2, OP2 being strictly higher than OP1, when it receives a voltage that is above or below, respectively, the polarization voltage ULCD; and an electronic system comprising: an electronic module for controlling the liquid-crystal shutter, designed to control the voltage applied to the liquid crystal shutter; a photosensitive sensor, designed to deliver, to the electronic control module, a continuous voltage Ucs that varies depending on the luminous intensity that it receives, the photosensitive sensor being the only power supply of the electronic control module and the liquid-crystal shutter, the optical filter being characterized in that, if the photosensitive sensor receives a luminous intensity below a dazzle threshold le, the liquid-crystal shutter has an opacity OP1, and in that the electronic control module is designed, when the photosensitive sensor receives a luminous intensity above the dazzle threshold le, to deliver, to the liquid-crystal shutter, a continuous voltage Ue that is strictly above the polarization voltage ULCD of the shutter, so that the latter switches from opacity OP1 to opacity OP2. |
| US09726907B2 |
Rewritable lens and method of manufacturing
A rewritable and freezable lens and method for manufacturing thereof are disclosed. This lens includes at least one active element that has optical properties that can be written, frozen and rewritten into new values at least twice. Rewritable and freezable lenses comprising active index polymer dispersed liquid crystal materials are disclosed. In-situ re-adaptation of spectacle and contact lenses is possible at the point of sale. In-vivo re-adaptation of intraocular lenses in the doctor's room is feasible, avoiding further surgery. |
| US09726904B1 |
Eyewear with conductive temple joint
Apparatuses and systems for wearable devices such as eyewear are described. According to one embodiment, the wearable device includes a frame, a temple, onboard electronics components, and a coupling mechanism. The frame is configured to hold one or more optical elements. The temple is connected to the frame at an articulated joint such that the temple is disposable between a collapsed condition and a wearable condition in which the device is wearable by a user to hold the one or more optical elements within user view. The onboard electronics components comprise at least a pair of electronics components carried by the frame and the temple respectively. The coupling mechanism is incorporated in the articulated joint and that is configured to electrically connect the pair of electronics components across the articulated joint both when the temple is in the wearable condition and when the temple is in the collapsed condition. |
| US09726900B1 |
Magnetically locking reversible eyewear and method of reversing orientation of same
Reversible orientation eyewear for which each of the temple arms moves from an initial orientation relative to the lens frame to a reverse orientation relative to the lens frame by undergoing movements that include rotating a locking piece from the one of the two relative positions to the remainder of the two relative positions and thereby becoming free of magnetic attraction by the magnetically attractive elements; pivoting the temple arms about associated ones of the two ends of the lens frame; and rotating the locking piece from the remainder of the two relative positions to the one of the relative positions to restore magnetic attraction by the magnetically attractive elements. |
| US09726896B2 |
Virtual monitor display technique for augmented reality environments
Methods, apparatus, and computer-readable media are described herein related to a virtual monitor display technique for augmented reality environments targeted at allowing a user of a display-enabled computing device to substitute their conventional hardware-realized display screen with a virtualized display screen of equal or better usability characteristics than the hardware-realized device. A virtual screen is rendered via a micro display in an augmented reality environment to a human user wearing a see through head mountable device. The system architecture makes use of liquid lens technology in order to adjust the relative position of the display as well as the focal distance by optical means only thereby ensuring that the virtual screen is rendered at the maximum resolution of the micro display at all times. The system architecture also comprises an occlusion matrix thereby ensuring that the virtual screen is free of ghosting. The system is configured in such a way that a display auto-hide function is triggered whenever certain threshold parameters are exceeded. The virtual monitor display technique described herein has been designed with the aim of reducing the effects simulator sickness during prolonged use of the virtual display. |
| US09726895B2 |
Wearable display device having a sliding structure
A wearable display device that employs a sliding structure is disclosed. The device includes: a frame; a main unit coupled to the frame; a non-bending part, which includes a camera configured to capture an image of a forward direction, and which is coupled to the main unit and is configured to slide to a first position; a hinge coupled with the non-bending part; and a bending part, which is configured to provide image information to a user, and which is coupled with the hinge to rotate within a predefined angle. When the bending part is rotated, the camera is exposed to the exterior and moves from the first position to a second position. The device prevents malfunctioning and damage even when the device is worn for extended periods, and it is possible to resolve the problem of the wearable display device obstructing the field of vision when not in use. |
| US09726892B2 |
Light guide prism and image display apparatus
A light guide prism for guiding image light from a display device to an observer's eye and displaying a virtual image of the display device in the observer's field of view includes at least four sides disposed to surround an optical path of image light incident from one end, a reflecting surface configured to reflect the image light guided by the at least four sides, and an emission surface configured to emit the image light reflected at the reflecting surface towards the observer's eye. At least one groove in a V-shape is formed on each of the at least four sides. As a result, a light guide prism that reduces stray light and ghost light occurring due to reflection at inner surfaces and an image display apparatus using this light guide prism can be provided. |
| US09726882B2 |
Drive element for an optical system
Optical system comprising a motor, an optical element, an optical detector, and a linkage that connects operation of the motor to movement of the optical element and the optical detector relative to one another. The linkage may include a shaft and a drive element that operatively connects the shaft to another part of the linkage. In some embodiments, the drive element may include a clamp having a base and a retainer that compressively secure the drive element to the shaft by engagement of a cylindrical surface region of the shaft with the base and engagement of a flat surface region of the shaft with the retainer. In some embodiments, the drive element may include a collar secured to the shaft with a fastener disposed in threaded engagement with a transverse hole defined by the shaft. |
| US09726880B1 |
Row driving architecture for electrowetting display elements
In a system having a matrix of electrowetting display elements, a column driving system transmits a column voltage signal to an electrode of each electrowetting display element of at least one selected row of n rows of electrowetting display elements. A first row driving system transmits a first row voltage signal to a switchable element associated with each respective electrowetting display element of the selected row. A second row driving system transmits a second row voltage signal to the switchable element associated with each respective electrowetting display element of rows of the n rows of electrowetting display elements. A configuration of respective first and second fluids of the electrowetting display elements of at least one row of the n rows is controlled by selectively transmitting: the first row voltage signal using the first row driving system, and the second row voltage signal, using the second row driving system. |
| US09726876B2 |
Machine vision inspection system and method for obtaining an image with an extended depth of field
A method for operating an imaging system of a machine vision inspection system to provide an extended depth of field (EDOF) image. The method comprises (a) placing a workpiece in a field of view; (b) periodically modulating a focus position of the imaging system without macroscopically adjusting the spacing between elements in the imaging system, the focus position is periodically modulated over a plurality of positions along a focus axis direction in a focus range including a workpiece surface height; (c) exposing a first preliminary image during an image integration time while modulating the focus position in the focus range; and (d) processing the first preliminary image to remove blurred image contributions occurring in the focus range during the image integration time to provide an EDOF image that is focused throughout a larger depth of field than the imaging system provides at a single focal position. |
| US09726870B2 |
Catadioptric projection objective
A projection objective for microlithography for imaging an object field onto an image field includes: a first partial objective for imaging the object field onto a first real intermediate image; a second partial objective for imaging the first intermediate image onto a second real intermediate image; a third partial objective for imaging the second intermediate image onto the image field, the third partial objective including an aperture; and a first folding mirror for deflecting radiation toward a concave mirror and a second folding mirror for deflecting the radiation from the concave mirror toward the image plane; in which the projection objective is an immersion projection objective in which during operation an immersion liquid is situated between a last lens surface and an image plane, and at least one surface of at least one lens in the second partial objective has an antireflection coating including at least six layers. |
| US09726865B2 |
Zoom lens system
A zoom lens system includes a positive first lens group, a negative second lens group, a positive third lens group, a negative fourth lens group, and a positive fifth lens group having a plurality of lens elements. During zooming from the short to long focal length extremities, at least the first, third and fifth lens groups move in an optical axis direction. A surface closest to the image side of the zoom lens system is a concave surface facing the image side. The following condition (1) is satisfied: 0.52<(m345t/m345w)/(ft/fw)<0.70 (1), wherein m345w and m345t designate, at the short and long focal length extremities, respectively, the combined lateral magnification of the third, fourth and fifth lens groups when focused on an object at infinity; and fw and ft designate the focal length of the zoom lens system at the short and long focal length extremities, respectively. |
| US09726863B2 |
Wide angle zoom lens
A wide angle zoom lens includes sequentially from the object side, a first lens group having a negative refractive power overall and three lenses, including first to third lenses, having a negative refractive power and disposed farthest on the object side; a second lens group having a positive refractive power overall and one or more sets of cemented lenses; and a third lens group having a negative refractive power. This ultra wide angle zoom lens varies intervals between the first lens group, the second lens group, and the third lens group on the optical axis to zoom from the wide angle end to the telephoto end and satisfies given conditions to thereby enable a high zoom ratio, large diameter, and high resolution. |
| US09726862B2 |
Lens assemblies and actuators for optical systems and methods therefor
An optical zoom in a small form factor suitable for use in mobile devices such as cell phones, security cameras, and other small-scale imaging systems. One or more Alvarez lens pairs are provided, and moved transversely to the optical axis. The combination of one or more Alvarez lens pairs and the actuator permits a zoom power of at least 3× with a lateral displacement distance of the optical components of approximately five millimeters or less. |
| US09726857B2 |
Optical photographing lens assembly, image capturing device and electronic device
An optical photographing lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element, a fifth lens element and a sixth lens element. The first lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof. The second lens element has refractive power. The third lens element has refractive power. The fourth lens element has refractive power. The fifth lens element with refractive power has an image-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof, wherein an object-side surface and the image-side surface of the fifth lens element are both aspheric. The sixth lens element with refractive power has an object-side surface and an image-side surface being both aspheric. The optical photographing lens assembly has a total of six lens elements with refractive power. |
| US09726847B2 |
Camera module having a connector connecting a lens assembly and a lens barrel of the camera module
Disclosed is a camera module. The camera module includes a lens assembly comprising a plurality of lens units having a polygonal outer peripheral portion, a lens barrel receiving the lens assembly, a fixing unit fixing the lens assembly to the lens barrel, a housing coupled with the lens barrel, and a sensor unit in the housing. The lens barrel is provided in a lower portion thereof with a receiving groove, and the receiving groove has a shape corresponding to a shape of the lens assembly. |
| US09726844B2 |
Lighted tip for flexible rods
In one aspect, a lighted tip for attachment to a flexible rod comprises a tip body having proximal and distal ends, a mechanical connector at the proximal end, a lens connected to the distal end, a light source that emits light through the lens, and a holder coupled to the light source and the lens. A circuit is completed or interrupted as the holder moves in relation to the tip body, thereby switching the light source on or off. In another aspect, a lighted tip for attachment to a flexible rod comprises a lens forming a distal end of the lighted tip. The lens is cylindrical over at least some of its length, and the tip further includes a light source at least partially within the cylindrical lens portion and a mechanical connector at a proximal end if the lighted tip, for connecting the tip to the flexible rod. |
| US09726843B2 |
Variable lay stranding
An optical cable includes a core member and a plurality of strands wound around the core member in an SZ configuration, the SZ configuration having at least two reversal sections and a helical section extending along a longitudinal length between the at least two reversal sections. A helical lay length of the wound strands is variable along the longitudinal length of the helical section. A method of forming an optical cable includes providing a core member and surrounding the core member with a plurality of strands by winding the strands in an SZ configuration that includes a helical section extending longitudinally between at least two reversal sections. |
| US09726837B2 |
Light pipe connector apparatus
Light can be transmitted between a light source and a light detector or target by using at least two mating connector sections of a light pipe connector. A protrusion of one of the connector sections is designed to be received within a receptacle of another of the connector sections, which can make the light pipe connector mechanically compliant. The two connector sections are fabricated from an optically transmissive material, and have optically reflective surfaces in orthogonal orientations to optically transmissive surfaces adjacent to the light source and the light detector. When the protrusion of one of the connector sections is engaged within the receptacle of another connector section, light can be transmitted through optically transmissive surfaces adjacent to a light source and a light detector, while the orthogonally oriented optically reflective surfaces direct light towards the light detector. |
| US09726836B2 |
Micromechanically aligned optical assembly
An optical assembly includes a combination of laser sources emitting radiation, focused by a combination of lenses into optical waveguides. The optical waveguide and the laser source are permanently attached to a common carrier, while at least one of the lenses is attached to a holder that is an integral part of the carrier, but is free to move initially. Micromechanical techniques are used to adjust the position of the lens and holder, and then fix the holder it into place permanently using integrated heaters with solder. |
| US09726834B2 |
Systems and methods for laser systems with variable beam parameter product utilizing acousto-optic elements and variable refractive index components
In various embodiments, a beam-parameter adjustment system and focusing system alters a spatial power distribution of a radiation beams before the beam is coupled into an optical fiber or delivered to a workpiece. |
| US09726831B2 |
Bayonet lock MPO connector
Optical fiber connectors for MT/MPO type ferrule assemblies are disclosed, having an overall connector length less than about 32 mm, for example, an overall length of about 18.5 mm for non-reinforced optical fiber cables, and an overall length of about 23.5 mm for reinforced optical fiber cables. In one embodiment, a connector comprises a ferrule assembly, and a housing coupled to the ferrule assembly and configured to couple to an adapter corresponding to the ferrule assembly. The connector further includes a lock coupled to the housing and configured to rotate so as to lock and unlock the housing from said adapter. An interface member coupled to the housing may include a stop configured to limit rotation of the lock. The interface member may include a reinforcement portion for reinforcing optical fiber cables. |
| US09726826B2 |
Inter-lens adjusting method and photoelectric hybrid substrate
An inter-lens adjusting method includes: fitting a plurality of fitting portions to a plurality of fitted portions, wherein each of the plurality of fitting portions is provided on the side of a first lens for collimating light emitted from a light emitting device and includes at least one of a convex portion and a concave portion and each of the plurality of fitted portions is provided on the side of a second lens for aggregating the light collimated by the first lens and has a shape to be fitted to a corresponding one of the plurality of fitting portions; and adjusting a position between the first lens and the second lens such that the light emitted from the light emitting device is aggregated into an optical fiber ferrule via the first lens and the second lens. |
| US09726819B2 |
Complementary metal oxide semiconductor device with III-V optical interconnect having III-V epitaxial semiconductor material formed using lateral overgrowth
An electrical device that includes a first semiconductor device positioned on a first portion of a substrate and a second semiconductor device positioned on a third portion of the substrate, wherein the first and third portions of the substrate are separated by a second portion of the substrate. An interlevel dielectric layer is present on the first, second and third portions of the substrate. The interlevel dielectric layer is present over the first and second semiconductor devices. An optical interconnect is positioned over the second portion of the semiconductor substrate. At least one material layer of the optical interconnect includes an epitaxial material that is in direct contact with a seed surface within the second portion of the substrate through a via extending through the least one interlevel dielectric layer. |
| US09726818B1 |
Multi-wavelength band optical phase and amplitude controller
A photonic waveguide for conducting light having first and second wavelengths, the waveguide comprising superposed first and second strips of light conducting semiconductor materials having first and second refractive indexes, wherein the second wavelength is shorter than the first wavelength and the second refractive index is higher than the first refractive index, wherein the width and height of the first strip of light conducting semiconductor material are such that the first strip of light conducting semiconductor material is adapted to confine an optical mode of the first wavelength and the width and height of the second strip of light conducting semiconductor material are such that the second strip of light conducting semiconductor material is adapted to confine an optical mode of the second wavelength but is too narrow to confine an optical mode of the first wavelength. |
| US09726817B2 |
Small-diameter polarization maintaining optical fiber
Disclosed is a small-diameter polarization maintaining optical fiber, which relates to the field of special optical fibers. The small-diameter polarization maintaining optical fiber comprises a quartz optical fiber (5); the periphery thereof is provided with an inner coating (6) and an outer coating (8); the interior of the quartz optical fiber (5) is provided with an optical fiber core layer (1) and a quartz cladding (2); two stress zones (4) are arranged between the optical fiber core layer (1) and the quartz cladding (2); a buffer coating (7) is arranged between the inner coating (6) and the outer coating (8); the periphery of each stress zone (4) is provided with a buffer layer (3) which is concentric with the stress zone (4); when a working wavelength of a small-diameter polarization maintaining optical fiber is 1310 nm, the attenuation thereof reaches less than 0.5 dB/km, and the crosstalk reaches −35 dB/km; and when the working wavelength of the small-diameter polarization maintaining optical fiber is 1550 nm, the attenuation thereof reaches less than 0.4 dB/km, and the crosstalk reaches −30 dB/km. The optical fiber not only has excellent stability characteristics of attenuation and crosstalk, but also has the excellent stability characteristic of long-term operation, and can provide a better optical fiber ring for research on a high-precision optical fiber gyroscope, thereby laying the foundation for the development directions of miniaturization and high precision of the optical fiber gyroscope. |
| US09726814B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and method for manufacturing LGP positioning block thereof
The present invention provides a liquid crystal display device and a method for manufacturing a light guide plate (LGP) positioning block thereof. The LGP positioning block (9) of the liquid crystal display device includes a positioning block body (91) and liquid (93) hermetically sealed in the positioning block body (91). The positioning block body (91) possesses elasticity. In a low temperature, the liquid (93) is condensed and expanded so as to enlarge the size of the positioning block body (91) to compensate the reduction of the size of a light guide plate (3) due to contraction caused by cooling; and in a high temperature, the elasticity of the positioning block body (91) absorbs the expansion of the size of the light guide plate (3) caused by heating. The LGP positioning block (9) of the liquid crystal display device is adjustable with the variation of the surrounding temperature so as to achieve effective positioning of the light guide plate (3) thereby providing high reliability of the liquid crystal display device and stable taste of displayed images. |
| US09726813B2 |
LED assembly and liquid crystal display device including the same
A light emitting diode assembly according to an embodiment includes a base film having first and second surfaces opposite to each other; first and second conductive layers on the first and second surfaces of the base film, respectively; a first coverlay on the first conductive layer, the first coverlay including an open portion exposing the first conductive layer; a second coverlay on the second conductive layer, the second coverlay including a heat radiation opening; and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the first coverlay, the plurality of LEDs contacting the first conductive layer exposed through the open portion of the first coverlay. |
| US09726803B2 |
Full range gesture system
This disclosure relates to an interactive display, having a front surface including a viewing area, and providing an input/output interface for a user of an electronic device. A planar light guide (PLG) disposed substantially parallel to the front surface, has a periphery at least coextensive with the viewing area. A light-emitting source (LES), disposed outside the periphery of the PLG, is optically coupled with a PLG input. The PLG outputs reflected light, in a direction substantially orthogonal to the front surface, by reflecting light received from the LES. A light collecting device (LCD) collects scattered light that results from interaction of the reflected light with a user-controlled object. The LCD redirects the collected scattered light toward one or more light sensors. A processor recognizes, from outputs of the light sensors, an instance of a user gesture, and controls the interactive display and/or electronic device, responsive to the user gesture. |
| US09726798B2 |
Optical film, polarizing plate, and method for producing optical film
An optical film of the present invention includes a positive A-plate and a positive C-plate, in which the Re(450), Re(550), and Re(650) of the positive A-plate satisfy the relationship of Re(450)≦Re(550)≦Re(650), the positive A-plate is formed of a cured product of a composition including the liquid crystal compound A, and the positive C-plate is formed of a cured product of a composition including the liquid crystal compound C. |
| US09726793B2 |
Open-type color reflective sheet and method of manufacturing the same
An open-type color reflective sheet and a method of manufacturing the open-type color reflective sheet are provided. The open-type color reflective sheet may include a support layer, a bonding layer laminated on one surface of the support layer and including a binder resin, a pigment and a non-yellowing polyurethane resin, a reflective layer including a plurality of bead-type reflectors embedded in the bonding layer, and a water-repellent coating layer laminated on one surface of the reflective layer, and may selectively include a printed layer formed on the one surface or another. |
| US09726790B2 |
Systems and methods for implementing selective electromagnetic energy filtering objects and coatings using selectably transmissive energy scattering layers
A system and method are provided for forming energy filter layers or shutter components, including energy/light directing/scattering layers that are actively electrically switchable. The energy filters or shutter components are operable between at least a first mode in which the layers, and thus the presentation of the shutter components, appear substantially transparent when viewed from an energy/light incident side, and a second mode in which the layers, and thus the presentation of the energy filters or shutter components, appear opaque to the incident energy impinging on the energy incident side. The differing modes are selectable by electrically energizing, differentially energizing and/or de-energizing electric fields in a vicinity of the energy scattering layers, including electric fields generated between a pair of transparent electrodes sandwiching an energy scattering layer. Refractive indices of transparent particles, and the transparent matrices in which the particles are fixed, are tunable according to the applied electric fields. |
| US09726788B2 |
Method for fabricating nanoantenna array, nanoantenna array chip and structure for lithography
A method for fabricating a nanoantenna array may include forming a resist layer on a substrate, forming a focusing layer having a dielectric microstructure array on the resist layer, diffusing light one-dimensionally in a specific direction by using a linear diffuser, forming an anisotropic pattern on the resist layer by illuminating the light diffused by the linear diffuser on the focusing layer and the resist layer, depositing a material suitable for a plasmonic resonance onto the substrate and the resist layer on which the pattern is formed, and forming a nanoantenna array on the substrate by removing the resist layer and the material deposited on the resist layer. A light diffusing angle by the linear diffuser and a size of the dielectric microstructure are determined based on an aspect ratio of the pattern to be formed. |
| US09726787B2 |
Method for the production of an optical article with improved anti-fouling properties
The present invention is dedicated to a method for the manufacture of an optical article comprising the following steps: providing a substrate having two main faces and bearing —OH functions on at least one of its faces, successively exposing one face of the substrate bearing —OH functions to at least 2 distinct materials named M1 and M2, M1 having a weight average molecular weight higher than M2, in a vacuum chamber under conditions resulting in the deposit of those materials on the surface of the substrate, and wherein: M1 is a substituted silane comprising: at least one function X1 bonded to a silicon atom, wherein the Si—X1 group is capable of forming a covalent bond with a —OH group of the substrate and/or a covalent bond with M2, and at least one fluorine containing group, M2 is a substituted silane having a number average molecular weight inferior or equal to 900 g/mol, comprising: at least one function X2 bonded to a silicon atom, wherein the Si—X2 group is capable of forming a covalent bond with a —OH group of the substrate and/or a covalent bond with M1, and at least one hydrophobic and/or oleophobic group, or at least one hydrophilic group, wherein the difference between the weight average molecular weight of M1 and the weight average molecular weight of M2 is higher than or equal to 600 g/mol. |
| US09726783B2 |
Methods and systems for thermal printing of photonic crystal materials, and thermally printable photonic crystal materials and assemblies
Methods and systems for thermal printing of thermally printable photonic crystal materials and assemblies. The photonic crystal materials and assemblies are responsive to thermal stimuli, wherein temperatures above a thermal threshold results in an optically detectable change in the appearance of the materials and assemblies. Heat is selectively applied to one or more portions of the materials and assemblies, in order to thermally print a graphic onto the materials and assemblies. |
| US09726782B2 |
Methods, systems and computer program storage devices for generating a response to flooding
The present disclosure relates generally to methods, systems and computer program storage devices for generating a response to flooding. In one specific example, the present disclosure relates to methods, systems and computer program storage devices for generating one or more operational responses to flooding. |
| US09726780B2 |
Resistivity logging tools with tilted ferrite elements for azimuthal sensitivity
An example logging tool includes a tool body characterized by a longitudinal axis and an antenna coupled to the tool body. The logging tool further includes a ferrite element coupled to the tool body proximate at least a portion of the antenna and in a non-parallel orientation with respect to a normal of a plane defined by the antenna. |
| US09726779B2 |
UWB measuring device
A UWB measuring device, in particular a hand-held positioning device, includes at least one signal-generating unit for generating at least one first UWB measuring signal, which is intended for a UWB measurement. The signal-generating unit is provided for generating a second measuring signal that differs from the first UWB measuring signal in at least one signal parameter. The second measuring signal is intended to detect a distance from an examination object and/or contact with the examination object. |
| US09726770B2 |
Multiple actuator vibrator
An improved baseplate design is described that correct the flexure with a plurality of actuators mounted on top of the base plate. Sensors and a feedback circuit enables the detection of flexure and a corresponding compensating scheme to correct and/or prevent the flexure in order for the baseplate to complete couple with the ground for more accurate seismic survey. |
| US09726768B2 |
Plasma panel based ionizing-particle radiation detector
A position-sensitive ionizing-particle radiation counting detector includes a first substrate and a second substrate generally parallel to the first substrate and forming a gap with the first substrate, with a discharge gas contained within the gap. The detector includes a first electrode electrically coupled to the second substrate, and a second electrode electrically coupled to the first electrode and defining at least one pixel with the first electrode. The detector further includes an open dielectric structure pattern layered over one of the first or second electrodes and a current-limiting quench resistor coupled in series to one of the first or second electrodes. The detector further includes a power supply coupled to one of the first or second electrodes and a first discharge event detector circuitry coupled to the one of the first or second electrodes for detecting a gas discharge counting event in the electrode. |
| US09726767B2 |
Radiation imaging apparatus and radiation imaging system
A radiation imaging apparatus includes a unit constituted by arranging blocks in line and an information processing unit. Each of the blocks includes a conversion element configured to generate an image signal corresponding to radiation, a switching element connected between the conversion element and a column signal line, a detection element configured to detect radiation, and a detection signal line connected to the detection element. The information processing unit corrects a signal from the detection element, by using a value of the signal based on a parasitic capacitance between the conversion elements arranged on the same column as a column of the detection element. |
| US09726765B2 |
Tight optical integration (TOI) of images with GPS range measurements
A method of determining the position of a user in 3D space is disclosed. In one example, the method comprises utilizing range measurements from one or more GPS satellite vehicles, angular information of a camera located at the user position, and a camera image associated with one or more known markers. The method further comprises determining the angular information of the camera by determining a direction cosine matrix between a camera frame of reference and an earth frame of reference, and designating unit vectors that individually extend from a position within the camera image associated with one of the known markers through the camera focal point to the respective known marker The method also includes integrating into an ordinary least squares matrix, the GPS range measurements, the angular information of the camera, and the unit vectors, and calculating the user position by solving the ordinary least squares matrix. |
