| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09952727B2 |
Touch panel, display device and touch driving method
A touch panel, a display device and a touch driving method are disclosed. The touch panel includes a plurality of first self-capacitance electrodes. The plurality of first self-capacitance electrodes are at least distributed in two areas; the first self-capacitance electrodes at corresponding positions in the at least two areas are electrically connected with each other; and at least one in each group of electrically connected first self-capacitance electrodes corresponds to one row-scanning electrodes, which is configured to determine the touch condition of each first self-capacitance electrode in the same group of electrically connected first self-capacitance electrodes. The disclosure reduces the total amount of leads and hence reduces touch blind areas and is favorable to a narrow-bezel design. |
| US09952726B2 |
Touch module with engaged electrode structure
A touch module includes a plurality of sensing electrodes partly crossing with each other and a plurality of signal lines electronically connected to a corresponding sensing electrode from amongst the plurality of sensing electrodes. Each sensing electrode includes a main sensing portion, a first sub-sensing portion, and a second sub-sensing portion. The first sub-sensing portion and the second sub-sensing are symmetrically located on opposite surfaces of the main sensing portion. The first sub-sensing portion includes a first solid portion. The second sub-sensing portion includes a second solid portion. The first sub-sensing portion defines a first receiving portion in a middle of first sub-sensing portion for receiving the second receiving portion of the adjacent and crossed sensing electrode. The second sub-sensing portion defines a second receiving portion from edges of the second sub-sensing portion for receiving the first receiving portion of the adjacent and crossed sensing electrode. |
| US09952722B2 |
Transmitter and transmitting method thereof
The present invention provides a transmitter which is configured to transmit an electrical signal to a capacitive touch sensitive device according to a transmitter status in response to a trigger event detected. As a result, the capacitive touch sensitive device can calculate the transmitter status and a relative position between the transmitter and the capacitive touch sensitive device. The electrical signal is mixed by signals having a plurality of frequencies. |
| US09952721B2 |
Touch panel, information recording medium, and information acquisition method
A touch panel includes: a touch detection device; a map generation section configured to generate a first data map including a fixed pattern and a data pattern, based on a signal output from the touch detection device according to an information recording medium placed in proximity to the touch detection device; and a data acquisition section configured to identify the fixed pattern, and acquire a data code from the data pattern, based on a result of identifying the fixed pattern. |
| US09952717B2 |
Display device with common voltage compensation
A touch sensing display device that compensates for common voltage differences. The display device includes a first touch channel, a second touch channel, and an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit includes a first input terminal to receive a common voltage and a second input terminal to receive a supply voltage, a first touch pad coupled to the first touch channel of the display device, and a second touch pad coupled to the second touch channel of the display device. The integrated circuit also includes a first touch driving circuit coupled to the first touch pad to generate a compensated common voltage based on the supply voltage and to output the compensated common voltage onto the first touch pad. The integrated circuit also includes a second touch driving circuit coupled to the second touch pad, the second touch driving circuit to output the common voltage onto the second touch pad. |
| US09952713B2 |
Touch panel, display device, and touch panel manufacturing method
Provided are a touch panel, a displaying unit, and a touch panel manufacturing method that make it possible to thin a wiring line and that suppress visibility of a wiring line to improve appearance. A first electrode group extends in a direction intersecting with a second electrode group in plan view. A large part of a first wiring line or the entire first wiring line is arranged so as to overlap a light-shielding part in the entire line width thereof in plan view. On the basis of a display device, a first electrode part is located on an outer side of a dielectric part and the first wiring line and/or a second wiring line has a line width varied according to a height, and has a line width in an outermost region smaller than a line width in an innermost region. |
| US09952712B2 |
Method and system for communication between touch control device and external device
The present invention provides a method for communication between a touch control device and an external device, comprising the following steps: when an external device communicates with a touch screen, sending, by the external device, 1-bit data to the touch screen within each sending period, wherein the 1-bit data sent within each sending period is a combination of a valid signal and an invalid signal, or an invalid signal; scanning, by the touch screen, the bit data based on a predetermined scanning period to obtain N frames of scanned data, wherein the predetermined scanning period is 1/N of the sending period; obtaining a strength of an LCD interference signal according to one frame of data having a minimum signal strength among the N frames of scanned data; and reducing noise for the N frames of scanned data according to the strength of the LCD interference signal. |
| US09952711B2 |
Electronic device and method of processing screen area of electronic device
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a touch screen configured to display a screen corresponding to a wearable device, onto which the electronic device is mounted, in a first screen area of an entire screen area and to receive an input for controlling the first screen area, in a second screen area, which is different from the first screen area of the entire screen area and a processor configured to determine positions of the first screen area and the second screen area, and to control one or more operations related to the first screen area and the second screen area. |
| US09952709B2 |
Using hybrid signal for large input object rejection
A processing system for hybrid rejection includes a sensor module coupled to sensor electrodes, and configured to acquire sensing data using the sensor electrodes. The system further includes a determination module configured to obtain a capacitive image of a sensing region based on the sensing data, determine a input object set in the sensing region using the capacitive image, obtain a profile of the sensing region based on the sensing data, and determine a contiguous region width of a contiguous region in the profile. The contiguous region corresponds to a input object in the input object set. The determination module is further configured to filter the input object from the input object set based on the contiguous region width satisfying a size threshold to obtain a filtered input object set, and process the filtered input object set. |
| US09952708B2 |
Electronic device and control method for the same
An electronic device includes a transparent display, a display controller; configured to control the transparent display to display content; a first adjustable optical panel, arranged on a first surface of the transparent display; and an adjustable optical panel controller, configured to control states of the first adjustable optical panel, wherein the first adjustable optical panel is transparent in a first state and the first adjustable optical panel is non-transparent in a second state. |
| US09952703B2 |
Force sensing of inputs through strain analysis
An electronic device has a force sensor that determines a measure of applied force from a user contacting a cover glass of the device. In one embodiment, a frame at least partially encloses an interior of the electronic device and has an open end. A cover glass covers the open end of the frame and is movably connected to the frame to allow movement of the cover glass in response to one or more forces applied to an external surface of the cover glass. A plurality of strain probes is positioned under the cover glass, between the cover glass and the frame, and is arranged to output a plurality of strain signals responsive to the one or more forces applied to the cover glass. A force processing module is configured to at least calculate an amount of force applied to the cover glass based on the plurality of stain signals. |
