| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09809525B2 |
Production of terephthalic acid via reductive coupling of propiolic acid or propiolic acid derivatives
A method of making terephthalic acid via reductive coupling of two molecules of propiolic acid or propiolic acid derivatives is presented. The reductive coupling can be catalyzed by compounds comprising metals, and propiolic acid or propiolic acid derivatives can be produced from acetylene and carbon dioxide. At least 4 of the 8 carbons in the terephthalic acid are non-fossil-derived. |
| US09809524B1 |
Process for the preparation of 1-(3,5-dichloro-4-fluoro-phenyl)-2,2,2-trifluoro-ethanone
The invention relates to a process for the preparation of a compound of formula I comprising a) reacting a compound of formula II in the presence of magnesium or an organometallic reagent of formula III R1M2X (III), wherein R1 is CI-C4alkyl; M2 is Li or Mg and X is halogen or absent; with a compound of formula IV CF3—C(O)—R2 (IV), wherein R2 is halogen, hydroxyl, CI-C4alkoxy, (di-CI-C4alkyl)amino, OC(O)CF3, phenoxy or OM1; wherein M1 is Lithium, Magnesium, Sodium or Potassium; to a compound of formula V, and b) reacting the compound of formula V with alkali metal fluoride in the presence of catalytic amounts of a phase transfer catalyst in the presence of a polar solvent to the compound of formula I. |
| US09809518B2 |
Feed sources for butanediol production processes
Butanediol production processes are described herein. In some embodiments, the processes include contacting an allyl alcohol stream with a hydroformylation catalyst in the presence of a gas stream including carbon monoxide and hydrogen under hydroformylation conditions sufficient to form a hydroformylation product stream including a butanediol intermediate, wherein the allyl alcohol stream includes less than 98 wt. % allyl alcohol. |
| US09809513B2 |
Olefin conversion process
Processes for the production of olefins are disclosed, which may include: contacting a hydrocarbon mixture comprising linear butenes with an isomerization catalyst to form an isomerization product comprising 2-butenes and 1-butenes; contacting the isomerization product with a first metathesis catalyst to form a first metathesis product comprising 2-pentene and propylene, as well as any unreacted C4 olefins, and byproducts ethylene and 3-hexene; and fractionating the first metathesis product to form a C3− fraction and a C5 fraction comprising 2-pentene. The 2-pentene may then be advantageously used to produce high purity 1-butene, 3-hexene, 1-hexene, propylene, or other desired products. |
| US09809509B2 |
Process for xylenes isomerization
A process for the isomerization of a para-xylene depleted, meta-xylene rich stream under at least partially liquid phase conditions using ZSM-23 with an external surface area of at least 75 m2/g (indicating a small crystallite size), and a SiO2/Al2O3 ratio between 15 and 75 that produces a higher than equilibrium amount of para-xylene, i.e., more than about 24 wt % of para-xylene, based on the total amount of xylenes. |
| US09809507B2 |
Catalyst for producing monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and method for producing monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
A catalyst for producing monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons of 6 to 8 carbon number from a feedstock oil having a 10 volume % distillation temperature of at least 140° C. and an end point temperature of not more than 400° C., or a feedstock oil having a 10 volume % distillation temperature of at least 140° C. and a 90 volume % distillation temperature of not more than 360° C., wherein the catalyst contains a crystalline aluminosilicate, gallium and/or zinc, and phosphorus, and the amount of phosphorus supported on the crystalline aluminosilicate is within a range from 0.1 to 1.9% by mass based on the mass of the crystalline aluminosilicate; and a method for producing monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, the method involving bringing a feedstock oil having a 10 volume % distillation temperature of at least 140° C. and an end point temperature of not more than 400° C., or a feedstock oil having a 10 volume % distillation temperature of at least 140° C. and a 90 volume % distillation temperature of not more than 360° C., into contact with the above-mentioned catalyst for producing monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. |
| US09809505B1 |
Production of aromatics from methanol and co-feeds
Methods are provided for improving the yield of aromatics during conversion of oxygenate feeds. An oxygenate feed can contain a mixture of oxygenate compounds, including one or more compounds with a hydrogen index of less than 2, so that an effective hydrogen index of the mixture of oxygenates is between about 1.4 and 1.9. Methods are also provided for converting a mixture of oxygenates with an effective hydrogen index greater than about 1 with a pyrolysis oil co-feed. The difficulties in co-processing a pyrolysis oil can be reduced or minimized by staging the introduction of pyrolysis oil into a reaction system. This can allow varying mixtures of pyrolysis oil and methanol, or another oxygenate feed, to be introduced into a reaction system at various feed entry points. |
| US09809499B2 |
Dielectric material and electronic component
A dielectric material having a rutile crystalline structure includes Ti as a major constituent metal element, and, as metal elements other than Ti, a metal element M1 which includes at least one selected from among Ni, Co, and elements belonging to Group 2 according to a periodic table, and a metal element M2 which includes at least one selected from among elements belonging to Group 5 and Group 6 in the periodic table, and, on a basis of a total amount of Ti, the metal element M1, and the metal element M2, a molar ratio x of the metal element M1 is in a range of 0.005 to 0.025 and a molar ratio y of the metal element M2 is in a range of 0.010 to 0.050. |
| US09809497B2 |
Omniphobic grout additive
An omniphobic aqueous stain repellant integral grout additive contains an aminoalkyl-substituted polyorganosiloxane, preferably, a higher alkyl alkoxysilane, an organopolysiloxane T resin bearing silicon-bonded alkoxy groups, a fluoro(meth)acrylate polymer or copolymer, and preferably, a film forming (meth)acrylate polymer or copolymer latex. The omniphobic grout additive provides high stain repellancy to grout in an economic manner. |
| US09809496B2 |
Additive for cementitious materials
The invention relates to use of nano-fibrillar cellulose as an gas-entrainment stabilizer, which when used in cementitious materials, provides improved gas pore structure quality and/or stability and/or robustness with regard to water content variation. The invention further relates to a method for stabilizing gasentrainment of cementitious materials and to a method for providing cementitious material with improved air pore structure quality and/or stability and/or robustness with regard to water content variation. |
| US09809495B2 |
Method for the closed-cell expansion of mineral material
The invention relates to a method for producing an expanded granulate from sand grain-shaped mineral material (1) with a propellant, wherein the material (1) is fed into a vertically upright furnace (2) from above and said material (1) falls along a drop section (4) through multiple heating zones (5) in a furnace shaft (3) of the furnace (2), wherein each heating zone (5) is heatable using at least one independently controllable heating element (6), and the material (1) is heated to a critical temperature at which the surfaces (7) of the sand grains (15) plasticize and the sand grains (15) are expanded by the propellant. In order to enable setting a closed surface of the expanded granulate in a purposeful fashion, it is provided in accordance with the invention that upon detection of a first reduction in the temperature of the material (1) between two successive positions (9) along the drop section (4) the heating elements (6) are controlled along the remaining drop section (4) depending on the critical temperature. |
| US09809492B2 |
Substrate with a partial metal multilayer, glazing unit and process
The invention relates to a substrate (30) coated on one face (31) with a multilayer of thin films (34) comprising at least one metal functional layer (140) based on silver or made of silver and two antireflective coatings (120, 160), the said antireflective coatings each comprising at least one antireflective layer (124, 164), the said functional layer (140) being disposed between the two antireflective coatings (120, 160), characterized in that the said metal functional layer (140) is a discontinuous layer having a surface area occupation factor in the range between 50% and 98%, or even between 53% and 83%. |
| US09809491B2 |
Device and method for baking substrate
The present disclosure relates to a device and a method for baking a substrate. The device includes a hot plate, and a supporting member for supporting a substrate to be processed, wherein the supporting member is located between the hot plate and the substrate to be processed, and can move relative to the hot plate so as to adjust the contacting position of the supporting member with the substrate to be processed. With the device, the yield of the substrate can be increased. |
| US09809483B2 |
Apparatus and method for making and separating a flexible ribbon configuration
A flexible ribbon configuration includes a flexible glass ribbon including a leading end and a trailing end. In one example, the flexible ribbon configuration includes at least one ribbon extension extending between a first end and an opposing second end. In another example, the first end of the ribbon extension is attached to at least one of the trailing end and the leading end of the flexible glass ribbon. In yet another example, the at least one ribbon extension defines an elongated opening between the first end of the ribbon extension and the second end of the ribbon extension. Further examples include a method of making a flexible ribbon configuration. Still further examples include a method of separating a flexible ribbon configuration. |
| US09809482B2 |
Method for treating mineral sludge by flocculation in-line then above ground
The improved process for conditioning sludges by flocculation, according to which: the sludge to be treated is transported in a pipeline, at least one flocculating agent is inserted in the pipeline that transports the sludge to be treated, the sludge is then mixed with the said flocculating agent. finally, the mixture is transported and then discharged in a natural or an artificial excavation at a distance from the bottom of the said excavation that is less than its depth. |
| US09809480B2 |
Wastewater treatment process and system
A process and system for treating wastewater is described. The invention degrades sludge produced by treatment of the wastewater to reduce or eliminate the need for sludge dewatering and disposal. The invention also reduces the amount of nutrient additives required to sustain the aerobic wastewater treatment process. In one embodiment the invention includes the steps of (a) providing an aerobic treatment system receiving a supply of the wastewater; (b) treating a supply of the sludge to rupture microbial cells present therein to produce treated sludge having an increased liquid:solid ratio and an increased degradation potential in comparison to untreated sludge; (c) conveying a supply of the treated sludge to the aerobic treatment system; and (d) substantially degrading the supply of treated sludge in the aerobic treatment system. The treated sludge may optionally be subjected to anaerobic digestion prior to delivery to the aerobic treatment system. |
| US09809479B2 |
Method and apparatus for residential water recycling
A wastewater recycling system includes a biological reactor having anaerobic, anoxic, and aerobic chambers. A lift station including a pump is operatively connected to the biological reactor. The lift station receives biologically treated liquid from the biological reactor and pumps the liquid from the lift station. A filtration subsystem is operatively connected to the lift station. The filtration subsystem receives and filters the liquid pumped by the lift station. The filtration subsystem includes a salt-rejecting membrane filter comprising a concentrate recirculation conduit operatively connected to recirculate salt-rejecting membrane filter concentrate to a point along the wastewater recycling system upstream of the salt-rejecting membrane filter, thereby forming a salt concentration loop between said point along the wastewater recycling system and the salt-rejecting membrane filter. A post-filtration subsystem is operatively connected to receive salt-rejecting membrane filter permeate, and comprises a water disinfection system that disinfects the permeate thereby generating potable water. |
| US09809473B2 |
Water treatment system
A water treatment system includes a water mixing unit adapted to promote water turbulence, an input line having an upstream end adapted to be in fluid communication with a body of water to be treated, and a downstream end in fluid communication with the water mixing unit. The system includes an ozone injector adapted to be connected in fluid communication with an ozone gas generation system. A branching line is in fluid communication with the input line and the ozone injector and an ozone supply line is in fluid communication with the ozone injector and the input line. A bypass control valve is in fluid communication with the ozone supply line and the water input line and is adapted to be selectively switched between an open position and a closed position, wherein water is prevented from flowing through the branching line and the ozone supply line when the bypass control valve is in the closed position. |
| US09809472B2 |
Stacked hydromagnetic desalination cell
A hydromagnetic desalination cell including at least one hollow rectangular flow conduit, a first rectangular magnet and a second rectangular magnet each having a north pole face and a south pole face opposite of each other, wherein the first and second rectangular magnets are disposed along a longitudinal axis and on opposite sides of the rectangular flow conduit, a first opening and a second opening on opposite walls of the rectangular flow conduit extending between the first and second rectangular magnets, and a first and second chamber fluidly connected to the first and second openings. A hydromagnetic desalination system and methods of desalinating brine water with the hydromagnetic desalination system are also disclosed. |
| US09809471B2 |
Method of disposal of cyanobacteria in stagnant waters and equipment for its implementation
An equipment for disposal of cyanobacteria in stagnant waters has a float structure, to which two types of bipolar electrodes (1 and 6) are mounted under the surface of water, interconnected and supplied with electric direct current via an alternator (10). The equipment comprises a supporting float (5) having the shape of a hollow body, in which there is a transversely positioned rib (4) with an attached suspended electrode (1), interconnected to supplies of photovoltaic cells (8) and alternator (10), fixed on the rib (4) there is the device (9) for utilizing wind power, connected to an alternator (10), driving the water pump (2), which is placed in the delivery pipe (3) and is connected directly to the axis of the device (9), for utilization of wind power. Fixed on the supporting float (5) there is the upper float (7) with the anchored grid electrode (6) and with the stored photovoltaic cells (8), interconnected with the electrodes (1) and (6). The delivery pipe (3) is connected to the water pump (2), and the outlet of the delivery pipe (3) is positioned directly above the suspended electrode (1). The upper float (7) copies the shape of the supporting float (5) and is made of a dielectric, light, floating material. The method of disposal of cyanobacteria in stagnant waters is based on quatrolytic disposal of cyanobacteria by the electroflotation method, by means of the above-mentioned equipment. |
| US09809464B2 |
Apparatus for harvesting algae from open body of water
An apparatus for harvesting algae from an open body of water includes a boat having a pair of spaced apart parallel flotation members and a deck disposed on and connected to the members. The spaced apart members define an area therebetween forming a process channel. A separating mechanism disposed on the boat separates the process channel into a plurality of process channel sections arranged in series. The process channel sections are disposed intermediate the flotation members. Each of the process channel sections include a deflector plate, a scum beach, a scum trough, and diffused air piping. The diffused air piping is in fluid communication with a dissolved air flotation system. |
| US09809463B2 |
Desalination system and desalination method
A desalination system, etc. of the present disclosure includes: a water tank; a water-repellent particle layer that is located below the water tank and contains a plurality of water-repellent particles; a liquefying layer that is located below the water-repellent particle layer and liquefies water vapor that has passed through the water-repellent particle layer, to obtain fresh water; an introduction channel of a liquid supply channel that supplies a liquid to the water tank; and a liquid speed reduction part that is located on the introduction channel of the supply channel, and includes a wall surface crossing a flow direction of the liquid in the supply channel, for reducing a flow speed of the liquid. |
| US09809461B2 |
Titanium oxide, conductive titanium oxide, and processes for producing these
Titanium dioxide and an electro-conductive titanium oxide which each includes particles having a large major-axis length in a large proportion and comprises columnar particles having a satisfactory particle size distribution. A titanium compound, an alkali metal compound, and an oxyphosphorus compound are heated/fired in the presence of titanium dioxide nucleus crystals having an aspect ratio of 2 or higher to grow the titanium dioxide nucleus crystals. Subsequently, a titanium compound, an alkali metal compound, and an oxyphosphorus compound are further added and heated/fired in the presence of the grown titanium dioxide nucleus crystals. Thus, titanium dioxide is produced which comprises columnar particles having a weight-average major-axis length of 7.0-15.0 μm and in which particles having a major-axis length of 10 μm or longer account for 15 wt. % or more of all the particles. A solution of a tin compound and a solution of compounds of antimony, phosphorus, etc. are added to a suspension obtained by suspending the titanium dioxide. The particles are sedimented. Subsequently, the product obtained is heated/fired to produce an electro-conductive titanium oxide which comprises the titanium dioxide and an electro-conductive coating formed on the surface thereof. |
| US09809460B2 |
Electrically conductive thin films containing Re2C
An electrically conductive thin film including a compound represented by Chemical Formula 1 and having a layered crystal structure Re2C Chemical Formula 1 wherein Re is a lanthanide. Also an electronic device including the electrically conductive thin film. |
| US09809458B2 |
Method for controlling bulk density of carbon nanotube agglomerate
The present invention relates to a method for producing a carbon nanotube aggregate whose bulk density is easily controllable. Therefore, the present invention provides a carbon nanotube aggregate suitable for use in various fields. |
| US09809452B2 |
Making nanochannels and nanotunnels
A process for making a nanoduct includes: disposing an etchant catalyst on a semiconductor substrate including a single crystal structure; heating the semiconductor substrate to an etching temperature; introducing an oxidant; contacting the semiconductor substrate with the oxidant in a presence of the etchant catalyst; anisotropically etching the semiconductor substrate by the etchant catalyst in a presence of the oxidant in an etch direction that is coincident along a crystallographic axis of the semiconductor substrate; and forming the nanoduct as the etchant catalyst propagates along a surface of the semiconductor substrate during anisotropically etching the semiconductor substrate, the nanoduct being crystallographically aligned with the crystallographic axis of the semiconductor substrate. |
| US09809451B2 |
Capacitive sensing structure with embedded acoustic channels
A MEMS device includes a dual membrane, an electrode, and an interconnecting structure. The dual membrane has a top membrane and a bottom membrane. The bottom membrane is positioned between the top membrane and the electrode and the interconnecting structure defines a spacing between the top membrane and the bottom membrane. |
| US09809448B2 |
Systems and apparatus having MEMS acoustic sensors and other MEMS sensors and methods of fabrication of the same
A micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) device is provided. The MEMS device includes: a substrate having a first surface and a second surface and wherein the first surface is exposed to an environment outside the MEMS device; and a MEMS microphone disposed at a first location on the second surface of the substrate and having a diaphragm positioned such that acoustic waves received at the MEMS microphone are incident on the diaphragm. The MEMS device also includes: a first integrated circuit disposed at a second location of the substrate, wherein the first integrated circuit is electrically coupled to the MEMS microphone; and a MEMS measurement device at a third location, wherein the MEMS measurement device comprises a motion sensor and a pressure sensor. |
| US09809444B2 |
System and method for a differential comb drive MEMS
According to an embodiment, a MEMS device includes a deflectable membrane including a first plurality of electrostatic comb fingers, a first anchor structure including a second plurality of electrostatic comb fingers interdigitated with a first subset of the first plurality of electrostatic comb fingers, and a second anchor structure including a third plurality of electrostatic comb fingers interdigitated with a second subset of the first plurality of electrostatic comb fingers. The second plurality of electrostatic comb fingers are offset from the first plurality of electrostatic comb fingers in a first direction and the third plurality of electrostatic comb fingers are offset from the first plurality of electrostatic comb fingers in a second direction, where the first direction is different from the second direction. |
| US09809443B2 |
Multi-station liquid dispensing apparatus with automatic selection of proper flow rate
A multi-station liquid mixing and dispensing apparatus. The apparatus includes a housing that defines a first pocket for supporting a first container, a second pocket for supporting a second container, and a third pocket disposed vertically above at least one of the first pocket and the second pocket. The apparatus also includes a first door pivotably coupled to the housing and enclosing the first pocket, and a second door pivotably coupled to the housing and enclosing the second pocket. The apparatus also includes a valve coupled to the housing to control flow of chemical concentrate to at least one of the first container and the second container. |
| US09809439B2 |
Sanitary touch-free automatic condiment dispensing apparatus and method of use
A sanitary touch-free automatic condiment dispensing apparatus and method of use. The automatic sanitary touch-free condiment dispensing apparatus includes a two-stage detection process for detecting and automatically dispensing a pre-determined amount of a condiment/sauce (e.g., ketchup, mustard, mayo, food sauces, desert sauces, syrups, salad dressing, etc.) or another fluid (e.g., soap, shampoo, etc.). without accidental or wasteful dispensing. |
| US09809438B2 |
Fluid dispensing apparatus and system
A fluid dispensing apparatus includes: a cap, a container, a cover on the cap for regulating flow of fluid from the container on which the cap is secured through the cap; a seat for receiving the cap or the container to which the cap is secured therein; second securing means for securing either the cap or the container to which the cap is secured to the seat; a probe located within the seat for protruding through the cover when the cap or a container to which the cap is secured is received in the seat, and thereby permitting access to the interior of the container; a gas conduit for charging a container associated with the cap with gas; a gas valve for regulating flow of gas through the gas conduit; and a sensor for sensing whether a container or cap is secured to the seat which sensor causes the gas valve to open when the container or cap is secured to the seat; and close when the container or cap is not secured to the seat. |
| US09809437B2 |
Internet-enabled beverage maker
A home beverage dispensing device for dispensing servings of a beverage, having a vessel for holding a volume of liquid. This vessel may be equipped with a refrigeration unit, or may be comprised of a removable pitcher that may be put in an external refrigerator. This invention is equipped with a radio communications controller to provide for the ability to communicate over radio frequencies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. A special disposable beverage cartridge or beverage pouch fits into the holder. This cartridge or pouch may have pressure rupturable seals or diaphragms and contain beverage concentrate. The mixing structure also receives the optionally chilled liquid from vessel for holding a volume of liquid, and ensures that the concentrate mixes with the liquid without contacting the walls of the mixing structure. |
| US09809431B2 |
Oil return mechanism
An oil return mechanism includes a base, a control switch, a first blocking ball mounted in the base, an elastic member mounted between the first blocking ball and the base. The base has a liquid storing cavity, a liquid returning cavity, a communicating cavity, a first communicating opening communicating between the liquid returning cavity and the communicating cavity, and a second communicating opening communicating between the communicating cavity and the liquid storing cavity. The present invention can regulate a speed of a fluid flowing from the liquid returning cavity to the communicating cavity, and has the advantages of simple structure and great reduction of cost. |
| US09809428B1 |
Fifth wheel hitch hoist
Mounted support arms affixed to a fifth wheel pinbox and formed to receive booms provide a sturdy framework for a winch mounting plate. The winch actuates a hitch-hoisting cable which may be attached to a truck hitch to lift it from the bed of a truck and then lower it to a storage location. The hitch hoist may have two mounting arms, two booms, and a winch on a plate with width variability built into the bolting slot patterns. The booms extend from the mounting arms near the winch plate to form an obtuse angle between the booms and the arms. From the horizon, the angle may be viewed to be that of approximately forty-five degrees (45°). An axle is affixed near the end of the booms and holds a cable wheel which guides a cable and hook to raise and lower the hitch with the winch. |
| US09809427B2 |
Wire rope protection sleeve
A protection sleeve is provided for a wire rope to prevent the wire rope from contacting other components in an oil and gas operation. The protection sleeve, in some embodiments, has a body that substantially corresponds to the wire portion of the wire rope, and the protection sleeve has specialized flaps at the ends of the body that correspond to thimble eyes of the wire rope. The protection sleeve may have a variety of configurations to accommodate different aspects of a wire rope or any other device that necessitates protection. |
| US09809422B2 |
Crane
A tower crane, and in particular a hammerhead crane, having at least one crane operator elevator, wherein the at least one crane operator elevator is arranged inside the rectangular cross section of the crane tower. |
| US09809421B2 |
Elevator cord health monitoring
A method of fault detection of a belt or rope includes interconnecting a plurality of cords of the belt or rope, the cords including a plurality of wires, to form a bridge circuit. A fault detection bridge circuit is subjected to a voltage excitation and outputs a voltage which is indicative of the belt or rope damage but remaining insensitive to other environmental noises. |
| US09809413B2 |
Winding device for strand shaped winding material
A winding device for winding a strand like winding material is disclosed. The winding device includes a winding disk onto which the strand like winding material is wound, and a housing being arranged adjacently to the winding disk. The winding disk is prevented from moving, for example, from twisting, by at least one magnetic holding device. The magnetic holding device has a first magnetic arrangement, which is connected torque proof to the housing, and a second magnetic arrangement, which is connected torque proof to the winding disk, each magnetic arrangement having a north pole N and a south pole S. Between the first and second magnetic arrangements there is a gap. The first and second magnetic arrangements are magnetically coupled across the gap, wherein the strand shaped winding material is guided through the gap. |
| US09809411B2 |
Integral anti-rollback for injection molded tape dispensers
A tape dispenser system includes a monolithic plastic injection molded frame with an integral anti-reverse rotation pawl. To help prevent the free end of a roll of tape from accidentally retracting, falling back, and frustratingly bonding onto the coiled portion of the tape, the pawl engages the inner diameter of a cardboard spool that holds the roll of tape. Strategically located mold parting lines and certain air gaps allow injection molding of a dispenser frame that has two spool-supporting sidewalls plus the integral pawl. |
| US09809409B2 |
Printing system and control method therefor
A printing system adapted to supply printed materials from a printing apparatus to a first stacking unit of a first sheet processing apparatus and a second stacking unit of a second sheet processing apparatus is provided. The system includes a receiver and controller, the receiver receiving via a user interface unit a specified instruction allowing the printing system to perform a first type operation that both the first stacking unit and the second stacking unit can be used in printing a job to be processed, the controller causing the printing apparatus to perform the first type operation wherein the specified instruction is received, and the controller causing the printing apparatus to perform a second type operation wherein the specified instruction is not received, the second type operation wherein one of the first stacking unit and the second stacking unit can be used in printing a job to be processed. |
| US09809406B2 |
Sheet conveying device having a corrugation member and image forming apparatus therewith
A sheet conveying device has a pair of upper discharge rollers including a first discharge roller and a first following roller, a second discharge tray, a corrugation member, and a moving mechanism. The first discharge roller is rotatable in forward and reverse directions. The corrugation member corrugates the sheet by making contact with its sheet face. The moving mechanism moves the corrugation member between a first position, where it makes contact with the sheet face of the sheet, and a second position, where it is located above, away from, the nip portion of the pair of upper discharge rollers. An image forming apparatus incorporates such a sheet conveying device. |
| US09809405B2 |
Paper feeding roller
Provided is a paper feeding roller in which recesses due to deformation are unlikely to be formed even when contact with another roller in one location continues for a comparatively long period of time, particularly as a conveying roller or the like. A paper feeding roller that has a shaft measuring 6 mm in exterior diameter pressure-welded to the outer circumferential surface under a load of 600 g in a high-temperature environment of 60° C. for 24 hours is left at room temperature for eight hours while being pressure-welded, after which the recess amount obtained using the difference (T)0−T1, between the thickness T1 (mm) of the position where the shaft was pressure-welded and the thickness T0 (mm) of a position where the shaft was not pressure-welded, is 0.1 mm or less. |
| US09809403B2 |
Sheet feeding device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding device includes a container including a frame, an auxiliary frame member provided on the frame so as to be slidable relative to the frame, and a front cover that covers a front side of the auxiliary frame member, the container being detachably supported in a body of the sheet feeding device; a cover member that covers a top side of the container when the container is attached to the body; and a locking unit that prevents the container attached to the body from being detached from the body when the container is locked and that enables the container to be detached from the body when the container is not locked. |
| US09809400B2 |
Method for the partial emptying of buoyant objects and device for carrying out the method
A method for the partial emptying of buoyant objects, which are stored in a loading aid having at least one opening is provided. A processing weight to be partially emptied is established. A fill weight is determined of the objects in the loading aid via a first weighing. The loading aid is at least partially immersed in a liquid bath. The loading aid is positioned or moved for a retention time predefined as a function of the fill weight and of the processing weight in the bath such that there is an on-average constant flow relative to the loading aid and such that the opening is disposed at least partially below a fill level surface of the bath, whereby the objects are taken along by the flow. The at least partially emptied loading aid is lifted out of the bath after the retention time has elapsed. |
| US09809399B1 |
Air-driven container twisting system
An air-driven container twisting system is configured for changing orientation of containers moving through a material-handling system. The air-driven container twisting system may include a container guide that extends through an air drive arrangement with the container guide configured to direct containers longitudinally while simultaneously rotating the containers while moving through the air-driven container twisting system without the need of declining elevation change and gravity assist. |
| US09809396B2 |
Method and container conveyor for rearranging a container flow, and device having same
A method for separating containers in a densely packed container flow from each other so that they are spaced by a defined distance includes using a compartment star to place the containers on a rearrangement portion and then sweeping the containers forward using catch elements that move along the rearrangement portion so that they arrive at an inlet star with a separation that enables them to be picked up by a waiting inlet-star receptacle. |
| US09809394B2 |
Torque-limiting return stop device
A return stop device with a freewheel having an internal ring, an external ring, and retaining elements arranged in an annular gap therebetween. A flange is provided at the attachment side and a housing part, between which the external ring is clamped, and a clamping device by which the external ring is pressed with its face between the flange and the housing part against a friction area, in order to generate a friction-fitting connection between the flange and the external ring. A release device is provided to at least partially overcome the contact pressure, in order to reduce or remove the friction-fitting connection. The release device includes an actuating organ, which acts upon a first gliding element, displaceable in an operating direction, to act upon a second gliding element, arranged displaceable perpendicular to the operating direction, that acts via a second wedge against the contact pressure upon the housing part. |
| US09809392B2 |
Device and method for transporting containers in a container treatment system
A transport device for transporting containers in a container treatment system which has a first container treatment unit for a process step and a second container treatment unit for the process step, the transport device having at least one receiving point for the containers, at least one delivery point for the containers, a transport track which connects the at least one receiving point, the at least one delivery point, the first container treatment unit, and the second container treatment unit, and at least one transport element for transporting a container, the transport element being movably arranged on the transport track. The transport track and the at least one transport element are designed such that the at least one transport element can be guided from a receiving point to a delivery point in an individually controllable manner. |
| US09809391B2 |
Method and unit for conveying load carriers
In a method for conveying laden or unladen load carriers, the load carriers are conveyed by a first conveying system and a second conveying system which differ from one another in conveying terms. At least one load carrier is picked up and conveyed, at least temporarily, by in each case one conveying device of the first conveying system independently of the second conveying system. The second conveying system at least temporarily conveys a conveying device or an assembly which is formed by a conveying device and at least one load carrier brought together with the latter. A unit for this purpose is also specified. |
| US09809390B2 |
Granular material scoop and near-vertical lifting feeder/conveyor
An integrated granular-material scoop and near-vertical lifting feeder/conveyor includes special connections and skirts between a bullnose rotating scoop and an open-helical screw that provides the rotations and material lift and evacuation. A conical working-face of the bullnose rotating scoop has symmetrically distributed graters and vents to break loose and force-in granular material from natural deposits and cargo holds. The bullnose rotating scoop and the open-helical screw its attached to move the material into a continuous layer on the inside surface of an outer stationary sheathing. A motor drive attached to the open-helical screw above at the delivery end provides the lifting force necessary. |
| US09809387B2 |
Anti-sticking conveyor belt and conveyor strips of frying machine
An anti-sticking conveyor belt of a frying machine includes a first transmission axle and a second transmission axle oppositely disposed, two chains, a plurality of connecting rods and a plurality of conveyor strips. Each conveyor strips is made of a high temperature resistant and anti-sticking material, and includes a conveyor belt surface for conveying fried products, a conveyor lower surface away from each conveyor belt surface, and a channel provided outwards between each conveyor belt surface and each conveyor lower surface. As each conveyor belt surface is greater than each conveyor lower surface and with cooperation of the chains, leveled progressing of the conveyor strips is maintained. At arched positions of the first transmission axle and the second transmission axle, the conveyor lower surfaces do not come into contact with one another, and the conveyor belt surfaces arranged are small to obtain an even and flat conveying plane. |
| US09809386B2 |
Counterweight ore chute system
An ore chute system, comprising: a chute box for collecting material and having a chute opening formed therein for discharging the material therethrough; a chute press gate mounted over the chute opening and moveable between an opened position to allow discharge of the material from the chute box and a closed position to prevent discharge of the material from the chute box; a chute press gate actuator coupled to the chute press gate and controllable to move the chute press gate between the opened position and the closed position; and, a chute press gate counterweight system coupled to the chute press gate and configured to move the chute press gate from the opened position to the closed position upon failure of the chute press gate actuator. |
| US09809385B1 |
Modular chute system
A modular chute system for providing safe convenient access to an inside cavity of the chute system from a variety of locations to enhance safer serviceability features a chute channel formed from a plurality of chute sections. Each chute section is formed from a plurality of rigid structural panels. An edge flange is disposed on each panel edge encompassing an entire panel outer periphery, and the edge flange of one panel is connected to the edge flange of another structural panel. Upon removal of a structural panel or set of adjacent structural panels, the chute channel is self-supporting and non-collapsing. Chute serviceability, such as replacement of interior liners or panels, can be accomplished by removing panels and replacing liners without entering the chute cavity. |
| US09809384B2 |
Inventory system with efficient operator handling of inventory items
An inventory system can include multiple floors. The system can assign operations involving inventory items to a floor based on information about the floor, other floors, the operations, and/or the inventory items. In one example, the system may assign an order to be assembled on a floor based on the floor containing items for the order. Items may be moved to the floor from other floors to complete the order. In another example, a receipt receptacle received from a shipping vehicle can be moved to a rack without separating inventory items from the receipt vehicle. A mobile drive unit can move the rack to a floor based on information known about the inventory items matching criteria about the floor. |
| US09809379B2 |
Beverage cartridge
A cartridge for preparing a beverage comprises a container, a pod for containing a substance from which a beverage is to be extracted, a separating element for protecting the pod, and one or more supporting elements for holding the separating element in a preferred position. The cartridge is of the type which is pierced by at least one piercing tool to allow the injection of a liquid and extraction of a beverage. The separating element comprises a platform upon which the pod is disposed. The platform forms a boundary within the container, thereby defining first and second portions of the container. Liquid is injected into the first portion of the container, and the beverage is removed from the second portion. The separating element is positioned an appropriate distance from the piercing tools by the supporting elements. |
| US09809378B2 |
Flat screen display device packaging system and method
A packaging system and method that can be used to protect a display device. The packaging system includes a front foam panel, a base foam panel and a back foam panel, and two different types of foam for the panels. The base foam panel supports the weight of the display device and absorbs vibrations. The front foam panel protects the screen of the display device by spreading loads over a wider area and reducing the risk of the screen cracking. A back foam panel is made of a lower density foam and supports the display device rear panel in position while taking up the different shapes of the rear panels and allows for variation in thicknesses between different models. |
| US09809377B2 |
Fruit in a bubble wrap mat
A package for compartmentalized preservation of harvested fruit or vegetables and methods are disclosed. The package may include a first flexible polymer film, comprising integral molded or vacuum formed cups configured to hold a fruit or vegetable, wherein the integral molded or vacuum formed cups can be collapsed into a plane of the first polymer film or extended from the first polymer film; and a second flexible polymer film configured to overlay the first polymer film. In some embodiments, the cups containing the fruit or vegetable may be inflated and sealed to form protective bubbles. |
| US09809376B2 |
Soft-sided insulated container with lid fitting
A soft-sided insulated container assembly has a generally box-shaped form like a school lunch box, having a main body and a lid. The lid is formed of one of the largest panels of the box-structure, and is joined to the main body of the box by a hinge that lets the lid lie flat next to the main body when the box is open. The inside face of the lid then defines a work surface on which to place objects such as foodstuffs and beverages. The work surface may be formed in a substantially rigid molded stiffener member, and may be divided into sub-regions with raised retainers to discourage sliding of objects where not precisely level. The container assembly may include a rigid internal liner with which the lid may mate zipperlessly. The mating portion of the lid may be formed in the same rigid member as the work surface. |
| US09809373B2 |
Food container with integral condiment cup
A container for a single serving of ready-to-eat food includes opposing side walls, an open top and a cup integral with at least one of the side walls and protruding into the interior of the container. The cup is used to dispense a condiment to accompany the food. The cup includes at least one first cup wall that is configured to fold against the at least one side wall to dispose the cup in a closed position, and to unfold to open the cup into the interior of the container. The cup is urged towards the open and closed position by an overcenter mode of operation whereby partially opening or closing the cup initially encounters resistance, which causes connected container walls to bow; continued opening or closing past the overcenter point allows container walls to flatten, thereby urging the cup towards the open or shut position. |
| US09809369B2 |
Method and apparatus for material storage, transport and dispensation