| US09726761B2 |
Target rotation determination by differential doppler evaluation
Systems and corresponding methods for use in measuring rotation characteristics (e.g., rotation magnitude and direction) of remote targets are provided. A laser light of a known frequency is incident upon the target and reflected. A portion of the reflected laser light is directed to detector field of view, where it is measured and analyzed. The detector field of view is divided into multiple segments, each capable of independently measuring the intensity and frequency of laser light incident thereon. The rotation magnitude of the target may be correlated with the width of the total Doppler spread of reflected light incident upon the detector. The rotation direction of the target may be correlated to a difference in the Doppler spreads measured for corresponding halves of the detector. |
| US09726760B2 |
Dual-directional laser rangefinder
A dual-directional laser rangefinder has a housing with two laser modules and one control module mounted therein. The laser modules emit laser beams toward both sides of the housing and receive the reflected laser beams. The control module computes respectively travel times or the phase differences for the two laser beams from the laser modules, and then computes two distances from the two ends of the housing to the two objects of interest. After adding the length of the housing, the invention obtains an actual total distance between the two objects of interest. |
| US09726758B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting target using radar
The present invention suggests a target detecting apparatus and method using a radar which detect a target using a recursive modified cell average-constant false alarm rate (RMCA-CFAR) detector without having a sorting process. The present invention provides a target detecting apparatus using a radar, the apparatus including: a data selecting unit which compares reference data with at least one of previous data and subsequent data which are located at both sides of the reference data, from a received signal including information on a distance and a speed for multiple targets, to select specific data; a cell average calculating unit which calculates an average of cells extracted using a sliding window including the specific data; a CFAR data detecting unit which detects CFAR data based on the average of the extracted cells; and a target detecting unit which detects the target based on the CFAR data. |
| US09726754B2 |
Method and device for calibrating a 3D TOF camera system
A method for calibrating a three dimensional time-of-flight camera system mounted on a device, includes determining at a first instant a direction vector relating to an object; determining an expected direction vector and expected angle for the object to be measured at a second instant with reference to the device's assumed trajectory and optical axis of the camera; determining a current direction vector and current angle at the second instant; determining an error represented by a difference between the current direction vector and the expected direction vector; and using the error to correct the assumed direction of the main optical axis of the camera system such that said error is substantially eliminated. |
| US09726752B2 |
Position location for wireless communication systems
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to position location in a wireless communication system, and may more particularly relate to position location for a mobile station. |
| US09726751B2 |
Measuring time of arrival of a signal
This disclosure concerns estimating the location of a transmitter using multiple pairs of locator nodes with known locations and measuring time of arrival of a signal received from a transmitter. A processor of a location estimation node first determines time difference of arrival values from time of arrival values measured by each pair of locator nodes. The processor then determines likelihood information for multiple candidate locations of the transmitter and estimates the location of the transmitter from the likelihood information. A processor further determines an initial time of arrival value for the received signal and channel impulse response for a radio channel between the transmitter and receiver. The processor then determines a time correction from the channel impulse response based on a first peak of the channel impulse response and a leading edge of the first value. The processor finally determines an improved time of arrival value of the received signal. |
| US09726739B2 |
Method and apparatus for optimization of a pulse sequence for a magnetic resonance system
In a method and a pulse sequence optimization device to optimize a pulse sequence for a magnetic resonance system, wherein pulse sequence includes at least one refocusing pulse, a readout gradient pulse temporally situated after the refocusing pulse, and at least one readout spoiler pulse, the pulse duration of the readout gradient pulse is shortened while keeping the readout gradient moment constant, and the pulse shape of the readout spoiler pulse is adapted without changing a total spoiler moment. An optimally shortened pulse duration of the readout gradient pulse is achieved when, with the adaptation of the pulse shape of the readout spoiler pulse, a maximum amplitude of the readout spoiler pulse equals to the amplitude of the readout gradient pulse, and an edge steepness of the readout spoiler pulse is minimized. |
| US09726738B2 |
Energy-saving method of generating time-varying magnetic gradients for use in MRI
An apparatus and method which produce a magnetic field gradient by physically rotating one or more permanent magnets near an object in order to obtain images of the object. |
| US09726734B2 |
Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and magnetic resonance imaging method
An MRI apparatus includes a charge/discharge controlling unit, a judging unit and a condition restricting unit. The charge/discharge controlling unit includes a charge/discharge element, receives electric power, and charges the charge/discharge element by using the received electric power. The charge/discharge controlling unit also supplies a gradient magnetic field coil with electric power discharged from the charge/discharge element at a time of performance of magnetic resonance imaging. The judging unit judges whether capacitance of the charge/discharge element falls below a threshold value or not. The condition restricting unit restricts electric power amount supplied to the gradient magnetic field coil by restricting conditions of an imaging sequence, when the capacitance of the charge/discharge element falls below the threshold value. |
| US09726732B2 |
Adaptive battery parameter extraction and SOC estimation for lithium-ion battery
A system and method for estimating internal parameters of a lithium-ion battery to provide a reliable battery state-of-charge estimate. The method uses a two RC-pair equivalent battery circuit model to estimate the battery parameters, including a battery open circuit voltage, an ohmic resistance, a double layer capacitance, a charge transfer resistance, a diffusion resistance and a diffusion capacitance. The method further uses the equivalent circuit model to provide a difference equation from which the battery parameters are adapted, and calculates the battery parameters from the difference equation. |
| US09726730B2 |
System and method for determining a state of health of a power source of a portable device
A method for determining a State of Health (SoH) of a power source of a portable device involves extracting a start voltage value of an examined power source; activating one or more hardware components of the portable device by a software, to increase the current consumption of the device, identifying a voltage drop rate of the examined power source and comparing a calculated voltage drop rate to pre-calculated threshold values stored on a database of a main server. A system for executing the method is also disclosed. |
| US09726729B2 |
Method for controlling electric motor by trigger
An example method for controlling an electric motor in an electric tool includes detecting travel of the trigger, selecting a smoothing coefficient N according to travel of the trigger in a predetermined time, driving the electric motor with an output duty ratio which is figured out by a formula in which the smoothing coefficient N is a denominator so as to cause the output duty ratio to be lesser than a preset duty ratio. The methods described will decrease the current impact on electric motors when users pull the trigger. |
| US09726724B2 |
On-chip current test circuit
An integrated circuit that includes a processor also has an on-chip current test circuit that indirectly measures quiescent current in the processor. A supply voltage pin of the integrated circuit receives a supply voltage from an external test unit to provide power to the processor. The on-chip test circuit measures a voltage change across the processor during a predetermined test period T when the processor is isolated from the supply voltage and the clock signal is stopped. The voltage change provides an indication of quiescent current corresponding to the processor. |
| US09726722B1 |
Systems and methods for automatic test pattern generation for integrated circuit technologies
Systems and methods are provided for an integrated circuit system. A plurality of separate integrated circuit dies are coupled together to form an integrated circuit package, a first integrated circuit die including an input and a last integrated circuit die including an output, ones of the plurality of integrated circuit dies including a testing circuit associated with a corresponding integrated circuit die. The testing circuit includes a testing path for testing functionality of the corresponding integrated circuit die, a bypass path bypassing the testing path, and control circuitry for selecting between an output of the testing path and an output of the bypass path, the control circuitry being configured to select the output of the testing path or the output of the bypass path and to pass the selected output to a subsequent integrated circuit die among the plurality of coupled circuit dies. |
| US09726713B2 |
Testing method and testing system for semiconductor element
A testing method and testing system for a semiconductor element are provided. The method includes following steps. A level of a testing electrostatic discharge (ESD) voltage is determined. A plurality of sample components is provided. The testing ESD voltage is imposed on the sample components for testing ESD decay rates of the sample components. ESD withstand voltages of the sample components are detected. The relation between the ESD withstand voltages and the electrostatic discharge rates are recorded to a database. The testing ESD voltage is imposed on the semiconductor element for testing an ESD decay rate of the semiconductor element. The database is looked up according to the ESD decay rate of the semiconductor element to determine an ESD withstand voltage of the semiconductor element. |
| US09726706B1 |
Systems and methods for detecting turn-to-turn faults in windings
System and method for detecting turn-to-turn faults in one or more windings of various objects are provided. In one implementation, a fault detector receives a set of current measurements associated with a transformer and uses these measurements to execute a procedure for detecting a turn-to-turn fault in the transformer. The procedure can include dividing a steady-state differential current value by a steady-state voltage value to obtain one or more compensating factors, determining a magnetizing current amplitude indicator by multiplying the steady-state voltage value by the one or more compensating factors, determining a compensated differential current value by combining the steady-state differential current value with a modifier value that incorporates the magnetizing current amplitude indicator, comparing the compensated differential current value against a threshold value, and declaring an occurrence of the turn-to-turn fault in the transformer when the compensated differential current value exceeds the threshold value. |
| US09726704B2 |
Radiation measurement system and method with synchronous high speed tracking laser based position measurement
An Antenna measurement system incorporating high speed tracking laser-based global positioning capture synchronized with radio frequency (RF) measurements. A high speed tracking laser is used for collecting RF probe position data synchronously with corresponding near-field RF measurements. The probe may be moved across an arbitrary surface surrounding or adjacent to a device under test (DUT); however, it is not necessary for the probe position to be perfectly coincident with the surface, or any of the discrete points which make up the surface. Here, the probe position is determined relative to a global positioning coordinate system which is defined by a set of monuments which are in known positions relative to the global positioning coordinate system, and not the DUT. Any difference between the actual position of the probe, in the global position coordinate system, and a given one of the discrete measuring points, in the global position coordinate system, on the surface surrounding or adjacent to the DUT can be accounted for during post processing, thus eliminating the need for advanced or intermittent calibration to achieve precise near-field measurements. |
| US09726703B2 |
Device for measuring the state of polarization of an incident wave of frequency 10 GHz to 30 THz
The invention relates to a device (1) for measuring the state of polarization of an incident wave of frequency 10 GHz to 30 THz, comprising a field effect transistor (2), a reception antenna (3). According to the invention, the antenna parts (31, 33) detect a component of polarization of the wave, collinear with a direction (X) causing in the transistor (2) an alternating detection voltage (Us), the parts (32, 33) detect a component of polarization of the wave, collinear with a direction (Y) causing the appearance in the transistor (2) of an alternating detection voltage (Ud), the transistor (2) being designed to generate, as electrical detection signal (ΔU) between the source terminal (21) and the drain terminal (22), a DC detection voltage (ΔU) a part of which is determined by the state of elliptical polarization of the wave by interference in the transistor (2) between the alternating voltages (Us, Ud). |
| US09726700B2 |
Method for operation of a self-powered power sensor (SPPS) having a reservoir capacitor
Methods of operation of a self-powered power sensor (SPPS) are provided for the measurement of the likes of current, power, power factor, and other parameters related to the power consumption, at points of interest, such as circuit breakers, machines, and the like. Each SPPS is enabled to communicate its respective data, in an environment of a plurality of such apparatuses, to a management unit which may further process the data sent thereto, as well as communicate back to the SPPS for the purpose of synchronization of, for example, clocks of the SPPS and the management unit. |
| US09726699B2 |
Disaggregation apparatus for being used in a multi-group electrical network
The invention relates to a disaggregation apparatus (4) for being used in a multi-group electrical network (5), which comprises multiple electrical groups (1, 2, 3), each comprising one or more appliances (11, 12, 13, 21, 22, 23, 31, 32, 33). A determination unit (7) determines an electrical group (1, 2, 3) comprising an appliance, of which an operational state has been changed, based on first changes in mains voltages (V1, V2, V3) measured while the operational state change occurs, second and third changes in the mains voltages (V1, V2, V3) measured while switchable loads (1n, 2n, 3n) are switched, and the resistances (R1n, R2n, R3n) of the switchable loads (1n, 2n, 3n). Thus, a misdetection due to an operational state change of an appliance in another electrical group may be avoided and the accuracy of disaggregation may be improved in a multi-group electrical network (5). |
| US09726697B2 |
Coupled inductor current sensing apparatus and systems
A voltage proportional to a sum of currents flowing though first and second coupled inductors is developed across a first capacitor common to first and second series RC networks if the RC networks are time constant-matched to the inductors. The first and second inductors are coupled between a first and second switched drive phase input terminal, respectively, and an apparatus output terminal. The first and second RC networks are coupled in parallel with the first and second inductor, respectively. Inverting and non-inverting inputs of an amplifier are coupled to junctions of third and fourth time constant-matched series RC networks coupled in parallel with the first and second inductors, respectively. The amplifier subtracts voltages sensed at the junctions to generate a difference signal proportional to a magnitude difference of the currents flowing through the inductors. |
| US09726695B2 |
Current transducer with integrated primary conductor bar
An electrical current transducer is disclosed including a primary conductor bar for carrying the current to be measured, a magnetic core comprising a magnetic circuit gap, a magnetic field sensor having a circuit board and a magnetic field detector positioned in the magnetic circuit gap, and an insulating housing surrounding the magnetic core and magnetic field sensor. The primary conductor bar has connection terminal ends extending outside of the housing configured for connection to an external primary conductor. The primary conductor bar further includes a core passage section having a reduced width in comparison to the connection terminal ends extending outside of the housing thereby providing an indent within which the magnetic field detector is positioned such that a central passage of the magnetic core has a width less than the width of the primary conductor connection ends. The insulating housing comprises a main housing portion overmolded around the core passage section of the primary conductor bar, the main housing portion comprising a magnetic field sensor receiving slot configured to allow slideable insertion of the magnetic field sensor into the primary conductor bar indent for positioning in the magnetic circuit gap. |
| US09726694B2 |
Test systems with a probe apparatus and index mechanism
A probe apparatus has probe wires with a contact pattern on one side. The contact pattern is for contacting a respective contact pattern on another test equipment or component, such as a circuit board. The probe wires have tips that probe a device desired for testing. Signals are transmitted through the probe wires from the probe card, for example, through a circuit board to other diagnostic equipment. The contact of the probe card with the circuit board allows signals to be transferred through the probe wires to the other diagnostic equipment. On another side of the probe card is a connector structure. The connector structure includes a retainer that can allow the probe card to be replaced from a test system, such as allowing it to be connected and disconnected from a holder. |
| US09726693B2 |
Probe member for pogo pin
Provided is a probe member for a pogo pin, which is used for testing a semiconductor device, and at least a portion of which is inserted into a cylindrical body to be supported by an elastic member and an upper end of which contacts a terminal of the semiconductor device. |
| US09726692B2 |
Contactor and probe using same
A contactor including a bellows body, a fixed portion connected to one end of the bellows body, and a movable portion connected to the other end of the bellows body, where the bellows body, the fixed portion and the movable portion are integrally molded by electroforming, and the movable portion is configured to be depressed to compress the bellows body, so that adjacent arc portions of the bellows body are brought into contact with each other to cause a short circuit. |
| US09726687B2 |
System and method for processing of biological tissue samples
The present disclosure provides an automated system for processing of tissue. The system comprises a plurality of containers for storing at least one of tissue samples, buffer solutions, enzymes and other reagents, tissue processing container for processing of the tissue, and a robotic assembly coupled to the tissue processing container. The robotic assembly is configured to: carry the tissue processing container towards each of the plurality of containers, and align an inlet port of the tissue processing container with an outlet port of each of the plurality of containers for collecting the liquids, and moves the tissue processing container in multiple-planes to perform at least one of the washing processes, digestion process, phase separation process and combination thereof. The system also comprises of a control unit interfaced with the robotic assembly for controlling operations of the robotic assembly while processing the tissue. |
| US09726685B2 |
Microfluidic device for simultaneously conducting multiple analyses
Provided is a rotatable microfluidic device for conducting simultaneously two or more assays. The device includes a platform which can be rotated, a first unit which is disposed at one portion of the platform and detects a target material from a sample using surface on which a capture probe selectively binds to the target material is attached, and a second unit which is disposed at another portion of the platform and detects a target material included in the sample by a different reaction from the reaction conducted in the first unit. |
| US09726674B2 |
PIIINP neo-epitope assay
Provided is a monoclonal antibody specifically reactive with a C-terminal neo-epitope of PIIINP comprised in a C-terminal amino acid sequence CPTGXQNYSP-COOH (SEQ ID NO: 4) in which X is Gly or Pro, and where the monoclonal antibody does not recognize or bind an elongated version of the C-terminal amino acid sequence CPTGXQNYSPQZ-COOH (SEQ ID NO: 5), in which Z is absent or is one or more amino acids of the sequence of collagen type III. Also provided is a method of immunoassay for detecting in a biological sample the C-terminal neo-epitope of PIIINP generated by N-protease cleavage of intact type III procollagen, by contacting the sample with the monoclonal antibody, and determining the amount of binding of the antibody. |
| US09726671B2 |
Method of discerning substitution of carbohydrate esters
A method of testing for discerning substitution of carbohydrate ester includes the step of providing a predetermined amount of a solution. Further, the method also includes adding ammonium hydroxide and sodium borohydride to the solution. The method also includes the step of transferring the solution to an ammonium ion exchange cartridge and collecting the eluate from the cartridge. Also included in the method is the step of analyzing the sample in a mass spectrometer to produce a mass spectrum. Further, the method includes calculating the amu of phosphate and sulfate substitution of the ion and comparing it to the actual amu of the found ion. |
| US09726668B2 |
Signatures and determinants for diagnosing infections and methods of use thereof
Antibiotics (Abx) are the world's most misused drugs. Antibiotics misuse occurs when the drug is administered in case of a non-bacterial infection (such as a viral infection) for which it is ineffective. Overall, it is estimated that 40-70% of the worldwide Abx courses are mis-prescribed. The financial and health consequences of Abx over-prescription include the direct cost of the drugs, as well as the indirect costs of their side effects, which are estimated at >$15 billion annually. Furthermore, over-prescription directly causes the emergence of Abx-resistant strains of bacteria, which are recognized as one of the major threats to public health today. This generates an immediate need for reliable diagnostics to assist physicians in correct Abx prescription, especially at the point-of-care (POC) where most Abx are prescribed. Accordingly, some aspects of the present invention provide methods using biomarkers for rapidly detecting the source of infection and administrating the appropriate treatment. |
| US09726666B2 |
Diagnosing and treating inflammatory diseases
A method of diagnosing, monitoring progression of, or monitoring treatment of inflammatory bowel disease comprises determining the levels of CD14+HLA-DRhi monocytes or monocytes expressing CCR7 or CCR9 or both CCR7 and CCR9 in a sample obtained from a subject, wherein high levels of CD14+HLA-DRhi monocytes or monocytes expressing CCR7 or CCR9 or both CCR7 and CCR9, or increased levels of CD14+HLA-DRhi monocytes or monocytes expressing CCR7 or CCR9 or both CCR7 and CCR9 compared to control, indicate the presence or progression of inflammatory bowel disease. Similar methods for diagnosing irritable bowel syndrome are also described. Various companion therapeutic methods and useful binding reagents are also described. |
| US09726665B2 |
Self-sensing array of microcantilevers for chemical detection
The invention provides a chemical detection system for detecting at least one target chemical species, including a self-sensed cantilevered probe array having a plurality of self-sensed cantilevered probes, at least one chemical-sensitive coating material applied to at least one cantilevered probe in the cantilevered probe array, and an interface circuit that is coupled to the cantilevered probe array. At least one cantilevered probe in the cantilevered probe array exhibits a shifted cantilevered probe response when the cantilevered probe array is exposed to the target chemical species and the interface circuit actuates the cantilevered probe. A handheld chemical detection system and a method of operation are also disclosed. |
| US09726664B2 |
Animal model for diabetic complications
The invention relates to the surprising find that low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice (LDLr−/−) mice when fed with high energy diets produce controllable and consistent diabetic complications, especially renal damage, similar to the human pathophysiology and biological response. The invention thus comprises a method for discovering a preventive or therapeutic regimen for the prevention or treatment of diabetic micro- or macrovascular complications, comprising the steps of: a. feeding LDLr−/− mice, which have not been treated with streptozotocin, with a high energy diet; b. before, during and/or after this diet treating the mice with the preventive or therapeutic regimen; c. checking whether any change in the micro- or macrovascular system of the animal occurs. Specifically in such a method renal damage is assessed. Also use of said mice fed with a high energy diet for studying the diabetic micro- and macrovascular complications is part of the invention. |
| US09726661B2 |
Simultaneous detection of cannibalism and senescence as prognostic marker for cancer
The present inventors show that cannibal cells can undergo senescence after entosis in vivo and that the tumor suppressive protein p53 act as a repressor of this phenomenon. They therefore propose new tools to study the molecular pathways involved in the cannibalism process, for example by measuring the expression levels of p53 or splice variants thereof (such as Δ133TP53, TP53β, TP53γ or Δ40TP53), the release of extracellular ATP or purinergic P2Y2 receptor activity. The present inventors also demonstrated that the detection of senescent cannibal cells in breast adenocarcinoma obtained from patients treated with neo-adjuvant therapy positively correlates with good patient's response to treatment. Altogether, these results provide the first evidence that detection of cellular cannibalism and senescence simultaneously in tumors helps for the diagnosis of disease outcomes and for the prediction of treatment efficiency against cancer diseases. |
| US09726658B2 |
Display device, display method, and display program used in measurement system
A display device, a display method, and a display program used in a measurement system capable of facilitating positioning in a measurement information image by displaying an IP (imaging plate) image having measurement information for β+ rays contained in blood to be measured and appending a guide G based on design information of a disc housing the blood to an IP image and displaying the image. The guide G is appended to an IP image in which a guide is not originally reflected, which makes it possible to visually discern a reference position (for example, the central position of the disc) in the IP image based on design information. As a result, it is possible to facilitate positioning in the IP image based on the guide G indicating the reference position (central position of the disc). |
| US09726655B2 |
Selective ion chemistry for nitrate detection
The present disclosure is directed to methods and systems for detecting a chemical substance. The methods and systems include mixing a sample of a substance of interest with an additive and then producing an adduct using an ionization source. The systems and methods further include performing a spectrometric analysis of the adduct and identifying the sample using comparative spectrometric data. |
| US09726653B2 |
Chemical detector
A chemical detector is provided and includes a chemical detector device and a chemical agent aerosol vaporizer assembly. The chemical agent aerosol vaporizer assembly includes a vaporizer fluidly interposed between an inlet and an outlet and is configured to receive via the inlet a chemical agent aerosol in the vaporizer wherein the chemical agent aerosol is smeared against a fluted surface that is passivated against adsorption and vaporized. The vaporized chemical agent aerosol is subsequently output to the chemical detector device via the outlet. |
| US09726651B2 |
Double-sided diaphragm micro gas-preconcentrator with a back-on-face configuration
A double-sided diaphragm micro gas-preconcentrator has a micro-gas chamber which is formed by stacking an upper silicon substrate with a lower silicon substrate with a back-on-face configuration. One or more suspended membranes are provided on every silicon substrate. The silicon where the suspended membrane is provided is completely removed for forming a cavity. A thin-film heater is deposited on every suspended membrane. A sorptive film is coated on an inner wall of every suspended membrane. Thus, the upper and lower sides of the preconcentrator in the present invention are suspended membranes, which improve the area of the sorptive film on the diaphragm. As a result, the preconcentrating factor is improved while keeping the small heat capacity, fast heating rate, and low power consumption features of the planar diaphragm preconcentrator. |
| US09726645B2 |
Vibration detection apparatus and vibration detection method
A vibration detection apparatus includes a ring laser resonator, a fiber Bragg grating and a detection system. The ring laser resonator generates a laser beam propagating a ring shaped optical path. The fiber Bragg grating is disposed in the ring laser resonator such that the laser beam enters the grating, and has a transmittance distribution characteristic of transmitted light in a wavelength direction, which changes in accordance with vibration of an object. The detection system detects the vibration based on the transmitted light through the fiber Bragg grating. |
| US09726644B2 |
Nondestructive inspection using acousto-optics
A method and apparatus for inspecting an object. The apparatus comprises a vibration generator and an acousto-optical sensor. The vibration generator is positioned relative to a surface of an object. The vibration generator excites the object at a location on the object such that the portion of the object vibrates. The acousto-optical sensor is coupled to the surface of the portion of the object. The acousto-optical sensor detects a vibratory response generated by the portion of the object in response to excitation of the portion of the object and generates an image of the portion of the object based on the vibratory response. |
| US09726643B2 |
Gate valve real time health monitoring system, apparatus, program code and related methods
Systems, apparatus, and program code, and methods for monitoring the health and other conditions of the valve, are provided. An exemplary system for monitoring the condition of the gate valve includes a logic module configured to perform the operations of receiving sensor data providing an acoustic emission, vibration, and/or stream level signature and determining the level of lubricity, level of friction, level of surface degradation, and leakage rate at a gate-valve seat interface. An exemplary method for monitoring the condition of the gate valve includes receiving sensor data providing an acoustic emission, vibration, and/or stream level signature and determining the level of lubricity, level of friction, level of surface degradation, and leakage rate at a gate-valve seat interface. |
| US09726641B2 |
System and method of correcting a non-concentric ultrasonic iris inspection result
Disclosed is an ultrasonic IRIS inspection system and a method of providing automatically compensated concentric B-scans by means of curve-fitting the unadjusted tube boundaries from inspection data, and from the curve fitted theoretical circle, using non-linear regression analysis to determine an adjusted center. The off-center distance between the adjust center and the misaligned center is then used to produce concentric inspection result by compensating the unadjusted inspection result with the off-center distance. |
| US09726639B1 |
Apparatus for detecting magnetic flux leakage and methods of making and using same
An apparatus and method for detecting magnetic flux leakage in an object. The apparatus includes a frame assembly, a sensor bar and a U shaped magnetic circuit consisting of first and second magnet and steel pieces 44, 46 and 42 connecting the magnets. The sensor bar is connected to the frame assembly and includes a plurality of coils and at least one sensor operatively connected to at least one of the plurality of coils. The first magnet and the second magnets are connected steel pieces and to the frame assembly. They form a U shaped magnetic circuit which is completed by the steel plate being inspected. The sensor bar is placed between the tips of the U shaped magnetic circuit. |
| US09726637B2 |
Gas analyzer with fuel cell
The invention relates to gas analyzers, especially mobile ion mobility spectrometers or mass spectrometers which are operated at atmospheric pressure to detect dangerous substances. The invention uses a fuel cell to generate the electric operating power of the gas analyzer, and the waste heat from the fuel cell is used to regulate the temperature of modules of the gas analyzer. |
| US09726635B2 |
Hydrogen quality monitor
A pair of fuel cells are configured as a hydrogen purity monitor. A first cell, acting as a reference cell, is configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxidant and has a first fuel inlet configured to receive hydrogen from a first hydrogen source. A second fuel cell, acting as a test cell, is configured to generate electrical current from the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxidant and has a second fuel inlet configured to receive hydrogen from a second hydrogen source. A control system is configured to apply an electrical load to each fuel cell and determine an electrical output of each fuel cell. The control system has a comparator for comparing the electrical outputs of the first and second fuel cells and a purity monitor output configured to give an indication of hydrogen purity based on an output of the comparator. |