| US09952693B2 |
Touch panel
The present invention provides a touch panel, including a lower substrate, an organic light-emitting component, disposed on the lower substrate, a nano silver sensing layer, disposed on the organic light emitting component, and an upper substrate, disposed on the nano silver sensing layer. |
| US09952689B2 |
Application programming interface for a multi-pointer indirect touch input device
To allow a computer platform to provide a consistent interface for applications to use information from multi-point indirect touch input devices, an application programming interface is provided to a software interface layer that manages interaction of the system with a variety of instantiations of multi-pointer indirect touch input devices. A runtime module provides information from the indirect touch input devices to an input stack accessible by applications on the computer system. The runtime module provides mapping of contacts on the indirect touch input devices to a display. |
| US09952683B1 |
Keyboard integrated with trackpad
An apparatus includes a processor and a keyboard having multiple, separately moveable keys. The keyboard is configured to function as both a keyboard and a trackpad. |
| US09952678B2 |
Information processing device and method, program and recording medium for identifying a gesture of a person from captured image data
An information processing device includes: an outline extraction unit extracting an outline of a subject from a picked-up image of the subject; a characteristic amount extraction unit extracting a characteristic amount, by extracting sample points from points making up the outline, for each of the sample points; an estimation unit estimating a posture of a high degree of matching as a posture of the subject by calculating a degree of the characteristic amount extracted in the characteristic amount extraction unit being matched with each of a plurality of characteristic amounts that are prepared in advance and represent predetermined postures different from each other; and a determination unit determining accuracy of estimation by the estimation unit using a matching cost when the estimation unit carries out the estimation. |
| US09952677B2 |
Method and apparatus for distinguishing features in data
To distinguish a region (e.g. hand) within a data set (e.g. digital image), data elements (e.g. pixels) representing a transition (e.g. hand outline) are identified. The direction toward the region is determined, for example using weighted direction matrices yielding a numerical maximum when aligned inward. A test element displaced one or more steps inward from the boundary element is tested against a standard for identifying the region. If the tested element meets the standard, that element is identified as part of the region. By examining data elements away from the transition, noise in the transition itself is avoided without altering the transition (e.g. by smoothing) while still only examining a linear data set (i.e. a contour or trace of the feature rather than a flooded interior thereof). The direction to the exterior of the region, an exterior contour, other features, and/or the transition also may be identified/followed. |
| US09952676B2 |
Wearable device with gesture recognition mechanism
A method is described including receiving real time signals from the sensor array, comparing the real time signals to corresponding training signals representing a gesture from each sensor in the sensor array to determine if a gesture has been recognized and transmitting a command corresponding to a recognized gesture to a remote computing device. |
| US09952674B2 |
Communication system, communication method and program
A communication system includes processing circuitry that responds to a recognition result by initiating an electronic communication session with a user-designated destination. The recognition result corresponds with a recognized gesture made by the user as detected by a sensor, and the user-designated destination corresponds with the recognized gesture. A method and non-transitory computer program product also respond to the recognition result in a similar manner. |
| US09952665B2 |
Eye vergence detection on a display
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth technique for displaying an image based on eye vergence. The technique includes determining a first distance from one or more eyes of a user to a display location, and determining, based on eye gaze vectors associated with the eyes of the user, an eye convergence distance. The technique further includes causing the image to be displayed when the eye convergence distance is substantially the same as the first distance, or causing a display of the image to be terminated when the eye convergence distance is not substantially the same as the first distance. |
| US09952662B2 |
Wireless devices with flexible monitors and keyboards
A portable device (e.g., a wireless device such as a cell phone) is provided with a flexible keyboard and a flexible display screen. Such flexible components may be stored in the housing of the portable device when not in use. The flexible display screen and flexible keyboard may be expanded from the housing when the flexible components are utilized by a user. Non-flexible display and input components may be provided on the exterior of the portable device such that the device may be used, in some form, while the flexible components are stored. In one embodiment, a portion of the flexible display (or flexible keyboard) may be utilized when the flexible display (or flexible keyboard) is stored in said first housing. |
| US09952658B2 |
System and method for improving viewing experience on a digital device
This disclosure relates to system and method for improving viewing experience of a user on a digital device. In one embodiment, a method is provided for improving viewing experience of a user on a digital device. The method, at a first instance, comprises determining a plurality of first vision parameters for two or more viewing positions based on a plurality of first sensor parameters and a plurality of viewing experiences of the user for the two or more viewing positions, deriving a base viewability index based on the plurality of first vision parameters for the two or more viewing positions, and creating a user profile comprising the base viewability index of the user. The method, at a subsequent instance, further comprises determining a plurality of subsequent vision parameters for a current viewing position based on a plurality of subsequent sensor parameters for the current viewing position and attributes of a digital content, deriving a dynamic viewability index based on the plurality of subsequent vision parameters for the current viewing position, and dynamically adjusting display settings based on a comparison between the dynamic viewability index and the base viewability index, and presenting the digital content to the user based on the adjusted display settings. |
| US09952657B2 |
Display apparatus and display control method
An apparatus includes a display controller configured to control a display state of a transparent display based on a sensor output that contains information regarding an object separated from the apparatus. |
| US09952656B2 |
Portable holographic user interface for an interactive 3D environment
Disclosed are a method and corresponding apparatus to enable a user of a display system to manipulate holographic objects. Multiple holographic user interface objects capable of being independently manipulated by a user are displayed to the user, overlaid on a real-world view of a 3D physical space in which the user is located. In response to a first user action, the holographic user interface objects are made to appear to be combined into a holographic container object that appears at a first location in the 3D physical space. In response to the first user action or a second user action, the holographic container object is made to appear to relocate to a second location in the 3D physical space. The holographic user interface objects are then made to appear to deploy from the holographic container object when the holographic container object appears to be located at the second location. |
| US09952655B1 |
Graphics hardware mode controls
In one embodiment, a system controls a duty cycle of a processor (e.g. a graphics processing unit (GPU)) to manage power. The GPU may include a snoop indicator that may control whether or not the GPU captures and/or responds to communications from another processor (e.g. a central processing unit (CPU) that executes a driver associate with the GPU). A snooze indicator may control whether or not the GPU is automatically repowered at the start of the next frame, or is repowered only if the communication indicating additional work has been received. In an embodiment, the GPU mode controls discussed above may permit the GPU firmware executed with the GPU itself to control duty cycle power down, independent of the driver executing on the CPU. |