An apparatus for material storage, transport and dispensation uses a bag constructed from one of more flexible plastic sheets and forming a chamber for holding material. Reinforced end regions of the bag may be removably coupled to one another to form a self-forming loop. A nozzle is coupled to the chamber by a flexible tube to form an attachment for dispensation of material from the chamber. The attachment may take the form of a shower head, for example. |
| US09809364B2 |
Packaged rodenticidal bait
A packaged rodenticidal bait comprises a soft bait composition enrobed in a perforated thermoplastic film, wherein the soft bait composition comprises a blend of at least one edible fat, at least one particulate food component and at least one rodenticidally-active substance. Preferably, the thermoplastic film comprises one or more polyolefins.The perforated film used in the manufacture of the packaged bait according to the invention does not absorb fat, unlike conventionally-used paper sachets. The packaged bait composition of the invention is palatable to rodents such that rodents may take a lethal dose of a rodenticide from the bait in a single sitting. |
| US09809354B2 |
Method of making a woven plastic bag
A woven plastic bag is made by longitudinally feeding flat-lying fabric web having a layer of woven-together plastic strips on a first face, opposite longitudinal edge regions spaced transversely from each other and each extending over about 10% of a transverse width of the fabric web, and a middle section between the longitudinal edge regions. A pattern is applied the first face of the fabric web in a pattern that repeats along the production direction only locally with a coating in the form of a film or in the form of a liquid plastic of a width or shape that varies transversely, and the fabric web is shaped into a fabric tube. In order to form individual woven plastic bags, the fabric tube is cut transversely into pieces of the fabric tube suitable for subsequent filling and sealing. |
| US09809352B1 |
Product packaging with external product indicator
The present invention is generally related to product packaging, and more particularly to a product packaging having an external sample of the product contained within the packaging and a method of making the product packaging. The present invention is directed to exemplary embodiments of a product packaging having an external sample of the product contained within the packaging. The product packaging is configured to provide a representation of the product contained within the packaging in the product's final and/or applied form. The product packaging may include a product sample swatch that is configured to affixation to a product container containing the product represented by the sample swatch in its non-final form. The present invention is also directed to exemplary embodiments of a method for affixing a product sample swatch to a product container containing the product represented by the sample swatch in its non-final form. |
| US09809350B2 |
Configurable shipping crate assembly
A bracket for securing a plurality of support members for a shipping crate assembly is also disclosed. The bracket forms a corner of the shipping crate assembly. The bracket includes first and second non-identical plates. The first and second non-identical plates are joined along a connection line. The first and second non-identical plates extend perpendicularly from each other. A foot is secured to the first and second non-identical plates, the foot being secured along the connection line. |
| US09809338B2 |
Device and method for loading a storage area
A loading device to supply successively with cardboard sheets a station for handling the sheets by folding to form from them boxes for packaging, the handling station having a storage area to receive the successive sheets, optionally grouped in bundles, the device itself having a manipulator that includes: a gripping tool to pick up the sheets; an actuator to move the tool between an inventory of sheets and the receiving storage area of the station; a detection unit for detecting the status of filling of the storage area; and a control unit that directs the action of the device and that receives detection information from the detection unit to do this, the control unit being independent of the control of the handling station and programmable to adapt the operation of the loading device to the type of sheets handled. A corresponding process is also described. |
| US09809337B2 |
Standing tree compression ring
A standing tree branch compression ring is adapted to be vertically raised about the trunk of the tree by lifting means. As the ring is lifted it forceably moves the tree branches inward. A plastic ring liner is removably affixed to the outer surface of the ring to reduce its coefficient of friction to mitigate tree branch damage. The ring is polygonal and includes a fully releasable segment to accept the tree trunk from the side. The segment is then reaffixed by a mating tongue and slot joint at one end a latch at the other end before it is raised. |
| US09809335B2 |
Method for bag closure and sealing
A method and apparatus for sealing a bag made of a polymeric material by applying heat activated layers on different portions of the bag, wherein the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer have respective heat activation temperatures below the softening point temperature of the polymeric material; after creasing the bag along a fold line, applying heat at a temperature below the softening point temperature of the polymeric material to activate the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer to adhesive states after the bag has been filled with contents; and folding the bag to form an adhesive-to adhesive seal by contact between the heat activated first adhesive layer and the heat activated second adhesive layer. |
| US09809331B2 |
Mandrel for applying and cutting shrink sleeve material to containers
A mandrel assembly for use in shrink sleeve labeler machines includes a replaceable insert having a cutting slot that is spaced apart from both upper and lower elements of the mandrel assembly. |
| US09809325B2 |
Aircraft system component carrier system and mounting method
An aircraft system component carrier system includes at least one aircraft system component carrier module, at least one aircraft system component that is fastened via an aircraft system component holder to the aircraft system component carrier module, and an aircraft structural element of a fuselage upper shell, to which element the aircraft system component carrier module is fastened via a structural holder in such a way that the aircraft system component carrier module, the aircraft system component and the aircraft structural element form an assembly group that is capable of being handled independently. |
| US09809321B2 |
Electrical power distribution system with localized distribution conversion units
An electrical power distribution system for converting and distributing electrical power to local loads within a vehicle is disclosed. The electrical power distribution system includes at least one generator providing high voltage AC (HVAC) power, a primary power panel for receiving the HVAC power from the generator, and a plurality of distribution conversion units located throughout the vehicle. The plurality of distribution conversion units convert the HVAC power from the primary power panel into medium voltage AC (MVAC) power and low voltage DC (LVDC) power for consumption by the local loads within the vehicle. The electrical power distribution system also includes a plurality of HVAC distribution feeder lines. Each HVAC distribution feeder line connects the primary power panel to one of the plurality of distribution conversion units. |
| US09809320B2 |
System and apparatus for refueling aircraft from a watercraft
The invention is a watercraft to aircraft refueling system (“WARS”). A WARS is a refueling system based from a watercraft, such as a surface ship or submarine. A WARS would typically include an elevation apparatus to lift a refueling hose above the water. The elevation apparatus can compose a lifting or swiveling mechanism. In some embodiments both a lifting and swiveling mechanism is used. The WARS lifts the refueling hose above the water, allowing an aircraft to engage with the WARS. The refueling hose may also include a telescoping mechanism or a rotor apparatus or a pressurized water nozzle system to elevate the refueling hose and assist in engaging a WARS with an aircraft. |
| US09809314B2 |
Aircraft air conditioning system and method of operating an aircraft air conditioning system
An aircraft air conditioning system comprises a process air line configured to supply compressed process air provided by a process air source to an air conditioning unit of the aircraft air conditioning system and a trim air line branching off from the process air line upstream of the air conditioning unit and being configured such that trim air flows through the trim air line, the trim air having been branched off from the compressed process air flowing through the process air line. A compressor is arranged in the trim air line and is configured to compress the trim air flowing through the trim air line. A turbine of the aircraft air conditioning system is configured to drive the compressor. A cabin exhaust air line is configured to supply cabin exhaust air discharged from an aircraft cabin to the turbine for driving the turbine. |
| US09809313B2 |
Cabin altitude alerting systems and methods
Systems and methods for intelligently alerting the flight crew of a cabin depressurization. An example system includes a cabin altimeter that generates a cabin pressure value, an alerting device, such as a speaker system and a processing device in data communication with the cabin altimeter and the alerting device. The processing device determines if there is a problem with the cabin pressure received from the cabin altimeter, determines rate of change of the cabin pressure, and sets at least one of an alert volume or an alert frequency based on the cabin pressure and the rate of change of the cabin pressure if it was determined that a problem exists with the cabin pressure. The processing device also issues a cabin depressurization alert over the alerting device based on at least one of the set alert volume or alert frequency, if there is a problem with the cabin pressure value. |
| US09809309B2 |
Adjustable restraint assemblies
Systems and methods are disclosed herein for guide assemblies. A guide assembly may comprise a sliding rail comprising a first channel and a second channel, a first fitting comprising a first retaining rail, wherein the first retaining rail is configured to slide within the first channel, and a second fitting comprising a second retaining rail, wherein the second retaining rail is configured to slide within the second channel. |
| US09809307B1 |
Methods and systems for providing a safety apparatus to distressed persons
Various embodiments of the present invention comprise systems for providing a lifesaving apparatus to a distressed individual. Such systems may comprise an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) configured to selectably support a lifesaving apparatus. The UAV may comprise a release mechanism configured to release the lifesaving apparatus when proximate a distressed person. The system may additionally comprise a control device configured to wirelessly communicate with the UAV such that a user can pilot the UAV from a distance and deliver the lifesaving apparatus to a distressed person. Methods of using the same may comprise piloting the UAV proximate a distressed person, providing a signal to the UAV to release the lifesaving apparatus by operating the release mechanism, and then pulling the lifesaving apparatus and the distressed person to safety via a control line secured to the lifesaving apparatus. |
| US09809305B2 |
Landing of unmanned aerial vehicles on transportation vehicles for transport
Unmanned aerial vehicles (“UAVs”) which fly to destinations (e.g., for delivering items) may land on transportation vehicles (e.g., delivery trucks, etc.) for temporary transport. An agreement with the owner of the transportation vehicles (e.g., a shipping carrier) may be made for obtaining consent and determining compensation for landings, and the associated transportation vehicles that are available for landings may be identified by markers on the roof or other identification techniques. The routes of the transportation vehicles may be known and utilized to determine locations where UAVs will land on and take off from the transportation vehicles, and in cases of emergencies (e.g., due to low batteries, mechanical issues, etc.) the UAVs may land on the transportation vehicles for later retrieval. |
| US09809303B2 |
Rotor position determination system with magneto-resistive sensors
According to one embodiment, a method for determining a position of a rotor blade includes receiving a plurality of measurements from a plurality of magneto-resistive sensors and determining a position of the at least one magnet based on the received plurality of measurements. In this example, one of the plurality of magneto-resistive sensors and the at least one magnet moves with a rotor blade. |
| US09809302B2 |
Differential braking of aircraft landing gear wheels
A method of braking left and right landing gear wheels on respective left and right sides of an aircraft. A desired left braking parameter (L) is received for the left wheel and a desired right braking parameter (R) is received for the right wheel. The left wheel is braked with a reduced left braking parameter (L′) which is less than the desired left braking parameter (L), and the right wheel is braked with a reduced right braking parameter (R′) which is less than the desired right braking parameter (R). A difference between the braking parameters is maintained so that L′−R′=L−R. |
| US09809295B1 |
Flight actuated door seal
A sealing system for an aircraft having an opening and a door movable between an open condition spaced from the opening and a closed condition covering and sealing the opening includes a cover plate connected to the aircraft adjacent the opening. A first magnetic coupling secured to the cover plate includes a first plurality of magnets. A second magnetic coupling configured for securing to the door includes a second plurality of magnets. The first magnetic coupling is repelled by the second magnetic coupling when the couplings have a first degree of alignment with one another. This causes the cove plot move away from the door. The first magnetic coupling is attracted to the second magnetic coupling when the couplings have a second degree of alignment with one another greater than the first degree, causing the magnetic couplings to engage one another and seal the opening in the aircraft. |
| US09809294B2 |
High altitude balloon with altitude control
A high altitude balloon including a balloon film, a lifting gas disposed within the balloon film, a payload operably coupled to the balloon film, and a heat transfer element operably coupled between the payload and the balloon film configured to transfer heat from the payload to the lifting gas causing a change in buoyancy of the high altitude balloon. |
| US09809284B2 |
Stringerless surfboard with channels
A lightweight surfboard that is rigid yet provides uniform flex characteristic without the use of a traditional wooden stringer includes a stringerless blank foam and a set of channels shaped into a top portion of the body of the surfboard. The set of channels comprises a pair of adjacent, axially extending elongated concave grooves that run along the length of the set of channels, meet at their end points and form a convex center section. The convex center section of the set of channels provides the support to prevent the board from breaking due to the bending of the surfboard while being ridden on the wave. A laminating layer may be glassed on the set of channels for additional strength. The laminating layer may include fiberglass cloth, Kevlar, carbon fiber or any suitable material. |
| US09809283B2 |
Multifunctional carrying device for tidal stream generator and using method thereof
A multifunctional carrying device for a tidal stream generator and a using method thereof, the multifunctional carrying device for a tidal stream generator comprises: an elongated main floating body; carrying frames, horizontally extending towards the left side and the right side from the center part of the elongated main floating body, an end part of the carrying frames being used for carrying the tidal stream generator; the elongated main floating body being a central floating control pipe (100) with two ends sealed, cable tying locations being positioned at the two ends of the central floating control pipe (100), a pipe air inlet/outlet (702) being disposed above one end of the central floating control pipe (100) and a pipe water inlet/outlet (704) being disposed below the other end of the central floating control pipe (100); a remote air pipe (700), having one end connected to the pipe air inlet/outlet (702) and the other end connected to a control switch (707); the central floating control pipe (100) being connected to the carrying frames using orthogonal node components; and automatic depth-fixing and stabilizing parts (400), evenly disposed, along a vertical bisection plane of the orthogonal node components, on rigid parts that are directly connected to the orthogonal node components. The device has an efficient floating and sinking control function and an automatic depth-fixing and stabilizing function. |
| US09809282B2 |
Liquefied gas transfer device for reducing boil-off gas
Provided is a liquefied gas transfer device for reducing boil-off gas. The liquefied gas transfer device for reducing boil-off gas comprises: at least one transfer pipe formed in a vertical direction inside a quay for storing liquefied gas so as to transfer the liquefied gas; a branch pipe which is branched from a lower part of the transfer pipe to one side of the transfer pipe, and which has an end part opened toward a bottom surface of the quay; a valve which is connected to the branch pipe and/or the transfer pipe, and which opens and closes the branch pipe or the transfer pipe so as to move the liquefied gas from the transfer pipe to the branch pipe; and a resistance member disposed inside the branch pipe so as to interrupt the flow of the liquefied gas. |
| US09809279B2 |
One dual purpose boat
This invention is type of dual-purpose boat, including cabin and hull. This boat is unique in that between the cabin and hull there is a lifting mechanism connecting the hull and cabin, at least one of which has been set up with a buoyancy regulating structure. This invention can be used as a regular boat, or if the cabin is lowered, this invention becomes a semi-submerged vessel that can be used for operational purposes or underwater sightseeing. When the invention enters shallow water or needs to navigate at high speed, the cabin can be raised to prevent beaching and to reduce resistance. The operation of this invention is simple and expands the single function of current boats. |
| US09809278B2 |
Apparatus for reducing an engaging force of an engaging member
An apparatus for reducing an engaging force of an engaging member for a bicycle component comprises a first engaging member and a movable second engaging member, wherein the first engaging member engages the second engaging member. A biasing mechanism applies a biasing force to bias the first engaging member and the second engaging member towards each other, wherein the biasing mechanism reduces the biasing force when the second engaging member moves. |
| US09809271B2 |
Wheeled vehicle, especially for children
This vehicle is equipped with front and rear wheels and comprises a platform, a foldable/unfoldable steering column and a locking mechanism. According to the invention: the platform includes a cylindrical well (13), the axis of which is tilted according to an angle from 30° to 60° towards the rear of this platform (2). The steering column has a lower bent portion, connected to a cylindrical base (22) intended to be engaged into the well (13) with pivoting capability, the axis of this base (22) forming, with the axis according to which the remainder of the steering column (5) extends longitudinally, an angle complementary to 180° with the angle formed by the axis of the well (13). The locking mechanism includes a first device (16, 17; 27, 32) for angularly blocking the base (22) in the well (13), in the unfolding position of the steering column, and a second device (16, 18; 27, 32) for angularly blocking the base (22) in the well (13), in the folding position of the steering column. |
| US09809270B2 |
Six-wheel all-terrain vehicle
A vehicle has a frame, a motor connected to the frame, two front wheels operatively connected to the frame, two intermediate wheels operatively connected to the frame, the two intermediate wheels being disposed rearward of the two front wheels, two rear wheels operatively connected to the frame, the two rear wheels being disposed rearward of the intermediate wheels, a driver seat connected to the frame, a passenger seat disposed at least in part rearward of the driver seat, the driver seat and the passenger seat being straddle seats, and a cargo box connected to the frame, the passenger seat being disposed at least in part forward of the cargo box. |
| US09809269B2 |
Scooter with rotatable platform
A scooter having a riding platform rotationally engaged to a front steering assembly is provided which significantly increases the ability of riders to perform tricks. The riding platform is rotationally engaged to the steering column which itself may be employed as a riding platform. An optional mechanism may be employed whereby the riding platform is rotated by a spin of the steering column with the handlebars. The scooter may also be equipped with skids to allow employment in the snow or on ice. |
| US09809263B2 |
Articulating cart system
An articulating cart system which utilizes an articulating frame to effectively maneuver within tight spaces and a low-elevation platform to ease mounting and dismounting the cart. The articulating cart system generally includes a front frame and a rear frame. A platform is connected to the front frame so that the platform pivots or articulates along with the front frame with respect to the rear frame. A joystick controller may be provided which allows one-handed operation. One or more actuators may be connected between the rear frame and the front frame for pivoting the front frame with respect to the rear frame. A motor is provided to power the actuators and frame wheels. The platform is close to the ground to ease access for the operator. Utilizing the articulating frame, the present invention may traverse much tighter spaces and turns than is possible with previous cart systems. |
| US09809260B2 |
Segmented trailer side skirt fairing
To improve the aerodynamic efficiency of a vehicle trailer, one or more aerodynamic components are positioned on the trailer. In some examples described herein, the one or more aerodynamic components are in the form of side skirt fairing segments, which are positioned underneath the trailer and forward of the wheel assembles. In use, the one or more side skirt fairing segments improve air flow underneath the trailer and in the vicinity of the wheel assemblies, thereby reducing drag. |
| US09809258B2 |
Vehicle body structure
A side sill is configured from a side sill outer element comprising an outer upper wall, outer lower wall, an outer side wall, an outer upper flange and an outer lower flange, and from a side sill inner element comprising an inner upper wall, an inner lower wall, an inner side wall, an inner upper flange and an inner lower flange. On the lower end, a pillar has a joint portion held between and joined to the outer upper flange and the inner upper flange, and a first extension part and a second extension part extending from the joint portion into the closed section of the side sill, and includes an extension, the top end of which is joined to the first extension part and/or the second extension part and the bottom end of which is held between and joined to the outer lower flange and the inner lower flange. |
| US09809254B2 |
End structure of a motor vehicle body
An end structure of a motor vehicle body has two longitudinal struts which extend along respective axes have respective ends, on which respective attachment plates are fitted; the attachment plates have respective walls, which are ring-shaped about longitudinal axes and defined frontally by respective faces having substantially vertical and flat resting zones; two supporting plates rest respectively on these resting zones and are fixed to the walls and to two buffering elements, which are substantially coaxial to the struts; the two attachment plates further have respective tabs, which are radiused to said walls at an inner annular perimeter thereof and end with respective edges, which are longitudinally aligned with the supporting plates. |
| US09809252B2 |
Rear structure of a motor vehicle
A motor vehicle rear structure includes an underframe component to support a motor vehicle floor and in which a tunnel is formed, an axle component including a central part and two lateral parts that define a space to accommodate a component of the vehicle, an articulation device including a first articulation element and a second articulation element which are able to pivot relative to one another, and at least one front reinforcing element fixed to the second articulation element and to the tunnel. The rear structure is arranged in such a way that said at least one front reinforcing element allows at least some of a load in the direction of travel of the motor vehicle derived from the axle component to be transmitted to the tunnel. |
| US09809247B2 |
Motor control current sensor loss of assist mitigation for electric power steering
A power steering system includes a torque modifier module that generates a modified torque command in response to a current sensor fault, a magnitude of the modified torque command changes over a time period. The power steering system also includes a feedforward selection module that applies a dynamic feedforward compensation to a motor current command, thereby generating a motor voltage that is applied to a motor of the power steering system, the dynamic feedforward compensation modifies a frequency response of the power steering system. |
| US09809244B2 |
Housing structure and steering apparatus
A housing structure includes first and second housings and first and second rotation transmitting members. The first and second housings house a shaft. The first rotation transmitting member is provided coaxially with the shaft. The second rotation transmitting member is arranged so as to transmit power to the first rotation transmitting member. The first and second housings are combined with each other so that mating surfaces of the first and second housings that are unparallel to an axis of the shaft are contacted. The first housing includes a first guide portion that protrudes from the mating surface of the first housing. The second housing includes a second guide portion that engages with the first guide portion. The first and second guide portions are engaged with each other along a circumferential direction of the axis and guide relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing around the axis. |
| US09809242B2 |
Synthetic turf storage and handling system
A cart for use with rolls of synthetic turf comprising a first and second spaced apart longitudinal members; first and second lateral members between the first and second longitudinal members, the lateral members having at least one hitch ball disposed thereon; a plurality of lateral members between the first and second longitudinal members with one or more having an opening sized to receive a fork on a forklift and a hitch ball disposed thereon; first, second, third and fourth swivel casters having at least one wheel and disposed inside a perimeter defined by the first and second longitudinal members and the first and second lateral member; and a support member having at least one curved surface to from a cradle for receiving the one or more rolls of synthetic turf. |
| US09809239B1 |
Trolley for collecting waste
A trolley for collecting waste includes: wheels, a steering handle, and a housing with a bottomwall and a sidewall extending vertically from the bottomwall, wherein the housing forms a waste chamber, wherein the sidewall comprises an opening, wherein a flap is connected by a first bearing to the sidewall of the housing, such that the flap is pivotable about a horizontal flap axis between a closing position and an opening position. The flap in its closing position closes the opening of the sidewall, and the flap in its opening position opens the opening in the sidewall, wherein the handle is connected by a second bearing to the housing, such that the handle is pivotable about a handle axis between a first handle position and a second handle position, and the handle is linked to the flap by a mechanical linkage, such that pivoting the handle from its second handle position to its first handle position results in a pivoting of the flap from its opening position to its closing position. |
| US09809236B2 |
Railroad electric power management system
A railroad electric power management system includes a service management system, a station management system and a control system. The service management system performs service management of railroad vehicles. The station management system performs operation management of a station facility. The control system controls the service management system and the station management system such that a sum of first electric power consumption and second electric power consumption is to be equal to or less than a certain electric-power regulation value. the first electric power consumption is consumed by the railroad vehicles. The second electric power consumption is consumed by the station facility. |
| US09809228B2 |
Wearable device and method of operating the same
Provided is a wearable device including a main body that is configured to be worn on a specific portion of a user's body, a sensing unit, provided in the main body, that senses a biological signal of a user, a storage unit that collects log information relating to the biological signal, and in which an index pattern relating to a state of the user included in the collected log information is stored, and a controller that sets a reference driving index, using the stored index pattern, in which when it is sensed that the user gets in a vehicle, the controller determines a current driving index corresponding to the biological signal that is sensed before and after the user gets in the vehicle, based on the reference driving index being set, and outputs feedback that notifies the state of the user that corresponds to a result of the determination. |
| US09809224B2 |
Battery charge/discharge control apparatus
A battery charge/discharge control apparatus for controlling charge/discharge of a battery in a vehicle as defined herein, includes: a battery control portion which is provided for controlling charge/discharge of the battery; a vehicle control portion which controls the inverter and the engine and controls the charge/discharge of the battery based on information from the battery control portion; a failure determination portion which determines whether there is a failure in the battery control portion or not; and an inverter driving state detection portion which detects a driving state of the inverter; wherein: the vehicle control portion controls the charge/discharge of the battery based on the driving state of the inverter detected by the inverter driving state detection portion when the failure determination portion determines that there is a failure in the battery control portion. |
| US09809217B2 |
Control device for hybrid vehicle
With the control device, when the traveling state of the vehicle 1A is a specified traveling state in which greater change than a reference value of the torque upon the output portion 11 due to input to the drive wheels Dw from the road surface over which the vehicle is traveling has occurred a plural number of times within a predetermined time interval, then when the selectable one-way clutch 12 is in the locked mode it is changed over to the free mode, and when the selectable one-way clutch 12 is in the free mode it is kept in the free mode. |
| US09809214B2 |
Battery state of charge control using route preview data
A vehicle includes an engine and at least one controller. A first engine cycling command based on route information and a second engine cycling command independent of route information are generated. The engine transitions state according to the first engine cycling command when the second engine cycling command permits the transition. When a first engine cycling profile based on route information includes at least a number of engine cycles, the engine is cycled according to the first engine cycling profile, otherwise, the engine is cycled according to an engine cycling state derived independent of route information. The vehicle includes a traction battery. A state of charge of the traction battery is controlled according to a target state of charge that is derived using route information and a base battery power reference that is independent of route information. |
| US09809208B2 |
Planet carrier for an electromechanical actuator of a parking brake, actuator and assembly methods
The invention proposes a planet carrier (50) for a planetary gear train of a reducing mechanism of an electromechanical actuator for actuating a parking brake of a motor vehicle, which carries planet pinions (52), each of which is accommodated between two parallel support plates (56, 58) belonging to a reinforcement (54) of the planet carrier and each of which is mounted in rotation on the planet carrier (50) about a rotation guide pin (74) that is mounted between the two support plates (56, 58) to which it is linked by the two opposing axial ends thereof, characterized in that each rotation guide pin (74) is a tubular pin. |
| US09809201B2 |
Windscreen wiper
The invention relates to a support fitting (10) for a windscreen wiper, the said fitting (10) comprising a body with a longitudinal direction of extension (X), the said body comprising first means which are designed to receive a bending vertebra (20) and second means which define an open lower receptacle (13) for receipt of an upper heel for fitting of a wiping blade of the wiper, characterized in that the said second means comprise recesses (52) which facilitate the bending of the said vertebra (20).The invention also relates to a windscreen wiper comprising a fitting (10) of this type. The invention also relates to a wiping system comprising a wiper of this type. |
| US09809199B2 |
Wiper arm device
A wiper arm device comprising a wiper arm unit which has at least one wiper rod, and comprising at least one nozzle unit which is provided for applying washer fluid onto a vehicle window, and which, in an installed state, is arranged at least substantially laterally on the wiper arm unit. The nozzle unit, in the installed state, is arranged at least substantially as an extension of a wiper rod of the wiper arm unit and is fastened to the wiper arm unit by a latching connection. |
| US09809196B1 |
Methods and systems for vehicle security and remote access and safety control interfaces and notifications
Methods, systems and media are provided for managing personal security of a user of a vehicle. The vehicle is provided with a plurality of active sensors. One method includes receiving a first remote request at the vehicle to activate a first level of security. The first level of security activates a first active sensor. The method includes recording an area proximate to vehicle in response to activating the first level of security. The recording produces a media file. The method includes transmitting the media file to Internet storage associated with an account of the user of the vehicle. The method includes setting indicators, such as lighting in and around the vehicle to identify a security level of the vehicle. The lighting can be color illumination, that indicates to a user before the user fully approaches the vehicle if the vehicle has a particular security level, based on prior monitored activity. |
| US09809185B2 |
Method and apparatus for subjective command control of vehicle systems
A system includes a processor in communication with at least one input, and configured to control at least one vehicle system. The processor is further configured to receive a command including a subjective element. The processor is also configured to access a mapping associated with a user from whom the command originated to retrieve a user-specific meaning, the mapping defining user-specific meanings for at least one subjective element. Further, the processor is configured to apply a user-specific meaning to an implementation of the command, such that a vehicle system is adjusted in accordance with both the subjective element and the user-specific meaning associated therewith. |
| US09809182B2 |
Voltage supply and drive system for a fire service vehicle or rescue vehicle or special utility vehicle and method for controlling same
A voltage supply and drive system for a fire service vehicle or rescue vehicle or special utility vehicle has at least one drive source and having a plurality of voltage sources which are connected to one another by an electrical power system, and a control device. At least one of the voltage sources is formed by a battery, characterized in that the control device is designed to connect or disconnect one or more voltage sources and/or one or more drive sources taking into account at least one emission value of at least one of the voltage sources and/or at least one of the drive sources. As a result, the voltage and/or drive sources which are integrated into the voltage supply and drive system of the fire service vehicle and rescue vehicle or special utility vehicle can be operated, combined in such a way that an overall minimal emission value can be achieved. |
| US09809181B2 |
Systems and methods for covering access ports
An access port cover system, including a housing for an item, the housing defining interior and exterior regions and including an access port through which access to the item from the exterior region is provided, a cover inhibiting access through the access port from the exterior region to the interior region, and a fastener connectable to the housing and the cover. The fastener has an actuation portion for disconnecting the housing and the cover to permit access through the access port from the exterior region to the interior region, the actuation portion being inaccessible from the exterior region when the fastener is connected to the housing and the cover. |
| US09809177B1 |
Polymeric components with integral connectors
In at least one implementation, a first component includes a first connector and a second component includes a second connector adapted to couple with the first connector to connect together the first component and second component. The first component may be formed from a polymer and have an exterior show surface, and the first connector may have a first opening bounded by a retainer. The second component may also be formed from a polymer and include an exterior show surface, and the second connector may have a second opening and a flexible and resilient tab that has an unflexed position in which the tab at least partially overlaps the opening. In assembly, the first connector is coupled to the second connector with the retainer at least partially extending through the second opening, the tab being received within the first opening and overlapped by the retainer. |
| US09809176B2 |
Method for stitching vehicle interior components and components formed from the method
A method of applying stitching to an interior component having an outer skin layer, a substrate layer and an intermediary layer located between the outer skin layer and the substrate layer is provided herein. The method including the steps of: a) penetrating the interior component to form a piercing therethrough; b) retracting the awl from the interior component; c) inserting a needle of a robotic sewing head through the piercing to grasp a thread; d) pulling the thread through the interior component; e) looping the thread with a previous stitch passed through the component; f) advancing the robotic sewing head to another position with respect to the interior component, wherein a backside of the substrate layer is free of obstructions; and g) repeating steps a-f until a predetermined amount of stitches are applied to the interior component. |
| US09809171B2 |
Vision system for vehicle
A vision system for a vehicle includes a first imager located at a front portion of the vehicle, a second imager located at the rear of the vehicle, a third imager located in a first exterior rearview mirror assembly of the vehicle and a fourth imager located in a second exterior rearview mirror assembly of the vehicle. Responsive to the vehicle being shifted into a reverse gear, (a) video images derived from image data captured by the second imager are displayed on a video display screen and (b) responsive at least in part to processing of captured image data by a common image processor, the driver of the vehicle is alerted to the presence of an object exterior the equipped vehicle. When the vehicle travels forward, the common image processor processes first image data captured by the first imager for at least a lane departure warning system of the vehicle. |
| US09809166B2 |
Alarm device for vehicle
An alarm device for a vehicle has a sensor section detecting that the hand of a passenger approaches an opening and closing operation section H and sending an operation detecting signal, a vehicle detector detecting another vehicle approaching from behind and sending a vehicle detecting signal, a vibration unit vibrating the opening and closing operation section H, a lamp section arranged on a pillar and displaying a warning sign with the irradiation of light, and a ECU (Electric Control Unit). When the ECU receives the vehicle detecting signal and the operation detecting signal, the vibration unit operates and a warning sign is displayed on the lamp section. Thereby, when another vehicle approaches, it is possible to prevent the passenger from opening operation of the door body. |
| US09809165B1 |
System and method for minimizing driver distraction of a head-up display (HUD) in a vehicle
A method and vehicle system for reducing driver distractions caused by a head-up display (HUD). The HUD projects one or more graphic elements onto a windshield in view of a driver of the vehicle. The vehicle system determines a content status of the one or more projected graphic elements. The vehicle system detects one or more objects within an environment of the vehicle. The vehicle system determines whether the content status of the one or more projected graphic elements satisfies a driver distraction criterion. The vehicle then notifies the driver of the one or more detected objects when the content status of the one or more projected graphic element satisfies the driver distraction criterion. |
| US09809164B2 |
Travel control apparatus for vehicle
A travel control apparatus for a vehicle detects a vehicle to be passed that is an target of passing and is located in front of a vehicle equipped with the travel control apparatus in a traveling lane thereof on the basis of peripheral environment information and travel information, detects a following vehicle that is behind the vehicle in the traveling lane thereof as a following vehicle in the original lane on the basis of the peripheral environment information, monitors the vehicle to be passed and the following vehicle in the original lane, and variably controls a passing maneuver with respect to the vehicle to be passed on the basis of a monitoring result. |
| US09809162B2 |
Vehicle interior spotlight
The invention relates to a vehicle interior light (3) for spot-illuminating a surface (10, 10′) inside the vehicle to be illuminated, comprising a light source, the main emitting direction of which does not coincide with the direction in which the surface to be illuminated lies, and a deflecting lens system, which alters both the opening angle and the direction of the central axis of the cone of light emitted by the light source. The deflecting lens system is formed by at least two lens bodies (14, 15, 16) arranged in succession in the beam path of the light source and working by means of light refraction, the central axes (18, 19, 20) and optically active lens surfaces of which lens bodies are inclined with respect to one another. |
| US09809160B2 |
Tailgate illumination system
An illumination system for a vehicle includes a truck bed defining a cargo space, a bumper positioned vehicle rearward of the truck bed, and a tailgate defining a recessed surface and rotatable between substantially open and substantially closed positions. A first optically interactive portion is positioned on the truck bed and a second optically interactive portion is positioned on the tailgate. A light source is positioned on the recessed surface of the tailgate. The light source and the first and second optically interactive surfaces are configured to illuminate the cargo space when the tailgate is in the substantially open position and illuminate the bumper when the tailgate is in the substantially closed position. |
| US09809159B1 |
System and methods for detecting vehicle braking events using data from fused sensors in mobile devices
One or more braking event detection computing devices and methods are disclosed herein based on fused sensor data collected during a window of time from various sensors of a mobile device found within an interior of a vehicle. The various sensors of the mobile device may include a GPS receiver, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a microphone, a camera, and a magnetometer. Data from vehicle sensors and other external systems may also be used. The braking event detection computing devices may adjust the polling frequency of the GPS receiver of the mobile device to capture non-consecutive data points based on the speed of the vehicle, the battery status of the mobile device, traffic-related information, and weather-related information. The braking event detection computing devices may use classification machine learning algorithms on the fused sensor data to determine whether or not to classify a window of time as a braking event. |