| US09726622B2 |
Non-destructive inspection device
An accurate non-destructive inspection of a moving subject is conducted using a radiation source unit that irradiates radioactive rays toward gratings. Each grating includes a plurality of grating members. A radioactive ray detector unit detects the radioactive rays diffracted by the plurality of grating members. The plurality of grating members are arranged with a predetermined phase difference such that moiré pattern images respectively formed by the radioactive rays transmitted through first to third partial areas have a phase difference between the moiré pattern images. |
| US09726619B2 |
Optimization of the source firing pattern for X-ray scanning systems
The present application discloses a computed tomography system having non-rotating X-ray sources that are programmed to optimize the source firing pattern. In one embodiment, the CT system is a fast cone-beam CT scanner which uses a fixed ring of multiple sources and fixed rings of detectors in an offset geometry. It should be appreciated that the source firing pattern is effectuated by a controller, which implements methods to determine a source firing pattern that are adapted to geometries where the X-ray sources and detector geometry are offset. |
| US09726616B2 |
Machine for weaving or winding a fiber texture and enabling anomalies to be inspected by image analysis
A machine for weaving or winding a fiber preform on a mandrel having an axis of rotation that is substantially horizontal and that serves to receive the preform, the machine having a plurality of cameras pointing towards the underside of the fiber preform in order to scan the hidden face of the fiber preform and acquire images of the hidden face; an image analysis module for processing these images of the hidden face of the fiber preform in a plurality of adjacent scan windows, and for extracting weaving patterns therefrom and comparing them with reference weaving patterns previously stored in the module; a motor for driving the mandrel in rotation about its axis of rotation; and a control unit for stopping rotation of the mandrel if the result of the comparison reveals a difference of appearance between the two weaving patterns. |
| US09726606B2 |
Detection device
A detection device comprises a chip holder, a light source, a light-guide rod, a wavelength separation filter, and an optical sensor. Given the relationship between the angle of incidence and light intensity of fluorescence on a light reception surface of the optical sensor, the optical transmittance of the wavelength separation filter at the dominant wavelength of the rays of fluorescence incident on the light reception surface at a peak angle of incidence at which the light intensity is the highest is greater than the optical transmittance of the wavelength separation filter at the dominant wavelength of the rays of excitation light incident on the light reception surface at the peak angle of incidence and is higher than the optical transmittance of the wavelength separation filter at the dominant wavelength of the rays of fluorescence incident on the light reception surface at an angle of incidence of 0 DEG. |
| US09726602B2 |
Method for observing biological species
A method for observing biological species on a culture medium contained in a container having at least one translucent face, the method including the steps of: a) directing a light beam onto one portion of the translucent face, so as to define at least one illuminated region and at least one non-illuminated region of the face; and b) acquiring an image of a portion of the surface of the culture medium illuminated by the light beam, the acquisition being carried out through at least one of the non-illuminated regions of the translucent face and along an optical acquisition axis forming a non-zero angle (a) with the direction of propagation of the light beam. |
| US09726596B2 |
Configurational chirality based separation
A method of determining the relative concentrations of enantiomeric forms of a compound in an enantiomeric mixture includes combining the enantiomeric mixture with carbon nanotubes or graphene to form a carbon-enantiomer mixture, exposing the mixture to a monochromatic polarized light, and analyzing reflected polarized light from the mixture using a differential analyzer. |
| US09726595B2 |
Measurement apparatus
A measurement apparatus includes a sample stage, an excitation unit, a light receiving unit, a stimulant applying nozzle, and a spray nozzle in a measurement space inside a body case, and also includes a heating unit and a gas supplying unit. The body case includes an inner case surrounding the measurement space, and an outer case surrounding the inner case to shield the measurement space from light from the outside and seal the measurement space. The heating unit is disposed between the inner case and the outer case and adjusts temperature in the measurement space through the inner case. The gas supplying unit supplies gas having controlled temperature and humidity into the measurement space and adjusts temperature and humidity in the measurement space. |
| US09726588B2 |
Flow control in a microfluidic device
This invention relates to a method of inducing fluid flow in a passive capillarity filled microfluidic device involving the use of a dual flow control reagent system, wherein the first flow control reagent is a surfactant which reduces surface tension of an aqueous fluid sample and the second flow control reagent is a viscosity enhancer. |
| US09726586B2 |
Strength testing of a flatwise material coupon
One example of the present disclosure relates to a coupon. The coupon includes a first surface with a first circular channel and a second surface opposite and parallel to the first surface. The second surface is spaced a distance D0 from the first surface and includes a second circular channel concentric with the first circular channel. The coupon also includes a toroidal portion between the first circular channel and the second circular channel. The toroidal portion includes a rectangular sectional portion. |
| US09726585B2 |
Container assembly and associated method
Container assembly including a container for storing a tissue sample and a cover adapted to engage with the container. The cover includes: a top member having a receptacle, a seal for sealing off the receptacle, a puncturing member for breaking the seal by displacement of the puncturing member. The container assembly has a first and a second position, wherein in the first position the container is isolated from the receptacle, and in the second position fluid communication is provided between the receptacle and the container. The container assembly includes a separator positioned between the seal and the bottom of the container, and the separator is provided with at least one aperture adapted to provide a fluid passage between the receptacle and the container. |
| US09726582B2 |
Sample introduction system
A sample port system/device associated with a fluid collection device is provided and is configured to receive fluid-containing devices of varying diameters. A method of improving the work flow and safety involved in acquiring and/or testing fluid samples using such sample port system/device is also provided. |
| US09726576B2 |
Equipment monitoring system
The invention concerns an asset monitoring system (10) having a monitoring unit 8 and a plurality of sensors (4) onboard the asset. The sensors (4) are arranged to measure a plurality of operational variables for the asset in use and the monitoring unit (8) is arranged to receive operational variable measurements output from the sensors. The monitoring unit is also arranged to determine a current value of a sensor characteristic (ZA1; ZB1) for each sensor and to compare the current sensor characteristic value with a predetermined sensor characteristic value in order to determine automatically whether a change of one or more sensors has occurred between instances of operation. |
| US09726574B2 |
Zeroing method and zeroing device for optical time-domain reflectometer
A zeroing method and zeroing device for an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) are disclosed. The zeroing method includes: before starting the optical time-domain reflectometer, when a laser device is in an off state, sending a zeroing signal; and performing zeroing processing according to the zeroing signal. In the embodiments of the present invention, the feedback zeroing can be performed on a receiving circuit by utilizing the idle time prior to a test or during the test, thus the influence of an offset voltage is reduced, and a problem of operational-amplifier zero drift also can be solved in the meantime, which improves a detectability of the OTDR, and overcomes a disadvantage that a manual zeroing method is not intelligent and a measured waveform introduced in an automatic zeroing method is bad. |
| US09726572B2 |
Method and system for identification of a given geometrical feature of an optical component
A method and system for identifying a given geometrical feature of an optical component or semi-finished ophthalmic lens blank, where an optical component is made of an organic material that can emit light at an emission wavelength λe when being lighten at an illumination wavelength λi different from the emission wavelength λe, a surface of the optical component is illuminated with an incident light beam including at least light at the illumination wavelength but devoid from light at the emission wavelength, light emitted at the emission wavelength by the illuminated surface is collected to build an image of the surface, and the surface image is processed to apply metrics to compare the image with reference data specific to the given geometrical feature. |
| US09726571B2 |
Pointing axis estimation device
A pointing axis estimation apparatus capable of removing pointing axis variations caused by factors other than pointing axis variations of a telescope, thereby estimating true pointing axis variations of the telescope. The pointing axis estimation apparatus includes: a laser light source-unit attitude detector for calculating translational and rotational displacements of a laser light source unit; an optical axis detection-unit attitude detector for calculating translational and rotational displacements of an optical axis detection unit; a pointing axis calculator for calculating a pointing axis based on information from an optical axis variation detector; and a pointing axis variation estimator for calculating a true pointing axis variation of a telescope based on displacement data output from the detectors and the calculator. |
| US09726566B2 |
Vacuum pressure gauge
A vacuum pressure gauge is described herein. One apparatus includes an ion trap configured to trap antimatter therein in a vacuum chamber, and a controller configured to determine a lifetime of the antimatter trapped in the ion trap and determine a pressure in the vacuum chamber based, at least in part, on the determined lifetime of the antimatter. |
| US09726565B2 |
Support unit for a circuit board in a sensor unit and corresponding sensor unit
A support unit for a circuit board in a sensor unit comprises a main body that defines an outer contour and includes a first joining geometry and a second joining geometry. The first joining geometry is configured to at least one of guide and electrically contact external contact elements, and includes contact receiving pockets configured to guide the external contact elements, and at least one reinforcement web that separates two adjacent contact receiving pockets. The second joining geometry is configured to join the support unit to the circuit board. The first joining geometry defines at least in part an external interface via which at least one electrical output signal of the circuit board is tapped. |
| US09726559B2 |
Load cell for weight measurement
The invention relates to a load cell for weight measurement with a load beam which has an overload protection.In order to achieve a cost-effective manufacture, it is provided that the overload protection has a bar, running parallel to the center plane of the load beam, which freely engages in a recess on the movable force application side of the load beam, with the result that there is an upper and a lower air gap between the bar and the force application side. In the case of an overload, the upper or the lower air gap is bridged and the force application side comes to rest against the bar, with the result that no further movement of the force application side relative to the stationary side of the load cell is possible. |
| US09726557B2 |
Magnetoelastic strain sensor
A strain sensor having an active area that includes a magnetoelastic resonator and spring configured so that the spring undergoes a greater amount of strain than the resonator when the sensor is under load. The sensor is anchored at opposite ends of the active area to a substrate for which strain is to be measured. An interrogating coil is used for wireless sensor readout. A biasing magnet may be included to provide a desired sensor response for the particular application of the sensor. The strain sensor may be implemented as a differential strain sensor that includes a second, strain-independent reference resonator. |
| US09726554B1 |
Method and circuitry to determine temperature and/or state of health of a battery/cell
Techniques and circuitry, in one embodiment, determine a temperature of a battery by applying a calibration packet to the battery's terminals and at the battery's first SOC, wherein the calibration packet includes a first pulse (charge or discharge) which temporally precedes a rest period. In one embodiment, measurement circuitry measures a first terminal voltage at a time immediately prior to or at a beginning of the first pulse of the calibration packet, and a second terminal voltage, in response to the calibration packet, at a time during the partial relaxation time period of a battery. Control circuitry determines a partial relaxation time voltage (VPRT) at the battery's first SOC using the first and second terminal voltages and determines a temperature of the battery by correlating the VPRT at the first SOC to a temperature of the battery at the battery's current SOH. |
| US09726553B2 |
Optical temperature sensor and use of same
A thermometer includes a substrate; an optical resonator disposed on the substrate and including an optical resonance, the optical resonator being configured to receive a resonant frequency corresponding to the optical resonance; and a waveguide disposed on the substrate proximate to the optical resonator to receive input light, to communicate the resonant frequency to the optical resonator, and to transmit output light; wherein an aperture is interposed between: the substrate and the optical resonator, the substrate and the waveguide, or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing, and the thermometer is configured to change the optical resonance in response to a change in temperature of the optical resonator. |
| US09726552B2 |
Temperature compensated piezoelectric oscilator device package wherein the base of the package consists of a multilayer thermistor
Provided is a piezoelectric device capable of improving measurement precision of a temperature of a piezoelectric element. A piezoelectric device (1) includes a package (2) including a housing member (4) having a thermistor substrate (3) and a frame (7) provided to project from a first main surface (3a) of the thermistor substrate (3) and in which a housing part (6) is formed by the first main surface (3a) and the frame (7) and a lid (9) provided on the frame (7) to cover a space (5) of the housing part (6), and a piezoelectric vibration element (5) provided on the first main surface (3a) of the thermistor substrate (3) in the housing part (6), wherein the thermistor substrate (3) is a multilayer negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor. |
| US09726550B2 |
Digital thermometer of antimicrobial copper
Digital Thermometer of antimicrobial copper, meant for medical use, consisting externally of the body (1), the battery cover that is the removable part through which the battery is inserted into the thermometer (2), the power button i.e. ON-OFF button (3), the display (4) and the tip, that is the sensor for measuring temperature (5) and is characterized by the fact that the outer surface of these components except of the display, is made of antimicrobial copper, or bears antimicrobial copper.Due to the antimicrobial-bacteriostatic properties of copper and its alloys with antimicrobial properties, it is achieved naturally—without any further interference, i.e. without disinfectants use—the neutralization of pathogenic microbes that infest the thermometer body, therefore it is achieved limitation of their further dispersion. |
| US09726546B2 |
Distributed optical sensing with two-step evaluation
According to an embodiment there is provided a distributed optical sensing apparatus for determining of a primary quantity along a waveguide, the distributed optical sensing apparatus comprising: an electromagnetic radiation source adapted for coupling electromagnetic radiation into the waveguide to thereby generate in the waveguide (e.g. by interaction with the waveguide) a first response radiation and a different second response radiation; a detector device adapted for providing a first measurement signal indicative of the first response radiation and a second measurement signal indicative of the second response radiation; an evaluation unit adapted for deriving a secondary quantity (e.g. a loss) based on the first measurement signal and the second measurement signal; the evaluation unit being further adapted for deriving the primary quantity based on the secondary quantity and at least one of the first measurement signal and the second measurement signal. |
| US09726544B2 |
Method and system for passive tracking of moving objects
A system for detecting and tracking motion in a given area, including a first passive motion detection sensor operable for passively detecting motion in any of a first multiplicity of detection zones and, responsive thereto, for providing a first detection output signal including an indication of a first detection zone in which the motion was detected, a second passive motion detection sensor operable for passively detecting motion in any of a second multiplicity of detection zones, each of the second multiplicity of detection zones at least partially overlapping each of the first multiplicity of detection zones, and, responsive thereto, for providing a second detection output signal including an indication of a second detection zone in which the motion was detected, and a processor operable for receiving the first and second detection output signals and, responsive thereto, for providing an indication of a location of the motion. |
| US09726540B2 |
Diffractive waveguide providing structured illumination for object detection
There is provided a diffractive waveguide device comprising: a light source, at least one light detector, an SBG device comprising a multiplicity of separately switchable SBG elements sandwiched between transparent substrate to which transparent electrodes have been applied. The substrates function as a light guide. Each SBG element encodes image information to be projected on an image surface. Each SBG element when in a diffracting state diffracts light out of the light guide to form an image region on an image surface. The light detector detects light scattered from an object disposed in proximity to the image surface and illuminated by said image region. |
| US09726539B2 |
Broadband or mid-infrared fiber light sources
A white light spectroscopy system includes a super continuum light source having an input light source including semiconductor diodes to generate an input beam having a wavelength shorter than 2.5 microns. The light source includes a cladding-pumped fiber optical amplifier to receive the input beam, and a photonic crystal fiber to receive the amplified optical beam to broaden the spectral width to 100 nm or more forming an output beam in the visible wavelength range. The output beam is pulsed with a repetition rate of 1 Megahertz or higher. The system also includes a lens and/or mirror to receive the output beam, to send the output beam to a scanning stage, and to deliver the received output beam to a sample. A detection system includes dispersive optics and narrow band filters followed by one or more detectors to permit approximately simultaneous measurement of at least two wavelengths from the sample. |
| US09726538B2 |
Apparatus and method for sensing parameters using Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor and comparator
Various implementations of an apparatus for sensing one or more parameters are disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a sweeping wavelength laser configured to generate a sweeping wavelength optical signal; an optical fiber including a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) structure configured to sense a parameter, wherein the optical fiber is configured to receive the sweeping wavelength optical signal, wherein the FBG structure is configured to produce a reflected optical signal with a particular wavelength in response to the sweeping wavelength optical signal, and wherein the particular wavelength varies as a function of the parameter; a photo detector configured to generate an electrical signal based on the reflected optical signal; a comparator configured to generate a pulse based on a comparison of the electrical signal to a threshold; and a processor configured to generate an indication of the parameter based on the pulse. The comparator may be configured as a Schmitt trigger. |
| US09726534B2 |
Weighing device for piece goods
Weighing device used with piece goods, having a belt conveyor, one or more below positioned scales of rigid arrangement and a support for goods being weighed. The belt conveyor has at least two belts. The support has at least one support extension guidable through between the belts, and the belts can move toward the scale such that support extensions are guided through between the conveyor belts without moving themselves. Goods moved on the belts are laid upon the support extensions and weighed. The conveyor unit above the scale is moveable, in its entirety, towards the weighing scale. Conveyor movement end positions are damped. The conveyor is moved by a single actuator, and at least two weighing scales are used with different weighing regions. A coating installation for car exhaust gas catalyst carriers is provided with the weighing device. A method of weighing piece goods using the weighing device is provided. |
| US09726531B2 |
Estimation apparatus and method for cylinder intake air amount of internal combustion engine
Provided is a cylinder intake air amount estimation apparatus for an internal combustion engine, which is capable of highly precisely calculating a cylinder intake air amount based on an AFS intake air amount in a control system for an engine including a supercharger. A cylinder intake air amount calculation part calculates the cylinder intake air amount based on an intake opening intake air amount by using a physical model of an intake system derived based on a volume efficiency acquired by considering an intake manifold as a reference, which is a volume efficiency of air entering a cylinder from the intake manifold, a virtual intake manifold volume, and a stroke volume per cylinder, the physical model being adapted to the control system for an engine including a supercharger. |
| US09726528B2 |
Ultrasonic consumption meter with locking mechanism
An ultrasonic consumption meter includes two ultrasonic transducers for emitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, a flow channel, an electronic circuit for operating the meter, and a housing for the ultrasonic transducers and the electronic circuit. The housing is locked in position relative to the flow channel by a locking mechanism, and the flow channel has two holes for allowing the housing to get into contact with a media flowing in the flow channel. |
| US09726524B2 |
Optical position encoder
Optical position encoding mechanisms and methods for use in reimaged optical imaging systems. In one example, a reimaged optical imaging system includes an imaging detector, an optical component, and at least one light source coupled to the optical component and configured to be reimaged onto the imaging detector, wherein a position of an image of the at least one light source at the imaging detector encodes a position of the optical component relative to the imaging detector. |
| US09726523B2 |
Optical monitoring system
An optical monitoring system comprising first and second sensor arrays interrogated via first and second optical connections from an interrogator location. The system is configured such that no wavelength is carried bi-directionally in the first and second optical connections. In typical systems the optical connections comprise trunk cables from the sensor arrays to the interrogator location. |
| US09726516B2 |
Differential motion sensor
An electromechanical differential motion sensor is disposed to detect transverse motion of a first piece relative to a second piece. The sensor includes a base anchored to the first piece, a lever arm that engages the second piece, a hinge, a retention mechanism, and a fuse wire. The hinge connects the lever arm to the base, such that the lever arm rotates relative to the base when the second piece displaces laterally with respect to the first piece. The retention mechanism retains the electromechanical differential motion sensor in a closed position wherein a first jaw of the base is aligned with a second jaw of the lever arm. The fuse wire carries an electrical signal current, and extends through the jaws such that transverse motion of the second piece relative to the first piece deflects the sensor from the closed position to an open position, thereby severing the first fuse wire. |
| US09726509B1 |
Profile aware navigation
Embodiments include computer-implemented method, systems and computer program products for route planning utilizing a Global Positioning System (GPS) device to determine an accessible route of a person travelling in a vehicle. The computer-implemented method includes generating, by at least one processor of the GPS device utilizing a map database, a route and retrieving a vehicle profile identifying operable conditions of the vehicle. Information from a route condition database relating to conditions along the route is retrieved and it is determined based upon the conditions along the route and the operable conditions of the vehicle if the route is an authorized, passable route for the vehicle. In response to determining if the route is an authorized, passable route for the vehicle, the route is presented on a display screen. |
| US09726506B2 |
Display of transit features in mapping application
Some embodiments provide a mapping application that displays transit information in a map region. The mapping application identifies several transit lines for a map region. Each transit line corresponds to at least one transit vehicle route. Based on a particular zoom level of the map, the mapping application determines a subset of the transit lines to display in the map region. The mapping application displays the subset of the transit lines in the map region to emphasize the transit lines over other map features. |
| US09726504B2 |
Computing system with structure vertical-tier mechanism and method of operation thereof
A computing system includes: a control circuit configured to: determine environment measurements representing conditions measured about a building structure located at a geographic location; generate a map based on the environment measurements for mapping a tier of the building structure along a vertical direction; and a storage circuit, coupled to the control circuit, configured to store the map for representing the building structure. |
| US09726501B2 |
Path guidance system for the visually impaired
An innovative path guidance system and method has been invented that in a preferred embodiment allows visually impaired people to follow a dynamically changing path that avoids obstacles and arrive at destination with minimal intervention by a sighted guide. The disclosed invention has the leader set a track electronically, and employs but is not limited to haptic feedback and audible alerts used in combination or individually, to help the visually impaired person control his or her trajectory. The visually impaired follower can be following a leader setting the path in real time or following a path established by a guide at an earlier time and recorded. |
| US09726499B2 |
Method of determining a radius of protection associated with a navigation parameter of a hybrid inertial navigation system, and associated system
Method of determining at least one radius of protection associated with a respective navigation parameter of a hybrid inertial navigation system by Kalman filtering employing introduction of a position bias into the state model of the Kalman filter representing the uncertainty associated with the reference safe position. |
| US09726498B2 |
Combining monitoring sensor measurements and system signals to determine device context
A processing apparatus including one or more processors and memory obtains one or more sensor measurements generated by one or more monitoring sensors of one or more devices, including one or more monitoring sensor measurements from a respective monitoring sensor of a respective device and obtains one or more system signals including a respective system signal corresponding to current operation of the respective device. The processing apparatus determines device context information for the respective device based on the one or more sensor measurements and the one or more system signals and adjusts operation of the device in accordance with the device context information. |
| US09726497B1 |
System and method for identifying heading of a moving vehicle using accelerometer data
A method for determining a yaw angle estimate or vehicle heading direction is presented. A potential range of yaw angles is generated based on a plurality of primary telematics data. One or more yaw angle estimates are generated from the potential range of yaw angles. A driving pattern is determined based on at least one of the yaw angle estimates. The primary telematics data is a plurality of telematics data originated from a client computing device. The effects of gravity have been removed from the plurality of telematics data in a first primary movement window. |
| US09726495B1 |
Method, apparatus and computer program product for sharing GPS navigation information
A host application on a host computer system receives annotations made by drivers of respective navigation information displayed to the drivers by GPS devices in vehicles of the respective drivers. The host application saves the annotated navigation information for the respective drivers on a computer readable memory accessible by the host application. The host application receives a request from a first one of the drivers for annotated navigation information made by one or more of the other drivers. Responsive to the request, the host application selects one or more items of the saved annotated navigation information. The host application sends the selected one or more items of the saved annotated navigation information to the GPS device of the first one of the drivers. |
| US09726485B2 |
Method of obtaining geographically related images using a vehicle
The method employs a computer interconnected with a GPS transceiver and a distance measurement means and operatively interconnected with a digital camera, all provided on a moving vehicle, in order to acquire a plurality of geographic location related images. A first geographic position is obtained from the GPS transceiver and a plurality of distance measurements are then received before a second geographic position is taken. A photo request is generated after a pre-determined distance has been traveled and is transmitted to the digital camera. The camera takes a photo based on the request and the photos, photo requests, first and second positions and distance measurements are stored for post-processing. The post-processing determines a path traveled by the vehicle using the positions and distance measurements and assigns an accurate geographic location and orientation to each photo. The method is useful in building a database of geographically related images. |
| US09726480B2 |
Recognition method for a battery cell package and structure thereof
A recognition method for a battery cell package and a structure thereof includes: a) providing a plurality of battery cells arranged in a stack or in a wrapped roll; b) providing a tape, an isolation film or an electrode slat having a shape recognition structure; c) providing a packaging bag; d) placing the tape, the isolation film or the electrode slat at an outer layer of the battery cells; and e) placing the plurality of battery cells into the packaging bag and drawing an air out of the packaging bag such that an outer surface of the packaging bag reveals the shape recognition structure of the tape, the isolation film or the electrode slat. Therefore, the specifications and models of the battery cell packages can be determined with ease to facilitate the categorization and storage of the battery cell packages. |
| US09726478B2 |
Device for acquisition and measurement of geometric data of at least one motif associated with a spectacle frame glass and associated method
This data acquisition and measuring device for acquisition and measurement of geometric data for at least one motif associated with a glass for a spectacle frame, for the manufacture of ophthalmic lenses, similar or complementary to the glass, comprises a support capable of holding the glass, an illuminator for illuminating this support, a video imaging system for capturing images oriented towards the support and capable of capturing at least two images of the contour of the glass placed on the support, and a signal analyzer and processor that receive at the input each image captured by the video imaging system. The analyzer and processor is capable of measuring the distance from at least one point of the form contour of the glass to a reference plane based on said images. |
| US09726471B1 |
Position sensor and variable capacitor assembly thereof
A position sensor includes a variable capacitor assembly and a circuit board. The variable capacitor assembly includes a baseboard and a dielectric coupling element. The baseboard includes a baseboard body, a grounding electrode and two power electrodes. The grounding electrode is disposed nearby one side of the baseboard body. The two power electrodes are disposed separately near the other side of the baseboard body. The dielectric coupling element is spaced with the two power electrodes and the grounding electrode, and operable to be moved along a moving path. A covering condition is varied when the dielectric coupling element is operated to move along the moving path. When a power is alternatively applied to the power electrodes, a pair of capacitance values between the grounding electrode and the power electrodes is varied with the covering condition to accordingly determine a relative position of the coupling element along the moving path. |