| US09952652B2 |
Virtual reality system and method for controlling operation modes of virtual reality system
A virtual reality system is provided. A head mounted display apparatus is coupled to a host device via a transmission cable. A multimedia module receives multimedia content via a first signal path of the transmission cable. A multi-sensing module obtains sensing information regarding the head mounted display apparatus and the user. A power management device controls the power status of the multimedia module, the multi-sensing module, and the peripheral hub according to a power voltage via a third signal path of the transmission cable. The micro control unit detects in which mode the virtual reality system is operating according to the signal status of the first and second signal paths of the transmission cable to notify the power management device to control the power status of the multimedia module, the multi-sensing module, and the peripheral hub. |
| US09952651B2 |
Deterministic current based frequency optimization of processor chip
A system for adjusting a frequency of a processor is disclosed herein. The system includes a processor and a memory, where the memory includes a program configured to adjust a frequency of a multi-core processor. The operations include determining a total current and a temperature of the multi-core processor and estimating a leakage current for the multi-core processor. The operations also include calculating a switching current by subtracting the leakage current from the total current and calculating an effective switching capacitance based at least in part on the switching current. The operations also include calculating a workload activity factor by dividing the effective switching capacitance by a predetermined effective switching capacitance stored in vital product data, and enforcing a turbo frequency limit of the multi-core processor based on the workload activity factor. |
| US09952646B2 |
Power-saving mode for vehicle information display apparatus
A vehicle information display apparatus that shortens an activation waiting time is obtained. The vehicle information display apparatus includes a display unit that displays vehicle information utilized in a vehicle and a control unit that controls contents displayed on the display unit; the control unit makes display control for the vehicle information operate in a power-saving mode where functions are limited, when the trigger signal is detected, and makes the display control for the vehicle information operate in a normal mode where functions are not limited, when the engine has been started completely. |
| US09952645B2 |
Firmware update and power system thereof
A firmware update method is provided for use in an information processing system powered by a power system. The power system is powered by an external power source and the power system includes a rechargeable battery and a controller. The method includes checking a power status of the rechargeable battery through the controller in response to a firmware update procedure. A power status of the rechargeable battery is determined to be sufficient to perform the firmware update procedure, and an insufficiency of the external power source to power the power system is determined. Power for the firmware update procedure is limited, through the controller, to the rechargeable battery. |
| US09952641B1 |
Electronic device
An electronic device includes a display device and a base unit including a casing, a circuit board and a system connector. The system connector includes a system input terminal, a system positive terminal, a system negative terminal, system positive lines, system negative lines and a system detection line. The system input terminal is disposed corresponding to an opening of the casing, and the system positive terminal and the system negative terminal are electrically connected to the circuit board. The system positive lines are connected between the system input terminal and the system positive terminal, and the system negative lines and the system detection line are connected between the system input terminal and the system negative terminal. The system input terminal, the system positive terminal and the system negative terminal are non-overlapping in their orthographic projections on the casing. |
| US09952636B2 |
Systems and methods for user modification of cooling device response in information handling systems
Systems and methods are provided that may be implemented for facilitating user modification of cooling device speed response to sensed temperature in information handling systems. The disclosed systems and methods may be implemented to allow an information handling system user to modify how one or more individual cooling device/s respond to device speed control values specified by stored device speed control information without requiring the user to change the identity or pre-defined device speed values of the device speed control information with which the information system is currently operating. |
| US09952631B2 |
Connecting device and electronic apparatus
A connecting device configured to rotatably connect a first main body and a second main body of electronic apparatus includes a rotating mechanism rotatably connecting the first main body and the second main body; a coating mechanism covering at least a part of the rotating mechanism; and a magnetic mechanism magnetically coupling the coating mechanism and the rotating mechanism together. The connecting device disclosed in the present disclosure improves man-machine interaction, and enables the user to enjoy a better experience. |
| US09952629B2 |
Electronic device, user interface method in the electronic device, and cover of the electronic device
Disclosed are an electronic device, a User Interface (UI) method in the electronic device, and a cover of the electronic device. The electronic device includes a touch screen, and a controller configured to determine whether a cover covers the touch screen, to define a first area and a second area on the touch screen respectively in correspondence with a window area and a keyboard area of the cover, when the cover covers the touch screen, and to control display of a keypad related to contents displayed in the first area in the second area. |
| US09952626B2 |
Semiconductor device
A highly portable semiconductor device and the like providing improved browsability of display. Provided is a semiconductor device including a flexible display panel, a first housing supporting a first region of the display panel, a second housing supporting a second region of the display panel, and a flexible base material firmly attached to the first housing. The display panel can be deformed into an open position where the first and second regions are substantially on the same plane or into a folded position where the first and second regions overlap with each other. The second housing includes a groove portion where the flexible base material can partly slide. Part of the flexible base material is inserted into the groove portion in the open position. The part of the flexible base material which is inserted into the groove portion is at least partly withdrawn in a deformation into the folded position. |
| US09952625B2 |
Touch panel and a manufacturing method thereof
A touch panel and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The touch panel comprises: a cover substrate comprising a visible area and a non-visible area, wherein the non-visible area is located in a peripheral area of the visible area; an electrode layer formed on the visible area and the non-visible area of the cover substrate; a conductive masking layer formed on the non-visible area and disposed on a part of the electrode layer that is located on the non-visible area; and a plurality of connecting wires formed on the conductive masking layer and electrically connected to the electrode layer through uniaxial conduction of the conductive masking layer. The present disclosure comprises a method of manufacturing the touch panel. Accordingly, product yield is increased and touch sensing precision is maintained. |
| US09952624B2 |
Cover for an electronic device and electronic device with a cover
The invention relates to a cover comprising a decoration 11 which is visible to a user when the cover is connected to an electronic device. In order to enhance the functions provided by such a cover, it is proposed that the cover further comprises contact sensitive means 22, 23 arranged such that they generate an electrical signal when a part 12 of the decoration 11 associated to the contact sensitive means 22, 23 is touched, and connection means 24, 25 for electrically connecting the contact sensitive means 22, 23 to processing means. The invention relates equally to an electronic device with such a cover. |