| US09809158B2 |
External indicators and notifications for vehicles with autonomous capabilities
A method for notifying a third party or a third party device (e.g., a mobile phone or a second vehicle) as to whether a first vehicle is operating in an autonomous mode or a semi-autonomous mode. The method includes receiving, at a first electronic control unit, notification information including whether the first vehicle is operating in the autonomous mode or the semi-autonomous mode and a description of or details about the first vehicle and transmitting from a transmitter of the first vehicle to a receiver of the third party device, the notification information. The method also includes displaying, using a display screen of the third party device, the notification information including whether the first vehicle is operating in the autonomous mode or the semi-autonomous mode and the description of or the details about the first vehicle. |
| US09809155B2 |
Retractable steering column assembly having lever, vehicle having retractable steering column assembly, and method
A steering column assembly includes a steering column having a longitudinal axis; and a lever. The lever includes a first end and a second end. The second end of the lever is attached to the steering column. A hinge is disposed between the first end and the second end of the lever. The first end of the lever is biased away from the steering column in a first condition and folded at the hinge towards the steering column in a second condition. |
| US09809153B2 |
Headlamp for vehicle and vehicle including the same
A headlamp includes a light-emitting module that includes a condenser lens that defines an optical axis through a center of the condenser lens and that is configured to focus light incident on a rear surface of the condenser lens. The light-emitting module further includes a laser light source that is located behind the condenser lens and that is configured to generate light toward the condenser lens. The light-emitting module further includes a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) scanner that is located in front of the condenser lens, that is configured to reflect, toward the condenser lens, light generated by the laser light source, and that is configured to scan light generated by the laser light source by moving horizontally and vertically. The light-emitting module further includes a reflection unit that is located behind the condenser lens and that is configured to reflect light reflected by the MEMS scanner. |
| US09809151B2 |
Adjustment device for aiming two oppositely pivoted lamp elements of a motor vehicle
An adjustment device is provided for aiming two oppositely pivoted lamp elements. That device includes a single aim adjuster screw, a first connection connecting the adjuster screw to a first lamp element and a second connection connecting the adjuster screw to a second lamp element. One turns the adjuster screw to simultaneously pivot the first and second lamp elements in opposite directions and thereby aim the two lamp elements in a synchronous manner. |
| US09809147B2 |
Position-limiting device
A position-limiting device includes a base and a position-limiting member rotatably provided on the base, the position-limiting device further includes a positioning member. The base has a hollow portion. The position-limiting member is switchable between a position-limiting state and a non-position-limiting state, when the position-limiting member is in the position-limiting state, the positioning member fixes the position of the position-limiting member; and when the position-limiting member is in the non-position-limiting state, the positioning member releases the position-limiting member, and at least a part of the position-limiting member is received in the hollow portion. The position-limiting member can switch between the position-limiting state and the non-position-limiting state, and the positioning member can fix the position of the position-limiting member and release the position-limiting member; and in the non-position-limiting state, at least a part of the position-limiting member is received in the hollow portion of the base. |
| US09809146B2 |
Generic rack transportation top cap
A top cap for securing items during shipping is disclosed. The top cap consists of a body having one or more features configured to engage the top of the item being shipped. In certain embodiments, the engagements features are adjustable and may accommodate different sizes of items to be shipped. The body also comprises one or more constraint securement features configured to receive constraints such that the top cap may be secured to structural elements of a container in which the item is being shipped. Although not limited to particular applications, the top cap is particularly suited for securing computer racks for shipment. |
| US09809140B2 |
Platform system for vehicle interior
At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be a disassemblable platform system in a pickup truck cab, or other vehicle, such as, but not limited to, a SUV or van that (after installation), comprises: a plurality of panels (generally, 40, as installed) relatively positioned to form a flat, raised rigid platform 41 in a pickup truck cab and that is elevated above lower seat cushions, where such panels include two rear panels 1,2 (i.e., in the rear seat area), a driver area panel 3, a passenger area panel 6, and a console area panel 42 between said driver area panel and said passenger area panel. The system further includes horizontal supports 43 that underlie at least some of said panels, such horizontal supports including at least two right-left horizontal support bars 44 (i.e., a horizontal support bar that is installed in a right-left direction defined by the vehicle); and panel-attached horizontal supports 45, each of which is attached to a panel to which it is dedicated. |
| US09809137B2 |
Securing covers over foam cushions
A covered foam cushion (10), such as for an automotive seat, has a foam bun (12) with a contoured outer surface defining an elongated trench (16) between opposing side walls (18, 20). A retainer (28, 28a) is permanently secured to the foam bun and recessed within the trench between the side walls. A cover (14) extends over at least a portion of the foam bun and is held in place by a clip (26, 26a) permanently secured to a distal edge of a flange (24) of the cover within the trench of the foam bun. The clip is fastened to the retainer and has lateral protrusions (30, 30a) that bear against the opposing side walls of the trench. |
| US09809134B2 |
Automatically aligning latching arrangement
A seat assembly includes a striker pin that is mounted to either a vehicle floor or a seat bottom. A latch assembly is mounted to the other of the vehicle floor and the seat bottom, and is configured to engage the striker pin. A pivot bracket assembly includes a first bracket member that is attached to the seat bottom and pivotally attached to a second bracket member which is fixedly mounted to the vehicle floor. One or both of the first bracket of the pivot bracket assembly and the latch plate of the latch assembly is movable relative to the vehicle floor and the seat bottom to facilitate alignment of the opening in the latch plate with the striker pin. |
| US09809133B2 |
Reclining seat assembly
A reclining seat assembly includes a seat frame, and a backrest frame supported by the seat frame for pivoting movement about a backrest pivot axis. A seat pan has a forward portion supported by the seat frame for relative longitudinal movement, for example, using a slider. The seat pan has a rearward portion that is pivotally supported along a rear seat pan axis by a lower extension of the backrest frame, such that the backrest frame reclines relative to the seat frame upon forward longitudinal movement of the rear seat pan pivot axis relative to the seat frame. A backrest recline angle adjuster on the seat frame, such as a pair of linear actuators respectively coupling the seat frame to each side of the backrest frame along an actuator pivot axis that is itself offset from the backrest pivot axis, maintains a selected position of the rear seat pan support axis relative to the seat frame to thereby achieve a desired backrest inclination. |
| US09809130B2 |
Vehicle speed control systems and methods
An electric motor control system for a vehicle includes a vehicle speed module that determines a vehicle speed. A closed loop (CL) module determines a CL torque based on a difference between a target vehicle speed and the vehicle speed. A motor torque module determines a motor torque based on the CL torque and a motor torque request determined based on a position of an accelerator pedal. A switching control module controls switching of an inverter based on the motor torque to control application of power to an electric motor of the vehicle. |
| US09809129B2 |
Four motor direct driving system
A driving system for electric vehicles. The driving system may have two or more electric motors, each with voltage inputs, which are connected to the axles and tires of the vehicle. A variable input control may provide a signal that indicates its current operation position to a vehicle control unit. The vehicle control unit takes the information from the variable input control and determines how much power to send to each of the electric motors' voltage inputs. |
| US09809126B2 |
Vehicle-mounted power source apparatus
In the present invention, when charging both a high-voltage battery and a low-voltage battery by means of electrical power obtained by means of solar generation, by means of prioritizing the charging of the low-voltage battery over the charging of the high-voltage battery, a decrease in charging efficiency of the battery overall is suppressed. The vehicle-mounted power source device charges batteries by means of electrical power obtained by means of solar generation. A solar panel converts sunlight into electrical power. A DC/DC boost converter boosts the power converted by the solar panel. A control unit causes switching in a manner so that the high-voltage battery is charged by the electrical power boosted by the DC/DC boost converter when charging the low-voltage battery by means of the power converted by the solar panel and the amount of accumulated electrical power accumulated at the low-voltage battery is at least a predetermined value. |
| US09809120B2 |
Discrete under voltage/over voltage monitoring circuit
Health status signals generated by components of a power supply system, including health status signals generated by a control processor, are logically combined together using discrete electronic components and which provide a single, highly-reliable enable/disable signal to a master switch. The master switch connects and disconnects the power supply to and from electrical loads. |
| US09809112B2 |
Horizontal shaft fuel tank cap with charcoal canister
The horizontal shaft fuel tank cap with charcoal canister includes a fuel tank inner cap and fuel tank outer cap. A hollow room with an upper opening is disposed in the center of the fuel tank inner cap. The fuel tank outer cap is disposed above the fuel tank inner cap. The ventilating pipe is disposed in the hollow room and divides the hollow room into filling room and containing room. The first air outlet leading the fuel vapor to the containing room is disposed on the bottom of the containing room. The second air outlets are disposed in the center of the ventilating pipe. The fuel-absorption substrate is disposed in the filling room. The residuary fuel is drained into the fuel tank under negative pressure of the fuel tank. The filtering performance of charcoal powder can be enhanced since it is exempted from long-time fuel soaking. |
| US09809111B1 |
Anti-siphon device
An anti-siphon device configured to be used within the fuel filler pipe of a heating oil fuel tank, the device having a rigid body member that fits within an intermediate section of the fuel filler pipe and a restriction element having apertures allowing fuel but not a siphon hose to pass through; and a method of installing the anti-siphon device in a fuel filler pipe. |
| US09809110B2 |
Saddle-riding type vehicle
A saddle-riding type vehicle includes a seat, a fuel tank including a vent and disposed below the seat, a canister connected to the vent, and an overflow prevention valve provided in a fuel vapor passage connecting the vent and the canister. The overflow prevention valve is positioned higher than the vent. |
| US09809109B2 |
Ballooning self-sealing bladders
A self-sealing liquid bladder having a wall including plurality of connected cells each cell having an elastic wall portion and a stiffened wall portion and at least one source of pressure associated with one or more of the plurality of cells. |
| US09809107B2 |
Power transmission device
A power transmission device comprises an engine arranged on a shaft and a first motor. A second motor is arranged on a different shaft from the shaft on which the engine is arranged. A first differential mechanism has a sun gear to which the first motor is connected, a carrier to which the engine is connected, and a ring gear to which the second motor and a drive wheel are connected. A second differential mechanism has a first rotational element to which the first motor is connected, a second rotational element, and a third rotational element to which the engine is connected, and is arranged such that the first motor is located between the first differential mechanism and the second differential mechanism. A case houses the second differential mechanism. A brake mechanism is configured to restrict rotation of the second rotational element and is arranged in the case. |
| US09809104B2 |
Transmission system of hybrid electric vehicle
A transmission system of a hybrid electric vehicle may include an input shaft connected to an engine, a planetary gear set including a first rotation element operated as an output element, a second rotation element connected to the input shaft and operated as an input element, and a third rotation element operated as another output element, a first motor operably connected to the first rotation element, and selectively connected to a transmission housing, a first motor/generator configured to generate electric energy by receiving torque through the first motor shaft, a second motor shaft being a hollow shaft, disposed at a radial exterior of the first motor shaft without rotational interference with the first motor shaft, and operably connected to the third rotation element so as to receive torque of the engine, and a second motor/generator disposed on the second motor shaft and outputting torque through the second motor shaft. |
| US09809097B1 |
Pillar seal retainers for motor vehicle seal structures
Disclosed are vehicle seal retainers, methods for making and methods for using vehicle seal retainers, and motor vehicles with pillar seal retainers. Disclosed, for example, is a seal retainer carrier for mounting a seal structure between the outer applique and body structure of a motor vehicle. The seal structure includes a flexible body with two seal lips. The outer applique has a tab and a flange. The seal retainer carrier includes a base attached to the vehicle's body structure. A first interface flange projects from the base and attaches to the outer applique's flange. A second interface flange projects from the base and includes a protruding rib attached to a second seal lip. This rib fits into a recessed groove of the seal structure such that the seal mounts between the outer applique and body structure with a hook of a first seal lip seated against the outer applique's tab. |
| US09809091B2 |
Adjustably positionable spacer for vehicle door assembly
A spacer is provided for mounting on a vehicle impact beam. The spacer includes a first surface having a first radius of curvature centered on a first axis, and a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a second radius of curvature centered on a second axis extending parallel to the first axis and spaced apart from the first axis. |
| US09809090B1 |
Silicone coating suited for automotive windshields and process for preparation
A silicone coating is provided for glass and other surfaces with improved glass clarity and maintenance requirements. In addition a process for preparing a silicone film with improved glass clarity and maintenance requirements. Further a method is provided for adhering an improved silicone coating to a glass (or other) surface. Also a silicone coating is provided for granite, cement, and lexan/plastic. |
| US09809089B2 |
Aroma-diffusing cartridge for vehicle
Disclosed is an aroma-diffusing cartridge for a vehicle wherein the structures of the cartridge and a carrier of an aroma are so optimized that the capacity of the carrier for carrying the aroma may become excellent together with stable and continuous performance of diffusing the aroma. An aroma-diffusing cartridge for a vehicle includes: a cartridge body having one side formed with a pair of air holes for receiving and discharging air, and an internal space for circulating the received air; and at least two carriers put in the cartridge body with different duration of keeping an aroma. Thus, the capacity of the carriers for carrying an aroma is excellent together with stable and continuous performance of diffusing the aroma in a limited space, so that the air in the vehicle may be kept agreeable for a long time. |
| US09809088B2 |
Controlling HVAC speed of condenser fans using pressure sensors
A controller for a heat, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit may comprise a compressor control signal output; a condenser fan control signal output; a pressure sensor input that receives information regarding an output pressure of the compressor; a temperature input that receives information regarding ambient temperature; a processor coupled to the compressor control signal output, the condenser fan control signal output, the first pressure sensor input, and the temperature input; and a computer-readable memory that stores instructions. The processor may cause the controller to: turn on the compressor via the compressor control signal output based on a request for air conditioning, select a condenser fan speed, from condenser fan control data stored in the computer readable memory, based on the ambient temperature and an output pressure of the compressor, and set a speed of the condenser fan to the selected condenser fan speed via the condenser fan control signal. |
| US09809087B2 |
Foreign object obstruction device
A foreign object obstruction device for preventing foreign objects from entering into the vent of a vehicle without completely obstructing the air passage of the vent is provided. The foreign object obstruction device extends between the a rear vehicle bumper and the vehicle body, and includes a rigid panel mounted to the vehicle body, generally beneath the vent so as to present a generally horizontal planar surface. The foreign object obstruction device may also include a stand-off structure extending from the rigid panel to the vehicle body so as to maintain the foreign obstruction device a predetermined distance from the vent, and a resilient pad disposed between the stand-off structure and the vehicle body so as to help absorb the force caused by objects being hurled into the device; and between the rigid panel and the bumper so as to form a seal. |
| US09809086B2 |
Method and system for controlling vehicle radiator flap
The present invention provides a system & method for controlling a radiator flap for a vehicle, which are capable of effectively operating of a cooling fan and a radiator flap simultaneously consequently by opening & closing the radiator flap by a combination of a cooling fan control signal related to control of the cooling fan and a vehicle CAN signal related to vehicle state information, such as a vehicle speed. The system includes: an engine controller that is configured to generate a cooling fan control signal. In addition, an integrated controller is configured to detect an engine coolant temperature based on the cooling fan control signal, and detect one or more of vehicle speed information, on/off information of an air conditioner switch, and air conditioner refrigerant pressure information based on a vehicle CAN signal to open and close the radiator flap. |
| US09809084B2 |
Housing particularly for a motor vehicle HVAC system
A housing is provided for a motor vehicle HVAC system, which is formed from interconnectable housing parts and has a groove, delimited by a first and a second groove leg, on a first housing part and a tongue on a second housing part and in which to connect the housing parts the tongue is disposed in the groove. In this regard, the first and second groove legs are formed in such a way that in the inserted state of the tongue in the groove at least one groove leg at its free end is spaced apart from a corresponding tongue-side bearing shoulder of the second housing part. |
| US09809072B2 |
Jack assembly
An improved jack assembly for use with a trailer tongue of a towed vehicle. The jack assembly including telescoping height adjustment of the assembly, a pivot assembly for pivoting between a vertical and horizontal stowed position, and a clip for maintaining a handle assembly in a stowed position when not in use. The jack assembly also includes the use of bushings for the telescoping tubes to enhance the sliding movement between the tubes and aid in maintaining the axial alignment of the tubes thereby extending the life of the jack assembly. The pivot assembly further includes an attachment bracket that may be rotated to accommodate at least two different sizes of trailer tongues. |
| US09809070B1 |
Drop hitch apparatus and method for using same
An improved drop hitch apparatus has at least one hitch plate for coupling to a portion of a hitch assembly of a trailer, a support assembly for supporting the hitch assemblies of a trailer and a towing vehicle, and a mounting assembly for mounting the apparatus to at least a portion of a hitch assembly of a towing vehicle. The drop hitch apparatus is useful as a height adjustment adapter to couple a trailer and a towing vehicle when the trailer has a hitch assembly lower than that of the towing vehicle's hitch assembly. The mounting assembly has a mounting shelf, a mounting bar, a stability member. The support assembly has an upstanding support plate and an upstanding shaft member. |
| US09809069B2 |
Drawbar pin ejector
A drawbar assembly for coupling a drawbar to a tongue of a towed implement includes a drawbar pin and a drawbar clevis having a bore configured to receive the drawbar pin. A locking plate is coupled to the drawbar clevis and movable between a pin-lock condition in which the locking plate is configured to obstruct at least a portion of the bore, and a pin-unlock condition. An ejector mechanism is configured to dislodge the drawbar pin from the bore. The ejector mechanism includes a handle utilized to operate the ejector mechanism and an ejector arm pivotably disposed in an ejector recess in the clevis. The ejector arm is movable from a home position in which the ejector arm does not interfere with the drawbar pin to an eject position in which the ejector arm forces the drawbar pin to be at least partially dislodged out of the bore. |
| US09809068B2 |
Air maintenance tire
The present invention is directed to a pneumatic tire comprising a sidewall component, the sidewall component including an air passageway extending at least partially about the circumference of the tire, the air passageway surrounded by and in fluid communication with a surface comprising a rubber composition, the rubber composition comprising: a diene based rubber; from 0.25 to 5 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of rubber (phr), of a self-lubrication agent capable of migrating from the rubber composition to the groove surface and disposing on the groove surface as a liquid; and from 1 to 15 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of rubber (phr), of a vulcanization modifier for use in the second rubber composition include α,ω-bis(N,N′-dihydrocarbylthiocarbamamoyldithio)alkanes, bismaleimides, and biscitraconimides. |
| US09809067B2 |
Air maintenance tire
A self-inflating tire assembly includes an air tube mounted within a tire sidewall groove. The air tube is in contacting engagement with opposite angled groove surfaces surrounding the air tube. A segment of the air tube is flattened from an expanded diameter to a flat diameter by bending and compression of the groove in a rolling tire footprint to force air evacuated from the flattened segment along a tube air passageway. The sidewall groove extends into an annular, axially extending, sidewall surface such as an axially oriented surface of a tire chafer protrusion located in non-contacting relationship with the rim. The opposite groove surfaces comprise a rubber composition, the rubber composition comprising: a diene based rubber; from 0.25 to 5 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of rubber (phr), of a self-lubrication agent capable of migrating from the rubber composition to the groove surface and disposing on the groove surface as a liquid; and from 1 to 15 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of rubber (phr), of a vulcanization modifier for use in the second rubber composition include α,ω-bis(N,N′-dihydrocarbylthiocarbamamoyldithio)alkanes, bismaleimides, and biscitraconimides. |
| US09809064B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire, comprising at least sidewall portions and rim guards each provided at the corresponding sidewall portion, wherein: in a cross section in the width direction of the tire assembled with a prescribed rim, an outer contour line, of the rim guard, situated on the outer side in the tire radial direction than the radially outermost peak of the rim guard has an arcuate configuration of which the center of curvature is located on the external side of the tire; radius of curvature R of the outer contour line is in the range of 5 mm≦R≦40 mm; and provided that H represents a distance in the tire radial direction measured from the radially innermost peak to the outermost position in the tire radial direction of a rim flange, 2 mm≦H≦40 mm. |
| US09809062B2 |
Tire
A tire includes a circumferential direction main groove on a tread surface, first and second circumferential supplemental grooves located on both sides of the circumferential direction main groove, and first and second central land portions formed between the circumferential direction main groove and the first and second circumferential direction supplemental grooves. The first and second central land portions have plural width direction sipes, respectively, and each of the width direction sipes extends to the circumferential main groove, the circumferential main groove has shallow grooved portions and deep grooved portions. The deep grooved portions are deeper than the shallow grooved portions, and the shallow grooved portions are shallower than the circumferential supplemental grooves. |
| US09809060B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire comprising a tread portion provided with a middle land portion 6 which is arranged between a central main groove 3 and a shoulder main groove 4. The middle land portion 6 is provided with an inner middle lateral groove 8 and an outer middle lateral groove 9. The inner middle lateral groove 8 comprises a first inclined portion 10 that extends axially outwardly from the central main groove 3 at an angle θ1 of from 10 to 40 degrees with respect to a circumferential direction of the tire, and a second inclined portion 12 that is inclined at an opposite direction to the first inclined portion 10 so as to extend axially inwardly, and a bent portion 11 connecting the first inclined portion 10 and the second inclined portion 12. The outer middle lateral groove 9 is communicated with the second inclined portion 12 of the axially inner middle lateral groove 8 without including an axially outermost groove edge 8e of the inner middle lateral groove 8, and is communicated with the shoulder main groove 4. The axially outer middle lateral groove 9 is inclined in the same direction of the first inclined portion 10 of the inner middle lateral groove 8 at an angle θ3 of from 30 to 70 degrees with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire. |
| US09809059B2 |
Pneumatic tire
The present invention provides a pneumatic tire capable of exhibiting improved on-snow cornering performance on a snowy road and improved on-ice cornering performance on an icy road surface. Specifically, the pneumatic tire comprises: a tread portion (1) including a ground contact surface (5) to be brought into contact with a road surface when the tire is rotated; a pair of sidewall portions (3) forming side surfaces of the tire and extending from the tread portion (1) toward the inner side in the tire radial direction, respectively; and buttress portions each forming an outer surface region (7) ranging from an end portion in the width direction of the ground contact surface (5) to the corresponding sidewall portion (3), wherein polygonal blocks (11) are formed in the outer surface region (7) by demarcation by grooves (9). |
| US09809054B2 |
Decorated rigid panel
A panel includes a thermoset material, and an image comprising sublimation ink. The sublimation ink is absorbed in the thermoset material. The rigid component may be a rigid structure formed by the thermoset material. The panel may be for a bath or shower enclosure. |
| US09809053B2 |
Fluid applicator
Systems and methods directed to the art of transferring a fluid, such as to a work surface, are provided. A fluid applicator capable of being received within a standard hobby knife handle and used to apply a desired amount of fluid to a work surface. The fluid applicator has a loop end for collecting, supporting, and depositing a fluid. |
| US09809050B1 |
Structurally compact display assembly with pressure fit
A media display assembly that includes a base assembly, including a base and a steel plate that forms a front surface of the base assembly and is removably affixed to the base, and wherein the base defines a set of resiliently deformable inwardly facing side surfaces. A cover, including a sheet having transparent display portion, is fit and held by tension between the resiliently deformable inwardly facing side surfaces. Finally, display media is interposed between the steel plate and the cover. |
| US09809048B2 |
Resilient rods for use with hanging file holders
Adjustable rods for use in a filing system are disclosed. An example rod includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end, a first hook extending from the first end, and a second hook extending from the second end. In addition, the example rod includes a first resilient member having a first length. The first hook is coupled to the elongated body via the first resilient member, and the first length of the first resilient member is automatically adjustable during movement of the rod. |
| US09809047B2 |
Ring lock guard for a ring binder
A ring metal (M) installed in a binder (B) stores punched sheets of paper and the like. The ring metal includes binder rings (R) mounted on movable frames (F) to which one end of each ring half is attached. The frames are movable relative to each other to open and close the rings. A ring guard (10) is removably installable over a portion of each ring half, when the binder ring is closed, to securely encompass rings halves (12, 14) forming the ring. The guard encloses the junction (J) where outer ends of the ring halves meet when the rings are closed and prevents a gap from opening between the ring halves if the binder is subjected to a force which would otherwise cause a gap to form between the ring halves and paper stored in the binder to spill out or be damaged. |
| US09809046B2 |
Binding device
A binding device (10) is provided which can be performed opening/closing of binding rings smoothly; comprising a plurality of openable/closable binding rings (12, 14), a holding member (16), an operating member (18), and an opening/closing member (40); the operating member comprises a pair of operating pieces (30, 32); base portions of one and the other of the binding rings are secured to the operating pieces respectively; the binding device has a button member (80) in the vicinity of one and/or the other end portion of the operating member; the button member has a first and a second arm portion (800, 820) for moving the one of the operating pieces; and the first and second arm portions are respectively configured to move the operating piece (30) to the first arm portion and to move the operating piece (32) to the opposite side to the second arm portion. |
| US09809042B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus which includes a carriage which can move in a reciprocating direction, in which the carriage is provided with an ejecting unit which ejects liquid, a circuit board which inputs a signal to the ejecting unit, and a fan which can blow air toward the circuit board, and includes a separator which separates a path through which mist which occurs along with ejecting of liquid from the ejecting unit reaches the fan. |
| US09809039B2 |
Plasma generating device
A plasma generating device includes a first plasma electrode and a counter electrode facing each other. The first plasma electrode extends in a lateral direction and includes two projections. Each of the two projections protrudes from the first plasma electrode in the direction of the counter electrode over a predetermined distance. The plasma generating device further includes a preload mechanism adapted for urging each of said two projections of the first plasma electrode against the counter electrode. The two projections cooperatively define a plasma gap between the first plasma electrode and the counter electrode. The counter electrode includes a support surface facing said plasma gap. The support surface is substantially flat along the plasma gap. |
| US09809037B2 |
Ink jet recording method and ink jet recording apparatus
Provided is an ink jet recording method including: applying a reaction liquid to a recording medium by sending the reaction liquid from a reaction liquid container to a nozzle orifice in an ink jet head through a reaction liquid passage and discharging the reaction liquid from the nozzle orifice, the reaction liquid passage connecting the reaction liquid container to the nozzle orifice; and applying an ink composition to the recording medium by discharging the ink composition from a nozzle orifice in the ink jet head, the ink composition at least containing a color material. The reaction liquid contains a (meth)acrylic resin and a polyvalent metal salt, the polyvalent metal salt serving as a coagulating agent that is reactive with a component of the ink composition. At least one of materials that constitute the reaction liquid container and the reaction liquid passage and that make contact with the reaction liquid contains a C6 or higher aliphatic acid. |
| US09809033B2 |
Liquid container and liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid container including: a liquid container part; a liquid injection part; an air introduction part; and a buffer part that is in communication with the liquid container part via a first communication path, and in communication with the air introduction part via a second communication path. the buffer part, when the liquid container is in a second orientation that is rotated from the first orientation by 180°, is configured to store the liquid having a volume that is equal to or larger than a volume of the liquid in the liquid container part such that a surface of the liquid is located below a second opening end of the first communication path in the buffer part and a third opening end of the second communication path in the buffer part. |
| US09809030B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus which includes an ejecting unit which ejects liquid, and a collecting unit which collects mist which occurs along with ejecting of the liquid from the ejecting unit from a collecting port, in which the collecting unit includes a backflow prevention unit in the collecting port. By adopting such a liquid ejecting apparatus, it is possible to suppress backflow of mist of the liquid from the collecting unit which collects mist of the liquid which occurs along with ejecting of liquid from the ejecting unit. |
| US09809028B2 |
Print head check method and image forming apparatus
A printer has a print head check unit that performs an ink ejection check to confirm whether or not ink is being ejected normally from nozzles, the printer sets a flag F to 1 so as to start an ink ejection check and starts a paper feed process. When the processes has been terminated, the printer starts printing. Accordingly, ink ejection check takes place concurrently with the paper feed process, the overall time required for the processes can be reduced. In this way, the overall time required for the processes of the ejection check of the print recording liquid and an image forming process can be reduced. Further, the ink ejection check may be performed in parallel with or partly overlapping with a process of receiving print data, a process of conversion into print data, a process of ejecting paper after printing, or a flashing process. |
| US09809027B2 |
Method of manufacturing structure and method of manufacturing liquid ejection head
A method of manufacturing a structure includes (1) positioning a first resin layer provided on a first supporting member on a substrate having a through hole, with the first resin layer facing toward the substrate, and releasing the first supporting member from the first resin layer; and (2) positioning a second resin layer provided on a second supporting member on the first resin layer from which the first supporting member has been released, with the second resin layer facing toward the first resin layer, and releasing the second supporting member from the second resin layer. A first resin layer portion that is above the through hole is removed before or simultaneously with the releasing of the first supporting member. |
| US09809026B2 |
Piezoelectric device, liquid ejection head, and method of manufacturing piezoelectric device
A piezoelectric device includes a first substrate having an empty chamber, a diaphragm defining a surface of the empty chamber, a piezoelectric element formed by stacking a first electrode layer, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode layer in sequence from the diaphragm side, the piezoelectric element provided on the side of the diaphragm opposite to the empty chamber, and a second substrate provided on the side of the first substrate opposite to the diaphragm. The thickness of at least a part of the first substrate in an opening peripheral area of the empty chamber is thicker than the thickness in an area outside the opening peripheral area. |
| US09809025B2 |
Printing pen and printing system
A printing system comprising a pen comprising a number of print bars; each print bar comprising a number of printheads in which the printheads are grouped to a number of printheads from each of the number or print bars, the grouped printheads forming a slice and in which the printheads of the slice are electrically coupled to a common power supply unit. A printing pen comprising a number of print bars in which each of the number of print bars comprises a number of printheads, in which the number of printheads are grouped together to form a slice, the slice comprising a printhead from each of the print bars, and in which the slice is powered by a common power supply unit. |
| US09809024B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus is provided. The image forming apparatus includes a recording head to discharge a liquid on a recording medium while scanning in a main scanning direction and a sub-scanning direction relative to the recording medium. The recording head includes a first nozzle array and a second nozzle array. The first nozzle array discharges the liquid in a first discharge amount per unit time per unit length in a longitudinal direction. The second nozzle array discharges the liquid in a second discharge amount per unit time per unit length in the longitudinal direction. The second nozzle array is shorter than the first nozzle array in the longitudinal direction and disposed not overlapped with the first nozzle array in the main scanning direction. The second discharge amount is larger than the first discharge amount. |
| US09809018B2 |
Composite structural element and method
A structural element that includes a central part formed of a fibrous material suspended in a thermoplastic matrix and at least one side part formed of a fibrous material suspended in a thermoplastic matrix and having at least one void therein. The central part and the at least one side part are bonded together while in a heated thermoplastic state to form a single, integral structure characterized by the absence of discontinuity across the bond plane of the structure. |
| US09809016B2 |
Bonding process
The invention relates to a process for bonding a silicone or silicone based material to a polyurethane and use of the bonded silicone-polyurethane in the manufacture of biomaterials, devices, articles or implants, in particular long term implantable medical devices in the fields of cardiology, orthopaedics, plastic surgery and gastroenterology. The process involves the steps of (a) flame treating a surface of the silicone or silicone based material and (b) bonding the polyurethane to the flame treated surface of the silicone or silicone based material. |
| US09809010B2 |
Multilayer interlayer having sound damping properties over a broad temperature range
A polymer interlayer having improved sound insulation is disclosed. The polymer interlayer comprises: at least one soft layer wherein the soft layer comprises a poly(vinyl butyral) resin composition having a dispersity in composition of at least 0.40 and a plasticizer; and a stiff layer comprising a poly(vinyl butyral) resin composition and a plasticizer; wherein the polymer interlayer has a damping loss factor (η) (as measured by Mechanical Impedance Measurement according to ISO 16940) of at least about 0.15 measured at two or more different temperatures selected from 10° C., 20° C. and 30° C. |
| US09809006B2 |
Polymer interlayers having improved sound insulation properties
A polymer interlayer comprising a layer comprising a poly(vinyl acetal) resin having a residual hydroxyl content and a residual acetate content, and a plasticizer, wherein the residual hydroxyl content, the residual acetate content and the plasticizer are selected such that the polymer interlayer has at least one glass transition temperature less than about 20° C. and a peak tan delta of greater than 1.33, and a glass panel having a configuration of 2.3-mm glass//interlayer//2.3-mm glass and at 20° C. has a transmission loss, TLw, of greater than 42 decibels as measured by weighted average sound transmission loss at 2000 to 8000 Hz, and a transmission loss, TLc, of greater than 38 decibels at the coincident frequency is disclosed. |
| US09809005B2 |
Anti-ballistic materials and system
Anti-ballistic systems and methods for making same are described. The anti-ballistic systems may be formed from various materials arranged in a structure, such as a wall structure. For example, an anti-ballistic system may be formed from a metal material, a polymer material, and a stone material. In some embodiments, the metal material may include aluminum (for example, an aluminum composite panel), the polymer material may include ethylene vinyl acetate, and the stone material may include granite. The anti-ballistic wall systems may be configured to be resistant to ballistics, blasts, and/or forced entry. |
| US09809001B2 |
Flexural digital material construction and transduction
Flexural digital materials are discrete parts that can be assembled into a lattice structure to produce an actuatable structure capable of coordinated reversible spatially-distributed deformation. The structure comprises a set of discrete flexural digital material units assembled according to a lattice geometry, with a majority of the discrete units being connected, or adapted to be connected, to at least two other units according to the geometry. In response to certain types of loading of the structure, a coordinated reversible spatially-distributed deformation of at least part of the structure occurs. The deformation of the structure is due to the shape or material composition of the discrete units, the configuration of connections between the units, and/or the configuration of the lattice geometry. Exemplary types of such actuatable structures include airplane wing sections and robotic leg structures. An automated process may be employed for constructing an actuatable structure from flexural digital materials. |
| US09808999B2 |
Method for adjusting sidewall unit and sidewall unit
A method for adjusting a sidewall unit (1) of a casting mold for concrete products, which sidewall unit comprises a support structure (2, 32, 42) and a mold surface plate (3, 3′, 33, 43) fixed to the support structure, and which sidewall unit is fixed on a casting bed (8), wherein the mold surface plate comprises at least two portions (3, 3′) extending along the length of the sidewall unit and connected to the support structure (2) and the vertical position of at least one of the portions (3), defined by orientation of the sidewall unit (1) fixed on a casting bed (8), is adjusted to form a gap (9) extending along the length of the sidewall unit between the portions. The invention also relates to such a sidewall unit. |
| US09808996B2 |
Stabilizer torque box assembly and method
In an embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a method of fabricating a thermoplastic torque box assembly. The method includes providing a plurality of braided thermoplastic tubular spar caps, connecting one or more connector elements to one or more of the braided thermoplastic tubular spar caps, and laying up an inner thermoplastic facesheet in a continuous manner around the one or more braided thermoplastic tubular spar caps. The method further includes attaching a plurality of skin panel stabilization elements to the inner thermoplastic facesheet to define four torque box side portions, laying up and attaching an outer thermoplastic facesheet in a continuous manner around the plurality of skin panel stabilization elements, and heating at an effective temperature and an effective pressure the thermoplastic torque box assembly. |