| US09726465B1 |
Tip for archery arrows
An aerodynamic tip for an archery arrow includes a nipple centered on the face of the tip and surrounded by projections at the outer diameter. Air striking the rounded ends of the projections is diverted toward the rounded end of the nipple. As the air is diverted by the nipple it flows into radial grooves along the side of the body of the tip, where it passes into the atmosphere, minimizing air resistance encountered by the tip as it traverses its flight path. On contact, the energy and mass is concentrated to the projections, causing immediate penetration of the target by the front portion of the tip, with the remainder of the tip following. After impact, the radial grooves channel blood away from the tip as it penetrates the flesh of the target, allowing the arrow to completely travel through the target, achieving a “through and through” shot. |
| US09726464B2 |
Projectile arresting module and projectile arresting arrangement
The invention shows a projectile arresting module (1) comprising a base frame (3), partition walls (9), stopping material (11) positioned between the partition walls (9) and a pressure resisting wall (19). The pressure resisting wall (19) comprises a tight row (25, 27) of vertical hollow sections (15). The inventions also shows a projectile arresting arrangement (100, 200, 300) comprising at least two projectile arresting modules (1), which at least two projectile arresting modules (1) are grouped together, thereby forming an I-shape, L-shape, U-shape, C-shape, F-shape, T-shape or E-shape. |
| US09726463B2 |
Multichannel controller for target shooting range
An aspect of the disclosure relates to a multichannel controller for controlling a target in a target system. In one embodiment, a multichannel controller is configured to control a target system and includes a user input interface that receives a user input for the multichannel controller, wherein the user input is a command to control one or more targets in the target system and a processor that generates the command to send to the one or more targets in the target system and a command translation unit that relays the command to the one or more targets, wherein the command comprises a motion sequence. |
| US09726461B2 |
ROV terrain disruptor
A terrain disruption device includes an air or gas flow generation device mounted on a remote operated vehicle having an extendible arm, wherein the air or gas flow generation device includes an elongate (optionally detachable) ducting arrangement to direct the air or gas flow and an optional nozzle. The air or gas flow generation device and/or the elongate ducting arrangement may be mounted on the extendible arm. Preferably, the air or gas flow generation device is powered by a fan, more preferably an electric ducted fan. |
| US09726457B2 |
Carrying case for police or military baton
A holster system including an elongated backer plate having a plurality of slots, a hinge that pivotally connects a first end of the backer plate to a first end of the cover plate, a resilient lock that releasably connects a second end of the backer plate to the second of the cover plate, an adjustable spacer located between the backer plate and cover plate, the cover plate, the hinge and resilient lock is adapted to accept a range of different sizes of belts worn by a human user and wherein the adjustable spacer may be inserted into any of the plurality of slots to accommodate the different sizes of belts and a police or military holster rotatably attached to the backing plate. |
| US09726455B2 |
Personal self-defense device
An arming assembly for a personal self-defense device includes a substantially closed-ended cylindrical member having a first end and a second end, the cylindrical member having an interior chamber. At least one opening being formed within the first end for the inserting and exiting of a porcupine quill. A translatable piston includes a spring and a disc being disposed within the interior chamber. At least one arm being attached to the spring in order to compress and release the spring and translate the disc toward the second end. At least one quill is inserted into the opening formed within the first end and sits in an associated indentation formed within the disc. Once the arm is released, the quill is projected forward and exits through the opening formed within the first end, which is aimed at a would-be attacker. The arming assembly may be double-acting by having conjoined opposed similar components. |
| US09726451B2 |
Modular slingshot
The above objectives are accomplished according to the present invention by providing A modular slingshot comprising: a handle having a spring recess; a spring attached to the handle being received in the spring recess having a serrated portion and spring tab; a fork removably attached to the handle having a tab recess for receiving the spring tab to secure the fork on the handle; and, band securing assembly including plugs that are attached to the forks. |
| US09726447B2 |
Clay-pigeon-like projectile for crowd control
A crowd control projectile includes a payload carrier, an incapacitating agent inside the payload carrier, and an activating mechanism for activating the incapacitating agent. The activating mechanism includes a sensor and a timer. The timer delays the activation until a predetermined delay after the sensor senses that the projectile has been launched. Alternatively, the activating mechanism includes a receiver for receiving an activation signal after the projectile has been launched. Preferably, the projectile has the shape of a clay pigeon. A launcher of such a projectile includes a communication mechanism for transmitting a timing signal or an activation signal to the projectile and an arm for launching the projectile by direct contact. To control a crowd, the projectile is launched over the crowd by direct contact with a solid arm and the activating mechanism is used to activate the incapacitating agent when the projectile is above the crowd. |
| US09726446B2 |
Magazine for projectile launcher
A magazine configured to hold a plurality of projectiles is disclosed. The magazine can be used with a toy projectile launcher. A toy projectile launcher configured to launch a plurality of projectiles therefrom is also disclosed. The toy projectile launcher having: a housing; and a magazine movably secured to a housing of the toy projectile launcher, the magazine including a plurality of chambers, each of the chambers being configured to hold one of the plurality of the projectiles therein, the magazine having a surface that is engageable by the toy projectile launcher to align and to move the magazine relative to the housing. |
| US09726443B2 |
Heat exchange system and method
A dual fluid heat exchange system is presented that provides a stable output temperature for a heated fluid while minimizing the output temperature of a cooled fluid. The heated and cooled fluids are brought into thermal contact with each other within a tank. The output temperature of the warmed fluid is maintained at a stable temperature by a re-circulation loop that connects directly to the mid portion of the tank such that the re-circulated fluid flow primarily warms only a re-circulation section of the tank. The other, lower flow rate, section of the tank may be positioned so that it has a cooler temperature and thus serves to increase the efficiency of the heat exchange by extracting extra heat energy out of the cooled fluid before it leaves the tank. Alternatively, the low flow rate section of the tank may be warmer than the re-circulated section, and thus allow the re-circulated section to be cooler than the output temperature of the warmed fluid. |
| US09726432B2 |
Air cooling unit
An air cooling unit is an air cooling unit used in a Rankine cycle system and includes an expander and a condenser. The expander recovers energy from a working fluid by expanding the working fluid. The condenser cools the working fluid using air. The air cooling unit includes a heat-transfer reducer that reduces heat transfer between the expander and an air path. |
| US09726431B2 |
Dental furnace
The invention relates to a dental furnace (10) for dental restorations comprising a firing chamber into which, in particular between a furnace bottom part (14) and a furnace upper part (12), the dental restoration, in particular within a muffle, can be introduced, and a sensor that is connected with a control device (52) for the dental furnace (10), characterized in that the sensor, in particular the temperature sensor (22), is arranged outside the firing chamber and comprises a detection range (40) that also extends outside the firing chamber. |
| US09726429B1 |
Wood processing oven and method
Systems and methods for treating wood and wood products, including a structure defining a wood treating zone, an air heating zone, a heated air supply zone, and a cooled air return zone. Heating units feed conduits defining one or more heat transfer surfaces and an indirect heat exchange substructure. The heated air supply zone includes left and right heated air plenums, and the cooled air return zone includes a return duct, all internal of the wood treating zone. A movable cart moves spaced apart, stacked wood products into and out of the wood heating zone. The cart and wood thereon fit closely within but do not touch the wood treating zone. An air blower internal of the heated air supply zone and in fluid communication with the air heating zone and the heated air supply zone recirculates air. An exhaust blower vents some of the cooled air. |
| US09726428B2 |
Framed drying rack
A drying rack assembly having a frame that defines a window. A drying support structure with drying rods is provided and mounted in the window by pivot brackets. At least one strap is secured between the frame and drying support structure. The interior sides of the frame include slots that define a top resting position and a bottom resting position with a slidable pole being positioned in the slots. The pole extends across the window with the strap extending behind the pole such that when the pole is moved into the top or bottom resting position, the strap configures the drying rack structure into a full extension position or a partial extension position away from the frame support structure. |
| US09726426B2 |
System and method for removing excess nitrogen from gas subcooled expander operations
A system and method for removing nitrogen from an intermediate stream in a gas subcooled process operation that processes natural gas into a sales gas stream and a natural gas liquids stream. The system and method of the invention are particularly suitable for use with gas subcooled process operations where the sales gas stream exceeds pipeline nitrogen specifications by up to about 3%, such as for reducing the nitrogen content of sales gas streams to levels permissible for pipeline transport. |
| US09726424B1 |
Cooler with secondary lid
A cooler with a modular light bar having multiple LEDs and a secondary lid is disclosed herein. The LEDs are preferably automatically activated by a switch positioned in the cooler. When the lid is in an open state, the switch completes a circuit from a battery to the LEDs of the modular light bar thereby allowing the LEDs to illuminate the entire interior chamber of the cooler. |
| US09726423B1 |
Sliding shelf assembly for a refrigerator appliance
A sliding shelf assembly for a refrigerator appliance is provided. The sliding shelf assembly includes a shelf support frame that is slidably mounted inside the chilled chamber of the refrigerator appliance. A connecting arm couples the shelf support frame to the door such that the shelf support frame slides out of the chilled chamber as the door is opened. Moreover, the shelf support frame slidably receives refrigerator shelves that may slide independently of the shelf support frame. The sliding shelf assembly thereby simplifies storage on the refrigerator shelves, improves accessibility of the chilled chamber, and improves consumer satisfaction with the refrigerator appliance. |
| US09726421B2 |
Household appliance comprising a door opening aid
A household appliance includes an interior compartment, a door for closing the interior compartment and a drive facility for assisting with opening the door. The household appliance further includes a pressure sensing facility for detecting or sensing a difference between an interior pressure inside the interior compartment and an ambient pressure outside the interior compartment. The drive facility is configured to apply a driving force to the door as a function of the difference between the pressures. |
| US09726418B2 |
Refrigeration devices including temperature-controlled container systems
In some embodiments, a refrigeration device includes: walls substantially forming a liquid-impermeable container configured to hold phase change material internal to the refrigeration device; at least one active refrigeration unit including a set of evaporator coils positioned at least partially within the liquid-impermeable container; a unidirectional thermal conductor with a condensing end and an evaporative end, the condensing end positioned within the liquid-impermeable container; a first aperture in the liquid-impermeable container, the first aperture of a size, shape and position to permit the set of evaporator coils to traverse the aperture; a second aperture in the liquid-impermeable container, the second aperture including an internal surface of a size, shape and position to mate with an external surface of the unidirectional thermal conductor; and one or more walls substantially forming a storage region in thermal contact with the evaporative end of the unidirectional thermal conductor. |
| US09726417B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator includes a body, first and second storage compartments and a machine compartment formed in the body, a blower fan disposed in the machine compartment, first and second refrigerating units comprising first and second compressors to compress first and second refrigerants, respectively, first and second condensers to condense the first and second refrigerants, respectively, first and second expansion valves to expand the first and second refrigerants, respectively, and first and second evaporators to evaporate the first and second refrigerants, respectively, the first and second refrigerating units supplying cold air to the first and storage compartments, respectively. The first compressor, the second compressor, and the first condenser are disposed in the machine compartment and are cooled by forcible flow of air caused by the blower fan, and the second condenser is disposed outside the machine compartment and is cooled by natural convection of air. |
| US09726416B2 |
Transport refrigeration system with engine exhaust cooling
A heat exchanger includes an inner tube extending along a central axis, an array of a plurality of heat transfer members mounted to the inner tube, and a plurality of outer tubes disposed radially outward of and in parallel relationship to the inner tube, the inner and outer tubes extending longitudinally to pass through the array of heat transfer members. The heat exchanger is particularly suited for use as an engine exhaust cooler in connection with a transport refrigeration unit, wherein the inner tube defines an internal flow passage through which engine exhaust gas passes, each outer tube defines an internal flow passage through which refrigerant passes, and the plurality of flow passages between adjacent heat transfer members defines an air flow passage. In an embodiment, the heat transfer members may be annular disks having an internal chamber filled with air or other heat transfer working fluid. |
| US09726413B2 |
Refrigerator and method for controlling the same
A refrigerator includes a door, a dispenser in the door, a water nozzle and an ice nozzle on the dispenser, the ice nozzle being arranged in a line with the water nozzle, and a single manipulation member under the water nozzle and the ice nozzle that is manipulated in a same direction as the arranged direction of the water nozzle and the ice nozzle, the manipulation member allowing selection between dispensing of water and ice. The refrigerator also includes a detection member on the dispenser for recognizing a manipulation of the manipulation member, a control unit for controlling a valve and a motor to dispense either the water or ice based on an input of the detection member, and a display unit on the dispenser for displaying a selected state of the water or ice according to a manipulated state of the manipulation member. |
| US09726409B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus
An air-conditioning apparatus includes a controller which calculates a composition ratio of a refrigerant mixture using a high-pressure-side pressure of a refrigerant discharged from a compressor, a low-pressure-side pressure of a refrigerant to be sucked into the compressor, a high-pressure-side temperature of a refrigerant at an inlet side of a second expansion device in a high/low pressure bypass pipe, and a low-pressure-side temperature of a refrigerant at an outlet side of the second expansion device in the high/low pressure bypass pipe and which determines whether to open or close a bypass-channel opening/closing device. |
| US09726407B2 |
Expansion valve for a refrigeration cycle
A temperature sensitive rod is communicated with a diaphragm that is displaceable in response to a pressure difference between an internal pressure of a sealed space, in which a temperature sensitive medium is sealed, and a pressure of a low pressure refrigerant outputted from an evaporator. A blind hole, which opens to the sealed space, is formed in an inside of the temperature sensitive rod. The temperature sensitive medium is a mixture gas of the refrigerant and an inert gas. A mixing ratio of the inert gas in the temperature sensitive medium corresponds to a ratio of an equivalent diameter of the blind hole relative to a depth of the blind hole in such a manner that a time constant of heat conduction from the temperature sensitive rod to the temperature sensitive medium is kept within a desired time constant range. |
| US09726406B2 |
Expansion valve
There is provided an expansion valve which, by moving the sub-valve in a valve housing, controls the flow rate of a refrigerant in a first flow direction and releases the refrigerant to flow in a second flow direction, wherein the sub-valve is reduced in weight and a valve port is provided with high accuracy. The sub-valve includes a guide member formed by press work and a valve seat member formed by cutting. The sub-valve is seated on a sub-valve seat of a valve seat ring when the pressure in a main valve chamber is high, and is moved away from the sub-valve seat when the pressure in the main valve chamber is low. The sub-valve is reduced in weight by forming the guide member by press work, and the valve port is formed with improved accuracy by forming the valve seat member by cutting. |
| US09726391B2 |
Ventilation devices and methods
Devices are provided for ventilating and/or removing volatile chemicals from liquid (e.g. water) stored in a liquid-containing storage tank (e.g. water-storage tank). The devices include a first fluid flow path that is physically isolated from a second fluid flow path and a convection device for moving a first fluid along the first fluid flow path toward at a desired destination and for exhausting the first fluid at the desired destination at a desired velocity. Methods are also provided for ventilating and/or removing volatile chemicals from liquid (e.g. water) stored in liquid-containing storage tanks (e.g. water-storage tanks). The methods involve blowing a first fluid through a ventilation device into a liquid-containing storage device at a velocity sufficient to achieve a desired mass transfer rate of volatile chemicals from the liquid in the liquid-containing storage device to air in the headspace and flowing the contaminated air back through the ventilation device. |
| US09726389B2 |
Personal evaporative cooling apparatus
A portable evaporative cooling apparatus includes a primary passage for delivering a primary air stream to an induction nozzle. A secondary passage that is substantially unobstructed extends from an ambient air inlet to the induction nozzle. A secondary air stream is induced through the secondary passage by the primary air stream and the primary and secondary air streams are ejected from the induction nozzle into the ambient air. An atomizer in the secondary passage, proximate the ambient air inlet, emits a fine spray of water into the secondary air stream. The mixing of the water spray and induced air flow is performed inside the induction nozzle, which also provides a physical and thermal barrier, and makes a completely cooled air stream available immediately outside the user, so the apparatuses may be placed close to the user's face, for example. |
| US09726388B2 |
Reflective ultraviolet light shield for a HVAC unit
A heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. The unit comprises a heat exchanger or drain pan located inside a HVAC housing that has one or more access openings and ultraviolet light-sensitive components therein. The unit also comprises a light located inside of the HVAC housing and a light shield located between the heat exchanger or drain pan and the light source. The light source includes a network of open-ended cells, each cell having ultraviolet light reflective walls. The light shield is oriented to direct an ultraviolet light from the light source through the open-ended cells towards the heat exchanger or drain pan and away from the one or more access openings and ultraviolet light-sensitive components. |
| US09726386B2 |
Air conditioner unit including a heating unit
In accordance with one embodiment, an air conditioner unit is provided. The air conditioner unit includes a heater housing having peripheral surfaces defining a housing interior, the peripheral surfaces including a first sidewall and a second sidewall spaced apart along the lateral direction. The air conditioner unit further includes a guide track extending along the lateral direction between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The air conditioner unit further includes a blower fan, the blower fan including a blade assembly disposed within the interior and a motor connected to the blade assembly. The air conditioner unit further includes a heating unit comprising a first bracket and a second bracket spaced apart along the lateral direction. The heating unit further includes at least one heater bank extending along the lateral direction between the first bracket and the second bracket. The heating unit is movable along the guide track. |
| US09726385B2 |
Indoor unit of air conditioner and method of controlling the same
An indoor unit of an air conditioner has an improved discharge structure of air. The indoor unit of an air conditioner includes a panel which defines an external appearance thereof and has an opening, a mixed flow fan which is located within the panel, a heat exchanger unit which is located rearward of the mixed flow fan, an inlet port which is located rearward of the heat exchanger unit so that air is suctioned from rearward of the heat exchanger unit to be introduced into the mixed flow fan, an outlet port which is exposed forward of the panel through the opening so that the air passing though the mixed flow fan is discharged through a front portion of the panel, and a plurality of circular louvers to open and close the outlet port by moving outwards from a center of the outlet port. |
| US09726384B2 |
Room air conditioner with movable side fan units
An air conditioner includes a main unit having an enclosure defining an air outlet. The enclosure contains a heat exchanger generating a cool air or a warm air forming airflow running out of the air outlet. A pair of fan units are disposed on the opposite sides of the air outlet. The fan units are configured to suck a room air and to blow the room air. The airflow of the room air can be utilized to control the direction and/or movement of the airflow of the cool air or the warm air. The cool air or the warm air can be conveyed to desired locations. |
| US09726379B2 |
Measurement device for determining oven heating parameters
A measurement device for determining heating parameters of an oven may generally include a support plate and at least one sensor cup coupled to the support plate. The sensor cup may define a liquid well for receiving a volume of liquid and may include a bottom wall defining a floor of the liquid well. In addition, the measurement device may include a temperature sensor positioned adjacent to the floor of the liquid well such that the temperature sensor is configured to be in fluid contact with at least a portion of the volume of the liquid received within the liquid well. The temperature sensor may be configured to monitor a temperature of the liquid as the liquid is heated and evaporates from the sensor cup. |
| US09726371B2 |
Glass and metal burner cap and method of making the same
A gas burner assembly may include a gas burner and a burner cap. The burner may include a distribution cavity fluidly coupled with a gas inlet and a plurality of gas discharge ports. The burner cap may have a glass body characterized by a peripheral edge, and a metal element encapsulating the peripheral edge. The glass body may overlie at least a portion of the distribution cavity, and the metal element may shield the peripheral edge. |
| US09726367B2 |
Watering device incorporating a light source
A Watering device incorporating a light source (5) consisting of at least one inner chamber (2) attached to the exterior surface of the reservoir (1), said inner chamber (2) projecting or extending inwardly, said reservoir (1) having a mouth (3) which is able to be screwed or attached easily to commonly available drip feed devices or watering spikes (4), the inner chamber (2) wall at the exterior surface of the reservoir or extending outwardly from the reservoir exterior surface having a hole to accommodate fully or partially a light source or light sources (5) within the chambers), said light sources providing illumination of the reservoir (1), the plant, and surroundings or part thereof. |
| US09726366B2 |
Touch pad device having illumination function
A touch pad device includes: an operating unit which includes an operation surface on which an operating body performs a proximity operation, and an illumination portion disposed in the operation surface; a first substrate which has a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being aligned with the operation surface and provided with a detection unit that detects the proximity operation; and a support member configured to integrally support the operating unit and the first substrate, in which the first substrate is provided so as not to overlap the illumination portion, a light source disposed in the vicinity of the illumination portion and outputs light toward the support member side is provided, and a reflective portion configured to reflect the light output from the light source toward the illumination portion is provided at a position that opposes the light source of the support member. |
| US09726365B1 |
Low profile light
A luminaire is providing comprising a heat spreader and a heat sink thermally coupled to the heat spreader, an outer optic retained relative to at least one of the heat spreader and the heat sink, a light source in thermal communication with the heat spreader and comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are disposed on the heat spreader such that the heat spreader dissipates heat from the plurality of LEDs, and a power conditioner configured to receive AC voltage and deliver DC voltage to the plurality of LEDs, the power conditioner being disposed on a same side of the heat spreader as the plurality of LEDs. A combination defined by the heat spreader, the heat sink and the outer optic is so dimensioned to cover an opening defined by a nominally sized can light fixture and cover an opening defined by a nominally sized electrical junction box. |
| US09726363B2 |
Light-emitting device
In a first aspect of the present inventive subject matter, a light-emitting device includes a magnetic circuit including a magnetic gap; a movable member including a coil that is electrically connectable to an alternating current power source and arranged in the magnetic gap of the magnetic circuit; and a light source including a light-emitting diode and arranged above the movable member, and the movable member is able to be activated with a voltage falling in a range of one to five percent of an entire voltage range that is applicable to the light-emitting device. |
| US09726361B1 |
Networked LED lighting system
An improved LED lighting system is provided for overhead ceiling lighting, as well as for other uses. The LED lighting system comprises elongated linear lamps having an LED luminary as a source of illumination and configured to operate as a node of an automated networked lighting system. The linear LED lamps have internal modular network connectors and control components so that they can receive control data and power signals over a single network cable according to a standardized power and data network communications architecture such as Ethernet. The system includes connector assemblies designed to securely mount the networkable linear LED lamps to conventional tube lamp lighting fixtures or to another support housing and to provide integrated power and data connectivity to internal components of the lamps. In one form, the disclosed system includes a network enabled snap-fit connector assembly mounted to a lighting fixture and configured to provide Ethernet power and data connectivity to the lamp. The LED lamps have first and second mechanical connectors at opposite ends of the lamp body, and the snap-fit connectors are configured to secure the lamps to an overhead lighting fixture or other support structure as an incident of the lamp ends moving relative to the mounting connectors in a substantially straight path that is transverse to the length of the body into an engaged position. The snap-fit connectors are also configured to form a network connection with an internal modular network connector associated with the lamp with the lamp mounted in its operative state on a support. In another form, a clipping mechanism is provided for mounting linear networkable LED lamps to an overhead grid ceiling system. |
| US09726359B1 |
Light fixture including adjustable motion sensor with rectangular coverage pattern
Systems, devices, and methods for a decorative outdoor light fixture that can include an adjustable motion sensor with a rectangular coverage pattern. An adjustable motion sensor for a light fixture can include an outer housing connected to a light fixture frame, a movable sensor assembly including a motion detector contained within the outer housing, a lens covering a portion of the outer housing in the path of the motion detector sensing beams to direct the sensing beams in a rectangular coverage pattern, and a sensor adjustment mechanism accessible from an exterior of the outer housing to allow a user to rotate the sensor adjustment mechanism to cause the motion detector to move upward and downward. The adjustable motion sensor covered with a fixed window that hides the motion sensor assembly from view. |
| US09726352B2 |
Lamp for vehicle having a rotating reflector and a reflecting body
A lamp for a vehicle includes a light source generating a light. A reflector is rotatably coupled with a support. A reflecting body is connected to the reflector to rotate along with a rotation of the reflector, receives the light from the light source, and reflects the light to the reflector. |
| US09726350B2 |
Signalling beacon with deflector
A light projector intended to produce a directional flat light beam includes an elongate cylindrical lens and a linear light source parallel to the generatrix direction, extending over all or part of the length of the lens to emit light in the direction of the lens. The lens is designed to generate a principal flat light beam by concentrating the light in a predefined elevation angular sector around the horizontal generatrix direction. The light projector also includes a deflector having a rectangular plate shape positioned on the side opposite the light source. A signalling beacon including such a projector is also described. |
| US09726348B2 |
Wavelength conversion material array
A wavelength conversion material array is provided, including a system comprising: a light source configured to emit excitation light at an excitation wavelength; a heatsink; a wavelength conversion material located on the heatsink, the wavelength conversion material comprising a relative wavelength conversion area of unity divided into an array of spots, a number of the spots in a range of 4 to 12, the wavelength conversion material configured to emit light at a wavelength greater than the excitation wavelength when irradiated by the excitation light; and, an array of lenslets configured to: receive the excitation light from the light source and irradiate each of the spots of the wavelength conversion material with the excitation light, the lenslets in a one-to-one relationship with the number of spots; and collect the light emitted by the wavelength conversion material. |
| US09726343B2 |
Lens and lighting apparatus including the same
A lighting apparatus includes a body, a light source unit disposed on the body to generate light, and a lens disposed on the body to refract light generated from the light source unit. The lens includes a light introduction portion having a light introduction surface for introduction of light and a light emission portion having a light emission surface for passage of light having passed through the light introduction portion, and the light introduction surface of the light introduction portion and the light emission surface of the light emission portion are configured to satisfy cos a1−cos θ1/cos a2−cos θ2<0. |
| US09726341B2 |
Lighting apparatus and motor vehicle
A lighting apparatus includes: a first light source that emits a first light; a first lens that allows the first light to pass through and exit from a first exit face of the first lens; a second light source that emits a second light; and a second lens that is smaller than the first lens and allows the second light to pass through and exit from a second exit face of the second lens. When viewed from the first exit face side: (i) the first exit face has a recess that is recessed inward from a periphery of the first exit face; and (ii) the second exit face is at least partially disposed in the recess. |
| US09726340B2 |
Semiconductor light-emitting apparatus and vehicle headlight
A reliable semiconductor light-emitting apparatus and a headlight using the light-emitting apparatus provided with a light source module including a semiconductor light-emitting device and a wavelength converting module including a wavelength converting layer. The wavelength converting module can include a base having a mounting board, which mounts the wavelength converting layer via metallic bumps, and the base can be configured to attach the light source module directly or via a connecting guide including an optical fiber, and therefore can transmit light emitted from the light-emitting device towards the wavelength converting layer while efficiently radiating heat generated from the wavelength converting layer. Thus, the disclosed subject matter can provide reliable semiconductor light-emitting apparatuses having a high thermal resistance that can emit various color lights having favorable optical characteristics, which can also include the optical fiber, and which can be used for the headlight that can provide a favorable light distribution pattern. |