| US09952620B2 |
Time-synchronizing a group of nodes
Systems and methods include receiving, values of one or more first external time variables from a first external node and values of one or more second external time variables from a second external node. The values of one or more local time variables of the local node are adjusted based at least upon the values of the one or more first external time variables and the values of the one or more second external time variables. |
| US09952615B2 |
Charge pump and voltage generation circuit
A charge pump includes a capacitor, a first transistor that is electrically connected between a first terminal of the first capacitor and ground, and a second transistor that is electrically connected between a second terminal of the first capacitor and an output node. During a first operation mode of the charge pump, a voltage that is boosted using the capacitor is output through the output node, and during a second operation mode of the charge pump, the first transistor and the second transistor are maintained in an ON state. |
| US09952611B2 |
System and methods for actively managing electric power over an electric power grid and providing revenue grade data usable for settlement
Systems and methods for managing power on an electric power grid including a server for communicating IP-based messages over a network with distributed power consuming devices and/or power supplying devices, the IP-based messages including information relating to activities by the power consuming devices and/or the power supplying devices; and wherein the information is transformed by the system into settlement grade data corresponding to the activities of the power consuming devices and/or the power supplying devices. |
| US09952610B1 |
Clamp circuit to suppress reference voltage variation in a voltage regulator
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes a control transistor, a control circuit, a reference circuit, a current source, and a stabilizing circuit including a first transistor whose base is connected to a node to receive the reference voltage. The reference circuit includes series-connected second transistor and first and second resistors, third and fourth transistors and third and fourth resistors, and fifth and sixth transistors. The fifth transistor has connected base and collector, which base is connected to a base of the third transistor, the second transistor has a base connected to a node between third and fourth transistors, fourth and sixth transistors have bases connected to a first node between first and second resistors or a second node between second transistor and first resistor, a potential at the first or second node is the reference voltage, and a gain is determined depending on a resistance of the first resistor. |
| US09952608B2 |
Thermostat with power stealing delay interval at transitions between power stealing states
A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. |
| US09952601B2 |
Supervisory control of automated irrigation channels
A method of delivery of fluid through a computer controlled fluid network, the network including; regulators to control the flow of fluid to deliver a predetermined amount thereof to at least one customer; a first control system for opening and closing the regulators, which collects data based on timed measurements of fluid levels upstream and downstream of respective regulators and the opening positions of respective regulators, using data analysis to provide models for prediction of fluid levels between regulators; a second control system that is a supervisory layer interacting with the first control system to provide adjustments to the controlling of the regulators based on constraint and future flow load; and a third control system interacting with the first and second control systems, which processes fluid delivery requests from the at least one customer to provide a flow load delivery schedule based on the hydraulic capacity of the network. |
| US09952599B2 |
Driving control device
A driving control device uses a recognition reliability, and more specifically, uses an inter-vehicle distance, a radius of curvature of a road, and a gradient of the road, to determine detection precision with respect to a leading vehicle. Lane markings are set as restriction positions in cases in which the recognition reliability for the leading vehicle is greater than or equal to a reference. Positions closer to the vehicle than the lane markings are set as the restriction positions in cases in which the recognition reliability for the leading vehicle is lower than the reference. |
| US09952597B2 |
Apparatus for correcting vehicle location
In an apparatus for correcting a location of a vehicle, a satellite positioning unit mounted in the vehicle measures the location of the vehicle using navigation satellites. A locational trajectory generating unit generates a locational trajectory of the vehicle based on the location of the vehicle measured by the satellite positioning unit. A location correcting unit corrects the location of the vehicle based on the locational trajectory and map information stored in a map information storage. The location correcting unit, for each of the vehicle locations included in the locational trajectory, determines in which one of the lanes of the road the vehicle was traveling as the vehicle location was measured, and geometrically compares at least one traveled lane of the road acquired from the determination and the locational trajectory, and based on the comparison, calculates a locational correction amount of the location of the vehicle. |
| US09952595B2 |
Vessel maneuvering methods and systems
A method for maneuvering a marine vessel powered by a propulsion system includes accepting inputs to an electronic navigation device and generating a desired track based on the inputs. The desired track includes a series of waypoints, each waypoint in the series of waypoints being associated with a respective heading. The method also includes sending position and orientation information corresponding to each waypoint and its associated heading to a control module. Based on the position and orientation information, the control module generates steering and thrust commands that are required to maneuver the marine vessel from a current waypoint and heading in the series to a following waypoint and heading in the series. According to the steering and thrust commands, the propulsion system thereafter propels the marine vessel along the desired track to each waypoint and its associated heading in succession. A corresponding system is also disclosed. |
| US09952590B2 |
Self-propelled device implementing three-dimensional control
A self-propelled device can determine an initial reference frame of the self-propelled device in three-dimensional space, receive control inputs from a controller device, where the control inputs can be inputted by a user on a steering mechanism of the controller device. The self-propelled device can interpret the control inputs as control commands to maneuver the self-propelled device, and implement the control commands on an internal drive system of the self-propelled device to maneuver the self-propelled device based on the control inputs. While maneuvering, the self-propelled device can determine an orientation of the internal drive system within a spherical housing of the self-propelled device in relation to the initial reference frame, and transmit feedback to the controller device based on the orientation of the internal drive system in order to calibrate an orientation of the steering mechanism with the orientation of the internal drive system. |
| US09952588B2 |
Computerised control device and computer-implemented method for controlling a product processing plant, and computer program product
A production configuration is determined for controlling a product processing plant that comprises a collecting system having a conveyor and a plurality of feeders for preparing product collections from products supplied by the feeders. The production configuration defines a production of a plurality of production sequences for a plurality of delivery routes, wherein each delivery route is assigned one or more production sequences, each of which define a production of a plurality of production collections of a collection type comprising a plurality of products. For each feeder an occupancy with products, which are to be conveyed by the feeder to the conveyor for preparation for the product collections, is determined. A production optimization parameter determines whether a defined production order is to be maintained for the delivery routes or whether the production order of the delivery routes can be altered. If the production order can be altered, the production sequences of a plurality of delivery routes for the production of production collections of the same collection type are combined to a cohesive production sequence and the occupancy of the feeders is determined for the production order with combined production sequences. |