| US09808988B2 |
Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) stringer termination softening with stacked CFRP noodle
A stringer and corresponding method is provided having a runout design that softens the stringer. According to one aspect, the stringer includes a base flange, a web, and a noodle. The noodle includes a unidirectional fiber top portion and a stacked laminate bottom portion coupled to the top portion. The bottom portion includes a number of stacks, each stack including three plies having three corresponding fiber orientations within an acreage region of the stringer. In a transition region of the stringer, the stacked laminate bottom portion includes a number of stacks, each stack including the first and third plies of the acreage region. According to another aspect, the base flange is softened by dropping plies within the transition region. Yet another aspect includes trimming the web down to the noodle, while trimming through the noodle according to a trim radius to a height proximate the base flange. |
| US09808982B2 |
Tapered polymeric stent and method of fabricating same
A polymeric stent has an inner surface with an inner diameter that tapers continuously in size. A method for manufacturing a stent includes blow molding a polymeric tube within a mold having a tapered, cylindrical cavity such that the polymeric tube attains a corresponding tapered shape. The tapered tube is used as a substrate from which a laser cuts interconnecting stent struts. |
| US09808980B2 |
Coextrusion feedblock, coextrusion profiling insert assembly, and methods of operation
The invention provides a coextrusion feedblock having a flow adjuster, a viscosity compensation device, an actuator, a central extrusion conduit, and a coextrusion conduit. The invention also provides a coextrusion profiling insert assembly constructed to be mounted in a coextrusion feedblock. The insert assembly has a flow adjuster, a viscosity compensation device, and an actuator. The insert assembly when mounted in the feedblock has a coextrusion conduit extending between the flow adjuster and the viscosity compensation device. The actuator is adjustable to apply force to bend the viscosity compensation device and thereby adjust a gap height of the coextrusion conduit. Also provided is a method of operating a feedblock having a viscosity compensation device comprising a flex region, a central extrusion conduit, and a coextrusion conduit. Force is applied to bend the flex region of the viscosity compensation device and thereby adjust a gap height of the coextrusion conduit. |
| US09808978B2 |
Screw elements with reduced energy input during the build-up of pressure
The present invention relates to screw elements with novel, tightly intermeshing, self-cleaning, co-rotating screw profiles for multishaft screw machines with pairs of co-rotating and fully abrading screw shafts, to the use of these screw elements in multishaft screw machines and to a method of generating these screw elements. |
| US09808977B2 |
Completely disposable cooking apparatus for filling and decorating of foods
A cooking apparatus used for filling and decorating of foods, comprising in some embodiments a one-piece, funnel-shaped bag with a soft side wall, having an open first end at the “top” through which food material and coloring agents can be inserted into the bag and a closed second end at the “bottom” end of the funnel, with an integral, malleable, conical shaped, discharge orifice. The orifice may have serrations or ridges extending inwardly from the internal wall of the orifice, running longitudinally or parallel to the cone axis. The orifice may be initially closed or manufactured with a small opening. The orifice may be made of a material capable of being cut to yield an exit opening. The inwardly extending serrations that remain after a cut may insure that the material is “treated” as it is expelled from the bag through the orifice to yield a ribbon candy design. |
| US09808976B2 |
Injection member attachment structure for injection molding machine
When an injection member such as a screw injecting a molten material into a mold is attached to an injection molding machine, a buffer spacer is provided between the injection member and a power transmission member such as an injection shaft sleeve transmitting forward/backward moving power to the injection member. Then, the buffer spacer is fixed to the power transmission member by a bolt. |
| US09808973B2 |
Insert-moulded lead frame and method for the production thereof
An encapsulated lead frame has a core element with multiple elongated conductor tracks arranged next to one another. The lead frame also has first partial encapsulations formed by a first encapsulation of the core element in first sub-regions and second partial encapsulations formed by a second encapsulation of the core element in second sub-regions. The first and second partial encapsulations enclose the core element as an overall encapsulation. The first partial regions are spaced apart from one another and each of the first partial encapsulations respectively surrounds only one single conductor track. This configuration avoids gaps that may form at interfaces between a first and second partial encapsulation, may extend between two adjacent conductor tracks, and may allow conductive fluid to accumulate therein and form short-circuits between adjacent conductor tracks. The encapsulated frame is used in a transmission control device. A method for producing an encapsulated lead frame is disclosed. |
| US09808972B2 |
Motor bobbin and method for manufacturing same
In a method for manufacturing a motor bobbin around which a coil is wound, an insulating sheet and a core material are disposed within the cavity of an injection mold, and the motor bobbin is formed by the injection mold into which a resin is injected. The motor bobbin consists of the insulating sheet and a resin molded body. |
| US09808969B2 |
Fiber composite component and a process for the production thereof
The present invention relates to sheet-form fiber composite components which are obtainable by impregnating fibers with a reactive resin mixture comprising polyisocyanates, polyepoxides, polyols and optionally additives, and to a process for the production thereof. |
| US09808962B2 |
Tile cutter
A tile cutter having a base frame with a base plate and a guide which is disposed above the base plate and along which a slide carrying a cutting tool is displaceable in order to produce a score on the surface of a tile resting on the base plate, and having a breaker jaw device which is gear-coupled to the slide and is lowered onto the surface of the tile in the end phase of the displacement of the slide in order to break the tile along the score. The breaker jaw device and the slide interact with one another via a control flank arrangement in order to lower the breaker jaw device. |
| US09808960B1 |
Correlating energy to mix cement slurry under different mixing conditions
One example of correlating energy to mix well cement slurry under laboratory conditions to field conditions can be implemented as a method to determine energy to mix cement slurry. Electrical power supplied to an electric mixer in mixing a specified well cement slurry is measured. An energy to mix the specified well cement slurry is determined from the measuring. The determined energy to mix the specified well cement slurry and specifications of field equipment for use in mixing the specified well cement slurry at a well site are compared. The field equipment is a different configuration than the electric mixer. Based on the comparing, it is determined whether the well cement slurry needs redesigning according to capabilities of the field equipment. |
| US09808958B1 |
Post molding system
A post molding system includes a box. Concrete is poured into the box such that the concrete is formed in the shape of the box. A cage is provided and the cage is positioned in the box. The cage reinforces the concrete when the concrete dries in the box. A pair of molds is provided. Each of the molds is positioned on the box when the concrete is poured into the box. Thus, each of the molds forms an aperture extending through the concrete. |
| US09808956B2 |
Extension recycling method by the technology of bar embedment with glue for wood columns and apparatus thereof
The present invention relates to an extension recycling method by the technology of bar embedment with glue for wood columns and an apparatus thereof, the method comprising: classification of short wood, sawing of short wood, drying of short wood, assembling and sorting of short wood, connection in series of short wood under pressure, processing of short wood, and marking of stand columns. The apparatus is a short wood connection machine comprising a main body, rotating rollers, pressing cylinders, pressing plates and a planing frame. By using the present method, short wood can be connected into a strut, so that the abandoned short wood can be recycled to save natural resources. Due to the apparatus and the connecting member of the present invention, the process of connecting short wood into a strut can be completed conveniently, which have the advantages of simple structure, convenient processing and easy manufacturing. |
| US09808950B2 |
CNC machine assembly
An assembly for producing cabinet doors including a CNC machine provided with a porous worktable, means for positioning workpieces thereon, means for applying a vacuum to such porous worktable for adhering such workpieces thereto and means for machining such workpieces adhered to such worktable; and means for thermally deforming a thermally pliable foil to laminate such workpiece. |
| US09808949B2 |
Trimmer
An edge portion of a bound material is provided with first and second lines. The first and second lines are spaced at a small interval and arranged in parallel to each other. The first line is arranged outside of the second line of the bound material. A control unit controls first and second drive mechanisms in such a manner that the edge portion of the bound material is cut at the first line by a trim cutter, then the trim cutter or the table is moved at the small interval in a moving direction toward the second line, and then the edge portion of the bound material is cut at the second line by the trim cutter. |
| US09808948B2 |
Food chopper
A food chopper includes a housing and a chopping blade assembly disposed therein. The chopping blade assembly is held and guided in a guide of the housing so as to be movable to-and-fro along an operating direction counter to a force of a return spring in such a manner that the chopping blade assembly, during movement along the operating direction, is forcibly rotated and held in the upper rest position by the return spring and, in order to chop the food, is movable from the upper rest position downward against a counter-bearing face. A scraper element is rotationally driven by rotational movement of the chopping blade assembly and has a scraper edge having an elastic lip which is configured, during the rotational movement of the scraper element, to bear on an inner side of a side wall of the housing. |
| US09808943B2 |
Electric shaver and its head
Head (30) of electric shaver (1) includes blade unit (40), head case (31) supporting blade unit (40), and rotary member (80) rotatably supported by head case (31). Blade unit (40) includes outer blades (51 and 61) that contact with a target area and inner blades (52 and 62) provided corresponding to outer blades (51 and 61) and configured to make a reciprocating move relative to outer blades (51 and 61). Blade unit (40) and rotary member (80) are coupled so as to move together relative to head case (31) in a height direction of head case (31). This embodiment enables the head of the electric shaver to move smoothly on the skin. |
| US09808939B2 |
Asymmetrical cutting tool having dual eccentric thumb studs
An asymmetrical cutting tool has a partially cord-wrapped handle with a first handle panel, a second handle panel, and an intercheangeable overlay. The cutting tool further includes a folding blade, pivotably attached to the cord-wrapped/overlaid handle, and having a partially concave edge and a punch tip. The folding blade is operable to transition between a locked state and an unlocked state. Lock wear is compensated by dual eccentric thumb studs which act as a camshaft lobe to alter the position of the blade with respect to the lock while in the locked state. The partially cord-wrapped handle is configured to receive the folding blade when the blade transitions from the locked state into the unlocked state. |
| US09808936B2 |
Two-phase gripper to reorient and grasp
Two-phase gripper. The gripper reorients and grasps an object while being picked up. The gripper includes a parallel jaw gripper including a pair of opposed, two-phase fingers, each finger including a cavity covered by an elastic strip wherein the elastic strip includes a point contact. Closure of the jaws of the gripper on an object at a first relatively lower force results in contact with lower friction between the point contact on the elastic strip on the fingers and the object allowing the object to rotate under gravity as the gripper is raised. Thereafter, closure of the jaws of the gripper on the object at a second relatively higher force causes the elastic strip to receded into the cavity resulting in multi-point contact with higher friction between the fingers and the object to securely grasp the object. In a preferred embodiment, the cavity is a Y-shaped groove and the object is cylindrical or prismatic. |
| US09808932B2 |
Linking apparatus control device
A control device is provided which is operable to change the position of a distal end side link hub by driving each of arms, which are proximal end side links of a plurality of link mechanisms by means of an actuator. When in a series of operations, the position change of the distal end side link hub is mad by an angle greater than a predetermined angle, a relay position setting unit is provided for setting a relay point between a starting point and a terminating point of each of the arms so that the interference of the three axis arms may be relieved. A position change control unit performs a position control so as to pass simultaneously through the relay point so set. |
| US09808929B2 |
Tool holder
A tool holder comprises a cage assembly having a pair of axially spaced hollow members with axially aligned through openings sized for axial extension of tool handles of different sizes and shapes through both of the aligned openings. A cradle member is transversely movable in opposite directions between the hollow members toward and away from respective inwardly facing wall surfaces of the hollow members for releasably clamping tool handles extending through both aligned openings against the inwardly facing wall surfaces. |
| US09808928B2 |
Reinforcement member for handle of tool
A tool, such as a pneumatic tool, having a first and second housing portions coupled together. The first housing portion including an upper portion adapted to receive power and transmission components and a handle portion including a recess adapted to receive a trigger assembly. A reinforcement member is disposed in the recess with a first side facing in a first direction away from the recess and towards the second housing portion, and a protrusion extending from the first side in the first direction. The protrusion engages the second housing portion and strengthens the handle portion to allow the handle portion to withstand forces resulting from the tool being dropped on a hard surface. |
| US09808925B2 |
Impact tool
An impact tool includes a casing (13) supporting a tip tool (12), a piston (41) provided in the casing (13), an electric motor (11) provided in the casing (13), a motion converting mechanism (45) provided in the casing (13), and a vibration reducing mechanism (47) provided in the casing (13). The vibration reducing mechanism (47) has a supporting member, which is swingable with using a fixing position (J) as a supporting point and a weight (49) attached to a free end side of the supporting member. In a plane including a center line (C), the gravity center (H) of the weight (49) and the gravity center (G) of the casing (13) are disposed at mutually different locations, and the fixing position (J) is disposed on the side of the gravity center (G) relative to the center line (C). |
| US09808924B2 |
Nail gun
A nail gun of the present invention includes an adjusting portion which has elasticity. The elasticity of the adjusting portion is able to offset a thrust force of a nail pusher pushed by a magazine, so that a nail slot receives a nail only. The nail gun ensures not to shoot two sticks of nails simultaneously. The nail squeezes one side of the adjusting portion in a firing process so that the nail gun can provide sufficient space. Thereby when the nail is thicker, it can be shot by the nail gun. The present invention need not adjust by hand anymore for shooting different thickness of nails. The nail gun can not shoot two sticks of nails simultaneously. |
| US09808921B2 |
Press-fit installation tool with dynamic load assist and method of press-fitting
A tool has a biased piston, a plunger, and a base contained in a tool body. The plunger is positioned between the biased piston and the base and in contact with the base. A tool head is fixed to the base and extends outside of the tool body. The tool body is configured to be movable along a longitudinal axis relative to the base and plunger to move the plunger to load the piston when a load is applied to the tool body along a first load path. The tool body, the base, and the biased piston are configured to align the plunger with the longitudinal axis only when the load applied along the first load path is at least a first predetermined load, and thereby release stored energy of the piston as a dynamic load applied to the tool head along a second load path. |
| US09808920B2 |
Tool and method for removing a wheel hub assembly
A wheel hub removal tool is provided that allows a single technician to readily remove the hub using the vehicle steering. The tool is a generally U-shaped bracket that is seated on the ball-joint to support a pair of arms on opposite sides of the U-joint assembly. The arms carry corresponding blocks that are sized to seat between the drive axle housing and a component of the U-joint that is coupled to the wheel hub. The tool maintains a block on either side of the U-joint assembly so that pressure may be applied alternatively between the blocks to gradually dislodge the wheel hub from the axle. The tool is adjustable to accommodate different axle hub and bearing assembly configurations for different vehicles. |
| US09808919B2 |
Handheld screwing apparatus
A handheld screwing apparatus having a torque clutch provided to restrict a torque that is maximally able to be transmitted to an inserted tool. The handheld screwing apparatus includes at least one monitoring unit, which is set up to ascertain a characteristic rotational offset quantity that describes a rotational offset of the torque clutch. |
| US09808918B2 |
Tool apparatus system and method of use
A system, and a method of using a system, for controlled tool operation. The method includes providing a tool used in a force application such as a such torque application. The tool communicates with a controller which can communicate with the tool, and to a display in communication with the tool and the controller. The controller can be programmed with operational information about a tool operation. Information related to the operational information is displayed to a user during use. Service information including at least information about an amount of force applied during use is recorded and stored in the controller. Also disclosed is a computerized system for controlled tool operation which sends operational instructions to the tool before use and retrieves service information from the tool after use. |
| US09808913B2 |
Vise
A vise includes a groove-shaped vise body; an internally threaded first sliding member in the vise body; an internally threaded second sliding member in the vise body; a fixed jaw secured to the vise body; a first movable jaw on the first sliding member, a second movable jaw on the second sliding member, a rotatable shaft at an end of the vise body, an actuation assembly in the vise body and including a hollow first threaded shaft passing through and secured to the first sliding member, and secured to the fastening device, a hollow second threaded shaft passing through the second sliding member and secured to the second sliding member, a first movable rod in the first threaded shaft and secured to the rotatable shaft, a second movable rod in the second threaded shaft, and a pushing rod engaging the first movable rod, and a force transmitting assembly. |
| US09808907B2 |
Polishing clamp and polishing method using the same
A polishing clamp for clamping a work-piece to be polished and a polishing method using the same. The polishing clamp includes a fixing-block for fixing the work-piece to be polished, a recess formed on an end surface of the fixing-block and having the same shape as the work-piece to be polished, the work-piece able to be embedded in the recess, and when the work-piece is placed in the recess, a polished surface of the work-piece to be polished is flush with the end surface of the fixing-block forming the recess. Since a portion of the work-piece to be polished that does not need polish could be prevented from contacting the polishing apparatus by means of the fixing-block when being polished, the over-wearing may not occur at edges and corners of the work-piece, improving the quality of polishing. This can improve the quality of, e.g., a light guide plate. |
| US09808906B2 |
Polishing system with front side pressure control
A polishing apparatus includes a platen having a first surface to support a polishing pad and a second surface, a carrier head to hold a substrate against the polishing pad, a plurality of through-holes defined in the platen, and a pad pressure control assembly adjacent on a side of the platen opposite the carrier head. |
| US09808901B2 |
Selectively deployable rotatable edge guide to support a cutting tool during a sharpening operation
Apparatus for sharpening a cutting tool. In some embodiments, a tool sharpener includes an abrasive medium having an abrasive surface. A stationary tool support guide provides a guide surface that supports a side of the tool during presentation of a cutting edge of the tool against the abrasive surface. A rotatable edge guide has a roller member with a curvilinearly extending outer surface. The roller member is rotatable about an edge guide roller axis and is moveable between a deployed position and a retracted position. In the deployed position, the roller member is positioned to engage, via rolling contact, the cutting edge during the presentation of the cutting edge against the abrasive surface. In the retracted position, the roller member is positioned to provide a non-contacting clearing relation with the cutting edge during said presentation. |
| US09808900B2 |
System for identifying and duplicating master keys
A system for duplicating a master key includes a mechanism for receiving and positioning a master key. The master key defines a major key axis and an intermediate key axis along which a key blade variably extends, and a minor key axis along a key thickness. Optical path components direct a light beam along the minor key axis. The light beam impinges upon the key blade. A portion of the light beam traverses the key blade. A detector receives the portion of the light beam that traverses the key blade. An apparatus imparts relative motion along the major key axis between the light beam and the master key. The light beam scans along the major key axis of the master key. A processor receives a signal from the detector as the beam scans along the major key axis and generates information usable for defining the machining of a duplicate key. |
| US09808899B2 |
Method for mutually positioning tubes
A method for mutually positioning tubes. End faces, which includes a generally annular and generally circular end surface near an inner surface of the tube and a beveled edge surface connecting the end surface to an outer surface of the tube, are provided on first and second tubes, respectively. Plural clamping cylinders are engaged with the first and second tubes, respectively. Each cylinder is radially arranged onto and evenly distributed around respective tubes. The first and second tubes are pre-positioned relative to each other such that their respective end faces are opposite each other. At least one radial offset is assessed between the respective end surfaces of the first and second tubes. The clamping cylinders of the first and/or second tube are moved relative to each other in accordance with the assessed radial offset based on an optimization of areas in which their respective end surfaces coincide. |
| US09808897B2 |
Machine tool comprising a longitudinal rail and a transverse arm
A machine tool adapted to perform operations, for example, machining, on a surface of a part of large size is provided. The machine tool comprises a longitudinal rail and a transverse arm, orthogonal to the longitudinal rail, slidingly fastened at a first end to the longitudinal rail. A second end of the transverse arm is provided with a unit comprising a holding device enabling the unit to be held in position on the part during an operation. The transverse arm bearing a tool is thus precisely positioned on the part on which the operations are carried out. |
| US09808895B2 |
Method for producing a piston pump
A method is used to produce a piston pump having a housing and a piston subassembly. The piston subassembly is displaceably guided in the housing and has a first, rod-like piston element and a second, sleeve-like piston element. The second piston element is connected to the first piston element via a press fit. At least one transverse bore and a longitudinal bore are arranged in the second piston element. A stop edge for the housing is arranged on the second piston element. The piston subassembly also has an inlet valve, which includes a receiving element, in which an inlet valve spring and an inlet valve sealing element are arranged. The piston subassembly also has a corresponding inlet valve seat, which is arranged on the second piston element. While the second piston element is being machined, the press fit and the longitudinal bore are produced and/or finished in one step. |
| US09808890B2 |
Solder alloy
A solder alloy has an alloy composition containing Zn of 3 through 25 mass %, Ti of 0.002 through 0.25 mass %, Al of 0.002 through 0.25 mass % and balance of Sn, a solder joint made of the solder alloy, and a jointing method using the solder alloy. |
| US09808889B2 |
Gas turbine including sealing band and anti-rotation device
A turbine is provided comprising a plurality of stages, each stage comprising a rotatable disk and blades carried thereby, at least one pair of adjacent rotatable disks defining an annular gap therebetween and having respective opposing sealing band receiving slots aligned with the annular gap A sealing band is located in the opposing receiving slots to seal the annular gap Disk engagement structure is defined in the pair of adjacent rotatable disks. A clip member is coupled to the sealing band and engaged with the pair of adjacent rotatable disks through the disk engagement structure The clip member may have an aperture extending only partially through the clip member for alignment with a hole in the sealing band for engagement with a tool To improve weld geometry, the clip member may have angled surfaces and notched areas, and the sealing band may have chamfered edges. |
| US09808888B2 |
Laser system and method thereof
A laser system includes a laser configured to emit pulse bursts and a motion device in optical communication with the laser. The motion device moves a laser beam along a process path on a substrate and is configured to have a natural frequency that is greater than an operating frequency of the laser system. The laser system enables high and constant speed processing along tight radii in the process path, which is useful to form laser induced channels along the process path with equal spacing. |
| US09808881B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing welding and auxiliary power
A method and apparatus for providing welding-type power and auxiliary power includes an input circuit, a welding-type output power circuit, an auxiliary power circuit, and a controller. The input circuit receives input power and provides power to a common bus. The welding-type output power circuit receives power from the common bus and provides welding-type output power. The auxiliary power circuit receives power from the common bus and provides non-isolated auxiliary output power. The controller controls the auxiliary power circuit and the welding-type output power circuit. |
| US09808880B2 |
Remote sense lead magnitude and polarity controller
In a welding power supply, a feedback circuit senses electrical signals from the power output studs and from remote welding sense leads. The feedback control circuit scales the electrical signals and converts the signals to binary numbers having magnitude bits and a polarity bit respectively. The binary numbers, representing the signals, are simultaneously shifted into a logic processor for calculation of a feedback signal based on the digitized input. The feedback signal is calculated based on the polarity of connectivity of the remote welding sense leads as represented by the binary numbers. The feedback signal is then fed into the power supply output controller for automatically adjusting the power output of the arc welder. |
| US09808877B2 |
Alloy, overlay, and methods thereof
An alloy comprising about 0.5 weight percent to about 2 weight percent carbon, about 15 weight percent to about 30 weight percent chromium, about 4 weight percent to about 12 weight percent nickel, up to about 3 weight percent manganese, up to about 2.5 weight percent silicon, up to about 1 weight percent zirconium, up to about 3 weight percent molybdenum, up to about 3 weight percent tungsten, up to about 0.5 weight percent boron, up to about 0.5 weight percent impurities, and iron. |
| US09808875B2 |
Methods of fabricating low melting point solder reinforced sealant and structures formed thereby
Methods and associated structures of forming a package structure including forming a low melting point solder material on a solder resist opening location of an IHS keep out zone, forming a sealant in a non SRO keep out zone region; attaching the IHS to the sealant, and curing the sealant, wherein a solder joint is formed between the IHS and the low melting point solder material. |
| US09808874B2 |
Flux composition and techniques for use thereof
The present invention is directed to a soldering method for joining objects is also provided, comprising the steps of applying a flux composition to at least a portion of one or more of the objects, and joining the objects. |
| US09808873B2 |
Method and apparatus for removing underwater platforms
A method is provided for removing an abandoned marine platform from a seabed. The platform extends below the seabed mud line. In order to remove the platform, a frame is provided having a perimeter that surrounds an open center. The frame is lowered over the platform wherein the platform occupies the open center portion. A movable cutter cable is fitted to the frame. At least a part of the cutter cable is positioned below the mud line. The cutter is moved relative to the frame to cut the platform below the mud line. Such movement can be a back and forth movement wherein the cutter cable moves in a first direction, stops and then moves in a second direction that is generally opposite the first direction. A lifting device can employ two vessels and two frames, each frame bridging from one vessel to the other. Winches on the vessel can be used to provide movement to the cutter cable. These same winches can take up cable slack as cutting moves from one platform member (e.g. leg, jacket leg, piling, etc) to another. |
| US09808872B2 |
Portable electric cutter
A portable electric cutter includes a housing 2 in which a motor 1 is accommodated, a saw blade driven to rotate by the motor, a base 6 coupled to the housing 2 and having a bottom surface slidable on a surface of a material to be cut, a fan 7 driven to rotate by the motor, a driving circuit for switching power supplied to the motor, and a control circuit for controlling the driving circuit. A circuit board 60 on which the driving circuit, the control circuit and others are mounted is provided, motor cooling air vents are provided in the housing 2 on a side opposite to the saw blade, and circuit board cooling air vents are provided in the housing 2 on the side opposite to the saw blade. |
| US09808870B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for cutting a reverse spot-face in a workpiece
A reverse spot-facing tool for cutting a reverse spot-face in a workpiece using a reverse spot-facing cutter configured to engage a pilot shaft having a first end and a second end is disclosed. The workpiece comprises a through hole having a central axis. The reverse spot-facing tool comprises a stop configured to be located between the first end and the second end of the pilot shaft; a biasing assembly that generates a first thrust force and an equal and opposite second thrust force when the reverse spot-facing cutter is cutting the reverse spot face; and a thrust bearing configured to be positioned between the biasing assembly and the stop. When the reverse spot-facing cutter is cutting the reverse spot-face, the thrust bearing transmits the second thrust force from the biasing assembly to the stop, and the biasing assembly transmits the first thrust force to the workpiece. |
| US09808866B2 |
Self-adjusting chamfering tool
A self-adjusting tool for chamfering an end of a cylinder includes a plurality of legs. A distal segment of each of the legs extends in a forward direction of the tool and is placeable about the end of the cylinder. A central body has a rotatable shaft and a mechanism that is operable by rotation of the shaft about a shaft axis. The mechanism is operable to retract the legs inward in tandem toward the cylinder and to rotate the legs about the shaft axis when further retraction of the legs is blocked by contact with the cylinder. One or a plurality of chamfering blades are each attached to one of the legs. A cutting edge of each blade is oriented diagonally forward and inward. |
| US09808865B2 |
Method for manufacturing a metallic component
A method for manufacturing a metallic component is disclosed. The method includes forming a metallic component with a support structure using an additive manufacturing process. The support structure includes support walls arranged to form flow passages with a predetermined cross-sectional area. The method also includes placing the metallic component with the support structure into a chamber and sealing the chamber. The method further includes introducing a fuel mixture into the chamber after sealing the chamber. The method still further includes igniting the fuel mixture in the chamber to remove one or more of the support walls of the support structure from the metallic component. |
| US09808858B2 |
Method to improve riser feedability for semi-permanent mold casting of cylinder heads
A method of improving riser feedability in semi-permanent mold casting is disclosed. The method includes providing a first receptacle fluidly connected to a mold cavity and providing a second receptacle fluidly connected to a riser. Further, the method includes delivering molten metal to the first receptacle and conveying the molten metal into the mold cavity through a sprue. Delivery of molten metal to the first receptacle is terminated when the mold cavity reaches a predetermined fill level delivery of molten metal to the second receptacle is initiated. In certain embodiments, the first receptacle and the second receptacle are combined into a single receptacle and the sprue is connected to the mold cavity through a lower runner and is connected to the riser through an upper runner. |
| US09808857B2 |
Continuous fastener feeding apparatus and method
Methods and apparatuses for continuous fastener feeding for sequentially delivering single fasteners to a fastener installation device are disclosed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a first fastener reel for supporting a first fastener tape securing a plurality of fasteners and a second fastener reel for supporting a second fastener tape for securing a plurality of fasteners. A fastener tape joining device positioned downstream of the first and second fastener reels receives the respective first and the second fastener tapes and selectively engage the first and second fastener tapes when one of the fastener tapes becomes depleted of fasteners. |
| US09808856B2 |
Apparatus and methods for reducing corrosion of joining composite workpieces
The present disclosure relates a rivet body, including a rivet head and a rivet shank, composed of a different material than a mandrel used for insertion into a workpiece(s), the mandrel including a mandrel shaft and a mandrel cap. The rivet body receives the mandrel shaft, including the mandrel cap, through the rivet shank. The mandrel shaft is received by the installation tool, which rotates the rivet body, and the mandrel cap locally deforms workpieces(s) through friction riveting to install the rivet body. During the friction riveting, the fast-rotating rivet body is pushed into the workpiece(s) causing local deformation/melting where the mandrel cap contacts the workpiece(s). The mandrel cap creates a cavity which progresses through an upper surface and a lower surface of the workpiece(s). |
| US09808847B2 |
Method and device for compensating deviations during a deforming operation between two beams of a press
The invention relates to a method for compensating deviations in a deforming operation between two beams of a press, comprising of arranging one or more compensating element at a suitably chosen location in the press, detecting the deviations and moving the compensating element(s) relative to the beams by (electro) mechanical means during the deforming operation such that the detected deviations are compensated. The compensating elements can be moved here to an over-compensating position prior to the deforming operation and pressed out of their over-compensating position during the operation by the load on the beam, wherein each compensating element exerts an adjustable resistance force on surrounding parts of the press. It is conversely possible for the compensating elements each to be pressed stepwise to a position compensating the detected deviations during the deforming operation. It is possible to use (piezoelectric) actuators to exert the resistance force and/or to move the compensating elements. The invention further relates to a device with which this compensation method can be performed. |
| US09808846B2 |
Locking device for locking tools in a press brake
A locking device for locking tools in a press brake includes a first jaw (2) and a second jaw (3), movable towards and away from each other, and at least one safety hook (4) interposed there between provided with a retaining tooth (41) adapted to be inserted into a groove (52) defined in the shank (51) of a tool (5), wherein on an inner side (35) of the second jaw (3) facing the first jaw (2) there is provided at least one thrust surface (36) adapted to cooperate with, while resting slidingly against, at least one corresponding rest surface (43) on an outer side (42) of the safety hook, the thrust surface (36) and the rest surface (43) lying substantially parallel along a thrust plane (P) sloping in the opposite direction to the first jaw (2) by an angle (α) of between 30° and 60° with respect to a vertical plane. |
| US09808845B2 |
Arcuate saddles with adhesive strips
Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to arcuate saddles typically used to anchor and suspend insulated or non-insulated pipes. One or more adhesive strips are mounted to the interior, concave surface of the saddles. In preferred embodiments the adhesive strips extend transverse to or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the saddles. Certain embodiments of the present invention involve methods of manufacturing arcuate saddles with adhesive strips. |
| US09808840B2 |
Air filter ultrasonic cleaning systems and the methods of using the same
An ultrasonic wave washing unit may include a housing including a media inlet, a media outlet, and a bottom surface; a plurality of ultrasonic transducers disposed about and extending from the bottom surface; a support structure including a chair and sleeve, wherein the support structure is coaxially disposed within the housing within the plurality of ultrasonic transducers; wherein the chair is operable to hold an air filter and receive residue from the air filter when washed within the ultrasonic wave washing unit; and the sleeve is operable to engage with the air filter and secure the air filter within the chair. |
| US09808839B2 |
Pressure washer with hose reel and motor pump assembly
A pressure assisted washer or pressure washer with hose reel and motor pump assembly. The hose reel defines a bore in which a motor pump assembly is disposed. The hose reel comprises a cylinder having an aperture through which pressurized fluid can be accessed through a coupling in fluid communication with a pump. The pump has a rotating collar. |
| US09808836B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus
There is disclosed a substrate processing apparatus which is capable of detecting whether a substrate, such as a wafer, supported by a fluid is properly present in a predetermined processing position or not. The substrate processing apparatus includes at least one distance sensor configured to measure a distance between a scrubber and a hydrostatic support structure; and a processing controller configured to calculate a gap between the hydrostatic support structure and the surface of the substrate from a measured value of the distance and determine whether the gap falls within a predetermined range or not. |
| US09808835B2 |
Sorting device
At a conveyor forefront portion, velocity distribution of an airflow is provided. The velocity distribution is wind velocity distribution in a vertical direction of an airflow from a surface of an upper rectifying plate to a surface of a conveyor at the conveyor forefront portion, and has a maximum value in a range of less than 10 mm downward of the vertical direction from the rectifying plate surface. Moreover, a ratio obtained by dividing the maximum value by a wind velocity in the vicinity of the surface of the conveyor is 4 or more, and 12 or less. In a range other than the range of less than 10 mm, the airflow has a wind velocity equal to the wind velocity in the vicinity of the surface of the conveyor. |
| US09808830B2 |
Ultrasound transducer and ultrasound imaging system with a variable thickness dematching layer
An ultrasound transducer and an ultrasound imaging system including an acoustic layer with a plurality of transducer elements and a dematching layer coupled to the acoustic layer. The dematching layer has an acoustic impedance greater than the acoustic layer and the dematching layer has a thickness that varies in order to alter a bandwidth of the ultrasound probe. |
| US09808821B2 |
Stabilizing apparatus, methods, and systems for pump dispensers
Various aspects of the present teachings provide, among other things, stabilizing apparatus, methods, and systems for pump-type dispensers, such as standing, hand-operable, pump-type dispensers. For example, according to various embodiments, a stabilizer for pump-type dispensers can comprise a base that includes one or more sidewalls defining an internal orifice including an open top. A pump-type dispenser can be received in an upright fashion within the orifice of the base, such that a pump at the top of the dispenser extends upward, above the open top, so it is directly accessible for operation by a user. In various embodiments, a majority of the dispenser, but not the entire dispenser, can be received within the orifice of the base. In a variety of embodiments, the base is more resistant to tipping than the dispenser it is configured to hold, alone. In various embodiments, the dispenser comprises a substantially cylindrical, tube-type pump dispenser, which can be, according to some embodiments, disposable after the substance it contains has been depleted (i.e., single-use). |
| US09808817B2 |
Paint sprayer floating pump
A fluid sprayer includes a pump motor, a piston, a pump housing, and an outer housing. The piston is reciprocatable by the pump motor. The pump housing comprises a pump chamber housing disposed to receive the piston, and a plurality of alignment pins extending laterally away from the pump chamber housing. The outer housing surround and anchors the pump motor, and has a plurality of internal lateral bores disposed to slideably receive and retain the alignment pins, such that the pump housing is free to self-align with the piston. |
| US09808816B1 |
Spray gun system
A portable, self-contained, hand-held, spray gun system having spray gun with a handle, barrel, trigger, and an interchangeable cartridge containing a sprayable substance which may flow from the cartridge under pressure through a portion of the barrel past a selectively positionable needle valve and out an exit orifice of a nozzle when the trigger is squeezed allowing a user to spray the pressurized contents of the vessel over a selected surface and stop such spraying activity by releasing the trigger all without the need for a separate power source or motorized compressor. |
| US09808815B2 |
Atomizing-based cutting fluid delivery system and method