| US09726339B2 |
Luminaire, assembly for a grid ceiling, method for installing a luminaire, method for removing a luminaire, and removal tool
A luminaire for installing in a grid ceiling includes at least one catch which is arranged in such a way on the luminaire and designed such that the at least one catch snaps into place automatically behind a portion of an element of the grid ceiling and thus engages behind the portion of the element of the grid ceiling in order to hold the luminaire on the grid ceiling. In addition, an assembly for a grid ceiling includes at least one ceiling profile element and at least one such luminaire. |
| US09726336B2 |
LED lighting system, lamp retrofit system, kit, and method
An LED lighting system, lamp retrofit system, kit, and method is presently disclosed. The LED retrofit system comprises at least one longitudinally extending LED lamp having a length substantially greater than a width and open longitudinal ends. A first LED lamp support rail holds and covers a first open longitudinal end of each of the at least one longitudinally extending LED lamps and is configured to electrically connect each of the at least one longitudinally extending LED lamps to a power source. A second LED lamp support rail holds and covers a second open longitudinal end of each of the at least one longitudinally extending LED lamps held with the first LED lamp support rail. A system holder on each of the first and second LED lamp support rails is configured and disposed to hold the retrofit system to a portion of a lamp fixture being retrofitted. |
| US09726329B2 |
Light source apparatus
A light source apparatus of the present invention has a plurality of semiconductor laser devices and a holding member; the semiconductor laser device includes: a semiconductor laser element; a placing body on which the semiconductor laser element is mounted; a substrate on which the placing body is biased to one side thereof; and a pair of terminals electrically connected to the semiconductor laser element, biased to the other side of the substrate and protruding from the substrate, and the holding member includes: holes aligned in at least a pair of rows; a thin-walled section on which the holes are arranged, the thin-walled section being formed by providing at least a pair of depressions on the other side; and a thick-walled section provided adjacent to the thin-walled section. The semiconductor laser device is mounted on one side of the holding member and the placing body of the semiconductor laser device is disposed on the thick-walled section, and the pair of terminals are exposed through the holes from the other side of the holding member. |
| US09726324B2 |
Protection circuit for machine tool control center
A protection circuit is coupled to a switch circuit of a machine tool for protection. The protection circuit comprises a fatigue protection unit and a misoperation protection unit. The fatigue protection unit comprises a first sensor, a first processor, a first controller, and an alarm module. The misoperation protection unit comprises a second sensor, a second processor, and a second controller. The protection circuit senses the degree of fatigue and the misoperation of people through the fatigue protection unit and the misoperation protection unit, then controls the machine tool to work or not to work to avoid accidents. |
| US09726322B1 |
Grease gun and cartridge unit
A grease gun, in one preferred embodiment, wherein the grease containing portion of the cartridge consists principally of transparent plastic material, wherein the cartridge stands alone without a surrounding supporting metal barrel, wherein the cartridge has an air vented bottom end and an open top end which is non-removably fixed to the grease inlet portion of a pumping head, wherein the pumping head body including the pumping handles is composed of a single plastic molding, wherein the cartridge has no pressurizing spring and piston and no grease compression rod, wherein ambient air pressure is utilized to load the head, wherein valving structures in the head are molded of plastic material, wherein the valving structures are positioned in the head to allow self priming of the pumping structure, and whereby the gun components are easy to assemble, are light weight, and are easy to use. |
| US09726319B2 |
Combinable hanger apparatus
An extendable hanger apparatus to which or through which an electrical feed can be connected includes a support base, the support base has a containing groove and at least one support posts. Locating devices and a fastening component are provided on the containing groove, the locating devices configured to fixing the support base on a fixed structure, and fastening components are installed at the two end portions of the support base. The fastening components are configured to enable chaining, and the support post has a support component, the support component is configured to connect with an object for hanging. |
| US09726317B2 |
Movable seat and rail device with the movable seat
A movable seat and a rail device. The movable seat includes a main body; an air passage, an air sucking passage and an air intake passage formed in the main body; a sucker disposed under bottom face of the main body and an operation/control member mounted on the main body. When the operation/control member is positioned in a locking position, the air passage or the air intake passage keeps in a communication state and make the sucker a sucking force. When the operation/control member is positioned in a releasing position, the air passage or the air intake passage is blocked. By means of easy operation, the movable seat can create sucking force and locate or stop providing sucking force. One or more movable seats can be connected with multiple beams to form the rail device, which can be quickly located or moved. |
| US09726316B2 |
Valve access conduit assembly and method of installing the assembly
The combination of: a) an underground valve for a supply line and having an underground actuator through which the state of the valve can be changed to control flow within the supply line; and b) a conduit assembly embedded in ground material and defining an access passage through which above ground access can be obtained to the valve actuator. The conduit assembly has a cap that can be selectively changed between: a) a first state wherein the cap blocks the entry opening; and b) a second state wherein above ground access can be gained to the valve actuator. The conduit assembly has an upper conduit part and a lower conduit part. The upper and lower conduit parts are interconnected and configured so that they move axially guidingly against and relative to each other so as to vary an effective combined axial length of the upper and lower conduit parts in response to forces generated by the ground material. |
| US09726313B2 |
Compact pipe flange gasket
A gasket is for an annular compact flange. The compact flange includes two joinable flange halves which are formed with contact surfaces facing each other, and at least one of the flange halves having an axial, centric bore. An annular gasket groove is arranged in each of the flange halves, which is arranged to sealingly receive a common gasket. The gasket groove has a proximal side and a distal side relative to the bore, the distal side, which is conical, forming a groove sealing surface against the gasket. The gasket, which seals at the groove sealing surface, is formed with a plate portion positioned between the contact surfaces. |
| US09726310B2 |
Combination sealing member and pipe couplings
A sealing member is disclosed having an outer surface that supports segments of a pipe coupling for joining pipe elements in end to end relation. The segments are supported in spaced relation to permit the pipe elements to be inserted into the coupling without disassembly. The sealing member is a flexible ring that has conical lips around its inner circumference to engage and guide the pipe elements into the coupling. A tongue extends radially inwardly between the lips, the tongue having conical shoulders which engage and guide the pipe ends. The tongue locates the coupling segments relatively to the pipe elements. |
| US09726307B1 |
Orifice holder construction
An orifice holder assembly provides a boss connected by at least one arm to a base having an outlet therethrough. The boss is provided below the outlet. A tube is inserted through the boss until a bead contacts a first boss surface and the tube end is then deflected to form a lip where the lip and the bead connects the tube to the boss. An orifice body is then inserted in the tube end. |
| US09726306B2 |
Flexible reinforced pipe and reinforcement tape
A flexible pipe includes: an inner liner formed as a tube and having an outer surface and an inner surface defining an inner diameter; a reinforcement layer bonded to the inner liner and including at least a first ply of reinforcing tape helically wrapped in a first helical direction about the inner liner and a second ply of reinforcing tape helically wrapped about the first ply of reinforcing tape, the second ply of reinforcing tape helically wrapped in a second helical direction opposite to the first helical direction; and an outer jacket applied over and bonded to the reinforcement layer, the outer jacket including a thermoplastic. A reinforcing tape for use in the pipe or other applications includes: a plurality of reinforcing fibers and a matrix about the plurality of reinforcing fibers to hold the reinforcing fibers in the form of a tape, the matrix including thermoplastic and an additive to increase the impact resistance of the thermoplastic. |
| US09726304B2 |
Double offset pipe hanger and restrainer
A double offset hanger and restrainer device for securely supporting a pipe or the like against undesirable sway and seismic disturbances is provided. The hanger and restrainer device includes a proximal portion mountable to a beam or the like and a specially contoured distal portion with an opening that can receive the pipe in a “snap-on” manner. The snap-on or press-fit feature also provides the advantage of retrofit installation, thereby permitting one or more of the devices to be added on without disassembly of an existing installation. |
| US09726302B2 |
Fluidic system, use, and method for operating the same
A fluidic system having a first volume, a second volume and a membrane geometrically separating the two volumes, which has an open-pore microstructure for the passage of a first medium and a second medium. There is a contact angle (Θ) between the interface of the media and the pore surface. A first electrical field in the region of the membrane and a first electromagnetic radiation and a first heating of the membrane define a first state (Z1), in which the membrane is not wetted or is less wetted by the first medium and is more heavily wetted by the second medium such that a first contact angle Θ1>90° is formed between the pore surface and the interface. The first medium and the second medium and the pore surface have a surface energy of which at least one surface energy can be reversibly changed in such a way that a second contact angle Θ2<Θ1 occurs between the pore surface and the interface in a second state (Z2). |
| US09726297B1 |
Pressure relief valve for railroad tank cars
A relief valve configured to allow content held within a vessel to be release under pressure is disclosed. The relief valve is configured to expose a release outlet when pressure within the vessel exceeds a release pressure, and the relief valve is further configured to maintain exposure of the release outlet after pressure within the vessel falls below the release pressure. |
| US09726295B2 |
Modular stop for valve
A modular stop is provided for ball valves, such as those used as drill stem safety valves. The modular stop can be a replaceable component in valves for use with stems used to rotate a ball valve in the valve's body. The modular stop can bear the wear associated with the operation of ball valves and when the modular stop has exceeded its usable service life, it can be replaced without replacing the whole of the valve body. The modular stop can be used in new valve manufacture as well as in the retrofitting or remanufacturing of existing valves. |
| US09726294B2 |
Plug head assemblies
In accordance with various embodiments, a plug head assembly is provided comprising a ceramic plug head having a frustroconical geometry, wherein the ceramic plug head has a proximal terminus and a distal terminus, wherein the ceramic plug head has a first coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), a sleeve having a frustroconical geometry conforming to the ceramic plug head and a second CTE, wherein the second CTE is greater than the first CTE, a distal retainer having a frustroconical geometry conforming to the sleeve, the distal retainer having a first engagement portion for engaging the a proximal retainer, the proximal retainer having a second engagement portion for engaging the distal retainer, and a base that couples with the proximal retainer. In addition, thick banded plug heads are provided. |
| US09726290B2 |
Seal structure using metal gasket
A seal structure has one metal gasket arranged between a pair of casings. The metal gasket is provided with a planate outer peripheral portion and a bead portion which is formed by rising up from an inner peripheral end portion of the outer peripheral portion, and is arranged so that the bead portion comes into contact with the one casing, and the outer peripheral portion comes into contact with the other casing. The bead portion elastically deforms so as to reduce its height and the outer peripheral portion elastically deforms on the basis of the elastic deformation of the bead portion, when the metal gasket is pinched by the pair of casings, and a leading end of the outer peripheral portion comes into contact with one casing at this time, whereby any gap in which salt water stays is not formed between one casing and the metal gasket. |
| US09726289B2 |
Sealing assembly, flat gasket for a sealing assembly and method for mounting a sealing assembly
A sealing assembly includes a first component having a first sealing surface, a second component having a second sealing surface and a flat gasket arranged in the space between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface, wherein the gasket has a through-opening for a third component arranged at least partially in the first component and/or the second component and at least engaging in the through-opening. The flat gasket has retaining means for securing the third component, the retaining means releasing the third component in a release position of said flat gasket and fixing said third component in at least one direction with respect to the first component and/or the second component in a retaining position of the gasket. |
| US09726288B2 |
Pressure vessel closure
A closure for a pressure vessel that includes a neck with a groove defined in the inner diameter, and a door assembly that pivots between opened and closed positions. The door assembly includes a door portion sized to be received in an opening of the neck, a guide plate connected to the door portion and rotatable between locked and unlocked positions, a first lock ring segment positioned radially outwardly of the guide plate and a handle. The guide plate includes a first cam path defined therein that receives a cam member of a first lug assembly that extends inwardly from the first lock ring segment. Rotation of the handle (and guide plate) from the unlocked to the locked position moves the first lock ring segment from a locked to an unlocked position. In the locked position, the first lock ring segment is received in the groove of the neck. |
| US09726287B2 |
Gas cylinder actuator with overtravel safety device
A gas cylinder actuator with overtravel safety device, comprising a tubular jacket for gas containment, which is closed hermetically at one end by a bottom provided with a gas filling valve and at the opposite end by a head portion, which is provided with a hole for the passage of a stem with a piston, the jacket, the bottom and the piston forming the gas expansion and compression chamber.The head portion comprises an annular body, which is fixed internally to the jacket, and is provided with a central hole for the passage of the stem with the interposition of dynamic sealing elements, static sealing elements being interposed between the annular body and the jacket and an element for controlling the descending motion of a slider of a press with which the actuator is associated being provided and protruding from the annular body or from the jacket, the control element being preset to selectively move or break or deform in order to break or deform or render ineffective in general the static and dynamic sealing elements. |
| US09726286B2 |
Combination oil ring
A combination oil ring includes a pair of upper and lower side rails and a spacer expander arranged therebetween, the spacer expander including a plurality of upper pieces and lower pieces alternately arranged in a circumferential direction with the pieces axially and circumferentially apart from each other, a coupling piece coupling pieces adjacent to each other, and flange portions formed standing at inner circumferential-side end portions of the upper pieces and the lower pieces so as to press the side rails, and a through hole being formed in the flange portions, wherein side rail support portions that project axially are formed at portions in the circumferential direction of outer circumferential-side end portions of the upper pieces and the lower pieces. |
| US09726285B2 |
Piston push rod assembly, master cylinder, and manufacturing method for piston push rod assembly
Provided is a piston push rod assembly which can prevent discomfort from being imparted during the operation of a brake pedal by a driver. A piston push rod assembly, wherein: a second piston is provided with a piston slide section which is housed in a cylinder and which slides relative to the cylinder, and a connection tube section which is connected to a push rod; the piston slide section is covered by metal plating; the connection tube section has a non-plated section; and the second piston and the push rod are connected by the caulking of the connection tube section when the push rod has been inserted inside the connection tube section. |
| US09726282B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
Embodiments are directed to a front end accessory drive (FEAD) and power modulating devices (PMD) which can be used in a FEAD. In one embodiment, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is coupled directly to a crankshaft of a prime mover, and the CVT is used to regulate the speed and/or torque delivered to an accessory. A compound drive device includes a motor/generator subassembly cooperating with a CVT subassembly to provide a motor functionality with torque multiplication or division, or alternatively, a generator functionality with torque multiplication or division. In some embodiments, a FEAD includes a PMD having a sun shaft configured to couple to a sun of the PMD and to an electric motor component, such as an electrical armature or an electrical field. In one embodiment, the electrical armature the electrical field are placed concentrically and coaxially and configured to rotate relative to one another in opposite directions. |
| US09726269B1 |
Transmission and engine configuration
A drive train configuration is disclosed. The drive train incorporates an engine having hydraulic pumps contained substantially inside the engine housing and with an engine shaft driving the hydraulic pumps. A porting block or center section is mounted to the engine housing to provide hydraulic communication between the hydraulic pumps located inside the engine housing and hydraulic motors located outside the engine housing. The hydraulic motor output shafts drive gears connected to axles to propel a vehicle. |
| US09726265B2 |
Transmission device for controlling the translational movement of an organ and brake system equipped with such a transmission device forming a brake booster
A transmission device for controlling the translational movement of an element includes: an exterior planetary gear equipped interiorly with teeth; an interior planetary gear connected to the controlled element and bearing a rack in the direction of translation; a satellite carrier having satellites with helical teeth engaged with the interior teeth; and a stationary housing accommodating the exterior planetary gear, the interior planetary gear, the satellite carrier. The rack is used to control the translational movement of the interior planetary gear. The transmission device is driven by a motor with a transmission acting either on the exterior planetary gear or the satellite carrier. |
| US09726263B1 |
Variable transmission system
An example variable transmission system is provided. As an example, a variable transmission system may include a frame, an output hub coupled to the frame, a first linear actuator coupled to the frame, and a second linear actuator coupled to the frame. The variable transmission system may also include a tension-bearing element positioned around the output hub. A first end of the tension-bearing element may be coupled to the first linear actuator, and a second end of the tension-bearing element may be coupled to the second linear actuator. The tension-bearing element may include a variable stiffness profile such that a transmission ratio of the output hub may be adjusted based on a position of the second linear actuator relative to the output hub. |
| US09726262B1 |
Planetary gear train of automatic transmission for vehicle
A planetary gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle may include an input shaft receiving torque of an engine, an output shaft outputting torque, a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a third planetary gear set, a fourth planetary gear set, a first shaft, a second shaft, a third shaft, a fourth shaft selectively connectable to the second shaft, and directly connected to the input shaft, a fifth shaft, a sixth shaft, a seventh shaft selectively connectable to the second shaft, and an eighth shaft selectively connectable to the third shaft, and directly connected to the output shaft. |
| US09726259B1 |
Planetary gear type transmission
A first carrier rotates integrally with an input shaft. A third sun gear and a fourth sun gear rotate integrally with a first intermediate shaft. A third carrier rotates integrally with a second ring gear. A fourth carrier rotates integrally with a third ring gear, and outputs power. A first clutch couples a first ring gear and a second sun gear to the first intermediate shaft. A second clutch couples the first carrier to a second carrier. A third clutch couples the second carrier to the first intermediate shaft. A first brake brakes rotation of a first sun gear. A second brake brakes rotation of the second ring gear and the third carrier. A third brake brakes rotation of a fourth ring gear. |
| US09726252B2 |
Frequency altering brace for an electric motor
A vibration dampening brace for a motor enables altering the stiffness and reed critical frequency of a combined system of the motor and driven equipment without removal of the motor from a motor stand or support structure. The vibration dampening brace includes a first member configured to engage a portion of a housing of an electrical motor and a second member operatively connected to the first member to stiffen the bending moment of the electrical motor housing, resulting in the housing moving less with the vibrations generated by the combined system of the motor and the driven equipment. The vibration dampening brace alters the RCF of the motor system by a predetermined amount to modify the RCF of the combined system and ensure that the RCF of the combined system is outside a range of vibration frequencies that would amplify the motor vibrations. |
| US09726251B2 |
Vibration isolator
A vibration isolator includes first and second mounting members; an elastic body connecting the mounting members; a partition member partitioning a liquid chamber in the first mounting member into a primary liquid chamber using the elastic body as a part of a wall surface thereof and a secondary liquid chamber; and a movable member housed in a housing chamber provided within the partition member, the movable member being deformable or displaceable in an axial direction of the first mounting member. The partition member includes communicating holes that extend from a portion of the partition member which is exposed to the primary liquid chamber or the secondary liquid chamber toward an inside of the partition member and are opened toward the movable member. The partition member is equipped with partition plate parts dividing the housing chamber from the primary liquid chamber and dividing the housing chamber from the secondary liquid chamber. |
| US09726250B1 |
Self-tightening and wear compensating suspension mounting system
A self-tightening and wear-compensating suspension mounting system is described herein. The suspension mounting system may include a housing, a hemispherical race, a hemispherical ball, an elastomeric first bushing, two opposing couplings, and a shock absorber. The housing includes two opposing cavities. The hemispherical race is mounted within a first cavity of the two opposing cavities. The hemispherical ball is slidably mounted at least partially within the hemispherical race. The elastomeric first bushing is positioned at least partially within a second cavity of the two opposing cavities. The two opposing couplings are positioned hold the hemispherical race, the hemispherical ball, and the elastomeric first bushing between the two couplings. The shock absorber shaft extends through the two opposing cavities, the hemispherical race, the hemispherical ball, and the elastomeric first bushing. The hemispherical ball pivots within the hemispherical race responsive to movement of the shock absorber. |
| US09726247B2 |
Apparatus and method for cable dynamics suppression via non-linear flexures
Method and apparatus for suppressing cable dynamics in a device towed in water. The apparatus includes at least one section for suppression of motion, wherein the at least one section includes an axial motion suppression section; and the axial motion suppression section comprising equipment for the attenuation of axial vibrations in an electro-mechanical cable. The equipment is configured to produce a digressive stiffness curve. |
| US09726243B2 |
Disc brake pad retention system and mounting method
An apparatus and method are provided for suppressing undesired brake pad motion during brake application, and for installing and removing brake pads utilizing the inventive arrangements. One embodiment of the invention includes brake pads and a carrier mount having complementary surface features that retain the brake pad when the brake pad is in its installed position and a brake pad biasing structure that biases the brake pad in the radially outward direction to bias contact faces of the mount horn and the brake pad against one another to suppress brake pad kick and vibration and related wear and component fatigue. |
| US09726239B2 |
Clutched power transmitting device with reduced lag time for actuation
A power transmitting component can include a friction clutch, a ram, a pump, a fluid storage device and a valve. The ram can have a piston chamber and a piston movable therein between a first and second position to engage the friction clutch. A first inlet/outlet of the pump can be fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The fluid storage device can hold pressurized hydraulic fluid. The valve can be fluidly coupled with the piston chamber, a second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device. When in a first mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump and the fluid storage device, inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the pump, and inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the fluid storage device. When in a second mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump, the fluid storage device, and the piston chamber. |
| US09726235B2 |
Freewheel and freewheel arrangement
The present invention relates to a freewheel (4) having an inner ring (38), an outer ring (40) and at least one wedging element (48) between the inner ring (38) and the outer ring (40), which can be moved from a wedging position, in which the wedging element (48) prevents rotation of the outer ring (40) relative to the inner ring (38) in a first circumferential direction (24), into a release position, in which the outer ring (40) can be rotated in an opposite, second circumferential direction (26) relative to the inner ring (38), wherein the wedging element (48) is preloaded into the wedging position by means of a spring element (64). The spring element (64) has an elongate spring body (66), which extends in a radial plane and has a corrugated profile in the radial direction (20, 22). The present invention furthermore relates to a freewheel arrangement (2) having a freewheel (4) of this kind. |
| US09726234B2 |
Clutch assembly
In an aspect, a clutch assembly is provided that uses an electromagnet to generate a magnetic circuit which drives an armature to a position whereat it engages the clutch to operatively connect a rotating member to a stationary member. In embodiments wherein the armature initially rotates with the rotating member, the magnetic circuit passes through the stationary member. In embodiments wherein the armature is initially stationary, the magnetic circuit extends through the rotating member. |
| US09726231B2 |
Hybrid drivetrain and method for operating the same
A hybrid drivetrain having an internal combustion engine which is designed for a maximum internal combustion engine rotational speed; a dual-clutch arrangement which has a first friction clutch and a second friction clutch with a common input element and in each case one output element; a transmission arrangement which has a first sub-transmission and a second sub-transmission; an electric machine connected to the output element of the second friction clutch via a machine transmission ratio (iM), in such a way that a purely electric driving mode can be established via the second sub-transmission. The electric machine is designed for a maximum machine rotational speed. The maximum machine rotational speed divided by the machine transmission ratio is greater than the maximum internal combustion engine rotational speed. The output element of the second friction clutch is structurally designed for the maximum machine rotational speed divided by the machine transmission ratio (iM). |
| US09726225B2 |
Distributed load bearing with an outer flex ring
A distributed load bearing including an outer flex ring, a load distribution spring, and a retainer. The outer flex ring is configured to be positioned radially outwards of a shaft. The load distribution spring is preloaded and positioned radially outwards of the outer flex ring. A radially inner surface of the load distribution spring contacts the outer flex ring. The radially inner surface is an arc defined by a first radius when the load distribution spring is in a lower load distribution mode, and a second radius when the load distribution spring is in a higher load distribution mode. The retainer is positioned radially outwards of the load distribution spring, and the retainer angularly and radially positions the load distribution spring. |
| US09726223B2 |
Method for the production of a connecting rod for an internal combustion engine
A method for producing a connecting rod for an internal combustion engine, having a small connecting rod eye for holding a piston pin and having a large connecting rod eye for holding a crank pin, wherein at least one connecting rod eye has at least one geometric deviation from a cylindrical inner contour. It is provided according to the invention that the at least one connecting rod eye is formed by creating a bore with a cylindrical inner contour, and coating the bore with a coating comprising a resin with solid lubricant particles embedded therein. The coating forms the at least one geometric deviation from the cylindrical inner contour of the at least one connecting rod eye. |
| US09726220B2 |
Thrust foil air bearing
A thrust foil air bearing includes a bottom plate comprising a coupling portion protruding toward a rotating portion, an intermediate plate arranged above an upper surface of the bottom plate and comprising a bump foil that is elastically deformable and a first through-hole through which the coupling portion passes, and a top plate arranged above an upper surface of the intermediate plate, facing the rotating portion, and comprising a top foil arranged above the bump foil and contactable with the rotating portion and a second through-hole, through which the coupling portion passes, formed at a position corresponding to the first through-hole. The coupling portion couples the bottom plate, the intermediate plate, and the top plate to one another by passing through the first through-hole and the second through-hole. Thus, the thrust foil air bearing may be rapidly assembled without a complicated process such as welding. |
| US09726219B2 |
Thrust washer
A thrust washer for a flange half-bearing may include a semi-annular panel having an inner edge and an outer edge. A plurality of hooking lugs may project inwardly from the inner edge of the panel. The hooking lugs may have at least one latching edge configured to engage with a corresponding opening in a bearing shell received by the thrust washer and prevent disconnection of the thrust washer and the bearing shell without deformation of the bearing shell. The hooking lugs may have a hooking lug inner portion proximate to a central part of the thrust washer around the inner edge of the panel for engaging against an edge of the corresponding opening of the bearing shell, and a hooking lug outer portion remote from the central part around the inner edge of the panel. The hooking lug inner portion may be thinner than the hooking lug outer portion. |
| US09726217B2 |
Connecting rod cracking mandrel
Exemplary connecting rod cracking mandrels and methods are disclosed. A mandrel may include a pair of jaw elements slidably mounted relative to one another and separated from each other. Each one of the jaw elements has a pair of opposing side portions and a center portion disposed between the opposing side portions. Each one of the side portions is configured to contact an inner diameter surface of a bore of a connecting rod when the jaws are moved away from one another within the bore so as to break the connecting rod. The center portion is configured to be spaced apart from the inner diameter surface of the bore when the jaws are moved away from one another within the bore, such that the opposing side portions contact the connecting rod bore. |
| US09726216B2 |
Cable adjusting unit
A cable adjusting unit includes a first member, a second member and an actuator. The second member is movably arranged with respect to the first member. The actuator is operatively coupled to at least one of the first member and the second member. The actuator is arranged to relatively move the first member with respect to the second member. |