| US09952587B2 |
Method and system for assembly process
A system and method relating to an assembly process of a machine is disclosed. The machine may include a plurality of attachments categorized as core or optional. Each attachment may include a plurality of components each categorized the same as the attachment which the component is a part of. The system may comprise a user interface and a controller configured to display machine information. The machine information may include an image of a portion of the machine. Components categorized as core may be visually differentiated from components categorized as optional. The controller may be configured to modify the categorization of a first attachment, change a first process day on which the first attachment is deducted from inventory to a second process day as a result of modifying the categorization, and adjust a need date for the plurality of components of the first attachment based on the change. |
| US09952578B2 |
Method and system for actuating at least one actuator
In a method for actuating at least one actuator, two control units and a selection logic are provided, and each of the control units is designed to influence the actuator. Each of the control units performs a self-diagnosis, and each of the control units generates at least one activating signal as a function of the self-diagnosis. The activating signal indicates which of the control units is to be activated. The selection logic activates one of the two control units for influencing the actuator as a function of the activating signals. |
| US09952566B2 |
Method for controlling and/or regulating a technical system in a computer-assisted manner
A computer-implemented method for controlling and/or regulating a technical system, in which actions to be carried out on the technical system are first of all determined using an action selection rule which was determined through the learning of a data-driven model and, in particular, a neural network. On the basis of these actions a numerical optimization searches for actions which are better than the original actions according to an optimization criterion. If such actions are found, the technical system is regulated or controlled on the basis of these new actions, such that the corresponding actions are applied to the technical system in succession. The method is suitable, in particular, for regulating or controlling a gas turbine, wherein the actions are preferably optimized with respect to the criterion of low pollutant emission or low combustion chamber humming. |
| US09952559B2 |
System for fastening gems to a watch dial and a watch provided with such a system for fastening gems
In order to make a system for fastening gems to a watch dial, the dial is made of an upper plate-shaped element and of a lower plate-shaped element facing each other, the upper plate-shaped element being provided with openings for housing the gems in a visible manner and the lower plate-shaped element being provided with openings at the openings of the upper element and having the same size as these latter. Each of the openings mutually facing by pairs extends across the thickness of the respective plate-shaped element with an own peripheral edge inclined so that each opening narrows, within the section of the respective plate-shaped element, going from the surface of the plate-shaped element facing the other plate-shaped element towards the opposite surface thereof for forming a seat for housing and retaining a gem between the two elements. |
| US09952552B2 |
Developing cartridge having drive-force receiving member
In a developing cartridge, a drive-force receiving member includes: a first cylindrical part having a gear part transmitting drive force to a developing roller; a second cylindrical part disposed radially inward of the first cylindrical part and in contact with a support part; and a receiving part receiving drive force from outside of the developing cartridge. The receiving part is disposed outward of the first and second cylindrical parts in an axial direction in which a rotational axis extends. The receiving part has an internal space in communication with a gap between the first and second cylindrical parts. The receiving part is disposed to overlap the gap between the first and second cylindrical parts when the receiving part is viewed in the axial direction. The receiving part has an outward end in the axial direction, at least part of the outward end of the receiving part being closed. |
| US09952550B2 |
Printing system including printing apparatus and printing control apparatus
A printing system includes a printing control apparatus and a printing apparatus. The printing apparatus includes a receiving unit that receives data transmitted from the printing control apparatus, and a power source control unit that causes the printing apparatus to enter a first power saving state or a second power saving state. The printing control apparatus includes an acquisition unit that acquires a power state of the printing apparatus, and a control unit that causes the printing control apparatus to enter an OFF state in a case where a acquired power state is the first power saving state, and causes the printing control apparatus to enter a power saving state where a wake-up packet for recovering the printing apparatus from the second power saving state can be transmitted in a case where the acquired power state is the second power saving state. |
| US09952546B2 |
Image forming apparatus
According to the embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit, a writing unit, and a processor. The processor forms a first image again on a third sheet, when the writing unit does not succeed in writing information in a wireless tag of a first sheet, on which the first image is formed by the image forming unit. Further, the processor discharges the third sheet prior to a second sheet, on which a second image is formed, the second image being next to the first image. |
| US09952545B2 |
Motor control apparatus and image forming apparatus
A motor control apparatus that performs a drive control of a motor includes a current detector configured to detect a driving current flowing in a winding of the motor, a calculator configured to calculate an estimated value indicating a rotational position of a rotor of the motor by an estimation computation based on a value of the driving current detected by the current detector, and a corrector configured to correct the estimated value of the rotational position based on a rotation amount of the rotor in a predetermined period from a start of the estimation computation by the calculator until completion of the estimation computation. In addition, a controller controls the driving current flowing in the winding of the motor so that a deviation between the estimated value corrected by the corrector and an instructed value indicating a target position of the rotor is reduced. |
| US09952540B2 |
Fixing device and image forming device having same
A fixing device including fixing belt, a heat source to heat the fixing belt, a rotating member in engagement with an outer circumferential surface of the fixing belt, a nip forming member to pressurize the fixing belt, thereby forming a fixing nip between the fixing belt and the rotating member, and sliding members on both ends of the fixing belt and rotated together with the fixing belt. A rotation center of each of the sliding members is on an upstream side compared to a rotation center of the rotating member along a feeding direction of a printing medium, and a shortest distance between a tangential line of an outer circumferential surface of each of the sliding members and the rotation center of the rotating member is equal to or greater than a shortest distance between the fixing nip and the rotation center of the rotating member. |
| US09952530B2 |
Image forming apparatus
A developing unit includes a developer bearing member that rotates and bears a developer including a toner and a carrier. A controller switches between a first mode and a second mode based on information which influences a toner charging amount. In the first mode, the developer bearing member rotates during a predetermined operation period from a command of an image forming operation until start of forming the electrostatic latent image. Meanwhile, in the second mode, a total number of rotations of the developer bearing member during the predetermined operation period is smaller than that in the first mode. |
| US09952529B2 |
Print head and image forming apparatus