An atomizing cutting fluid system. The system includes a common chamber terminating in a shaped droplet nozzle and including a nozzle section immediately behind the shaped droplet nozzle. An atomizer creates spray directly within the common chamber behind the nozzle section. A cutting fluid supply line provides cutting fluid to the atomizer. A high velocity gas nozzle within the nozzle section and behind the droplet nozzle is configured to provide a high velocity gas to entrain the flow of droplets. The nozzle section and droplet nozzle are configured to produce a fully developed droplets-gas flow at a predetermined distance from the droplet nozzle. In a cutting system, the spray system provides a uniform film for a macro or micro cutting operation at sufficient flow rates. |
| US09808814B2 |
Electrostatic coating apparatus
A rotary atomizing head (4) is mounted on a front end side of an air motor (3). A shaping air ring (9) with air spout holes (10, 11) formed therein is provided on the rear side of the rotary atomizing head (4). The shaping air ring (9) is formed of a conductive material and is connected to ground. External electrode units (13) are provided in the periphery of the rotary atomizing head (4). A film cover (17) made of an insulating material is provided to cover an outer peripheral side of the air motor (3). A semi conductive member (21) is replaceably mounted to an adaptor (16) provided on an outer peripheral side of the shaping air ring (9). A rear end part (21B) of the semi conductive member (21) is made in contact with a front end part (19D) of the film cover (17). A front end part (21C) of the semi conductive member (21) is made in contact with the shaping air ring (9). |
| US09808809B2 |
Dust collector, electrode selection method for dust collector, and dust collection method
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a dust collector, an electrode selection method for a dust collector, and a dust collection method such that it is possible to select a suitable wire mesh to be used in a collecting electrode and thereby improve the collecting efficiency even at high flow velocities. A dust collector has a discharge electrode to which a voltage is applied, and a collecting electrode that is disposed facing the discharge electrode and has a planar member formed of a wire mesh, wherein the wire mesh of the planar member satisfies equations <1> and <2> below, and the gas face velocity (v) of the gas penetrating the wire mesh is v=0.1 m/s or higher. <1> IndexT=(the inter-wire distance÷2)÷the opening ratio÷the wire diameter×the gas face velocity <2> IndexT≦2. |
| US09808806B2 |
System and method for automated nucleic acid amplification
An embodiment of a device for automatically executing a process of generating an emulsion containing nucleic acids, amplifying the nucleic acids in the emulsion, breaking the emulsion, and separating and purifying said amplified nucleic acids, is described that comprises an emulsion generation unit for sealing beads to which nucleic acids are bound in a water-in-oil type emulsion; a nucleic acid amplification unit provided with a reaction vessel for amplifying said nucleic acids and a heating and cooling part for heating and cooling the reaction vessel; an emulsion breaking unit for breaking the emulsion after nucleic acid amplification; and a nucleic acid purification unit for recovering said amplified nucleic acids from said emulsion breaking unit. |
| US09808805B2 |
Liquid reservoir for microgravity system
A liquid reservoir for use in a microgravity environment includes a bladder for holding a liquid. The bladder includes flexible walls and an opening for extraction of the liquid from the bladder. An internal structure is shaped so as to form a channel to conduct the liquid from an end of the bladder that is distal to the opening. The internal structure is configured to prevent the walls of the bladder from blocking the channel when suction is applied to the opening. |
| US09808804B2 |
Cartridges, collectors, kits, and methods for enhanced detection and quantification of analytes in collected fluid samples
Devices, systems, and methods for detecting molecules of interest within a collected sample are described herein. In certain embodiments, self-contained sample analysis systems are disclosed, which include a reusable reader component, a disposable cartridge component, and a disposable sample collection component. The reader component may communicate with a remote computing device for the digital transmission of test protocols and test results. In various disclosed embodiments, the systems, components, and methods are configured to identify the presence, absence, and/or quantity of particular nucleic acids, proteins, or other analytes of interest, for example, in order to test for the presence of one or more pathogens or contaminants in a sample. |
| US09808802B2 |
Microfluidic device for serial fluidic operations
An integrated microfluidic device for carrying out a series of fluidic operations includes a housing including a plurality of n microfluidic conduits, wherein n is at least three, and a rotating valve having an internal channel with an entrance port and an exit port that are angularly separated. The rotating valve is positionable in a first position to connect two of the n fluidic conduits via the internal channel, and upon rotating the valve to a second position, two other of the n fluidic conduits are connected by the internal channel. The device further may include one or more fluidic chambers in fluid communication with respective fluidic conduits. Fluid contained in one fluidic chamber is transferrable by application of positive or negative gas pressure through associated fluidic conduits into another fluidic chamber via the internal channel. The device may be utilized to perform a variety of fluidic operations. |
| US09808796B2 |
Pipette and method for pipetting
A pipette has a first chamber and a second chamber that connects to the first chamber and extends with an outlet channel to a pipette tip. The chambers are separated from one another by a longitudinally displaceable piston having a piston non-return valve. The second chamber has a chamber non-return valve which is arranged upstream of the outlet channel. An associated method includes recirculating the liquid in the first chamber, filling the first chamber with the liquid via a direct feed line, filling the second chamber with the liquid from the first chamber by pulling back the piston in the filling position toward the first chamber with the piston non-return valve open and with the chamber non-return valve closed, and emptying the second chamber by advancing the piston in the emptying position towards the outlet channel, with the piston non-return valve closed and the chamber non-return valve open. |
| US09808795B2 |
Methods for reprocessing used catalysts
The following invention relates to methods for reprocessing SCR catalysts. In a first embodiment, the invention relates to a method for reprocessing SCR catalysts, wherein an oxygen-containing compound of titanium and tungsten or molybdenum is removed from the catalyst and is then reacted with a vanadium compound. In a second embodiment, the invention relates to a method for removing titanium oxide and vanadium, molybdenum, and tungsten compounds from SCR catalysts and to a method for reusing these compounds in such catalysts. |
| US09808794B2 |
Honeycomb ceramic substrates, honeycomb extrusion dies, and methods of making honeycomb ceramic substrates
A honeycomb ceramic substrate, a method of making thereof, and a honeycomb extrusion die configured to extrude a honeycomb ceramic substrate from a batch of ceramic or ceramic-forming material is provided. The substrate may include a lattice of intersecting walls defining a honeycomb network of flow channels extending between an inlet end and an outlet end of the honeycomb substrate. Each flow channel may be defined by a plurality of channel walls of the intersecting walls with at least two of the plurality of channel walls including concave inner surfaces facing a center of the corresponding flow channel from central portions of the concave inner surfaces to concave corner portions facing the center of the corresponding flow channel. |
| US09808789B2 |
Method for regenerating a used sorbent having a gas adsorbate adsorbed thereto
The invention relates to methods for regenerating a used sorbent having a gas adsorbate adsorbed thereto. In particular, the used sorbent comprises liquid marbles. The liquid in the liquid marbles is comprised of a material or mixture of materials that selectively removes unwanted gaseous component in the gas to be purified. |
| US09808784B2 |
Mesoporous cellular foam impregnated with iron-substituted heteropolyacid, preparation method therefor, and carbon dioxide separation method using same
Disclosed is a novel adsorbent having excellent adsorption durability and high adsorption efficiency while having improved durability, thereby improving a carbon dioxide (CO2) separation process. A mesoporous cellular foam impregnated with an iron (Fe)-substituted heteropolyacid includes a mesoporous cellular foam support and an Fe-substituted heteropolyacid, and the mesoporous cellular foam impregnated with an Fe-substituted heteropolyacid has superior CO2 adsorption performance and exhibits excellent reproduction performance even after CO2 adsorption and desorption are performed several times through temperature changes, thereby enabling efficient and economical CO2 separation. |
| US09808781B2 |
Conductive metal networks including metal nanowires and metal nanoparticles and methods of fabricating the same
Methods for the fabrication of transparent conductive metal nanowire networks are provided, as well as metal nanowire networks fabricated by such methods. A metal nanowire network can be immersed in a solution and illuminated for a duration of time. Selective nucleation and growth of metal nanoparticles can be induced at the junctions between metal nanowires. |
| US09808780B2 |
System, container, device, and method for mixing
A system for mixing content of a container comprises a container includes an interior mixing element, an exterior drive system and a mixing device comprising an exterior bearing for coupling the exterior drive system to the interior mixing element of the container. The exterior bearing provides a driven non-rotating, nutating motion that drives the interior mixing element of the container so that it performs a mixing motion inside the container. |
| US09808778B2 |
Mechanical system that continuously processes a combination of materials
The present application is directed towards systems and methods for continuously reacting a combination of materials by use of an acoustic agitator and a continuous process vessel. The system can react, fluidize, mix, coat, dry, combine or segregate materials. The continuous processing system can include an acoustic agitator capable of being removably coupled to a continuous process vessel. The continuous process vessel can include a first inlet for introducing at least one process ingredient, a plurality of plates configured for directing a flow of the at least one process ingredient through the continuous process vessel and capable of transferring acoustic energy generated by the acoustic agitator into the at least one process ingredient, an outlet for discharging a product of the at least one process ingredient, and a fastener for removable coupling the continuous process vessel to the acoustic agitator. |
| US09808777B2 |
Paint maker and mixing device
A mixing and paint-making device and method for making paint are described. Embodiments of the paint-making device include a first and second palette hingedly coupled to a base. The base includes a paint pot shaking component configured to agitate and/or translate a paint pot. The paint pot shaking component includes a series of gears and pistons that interact to produce a shaking motion for a paint pot coupled to the paint pot shaking component. In one embodiment, the paint pot shaking component includes a crank gear adjacent a combination gear that contacts a slide crankshaft. The slide crankshaft is coupled to a slide crank arm that is secured by slide bracket coupled to the base. A paint pot harness holds a paint pot during agitation and moves in an upward and downward motion corresponding to the motion of the slide crank arm. |
| US09808774B2 |
Stirring wand
A stirring wand is configured for selective engagement with a mixing device. The stirring wand comprises a substantially vertical portion having an upper end and a lower end, a first tapered surface that includes a first pitch angle proximate the upper end of the substantially vertical portion and a second pitch angle proximate the lower end of the substantially vertical portion, a substantially horizontal portion having a base and a distal tip, and a second tapered surface extending from the base to the distal tip. The second tapered surface includes a third pitch angle proximate the base and a fourth pitch angle proximate the tip. |
| US09808771B2 |
Membranes
A composite gas membrane comprising: a) a porous support; b) an activated gutter layer; c) a discriminating layer located on the gutter layer; and d) optionally a protective layer on the discriminating layer; wherein the said layers remain in place when a peeling force of 2.5 N/1.5 cm is applied to the outermost of said layers. |
| US09808769B2 |
Composite polyamide membrane post treated with nitrious acid
A method for making a composite polyamide membrane including a porous support and a thin film polyamide layer, wherein the method includes: (i) applying a polar solution comprising a polyfunctional amine monomer and a non-polar solution comprising a polyfunctional acyl halide monomer to a surface of a porous support and interfacially polymerizing the monomers to form a thin film polyamide layer; (ii) treating the thin film polyamide layer with a polyfunctional arene compound; and (iii) exposing the thin film polyamide layer to nitrous acid; wherein the polar and non-polar solutions further comprises at least one of the following: (A) at least one of the solutions further comprises a tri-hydrocarbyl phosphate compound represented by Formula (I): and (B) the non-polar solution further comprises an acid-containing monomer comprising a C2-C20 hydrocarbon moiety substituted with at least one carboxylic acid functional group or salt thereof and at least one amine-reactive functional group. |
| US09808767B2 |
Separation membrane element
A separation membrane element of the present invention includes: a water collection tube; and a plurality of separation membrane leaves stacked on each other and wound around the water collection tube, each of the separation membrane leaves includes one or more separation membranes each having a feed-side face and a permeate-side face and is configured so that the feed-side faces face each other, and a sheet having a plurality of projections fixed thereto is provided between the permeate-side faces of the separation membrane leaves stacked on each other. Regarding a height of the projections, a ratio of the maximum height to the minimum height is from 1.10 to 1.50, and a variation coefficient of the height is from 0.02 to 0.15, and an impregnation ratio of the projections into the sheet is from 10% to 100%. |
| US09808765B2 |
Polyurethane adhesives for reverse osmosis modules
An adhesive composition suitable for reverse osmosis modules, the adhesive composition includes (I) a polyurethane composition that includes (A) an isocyanate group-containing pre-polymer comprising a reaction product of (i) castor oil or a derivative thereof; and (ii) a polyisocyanate; and (iii) optionally a second polyol; and (B) an isocyanate-reactive polyol mixture comprising: (i) a polybutadiene polyol; and (ii) a urethane catalyst; and (iii) optionally the second polyol; and (II) a plasticizer wherein the adhesive composition is essentially free from diluent oils and solvents. |
| US09808760B2 |
Active filtration system for controlling cleanroom environments
This invention is in the field of systems and methods for controlling contamination in high purity environments. This invention relates generally to particulate filtering and treatment of molecular contamination and process gases in enclosures, such as cleanrooms, contamination controlled manufacturing environments, mini-environments, isolators, glove boxes and restricted air barrier systems (RABS). The invention is capable of chemically transforming molecular contamination and process gases into less reactive or inert reaction products while at the same time decreasing the level of biological and nonbiological particulates. |
| US09808759B2 |
Carbon capture system and method for capturing carbon dioxide
A carbon capture system includes a Carbonator for adsorbing carbon dioxide with a carbon dioxide lean sorbent generating a carbon dioxide rich sorbent, a first Calciner for thermally decomposing a carbon dioxide rich sorbent into a carbon dioxide lean sorbent and carbon dioxide, a supply of raw material to be calcined into the first Calciner containing a carbon dioxide rich sorbent, a connection between the first Calciner and the Carbonator, a second Calciner for thermally decomposing a carbon dioxide rich sorbent into a carbon dioxide lean sorbent and carbon dioxide, a connection between the Carbonator and the second Calciner, and a connection between the second Calciner and the Carbonator. |
| US09808758B2 |
Wet scrubber apparatus for ammonia capture
A method for removing ammonia from a gas stream divides the gas steam into a plurality of separate gas streams and sprays a dilute acid solution into the streams. The acid solution is aqueous sulfuric acid and ammonium sulfate is produced. A device is used to divide the gas stream, the device having a plurality of conduits in fluid communication with a plenum. Spray nozzles are located in each conduit to spray the acid solution into the gas streams. The device creates less than 10 Pa back pressure to the gas stream. |
| US09808756B2 |
Use of ferrous sulfide for the removal of selenium from gases
A liquid suspension comprised of ferrous sulfide particles and method of using the same for the removal of selenium from industrial gas. Said liquid suspension may be (1) directly injected, or (2) coated onto or into a substrate and then injected into an industrial gas containing selenium to remove said selenium from the industrial gas stream in a dry scrubber system. Said liquid suspension of ferrous sulfide particles may also be used to remove selenium contained in industrial gases in a wet scrubber system. |
| US09808750B2 |
Filter element of a filter and method for manufacturing filter element
A filter element (10) of a filter for fluid, particularly fuel, oil, water, urea solution or air, particularly of a combustion engine, particularly of an automobile, and a method for manufacturing same are described. The filter element (10) comprises a filter medium (14) structured as a filter medium hollow body (12) and closed circumferentially at least with respect to an element axis (16). The filter medium (14) is enclosed at least partially circumferentially and at least partially axially by an electrical heating jacket (26). The filter medium (14) has, on at least one front side, an end member (32) that is connected tightly at least to the filter medium (14). After insertion of the filter medium hollow body (12) into the heating jacket (26), the front side of the filter medium hollow body (12) is provided with an end member (32). |
| US09808746B2 |
Filter device
A filter device has a filter element (37) in a filter housing having a connection unit (29) forming a fluid connection to the filter element (37). The connection unit (29) feeds fluid to be purified to the dirty side (41) of the filter element (37) and is a component of the element receiver mounting the filter element (37) in the functioning position. The connection unit (29) is a component of the filter housing. The valve arrangement (61; 67, 69) is movable such that by removing the filter element (37) from the filter housing, the valve arrangement (61; 67, 69) closes and by insertion of the filter element (37) into the filter housing, the valve arrangement (61; 67, 69) opens. |
| US09808742B2 |
Filter arrangement
A filter arrangement for the filtration of oil or an ATF fluid, in particular a transmission oil filter, has at least a first and a second filtration layer which are arranged spaced apart by at least one spacer in a filter housing to form at least one intermediate chamber. At least one magnet or a magnet arrangement for keeping iron particles out of the oil flow are provided between the first and the second filtration layers. |
| US09808738B2 |
Compact wastewater concentrator using waste heat
A compact and portable liquid concentrator includes a gas inlet, a gas exit and a flow corridor connecting the gas inlet and the gas exit, wherein the flow corridor includes a narrowed portion that accelerates the gas through the flow corridor. A liquid inlet injects liquid into the gas stream at a point prior to the narrowed portion so that the gas-liquid mixture is thoroughly mixed within the flow corridor, causing a portion of the liquid to be evaporated. A demister or fluid scrubber downstream of the narrowed portion removes entrained liquid droplets from the gas stream and re-circulates the removed liquid to the liquid inlet through a re-circulating circuit. Fresh liquid to be concentrated is also introduced into the re-circulating circuit at a rate sufficient to offset the amount of liquid evaporated in the flow corridor. |
| US09808735B2 |
Lawn ornament having rotatable blades with solar-activated light-emitting devices
A decorative lawn ornament including a rotatable carrier having a plurality of blades. At least one light-emitting device is arranged on each of the plurality of blades to emit light from the blades. A solar panel is provided to receive and collect sunlight, and a photoswitch is automatically operable between an activated state during instances of insufficient sunlight to thereby activate the light-emitting device, and a deactivated state during instances of sunlight to thereby deactivate the light-emitting device. The decorative lawn ornament is operable such that when a flow of air strikes it, the blades rotate and a decorative member rotates to control an orientation of the blades and the light emitted by the light-emitting devices. |
| US09808733B2 |
Assembly of construction elements and method of connecting construction elements
Assembly of two construction elements (1) which each comprise a number of side faces and are provided with a connecting means (2) for connecting the construction elements (1) to one another. The construction elements each comprise a side face with a recess (3), the recess (3) having been produced by cutting away a part (4) from the construction element (1). The slidable parts (4) are slidable in the recesses (3) and form the connections (2). A method of connecting such construction elements (1) to one another is also provided. |
| US09808730B2 |
Multi-function electronic device-enabled transmit controller
In an embodiment, a transmit controller capable of automatic configuration is provided. In another embodiment, an auxiliary user interface device for automatically configuring a transmit controller is provided. In another embodiment, an auxiliary user interface device for transmitting operational parameter settings is provided. In another embodiment, an auxiliary user interface device for receiving operational parameter settings is provided. In another embodiment, an auxiliary user interface device for updating an application program of a receiving device is provided. |
| US09808727B2 |
Purging water in a waterpark reservoir by inducing a siphon
Disclosed herein is a method for purging water in a waterpark reservoir by inducing a siphon and several examples of an apparatus to achieve this result. The apparatus disclosed herein provides an emptying mechanism which may have no moving parts or valves between the inlet and the outlet and yet delivers a short term large volume dump or purge of water to patrons in an impact area of a patron region of a waterpark. |
| US09808725B2 |
Multi-device gaming interface
An electronic device may be configured to present a user interface via which a user can select from a plurality of commands associated with a particular video game. In response to a selection of one of the plurality of commands, the electronic device may transmit the selected one of the plurality of commands to a user interface device. The selected command may cause said user interface device to transmit a corresponding one or more simulated user inputs to a game console. The selection of the command may occur automatically in response to detection, by audio processing circuitry, of an occurrence of the particular audio clip in an audio signal output by the game console. |
| US09808722B2 |
Determining whether object is genuine or fake in Metaverse
A server computer is connected to a plurality of client computers through a network, and controls objects in a Metaverse accessed by the client computers. The server computer includes a storage unit for storing an object ID specifying an object accessible in the Metaverse by the plurality of client computers and authenticity information associated with the object ID. The authenticity information indicates that the object is genuine. The server computer also includes a communication unit for communicating with each of the client computers. The server computer also includes an enquiry unit for causing the communication unit to transmit the authenticity information corresponding to the object ID to at least one of the plurality of client computers upon receipt of an enquiry request to enquire about the object ID of the object from one of the plurality of client computers. |
| US09808716B2 |
Display grid for video game input on touchscreen display
A method of providing input to a program, such as a video game, that expects input from a mouse and keyboard is disclosed. A plurality of large virtual cells are created on a display, each cell corresponding either to a smaller graphical button displayed by the program or to one or more keystrokes that the program will accept as input. A controller capable of moving the cursor is used to move the cursor onto a virtual cell, and a controller button pressed. An instruction is sent to the program, in the format the program expects, to perform the command corresponding to the user's action. The large virtual cells allow a user to select a command rapidly using various controllers without having to locate the cursor on the small graphical buttons of the program, and are thus well suited to large displays located at some distance from a user. |
| US09808709B2 |
System and methods for biometric detection of play states, intrinsic motivators, play types/patterns and play personalities
Techniques are described herein for automatically determining play states, intrinsic motivators, play types/patterns and a play personality of a user/subject. Play personalities develop from activation of play states, and vary individually and are expressed in a variety of play type/patterns. These states, personalities, patterns and associated intrinsic motivations may be automatically determined by computing devices based on that user/subject's information, behaviors and biometric data. The play personality may be additionally used as the means for identifying and integrating intrinsic motivators into player-centric design which can alter and personalize user/subject/player engagement, experience and outcomes. |
| US09808707B2 |
Magnetic dominos game
A magnetic dominos game set with pieces that magnetically connect end to end, side to side and side to end, and methods for manufacturing and playing magnetic dominos. |
| US09808702B2 |
Athletic protection device
An athletic protector, such as an athletic cup, with regions formed of the same compositional material, which is more rigid in one such region than in another such region. |
| US09808699B2 |
Adjustable swivel mount device for heavy punching bag
A swivel joint system for hanging a heavy punching bag from an overhead support has a swivel joint defining at least first and second perpendicular pivot axes and a hanging shaft having a lower end pivotally connected to the universal joint for rotation about the first pivot axis and an upper end configured for rotatable attachment to an overhead support for free rotation about a third pivot axis. A hanging tube is pivotally connected to the universal joint for rotation about the second pivot axis, and releasably secured to a mounting plate. A plurality of attachment members are rigidly attachable at spaced locations around the mounting plate to surround the hanging tube and configured for attachment to straps at the upper end of a heavy punching bag. |
| US09808698B2 |
Kayaking trainer
A paddling action simulating exerciser in the form of a kayaking trainer that includes pole, a cord that extends along the pole and linearly displaceably passes therethrough, a hollow spacer that extends between a seating facility and an anchoring layout including a cord guiding layout via which the free ends of the cord are secured to a spring. A multi-directionally adjustable footplate facility that includes an upright foot abutment plate fitted with a heel rest and a toe strap is fitted along the spacer. The spacer, seating facility, leg, footplate facility and guiding layout in constituting a trainer core assembly are laterally rockable by way of rocking formations fitting along slots. |
| US09808697B2 |
Bounce back item net
This is the embodiment of the net apparatus used in sports and in the non-sports arenas. This net's frame supports an inner net framed matrix that connects and pivots a rear frame for an adjustable triangular-shaped lean to control the trajectory of the ball or object. The net is designed to rebound balls or objects with high energy even at side angles to return the ball to the sender. The net is also designed to minimize stress to both net and frame when a ball or object contacts the net. |
| US09808687B1 |
Golf tee assembly
A golf tee assembly includes a support that has a plurality of arms. The support may be positioned on a support surface to define a vertically oriented arm and a plurality of supporting arms. A plurality of tees is provided and each of the tees is removably coupled to the support. The tee corresponding to the vertically oriented arm may support a golf ball thereby facilitating the golf ball to be struck. A plurality of extensions is provided. Each of the extensions is removably positioned between the arms and the tees. Thus, the tees are spaced a selected distance from the support. |
| US09808686B2 |
Golf bag accessory bag
An accessory bag for a main bag is provided and may include a main body extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The main body may be movable between a collapsed state having the first end disposed proximate to the second end and an expanded state having the first end separated from the second end. The accessory bag may further include an attachment device associated with one of the first end and the second end that selectively attaches the main body to the main bag. |
| US09808683B2 |
Iron-type golf club head or other ball striking device
A ball striking device, such as an iron-type golf club head, includes a face having a ball striking surface and a rear surface, and a body connected to the face. The body has a sole member and a rear cavity defined at least partially by the sole member and the rear surface of the face. The body has an elongated, recessed channel extending within the cavity along a juncture line between the rear surface of the face and the sole member. Additionally, the head is formed in part by a face member having a first leg forming at least a major portion of the face and a second leg extending rearwardly from a bottom end of the first leg and forming at least a portion of the sole member. The head may further be formed by a body member connected to the face member. |
| US09808681B2 |
Golf club head
A hollow golf club head comprises a face part, a sole part, a side part, a crown part, and a hosel part. At least one of the face part and the crown part has portions of two different rigidities that are first and second rigid portions, the first rigid portion has a first rigidity, the second rigid portion is made of the same material as the first rigid portion, and the second rigid portion has the same thickness as the first rigid portion but has a lower rigidity than the first rigidity of the first rigid portion. |
| US09808680B1 |
Putter with replaceable hosel
A putter head comprising a removable and replaceable hosel is disclosed herein. In particular, the putter comprises a first body portion with a plurality of protrusions, a second body portion with a plurality of cavities sized to receive the protrusions, a hosel with an engagement portion that is trapped within one of the cavities by a protrusion, and a mechanical fastener to removably fix each of these pieces together. The fastener preferably extends through a bore on the heel side of the putter head and into a threaded bore within one of the protrusions. In an alternative embodiment, the putter head has a single body portion, which receives the engagement portion of a hosel in a heel side cavity, and which is affixed to the hosel via a fastener that extends through a front surface of the body portion. |
| US09808677B2 |
Ball game apparatus
A ball game apparatus comprises a control device (14, 24, 52, 60) which defines a predetermined range of allowable movements of a ball (10, 20, 40, 70) over space and time, sensing means (12, 22, 42) for detecting the actual movements of a ball, comparison means for comparing an actual movement to the predetermined range of allowable movements, and indicating means (16, 34, 54, 62) for indicating the output of the said comparing. The sensing means (12, 22, 42) comprises a multi-axis accelerometer contained in the ball and having accelerometer, gyroscope and/or magnetometer functions. The ball may be activated by an internal magnetically-operated switch (17, 22, 47). The control device and indicating means can be incorporated in the ball itself or in a separate portable computing device. |
| US09808676B2 |
Golf ball layers produced using crosslinked highly-neutralized polymer materials
The invention relates to golf balls having at least one layer formed from a highly-neutralized polymer material that has been crosslinked. In particular, the compositions of the invention include a highly-neutralized polymer, at least one crosslinking initiator, and at least one coagent. The invention also relates to methods of making the compositions and golf ball constructions that incorporate the compositions of the invention in at least a portion thereof. |
| US09808668B2 |
Apparatus for automated walking training
An apparatus for automated walking training includes a frame or treadmill having a driven treadmill belt and a pelvis attachment to support a position and weight of a user. The pelvis attachment includes a displacement unit for allowing a movement of the user's pelvis held by attachment elements transverse to and/or rotating about a perpendicular axis to the walking direction of the treadmill to provide a more natural and physiological gait during training. A weight suspension unit having a cable guided over a guide roller positioned above and attached to the pelvis attachment may include a displacement unit adapted to move the guide roller perpendicular to the diverted section of the cable to influence the transverse position of an upper body of the user as well as to prevent a pendulum effect of the trunk of his body. |
| US09808664B2 |
Self-standing weighted pole system
A self-standing weighted pole system for providing convenient stabilization and additional weight for an exerciser. The self-standing weighted pole system generally includes an elongated pole having a lower end and an upper end, and a base attached to the lower end of the pole. The base includes an outer end that is broader than the pole to support the pole in a substantially vertically orientated self-standing manner. |
| US09808663B2 |
Multifunctional kinetic mechanism
A multifunctional kinetic mechanism includes a base including a slant tube, a counterweight unit including a joint shaft rotatably connected to the slant tube of the base, a barbell shaft having a first end piece connected to the joint shaft and a second end piece opposite to the first end piece and a counterweight attached to the second end piece of the barbell shaft, and an operating unit including a main frame, a sleeve located at a front side of the main frame and sleeved onto the second end piece of the barbell shaft, two grips respectively pivotally mounted at an opposing rear side of the main frame and two shoulder cushion pads mounted at a bottom side of the main frame between the sleeve and the two grips. Thus, a user can operate the operating unit to move the barbell shaft to train different muscle groups. |
| US09808661B2 |
Device for extinguishing a fire
Extinguishing a fire by pressurizing a tank containing an extinguishing liquid. According to the invention, the tank containing the liquid is provided with an expulsion outlet at a front end, a gas generator (17) is installed at a rear end, and a diaphragm forming an inflatable bag (19) is installed inside the tank, being folded prior to triggering in a confinement space at the front of the gas generator, the outlet from the generator being associated with a deflector (47) including a rearwardly-directed ejection passage (49). |
| US09808657B2 |
Directional valve and breathing mask with a directional valve
A directional valve includes a fixing lug (13), which is arranged eccentrically to a valve membrane (16) and is arranged at a valve housing (15). The dimensions of the fixing lug (13) are selected for fixing the valve membrane (16) relative to the sealing surface (2) of valve seat (1). The size of the eccentric offset (x) is in a range between 8% and 15% of the axis length (D) of the greatest longitudinal extension of valve membrane (16). |
| US09808656B2 |
System and method of oxygen deficiency warning in a powered air purifying respirator
A powered air purifying respirator (PAPR). The PAPR comprises an electric motor mechanically coupled to a blower, an oxygen sensor, an alarm device, and a controller coupled to the oxygen sensor and to the electric motor, wherein the controller controls the electric motor, wherein the controller determines if the oxygen concentration is deficient, and wherein the controller commands the alarm device to present an indication when the oxygen concentration is deficient. |
| US09808655B2 |
Method for determining partial pressure of a gaseous constituent and regulator of breathing mask for aircraft occupant
A method for determining a characteristic such as partial pressure or percentage of a gaseous constituent in a first gas mixture flow in a flow chamber in which there is alternating flow in opposite directions between the first gas mixture flow and a second gas mixture flow. The steps may include a) introducing the first gas mixture flow into a sensing chamber when the first gas mixture flow flows in the flow chamber, b) preventing introduction of gas from the flow chamber into the sensing chamber at least when the second gas mixture flow flows in the flow chamber, c) sensing the characteristic of the first gas mixture flow in the sensing chamber. |
| US09808653B2 |
Treatment of subarachnoid hematoma using sonothrombolysis and associated devices, systems and methods
Methods for treating a human patient having a subarachnoid hematoma, such as to prevent cerebral vasospasm or to reduce the severity of cerebral vasospasm in the patient, and associated devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein. In a particular embodiment, a thrombolytic agent is introduced extravascularly into a subarachnoid region including the hematoma. A headset configured for hands-free delivery of transcranial ultrasound energy is connected to the patient and used to deliver ultrasound energy to the subarachnoid region to enhance the thrombolytic effect of the thrombolytic agent. The type and/or dosage of the thrombolytic agent can be selected based on the enhanced thrombolytic effect. For example, the enhanced thrombolytic effect can allow the therapeutically effective use of less aggressive thrombolytic agents and/or lower dosages of thrombolytic agents. In some cases, this can reduce the clinical probability of additional cerebral hemorrhage. |
| US09808652B2 |
Collimator for radiotherapy apparatus
A collimator for a radiotherapy apparatus comprising a block of radiation-attenuating material having a front face forming the leading edge of the block and at least one main rear face defining the trailing edge of the block, in which the least one main rear face has a material disposed thereon and is non-parallel to the front face. The collimator may form part of a radiotherapy apparatus, and methods of operation of such apparatus are described. |
| US09808649B2 |
Immobilization system to support an in vivo medical device
The problem of securing the position of an internally placed medical device that extends out of the body during targeted high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy is solved by a uniquely configured immobilization system that can be utilized to stabilize medical devices placed, for example, within the uterus or cervix. During the process of transporting a patient from the location where the HDR applicator is emplaced, for example, where the tandem and ring is placed within the cervix of a patient, to the location where the treatment is actually applied to the tissue, the medical device can move out of place and in so doing cause discomfort, pain, or an ineffective treatment for the patient. The embodiments of this immobilization system can include a strap apparatus, a straddling girdle, and bracket that can be attached to a patient. This immobilization system ensures the position of an internally placed medical device during targeted HDR brachytherapy. |
| US09808648B2 |
Device, system and method for immobilization of a human's body part
A system for immobilization of a patient body part for radiotherapy applications includes a device having at least one flanged support member which is mounted to a fixation surface. The device can receive and retain at least two sheets. A first sheet covers the anatomical contours of a first area of a body part. A second sheet covers the anatomical contours of a second area of the body part which is not covered by the first sheet. The system supports the immobilized body part free from the fixation surface by the two sheets and the device. |
| US09808646B2 |
Device for personal use in phototherapy
There is provided an applicator cartridge for delivery of a photoactivatable composition to a treatment site, having an applicator head and a reservoir adapted to receive the composition, which may be used with a photodynamic therapy device comprising an illuminating member. Methods of using the applicator cartridge and the device are also provided. |
| US09808645B2 |
Laser therapy for at least one of grade III and grade IV capsular contracture
A method for treating at least one of Grade III capsular contracture and Grade IV capsular contracture in a mammalian subject includes positioning a laser device proximate to the subject. The method also includes applying low level near infrared radiation to an area of the subject proximate to tissue in the subject experiencing at least one of Grade III capsular contracture and Grade IV capsular contracture for treating the capsular contracture. |
| US09808640B2 |
Method and apparatus for discriminating tachycardia events in a medical device using two sensing vectors
A method and medical device for detecting a cardiac event that includes sensing cardiac signals from a plurality of electrodes forming a first sensing vector sensing a first interval of the cardiac signal during a predetermined time period and a second sensing vector simultaneously sensing a second interval of the cardiac signal during the predetermined time period, identifying each of the first interval and the second interval as being one of shockable and not shockable in response to first processing of the first interval and the second interval and in response to second processing of one or both of the first interval and the second interval, the second processing being different from the first processing, and determining whether to deliver therapy for the cardiac event in response to identifying each of the first interval and the second interval as being one of shockable and not shockable in response to both the first processing and the second processing of the first interval and the second interval. |
| US09808636B2 |
Electrocardiogram identification
A defibrillating system includes a processor coupled to a memory. The processor and the memory are configured to identify a treatment event associated with treatment of a victim with the defibrillating system, and transmit a representation of a portion of an ECG signal associated with the identified treatment event. In some cases, the processor and the memory are configured to identify the portion of the ECG signal associated with the identified treatment event. In some cases, the portion of the ECG signal is of a predetermined length of time having a start time and an end time based on a time associated with the identified treatment event. |
| US09808635B2 |
Environment and use monitoring system for advanced life support devices
A data collection device (100) is described which monitors the environmental conditions and the operations of a medical device (10). The data collection device may be arranged to communicate wirelessly via a cloud computing environment with a central computer (210). The central computer compares the reported use data with a preventive maintenance model to predict when or how the medical device will fail. In addition, the central computer may integrate reports from many data collection devices operating in various environments for the purpose of analyzing and improving the predictive maintenance model. |
| US09808631B2 |
Communication between a plurality of medical devices using time delays between communication pulses to distinguish between symbols