| US09726215B2 |
Force transmission unit
A force transmission unit that has a rope, particularly a wire rope, and a device for introducing a force into the rope, that includes a sleeve enclosing the rope and connected to the rope under deformation. The force transmission unit has a connecting member which is arranged between the sleeve and the rope and formed from a material that has a lower strength than the materials from which the sleeve and the outer strands of the rope are formed and which preferably has a hollow cylindrical shape. |
| US09726214B2 |
Motor planetary gear arrangement and method for connecting a motor having a planetary gear mechanism for producing a planetary gear motor assembly
Provided are variations of a motor and planetary gear assembly comprising a motor, as well as a method for producing such motor and planetary gear assemblies. |
| US09726213B2 |
Hollow board
Tips of sections in a spreading state come into contact with vertical wall portions of a middle member at positions between a first plate-like member and center portions of the vertical wall portions in the thickness direction. Then, the sections break through the vertical wall portions, and are fastened to a hollow laminated board. Thus, a mounting bracket is attached to the hollow laminated board. This makes it possible to obtain a deck board with a small recessed portion formed in a top face. |
| US09726207B2 |
Workpiece positioning structure and workpiece positioning method
A positioning structure that positions two workpieces includes a one positioning portion that is provided on one of the workpieces and includes one inverted portion and a protruding portion; and a other positioning portion that is provided on the other workpiece and includes another inverted portion and a receiving portion, the two positioning portions positioning the two workpieces, by overlapping an end portion of the one positioning portion face-to-face with an end portion of the other positioning portion. The two inverted portions are each such that alignment of the positioning portion is inverted when the one positioning portion is overlapped with the other positioning portion, the protruding portion is arranged on the end portion side of the one positioning portion and is provided protruding toward an overlapping side, and the receiving portion engages with the protruding portion when the one positioning portion is overlapped with the other positioning portion. |
| US09726206B2 |
Method of attaching an object to a panel with an adjustable tower stud assembly
An adjustable tower stud assembly is disclosed for securing an object, such as a roof rack, to an external panel such as the roof of a vehicle. The object requires more support than can be provided by the external panel and it is also connected to a sub-surface support. Upper and lower collared studs are connected by a threaded connection that allows the length of the tower stud assembly to be adjusted. Stops on a lower collar ground the tower stud assembly to the sub-surface support after the tower stud assembly is adjusted to the proper length. |
| US09726204B2 |
Fluid pressure actuator
A fluid pressure actuator including a fluid pressure cylinder having a first position detector and a second position detector, a piston body having a piston head and a rod, the piston head mounted on the rod and slidably accommodated in the fluid pressure cylinder, the rod including a first scale and a second scale, the first scale facing the first position detector and the first position detector configured to detect a position in a sliding direction of the piston body, the second scale facing the second position detector and the second position detector configured to detect a position of the rod in a rotation direction of the piston body, and a controller configured to perform a first positioning control of a position of the rod in the sliding direction and a second positioning control of the rod in the rotation direction may be provided. |
| US09726197B2 |
Turbomachine element
A turbomachine element including an airfoil set including a plurality of airfoils that are offset from one another in a lateral direction, and upstream from at least one end of each airfoil, a group of a plurality of vortex generator devices that are mutually offset both laterally and axially. |
| US09726192B2 |
Fan blades and associated blade tips
Fans having fan blades with lightweight blade tips are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, for example, each fan blade includes a blade tip attached to an end portion of a main airfoil. The blade tip includes a shaped body that is molded over a support structure to form the shape and exterior surface of the blade tip. |
| US09726191B2 |
Ceiling fan
A ceiling fan suspended by a down rod includes a motor that rotates relative to the down rod. The motor has a side extending between a top and an opposed bottom, a brace is releasably attached to top of the motor, and a blade iron is releasably attached to the bottom of the motor. A fan blade has a face plate juxtaposed along the side of the motor and is releasably attached to the blade iron. An engagement element formed in the brace mates with a complemental engagement element formed in the face plate so as to connect the brace with respect to the face plate, and the engagement element of the brace and the complemental engagement element of the face plate concurrently contact a vibration dampener applied between the engagement element and the complemental engagement element to dampen vibration between the brace and the fan blade. |
| US09726190B2 |
Propeller fan, fluid feeder, electric fan, and molding die
A propeller fan includes a boss hub portion and a blade including a front edge portion, a rear edge portion, and an outer edge portion. The outer edge portion has a front outer edge portion, a rear outer edge portion, and a connection portion connecting the front outer edge portion and the rear outer edge portion to each other. In a plan view of the blade along a central axis, a maximum radius R1max of the outer edge portion in a portion corresponding to the front outer edge portion and a maximum radius R2max of the outer edge portion in a portion corresponding to the rear outer edge portion satisfy a condition of R1max>R2max. With such a construction, a propeller fan which generates wind less in pressure fluctuation and is capable of sending comfortable wind and achieving lowering in noise is provided. |
| US09726187B2 |
Multiple turbocharger control
A turbocharger system comprises: a gas input for receiving exhaust gases from an engine; a first turbocharger comprising a first compressor driven by a first turbine, arranged to be driven by received exhaust gases and providing a compressed air output defining a boost pressure a second turbocharger, arranged to be driven by exhaust gases passing through the first turbocharger or exhaust gases received at the gas input and being coupled to an electrical generator operative to provide electrical power, the first turbine not being coupled to an electrical generator; and a controller. A diversion mechanism may be configured to affect the flow of exhaust gases between the gas input and the first turbocharger. The controller may be configured to adjust the operation of the electrical generator independently from the operating mode of the associated engine, to affect the boost pressure. |
| US09726184B2 |
Safety vacuum release system
Some embodiments of the invention provide a pumping system for at least one aquatic application. The pumping system includes a pump, a motor coupled to the pump, a user interface associated with the pump designed to receive input instructions from a user, and a controller in communication with the motor. The controller determines a power parameter associated with the motor and compares the power parameter to a predetermined threshold value. The controller triggers a safety vacuum release system based on the comparison of the power parameter and the threshold value. |
| US09726183B2 |
Systems and methods for preventing damage to pump diffusers
Systems and methods for preventing diffusers in pumps such as electric submersible pumps from bursting or collapsing in over-pressure and/or under-pressure conditions, where one or more diffusers in the pump includes check valves in the exterior diffuser wall. The check valves remain closed when a pressure differential between the diffuser interior and exterior is within a predetermined range, but open when the pressure differential between the diffuser interior and the interstitial space is outside the predetermined range to relieve overpressure and underpressure conditions. When the pressure differential returns to an acceptable range, the check valves close, preventing recirculation of fluid between the diffusers of the different stages. O-rings or other types of seals may be installed between each stage and the pump housing to provide some isolation of the external pressure on the diffuser of each stage. |
| US09726170B1 |
Rolling diaphragm seals
This document provides mechanical seals that include one or more rolling diaphragms. In one example embodiment, this document provides double rolling diaphragm seals that are usable in conjunction with various types of equipment including, but not limited to, accelerated life testing systems. In such a context, the double rolling diaphragm seals facilitate high-speed linear modulation of a variable volume pressure vessel, while maintaining precise volumetric control. Such an arrangement can facilitate an essentially frictionless linear actuation system having a long stroke, long service life, and precise volumetric control. In addition, this document provides linear actuator systems that can be used in adverse environmental conditions. |
| US09726167B2 |
Methods, circuits, devices, apparatuses, encasements and systems for identifying if a medical infusion system is decalibrated
Disclosed is an infusion pump which may include a native pumping mechanism to drive fluids through a functionally associated conduit, at least one native sensor to sense a physical characteristic of the fluid within the conduit and computing circuitry having a decalibration test mode to determine whether the infusion pump is decalibrated. The computing circuitry may be adapted to receive output from at least one native sensor during the decalibration test mode. |
| US09726166B2 |
Magnetic rotational to linear actuator for well pumps
A well pump includes a plunger reciprocally carried within a barrel between up stroke and down stroke positions. A tubular linear actuator housing located below the barrel has a rotatable rotor. An array of rotor magnets is mounted to the rotor, directing rotor magnetic fields in an outward direction. A cage is fixed against rotation relative to the housing and carried within the housing for axial movement relative to the rotor and the housing. The cage has a cylindrical inner sidewall surrounding the outer sidewall of the rotor. An array of cage magnets is mounted to the inner sidewall of the cage. The cage magnets direct cage magnetic fields in an inward direction relative to the axis. The cage and rotor magnetic fields interact such rotation of the rotor causes axial movement of the cage. A motor rotates the rotor. |
| US09726165B2 |
High-pressure air pump
A high-pressure pump includes a pump cover, an air cylinder, a piston, a water cooling device, and a pump seat. The air cylinder is formed by a first air cylinder, a second air cylinder and a third air cylinder whose diameters are progressively reduced and that are coaxially disposed. The piston is also formed by a first piston, a second piston and a third piston whose diameters are progressively reduced and that are respectively disposed in the first air cylinder, the second air cylinder and the third air cylinder. A water cooling device is disposed between the second air cylinder and the third air cylinder. |
| US09726164B2 |
Linear compressor
A linear compressor is provided that may include a shell including a refrigerant inlet, a cylinder provided within the shell, a piston reciprocated within the cylinder, the piston having a flow space in which a refrigerant may flow, a motor assembly that provides a drive force, the motor assembly including a permanent magnet, a flange that extends from an end of the piston in a radial direction, the flange having an opening that communicates with the flow space of the piston and a coupling hole defined outside of the opening, a support coupled to the coupling surface of the flange to support a plurality of springs, and at least one reinforcing rib that protrudes from the coupling surface to guide deformation of the flange while the flange and the support are coupled to each other. |
| US09726159B2 |
Arrangement for throttling a fluid flow, and corresponding piston pump for delivering fluids
An arrangement for throttling a fluid flow includes a throttle element arranged so as to influence a flow cross section in a fluid duct. The throttle element has a resiliently elastic disc-shaped basic body which is arranged with a top side and a bottom side between at least two supports in the fluid duct. The body is arranged in such a way that the flow cross section can be variably adjusted as a function of a pressure difference between the top side and the bottom side of the resiliently elastic disc-shaped basic body. At least one support bears against the top side of the resiliently elastic disc-shaped basic body, and at least one support bears against the bottom side of the resiliently elastic disc-shaped basic body. |
| US09726154B2 |
Steam power plant with integrated solar receiver
A hybrid steam power plant is disclosed using the steam generator as a sub-construction for a solar receiver. |
| US09726153B2 |
Wind turbine tower assembly
A structural tower for a wind turbine assembly, includes along at least a base section: a plurality of peripheral sections extending peripherally of a central section. Each includes a convex-shaped wall having two longitudinal side edges and an inner framework connected to a respective one of the convex-shaped walls and extending inwardly therein. The inner framework includes spaced-apart transversal structural members connecting the two longitudinal side edges of the convex-shaped walls together and pairs of connecting structural members extending inwardly towards the central section. Each connecting structural member of a pair has a peripheral end connected to a respective one of the longitudinal side edges and an inner end connected to an inner end of a respective one of the connecting structural members of an adjacent one of the peripheral sections to define a structural concavity in the structural tower between adjacent peripheral sections. |
| US09726152B2 |
Rotation driving mechanism for windmill
A rotation driving mechanism for windmill (1) includes an annular track part (2), a rotation driving part (11), and a plurality of swinging parts (15). The annular track part (2) is disposed on one of a base-side structure and a rotation-side structure, and has a circumferential wall part (4) and first teeth (7). The rotation driving part (11) is fixed on the other of the base-side structure and the rotation-side structure. Each swinging part (15) has a swinging part body (16a) and second teeth (16b). When a rotating shaft (13) of the rotation driving part (11) is rotated so that the swinging parts (15) are swung with maintaining a predetermined phase difference thereamong, the swinging parts (15) are relatively moved with respect to the annular track part (2). |
| US09726151B2 |
Assessment of rotor blades
The present invention concerns a method of optically assessing a wind power installation or a part thereof, in particular a rotor blade, including the steps: orienting a camera on to a region to be assessed, recording a photograph of the region to be assessed with the camera, detecting the position of the photographed region, and associating the ascertained position with the photographed region. |
| US09726150B2 |
Units and methods for energy storage
The invention relates to a pumped storage power plant (1) comprising at least one lower storage space (11) that is arranged underground and at least one upper storage space (12) that is separate from the lower storage space and arranged above ground or underground, wherein the lower storage space (11) is arranged in a greater depth than the upper storage space (12), and comprising at least one liquid line (15, 16) that is/are guided within the upper storage space (12) and within the lower storage space (11) respectively and that is/are connected to at least one hydraulic force and/or work machine (26, 27) of the pumped storage plant or can be connected via switchable valves (28, 29), and comprising at least one pressurized gas line (17, 18) that is/are guided within the upper storage space (12) and within the lower storage space (11) respectively and that is/are connected to a pressurized gas force and/or work machine (21, 22) of the pumped storage power plant or can be connected via switchable valves (24, 25), wherein the pumped storage power plant is configured for transporting a liquid medium (5, 7) from the upper storage space (12) into the lower storage space (11) and vice versa through the liquid lines (15, 16) and the hydraulic force and/or work machine (26, 27), and the pressurized gas force and/or working machine (21, 22) is configured for optionally producing a pressurized gas pressure of a pressurized gas (4, 6) at least in the lower storage space (11), which gas pressure can differ from a gas pressure in the upper storage space (12). Furthermore, the invention relates to a power plant and to methods for energy storage. |
| US09726147B2 |
System and method for stopping the operation of wind turbine
A method for stopping the operation of a wind turbine is disclosed. The method may generally include receiving signals associated with at least one operating condition of the wind turbine, analyzing the at least one operating condition with a controller of the wind turbine, implementing a first stopping procedure in order to stop operation of the wind turbine when analysis of the at least one operating condition indicates that a pitch system failure has occurred and implementing a second stopping procedure in order to stop operation of the wind turbine when analysis of the at least one operating condition indicates that a different wind turbine stop event has occurred. |
| US09726146B2 |
Assembly for fixing a rotor blade of a wind power plant
The invention relates to an assembly and a method of fixing a rotor blade of a wind power plant. The wind power plant comprises a rotor blade, a pitch adjustment means, a bearing for the rotor blade and a brake disk. There is an electro-mechanical brake configured to apply a controlled brake force to the brake disk that is a function of the pitch angle of the rotor blade. |
| US09726144B2 |
Method for optimizing the operation of a wind turbine
A method for optimizing the operation of a wind turbine having a rotor with at least one rotor blade, a tower, and a wind turbine controller, comprises determining a first load status of the wind turbine based on metereological data acquired by sensors, including a turbulence intensity; determining a second load status of the wind turbine based on mechanical loads on at least one wind turbine component; and increasing a load of the wind turbine, if the determined first and second load status of the turbine are within selectable load limits. A wind turbine implementing the method is also disclosed. |
| US09726142B2 |
Deployment system
A wave energy conversion system for harnessing wave energy in a body of water and converting the harnessed wave energy to pressurized fluid, and also a method of deploying such a wave energy conversion system. The wave energy conversion system comprises a unit including a buoyant structure responsive to wave motion, at least one pump and at least one tether adapted to be operably connected between the pump and a fixture below the unit, whereby movement of the buoyant structure relative to the fixture in response to wave motion converts harnessed energy to pressurized fluid. The unit is adapted to be deployed by moving the tether into coupling engagement with the fixture upon actuation of the pump in a manner causing movement of the tether into engagement with the fixture. |
| US09726137B2 |
Starting control device for internal combustion engines and starting control method
A starting control device for an internal combustion engine is provided with a hard cranking device and a soft cranking device that are respectively capable of and incapable of cranking the internal combustion engine to a target idle rotation speed. The starting control device includes: a starting mode determination unit determining whether to carry out starting in a non-combustion pressure mode whereby starting is carried out with the hard cranking device, or in a combustion pressure combination mode whereby starting is carried out through cranking with the soft cranking device while using a combustion pressure generated by supplying fuel to the internal combustion engine in combination; and an intake air amount control unit making an amount of intake air during cranking differ between a case where starting is carried out in the non-combustion pressure mode and a case where starting is carried out in the combustion pressure combination mode. |
| US09726131B2 |
Fuel injection valve
A fuel injection valve in which a valve element is formed at a distal end thereof with a flat portion 13c which is substantially parallel with an injection hole plate 11, injection hole entrances 12a are arranged inside an imaginary envelop 15 along an intersection between an extension 10b of a downstream inner wall of a seat portion of a valve seat and an upstream plane 11c of the injection hole plate and outside the flat plane at the distal end of the valve element, and the relation between the vertical distance h between the flat plane at the distal end of the valve element and the upstream plane of the injection hole plate with the valve opened and the diameter d of the injection hole entrance is h |
| US09726130B2 |
Fuel injection assembly
A fuel injection assembly comprising a fuel injector (19) having an injection outlet (19) and a fuel rail (17) in which the fuel injector is adapted to be supported. The fuel injector (19) has a tip (37) having an end from which fuel issuing from the outlet of the fuel injector is discharged. The tip (37) is adapted for location in an injection port (21), the tip being of flexible construction to accommodate some misalignment between the fuel rail (17) and the injection port (21). |
| US09726126B2 |
Fuel injector
A fuel injector includes fixed metal components, in particular an injector body, a solenoid actuator equipped with a retaining spring that holds a control valve stem, a control valve body including a seat for the control valve stem, a spacer between the body of the control valve and an injection nozzle, a control chamber, and an injection needle seat. The fuel injector also includes movable metal components, in particular the control valve stem and an armature thereof and an injection needle. Surfaces of the metal components that are in contact with one another are contact surfaces. Resistive surface coatings are arranged on a number of the contact surfaces. The overall electrical resistivity of the injector between the body of the solenoid actuator and the body of the injector varies by at least three distinct ohm values intermittently according to the kinetics of the injection needle of the injector. |
| US09726124B2 |
Intake manifold structure for engine
A structure of an intake manifold (1) for an engine is constituted of divided pieces (10, 20, 30). The structure of the intake manifold includes a gas supply hole (53) formed in a predetermined position of an outer surface of the intake manifold, and configured to supply predetermined gas from the outside, and a gas inlet passage (51) formed in predetermined joint surfaces (10m, 20m) of the divided pieces (10, 20), and configured to guide the gas supplied through the gas supply hole to a predetermined gas inlet position (11) of an intake passage (E1). |
| US09726120B2 |
Vaporized fuel processing apparatus
A vaporized fuel processing apparatus has a canister capable of adsorbing vaporized fuel generated in a fuel tank, a vapor path connecting the canister to the fuel tank, a closing valve provided in the vapor path, a purge path connecting the canister to an intake path of an engine, a pressure sensor for detecting the inner pressure of the fuel tank, and an electric control unit controlling the vaporized fuel processing apparatus. When the inner pressure of the fuel tank is in excess of the measurement range of the pressure sensor, the learning of the valve opening start position is prohibited, and pre-learning depressurization control is performed through change of the stroke amount of the closing valve in the valve opening direction until the inner pressure of the fuel tank is within the measurement range of the pressure sensor. |
| US09726119B2 |
Direct mount canister purge solenoid with additional vacuum ports
A valve assembly, such as a canister purge solenoid (CPS) having one or more interchangeable components which may be used to reconfigure the valve assembly to have one or more additional vacuum ports. The design of the valve assembly eliminates the need to mold these ports into the intake manifold, simplifying the design of the manifold, and the tooling needed to make the manifold. The direct mount design of the CPS of the present invention includes at least one additional port to serve as an additional vacuum port to be used for any other purpose, such as a PCV valve, brake booster, or the like. |
| US09726118B2 |
Exhaust gas recirculation apparatus for engine
An EGR apparatus includes a EGR passage and an EGR valve provided in the EGR passage to regulate an EGR flow rate in the EGR passage. An ECU closes the EGR valve from an open state prior to start of deceleration of the engine based on engine rotation speed detected by a rotation speed sensor, accelerator opening degree detected by an accelerator sensor, and actual opening degree of the EGR valve. During deceleration of the engine, the ECU obtains a target opening degree of the EGR valve according to the separately detected engine rotation speed and accelerator opening degree from a target opening degree map and starts to close the EGR valve when a difference between an actual opening degree and the target opening degree of the EGR valve exceeds a predetermined value. |
| US09726114B2 |
Acoustically triggered nano/micro-scale propulsion devices
Techniques, devices and systems are disclosed for implementing acoustically triggered propulsion of nano- and micro-scale structures. In one aspect, an ultrasound responsive propulsion device includes a tube that includes one or more layers including an inner layer having an electrostatic surface, and an ultrasound-responsive substance coupled to the inner layer and configured to form gaseous bubbles in a fluid in response to an ultrasound pulse, in which the bubbles exit the tube to propel the tube to move in the fluid. |
| US09726111B2 |
Discharge system of a separated twin-flow turbojet for an aircraft, corresponding turbojet and associated design method
A discharge system of a separated twin-flow turbojet for an aircraft, supported by a suspension mast, is disclosed. The system includes a main nozzle delimited by an annular cowl with a slot of annular shape defining upstream and downstream portions of the cowl and which is traversed by the suspension mast. The downstream portion of the cowl of the main nozzle includes a first part extending downstream from the upstream portion of the cowl to a trailing edge of the main nozzle, on either side of the suspension mast along two predefined angular sectors; and a second part formed from an internal contour of the slot and having a trailing edge with a diameter smaller than that of the trailing edge associated with the first part of the downstream portion of the cowl. Connecting walls laterally connect the first and second parts of the downstream portion. |
| US09726110B2 |
Aircraft propulsion system fan case comprising thrust reversing assembly
An aircraft propulsion system may include a generally annular fan case defined by a fan configured to be disposed at a forward end thereof and a stator blade array configured to be disposed at an aft end thereof, a thrust reversing assembly comprising at least a portion of the fan case, the fan case comprising a generally annular cascade array, and/or a sleeve situated at least partially about the cascade array, the sleeve configured to deploy to expose the cascade array. The aircraft propulsion system may further comprise a blocker door coupled to at least one of the cascade array and an inner surface of the fan case, the blocker door configured to deploy to redirect airflow through the cascade array. |
| US09726109B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine
A piston for an internal combustion engine may include an encircling ring section in a region of a piston crown. The piston may include a convection region, which has at least one cavity containing a heat transfer medium for dissipation of heat from the piston crown to an underside of the piston. The piston may include a heat insulating region, which is arranged between the ring section and the convection region and thermally insulates the ring section. |
| US09726106B2 |
Methods and systems for high pressure port fuel injection
Systems and methods for improving fuel injection of an engine that includes a cylinder receiving fuel from two different fuel injectors is disclosed. In one example, fuel is supplied to port fuel injectors and direct fuel injectors via a same high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure port fuel injection is activated at times where direct fuel injection would supply less fuel than is desired or an inconsistent amount of fuel. |
| US09726104B2 |
Control method of magnetic solenoid valve, control method of electromagnetically controlled inlet valve of high pressure fuel pump, and control device for electromagnetic actuator of electromagnetically controlled inlet valve
In an electromagnetically controlled inlet valve actuator provided to a high pressure fuel pump, an impinging sound which is generated at the time of operating the mechanism is reduced. In a high pressure fuel pump provided with an electromagnetically controlled inlet valve (operated by way of a plunger rod), a current supply period includes a 1st current supply period for performing an operation of attracting the plunger rod in a valve closing direction, a 2nd current supply period for alleviating a speed at which the plunger rod moves in a valve opening direction, and a limited current supply period disposed between the 1st current supply period and the 2nd current supply period in the form of spanning a pump top dead center. |
| US09726093B2 |
Apparatus for estimating exhaust gas recirculation quantity
In an EGR system, a quantity of exhaust gas passing through an EGR valve is computed by an EGR valve model simulating a behavior of the recirculated exhaust gas passing through the EGR valve. An exhaust gas quantity flowing into a cylinder is computed by an EGR-gas-delay model simulating a behavior of the exhaust gas passing through the EGR valve and the throttle valve and then flows into a cylinder. The EGR-gas-delay model includes a confluent-delay model simulating a behavior of EGR gas passing thorough the EGR valve and flowing into the intake passage upstream of the throttle valve; an intake-pipe-delay model simulating a behavior of EGR gas flowing in the intake passage and passing through the throttle valve; and an intake-manifold-delay model simulating a behavior of EGR gas which passes through the throttle valve and then flows into the intake passage downstream of the throttle valve. |
| US09726089B2 |
Method for performing a charge exchange in an internal combustion engine
A method and system for perform a charge exchange in internal combustion engine comprising an additional intake and exhaust valve lifts performed during positive pressure gradients between the intake and exhaust systems to reducing scavenging losses and increase torque during low engine speeds. |
| US09726087B2 |
Flapper assembly for a throttle valve
A method of forming a flapper assembly (200) for a throttle valve (100) is provided. The method includes steps of forming a flapper (110) comprised of hub (112) having an opening (114) and at least one vane (116a,b) coupled to the hub (112), disposing a shaft (210) in the opening (114), and pressing a punch (P) into an outer surface (112a) of the hub (112) such that a torque dimple (118) extends from the hub (112) into the shaft (210) to fasten the flapper (110) to the shaft (210). |
| US09726080B2 |
Helical cross flow (HCF) pulse detonation engine
A helical cross flow pulse detonation engine. |
| US09726079B2 |
System and method for cleaning air induction path of internal combustion engine
A system and method for cleaning deposits, such as carbon build-up, from an air induction path of a motor vehicle engine. A reservoir mounted onboard the vehicle is in fluid communication with the induction path and contains a cleaning solution. A control module activates a valve to meters a flow of the solution into an air intake plenum in response to a signal indicating a parameter related to operation of the engine. The solvent may be delivered in a quantity calculated to collect at sump of the intake plenum and be drawn into the engine when intake air flow exceeds a threshold rate. The engine-related parameter may be distance travelled by the vehicle. |
| US09726078B2 |
Apparatus with variable compression ratio and variable expansion ratio
Apparatus with variable compression ratio and variable expansion ratio for an internal combustion engine, mounted on the engine crankshaft and the assembly of the piston-connecting rod, comprising an actuating motor, a worm, a worm gear, a sun gear, a first transmission shaft, a plurality of the transmission shafts, a first eccentric sleeve, a plurality of eccentric sleeve, a front gear of the first eccentric sleeve, a plurality of the front gear of the eccentric sleeve, a plurality of the rear gear of the eccentric sleeve, a planetary gear, the rear gear of the first transmission shaft, a plurality of the front gear of the transmission shaft, and a plurality of the rear gear of the transmission shaft. An angle α between the axis of the first transmission shaft and the axis of the crankshaft is not zero, the other axes of the transmission shafts with the axis of the crankshaft coincide, or parallel but do not coincide, or form a non zero angle. |
| US09726061B2 |
Method for operating a dosing device and motor vehicle having a dosing device
A method for operating a dosing device for metering an additive to an exhaust-gas treatment device includes determining a dosing amount of additive required by the exhaust-gas treatment device in step a). Subsequently, in step b), an operating mode for the dosing device is determined by carrying out at least steps b.1) and b.2). In step b.1), at least one characteristic operating value of at least one component of the dosing device is provided being definitive of a degree of aging of the dosing device. In step b.2), an operating mode for the dosing device is set in dependence on the characteristic operating value from step b.1). In step c), the dosing device is operated with the set operating mode so that the dosing amount required in step a) is supplied to the exhaust-gas treatment device. A motor vehicle having a dosing device is also provided. |