A print head includes: a mounting board; a light source portion that includes a plurality of light emitting elements provided on one surface of the mounting board; a drive member that is provided on other surface of the mounting board so as to generate a lighting signal and drive the light source portion; and a first temperature detector that is provided on the mounting board, and at least one second temperature detector that is provided at a farther position on the mounting board from the drive member than the first temperature detector; and the drive member includes: a light emitting unit that generates the lighting signal based on a temperature detected by the first temperature detector and a temperature detected by the second temperature detector; and an optical unit that forms an image of light emitted from the light emitting unit. |
| US09952528B2 |
Lens mirror array, optical unit and image forming apparatus
An example is a lens mirror array in which a plurality of optical elements, which comprises a first lens surface formed at the top of convex portion protruding outwards for converging light, a protrusion which includes a first mirror surface that reflects the light emitted from the first lens surface at the top and a light-shielding surface that has side walls at two sides thereof with respect to a light advancing direction and prevents advance of the light through the side walls, a second mirror surface that reflects the light reflected by the first mirror surface of the protrusion and a second lens surface that images the light emitted from the second mirror surface on an image plane, is arranged in a horizontal scanning direction. |
| US09952521B2 |
Naphthalenedicarboximide derivative and electrophotographic photosensitive member
A naphthalenedicarboximide derivative is represented by general formula (1) or (2). In general formulas (1) and (2), R1, R2, and R3 each represent, independently of one another, an alkyl group which has a carbon number from 1 to 10 and which may have an aryl group having a carbon number from 6 to 14, an aryl group which has a carbon number from 6 to 14 and which may have an alkyl group having a carbon number from 1 to 10, a cycloalkyl group having a carbon number from 3 to 10, or an alkoxy group having a carbon number from 1 to 6, and m represents an integer from 0 to 4. When m represents an integer of 2 or more, chemical groups R2 may each be the same or may each be different. |
| US09952517B2 |
Method of determining dose, inspection apparatus, patterning device, substrate and device manufacturing method
A method of determining exposure dose of a lithographic apparatus used in a lithographic process on a substrate, the method comprising the steps: (a) receiving a substrate comprising first and second structures produced using the lithographic process; (b) detecting scattered radiation while illuminating the first structure with radiation to obtain a first scatterometer signal; (c) detecting scattered radiation while illuminating the second structure with radiation to obtain a second scatterometer signal; (d) using the first and second scatterometer signals to determine an exposure dose value used to produce said first and second structures wherein the first structure has a first periodic characteristic with spatial characteristics and yet at least another second periodic characteristic with spatial characteristics designed to be affected by the exposure dose and the second structure has a first periodic characteristic with spatial characteristics and yet at least another second periodic characteristic with spatial characteristics designed to be affected by the exposure dose wherein the exposure dose affects the exposure dose affected spatial characteristics of the first and second structures in a different manner. |
| US09952516B1 |
System and method for generating a lithographic image with the use of a digital hologram and a reflective concave in curvilinear surface
A system for generating a lithographic image contains a alight source that emits a diverging light beam and a reflective concave curvilinear surface onto which the diverging light beam falls and which reflects the diverging beam in the form of a converging beam. A digital hologram, which is coded in accordance with the initial lithographic image either preliminarily or dynamically with the use of a spatial light modulator, is placed into the converging beam between the reflective surface and the image-receiving object. The image of an initial lithographic image formed on the image-receiving object is subsequently used in the processes of microlithography. |
| US09952515B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
An immersion lithographic projection apparatus is disclosed in which liquid is provided between a projection system of the apparatus and a substrate. The use of both liquidphobic and liquidphilic layers on various elements of the apparatus is provided to help prevent formation of bubbles in the liquid and to help reduce residue on the elements after being in contact with the liquid. |
| US09952513B2 |
Undulator
An undulator for a free electron laser includes a pipe for an electron beam and one or more periodic magnetic structures extending axially along the pipe. Each periodic magnetic structure includes a plurality of magnets and a plurality of passive ferromagnetic elements, the plurality of magnets being arranged alternately with the plurality of passive ferromagnetic elements in a line extending in an axial direction. Each of the plurality of magnets is spatially separated from the pipe, and each of the passive ferromagnetic elements extends radially from an adjacent magnet towards the pipe. A spacer element may be provided between the magnets and the pipe to provide radiation shielding for the magnets and/or cooling for the pipe. |
| US09952509B2 |
Pattern forming method, actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition, method for manufacturing electronic device, and electronic device
The present invention relates to a pattern forming method including: forming a film using an actinic ray-sensitive or radiation-sensitive resin composition that includes a (A) resin which has an increase in the polarity by the action of an acid, and thus, has a decrease in the solubility in a developer containing an organic solvent, a (B) compound capable of generating an acid upon irradiation with specific actinic ray or radiation, and a (C) solvent, exposing the film, and developing the exposed film using a developer including an organic solvent, in which the resin (A) has a structure in which a polar group is protected with a leaving group which decomposes to leave by the action of an acid, and the leaving group is a group represented by the following General Formula (I). |
| US09952508B2 |
Compounders for enhancing generation of chemical species
A reagent that enhances acid generation of a photoacid generator and composition containing such reagent is disclosed. |
| US09952495B2 |
Three-dimensional video image pick-up and display system using a reference window and standard stereoscopic video data
A virtual field-of-view frame or reference window in a field of view of a stereo camera, and projected in a reduced manner by left and right shooting lenses to form an image on each of a left and right image pickup devices. Standard image data and stereoscopic video data is sent. The standard stereoscopic video data is displayed on a display screen having positions of left and right screens exactly matching each other and having the position and size for reproducing and displaying the reference window as a reference dimension display equivalent to the reference window, simultaneously with left and right polarizations. With eyeglasses for field-of-view separation left and right videos are separately viewed. |
| US09952492B2 |
Projection-type display device and light source control method therefor
A projection-type display device includes: a plurality of light sources that emit light beams with different colors; a projection unit that projects light beams based on image information among light beams emitted from the plurality of light sources onto a projection screen; and a light source control unit that selectively performs first control or second control as defined herein. |
| US09952489B2 |
Discharge lamp, light source device, and projector
The disclosure relates to a discharge lamp including a light emitting tube having a discharge space therein, and a pair of electrodes disposed in the discharge space so as to be opposed to each other, wherein a changing rate of a cross-sectional area is equal to or lower than 200%. The changing rate is a rate of change of the cross-sectional area in every 0.25 mm in a direction along an optical axis of the light emitting tube. The cross-sectional area is an area of a plane perpendicular to the optical axis in a space between an outside shape of at least one of the pair of electrodes and an inside wall of the light emitting tube. |
| US09952486B2 |
High resolution image projection apparatus with horizontally actuated image generation unit