Systems and methods for communicating between medical devices. In one example, an implantable medical device comprising may comprise one or more electrodes and a controller coupled to the electrodes. The controller may be configured to receive a first communication pulse at a first communication pulse time and a second communication pulse at a second communication pulse time via the one or more electrodes. The controller may further be configured to identify one of three or more symbols based at least in part on the time difference between the first communication pulse time and the second communication pulse time. |
| US09808628B2 |
Mode switching by a ventricular leadless pacing device
In some examples, a leadless pacing device (hereinafter, “LPD”) is configured for implantation in a ventricle of a heart of a patient, and is configured to switch between an atrio-ventricular synchronous pacing mode and an asynchronous ventricular pacing mode in response to detection of one or more sensing events, which may be, for example, undersensing events. In some examples, an LPD is configured to switch from a sensing without pacing mode to an atrio-ventricular synchronous pacing mode in response to determining, for a threshold number of cardiac cycles, a ventricular depolarization was not detected within a ventricular event detection window that begins at an atrial activation event. |
| US09808624B2 |
Interaural coherence based cochlear stimulation using adapted fine structure processing
A signal processing arrangement is described for signal processing in a bilateral hearing implant system having left side and right side hearing implants. An interaural coherence analysis module analyzes system input signals to produce an interaural coherence signal output characterizing reverberation-related similarity of the input signals. And a stimulation timing and coding module for each hearing implant processes band pass signals to develop stimulation timing signals based on selecting as a function of the interaural coherence signal a stimulation coding strategy from a plurality of different stimulation coding strategies including an envelope-based stimulation coding strategy based on the band pass envelope, and an event-based stimulation coding strategy based on the temporal fine structure features, producing the stimulation timing signals using the selected stimulation coding strategy, and switching between different selected stimulation coding strategies as a function of changes in the interaural coherence signal. |
| US09808623B2 |
Hearing system
The present disclosure relates to a hearing system. The hearing system comprises an implantable device configured to be implanted under the skin of a wearer and an external device configured to be positioned at an ear of the wearer. The external device comprises a transmit system configured to generate a wireless signal for being transmitted to the implantable device. |
| US09808622B2 |
Systems and methods for stimulating cellular function in tissue
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for stimulating cellular function in biological tissue. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a method for stimulating cellular function within tissue that involves providing a first type of energy to a region of tissue, in which the first type is provided in an amount that inhibits cellular function within the region of tissue, and providing a second type of energy to the region of tissue, in which the second type is provided in an amount that facilitates cellular function within the region of tissue, wherein the combined effect stimulates cellular function within the tissue. |
| US09808620B2 |
Method and apparatus for treating restless legs syndrome
Apparatuses and methods are disclosed that may be used to treat one or more restless leg syndrome (RLS) symptoms of a patient. One example method may include generating first and second stimulation waveforms using a waveform generator; electrically stimulating at least a portion of a sacral region of the patient, based on the first and second stimulation waveforms, using a number of electrodes; damping or interfering with electrical signals transmitted from the patient's brain to the patient's legs via a femoral nerve of the patient using the electrical stimulation; and reducing the one or more symptoms of RLS based on damping or interfering with the electrical signals transmitted from the patient's brain. |
| US09808611B2 |
Systems and methods for enhancing gas and vapor transfer for tissue treatment devices
Embodiments of the invention include methods of tissue/wound treatment and associated devices and systems, including devices for breaching bio-films contained in and around wounds, devices for maximizing moisture vapor transmission rate, and tissue dressings with added barrier features for permeable surfaces. |
| US09808607B2 |
System and method for determining position and pressure of an implantable shunt
In one aspect, an implantable shunt system is disclosed that, in one example implementation, includes a resilient member and a connected fluid regulating device. The fluid regulating device selectively permits fluid flow through an opening valve of an implantable shunt according to an adjustable opening pressure. The opening pressure is proportional to an amount of tension on the resilient member. One or more tension sensors that are connected to the resilient member measure an amount of tension on the resilient member. The tension sensors generate tension data that corresponds to the measured amount of tension. The system further includes a communication unit with a transmitting unit that transmits the measured data over a communication link. The system also includes a reading unit that receives the transmitted tension data over the communication link. The reading unit includes a connector that electrically connects the reading unit to the transmission unit. |
| US09808606B2 |
Valve system for inflatable medical device
The present invention relates to a valve system for an inflatable portion of an indwelling medical device and more particularly to a valve system for fluid regulation of a catheter comprising a fluid inflatable portion that undergoes pressure changes within the body during use. |
| US09808605B2 |
Controlled porosity devices for tissue treatments, methods of use, and methods of manufacture
In various embodiments, a device is provided comprising a balloon configured to expand to an expanded state in response to introduction of a fluid at a first pressure, wherein the fluid perfuses through the balloon above a second pressure, the second pressure being the same or greater than the first pressure. In various embodiments, a method comprising fabricating a balloon configured to expand to an expanded state in response to introduction of a fluid at a first pressure, wherein the fluid perfuses through the balloon above a second pressure, the second pressure being at or greater than the first pressure, disposing the balloon on an elongate member having a lumen, placing the lumen in fluid communication with an interior volume of the balloon. |
| US09808603B2 |
Medical instrument
A medical instrument includes a first elongated member including: a fluid lumen through which a fluid is flowable, an aperture opening located in a distal end surface of the first elongated member; a second elongated member including: an insertion lumen in which the first elongated member is insertable, and a discharge section through which the fluid can be discharged; and a movement section configured to form a seal between the first elongated member and the second elongated member in a state where the first elongated member is disposed in the insertion lumen of the second elongated member, the movement section being configured to allow the first elongated member and the second elongated member to move relative to each other such that the discharge section of the second elongated member is positionable on a distal side of the aperture of the first elongated member. |
| US09808602B2 |
Needle retraction apparatus
A needle retraction apparatus comprising a body having a forwardly projecting needle, a needle retraction mechanism seated inside the body and biasing the needle rearwardly relative to the body, a slide member attachable to the body and having an opening communicating with a needle retraction cavity projecting away from the body, and an actuator rotatable relative to the slide member to reposition the slide member from a first position preventing needle retraction to a second position permitting needle retraction. An IV catheter introducer comprising the subject needle retraction apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US09808599B2 |
Device delivery system
A catheter system utilizing one or more sensors is described. The catheter can be used as part of an embolic coil system, guidewire system, or combined embolic coil/guidewire system where the devices interact with the catheter system. A variable detachment embolic coil system and guidewire system are also described. |
| US09808597B2 |
Shape-transferring cannula system and method of use
The present invention is directed to a novel shape-transferring cannula system, which provides access to tortuous and unsupported paths. The shape-transferring cannula system and method enables exploration of hollow body structures, and creates a custom-contoured access port for insertion and removal of, for example, diagnostic, surgical, or interventional instruments to and from a site within the body to which the physician does not have line-of-sight access. |
| US09808595B2 |
Microfabricated catheter with improved bonding structure
Medical devices and methods for making and using the same. An example medical device may include a tubular member and a liner disposed within the tubular member. The tubular member may have a plurality of slots formed therein. A space may be defined between the tubular member and the liner. One or more bonding members may be disposed in the space. |
| US09808593B1 |
Apparatus for enhancement of oxygen and/or air flow control to nasal prongs
Nasal cannula apparatus, includes in an inlet tubular fitting sized and configured to directly endwise connect to a source of oxygen, or oxygen and air. The fitting defines an inlet flow passage area A, having a 15 mm external diameter. A pair of tubular prongs is operatively connected with the inlet fitting, and receivable in an infant's nostrils to deliver oxygen, or oxygen and air flow to the infant, the prongs each having flow passing area A3, and A1>>A3. |
| US09808589B2 |
Method for assembling a patient interface
A respiratory mask assembly includes a rigid mask frame and a cushion. A clip secures the cushion to the frame. |
| US09808587B2 |
Dose counter for inhaler having an anti-reverse rotation actuator
An inhaler includes a main body having a canister housing, a medicament canister retained in a central outlet port of the canister housing, and a dose counter having an actuation member for operation by movement of the medicament canister. The canister housing has an inner wall, and a first inner wall canister support formation extending inwardly from a main surface of the inner wall. The canister housing has a longitudinal axis X which passes through the center of the central outlet port. The first inner wall canister support formation, the actuation member, and the central outlet port lie in a common plane coincident with the longitudinal axis X such that the first inner wall canister support formation protects against unwanted actuation of the dose counter by reducing rocking of the medicament canister relative to the main body of the inhaler. |
| US09808585B2 |
Drug delivery device with tamper-evident closure means
A drug delivery device for administering a dose of a medicament by way of injection is disclosed, the device including a housing to receive a cartridge at least partially filled with a medicament and being sealed with a piston slidably disposed therein, a drive mechanism having a piston rod to be displaced in a distal direction to operably engage with the piston of the cartridge, a dose button operably engaged with the drive mechanism for at least one of preparing or initiating a dose dispensing action of the drive mechanism, and a protective member adapted to impede actuation of the dose button, wherein the protective member is releasably connected to the housing via a breakable seal. |
| US09808583B2 |
Percutaneous medication device and needle formation used for the device
A percutaneous medication device, comprising a syringe to be filled with medical liquid and a needle formation attached to a leading-end of the syringe is provided. The needle formation comprises a needle formation body, from the surface of which a needle projects and a cover portion covers a leading-end of the needle formation body. The needle is inserted into a through-hole formed at the leading-end of the needle formation body and fixed by a fixation member. The needle formation body is mated to the cover portion, a space is formed between an inner surface of the cover portion and the leading-end of the needle formation body, and the needle projects from the leading-end surface of the cover portion through a needle insertion hole formed at the leading-end of the cover portion. |
| US09808582B2 |
Two-stage reconstituting injector
An injector (10) for injecting a medicament into a patient. The injector includes a container (18) defining a first chamber (22), which contains a fluid therein, and a second chamber (23). The injector also includes an injection conduit (126) configured for directing the fluid fired from the container into the patient. A transfer mechanism is operable by a user to transfer the fluid from the first chamber to the second chamber in a first stage of operation, and a firing mechanism is operable by the user for firing the fluid from the second chamber through the injection conduit in a second stage of operation. An energy source (62) is in powering association with the firing mechanism to drive firing mechanism in the first and second stages. |
| US09808579B2 |
Needleless injector systems, and related methods and components
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to systems and methods for protecting needleless injector units from one or more contaminants. In an embodiment, a needleless injector system includes a needleless injector unit and an auxiliary unit. The needleless injector unit has a nozzle portion and a supply of one or more substances for injection. The needleless injector unit is configured to inject the one or more substances from the nozzle portion through a skin surface of a subject. The auxiliary unit is coupleable to the needleless injector unit. The auxiliary unit includes a source of one or more protectants and is configured to emit the one or more protectants in a region between the nozzle portion of the needleless injector unit and the skin surface of the subject. |
| US09808572B2 |
System, method and apparatus for clamping
A number of racks which are configured to allow a number of devices to couple thereto are provided. In some embodiments, the racks are for use with a number of medical devices. Devices may be coupled to a rack by clamps. The racks may include a number of connectors which provide power and/or a network connection to devices coupled thereto. The racks may include a clamp which allows the racks to couple to a supporting structure such as a pole. |
| US09808571B2 |
High pressure sensor for use with a fluid delivery system
A pressure sensor for use with a fluid delivery system having good sensitivity at low pressure, but also configured to remain in operating condition after being exposed to high pressures is disclosed herein. In one variation, the pressure sensor includes a fluid path set, a deformable element associated with the fluid path set and configured to deform in response to an external pressure, and a pressure transducer for monitoring deformation of the deformable element. In certain embodiments, the pressure sensor is configured to measure fluid pressure within the range of between about 0 mm Hg to about 300 mm Hg. However, the sensor pressure is also be configured to remain functional after being exposed to pressure in excess of about 60,000 mm Hg. |
| US09808568B2 |
Apparatus and method for separating and concentrating a component of a fluid
A system for separating and concentrating a component of a whole material is disclosed. The whole material can include a material that has more than one component, such as whole blood that can include at least red blood cells, monocytes, and plasma. The system can include a substantially single container including a separation section and a concentration section wherein a component can be moved from the separation section, after a separation, to the concentration section to be concentrated. The concentrated component can then be withdrawn from the separation and concentration container for a selected procedure. |
| US09808567B2 |
Diaphragm repositioning for pressure pod using position sensing
Pressure measurement system (e.g., for an extracorporeal treatment system), method and pressure pod apparatus including a position sensor for use in repositioning a diaphragm that separates a liquid side cavity from a transducer side cavity (e.g., operatively connected to a pressure transducer); the liquid side cavity being in fluid communication with an inlet and an outlet. |
| US09808564B2 |
Systems for establishing supplemental blood flow in the circulatory system
A blood circulation assist system comprising an inflow cannula having a lumen and an insertion device configured to be received therein and to facilitate insertion of a portion of the inflow cannula into a heart chamber. The insertion device includes a shaft having distal and proximal end portions and a plurality of lumens. A first lumen is configured to receive a guidewire and a second lumen is configured to receive a pressurized fluid. A tip connected to the distal end portion of the shaft is configured for insertion into the heart chamber. The tip has a hollow interior communicating with the first shaft lumen. An inflatable member is coupled to the distal end portion of the shaft and includes a hollow interior in fluid communication with the second shaft lumen. The inflatable member is movable between deflated and inflated configurations for releasably securing the insertion device to the inflow cannula. |
| US09808558B2 |
Allografts combined with tissue derived stem cells for bone healing
There is disclosed a method of combining mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with a bone substrate. In an embodiment, the method includes obtaining tissue having MSCs together with unwanted cells. The tissue is digested to form a cell suspension having MSCs and unwanted cells. The cell suspension is added to the substrate. The substrate is cultured to allow the MSCs to adhere. The substrate is rinsed to remove unwanted cells. In various embodiments, the tissue is adipose tissue, muscle tissue, or bone marrow tissue. In an embodiment, there is disclosed an allograft product including a combination of MSCs with a bone substrate in which the combination is manufactured by culturing MSCs disposed on the substrate for a period of time to allow the MSCs to adhere to the substrate, and then rinsing the substrate to remove unwanted cells from the substrate. Other embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US09808557B2 |
Tubular silk compositions and methods of use thereof
Described are tubular silk fibroin compositions and methods for their manufacture and use. Tubular compositions as described herein can be produced in a range of high burst strengths, can easily be made in a range of inner diameters, can be derivatized with functional moieties, and can be produced in a range of permeabilities suitable for particularized uses. In one aspect, the tubular compositions can be used in the repair or replacement of damaged or diseased blood vessels, including, but not limited to vessels smaller than about 6 mm. |
| US09808555B2 |
Biomineralization promoting materials and methods of forming same
Bone tissue biomimetic materials, biomimetic constructs that can be formed with the materials, and methods for forming the materials and constructs are described. The bone tissue biomimetic materials include electrospun nanofibers formed of polymers that are conjugated with peptides that include acidic amino acid residues. The materials can incorporate high levels of mineralization so as to provide mechanical strength and promote osteogenesis and/or osteoconductivity on/in the bone tissue biomimetic materials. The materials and constructs can be utilized in forming tissue engineered structures for in vitro and in vivo use. Macroscopic bone tissue biomimetic scaffolds formed from the materials can be seeded with osteogenic cells and utilized to develop bone graft materials that can exhibit strength and osteoconductivity similar to the native bone and that exhibit uniform distribution of nutrients in the scaffolds. |
| US09808551B2 |
Absorbent article with philic anhydrous lotion
A lotion composition is provided. The lotion composition can comprise a) about 0.1% to about 90%, by weight, of a microcrystalline wax; b) about 0.1% to about 25%, by weight, of POE-4 monolaurate; c) about 0.1% to about 50%, by weight, of POE-8 monostearate; and d) a carrier. |
| US09808550B2 |
Scent delivery system
A scent delivery assembly that includes a main body portion that defines an interior and includes at least one intake opening and at least one outlet opening, an airflow path that is defined between the intake opening and the outlet opening, a fan positioned along the airflow path, and at least a first cartridge positioned along the airflow path. The first cartridge includes a first cover that is movable between a closed position and an open position and a scent assembly. The scent assembly is not in flow communication with the airflow path when the first cover is in the closed position, and the scent assembly is in flow communication with the airflow path when the first cover is in the open position. |
| US09808548B2 |
Regeneration of antimicrobial coatings containing metal derivatives upon exposure to vapor-phase hydrogen peroxide
A regenerable antimicrobial coating with long-lasting efficacy for use in medical applications including implants, medical instruments or devices, and hospital equipment is disclosed. The regenerable antimicrobial coating is derived from a polymer doped with a metal derivative which has been exposed to vapor-phase hydrogen peroxide, wherein hydrogen peroxide is sequestered in or on the doped polymer. |
| US09808543B2 |
Iron garnet nanoparticles for cancer radiotherapy and chemotherapy
Iron garnet nanoparticles and or iron garnet particles containing various activatable nuclides, such as holmium-165 (165Ho) and dysprosium-164 (164Dy), are disclosed in this application. The iron garnet (e.g., HoIG and DyIG) nanoparticles and iron garnet particles can prepared using hydroxide co-precipitation methods. In some embodiments, radiosensitizers can be loaded on radioactive magnetic nanoparticles or radioactive iron garnet particles and, optionally, coated with suitable lipid bilayers. Methods of using the disclosed nanoparticles and particles for mediating therapeutic benefit in diseases responsive to radiation therapy are also provided. Another aspect of the invention provides films, electrospun fabrics or bandage coverings for the delivery of radiation to the site of a skin lesion amenable to treatment with radiation (e.g., skin cancers or psoriasis). |
| US09808540B2 |
Contrast agent for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging comprising melanin nanoparticles stably dispersed in water
The present invention relates to a contrast agent for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, and more particularly, to a contrast agent for nuclear magnetic resonance imaging containing melanin nanoparticles having a uniform shape and size, thereby providing good dispersibility in water, no cell toxicity, and a long retention time in vivo. |
| US09808539B2 |
Hypoosmotic solutions for lymph node detection
Provided are compositions for rapid detection of lymph nodes. The compositions include magnetic particles, such as iron oxide, and a solute present in an amount that results in a hypoosomotic solution. Methods for detecting lymph nodes also are provided. |
| US09808537B2 |
Antibody-drug conjugate
As an antitumor drug which is excellent in terms of antitumor effect and safety, there is provided an antibody-drug conjugate in which an antitumor compound represented by the following formula is conjugated to an antibody via a linker having a structure represented by the following formula: -L1-L2-LP-NH—(CH2)n1-La-Lb-Lc- wherein the antibody is connected to the terminal of L1, and the antitumor compound is connected to the terminal of Lc with the nitrogen atom of the amino group at position 1 as a connecting position. |
| US09808534B2 |
Method of increasing the hydrodynamic volume of polypeptides by attaching to gonadotrophin carboxy terminal peptides
This invention is directed to the use of a chorionic gonadotrophin carboxy terminal peptide (CTP) or fragments thereof for modifying a polypeptide or a fragment thereof in order to increase the hydrodynamic volume of the polypeptide or fragment thereof. |
| US09808533B2 |
Multi-arm polymer prodrugs
Provided herein are water-soluble prodrugs, compositions comprising such prodrugs, and related methods of making and administering the same. The prodrugs of the invention comprise a water-soluble polymer having three or more arms, at least three of which are typically covalently attached to an active agent, e.g., a small molecule. The conjugates of the invention provide an optimal balance of polymer size and structure for achieving improved drug loading, since the conjugates of the invention possess three or more active agents releasably attached to a multi-armed water-soluble polymer. The prodrugs of the invention are therapeutically effective, and exhibit improved properties in-vivo when compared to unmodified parent drug. |
| US09808528B2 |
Protein-polymer-drug conjugates and methods of using same
A polymeric scaffold useful for conjugating with a protein based recognition-molecule (PBRM) to form a PBRM-polymer-drug conjugate is described herein. The scaffold includes one or more terminal maleimido groups. Also disclosed is a PBRM-polymer-drug conjugate prepared from the scaffold. Compositions comprising the conjugates, methods of their preparation, and methods of treating various disorders, such as cancer in a subject having low HER2 expression with the conjugates or their compositions are also described. |
| US09808525B2 |
Stable aqueous formulations of adalimumab
The invention provides aqueous pharmaceutical adalimumab compositions suitable for long-term storage of adalimumab, methods of manufacture of these compositions, methods of administration, and kits containing same. |
| US09808524B2 |
Combination of local and systemic immunomodulative therapies for melanoma and liver cancer
A method for the treatment of cancer comprising administration of a therapeutically effective amount of an intralesional chemoablative pharmaceutical composition, or variant of said composition, in combination with a therapeutically effective amount of a systemic immunomodulatory anticancer agent. A further method for the treatment of cancer comprising administration of a therapeutically effective amount of an intralesional chemoablative pharmaceutical composition, or variant of said composition, in combination with a therapeutically effective amount of a systemic targeted anticancer agent. The present invention is further directed to pharmaceutical compositions for treatment of cancer. The intralesional chemoablative pharmaceutical composition can comprise an IL chemoablative agent comprising primarily a halogenated xanthene. |
| US09808523B2 |
Methods for treatment of brain injury utilizing biologics
A method of using biologics to treat chronic brain injury or spasticity due to stroke, trauma and other causes. Preferred embodiments include perispinal, parenteral, transepidermal or intranasal use of TNF antagonists. The TNF antagonists include TNF receptor fusion proteins, TNF monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), humanized TNF mAbs, fully human TNF mAbs, chimeric TNF mAbs, domain TNF antibodies, mAB fragments, anti-TNF nanobodies, dominant negative TNF constructs and TNF inhibitory single chain antibody fragments. One of the preferred embodiments of this invention is the perispinal administration of etanercept for treatment of mammals following stroke. The use of Trendelenburg positioning, catheters, pumps, or depot formulations are included. |
| US09808521B2 |
Silicon dioxide nanoparticles and the use thereof for vaccination
The invention relates to ultrasmall, monodisperse nanoparticles comprising silicon dioxide to the surface of which at least one antigen is attached. The nanoparticles can be used for the immunoprophylaxis or immunotherapy of cancer. The invention also relates to a method for the targeting of antigens at antigen-presenting cells and for the activation of the immune system, where the efficiency of targeting and/or immunoactivation are set via the particle characteristics. The invention also relates to a method for the active and passive immunization of a mammal. |
| US09808516B2 |
Immunogenic fusion proteins for the treatment of cancer
Provided herein are compositions and methods for eliciting an immune response in a subject. In particular, the present disclosure is directed to immunogenic fusion proteins and methods of eliciting an immune response using host cells comprising nucleic acid molecules encoding said fusion proteins. |
| US09808514B2 |
Method of using salmon thrombin to alleviate central nervous system-mediated pain
A method of alleviating central nervous system-mediated pain includes applying salmon thrombin at a neural injury site. Applying salmon thrombin can include applying a gel that includes salmon thrombin. The gel can also include fibrinogen, for example, salmon fibrinogen, human fibrinogen, or bovine fibrinogen. The salmon thrombin can be obtained from salmon plasma, or using recombinant technology, or by fractionation. A pain relief substance includes a gel that includes salmon thrombin. |
| US09808513B2 |
Method of treatment of cancer using guanosine 3′, 5′ cyclic monophosphate (cyclic GMP)
A method of treating cancer through use of guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic GMP). Cyclic GMP decreases the number of human breast cancer and prostate adenocarcinoma as well as small-cell and squamous lung cells in culture by 30% (1 μM), 84% (1 mM), 31% (1 μM), and 30% (1 μM), respectively. Cyclic GMP decreases DNA synthesis in human pancreatic, breast, and prostate adenocarcinomas as well as small-cell and squamous cell carcinomas of the lung at its 1 μM concentration by 51%, 54%, 56%, 50% and 52%, respectively. Cyclic GMP when infused for one week decreases the tumor volume of human pancreatic adenocarcinomas in athymic mice 95% compared to untreated animals with human pancreatic adenocarcinomas. |
| US09808506B2 |
Compositions comprising semaphorins for the treatment of cancer and methods of selection thereof
A method of selecting a semaphorin for treating cancer in a subject is disclosed. The method comprises determining an expression of a semaphorin receptor on tumor cells of a tumor sample of the subject wherein an amount of the semaphorin receptor is indicative of the semaphorin suitable for treating the cancer in the subject. Kits for treating cancer and pharmaceutical compositions comprising semaphorins are also disclosed. |
| US09808505B2 |
Suppression of malignant mesothelioma by overexpression or stimulation of endothelial protein C receptors (EPCR)
The influence of TF, endothelial cell protein C receptor (EPCR) and protease activated receptor-1 (PAR1) on tumor growth of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is disclosed. MPM cells that lack or express TF, EPCR or PAR1 and a murine orthotopic model of MPM led to the discovery that intrapleural administration into nude mice of REN MPM cells expressing TF and PAR1 but lacking EPCR and PAR2 generated large pleural cavity tumors. Suppression of TF or PAR1 expression markedly reduced tumor growth. Overexpression of TF in non-aggressive MPM cells expressing EPCR and PAR1 but exhibiting minimal levels of TF failed to alter their tumorigenicity. Introduction of EPCR expression in aggressive MPM cells attenuated tumor growth whereas EPCR silencing in non-aggressive MPM cells overexpressing TF increased tumorigenicity of non-aggressive cells. Expression of EPCR by MPM cells suppresses tumor growth and treats MPM. |
| US09808501B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating and preventing hyperlipidemia, fatty liver, atherosclerosis and other disorders associated with metabolic syndrome
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for treating diseases associated with dyslipidemia, including hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, steatohepatitis, atherosclerosis, obesity, hyperglycemia, metabolic syndrome, and related aspects of and conditions associated with metabolic syndrome. The compositions and methods disclosed herein are useful for regulating the lipid balance (lipid homeostasis) in a subject. Compositions and methods including a Nuclear Transport Modifier may be administered to a subject to modulate the transport of transcription factors, mediated by nuclear import adaptors, into the nucleus of a cell resulting in a decrease in cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood and liver, a decrease in atherosclerotic lesion size, a decrease in body weight and in hyperglycemia, a reduction of fatty liver inflammation, and an improvement in liver function. |
| US09808499B2 |
Oriental medicine compositions marked as SEC 22 and SEC 33 for improving children's underweight, low growth and depressed respiratory organ
The present invention relates to oriental medicine compositions marked as SEC 22 and SEC 33 for improving digestive functions and respiratory functions for improving children's underweight, low growth and depressed respiratory organ, an oriental medicine derived therefrom, and methods of preparing them. According to an example of the present invention, the oriental medicine composition containing broiled fruit of Crataegus pinnatifida, broiled root of Atractylodes japonica, dried peel of Citrus unshiu, broiled sprout of Hordeum vulgare, broiled fruit of Amomum xanthioides, root of Zingiber officinale, dried fruit of Zizyphi, and horn of Cervus elaphus. |
| US09808497B2 |
Formulations of concentrated prunes and prebiotics as laxatives and dietary supplements
The present invention describes a formulation comprising a prune and/or plum concentrate, and one or more water-soluble, non-digestible, prebiotic oligosaccharides. Optionally, one or more low calorie sweeteners, an antioxidant, calcium sennosides, or sennosides extract, PEG-3350, licorice, cocoa, coffee, tea flavors; fruit flavorings and spice flavorings, gelatin, agar-agar, carrageenan, pectin or cocoa powder are added. Other ingredients may be present as dietary supplements such as water-soluble vitamins, lipid-soluble vitamins; amino acids, maltodextrin, resveratrol, caffeine, mineral supplements, or natural sleep aids for use as a laxative, A variety of formulations are possible, such as premix, a laxative+energy power drink or power bar, or as a prebiotic supplement in probiotic yogurts, or in the form of gummies, chocolates, candies, and desserts such as red beans Japanese desserts. These present formulations are improved for taste, fast acting, portable and palatable laxatives, and as dietary supplements. |
| US09808488B2 |
Isolated populations of renal stem cells and methods of isolating and using same
Isolated populations of fetal renal stem cells and progenitor cells are provided. Also provided are methods of generating and using these isolated populations of cells. |
| US09808487B2 |
Methods for rejuvenating red blood cells
Methods for transfusing blood to a mammalian subject. The method includes obtaining a unit of blood, rejuvenating the blood with an enhancement composition, measuring a level of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in the blood, and delivering the blood to a subject. |
| US09808485B2 |
Immunomodulatory properties of multipotent adult progenitor cells and uses thereof
Isolated cells are described that are not embryonic stem cells, not embryonic germ cells, and not germ cells. The cells can differentiate into at least one cell type of each of at least two of the endodermal, ectodermal, and mesodermal lineages. The cells do not provoke a harmful immune response. The cells can modulate immune responses. As an example, the cells can suppress an immune response in a host engendered by allogeneic cells, tissues, and organs. Methods are described for using the cells, by themselves or adjunctively, to treat subjects. For instance, the cells can be used adjunctively for immunosuppression in transplant therapy. Methods for obtaining the cells and compositions for using them also are described. |
| US09808484B2 |
Anti-inflammatory composition for aiding and promoting the healing of chronic ulcerative lesions
The invention relates to an anti-inflammatory composition comprising: 53 wt.-% maltodextrin in relation to the total weight; 10-12 wt.-% zinc oxide as a thixotropic agent; 1.8 wt.-% maltose; 0.0002 wt.-% sodium; 0.0002 wt.-% potassium; 0.0002 wt.-% calcium; 0.0002 wt.-% phosphor; and 0.0006 wt.-% magnesium. The composition has an application viscosity in the range of 12,000-33,000 cp, a pH of between 5.6 and 6.9, a TGA of 61.12 and bond strength at 24 hours of 6 MPa. |
| US09808477B2 |
Use of nobiletin in cancer treatment
The present invention discloses a pharmaceutical composition of treating multidrug resistance cancer, comprising a citrus methoxyflavone and a chemotherapeutic drug, in which the citrus methoxyflavone is nobiletin. A method of treating multidrug resistance cancer comprising administrating citrus methoxyflavone and a chemotherapeutic drug is also disclosed. |
| US09808476B2 |
Feed supplement comprising oligosaccharides and medium chain fatty acids
The present invention relates to a feed supplement and a feed containing this feed supplement, comprising 1) a homotrimer, heterotrimer, homotetramer and/or heterotetramer of a carbohydrate component selected from the group consisting of a pentose saccharide, a hexose saccharide, glucuronic and galacturonic acid, and 2) a medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA), selected from the group consisting of caproic acid (C6), caprylic (C8), capric (C10) and lauric acid (C12). The invention also refers to the use of the feed supplement or feed in order to improve the efficiency of animal production, such as weight gain, feed conversion, nutritive value, health and wellbeing through the selective elimination of enteropathogens. |
| US09808471B2 |
Nasal pharmaceutical formulations and methods of using the same
Nasal pharmaceutical formulations comprising a drug substance having a specific particle size distribution profile are disclosed herein. Such profile provides increased bioavailability, increased efficacy or prolonged therapeutic effect of the drug substance when administered intranasally. The formulations of the present invention may comprise one or more corticosteroids having a specific particle size distribution profile. In a preferred embodiment, the corticosteroid is fluticasone or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof for the treatment of one or more symptoms of rhinitis. Preferably, the drug substance is fluticasone propionate. The formulations herein may be provided as an aqueous suspension suitable for inhalation via the intranasal route. |
| US09808467B2 |
Methods for treating GI tract disorders
Provided herein are methods, compositions, and kits for the treatment of an enteric nervous system disorder. Such methods may comprise administering to a subject an effective amount of a phenothiazine compound, a peripherally restricted dopamine decarboxylase inhibitor, and/or a peripherally restricted dopamine D2 receptor antagonist that does not substantially inhibit hERG channels. |
| US09808465B2 |
Emulsion formulations of aprepitant
Disclosed herein are novel pharmaceutical formulations of aprepitant suitable for parenteral administration including intravenous administration. Also included are formulations including both aprepitant and dexamethasone sodium phosphate. The pharmaceutical formulations are stable oil-in-water emulsions for non-oral treatment of emesis and are particularly useful for treatment of subjects undergoing highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy. |
| US09808464B2 |
Compounds and compositions for ossification and methods related thereto
The disclosure relates to compounds and compositions for forming bone and methods related thereto. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a composition comprising a compound disclosed herein, such as 2,4-diamino-1,3,5-triazine derivatives or salts thereof, for use in bone growth processes. In a typical embodiment, a bone graft composition is implanted in a subject at a site of desired bone growth or enhancement. |
| US09808458B2 |
Plasmodial surface anion channel inhibitors for the treatment or prevention of malaria
The invention provides methods of treating or preventing malaria comprising administering to an animal an effective amount of a compound of formula I: Q-Y—R1—R2 (I), wherein Q, Y, R1, and R2 are as described herein. Methods of inhibiting a plasmodial surface anion channel of a parasite in an animal are also provided. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound represented by formula I in combination with any one or more compounds represented by formulas II, V, and VI. Use of the pharmaceutical compositions for treating or preventing malaria or for inhibiting a plasmodial surface anion channel in animals including humans are also provided. Also provided by the invention are clag3 amino acid sequences and related nucleic acids, vectors, host cells, populations of cells, antibodies, and pharmaceutical compositions. |
| US09808456B2 |
Piperazine thiazole derivatives useful in the treatment of tauopathies such as Alzheimer's disease
The present invention relates to a compound of formula (IA), wherein G1 is lower alkyl; lower alkyl substituted by one or more halogens; cycloalkyl; tetrahydropyran-4-yl; phenethyl; phenethyl substituted by one or more halogens; phenoxymethyl; phenoxymethyl substituted by one or more halogens; benzyloxyethyl; benzyloxy-ethyl substituted by one or more halogens; or is —NR2R3; R2 is hydrogen or lower alkyl; R3 is lower alkyl; tetrahydropyran-4-yl; —CH2-cycloalkyl; or cycloalkyl optionally substituted by lower alkyl substituted by one or more halogens; or R2 and R3 form together with the N-atom to which they are attached a heterocycloalkyl group with 4 or 5 carbon atoms, which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents selected from halogen; or lower alkyl substituted by one or more halogens; X is —CH2— or —(CH2)2—; Ar is phenyl or pyridinyl; R4 is halogen; lower alkyl; lower alkyl substituted by one or more halogens; or lower alkoxy; n is 1 or 2; or to a pharmaceutically active salt thereof, to a stereoisomeric form, including an individual diastereoisomer or enantiomer of the compound of formula (IA) as well as to a racemic or non-racemic mixture thereof. The present invention also relates to the use of a compound of formula (IA) for treating certain neurodegenerative disorders characterized by cytotoxic TAU misfolding and/or aggregation. |
| US09808454B2 |
Compositions for the mobilization, homing, expansion and differentiation of stem cells and methods of using the same
The invention provides compositions that increase the mobilization, homing, expansion, and/or differentiation of stem cells and methods of using the same for the treatment of mammals. |
| US09808448B2 |
Pharmaceutical compounds and use of same in cancer and tauopathies
Disclosed are compounds of formula (l)-(V): where the substituents are as provided herein. Further disclosed are methods of inhibiting tau aggregation, treating or ameliorating a tauopathy or cancer by administration of such a compound. Tau is a microtubule-binding protein that accumulates in a number of neurodegenerative disorders, including frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The presence of abnormal tau correlates with neuron loss and memory deficits in patients with AD and other neurodegenerative disorders that involve tau accumulation. |
| US09808445B2 |
Factor IXa inhibitors
In its many embodiments, the present invention provides a novel class of benzamide compounds represented by Formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof, or pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more said compounds or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof, and methods for using said compounds or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof for treating or preventing a thromboses, embolisms, hypercoagulability or fibrotic changes. |
| US09808441B2 |
Dietary supplement containing alkaline electrolyte buffers
An improved dietary and/or therapeutic supplement composition comprising a quantity of a dietary and/or therapeutic supplement agent having a pH that upon ingestion with food or a beverage would limit the effectiveness of the agent and a sufficient amount of an alkaline electrolyte additive is provided in combination with the agent to raise the pH of the composition to a level of from about 8 to about 12.5 to increase the effectiveness and functional utilization of the agent while the composition is in the person's stomach. |
| US09808434B2 |
Compound for treating cancer and diabetes
One aspect of the disclosure relates to the use of derivatives of dichlorophenyl urea for treating cancers. |
| US09808429B2 |
Topical drug patch including microspheres
A topical drug delivery patch (1) comprising a drug delivery layer (3) including microspheres (2) encapsulating a drug, said microspheres being carried in a hydro gel. The drug delivery layer has a support layer (5) which is attached to a first face of the drug deliver layer and a releasable protective layer (4) attached to a second face of the drug delivery layer. The releasable protective layer can be peeled away do the patch can be applied to the skin to release drugs in the microspheres. The patch is particularly useful for treating skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. |