| US09726056B2 |
High efficiency oil circuit
In at least one implementation, an engine oil circuit for a vehicle includes first and second oil circuits, and first and second oil pumps. The first oil circuit is communicated with at least one first engine component and the first oil pump is communicated with the first oil circuit to supply fluid flow in the first oil circuit at a first flow rate and a first pressure. The second oil circuit is communicated with at least one second engine component and may be segregated from the first oil circuit. The second oil pump is communicated with the second oil circuit to supply fluid flow in the second oil circuit at a second flow rate and a second pressure. At least one of the second flow rate or the second pressure is different than the first flow rate or the first pressure. |
| US09726055B2 |
Poppet valve
A poppet valve includes a head and a stem, which extends from the head. At least a part of the back of the head is covered by a cover with a heat insulating space provided in between. A support portion is provided between the cover and the head to support the cover on the head with rubber member having a lower heat conductivity than that of the head between the cover and the head. |
| US09726053B2 |
Valve opening/closing timing control device
A valve opening/closing timing control device includes: an intermediate lock mechanism switchable between a locked state constraining a relative rotation phase to an intermediate locked phase, and an unlocked state releasing the constraint; a phase control unit controlling fluid supply to a retard chamber and fluid discharge from an advance chamber, or controlling fluid discharge from the retard chamber and fluid supply to the advance chamber, such that the lock member attains the intermediate locked phase; and a determination unit determining whether the lock member will attain the determination phase, when control has been performed to move the lock member toward a determination phase that has been set at a different position than the intermediate locked phase, after execution of control to either supply fluid to the retard chamber and discharge fluid from the advance chamber, or discharge fluid from the retard chamber and supply fluid to the advance chamber. |
| US09726052B2 |
Rocker arm assembly and components therefor
A method of precision manufacture of an outer arm of a rocker arm assembly is performed by determining structures of a rough outer arm that would require precision processing and locations to support the structures as they are processed. Starting with at least one structure requiring precision processing, locations on the outer arm close to the structure to hold the outer arm during processing are determined that would cause minimal distortion of the outer arm during processing. The outer arm is then provided with clamping lobes at these locations. The clamping lobes of the outer arm are clamping into a fixture for manufacturing. The slider pad may now be precision ground while the outer arm is clamped in the fixture with minimal risk of distortion of the outer arm. |
| US09726051B2 |
Tensioner with increased damping
In an aspect, a tensioner for an endless drive member, comprising a shaft and base that are mountable to be stationary relative to an engine, a tensioner arm that is pivotable relative to the shaft about a tensioner arm axis, a pulley on the tensioner arm rotatable about a pulley axis that is offset from the tensioner arm axis, and that is engageable with an endless drive member, a bushing that is positioned radially between the pulley and the tensioner arm to support the pulley radially during relative rotation between the pulley and the tensioner arm, a tensioner spring that is positioned to urge the tensioner arm towards a free arm position, a damping element that engages the tensioner arm and that is engaged by a plurality of axially spaced segments of the tensioner spring. |
| US09726050B2 |
Versatile pinch point avoidance recuperator for supercritical carbon dioxide power generation systems
A supercritical carbon dioxide power generation Brayton cycle system and method that employs an alternate heat recuperation method and apparatus that utilizes switched banks of bead filled tanks to accumulate and recover the thermal energy of the two streams of working fluid in such a way that the variable thermal properties of the supercritical carbon dioxide can be accommodated without significant loss of thermal efficiency. |
| US09726049B2 |
Waste heat recovery apparatus
Disclosed is a waste heat recovery apparatus which comprises: a gas-liquid separator; an expander into which a gaseous working medium separated by the gas-liquid separator flows; a driven machine; a condenser; a first pump; a first heater; a circulation flow passage for serially connecting the gas-liquid separator, the expander, the condenser, the first pump and the first heater in this order; a heat recovery flow passage for allowing a liquid working medium discharged from the gas-liquid separator to merge with the working medium flowing in a portion between the first heater and the gas-liquid separator in the circulation flow passage; and a second pump. |
| US09726040B2 |
Fluid delivery system for a gas turbine engine
A fluid delivery assembly for delivering fluid to a component in a gas turbine engine includes a rotating shaft having a central bore and at least one fluid exhaust in communication with the central bore for centrifugally expelling fluid, and a delivery scoop disposed around the rotating shaft and spaced apart from the rotating shaft by an annular gap. The delivery scoop includes an annular body having at least one impingement surface facing the at least one fluid exhaust and configured to scoop the fluid expelled by the at least one fluid exhaust. The impingement surface has at least one outlet for delivering the scooped fluid to the component. A method of delivering pressurised fluid in a fluid system is also presented. |
| US09726031B2 |
Piston ring coated carbon seal
A seal assembly for separating a relatively high pressure area from a relatively low pressure area includes a first seal carrier having a circumferential body that has a land thereon and a seal. The seal has a circumferential body located within the first seal carrier, the seal having a first surface for sealing against the first land and a second surface and wherein one of the first surface or the first land has an unmachined wear coating that resists fretting and vibration. |
| US09726030B2 |
Flow deflector arrangement
A flow deflector arrangement is used in combination with a pipe arrangement secured through a component, the flow deflector arrangement comprising: a nut to secure the pipe arrangement to the component, and a shroud for attachment to the component so as to extend at least partially around the pipe arrangement when the pipe arrangement is secured to the component by the nut. The nut has an outwardly directed flange to adopt a position spaced from the component, and the shroud defines at least one deflector surface which, when the shroud is attached to the component, extends away from the component in spaced relation to the pipe arrangement. The flange and the deflector surface cooperate in deflecting a flow of fluid flowing from the component and along the outside of the pipe arrangement such that the flow is deflected generally outwardly from the pipe arrangement with a degree of swirl. |
| US09726028B2 |
Ductile alloys for sealing modular component interfaces
A vane assembly (10) having: an airfoil (12) and a shroud (14) held together without metallurgical bonding there between; a channel (22) disposed circumferentially about the airfoil (12), between the airfoil (12) and the shroud (14); and a seal (20) disposed in the channel (22), wherein during operation of a turbine engine having the vane assembly (10) the seal (20) has a sufficient ductility such that a force generated on the seal (20) resulting from relative movement of the airfoil (12) and the shroud (14) is sufficient to plastically deform the seal (20). |
| US09726025B2 |
Ceramic matrix composite
A novel ceramic matrix composite is disclosed for forming components that are operable in high temperature environments such those in gas turbine engines and the like. The ceramic matrix composite can include at least one layer of non-crimped fibers positioned substantially parallel to one another. A relatively small diameter elastic fiber can be constructed to stitch the non-crimped fibers together and a ceramic matrix may be deposited around the at least one layer of non-crimped fibers. |
| US09726022B2 |
Axially-split radial turbines
Embodiments of an axially-split radial turbine, as are embodiments of a method for manufacturing an axially-split radial turbine. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of joining a forward bladed ring to a forward disk to produce a forward turbine rotor, fabricating an aft turbine rotor, and disposing the forward turbine rotor and the aft turbine rotor in an axially-abutting, rotationally-fixed relationship to produce the axially-split radial turbine. |
| US09726018B2 |
Scroll type fluid machine with a rotation stopping mechanism
A scroll type fluid machine (1) including a rotation stopping mechanism (36) for stopping rotation of a movable scroll without hindering revolving motion of the movable scroll (16) relative to a fixed scroll (14) fixed to a casing (4), the rotation stopping mechanism includes: a support hole (42) drilled in either one of a base plate (16a) of the movable scroll and a pedestal part (4a) of the casing; a rotation stopping pin (38) that is fitted into the support hole, and is protruded to the side of the other of the base plate and the pedestal part; a restriction hole (46) drilled in the other of the base plate and the pedestal part, and loosely fitted with the rotation stopping pin; and a buffer member (44) interposed between the support hole and the rotation stopping pin. |
| US09726015B2 |
Mineral material processing method and processing plant
In a mineral material processing method, mineral material is processed in a mineral material processing plant. Heat generated in heat sources of the processing plant and/or fuel used in a motor of the processing plant is cooled in a cooler of the processing plant. The cooler is equipped with a blower. Wetting water is directed to the mineral material for binding dust generated in the processing. Heat of at least one heat source of the processing plant and/or heat of the fuel is transferred to the wetting water before using the wetting water for dust binding. The wetting water is directed, before the dust binding, to a first heat exchanger for receiving heat in the wetting water. |
| US09726010B2 |
Estimation of multichannel mud characteristics
The disclosure is directed to method and apparatus for communication through a fluid. The method includes measuring signals in the fluid at at least two spaced apart positions; estimating a subset of a separation matrix; and using the estimated subset and the signals to estimate a signal sent by the message source. The apparatus may include a message source on a bottom hole assembly; sensors disposed at least two spaced apart locations; and at least one processor configured to: estimate a subset of a separation matrix based on the signals and use the subset to estimate a message signal set by the message source. |
| US09726006B2 |
Kinetic penetrator beacons for multistatic geophysical sensing
A kinetic penetrator for multistatic geophysical sensing includes a tubular body having a first end and a second end, a nose coupled to the first end of the tubular body, and a sensing element coupled to at least one of the tubular body and the nose. The nose is configured to penetrate a ground surface and subsurface materials of a subterranean ground volume. The sensing element is configured to interface with an external geophysical sensing system. |
| US09726002B2 |
Water treatment in at least one membrane filtration unit for enhanced hydrocarbon recovery
A water treatment method includes: withdrawing water from the environment; filtering the withdrawn water in a membrane filtration unit; extracting a production flow from an underground formation containing hydrocarbons; separating and collecting production water from the production flow; filtering the production flow in the membrane filtration unit; collecting a treated water flow from the membrane filtration unit. An installation adapted for applying this method is also provided. |
| US09725996B2 |
Electrical submergible pumping system using a power crossover assembly for a power supply connected to a motor
An electric submergible pumping system that includes a pump having a pump discharge; a motor; a power crossover assembly including a first top flange having a generally circular opening in the center, an upper tubular portion connected to the first top flange portion, an intermediate tubular portion including two generally rectangular shaped windows for intake suction for production fluids, a lower tubular portion having a hollow space in a center portion, and a first lower flange having a circular shape connected to the lower tubular portion. The system also includes a crossover base disposed at a lower part of the power crossover assembly, the crossover base including a base neck, a guide tube, a conductor terminal, a second top flange, and a second lower flange. |
| US09725995B2 |
Bottle chamber gas lift systems, apparatuses, and methods thereof
Applicants have created systems, methods, and apparatuses for increasing the production of fluid from a subterranean well. The system can include a controller and upper and lower portions. The upper portion can include an injection valve for regulating the amount of a first gas injected into an injection conduit. The lower portion can include a chamber valve for regulating the flow of a second gas through an upper tubing string and a vent valve for regulating the flow of the first gas and a standing valve. The collected fluid creates pressure in the lower portion causing the second gas to flow from the lower tubing string to the upper tubing string. The controller controls the injection valve and is coupled to a pressure gauge for measuring pressure in the lower portion. With the aid of this system, well operators can increase production of subterranean well formations, such as gas wells, without increasing backpressure on those formations. |
| US09725994B2 |
Flow control assembly actuated by pilot pressure
A flow control assembly can include a pilot-operated valve and a pilot control valve. The pilot-operated valve includes a closure element between inlet port and outlet ports of the pilot-operated valve and an actuating element adjacent to the closure element. The closure element can move between an open position allowing fluid flow between the inlet and outlet ports and a closed position preventing fluid flow between the inlet and outlet ports. A pilot pressure communicated to the actuating element can cause the actuating element to apply force that moves the closure element to the open position. The pilot control valve can include a closure element between inlet port and outlet ports of the pilot control valve. Communicating an actuation pressure to the closure element of the pilot control valve can open the pilot control valve. Opening the pilot control valve can allow communication of pilot pressure to the pilot-operated valve. |
| US09725991B2 |
Screened communication connector for a production tubing joint
In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a screened communication connector for a production tubing joint is disclosed. The screened communication connector including a hollow body including a plurality of holes to block particulate material from passing therethrough and allow fluid to pass therethrough. The screened communication connector additionally includes a first axial end of the hollow body including a first seal member for creating a particle tight seal between the first axial end and a first screen joint. The screened communication connector additionally includes a second axial end of the hollow body, the second axial end including a second seal member for creating a particle tight seal between the second axial end and a second screen joint. |
| US09725989B2 |
Sand control screen having improved reliability
A sand control device is used for restricting the flow of particles from a subsurface formation into a tubular body within a wellbore during production operations. The sand control device is divided into compartments along its length that provide redundancy for particle filtration. Each compartment first comprises a base pipe. The base pipe defines an elongated tubular body having a permeable section and an impermeable section within each compartment. Each compartment also comprises a first filtering conduit and a second filtering conduit. The filtering conduits comprise filtering media and generally circumscribe the base pipe. The filtering conduits are arranged so that the first filtering conduit is adjacent to the non-permeable section of the base pipe, while the second filtering conduit is adjacent to the permeable section of the base pipe. |
| US09725987B2 |
System and method for performing wellbore stimulation operations
A method of performing a stimulation operation for a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore is provided. The method involves collecting pressure measurements of an isolated interval of the wellbore during injection of an injection fluid therein, generating a fracture closure from the pressure measurements, generating transmissibility based on the fracture closure and a mini fall off test of the isolated interval during the injection, obtaining fracture geometry from images of the subterranean formation about the isolated interval, and generating system permeability from the transmissibility and the fracture geometry. The method may also involve deploying a wireline stimulation tool into the wellbore, isolating an interval of the wellbore and injecting fluid into the interval with the wireline stimulation tool. The fracture geometry may be obtained by imaging the formation, and fracture geometry may be obtained from core sampling. |
| US09725986B2 |
Multi-functional surfactant complexes for use in subterranean formations
Systems and methods for creating and/or using multi-functional surfactant complexes that may enhance surfactant treatments in subterranean formations are provided. In some embodiments, the methods comprise: providing a treatment fluid comprising an aqueous base fluid and one or more multi-functional surfactant complexes that comprise at least one surfactant and at least one polymeric additive, wherein the surfactant and the polymeric additive carry opposite charges; and introducing the treatment fluid into a well bore at a well site penetrating at least a portion of a subterranean formation. |
| US09725985B2 |
Inflow control device having externally configurable flow ports
A completion joint 100 has a sand control jacket 120 and an inflow control device 130. The jacket 120 communicates screened fluid with a housing of the inflow control device 130. The basepipe's flow openings 118 are isolated in the housing from the screened fluid by flow devices 170. The flow devices 170 are externally accessible on the device's housing to selectively configure the flow devices 170 open or closed. |
| US09725971B2 |
System and method for continuous circulation
Present embodiments are directed to a circulation system including a circulation management system. A housing of a coupling feature of the circulation management system is configured to extend over a box end of a pipe element. A seal disposed within the housing is configured to engage with a face of the box end. A force-application feature is configured to force the seal against the face of the box end to establish a sealed engagement between the circulation management system and the pipe element. A flow path of the circulation management system extends through the housing and the seal, wherein the flow path facilitates fluid flow into the pipe element from the circulation management system when the sealed engagement is established. A port to the flow path is configured to couple with a fluid flow supply feature. |
| US09725967B2 |
Centralizers for centralizing well casings
A centralizer for centralizing a pipe downhole in a well is provided. The centralizer includes a plurality of arcuate cuffs having first and second ends. The cuffs are affixed adjacent to the pipe's exterior wall, and positioned circumferentially adjacent around the pipe. The cuffs are flexible so as to be positioned in a first condition wherein the cuffs are retracted radially inward so as to be substantially flat against the pipe's exterior wall. The centralizer includes a lock for maintaining the cuffs substantially flat against the pipe's exterior wall until the centralizer has been transported downhole. Further, the centralizer includes an actuator for unlocking the lock so as to allow the cuffs to expand radially outward to form a loop wherein the loop has a central axis parallel to pipe's longitudinal axis. Preferably, the centralizer includes a collar causing the cuffs to all expand or retract together. |
| US09725961B2 |
Fairing
A fairing device for the reduction of vortex-induced vibrations or motions and the minimization of drag about a substantially cylindrical element immersed in a fluid medium, comprising; a cylindrical element, a fairing rotatably mounted about the cylindrical element, the fairing comprising a shell with a cylindrical cross-sectional shape with an outer diameter (D) following the outer diameter of the cylindrical element from an upward stagnation point of 0 degrees to at least +/−90 degrees, and which at +/−90 degrees continues as two fin-like portions in an aft direction and defining a chord length (C), further comprising that the fin-like portions are convexly curved aft of +/−90 degrees thus tapering towards each other and defining a tail end opening or gap less than the fairing standoff height. |
| US09725952B2 |
Motorized shade with transmission wire passing through the support shaft
A roll shade system is disclosed. The roll shade system includes a motor configured to remain stationary during operation of the motor, a support shaft supporting the motor wherein the support shaft is configured to remain stationary during operation of the motor, and a roll shade tube configured to be rotatable about the motor and the support shaft during operation of the motor. The roll shade system further includes stationary components including a wiring connector, an input wiring system, a bearing, an antenna, a coaxial cable, a motor controller, a counterbalance spring. The roll shade system also includes rotatable components including a bearing housing and one or more O-rings. |
| US09725950B2 |
Light block hem seal and method of manufacture
A shade for covering a window, a door, or a wall opening is provided comprising a shade material forming a shade portion and an integral hem bar assembly constructed by folding a bottom portion of the shade material. The hem bar assembly comprises an outer laterally extending pocket that envelopes an inner laterally extending pocket. Upon meeting a horizontal surface, the outer pocket of the hem bar assembly deflects and conforms to the horizontal surface to eliminate any light gap between the hem bar assembly and the horizontal surface without causing the shade portion of the shade material to buckle or ripple. The hem bar assembly is constructed such that no excess material, edges, or ends appear on the front surface of the shade material. |
| US09725948B2 |
High efficiency roller shade and method for setting artificial stops
The present invention advantageously provides a motorized roller shade that includes a shade tube, a motor/controller unit and a power supply unit. The motor/controller unit is disposed within the shade tube, and includes a bearing, rotatably coupled to a support shaft, and a DC gear motor. The output shaft of the DC gear motor is coupled to the support shaft such that the output shaft and the support shaft do not rotate when the support shaft is attached to the mounting bracket. |
| US09725947B2 |
Roll up door assembly with orientable illumination
A lighted roll up door assembly may include a roll up door including interconnected slats movable along tracks, and a lighting element configured to be attached to an exterior side of the roll up door. The lighting element can be mounted so as to direct a substantial portion of the light output toward the roll up door and below a horizontal direction so as to light a portion of the door and an adjacent area below the door at least partially by reflection when the door is in a closed position and so as to light an area on an interior side of the roll up door when the door is in a opened position. The lighting element may be mounted to a fixed or movable member attached to a slat of the roll up door. |
| US09725943B2 |
Control device
A control device includes: an input unit to which a first signal is input from a detection unit detecting an operation for an opening-closing body; and a control unit generates a second signal for operating the opening-closing body, based on the first signal, wherein the control unit can be switched between a first power consumption mode and a second power consumption mode in which less power is consumed, and the control unit can be switched between a first state where the second power consumption mode is switched to the first power consumption mode, based on a first condition, and a second state where the second power consumption mode is switched to the first power consumption mode, based on a second condition on which the second power consumption mode is less likely to be switched to the first power consumption mode. |
| US09725939B2 |
Rotatable hinge
A hinge is disclosed including a first connecting plate, a second connecting plate, a hinge element rotatably coupling said first and second connecting plates, a first pin coupled to the first connecting plate, wherein said first pin extends through a first end of the hinge element, a locking bracket coupled to the second connecting plate, and a second pin coupled to a second end of the hinge element, wherein said second pin extends through the locking bracket. The hinge optionally includes one or more friction locks, cableways, or cable tabs. |
| US09725938B2 |
Luggage door hinge
A luggage door hinge includes: a front side attachment section configured to be rotatably supported by a vehicle body; a rear side attachment section that extends along a vehicle body front-rear direction in a closed state of a luggage door that opens and closes a luggage room, and is configured to be fixed to the luggage door; a curved section that curves in a substantially circular arc shape between the front side attachment section and the rear side attachment section, toward a vehicle body lower side in the closed state of the luggage door; and a coupling member that couples together an intermediate portion of the curved section and the rear side attachment section. |
| US09725937B2 |
Mattress structure and hinge mechanism
A hinge mechanism and mattress for use with a child containment device. A first mattress panel is pivotally coupled to a second mattress panel by a hinge mechanism, and is thereby convertible between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The hinge mechanism defines a limit point beyond which pivotal motion is prevented in at least one direction. |
| US09725936B2 |
Door catch
Disclosed is a door catch that can help to prevent door sag, especially for heavy or tall residential or commercial doors, and provides for post-installation catch tension adjustment without removal or adjustment of mounting members. In one aspect, the door catch can include a ball catch base, a threaded ball plunger assembly, a catch bumper, and a bumper base. In another aspect, the catch bumper and the bumper base can optionally be combined into a single catch bar bracket. The ball plunger assembly is adjustably mounted within a threaded aperture of ball catch base. A ball captive in one end of the ball plunger assembly engages a detent in the catch bumper, or catch bar bracket, providing friction to hold the door open. The position of the ball plunger assembly can be adjusted vertically to increase or decrease the tension between the detent and the ball plunger assembly. |
| US09725935B2 |
Safety stop for a sliding door or window
A safety stop device for limiting the movement of a window or sliding door that is fitted with a glass pane. The safety stop has a housing with a top plate. The top plate is flat. Support walls extend from the top plate and terminate in a common plane. A protected area is defined between the support walls and under the top plate. A suction cup is disposed within the protected area. A suction control assembly is coupled to the top plate. The suction control assembly selectively controls air pressure within the suction cup when the suction cup is engaged with the glass pane. |
| US09725928B2 |
Adjustment plate gauge insert and adapter for hands-free lock installation
A door lock chassis has a gauge insert that defines different dimensions corresponding to different door thicknesses. The gauge insert is positionable in the lock chassis in different orientations corresponding to the different dimensions used to align the lock chassis for different door thicknesses. Additionally, a door lock may include an anti-rotation assembly for preventing rotation of the lock chassis. The anti-rotation assembly may include a retention member that is secured to an inside hub of a lock chassis. As an anti-rotation member is displaced in a first axial direction along the inside hub to a mount position, the anti-rotational member may deflect resilient members of the retention member. With the anti-rotation member at the mounted position, the anti-rotation member may be in a frictional engagement with the previously deflected resilient members so that anti-rotation member is retained at the mount position. |
| US09725919B1 |
Hot tub cover and method of using the same
A cover for a hot tub or spa is disclosed having a flat cross beam positioned across on a first axis of the tub, the flat cross beam having first and second ends, and being configured to support an interior cover, a curved joist disposed above the flat cross beam, and arranged in substantially the same plane as the cross beam, and pivotably connected to the flat cross beam at respective first and second ends, the curved joists being configured to support an exterior cover, a vertical connector engaged to the flat cross beam on one end and engaged to the curved joist on a second end, wherein upon applied motive force in a direction, the vertical connector is configured to collapse and flatten the exterior cover. A method of using the same is also disclosed. |
| US09725916B2 |
Safety band longitudinal and transverse control
This invention provides fall protection systems comprising a suspension fabric, supported by a grid-work of longitudinal and lateral bands, in metal building construction. The fall protection system uses the combination of relatively softer banding, a safety band spaced a particular distance from each rafter, and safety clips to attach the safety bands to the intermediate purlins, thus to distribute the force of impact of a load, falling close to a rafter, to better absorb and dissipate the force of the impact, including distributing the impact of the falling load over a greater area of the roof structure. The invention further provides methods of making elements of such systems, methods of installing elements of such systems, and buildings embodying such systems. |
| US09725914B2 |
Installation assist and method
The application is directed to a device for assisting individuals with the installation of one or more construction materials. The device is operationally configured to support construction materials at an elevated position. The device is also operationally configured to be attached to horizontal surfaces, vertical surfaces and angled surfaces. |
| US09725913B2 |
Process for producing panels with footfall and ambient sound deadening
A panel has an upper side facing the room in the use position and a lower side facing the floor. The lower side is coated, at least in sections, with a bonding layer composed of polymer. The bonding layer has an uneven surface on the outer side facing away from the panel, and has been coated at least in sections with a damping layer composed of polymer. A covering composed of panels, a process and an apparatus for producing the panels are also described. |
| US09725912B2 |
Mechanical locking system for floor panels
Floor panels are shown, which are provided with a vertical folding locking system on short edges that only locks vertically and a mechanical locking system on long edges that prevents displacement along the long edges. |
| US09725907B2 |
Fire retardant roofing system, shingle and layer
Roofing shingle layers, roofing shingles, and roofing systems having fire retardant properties are provided. In certain exemplary embodiments, the roofing shingle layers, roofing shingles, or roofing systems include an expandable fire retardant material. The expandable fire retardant material may comprise expandable graphite, ammonium polyphosphate, or a combination thereof. |
| US09725903B2 |
System for retrofitting and enhancing the thermal resistance of roofs and walls of buildings
An insulating system for retrofitting the roof and/or walls of a building. The retrofit system includes a first layer of insulating material extending transverse to the purlins, girts and chords and atop the existing roof or wall structure as well as a plurality of longitudinally extending bridge members each with an upper and a lower surface. The system also includes a plurality of orthogonally extending spacer members that compresses the first layer of insulating material proximate to the spacer members and allowing an otherwise uncompressed first insulation layer to span between the spacer members. The system further includes a second layer of insulation extending across the upper surface of the bridge members wherein a plurality of panel clips each with a panel clip tab are disposed atop the second layer of insulation and are fastened to the bridge member and the clip tabs engage with the lateral edges of the roof or wall panels in the formation of a water resistant seam. |
| US09725901B2 |
Composite board
A composite board is formed from binding a cover layer to a base layer, wherein the base layer has a composition comprising one or more of the following ingredients: magnesium oxide, recycled magnesium oxide, fibrous chips, wood chips, bamboo chips, chemical additive and water. A method of manufacturing the composite board includes providing the base layer, which includes preparing a semi-arid mixture of the above ingredients, and pouring the mixture through a funnel onto a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt passes the mixture through a series of rollers to remove excess liquid. The layer is cut into panels, which are heat before being sprayed with dried magnesium oxide. A binding agent is applied to one side of the base layer. The cover layer has a bottom surface which is then aligned and bonded to one side of the base layer. |
| US09725899B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for temporary floor assembly