There is provided a image projection apparatus including an image generation unit for generating an image by using light emitted from a light source, comprising: a movable unit configured to hold the image generation unit and to be able to change a position of the image generation unit; and a drive unit configured to drive the movable unit to move, wherein the movable unit is disposed to move horizontally. |
| US09952485B1 |
Video surveillance camera having a separable and removable gimbal
A video surveillance camera system having an easily removable and separable video camera housing comprised of a dome base, a rotational base, gimbal, and a spherically shaped transparent dome cover is disclosed. The dome base includes a surface mounting plate and a grommet. The rotational base has an outer rim being removably attachable to the dome base and rotatable about a first axis parallel to the dome base. The rotational base further includes a gimbal bracket attached to the outer rim and tiltable about a second axis perpendicular to the dome base; the gimbal bracket further includes a gimbal mount which is constructed and arranged to receive a gimbal. The separable and removable gimbal provides an electrically connected circuit board and zoom lens, wherein the circuit board includes an outlet for a CAT5 connection cable and a BNC connection cable and a switch to allow independent operation of either connection. |
| US09952479B2 |
Display substrate and method for fabricating the same, display panel and display device
The present invention relates to a display substrate and a method for fabricating the same, a display panel and a display device. The display substrate comprises a plurality of pixels, each of which has a display region, a non-display region being between the plurality of pixels, and the display substrate further comprises a protection metal layer covering the non-display region. In the display substrate, the protection metal layer covers the non-display region of the display substrate so as to shield the structures of the thin-film transistors, signal lines and the like on the display substrate, and thus the stability of structure of the display panel as well as the high resolution of the display panel and excellent display effect thereof can be ensured, and, in the meantime, the procedure of fabrication process is simplified, the manufacture efficiency is improved, and the cost for manufacturing is reduced. |
| US09952471B2 |
Pixel electrode and liquid crystal display panel
A pixel electrode includes a frame electrode, a main electrode orthogonally connected with a middle part of the frame electrode, a plurality of first branch electrodes which are parallel with one another and spaced with one another, and a plurality of second branch electrodes which are parallel with one another and spaced with one another. The first branch electrodes and the second branch electrodes are respectively connected to the frame electrodes at inclination angles of 135° and 45°. The first branch electrodes and the second branch electrodes are orthogonal to each other, and the pixel electrode includes two areas in one sub pixel, in which the first and second branch electrodes are extended from the frame electrode in directions that diverge from each other. |
| US09952467B2 |
Photo-alignment layer and liquid crystal display including the same
A liquid crystal display is provided. A photo-alignment layer thereof includes a polyimide and a crosslinker including an alkylene group (—CnH2n—, where n is a natural number) and a plurality of crosslinking end groups, wherein the plurality of crosslinking end groups include at least two types of end groups or end group derivatives, each type having a different available functional group. |
| US09952466B2 |
Liquid crystal display device having branch electrodes
A liquid crystal display includes a display substrate, in which a plurality of domains is defined, includes a pixel electrode disposed in each of the plurality of domains and configured to have a plurality of branch electrodes and a common electrode. A liquid crystal layer disposed between the display substrate and an opposite substrate. A plurality of domains is arranged in a column direction and a row direction. Each of the domains includes first and second sides, a first horizontal edge, and a second horizontal edge facing the first horizontal edge. The second side is parallel with the column direction and the first side is parallel with a first slanted direction. A slit is defined between adjacent branch electrodes. The slit has a first width adjacent to the first horizontal edge, and a second width adjacent to the second horizontal edge. |
| US09952463B2 |
Touch panel for narrowing bezel region and touch display device using the same
A touch panel for narrowing bezel region and a touch display device using the same is disclosed. The touch panel includes a first transparent substrate, a first conduction layer, a transparent optical glue layer, a second transparent substrate and a second conduction layer from bottom to top. A bezel region of the first transparent substrate is provided with first conduction pads respectively connected with second conduction pads respectively through first conduction wires. The second transparent substrate is provided with third conduction pads. The second transparent substrate is penetrated with penetrating holes respectively arranged over the second conduction pads and respectively neighboring the third conduction pads. A third conduction layer is arranged on the third conduction pads and fills the penetrating holes. The second conduction pads are respectively connected with the third conduction pads through the third conduction layer in the penetrating holes. |
| US09952462B2 |
Display device
A display device includes: a first substrate; a support layer defining a microcavity above the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed in the microcavity; a planarization layer disposed on the support layer; and a blue-light transmission layer disposed between the support layer and the planarization layer. The display device has improved light extraction efficiency and process efficiency. |
| US09952459B2 |
Electronic device and method for assembling electronic device
An electronic device including a transparent cover, a transparent film, a display module, a side frame, and a base frame is provided. The transparent film is adhered to the transparent cover. The display module is adhered to the transparent film, such that the transparent film is disposed between the transparent cover and the display module. The transparent film extends to the side frame and is bonded with the side frame. The base frame is connected to the side frame. By extending the transparent film to the side frame and bonding the transparent film with the side frame, the transparent film is capable of stopping liquid, thereby archiving a waterproofing effect. A method for assembling an electronic device is also provided. |
| US09952458B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus, comprising: a light source emitting light; a display panel displaying an image on a front face of the display panel, and facing the light source; and a diffusion section arranged between the light source and the display panel, wherein the diffusion section includes a diffusion sheet-fixed to a circumferential portion of the display panel via a frame body, and facing the display panel with a distance between the diffusion sheet and the display panel, and an optical sheet arranged in a gap between the display panel and the diffusion sheet. |
| US09952452B1 |
Eyewear having selectively exposable feature
Apparatuses, systems and methods for wearable devices such as eyewear are described. According to one embodiment, the wearable device includes a body, electronics, and a connector. The body is configured to hold one or more optical elements, the body being disposable between a collapsed condition and a wearable condition in which the device is wearable by a user to hold the one or more optical elements within user view. The electronics are carried by the body. The connector is configured to enable establishment of an electrical and/or electronic connection with the electronics via the connector, the connector being housed by the body such that the connector is substantially obscured from view when the body is in the wearable condition, and such that the connector is exposed for connective access when the body is in the collapsed condition. |
| US09952450B2 |
Chromatic-difference-free wide-angle camera for head-mounted device, and head-mounted device