| US09808424B2 |
Method for formulating large diameter synthetic membrane vesicles
The present invention generally relates to the field of pharmaceutical sciences. More specifically, the present invention includes apparatus and devices for the preparation of pharmaceutical formulations containing large diameter synthetic membrane vesicles, such as multivesicular liposomes, methods for preparing such formulations, and the use of specific formulations for therapeutic treatment of subjects in need thereof. Formation and use of the pharmaceutical formulations containing large diameter synthetic membrane vesicles produced by using the apparatus and devices for therapeutic treatment of subjects in need thereof is also contemplated. |
| US09808420B2 |
Drug delivery devices for delivery of ocular therapeutic agents
Drug delivery devices comprising a non-bioabsorbable polymer structure configured to support a composition comprising an active agent. The devices include a plurality of portions fused together and a recess configured to support the composition. At least one of the portions includes an impermeable polymer and at least one other portion includes a rate-limiting water-permeable polymer. The rate-limiting water-permeable polymer allows for transportation of the active agent to an exterior of the device. |
| US09808418B2 |
Pharmaceutical dosage form
A pH responsive and mucoadhesive pharmaceutical dosage form for the release of a pharmaceutically active agent is described. The dosage form includes a mucoadhesive layer for site-specific mucoadhesion, a water-insoluble outer layer, and an intermediate layer including one or more pharmaceutically active agents for site-specific delivery. The different membranous layers perform different functions in order to create a drug delivery system which is able to deliver a drug to a specific site, for a particular period of time and with a specific drug release pattern. The dosage form can have two or more intermediate layers, each layer comprising an active agent. The mucoadhesive layer can also include an active agents. The dosage form is preferably an oral or buccal delivery form for release of the active agent into the gastro intestinal tract. The intermediate layer can be an electrospun fibrous membrane layer containing the active agent. |
| US09808417B2 |
Compositions comprising Docynia delavajy extract and/or Elaeagnus lancelotus extract
Disclosed is a method of treating skin in need thereof, the method comprising topically applying to the skin a composition comprising an effective amount of an ethanolic or a butanolic extract from the leaf and stem of Docynia delavajy, wherein the composition reduces oxidation in the skin, reduces tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the skin, or reduces metalloprotease-1 (MMP-1) activity in the skin. |
| US09808406B2 |
Composition, comprising hydrofluoric acid, for inhibiting dental erosion
The present invention relates to a composition, for inhibiting dental erosion, and the use thereof. The composition comprises an aqueous solution of hydrofluoric acid, in which the concentration of hydrofluoric acid is 0.05%-2.00% and the pH is between 2.5 and 4.5. |
| US09808403B2 |
Method and apparatus for medication storage and delivery
An intelligent pill box device comprising: a base and a display panel. The base includes a plurality of cylindrical shaped receptacles for storing medication bottles wherein each receptacle includes a radio frequency identification reader, a faraday cage, and a load cell at the bottom of the receptacle to measure the weight of the contents of the receptacle. |
| US09808402B2 |
Liquid medicine preparation system and method of preparing liquid medicine
A liquid medicine preparation system that prepares a liquid medicine includes: a preparing zone in which preparation work of the liquid medicine is performed by a robot; and a storing zone which has a plurality of first spaces each of which is capable of storing a container housing the liquid medicine prepared. |
| US09808400B2 |
Catheter tray, packaging system, and associated methods
A tray (100) for accommodating a coiled medical device, such as a catheter assembly (700), includes a first compartment (101), a second compartment (102), and a third compartment (103). The catheter assembly (700) and devices associated with a catheterization procedure, such as syringes (701,702) containing sterile water and lubricating jelly and a specimen container (703) can be disposed within the tray. A first barrier (105) and second barrier (106) separate the compartments. The barriers can have openings (121,122) therein to accommodate large syringes or to enable the first compartment (101) to be used as a lubricant applicator for the catheter. The first compartment (101) can include a stair-stepped contour (115) such that the syringes are held at different depths to facilitate ease of use. The various devices can be disposed within the tray (100) in accordance with their order of use in the catheterization procedure. |
| US09808398B1 |
Shuttle jet
A hydrotherapy shuttle jet apparatus that provides for the movement of a movable shuttle wherein the movable shuttle reciprocates back and forth along the center axis of the jet apparatus with the application of pressurized water flow wherein the movable shuttle has a specific shape and size as to move within a cavity in the jet that is held in place through the force of the eddy currents created by the pressurized water flow. The shuttle is able to maintain its position substantially centered on the center axis. |
| US09808391B1 |
Walker safety device
A safety device for a walker includes a distance measuring sensor for determining whether a user is at too far or too close distances relative to the front side of the walker. The sensor provides data to a CPU processor indicative of such events. The processor includes logic which analyzes such data and provides audial, visual and/or tactile stimuli to the user warning the user that he/she is at undesirable distances relative to the walker. The process logic can be modified so as to vary the type and/or frequency of warnings given to the user. |
| US09808390B2 |
Foot plate assembly for use in an exoskeleton apparatus
An exoskeleton for a leg of a user comprises a leg structure, a foot plate moveably mounted thereto, and a biasing member extending between the leg structure and the foot plate, the foot plate is moveably mounted to the leg structure between a first position in which the rearward portion extends downwardly and the forward portion extends upwardly and a second position in which the rearward portion extends upwardly and the forward portion extends downwardly and the foot plate is biased to the first position. |
| US09808386B2 |
Seat support
A seat support device is provided. The seat support is configured to receive a seat cushion and provide support to the cushion as well as providing two support handles above the cushion. The combination of these elements allows an elderly, disabled, or otherwise weakened person to easily rise from a seated to standing position. |
| US09808385B2 |
Lift-recliner chair
A lift-recliner chair includes a base section, movable seat and backrest sections and a powered actuator for relative moving the seat and backrest sections. The seat section is pivotally mounted with respect to the base section and the backrest is pivotally mounted with respect to the seat section. The base and seat sections each have a pair of side panels arranged substantially parallel with respect to each other on both sides of the chair with the actuator means enclosed in the interior region of the chair in all adjustment positions of the chair. The base and seat sections are arranged telescopically and moveable respect to the base section. The actuator has a first range of movement for moving the backrest with respect to the seat section and a second range of movement for moving the seat section and backrest with respect to the base. |
| US09808384B2 |
Unilateral transition means for adapting a wheelchair
A transition means for adapting a wheelchair is disclosed wherein a user or an occupant of the wheelchair is enabled to repeatably alternate the wheelchair between an original mode and an adapted mode by engaging and disengaging a unilaterally-connected adaptive implement. |
| US09808383B2 |
Elevated height wheelchair
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a wheelchair configured to reposition an occupant between a lowered and a raised position. The wheelchair can include a frame, a seat moveable relative to the frame, a drive wheel, and one or more pairs of arm assemblies. The arm assembly includes a wheel configured to move from a first spatial location when the wheel chair is operating on flat, level ground to a second spatial location that is different than the first spatial location. Arm limiters can selectively engage the arm assembly based on at least one of a seat position, position of the arm assembly and surface conditions of ground surface. The arm limiters can limit the range of motion of the arm assembly and sometimes other operational aspects of the chair. |
| US09808380B2 |
Absorbent article with elastically elongatable panel
Closure elements that include elastic and non-elastic regions are disclosed as well as absorbent articles that include closure elements. |
| US09808379B2 |
Pants-type wearing article and production method for same
A pull-on garment (1) includes an outer cover (3) forming an outer surface of the garment, both lateral side edge portions of the outer cover in a front body portion F and both lateral side edge portions of the outer cover in a back body portion R being joined to each other to form a pair of side seals (4), a waist opening (8), and a pair of leg openings (9). Each of the side seals (4) includes a seal edge portion (41) where the edge portion (3F) of the outer cover (3) in the front body portion F and the edge portion of the outer cover (3) in the back body portion R are bonded to each other by a continuous linear fusion-bonded portion (40) extending in a longitudinal direction of the side seal (4). In a cross-section orthogonal to a direction in which the side seal (4) extends, the fusion-bonded portion (40) includes a narrow section (4F) which is formed at a middle portion thereof in the thickness direction Q and of which a width W along the inner-to-outer direction P is small. The narrow section (4F) includes broad sections (4A, 4B) which are provided on both sides of the narrow section (4F) in the thickness direction Q and of which the width W is larger than the width of the narrow section (4F). |
| US09808375B2 |
Power-saving method for defogging an eye-shield
Power saving method providing a burst of power for defogging an eye-shield apparatus with a thin-film heater, comprising: activating the heater from an off power level to an on-demand mode or from a preliminary intermediate power level during an active-on mode to a max power level and continuing heating for a predetermined first period of time, automatically reducing power after the first period of time and sustaining the lesser power for a second predetermined period of time, after which program control automatically turns off the heater, or automatically reduces the heat back to the preliminary intermediate power level depending upon the initial state of the heater upon activating the burst of power, whether on or off. The method may be repeated as often as necessary from off level in the on-demand mode, or from within a continuous active-on mode. |
| US09808372B2 |
Therapeutic instrument and attachment thereof
There is provided a therapeutic instrument, for storing a sheet-type therapeutic substance to which a liquid is delivered, and delivering the stored therapeutic substance to an affected part, including: a nozzle member 23 having an opening 34 on a tip end of a tubular part 31 in which the therapeutic substance can be stored, for charging and discharging the therapeutic substance; and a syringe unit 22 that selectively causes a negative pressure and a positive pressure to act in the tubular part 31 through a hole of a valve member 27, wherein the space 33 of the tubular part 31 is the space for sucking the therapeutic substance into the tubular part 31 together with the liquid by causing the negative pressure in the tubular part 31 by the syringe unit 22 when the therapeutic substance is stored therein, and is the space for pushing out the therapeutic substance to outside of the tubular part 31 together with the liquid by causing the positive pressure to act in the tubular part 31 by the syringe unit 22 when the stored therapeutic substance is delivered to the affected part. |
| US09808370B1 |
Anti-snoring pillow
The invention is a pillow that positions the neck enabling the sleeper to keep his airways open and get a good night's rest without snoring. The invention is a rectangular block of foam with a center cavity for an individual's head. The pillow is contoured to allow the lordotic curve of the cervical spine to be maintained and ensures that the upper portion of the thoracic spine is properly supported. Over the neck a foam bridge is formed to hold the jaw firmly in place whether a person lays on his back or sides. The bridge keeps the mandible from opening during sleep prohibiting mouth-breathing and snoring. Both the pillow and the bridge are made of flexible foam that is flexible enough to allow the neck to pass through the opening in the bridge. The bridge is position to keep the mouth closed and the airway open ensuring no snoring. |
| US09808366B2 |
Stent delivery device
A delivery device and method for use, the delivery device including a stent device, a restraining sheath, and a pull member. The restraining sheath is mounted coaxially over the stent device for maintaining the stent device in a delivery configuration, and may include a line of weakness extending axially. The pull member is to be pulled so as to split the restraining sheath at the line of weakness and withdraw the restraining sheath from over the stent device. The pull member and the line of weakness may be located on opposing sides of the restraining sheath. The pull member may have an inner part extending inside of the restraining sheath, an outer part extending outside of the restraining sheath, and a wraparound portion there between for wrapping around an axial end of the restraining sheath to radially capture the restraining sheath between the inner and outer parts. |
| US09808364B2 |
Systems and methods for maintaining perfusion of branch vessels
An endoluminal prosthesis comprises a graft having a tubular body comprising proximal and distal ends, inner and outer surfaces, and partially and fully deployed states. A temporary channel is disposed external to the outer surface of the graft in the partially deployed state. The temporary channel begins at one of the proximal and distal ends of the graft, and extends along only a portion of a longitudinal length of the graft. The temporary channel is removed when the graft is in a fully deployed state. |
| US09808360B2 |
Composite stent graft
A composite stent graft has a balloon expandable stent portion (3), a tubular graft material portion (1) inside or outside of the balloon expandable stent portion and self expanding stents (5) associated with the tubular graft material portion. Part (7) of the balloon expandable stent portion can extend beyond the proximal end (9) of the tubular graft material portion. The tubular graft material can be polytetrafluoroethylene, dacron, polyamide, sub intestinal mucosa or any other suitable biocompatible material. A method of deploying which includes flaring a part (7) of the balloon expandable stent portion is also discussed. |
| US09808359B2 |
Treatment systems processes and devices addressing cerebral vasospasm/vasoconstriction
Endovascular treatment of, for example, delayed cerebral vasospasm involves the placing of a microcatheter in the affected vessels followed by the teachings of the instant disclosure, which is clinically improved with comparison to slow infusion of a vasodilating compound. Systems, processes and self-expanding designed stents and stent-like members are featured and highlighted. The stents and stent-like members being retrieved, nothing is left in the vessel. Drug-eluting stents, resorbable stents and angiographically imagable coatings, including tantalum brushes over part or all of subject system components are also disclosed. |
| US09808358B2 |
Artificial foot and method for controlling the movement thereof
An artificial foot having a longitudinal axis extending from a heel area to a toe area, a length, a width and a height is provided. The artificial foot includes a connection to a lower leg part, an upper supporting structure in the direction of height, an elastic sole structure extending from the heel area to the toe area, an elastic connecting element arranged between the upper supporting structure and the sole structure, and a coupling system. The upper supporting structure is connected to the sole structure approximately in a middle of the foot with respect to its length by means of the coupling system. The coupling system allows a relative tilting motion between the upper supporting structure and the sole structure while keeping a distance between the upper supporting structure and the sole structure in a middle of the coupling system constant, at least while a patient places weight on it when standing. |
| US09808356B2 |
Knee balancing devices, systems and methods
Devices, systems and methods are provided for facilitating knee balancing during a knee replacement surgery. A system can include a force sensor, a main body, a moveable sensor platform, and an adjustment mechanism. The force sensor can sense one or more forces applied within a knee joint, including forces applied on a medial side and a lateral side. The movable sensor platform can be coupled between the force sensor and the main body. The adjustment mechanism can adjust the moveable sensor platform, relative to the main body, thereby adjusting a collective height of the system. A method can include inserting portions of a knee balancing system into a gap formed between a cut distal end of a femur and a cut proximal end of a tibia, adjusting an adjustable mechanism of the system to increase or decrease a collective system height, and sensing and displaying the medial and lateral forces. |
| US09808354B2 |
Implant insertion tool
A tool for inserting a spinal implant is disclosed. The tool includes a tube with a handle end, an inserter end having an opening, and a curved portion located between the handle end and the inserter end. A driveshaft with an actuator extends within the tube so that the actuator is proximate to the opening. A knob is attached to the handle end and the driveshaft, wherein turning the knob rotates the actuator. Methods of utilizing the tool, as well as variations of the tool are also disclosed. |
| US09808346B2 |
Sacroiliac joint immobilization
Improved tools and procedures relate to the immobilization of the sacroiliac joint for the treatment of pain associated with the joint. Kits comprise, for example, a guide element and an immobilization element of a biocompatible material with a size and shape suitable for placement within the sacroiliac joint. Suitable immobilization elements include, for example, pins, nails, screws, darts, wedges, shims and hardening material. A bioactive agent can be delivered into the joint to compliment the immobilization and promote healing. Suitable procedures can be done in a less invasive procedure through a cannula or the like. |
| US09808338B2 |
Soft filled prosthesis shell with variable texture
A soft prosthetic implant, such as a silicone breast implant, is provided. The implant has a variety of different surfaces, for example, different textures, located on different areas of the outer surface of the implant. |
| US09808337B2 |
Composite interference screws and drivers
The present disclosure relates to a delivery device and screw combination. The combination includes a delivery device comprising a handle and a shall coupled to the handle, the shaft including a proximal end, a distal end, a non-circular cannulation, and markings along a length of the shaft; an interference screw coupled to the delivery device comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the screw including threads extending in an open helical form from the proximal end to the distal end, a suture bridge located at a distal end of the screw and housed within a slot of the delivery device shaft, and a plurality of runners extending longitudinally along an interior of the screw, the runners housed within grooves of the delivery device shaft; and a suture disposed around the suture bridge, ends of the suture extending through the cannulation of the delivery device shaft. |
| US09808332B2 |
Dynamic microvalve protection device
An apparatus includes a delivery catheter having a deployable dynamic valve that dynamically opens and closes in response to relative fluid pressure thereabout, particularly while in an anatomical lumen. The valve is maintained in a collapsed configuration during introduction to a treatment site. The valve is adapted to automatically move from the collapsed configuration to a deployed configuration at the treatment site. |
| US09808330B2 |
Bodily implant with tension indicator
A bodily implant is provided to support body tissues of a patient. The bodily implant includes a strip having a first portion and a second portion. The strip is configured to be stretched in a manner such that the second portion is stretched from a first length to a second length. The second portion of the strip is configured to maintain the second length. The strip is further configured to be disposed proximate to the patient's body tissues. |
| US09808328B2 |
Poultry carriers and methods of restraining poultry
Bird carriers and methods of restraining birds are disclosed. Each bird carrier may include a torso support, one or more leg clamps, and a head support. The head support may further include a beak receiving passage such that at least a portion of the birds' beaks are exposed. The bird carriers may restrain one or both legs and heads of the birds while supporting their torsos. Restraining the legs and the heads of the birds while supporting their torsos may produce a calming effect such that the birds exhibit significantly reduced struggling in an attempt to free themselves from the carrier. |
| US09808326B2 |
3D dentofacial system and method
A reference standard or reference system for dental feature location and orientation can include evaluating the facial appearance of one or more subjects based on aesthetic criteria and selecting a subset of subjects. The reference standard further includes constructing 3D representations, (e.g., a 3D virtual model), of the facial and dental features of the subset of subjects, from photographs of the face and mouth of each subject and determining the location and/or orientation of one or more dental features for each subject. The location and/or orientation values for each subject can be used to produce an average value and a standard deviation that forms the basis for a reference standard as part of reference system for evaluating patients. The method and system further includes constructing 3D representations (e.g., a 3D virtual model) of the facial and dental features of a patient from photographs of the face and mouth of the patient and determining the location and/or orientation of one or more dental features of the patient in order to compare them to the reference standard and develop a treatment plan for the subject based on differences between the patient's measurements and reference standard. The reference standard can use the pupils (e.g., in the natural head position orientation) as a landmark for registration and scaling of the reference standard to the patient under evaluation. |
| US09808317B2 |
Pneumatic system for deployment of articulating arms for an access port
A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity is adapted to articulate instruments inserted therein. The surgical apparatus includes an anchor member configured to form a sealing relation with a tissue, a balloon member and a plurality of articulating arms extending distally from the anchor member. Inflating and/or deflating the balloon member effectuate articulation of the articulating arms. |
| US09808314B2 |
Fat reducing device and method utilizing optical emitters
A fat reducing device and method utilizing optical emitters includes an array housing a plurality of optical emitters which are positioned to produce an optical output directed to a recipient, and a controller for instructing an operation of the array. The optical output being generated by a plurality of LED's cumulatively producing red light at approximately 635 nm, and at approximately 40,000 Lux, measurable at the array. The method includes reducing the lipid content of subcutaneous adipocytes using the optical emitting device, by delivering red light at approximately 313.6 Lux at a wavelength of approximately 635 nm for between 1 and 8 minutes, resulting in a total delivery of 2.88 Joules to the subcutaneous adipocytes of the target area of the recipient. |
| US09808310B2 |
Method and device for uterine fibroid treatment
Methods and devices for both imaging and treating uterine fibroid tumors in one real-time system are provided. One minimally invasive method comprises introducing a sheath into a uterus and determining a location of a fibroid using a visualization element within or on the sheath. Upon identification, a portion of the sheath is steered to position at least one treatment needle at the determined location. The needle is then anchored in uterine tissue and the fibroid treated with the needle. |
| US09808309B2 |
Electrocautery instrument for endoscopic therapy
An electrocautery instrument for endoscopic therapy includes an operation handle and a rotatable positioning means. The operation handle includes a cylindrical member, a fastening element, and a fixing protruding element. The fastening element and the fixing protruding element are disposed on the cylindrical member which further has a first inner hole. The rotatable positioning means encloses the cylindrical member and includes a rotatable element, a second inner hole, a clasping member, and securing units. The clasping member is disposed on a side wall of the second inner hole and engages with the fastening element. The rotatable element is provided for rotating the rotatable positioning means, so that the fixing protruding element can be positioned on any corresponding securing unit. Therefore, an electrocautery rod can be connectedly moved with the operation handle, thereby reducing components of the electrocautery instrument, and thus the cost is reduced greatly. |
| US09808301B2 |
Method and apparatus for inflating and deflating balloon catheters
A system and method for controlling the inflation, ablation, and deflation of a balloon catheter. The system includes a balloon catheter, a console, a pressurized gas or liquid inflation source, and an umbilical system to deliver pressurized coolant to the balloon catheter. The system may include controller that monitors the amount of pressure and volume within the balloon catheter. During inflation, the pressure and/or volume of fluid within the balloon is maintained at a target amount in order to provide sufficient mechanized pressure against the desired target region. The system limits the inflation pressure such that a safe quantity of gas would be released should a leak occur. If the amount falls below a certain threshold level, gas or fluid egress is presumed and the inflation process is halted. |
| US09808298B2 |
Open-architecture interference screw
The present disclosure relates to an interference screw for creating an interference fit between a bone tunnel and tissue. The screw includes a threaded body having a proximal end, distal end, and thread extending around the threaded body between the proximal and distal ends. A supporting spline extends along a cannulation through the threaded body. The supporting spline is engagable with a delivery device. The screw further includes at least one opening defined by a surface between threads of the threaded body. A ratio of open surface area to closed surface area defines the opening and is selected such that, when torsionally loaded, the screw does not exhibit plastic deformation when inserted into an undersized bone tunnel. The screw further includes a tapered tip extending from the distal end of the threaded body. The tapered tip has a thread extending at least partway around the tapered tip. |
| US09808296B2 |
Hammertoe implant and instrument
A bone implant comprising an elongate body having a first end and a second end coupled by a shaft is disclosed. The first portion is configured to couple to a first bone. The second portion comprises a first expandable section comprising at least one expandable feature. The first expandable section is configured to be received within a reverse countersink in a second bone in a collapsed state and to expand within the reverse countersink. The expandable feature couples to a bearing surface of the reverse countersink. A surgical tool comprising a shaft and at least one expandable cutting edge is disclosed. The shaft is sized and configured to be received within a canal formed in a bone. The expandable cutting edge is formed integrally with the shaft. The expandable cutting edge is configured to expand from a collapsed position to an expanded position for forming a reverse countersink. |
| US09808293B2 |
Orthopedic clamp and extension rod
Spinal implants and methods of extending pre-existing spinal implant constructs. An extension clamp may be connected to an original spinal implant including an elongated rod attached to a portion of the spine without removal of the original spinal implant. The extension clamp may include a yoke and an extension rod extending from the yoke. The yoke may include a first end and a second end, the first end having first and second rod engaging portions and a channel between the first and second rod engaging portions for encompassing a fastener, and the second end being spaced apart from the first end. The first and second rod engaging portions may be configured and dimensioned to secure the extension clamp to the elongated rod. |
| US09808292B2 |
Cannulated polyaxial screw
A polyaxial bone screw having a bone implantable shank, a head and a retaining ring. The retaining ring includes an outer partial hemispherical surface and an inner bore with radially extending channels and partial capture recesses. The shank includes a bone implantable body with an external helical wound thread and an upwardly extending capture structure. The capture structure includes at least one spline which extends radially outward and has a wedged surface that faces radially outward therefrom. The capture structure operably passes through a central bore of the retaining ring while the spline passes through a suitably shaped channel so that the spline becomes positioned above the head at which time the shank is rotated appropriately and the shank is drawn back downwardly so that the spline engages and seats in the capture recess. The head includes an internal cavity having a spherical shaped surface that mates with the ring surface and has a lower restrictive neck that prevents passage of the ring once the ring is seated in the cavity. |
| US09808286B2 |
Device for the repeated piercing of an organic tissue, an application module and a method thereof
A device for repeated piercing of an organic tissue and method thereof are disclosed. The device may comprise an arrangement of application tools each of which is connected to an operating mechanism and has a distal tool end which is formed for at least one application tool with a penetration device, whereby by way of the operating mechanism the tools can be displaced relative to each other between an initial position and a penetration position. During the relative movement, the effect direction of an application force provided by at least one application tool is counter to the effect direction of the application force provided by the other application tool. A mechanical actuation device, which is connected to the operating mechanism, is suitable for repeatedly effecting the relative displacement of the at least one application tool between the initial position and the penetration with an operating frequency. |
| US09808283B2 |
Apparatus and methods for cutting an atrial wall
A method includes coupling, at least temporarily, a support member adjacent to a target tissue. The support member is configured to support the target tissue and to define a path along which a cutting device can move. The method includes moving the cutting device along the path defined by the support member to cut and/or dilate the target tissue. In some embodiments, the method optionally includes disposing a cannula of a device within the cut defined in target tissue. The cannula is coupled to the target tissue such that a lumen defined by the cannula is in fluid communication with a volume defined at least in part by the target tissue. |
| US09808282B2 |
Surgical cannula system and method of use
Various methods and devices are provided for use of a cannula. For example, provided herein is a flexible cannula having an elongate body with an elongate shaft extending between a proximal hub and a distal dam. A lumen can extend through the cannula. The dam is in the form of a flexible annular member formed on a distal end of the shaft. The dam and the hub have diameters greater than a diameter of the shaft. A flexible, expandable sleeve is removably positioned on the distal end of the shaft of the cannula. The sleeve deformably encapsulates the dam such that the dam is folded against the shaft of the cannula. An obturator is also provided having an elongate shaft configured to be removably positioned within the lumen of the cannula. The shaft can be configured to fit within the lumen in a clearance fit. |
| US09808280B2 |
Diaphragm entry for posterior surgical access
Methods and devices described herein facilitate improved treatment of body organs. More specifically, devices and methods described herein are for minimally invasive surgery permit improved diaphragmatic access to a body cavity to perform a surgical procedure, for example ablation and/or coagulation of cardiac tissue during minimally invasive surgical access to the heart. The diaphragmatic access described provides direct visualization of anatomic structures within the thoracic cavity such as the posterior left atrium, the posterior side of pulmonary veins, or any other such anatomic structure. |
| US09808273B2 |
Cutting apparatus of a cutting system using a robot
The present invention aims to provide a cutting apparatus of a cutting system using a robot for reducing the damage and interference of a bone, a muscle and a surrounding soft tissue on operating and improving durability by minimizing the diameter of the sleeve while improving the rigidity against the bending and not generating the chattering of the shaft. |
| US09808267B2 |
Tissue resection device and related methods of use
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a medical device including, among other things, an elongated member having a proximal end, a distal end, and at least one channel. A distal portion of the at least one channel may be displaced relative to a longitudinal axis of the elongated. |
| US09808265B2 |
System for accurate guide wire positioning
The present invention provides system for accurate guide wire positioning. The said system comprises Jigs with series of holes at different angle. Guide wire can be positioned at different version with or without change in angle depending on the position of guide wire. Also, jig provides flexibility of change in version with or without change of entry point of insertion of guide wire in bone. Also, system comprises external drive which superimposes grid guide of parallel lines or line extensions on the image of guide wire. This drive also projects the future position of the said wire guide. From the projection, if correction is required in the guide wire positioning then it can be changed with the help of said jig. |
| US09808260B2 |
Noninvasive protection from emboli
A system for diverting emboli within a patient can include a device that detects a presence of emboli in a first blood vessel of a patient. A compression member can be aligned with a second blood vessel of the patient when a collar supporting the compression member is positioned at least partially around a portion of the patient. In response to the detection device, a controller can actuate the compression member, when the presence of emboli is detected, from an unactuated state to an actuated state in which at least a portion of the compression member (i) is closer to the second blood vessel than while in the unactuated state and (ii) compresses and limits blood flow through the second blood vessel. |
| US09808256B2 |
Electrolytic detachment elements for implant delivery systems
Detachment of a medical device from a delivery assembly can focus activity of electrolytic detachment to enhance detachment procedures. Electrolytic activity can be focused by insulating nearby areas of a core wire and pre-treating a detachment zone to reduce crystallinity of the detachment zone. Such a delivery system, can include an electrolytically corrodible core wire comprising a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a detachment zone between the proximal portion and the distal portion; a proximal insulating layer annularly contacting the proximal portion; a coil helically winding about and contacting at least a portion of the proximal insulating layer; a tube annularly contacting at least a portion of the helical coil; a distal insulating layer annularly contacting the distal portion; and a hub of an implant annularly contacting at least a portion of the distal insulating layer; wherein a distal end of the proximal insulating layer and a proximal end of the distal insulating layer are axially spaced apart to expose the detachment zone. |
| US09808254B2 |
Selective aortic balloon occlusion device, methods of use, and uses thereof
A selective aortic balloon device includes a catheter comprising an open distal end configured to be inserted into a body cavity or vessel, and a plurality of adjustable port regions with inflatable balloons between adjacent adjustable port regions. Each adjustable port region is configured to move between a closed position and an open position to selectively allow fluid flow to enter the catheter through the open distal end and to exit the catheter through one or more of the plurality of adjustable port regions depending on an inflation pattern of the inflatable balloons. |
| US09808251B2 |
Tissue resection devices and related methods
A medical device is disclosed which includes a delivery member having at least two lumens extending within. Each lumen may include a rotational element within. Each rotational element may be configured to convert linear motion into rotational motion. The medical device may also include a snare element including a distal snare loop and two proximally extending legs. Each leg of the snare element may be within one of the two lumens. Further, the rotational element in a first lumen may be configured to impart a clock-wise rotation to a first leg of the two proximally extending legs, while the rotational element in a second lumen of the at least two lumens may be configured to impart a counter clock-wise rotation to a second leg of the two proximally extending legs. |
| US09808250B2 |
Systems and methods for attaching a prosthesis within a body lumen or hollow organ
Systems and methods introduce and deploy prosthesis into a blood vessel or hollow body organ by intra-vascular access. The prosthesis is secured in place by fasteners which are implanted by an applier that is also deployed by intra-vascular access. The applier is configured to permit controlled, selective release of the fastener in a step that is independent of the step of implantation. |
| US09808248B2 |
Installation features for surgical instrument end effector cartridge
A surgical instrument comprises a body, a shaft, and an end effector. The end effector has a staple cartridge, a lower jaw, an anvil, and a firing beam. The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body and a lower cartridge tray. One or both of the cartridge body or the lower cartridge tray comprises at least one notch. The lower jaw is configured to be coupled with the cartridge body and comprises protrusions. The protrusions of the lower jaw align with the notches of the cartridge body and/or lower cartridge tray when the lower jaw and staple cartridge are coupled. The body comprises a handle portion and a series of actuators capable of closing the anvil on the staple cartridge and driving the firing beam to vertically drive a plurality of staples. |
| US09808245B2 |
Coupling assembly for interconnecting an adapter assembly and a surgical device, and surgical systems thereof
A coupling assembly selectively interconnects a surgical device with an adapter assembly. The adapter assembly is configured for connection with a surgical attachment. The coupling assembly includes a first connector, a second connector and an outer tube. The first connector is configured for mating engagement with a surgical device. The second connector is configured for mating engagement with an adapter assembly. The outer tube extends between and has a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis therebetween. The first end of the outer tube supports the first connector. The second end of the outer tube supports the second connector. The longitudinal axis of the outer tube extends transversely relative to a longitudinal axis defined by a surgical device. |
| US09808234B2 |
Suture thread
A suture thread is used to perform suturing without tying part of or the whole of knots that are supposed to be tied during suturing. A suture thread support body prevents an end of the suture thread from being pulled into a suturing site. A needle accommodation body has a shape of a tube having a through-hole through both ends. The suture thread has the suture thread support body and the needle accommodation body. |
| US09808233B2 |
Methods, systems, and devices for the treatment of stenosis
Catheter system, devices and methods for diagnosing and treating lateral stenosis causing back pain and or leg pain. The devices comprise a tubular part for insertion into a working cannula to self-position itself safely within the foramen, and minimize the risk of displacement medially or laterally, to prevent nerve or dura injury. An expandable membrane is configured to maintain the catheter device within the foramen. Expansion of this membrane would decompress the nerve within the foramen by opening the foraminal canal as the membrane expands. |
| US09808232B2 |
Dilation system
A dilation system for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures. In one version, the dilation system includes a plurality of open sided dilators having non-circular cross sections and configured to slidably and non-rotationally engage with one another in a sequential manner. In another version, the dilation system includes an expandable dilator movable from a closed condition to an expanded condition. |
| US09808224B2 |
Method and systems for a removable transducer with memory of an automated breast ultrasound system
Various methods and systems are provided for a removable transducer module having memory. In one example, a transducer module for an ultrasound imaging system comprises a casing configured to fit into a module receiver of the ultrasound imaging system, an array of transducer elements, and a non-transitory memory configured to store at least one of usage data and specification data for the transducer module. |
| US09808221B2 |
Ultrasonic intracavity probe for 3D imaging
An intracavity ultrasound probe includes a pivotally mounted array transducer which is oscillated to scan a volumetric region from within the body. The transducer is oscillated by a motor located in the probe handle. The array transducer is immersed in a liquid which acoustically couples ultrasonic energy between the elements of the transducer and the body. The acoustic coupling liquid is located in the distal tip of the probe shaft, where only 6 cc of liquid is required. The small amount of liquid reduces the weight of the shaft of the probe so that the center of gravity of the probe is in the handle, making the probe comfortable and easy to manipulate. The majority of parts in the probe shaft are made of aluminum or other low density materials, keeping the overall weight of the probe to about 250 grams. |
| US09808212B2 |
Medical couch apparatus
Medical couch apparatus is provided capable of reducing the overrun amount even if the overrun occurs while shortening the stop distance when the top is urgently stopped to make it difficult for the overrun to occur. The frame is arranged between the couch body and the top to be guided in the rostrocaudal direction of the subject by the couch body. The driving unit transfers the top in the rostrocaudal direction via the frame. The guide unit is arranged between the frame and the top to guide the top in the rostrocaudal direction. The biasing mechanism biases the top in the opposite direction of the transfer direction of the top. The bias control unit applies the force to the top to be transferred in the opposite direction for the frame through the biasing force by the biasing mechanism when the transfer of the top by the driving unit is stopped. |
| US09808210B2 |
Photon counting type X-ray computed tomography apparatus and data transfer method for the same
A photon counting type X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes an X-ray tube, a detector, a raw data generating section, an information compression section, and a data transmission section. The X-ray tube is configured to irradiate an X-ray. The detector is configured to count photons derived from the irradiated X-ray. The raw data generating section is configured to collect results of counting performed by the detector and to generate, from the results of counting, raw data for each of a plurality of energy bands. The information compression section is configured to compare values of the raw data between the raw data generated respectively for the energy bands, and to perform information compression of each of the raw data. The data transmission section is configured to transmit the raw data compressed by the information compression. |