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for removably deploying a floor assembly from a compacted state to a deployed state by varying tensioning forces to removably interconnected individual floor segments. |
| US09725897B2 |
Open and closed cell polyurea foams
An open cell spray polyurea foam for use in an insulation layer in a wall structure may include a polyurea. The polyurea may be a reaction product of an isocyanate compound and water. The open spray polyurea foam may also include a filler. The majority of the filler may exist in the spray foam formulation as an unreacted first fire retardant. The spray foam formulation may further comprise a second fire retardant, and the insulation layer may exhibit a fire retardancy sufficient to pass Appendix X and/or ASTM E-84. |
| US09725894B2 |
Fluid backflow management system and method of use thereof
An apparatus for continuously controlling fluid flow in a sewer conduit, comprising: a) moisture sensors detecting levels of fluid in this conduit; b) an inflatable bladder, mounted in the sewer conduit for releasably sealing in fluid tight fashion a section of this conduit; a compressed air source for inflating the bladder; and a control box including a CPU sensitive to the moisture sensor(s) and actuating the air compressor responsively to conduit fluid level conditions reaching beyond a preset threshold value. The performance of the apparatus is independent of the speed of fluid flow in the sewer conduit. |
| US09725893B2 |
System for flushing a toilet
A system for flushing a toilet having a pump in fluid communication with a floatable, adjustably buoyant container by being connected with a tube to such floatable, adjustably buoyant container. The floatable, adjustably buoyant container is located inside the water tank of a toilet having a flapper covering the discharge hole in the tank of the toilet and is attached to such flapper. The pump provides a fluid less dense than water to the floatable, adjustably buoyant container and thereby raise the flapper and allow water to proceed through the discharge hole. When the fluid is allowed to leave the floatable, adjustably buoyant container, the flapper is lowered and again seals the discharge hole. An optional embodiment withdraws fluid from a normally inflated resilient container seated within the discharge hole to diminish the size of such normally inflated resilient container and thereby permit water to flow through the discharge hole. |
| US09725891B2 |
Mixing faucet provided with a filter
The faucet comprises a body having a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet and a service water outlet, and housing a monocontrol mechanism, for blocking and liberating the communication between the cold water inlet and/or hot water inlet with the service water outlet; a tubular column, coupled to the body and open to the service water outlet, and onto which is mounted a first head carrying a service radial spout connected to the service water outlet; a filter cartridge mounted in the interior of the tubular column, inferiorly connected to the cold water inlet and onto which is mounted a second head which carries a filtrate radial spout connected to the outlet nozzle of the filter cartridge; and a filtrate cock for blocking and liberating the fluid communication between the cold water inlet and the filtrate radial spout. |
| US09725889B2 |
Trim system for fluid control valve
A trim system for a fluid control valve that includes a first stem driver coupled to a first actuator of the valve, a cage coupled to the first stem driver, a first handle coupled to the cage, a second stem driver coupled to a second actuator of the valve, and a second handle coupled to the second stem driver. The first stem driver and the cage are configured to compensate for axial and angular misalignment between the first handle and the first actuator, and the second stem driver and the second handle are configured to compensate for axial and angular misalignment between the second handle and the second actuator. Rotation of the first handle is configured to rotate the first actuator through the first stem driver and the cage, and rotation of the second handle is configured to rotate the second actuator through the second stem driver. |
| US09725883B2 |
Machine power control with ratio increase
A control system for a machine having a power source configured to provide power, a number of implements including a work implement, configured to provide operations, and a number of power transmitting paths configurable to selectively make power available to the implements to perform operations. The control system may include a control arrangement configured to regulate the power source to provide a first level of available power, to configure a first power transmitting path to make a percentage A1 of said first level of power available to provide a first operation, and to configure a second power transmitting path to make a percentage A2 of said first level of power available to provide a second operation, at least the second operation being a work operation. The control arrangement may further be configured to increase said first level of available power of said power source to a second level of available power, to configure the first power transmitting path to make a percentage B1 of said second level op power available to provide said first operation, and to configure the second power transmitting path to make a percentage B2 of said second level of power available to provide said second operation, such that the ratio B2/B1 is greater than the ratio A2/A1. |
| US09725879B2 |
Portable power supply system for an electrically driven work machine and a work machine equipped with such a power supply system
The invention concerns a portable power supply system (30) intended to supply a remotely controlled, electrically driven work machine (1) with electrical power, where the work machine is of the type that demonstrates a propulsion means that includes continuous tracks (8b) and is equipped with a maneuverable arm (10) intended to carry a tool at its free end, and electric motor (19) that is connected to a hydraulic pump (20) and is intended to supply the operating means (8c, 10a) of the machine with a hydraulic medium, whereby the work machine is intended to be connected under normal operation to a primary source of power (30a) via an electrical cable (2′), which primary source of power includes a fixed alternating current electricity distribution grid at the location. In order to be able to supply the current that is required it comprises a DC energy-storage arrangement (29) that, including a secondary source of power (30b), can store energy and, when necessary, supply energy in electrical form; a coupling arrangement (31, 33, 34, 34′) that makes it possible to choose between connecting the primary (30a) or the secondary (30b) source of power to the electric motor in order to drive the same. |
| US09725877B2 |
Underwater trenching apparatus
An apparatus for forming a trench along the bed of a body of water for burying a line lying along such bed including a support structure designed to straddle such line, means for propelling such structure straddling such line and means disposed on such structure including a pair of transversely spaced excavator devices cooperable in forming a trench along the bed of such body of water for receiving such line, each provided with a set of circumferentially spaced, pressurized fluid ejecting nozzles, rotatable about an axis. |
| US09725875B2 |
Implement end bit wear member
A wear member for an earth-working implement including a body having front, rear, top, bottom, inner side and outer side portions. The wear member includes a front bottom edge, a front top edge, a front inner side edge, and a front outer side edge. The wear member includes a front face on the front portion between the front inner side edge, the front outer side edge, the front top edge, and the front bottom edge. The wear member includes a front lower cutout edge and a front cutout. The wear member includes a front lower surface and includes a front cutout surface defined by the front cutout between the front lower cutout edge and the front top edge. The body is configured to be mounted to a mounting edge of the earth-working implement such that the front face faces a direction away from the earth-working implement. |
| US09725874B2 |
Area limiting excavation control system for construction machines
An area limiting excavation control system for construction machines including a control unit (9) that performs area limiting control by controlling at least one of a plurality of hydraulic cylinders (3a, 3b, 3c) on the basis of a posture and a position of each of a boom (1a), an arm (1b), and a bucket (1c). The control system includes an angle sensor group (8) that detects rotational angles of the boom (1a), the arm (1b), and the bucket (1c), and a tilting angle sensor group (81) that detects ground angles of the boom (1a), the arm (1b), and the bucket (1c). The control unit (9) selects, from among the angle sensor group (8) and the tilting angle sensor group (81), a sensor to be used for calculating a posture and a position of each of the boom (1a), the arm (1b), and the bucket (1c) in accordance with a magnitude of speed of at least one of the boom (1a), the arm (1b), and the bucket (1c). |
| US09725869B2 |
Building assembly for greenhouses and other buildings
This disclosure relates to a building assembly including a first upright, a first pivot mechanism, a second pivot mechanism, a first structure, and a second structure. The first upright is pivotally movable with the first pivot mechanism relative to the first structure. The first upright is also pivotally movable with the second pivot mechanism relative to the second structure. |
| US09725868B2 |
Offshore support structure
A support structure for an offshore device is provided, including a vertical guide sleeve and three elongated guide sleeves positioned around the vertical guide sleeve, and various braces connecting the elongated sleeves and the vertical guide sleeve. The support structure also includes a transition joint including a cylindrical portion for connection to an offshore device, such as a support tower of a wind turbine assembly, and a conical portion connected to the vertical guide sleeve. To provide resistance to thrust, bending, and torsional fatigue, at least one set of braces is formed in an oval, racetrack, obround, or stadium configuration, and one or more horizontal stiffeners are positioned in the transition joint to maximize the strength of the support structure. |
| US09725867B2 |
Modular concrete reinforcement
A reinforcement module can include a first endplate having notches, a second endplate having notches, a spacing member in contact with the first endplate and the second endplate, and wires looped around at least one of the notches of the first endplate and around at least one of the notches of the second endplate. |
| US09725864B2 |
Variable-draft barge, and system and method of transferring loads from the barge to a supporting structure in a body of water
A variable-draft barge configured to transfer loads in a body of water, and having a water line which is a function of the draft; the barge having: a hull; an underbody; at least one first chamber located in the hull and floodable selectively to alter the draft of the barge; at least one flood valve located below the water line to flood the first chamber; and a control device configured to selectively open the flood valve to flood the first chamber. |
| US09725863B2 |
Vertical pneumatic fender and monitoring method for same
A vertical pneumatic fender comprises a fender body having bowl-shaped hemispherical portions joined to both ends in the axial direction of a cylindrical body portion, and a weight that is connected to the bottom of the fender body. The vertical pneumatic fender accommodates ballast water in an interior space of the fender body, and is provided with a backup chain. One end of the backup chain is connected to the fender body in a position that is offset with respect to the axial line of the fender body, and the other end is connected to the weight. The fender body and the weight are connected with the backup chain in a sack state. The slope of an axial orthogonal reference line and an axial parallel reference line are detected by way of a reference line detector. |
| US09725862B2 |
Submersible isolation enclosure apparatus
Submersible isolation enclosure apparatus constructed of flexible, water resistant to water proof fabric or sheeting for enclosing and isolating selected areas of water bottom and water volume from surrounding water with access to the isolated bottom area exposed within a Base Member through one or more closed wall, tubular Access Member(s) connected to the Base Member and accessible from the water surface. Center-radial and perimeter portions of the Base Member fitted with attachment points and one or more tubular, closed wall Sleeve Members to allow for use of floatation, internal supporting rods or piping, and weights, to assist in the movement, positioning, shaping and securing of the apparatus to the selected water bottom area. Flexible fabric and weighting system allows the lower perimeter of the Base Member to conform to bottom structure. |
| US09725859B1 |
Pick-up head for street sweeping and cleaning vehicles
A pick-up head for a street sweeper having easy-to-change curtains. The pick-up head having a body; an air pressure chamber defined by the body, the air pressure chamber including an air blower chamber and air suction chamber, and corresponding air blower orifice and air suction orifice in the body; an elongated opening in the body for receipt of at least one curtain, the at least one curtain made of a durable material, the at least one curtain having an upper spine configured to reside in the elongated opening; and a pair of guide rails extending above and along opposite edges of the elongated opening, the guide rails configured to slidably receive a retention member positioned to retain the at least one curtain within the elongated opening. An expansion chamber and slotted shoe plate further enhances the operation of the pick-up head. |
| US09725857B2 |
Crash cushion
The crash cushion includes: a rail installed on the ground surface; a front support that is installed on a front end of the rail and is pushed backward along the rail when a shock is applied to the front support; a rear support installed on a rear end of the rail; and a shock absorber that is installed extending from the front support to the rear support and disposed at a predetermined height from the ground surface. The shock absorber includes a punch and a pipe, and it absorbs shock in such a way that the pipe is expanded in diameter by the punch. The crash cushion is installed on a road and can effectively absorb shock caused by a vehicle collision. |
| US09725856B2 |
Cover for a concrete parking block
A cover for a concrete parking block has a first lateral end, second lateral end and a longitudinal enclosure. The first lateral end and the second lateral end can be either open or closed. The longitudinal enclosure is the same length as the concrete parking block. The protective cover can be made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), Acrylonitrile Butadiene styrene (ABS) or foam and resin. The protective cover can also be used to as a bicycle stand. In doing so, the bicycle wheels are inserted into V-shaped slots of the longitudinal enclosure. A water bladder is attached to the protective cover when used as a bicycle stand. A reflective coating is applied on the exterior of the protective cover in order to provide more visibility during low light conditions. |
| US09725853B2 |
Soft through air dried tissue
A multi-layer through air dried tissue including a first exterior layer comprised substantially of hardwood fibers, an interior layer comprised substantially of softwood fibers, and a second exterior layer comprised substantially of hardwood fibers. The interior layer includes a first wet end additive comprising an ionic surfactant and a second wet end additive comprising a non-ionic surfactant. |
| US09725851B2 |
Transport device for paper, and paper processing device
Described is a transport device for paper which includes a metal conveyor belt through which air can flow and which is guided over at least two rollers, with the upper section of the belt forming the transport section and its lower section forming the returning section. A vacuum generator is arranged below the upper section. The conveyor belt is a metal mesh so as to be easy to produce and install. |
| US09725849B2 |
Method for pretreating cellulose pulp
The invention relates to pretreating of native cellulose pulp in the manufacture of nanofibrillated cellulose, and to a nanofibrillated cellulose product obtainable by the method. |
| US09725847B2 |
Cloth containing an organic fiber and having a fluorine compound attached to the cloth, and textile product comprising the cloth
An object is to provide a cloth containing an organic fiber, which is excellent in the oil repellency, dirt-removal property by washing and water-absorbing property, and a textile product produced using the cloth. A means for solution is attaching a specific fluorine-containing polymer to a cloth containing an organic fiber, with a quaternary ammonium salt if desired, and thus making the water-absorbing property in accordance with JIS L1018A method (the instillation method) 60 seconds or less and the oil repellency in accordance with AATCC118-1992 grade 4 or higher. |
| US09725846B2 |
Accessory for the matching of garments
An accessory for the matching of garments is provided that includes a strip of a flexible material having first and second ends with a fastening element at each end. The fastening elements are preferably in the form of clamps. The fastening elements and the strip may be colored and made of a material that does not damage the garments. The strip may also include cooperating elements intermediate its ends for securing the strip in a folded condition. |
| US09725844B2 |
Powdered and liquid chemical dispensing and distribution system
A powdered and liquid chemical distribution system for distributing powdered and liquid chemicals. The system includes a transport module having a plurality of chambers arranged in series to automatically distribute both a powdered chemical and a liquid chemical to a point of use along a single line, wherein the plurality of chambers share a chamber wall. |
| US09725843B2 |
Laundry treating apparatus
A laundry treating apparatus is disclosed. The laundry treating apparatus includes control panel body that defines an opening with a circular perimeter and a diameter. The laundry treating apparatus further includes at least one light source. The laundry treating apparatus further includes a rotary knob that is configured to manipulate a rotary switch and that has an outer circumferential surface that is spaced apart from the circular perimeter of the opening to define a clearance between the rotary knob and the control panel body. The laundry treating apparatus includes further a knob decorative member that is located between the rotary knob and the circular perimeter of the opening. The laundry treating apparatus further includes a window that includes a light transmission portion through which light emitted from the at least one light source passes. |
| US09725841B2 |
Washing machine
A washing machine including a cabinet with an opening, a door that opens and closes to uncover and cover the opening, respectively, and a door locking device that selectively restrains a motion of the door when the door is closed. This configuration may be used to prevent the door from opening when, for example, the washing machine is in operation. In addition, a structure of a front portion of the opening may facilitate loading and unloading of laundry. |
| US09725836B2 |
Cutting eye needle
Cutting eye needle comprising an elongated portion, a tip portion, and an eye portion comprising a frictionally engaged cutting edge, with adjacent surfaces (14) and (15) intersecting at edge (17) at an angle that creates a frictionally engaged cutting edge, which threads and sews like a conventional hand sewing needle, which is suitable for cutting one or more threads, in professions including the medical field and surgery, and in needlecraft operations particularly suited to quilting, where ends of thread are cut while located inside the cavities of a quilting project, while simultaneously reducing the probability of skin contact of an operator are disclosed. |
| US09725835B2 |
Dual-layer fabric, in particular for sports and underwear, with improved breathable and insulating properties
A knitted dual-layer fabric for manufacturing garments such as underwear and sportswear for wearing in the outdoors is described. The dual-layer fabric comprises a first layer, the first layer being an inner layer adapted to be in contact with the skin and having water repellent or hydrophobic properties, and a second layer, the second layer being an outer layer having hydrophilic or water absorbent properties, and a binding interposed between the inner layer and the outer layer to bind and tie the layers. |
| US09725834B2 |
Method and device for measuring the fabric tension in a weaving machine
Method for measuring the fabric tension in a weaving machine, in which the fabric (1) is deflected by a deflecting shaft (2), wherein a bending force is applied onto the deflecting shaft (2) by the fabric (1). The flexure or bending displacement of the deflecting shaft (2) is measured by a sensor (3), which is arranged in an area between two supports (4.1, 4.2) of the deflecting shaft (2) on the weaving machine. The deflecting shaft (2) is connected with a machine frame (9) of the weaving machine via the two supports (4.1, 4.2). The spacing distance (A) between the two supports (4.1, 4.2) of the deflecting shaft (2) is reduced for larger fabric tensions to be measured and is increased for smaller fabric tensions to be measured. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding weaving machine. |
| US09725833B2 |
Woven structure and method for weaving same
An exemplary weaving method includes placing a first section of a fill fiber between warp fibers, forming a pick, moving a base to reposition the warp fibers, and placing a second section of the fill fiber between the warp fibers. |
| US09725830B2 |
Device for conveying a fiber web or a web of nonwoven
The device for conveying a fiber web comprises a transport device, which serves as a support for the fiber web, and which is driven by a drive in a transport direction at a speed of at least 50 m/min. The transport device has a rough surface and carries along the fiber web resting on the transport device by force of friction. An array of linear elements arranged above the transport device serves to cover the fiber web resting on the transport device. The linear elements have a smooth surface, and the fiber web is carried along the bottom surface of the linear elements. The linear elements are arranged next to each other but spaced apart in a direction transverse to the transport direction. |
| US09725826B2 |
Single-crystal diamond and manufacturing method thereof
Single-crystal diamond is composed of carbon in which a concentration of a carbon isotope 12C is not lower than 99.9 mass % and a plurality of inevitable impurities other than carbon. The inevitable impurities include nitrogen, boron, hydrogen, and nickel, and a total content of nitrogen, boron, and hydrogen of the plurality of inevitable impurities is not higher than 0.01 mass %. In order to manufacture single-crystal diamond, initially, a hydrocarbon gas in which a concentration of the carbon isotope 12C is not lower than 99.9 mass % is subjected to denitrification. |
| US09725823B2 |
Silicon carbide crystal and method of manufacturing silicon carbide crystal
An SiC crystal (10) has Fe concentration not higher than 0.1 ppm and Al concentration not higher than 100 ppm. A method of manufacturing an SiC crystal includes the following steps. SiC powders for polishing are prepared as a first source material (17). A first SiC crystal (11) is grown by sublimating the first source material (17) through heating and precipitating an SiC crystal. A second source material (12) is formed by crushing the first SiC crystal (11). A second SiC crystal (14) is grown by sublimating the second source material (12) through heating and precipitating an SiC crystal. Thus, an SiC crystal and a method of manufacturing an SiC crystal capable of achieving suppressed lowering in quality can be obtained. |
| US09725822B2 |
Method for epitaxial growth of monocrystalline silicon carbide using a feed material including a surface layer containing a polycrystalline silicon carbide with a 3C crystal polymorph
Provided is a feed material for epitaxial growth of a monocrystalline silicon carbide capable of increasing the rate of epitaxial growth of silicon carbide. A feed material 11 for epitaxial growth of a monocrystalline silicon carbide includes a surface layer containing a polycrystalline silicon carbide with a 3C crystal polymorph. Upon X-ray diffraction of the surface layer, a diffraction peak corresponding to a (111) crystal plane and a diffraction peak other than the diffraction peak corresponding to the (111) crystal plane are observed as diffraction peaks corresponding to the polycrystalline silicon carbide with a 3C crystal polymorph. |
| US09725821B1 |
Cavity pull rod: device to promote single crystal growth from the melt
A pull rod for use in producing a single crystal from a molten alloy is provided that includes an elongated rod having a first end and a second end, a first cavity defined at the first end and a second cavity defined at the first end and in communication with the first cavity. The first cavity receives the molten alloy and the second cavity vents a gas from the molten alloy to thereby template a single crystal when the pull rod is dipped into and extracted from the molten alloy. |
| US09725811B2 |
Coated cutting tool
A coated cutting tool has a substrate and a coating layer. At least one layer of the coating layer is a coarse grain layer with an average layer thickness of 0.2 to 10 μm and an average grain diameter in excess of 200 nm measured at the direction parallel to the interface of the coating layer. A composition of the layer is represented by (AlaTibMc)X, wherein M represents at least one of Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W, Y, B and Si, X represents at least one of C, N and O, and a, b and c represents atomic ratios of Al, Ti and M relative to one another such that 0.30≦a≦0.65, 0.35≦0.70, 0≦c≦0.20 and a+b+c=1. |
| US09725810B2 |
Plating method, plating apparatus and storage medium
A liquid displacement is performed by supplying a plating liquid onto a substrate 2 while rotating the substrate 2 at a first rotational speed in a state that a pre-treatment liquid remains on a surface of the substrate 2 (liquid displacement process (block S305)). Then, an initial film is formed on the substrate 2 by stopping the rotation of the substrate 2 or by rotating the substrate 2 at a second rotational speed while continuously supplying the plating liquid onto the substrate 2 (incubation process (block S306)). Thereafter, a plating film is grown by rotating the substrate 2 at a third rotational speed while continuously supplying the plating liquid onto the substrate 2 (plating film growing process (block S307)). Here, the first rotational speed is higher than the third rotational speed, and the third rotational speed is higher than the second rotational speed. |
| US09725806B2 |
Multi-zone pedestal for plasma processing
A method and apparatus for a heated pedestal is provided. In one embodiment, the heated pedestal includes a body comprising a ceramic material, a plurality of heating elements encapsulated within the body, and one or more grooves formed in a surface of the body adjacent each of the plurality of heating elements, at least one side of the grooves being bounded by a ceramic plate. |
| US09725802B2 |
Method for making pet containers with enhanced silicon dioxide barrier coating
A process for applying a silicon oxide barrier coating to a PET container, wherein the PET container comprises a wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, the process comprising the steps of: (a) heating a PET container such that at least the outer surface is at a temperature of from about 200° F. to about 383° F.; (b) forming a coated PET container by applying at least one silicon oxide barrier layer on at least the inner surface of the PET container while the temperature of at least the outer surface of the PET container is at a temperature of from about 200° F. to about 383° F.; and (c) cooling the coated PET container after step b. |
| US09725798B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing display device and method of manufacturing display device
An apparatus for manufacturing a display device and a method of manufacturing a display device is disclosed. In one aspect, the apparatus includes a guider configured to guide a substrate on which a display portion is formed, a plasma sprayer configured to be spaced apart from the display portion and configured to spray plasma onto the substrate and a mask configured to be arranged over the substrate and cover the display portion. The mask includes a body portion configured to face the display portion and a protrusion portion formed at an end of the body portion and configured to extend towards the substrate. |
| US09725796B2 |
Coating of bulk metallic glass (BMG) articles
Exemplary embodiments described herein relate to methods and apparatus for forming a coating layer at least partially on surface of a BMG article formed of bulk solidifying amorphous alloys. In embodiments, the coating layer may be formed in situ during formation of a BMG article and/or post formation of a BMG article. The coating layer may provide the BMG article with surface hardness, wear resistance, surface activity, corrosion resistance, etc. |
| US09725792B2 |
High elasticity hyper eutectic aluminum alloy and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed herein is a high-elasticity hypereutectic aluminum alloy, including: titanium (Ti) and boron (B), wherein a composition ratio of Ti: B is 3.5 to 5:1, boron (B) is included in an amount of 0.5 to 2 wt %, and both Al3Ti and TiB2 are included as reinforcing agents. |
| US09725790B2 |
Process for producing an aluminum-scandium-calcium alloy
Calcium is added to an aluminum-scandium alloy to produce an aluminum-scandium-calcium alloy by combining aluminum, scandium, and the calcium in a melt, where the common melt is then quenched at a high velocity. |
| US09725789B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing compound powder, method of manufacturing iron-boron compound powder by using the apparatus, boron alloy powder mixture, method of manufacturing the boron alloy powder mixture, combined powder structure, method of manufacturing the combined powder structure, steel pipe, and method of manufacturing the steel pipe
Provided are an apparatus for manufacturing a compound powder, a method of manufacturing an iron-boron compound powder by using the apparatus, a boron alloy powder mixture, a method of manufacturing the boron alloy powder mixture, a combined powder structure, a method of manufacturing the combined powder structure, a steel pipe, and a method of manufacturing the steel pipe The method of manufacturing the boron alloy powder mixture includes: preparing a mixed powder including a boron iron alloy powder and a target powder; heat-treating the mixed powder to boronize at least a portion of the target powder and de-boronize at least a portion of the boron iron alloy powder, thereby de-boronizing the boron iron alloy powder to reduce the melting point of the boron iron alloy powder. |
| US09725786B2 |
Nickel extraction method
In the present invention, nickel is selectively extracted from an acidic solution that contains a high concentration of manganese. This valuable metal extraction agent is represented by the general formula. In the formula, R1 and R2 are alkyl groups that may be the same or different, R3 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group, and R4 is a hydrogen atom or any group, other than an amino group, bonded to an α carbon atom of an amino acid. The general formula preferably has a glycine unit, a histidine unit, a lysine unit, an aspartic acid unit or a n-methylglycine unit. When extracting nickel by using this extraction agent, it is preferable to adjust the pH of the acidic solution to 2.3 to 5.5 inclusive. |
| US09725782B2 |
Hot stamped steel and method for producing the same
In a hot stamped steel, when [C] represents an amount of C (mass %), [Si] represents an amount of Si (mass %), and [Mn] represents an amount of Mn (mass %), an expression of 5×[Si]+[Mn])/[C]>10 is satisfied, a metallographic structure includes 80% or more of a martensite in an area fraction, and optionally, further includes one or more of 10% or less of a pearlite in an area fraction, 5% or less of a retained austenite in a volume ratio, 20% or less of a ferrite in an area fraction, and less than 20% of a bainite in an area fraction, TS×λ, which is a product of TS that is a tensile strength and λ that is a hole expansion ratio is 50000 MPa·% or more, and a hardness of the martensite measured with a nanoindenter satisfies H2/H1<1.10 and σHM<20. |
| US09725778B2 |
Method and apparatus for production of direct reduced iron (DRI) utilizing coke oven gas
Direct reduction process and plant for producing DRI comprising a reduction reactor and at least one reducing gas heater typically comprising a convective heating section and a radiant heating section for raising the reducing gas temperature to a level adequate for iron oxides reduction to metallic iron, typically above 850° C., wherein the reducing gas fed to the reduction reactor comprises a stream of reducing gas recycled from the reduction reactor and a make-up stream of coke oven gas containing carbon compounds which may form carbon deposits in the heating path of said heater, namely BTX and other complex carbon compounds. The heater is provided with means for feeding oxidizing agents, for example steam, steam and air and/or oxygen at predetermined heating tubes successively for eliminating the carbon deposits which may form inside the heating tubes of said heater without interrupting the operation of the plant. The make-up stream of cold COG can be combined with the recycled gas at a point in the gas heating path of the heater where the tubes have a skin wall temperature of at least 700° C., or when the mixture of recycled gas and COG is at a temperature above 700° C. for minimizing clogging or fouling of heating equipment. |
| US09725776B2 |
Method to produce water-soluble sugars from biomass using solvents containing lactones
A process to produce an aqueous solution of carbohydrates that contains C6-sugar-containing oligomers, C6 sugar monomers, C5-sugar-containing oligomers, C5 sugar monomers, or any combination thereof is presented. The process includes the steps of reacting biomass or a biomass-derived reactant with a solvent system including a lactone and water, and an acid catalyst. The reaction yields a product mixture containing water-soluble C6-sugar-containing oligomers, C6-sugar monomers, C5-sugar-containing oligomers, C5-sugar monomers, or any combination thereof. A solute is added to the product mixture to cause partitioning of the product mixture into an aqueous layer containing the carbohydrates and a substantially immiscible organic layer containing the lactone. |