| US09808203B2 |
Method for motion correction of emission computed tomography data by way of magnetic resonance tomography data
A method includes introducing the examination object into an examination region of a combination device; recording emission computed tomography data over a measurement period and storing detection events and detection instants associated therewith; measuring magnetic resonance data of at least two subregions of the examination region at at least two instants during the recording period of the emission computed tomography data and storing the magnetic resonance data and the recording instants; determining motion information describing a motion of a region of the examination object at a first instant relative to the position at a second instant from the magnetic resonance data recorded at the first instant and the second instant, for each subregion; determining a motion model describing motion of the examination object, for the entire object, from information for the subregions; and calculating motion-corrected emission tomography data from detection events, detection instants and the motion model. |
| US09808201B2 |
Sensors for prosthetic heart devices
Prosthetic heart devices may be implanted into the heart with a sensor coupled to the device, the sensor being configured to measure physiological data, such as blood pressure, in the heart. Devices that may employ such sensors include prosthetic heart valves and occlusion devices, although sensor systems may be deployed in the heart separate from other implantable devices. The sensors may include a body with different configurations for attaching to the implantable device, such as apertures for sutures or fingers for connecting to structures of the implantable device. The sensors may provide data that allow a determination of aortic regurgitation or other information indicative of function of the implantable device and patient health during and after implantation of the device. |
| US09808200B2 |
Medical imaging apparatus and method
A medical device is used to image a body cavity using a plurality of axially and angularly spaced imaging sensors. Each imaging sensor generates an image that is distinct from one another due to distinct fields of vision. Each image includes an overlapping zone with commonalties that are used to extrapolate a greater calibrated image. |
| US09808199B2 |
Two part EEG monitor with databus and method of communicating between the parts
A personal wearable EEG monitor comprises a base part (1) having signal processing means (23), and an electrode part (2) with at least two electrodes (11, 12) for measuring an EEG signal of a person. The electrode part (2) comprises means for converting the EEG signal into a digital signal. The EEG monitor comprises a databus for transferring data between the base part (1) and the electrode part (2) and for providing power from one part to the other. The databus is adapted for application of two electrical wires. The invention further provides a method for communicating between two parts of an EEG monitor. |
| US09808197B2 |
Electronic apparatus and control method
According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic apparatus detects movement of a human body wearing the apparatus. The apparatus causes a first number of light emitters to emit light when a magnitude of the detected movement is less than a first value. The first number of light emitters is among a plurality of light emitters which emit light having different wavelengths, in which the light are received by a light receiver to obtain physiological information. The apparatus causes a second number greater than the first number of light emitters among the plurality of light emitters to emit light when the magnitude of the detected movement is greater than or equal to the first value. |
| US09808191B2 |
Application of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in sensor systems, devices, and related methods
A diagnostic Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) procedure is applied to measure values of impedance-related parameters for one or more sensing electrodes. The parameters may include real impedance, imaginary impedance, impedance magnitude, and/or phase angle. The measured values of the impedance-related parameters are then used in performing sensor diagnostics, calculating a highly-reliable fused sensor glucose value based on signals from a plurality of redundant sensing electrodes, calibrating sensors, detecting interferents within close proximity of one or more sensing electrodes, and testing surface area characteristics of electroplated electrodes. Advantageously, impedance-related parameters can be defined that are substantially glucose-independent over specific ranges of frequencies. An Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) enables implementation of the EIS-based diagnostics, fusion algorithms, and other processes based on measurement of EIS-based parameters. |
| US09808189B2 |
Concentration-measurement device and concentration-measurement method
A concentration measurement apparatus measures a temporal relative change amount (ΔcHb, ΔO2Hb) of either or both of total hemoglobin concentration and oxygenated hemoglobin concentration in the head that vary due to repetition of chest compression, and includes a light incidence section making measurement light incident on the head, a light detection section detecting the measurement light propagated through the interior of the head and generating a detection signal in accordance with the intensity of the measurement light, and a CPU determining, based on the detection signal, the relative change amount (ΔcHb, ΔO2Hb) and performing a filtering process of removing frequency components less than a predetermined frequency from frequency components contained in the relative change amount (ΔcHb, ΔO2Hb). |
| US09808186B2 |
Method and system for providing an integrated analyte sensor insertion device and data processing unit
Method and apparatus for providing an integrated analyte sensor and data processing unit assembly is provided. |
| US09808180B2 |
Devices and methods for catheter localization
A medical device can be localized by providing at least three non-colinear localization elements (e.g., electrodes) thereon. Once placed in a non-ionizing localization field, three adjacent localization elements, at least one of which will typically be a spot electrode, may be selected, and the non-ionizing localization field may be used to measure their locations. A cylinder is defined to fit the measured locations of the selected localization elements. The cylinder is rotationally oriented using the measured location of a spot electrode. Location and rotational attitude information may be used to construct a three-dimensional representation of the medical device within the localization field. The electrodes may be provided on the medical device or on a sheath into which the medical device is inserted. The invention also provides systems and methods for identifying and calibrating deflection planes where the medical device and/or sheath are deflectable. |
| US09808178B2 |
Tracking system using field mapping
In some aspects, a method includes (i) securing multiple sets of current injecting electrodes to an organ in a patient's body, (ii) causing current to flow among the multiple sets of current injecting electrodes to generate a field in the organ, (iii) in response to current flow caused by the multiple sets of current injecting electrodes, measuring the field at each of one or more additional electrodes, (iv) determining expected signal measurements of the field inside the organ using a pre-determined model of the field, and (v) determining a position of each of the one or more additional electrodes in the organ based on the measurements made by the additional electrodes and the determined expected signal measurements of the field. |
| US09808177B2 |
Systems and methods for automated voxelation of regions of interest for magnetic resonance spectroscopy
A system and method for automating an appropriate voxel prescription in a uniquely definable region of interest (ROI) in a tissue of a patient is provided, such as for purpose of conducting magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in the ROI. The dimensions and coordinates of a single three dimensional rectilinear volume (voxel) within a single region of interest (ROI) are automatically identified. This is done, in some embodiments by: (1) applying statistically identified ROI search areas within a field of view (FOV); (2) image processing an MRI image to smooth the background and enhance a particular structure useful to define the ROI; (3) identifying a population of pixels that define the particular structure; (4) performing a statistical analysis of the pixel population to fit a 2D model such as an ellipsoid to the population and subsequently fit a rectilinear shape within the model; (5) repetiting elements (1) through (4) using multiple images that encompass the 3D ROI to create a 3D rectilinear shape; (6) a repetition of elements (1) through (5) for multiple ROIs with a common FOV. A manual interface may also be provided, allowing for override to replace by manual prescription, assistance to identify structures (e.g. clicking on disc levels), or modifying the automated voxel (e.g. modify location, shape, or one or more dimensions). |
| US09808174B2 |
Magnetic-resonance imaging diagnosis apparatus and magnetic-resonance imaging method
Upon detecting a body-motion before starting a main-imaging, a sequence-switching control-unit controls operation so as to switch from a usual-imaging sequence to a body-motion adaptive-sequence corresponding to an imaging-portion of a subject P by referring to a body-motion adaptive-sequence storage-unit. Moreover, upon detecting a body-motion during the main-imaging according to the usual-imaging sequence, the sequence-switching control-unit refers to a collected-data storage-unit, and controls operation so as to perform a retake by switching to the body-motion adaptive-sequence if an already-collected data-volume is less than a predetermined volume. By contrast, if the already-collected data-volume is equal to or more than the predetermined volume at a time of detecting a body-motion during the main-imaging, the sequence-switching control-unit stops the main-imaging, and controls a data-processing unit so as to reconstruct a magnetic resonance image only with collected data. |
| US09808170B2 |
Electrode with charge-operated indicator
An electrode includes separate first and second electrical contacts to contact the skin of a subject. A charge-holding structure is electrically connected between the first and second contacts. An indicator is operatively coupled to the charge-holding structure so that the indicator changes visibly in response to a change in the charge stored in the charge-holding structure. The electrode can include a rectifier across the contacts. A container for electrodes includes an electrical supply and a plurality of receptacles for electrodes so that a voltage difference is maintained across conductors of each receptacle (and contacts of an electrode therein) for at least one week. A method of making electrodes includes arranging the contacts over a support, connecting the charge-holding structure between them, arranging the indicator over the support, and charging the charge-holding structure so that the indicator has a first visual appearance. |
| US09808169B2 |
System for electroencephalographic detection of an inadequacy between the state of a patient placed under ventilatory support and the setting of the machine used for this support, and use of this detection to adjust the setting
The invention relates to a system for electroencephalographic detection of an improper adjustment of a ventilator used on a mammal. The system includes an electroencephalograph, capable of measuring, as a function of time, an electroencephalographic signal representative of a breathing process; and an input for receiving a respiratory initiation signal, different from the electroencephalographic signal, capable of indicating a respiratory initiation time. The detection system further includes means for specifying a beta frequency band comprised between 15 and 30 Hz and with a width comprising between 5 and 10 Hz; means for processing the measured electroencephalographic signal, configured for processing the measured electroencephalographic signal as it is being acquired, in the sole specified beta frequency band; and means for identifying, for each breathing cycle, an improper adjustment of the ventilator from the electroencephalographic signals processed in the sole beta frequency band. |
| US09808168B2 |
Method and system for non-invasive measurement of cardiac parameters
A method and system are presented for use in assessment of at least one cardiac parameter of an individual. An electrodes arrangement is applied to an individual's body, for applying an electrical field to the body and providing an electrical output indicative of a systolic impedance change and of a velocity of said change during a cardiac cycle. Also provided is additional data indicative of at least of the following conditions of the individual: a value of total peripheral resistance (TPR), a value of cardiac index (CI), and existence of the AHF condition. Data corresponding to these condition is analyzed to determine whether the TPR satisfies a first predetermined condition and/or the CI satisfies a predetermined second condition and/or whether the acute heart failure (AHF) condition is identified, to thereby use the data indicative of the measured electrical output and selectively calculate said at least one cardiac parameter based on either the systolic impedance change data or on said data of the velocity of the impedance change. |
| US09808166B2 |
Pulse photometry probe
A pulse photometry probe includes: a light emitter having a first face from which light is emitted toward a living body; a light receiver having a second face which receives the light from the living body; a surface sheet which faces the first face of the light emitter and the second face of the light receiver; a cover sheet in which at least one slit is formed; and a lead wire which includes: a first lead wire connected to one of the light emitter and the light receiver; a second lead wire connected to the other one of the light emitter and the light receiver; and a basal portion at which the first lead wire and the second lead wire are bundled. The second lead wire includes at least one slack portion between the basal portion and the other one of the light emitter and the light receiver. |
| US09808164B2 |
Evaluation of cardiac dyssynchrony based on chest wall motion and electrical cardiac activity
Cardiac dyssynchrony of a patient may be evaluated based on electrical activity of a heart of the patient and corresponding chest wall motion of the patient sensed via an external accelerometer. In one example, an acceleration signal indicative of the chest wall motion is generated by an external accelerometer positioned on the chest wall of the patient. A processor of a diagnostic device integrates the acceleration signal to generate a velocity signal and temporally correlates the velocity signal and an electrical cardiac signal. The processor determines a time delay between a deflection of the electrical cardiac signal indicating ventricular electrical activation and a subsequent greatest peak of the velocity signal. The time delay may indicate a degree of electromechanical delay of the left ventricle. In some examples, the processor generates an output indicative of a cardiac dyssynchrony status based on the time delay. |
| US09808163B2 |
Method and apparatus for heart rate monitoring
A method and apparatus for monitoring heart rate. The method includes receiving a digital heart monitoring signal, determining the integrity of said signal with a “hand detect” signal that confirms electrical connection to the subject, dividing the digital heart monitoring signal into at least one frame, generating a folded correlation value for the center sample in the at least one frame, identify the number of peaks folded correlation values based on amplitude and distance parameters of the digital heart monitoring signal in the at least one frame, removing false peaks and collecting peaks corresponding to a length of time, determining the heart rate based on the identified peaks wherein the identified peaks relate to a minimum distance between valid heart beat peaks based on a heart rate estimate, computing the weighted average of heart rate value based on the number of previous heart rate values. |
| US09808156B2 |
Systems, computer medium and computer-implemented methods for monitoring and improving biomechanical health of employees
Provided are embodiments of systems, computer medium and computer-implemented methods for monitoring the health of an employee while the employee is located in an employee workstation. A method including collecting, from a plurality of biomechanical sensors disposed throughout the employee workstation, biomechanical health data indicative of biomechanical characteristics of the employee, determining an employee biomechanical health profile based at least in part on the collected biomechanical health data. The employee biomechanical health profile including biomechanical health characteristics, biomechanical health conditions and/or biomechanical health risks for the employee. The method including generating a health plan for the employee based at least in part on the biomechanical health profile, and displaying the employee biomechanical health profile and the health plan to the employee. |
| US09808154B2 |
Biometric identification via retina scanning with liveness detection
Various systems, processes, and techniques may be used to achieve biometric identification via retina scanning with liveness detection. In some implementations, systems, processes, and techniques may include the ability to scan a retina to acquire at least one retina image and analyze the image to identify retinal components. The systems, processes, and techniques may also include the ability to compute and compare the information about the identified retinal components with pre-stored information and determine whether the scanned retina is associated with the pre-stored information. The systems, processes, and techniques may further include the ability to determine whether the imaged retina is composed of live tissue. The security system may then perform a chain of actions based on the matching and live tissue results. |
| US09808153B1 |
Wavefront correction method for adaptive optics system
A method, controller, and medium to control an adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Receiving from the ophthalmoscope a plurality of wavefront elements. Each element may be associated with an area of a beam of light received from a fundus. Each element includes shape data. The shape data represents a shape of a wavefront in a area of the beam. Each element includes status data. The status data is a confidence indicator of ability of the shape data to represent the shape of the wavefront with a particular level of accuracy. Calculating control data based on the shape data in the wavefront data and local gain. The local gain includes local gain elements. Each local gain elements is adjusted based on status data. Using the control data to adjust a shape of an illumination wavefront of an illumination beam used to illuminate the fundus. |
| US09808152B2 |
Anterior ocular segment optical coherence tomographic imaging device and anterior ocular segment optical coherence tomographic imaging method
An anterior ocular segment optical coherence tomographic imaging device and an anterior ocular segment optical coherence tomographic imaging method that can accurately analyze the shape of a crystalline lens by identifying the boundary of each layer of the crystalline lens in a tomographic image of an anterior ocular segment of a subject's eye, which is taken by optical coherence tomography. A layer boundary detector calculates brightness gradients from brightness values in a tomographic image of an anterior ocular segment of a subject's eye, which is taken by optical coherence tomography, in a depth direction of the tomographic image from a cornea to a retina, detect edges b1, b2, b3, and b4 that are larger than a predetermined threshold, and identify a boundary of each layer of the crystalline lens L from positions of the edge b1, b2, b3, and b4. |
| US09808148B2 |
Spatial 3D sterioscopic intraoral camera system
Spatial 3D stereoscopic video is generated with a dual camera subassembly in a hand held device. The 3D Left-Right Multiplexed Spatial Stereoscopic video stream is wirelessly coupled to a processing system for simultaneous visualization comparison with intraoral cavity digital dental impression 3D CAD formatted files, Cone Beam Panoramic Computed Tomography images, Optical Coherence Tomography planar images and Panoramic X-ray image digital files for Stereoscopic visualization on stereoscopic displays and occluding viewing glasses. |
| US09808146B2 |
Endoscopic tool for debriding and removing polyps
An improved endoscopic tool easily and efficiently obtains samples of multiple polyps from a patient by debriding one or more polyps and retrieving the debrided polyps without having to alternate between using a separate cutting tool and a separate sample retrieving tool and may be used with an endoscope. |
| US09808144B2 |
Swing prism endoscope
A variable direction of view endoscope is positionable at desired locations within the ear, nose, throat, paranasal sinuses or cranium to accomplish visualization. A method of use includes introducing the variable direction of view endoscope into a nasal cavity with the endoscope adjusted to a first direction of view between about 0 degrees and about 15 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the endoscope. A therapeutic device is introduced into the nasal cavity and the endoscope is adjusted to a second direction of view directed toward the sinus opening or passageway. The method also includes advancing the therapeutic device into or through the sinus opening and viewing at least one of the sinus opening or passageway or the therapeutic device using the endoscope adjusted to the second direction of view. |
| US09808143B2 |
Optogenetic probe
An optogenetic probe, an optogenetic system, and a method for fabricating an optogenetic probe are provided. The optogenetic probe has a proximal and a distal end, and includes an elongated body made of a body glass material and extending longitudinally between the proximal and distal ends. The optogenetic probe also includes at least one optical channel, each including an optical channel glass material having a refractive index larger than a refractive index of the body glass material, so as to guide light therealong. The optogenetic probes also includes at least one electrical channel, each including an electrical channel structure having an electrical conductivity larger than the electrical conductivity of the body glass material, so as to conduct electricity therealong. The optogenetic probe further includes at least one fluidic channel, each adapted for transporting fluid therealong. Each optical, electrical and fluidic channel extends longitudinally within the elongated body. |
| US09808141B2 |
Endoscope
An endoscope includes an observation optical system that allows a magnified observation close to a subject, and illumination optical systems. In a close observation, ITM is a maximum brightness within an observation view field angle, and ITC is a center brightness. In a normal observation IWC is a center brightness, and IWS is a brightness at a position of 80% of a maximum view angle. The following is satisfied: 0.3 |
| US09808138B1 |
Rotary mop and a rotary structure of its mop handle
Described herein is a rotary mop and a rotary structure of a mop handle of the rotary mop. The rotary structure comprises a rotary cylinder of which the inner wall is provided with spiral grooves and a lifting rod penetrating through the rotary cylinder, wherein the lifting rod is provided with a unidirectional rotary one-way bearing, bulges matched with the spiral grooves are apart arranged outside the one-way bearing, when the lifting rod is pressed downwards, the one-way bearing stops rotation, and the bulges and the spiral grooves are mutually matched to drive the rotary cylinder to rotate; and when the lifting rod is pulled upwards, the one-way bearing idly rotates along the spiral grooves. The bottom of the rotary cylinder is provided with a bottom plate for sealing the rotary cylinder, and lubricating oil or lubricating grease is provided in the rotary cylinder. |
| US09808137B2 |
Floor treatment machine and method for treating floor surfaces
A floor treatment machine is disclosed for treating floor surfaces and includes a housing, two drive wheels, at least one support wheel, a drive device, a controller, at least one scan sensor configured to ensure that distance measurements can be carried out in a substantially horizontal plane via a predetermined angular area, and a floor treatment device configured to ensure that the floor can be treated. In at least one embodiment, the controller encompasses a treatment mode, which guarantees a simple and reliable selection of a successful route by way of few driving and storing steps. The boundary of the floor surface is treated as an obstacle. To record the treated surface, starting and end points of route segments, which have been followed, and one of the states “completely treated” or “incompletely treated” for the end points as well as direction information is stored. |
| US09808127B2 |
Modular bathroom structure
The various embodiments herein provide a modular shower seat connected to a wall structure comprising a mounting base component, a connecting elongated component and a primary functional component. The mounting base component is fixed against a wall structure through a holding medium. The mounting base component comprises a vertical base plate. The vertical base plate comprises a plurality of fastener holes and a plurality of vertical slots. The connecting elongated component is attached to the mounting base component through a plurality of fastening medium. The connecting elongated component comprises a pair of vertical bases. Each vertical base is orthogonally fixed to the vertical base plate by fitting the vertically opposite brackets into the vertically opposite slots of the vertical base plate. The primary functional component is fixed over the connecting elongated component. |
| US09808124B2 |
Membranous waterproof juncture
A waterproof juncture comprised of a water-impermeable membrane applied over at least the upper peripheral edge of a wallboard or shower pan sidewall and a portion of an adjacent wall-forming member which is coplanar with the wall studs, which in turn will form a waterproof covering over the seam between the upper peripheral edge of the wallboard or shower pan sidewall (or equivalent shower bench, shelf or ledge) and the adjacent wall-forming member. |
| US09808120B2 |
Coffee container with freshness indicator
A beverage server includes a removable lid with a display adapted to be viewed from a distance, the display equipped with LEDs that flash information to users with respect to a freshness and fluid level of a beverage in the server. |
| US09808119B1 |
Grill apparatus that raises and lowers coal grate to and away from food grill
A grill apparatus that raises and lowers a coal grate to and away from a food grill. The grill apparatus includes an oven having a bottom oven portion in the shape of an upright bowl, a top oven portion in the shape of an inverted bowl, and a middle portion in the shape of a cylinder. A cranking of a handle outside of the oven rotates a shaft running through the oven. The shaft spools up and spools out a tether engaged to the coal grate to draw a heat source on the coal grate to and away from food items on the food grill. |
| US09808118B2 |
Vertical cooking apparatus
A wire rack apparatus which fits on top of a shallow flat baking sheet pan and oven that supports a plurality of bacon slices vertically during roasting so that grease and fat and particular water within the body of bacon slices runs onto the shallow baking sheet pan. The bacon rack has a series of spaced upright wire mesh racks extending from a main support base rack. The upright wire mesh racks are positioned in elevated relation to a shallow baking sheet pan during cooking. The mesh racks are removably secured by U-shaped bend inserted slots to the main support base rack. Bacon slices are placed in the upright rack during roasting. |
| US09808115B2 |
Full-automatic tea-making machine
An automatic tea-making machine, comprising a base assembly and a tea-making assembly arranged on the base assembly. A water pump configured to pump water to the tea-making assembly and a motor are arranged on the base assembly. The tea-making assembly includes a tea-making cavity with an open top part, a closed bottom part and a closed peripheral wall; a tea basket driven by the motor, and a drain valve arranged at a bottom of the tea-making cavity and communicated with the tea-making cavity. The automatic tea-making machine of the present application can automatically wash tea and make tea, which is very convenient to use. |
| US09808114B1 |
Automated machine for producing multiple cups of coffee
A coffee maker efficiently automates the process of pour-over coffee brewing by employing a computer system that controls how and when hot water is dispensed into a coffee filter. The computer system controls a mechanism that pulls a nozzle back and forth along a linear track, and rotates the linear track. A user generally puts a coffee filter in place and then pushes a button on the computer system once to allow the system to wet the coffee filter. Then the user could put coffee grounds into the coffee filter and push the button again to allow the system to lightly wet the surface of the coffee grounds. The user could then place the coffee cup underneath the filter and push the button a third time to allow coffee to be slowly brewed as spirals of hot water are dispensed on the coffee grounds. |
| US09808113B2 |
Capsule based system for preparing and dispensing a beverage
A system and device that supplies an alternative to bottled water and other water based ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. The invention offers a convenient, reliable, and cost effective Point of Use solution to the consumer's hydration and beverage needs which includes a single-serve beverage system that can produce unlimited chilled filtered water as well as single serve unique beverages through a capsule-based system. The invention can provide cold, hot, still (not sparkling), flavored, enhanced, ultra purified filtered waters and flavors. The capsules contain a powder or a liquid which is mixed into the filtered water to produce the beverage. The drinks can be “house formulas” or common mass market branded beverages licensed from the manufacturers. The system opens a beverage capsule, sprays mixing fluid into it, rotates it, and then sprays finishing fluid into it which causes the contents to empty into a drinking cup. |
| US09808112B2 |
Device, system and method for preparing a beverage from a capsule
A system, device and method for preparing a beverage using a capsule. The capsule comprises a cup-shaped body, a lid and an actuating member. The device comprises a capsule holder, a fluid supply unit, and a flow control unit arranged for controlling a parameter of the fluid to be supplied to the capsule. The flow control unit is arranged for selectively operating in one of at least a first mode and a second mode. The flow control unit comprises a switching member movable between a first and second position, and arranged for being engaged by the actuating member of the capsule. The system is arranged such that the flow control unit is in the first mode when the switching member is in the first position, and such that the flow control unit is in the second mode when the switching member is in the second position. |
| US09808100B2 |
Cushions
A cushion including a pillow portion (2) useable for supporting the head of a user of the cushion and an elongate trunk (4) portion that extends away from the pillow portion (2) and which is usable for supporting the chin of the user. Wherein the pillow portion (2) is shaped so that it is useable to extend from at least a position on the back of the neck of a user whose head is being supported by the pillow portion (2) that is less than three centimeters from the mid-point of the back of the neck to at least a position where it contacts an ear of the user, and wherein in this use of the pillow portion (2) the trunk portion (4) extends away from the pillow portion (2) towards the chin of the user. |
| US09808092B2 |
Ergonomic-device support assembly for ergonomic device
An apparatus has an ergonomic-device support assembly including a stationary frame assembly configured to be received and selectively positioned underneath a desk relative to a user. The ergonomic-device support assembly is configured to receive and support an ergonomic device. This is done in such a way that the ergonomic device is selectively movable relative to the user of the desk between an extended-deployment position and a retracted-storage position. |
| US09808091B1 |
Chair with cell phone and accessory pouch
A cell phone and accessories pouch is attached or attachable an armrest of a chair. An closeable inboard pouch pocket has a transparent view panel for inboard-only visual access to pocket content due to an opaque outboard surface or outboard pocket. Items fall to the bottom of the inboard pocket in a first instance beneath the armrest due to a depending flap near the armrest. In another instance, depending flap wraps around the armrest, placing the stored cellphone atop the armrest and permitting both visual and through-panel tactile access to the cellphone. The size of the pouch is less than the size of the armrest. Pocket closures include zippers, buttons, snaps, hook and loop cloth or ziploc closures. Pouch mounts for removable attachment include snaps, buttons, toggle bars, screws, nuts and tongue-n-groove. The pouch may be permanently affixed to the chair. |
| US09808090B2 |
Footrest device for armchairs or sofas
A footrest device for armchairs or sofas has two footrest panels, which have substantially the same width, and are movable under the thrust of a crank mechanism between an extracted operating position, in which the two footrest panels project from the front of a support frame, and a retracted rest position, in which the two footrest panels substantially overlap one another. |
| US09808084B2 |
Technique for adjusting the posture of a seated person
A posture adjustment system includes a set of sensors coupled to a chair on which a person may sit. The posture adjustment system gathers data from the set of sensors and generates a posture model that reflects a posture associated with the seated person. The posture adjustment system then determines corrections to the posture of the person that could, potentially, improve their posture. The posture adjustment system then indicates those corrections to the person, or, alternatively, applies a set of adjustments to the chair to cause the person to assume a new posture that reflects the posture corrections. |
| US09808083B2 |
Device for releasably connecting a furniture drawer to a guidance unit that moveably guides the drawer in a furniture body
A device for releasably connecting a furniture pull-out to a guidance unit that movably guides the furniture pull-out in a furniture body comprises: a base part; an adjuster arranged on the base part and comprising a plurality of components movable in relation to one another, the adjuster enabling a position of the furniture pull-out to be set in at least one spatial direction relative to the guidance unit; and a stop mechanism to delimit the travel of the adjuster, the stop mechanism including a springy-elastic component. |
| US09808082B1 |
Folding rotary sit-inside desk
A desk (10, 10a, 10b) having a top section (14) including a central hole (12) wherein a user of the desk may sit and a gap (26) where they may enter. The top section has multiple sub-sections (20a-c) that assemble so the top section is substantially round and forms a top side whereupon objects may be placed on the desk. A central section (16) includes multiple uprights (30, 54) each having one or more wheels (46, 58) upon which the top section rotatably rests when the desk is assembled. |
| US09808081B2 |
Composite table top
A composite table top including a top plate and a bottom plate. The top plate has an outer and an inner surface. The bottom plate has a plurality of projections, each of the plurality of projections has a top defining a top surface. The composite table top has at least a pair of reinforcement inserts disposed at two opposite edges of the bottom plate. The sum of the top surfaces of the plurality of projections is 30%-70% of the upper surface of the bottom plate. |
| US09808076B1 |
Advanceable and retractable cosmetic brush with adjustable fan-out bristle bundling feature
A cosmetic brush having a flare-shaped ferrule at its mouth, through which an advanceable and retractable, resilient bristle brush extends. The brush connects in the handle, with an elevator mechanism that has a cupped upper end which carries the brush, and effects the axial movement thereof. As more bristles are exposed at the ferrule's flare-shaped mouth in response to their advancing movement, the degree of flare of the brush increases. The resilience of the exposed bristles along with the flare adjustability, creates the same effect as a plurality of different sized, smaller brushes. There is thus eliminated the need for carrying multiple different sized brushes that might otherwise be required in order to produce an equivalent optimal brushing result. |
| US09808074B2 |
Air gun holster pouch and method of using the same
A mountable tool holster is generally disclosed. The mountable tool holster comprises a tool holster and an elongated reinforced backing. The tool holster includes a support arm having a first end spaced apart from a second end. A first leg extends generally perpendicular to the first end and a second leg extends generally perpendicular to the second end. The holster is attached to a front side of the elongated, reinforced backing. |
| US09808065B2 |
Hand held appliance
A hair care appliance including a body, and a handle having a first end in fluid communication with the body and a second end comprising a primary fluid inlet into the appliance wherein the primary fluid inlet includes a first aperture extending at least partially around the handle and a second aperture extending through the second end of the handle. The handle can include an end wall that is substantially orthogonal to the handle at the second end with the second aperture extending through the end wall. The first aperture may be adjacent the second end. The handle may include a fan unit for drawing fluid into the primary fluid inlet upstream of the primary fluid inlet. The first aperture may include a plurality of apertures extending at least partially around and along the handle. The second aperture may include a plurality of apertures extending through the handle end. |
| US09808062B2 |
Hair styling device
A hair styling device simplifies the task of curling a person's hair. The device includes a first heating element extending from the first end of a handle. The first heating element is elongated and spiral defining a first plurality of spaced coils. A pivot arm coupled to the handle is pivotable between a closed position and a pivoted position. A second heating element extends from a primary end of the pivot arm. The second heating element is elongated and spiral defining a second plurality of spaced coils. The second plurality of spaced coils is interlaced and substantially co-linear with the first plurality of coils when the pivot arm is in the closed position. The second heating element pivots away from the first heating element when the pivot arm is pivoted into the pivoted position. |
| US09808059B2 |
Novelty submarine eyewear case
A novelty submarine eyewear case being configured to receive and protect an article of eyewear. The case can be translucent and be configured to be stackable one on another for display purposes. The case can also be configured to have a density being greater than water such that it can be used as a diving toy resembling a submarine. |
| US09808058B1 |
Contact lens package case
A contact lens package case includes a case frame having a case frame panel with a right panel edge, a left panel edge and first and second panel surfaces extending between the right panel edge and the left panel edge; a right contact lens compartment including a right compartment end cap carried by the first panel surface at the left panel edge of the case frame panel; and a right compartment cover carried by the case frame in sliding relation thereto. The right compartment cover is positional between a closed position engaging the right compartment end cap and an open position disengaging the right compartment end cap. A left contact lens compartment includes a left compartment end cap carried by the second panel surface at the right panel edge of the case frame panel and a left compartment cover carried by the case frame in sliding relation thereto. The left compartment cover is positional between a closed position engaging the left compartment end cap and an open position disengaging the left compartment end cap. |
| US09808056B1 |
Self stopping bead with outer shell and inner resilient tube
A method of making a self-stopping bead for jewelry. The method comprises the steps of: inserting a resilient tube with an axial passage lengthwise into a relatively rigid tube having a longitudinal axis; deforming the rigid tube inward toward said axis at at least first and second spaced-apart locations along said axis until the rigid tube is necked down at said locations enough to pinch the resilient tube at a depression; and severing the rigid tube and the resilient tube at said depressions thereby forming a self-stopping bead with opposing holes wherein during the step of deforming, the rigid tube and the resilient tube are pinched off so that each hole in the bead receives therein an end of the resilient tube so that the resilient inner tube has a length substantially the same as an axial length of the self-stopping bead between the opposed bead holes. |
| US09808055B1 |
Jewelry setting
A jewelry snap setting for supporting a jewel and that includes a one-piece support member having a base portion having multiple sides and a plurality of elongated prongs with one extending from each respective side of the base portion. Each elongated prong includes contiguous respective proximal biasing and distal retaining portions. Each proximal biasing portion extends integrally from a respective side of the base portion, and at least said proximal biasing portion has an arcuate cross-section in a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the proximal biasing portion. |
| US09808048B2 |
Footwear incorporating looped tensile strand elements
A tensile strand element for an article of footwear is disclosed. The tensile strand element includes one or more tensile strands secured at their endpoints between the sole and upper of an article of footwear, creating one or more looped portions. The unsecured looped portions may extend into the fastening region of the footwear and engage with a fastening system to tighten the footwear upper snugly against a wearer's foot to provide added support. |
| US09808047B2 |
Smooth shoe uppers and methods for producing them
Shoe uppers having smooth seams and methods for producing them are disclosed. In one embodiment the upper uses thermoplastic seam tape which forms bonds between contiguous upper sections after being subjected to heat and/or pressure. In another embodiment, different parts of the shoe can be joined using hidden seams. Close seams can also be covered with a transfer material adapted to give the interior and/or exterior of the upper a smooth surface. In yet another embodiment, a method is disclosed which allows three-dimensional upper sections to be bonded on a last using thermoplastic seam tape. |
| US09808046B2 |
Customization of inner sole board
An inner sole board having varying regions of flexibility is provided for use in an article of footwear. The inner sole board may include different materials along its length at different locations that vary its flexibility. An inner sole board is manufactured in an injection molding process requiring only one mold. The process includes a first step of providing a mold, a second step of providing an injection molding assembly, a third step of preparing an injection molding assembly and mold, a fourth step of injecting material into the mold, and a fifth step of establishing the dimensions of a first portion. During the injection molding process, the flow rate of at least one material may be controlled by a nozzle gate to control the shape and size of the flex zone it creates. In this manner, the inner sole board may be customized for a specific sport or individual. |
| US09808045B2 |
Footwear having an adjustable width feature
An article of footwear having an adjustable width is disclosed. The article of footwear can include a lower sole and an upper sole. The lower and upper soles can have grooves to allow for expansion and contraction. The article of footwear can also include a width adjustment assembly. The width adjustment assembly can have a lead screw, an adjustment device accessible to a wearer from the outside of the article of footwear, an actuation strap, an anchor plate connected to the actuation strap. Rotation of the adjustment device can cause the lead screw to rotate, which in turn can change the tension in the actuation strap. Changes to the tension in the actuation strap can cause the width of the forefoot portion of an article of footwear to be adjusted. |