A chromatic-difference-free wide-angle camera for a head-mounted device, comprising a casing, a biconvex plus lens (1), and a biconcave minus lens (2). The biconvex plus lens (1) and the biconcave minus lens (2) are arranged in parallel in the casing and the biconcave minus lens (2) is closer to an object space. The biconvex plus lens (1) comprises a first surface (3) that is convex toward the object space, and a second surface (4) that has a flat edge and a center position that is convex toward an image space. The biconcave minus lens (2) comprises a third surface (5) that is concave toward the object space, and a fourth surface (6) that has a flat edge and a center position that is concave toward the image space. The biconcave minus lens (2) can move along an axis of the casing to adjust a distance to the biconvex plus lens (1), and compensate for a defocus in a zooming manner. The head-mounted device is suitable for being used with naked eyes by persons having −500 degree nearsightedness to 500 degree farsightedness. In use, a user can adjust the focal length according to his degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness to achieve a clear imaging without changing the conjugated distance between the human eyes and the screen. |
| US09952446B2 |
Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus including the same
Provided is a zoom lens, comprising, in order from object side to image side: first positive, second negative and third positive lens units and a rear lens group including at least one lens unit, in which: at telephoto end as compared to wide angle end, an interval between first and second lens units is increased, and an interval between second and third lens units is reduced; an interval between adjacent lens units is changed during zooming; the first lens unit consists, in order from object side to image side, of a first positive lens sub-unit, and a second negative lens sub-unit over a widest air interval; and a focal length ft of zoom lens at telephoto end, a focal length f1a of first lens sub-unit, a lateral magnification β1b of second lens sub-unit, and a lateral magnification β2t of second lens unit at telephoto end are appropriately set. |
| US09952445B2 |
Optical image stabilization synchronization of gyroscope and actuator drive circuit
Various embodiments provide an optical image stabilization circuit that synchronizes its gyroscope and drive circuit using gyroscope data ready signals and gyroscope reset signals. In response to a gyroscope data ready signal, the optical image stabilization circuit synchronously obtains position measurements of a camera lens when power drive signals are not transitioning from one power level to another power level, and synchronously transitions the power drive signals simultaneously with gyroscope reset signals. By synchronizing the gyroscope and the drive circuit, the gyroscope and other onboard sensing circuits are isolated from noise generated by the drive circuit. |
| US09952443B2 |
Projection subsystem
Projection subsystems are described. More, particularly, projection subsystems that include a light source and a polarizing beam splitter are described. The polarizing beam splitters of the presently described projection subsystems are capable of avoiding performance degradation even after exposure to large doses of incident light. |
| US09952438B1 |
Augmented reality maintenance system
A method and apparatus for performing a task. The task is performed using a tool. Information received by a display system from the tool is displayed on a viewing area that is substantially transparent in the display system. The viewing area is configured to cover an eye and display the information in the viewing area. |
| US09952428B2 |
Heads-up display comprising an optical mixer with controllable pupil expansion
The general field of the invention is that of heads-up display systems comprising at least one display and one optical guide comprising a first image guide comprising a plurality of first internal semi-reflecting plates, inclined with respect to a first plane. The heads-up display system according to the invention comprises: an oculometer designed to detect the position of the pupil of the eye of an observer; at least one of the said first plates comprising a processing with programmable reflectivity, the said reflectivity depending on the position and/or of the orientation of the ocular pupil detected by the oculometer, in such a manner as to reflect the image of the display towards the said pupa and only towards the latter. The display system can comprise a second image guide perpendicular to the first. |
| US09952419B2 |
Objective lens changer for optical instruments
The subject matter of the present disclosure generally relates to objective lens changers for optical instruments. In one embodiment, an objective lens changer includes an objective lens carrier moveably attached to a changer frame by a mechanical link arrangement. The objective lens carrier includes two or more objective lens positions. The mechanical link arrangement includes a first link section to provide translation of the objective lens carrier between the objective lens positions and a second link section arranged to control an alignment of the objective lens position with respect to the optical axis of the optical instrument. |
| US09952418B2 |
Multi-channel simultaneous photostimulation
A photomanipulation device is described that includes multiple spatial light modulators (SLMs). By having more than one SLM, this device can simultaneously photomanipulate different areas with different wavelengths and/or it can rapidly switch between different areas with speeds faster than a single device is capable of. This device is particularly useful for photostimulation of neurons where simultaneity and precision timing is required. |
| US09952417B2 |
Dosimeters including lensless imaging systems
Among other things, a method comprises imaging a sample displaced between a sensor surface and a surface of a microscopy sample chamber to produce an image of at least a part of the sample. The image is produced using lensless optical microscopy, and the sample contains at least blood from a subject. The method also comprises automatically differentiating cells of different types in the image, generating a count of one or more cell types based on the automatic differentiation, and deriving a radiation dose the subject has absorbed based on the count. |
| US09952416B2 |
Imaging optical system and optical apparatus including the same
An imaging optical system includes a first lens unit having a negative refractive power, a second lens unit having a positive refractive power, a third lens unit having a positive refractive power, a fourth lens unit, and a fifth lens unit, and the first lens unit includes a first negative lens and a first cemented lens, the second lens unit includes a second cemented lens and one or more positive lens components, the third lens unit includes one or more positive lens components and a third cemented lens, and the first cemented lens includes a negative lens closest to the reduction side and has a concave surface facing the reduction side, the second cemented lens has a positive refractive power and has a concave surface facing the enlargement side, the third cemented lens has a positive refractive power and has a negative lens on the reduction side. |
| US09952415B2 |
Trenched-substrate based lens manufacturing methods, and associated systems
A trenched-substrate based lens manufacturing method includes depositing lens material on a first side of a substrate, wherein the first side of the substrate has a plurality of trenches. The method further includes shaping a plurality of lens elements from the lens material. The method includes shaping the plurality of lens elements, on a respective plurality of surface portions of the first side, by contacting a mold to the first side. Each of the surface portions are adjacent a respective one of the trenches. Additionally, the method includes accommodating an excess portion of the lens material in the trenches. A lens system, manufactured using this method, includes a substrate with a planar surface and a trench embedded in the planar surface. The lens system further includes a lens element molded on the planar surface adjacent to the trench. |
| US09952414B2 |
Camera lens
A camera lens is disclosed. The camera lens includes a first lens with positive refractive power; a second lens with negative refractive power; a third lens with negative refractive power; a fourth lens with positive refractive power; a fifth lens with negative refractive power; and a sixth lens with negative refractive power. The camera lens further satisfies specific conditions. |
| US09952411B2 |
Optical image lens system
An optical image lens system includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element, a fifth lens element and a sixth lens element. The first lens element with positive refractive power has a convex object-side surface and a concave image-side surface. The second lens element, the third lens element, and the fourth lens element have refractive power. The fifth lens element with positive refractive power is made of plastic, and has a convex object-side surface and a concave image-side surface, wherein the surfaces thereof are aspheric. The sixth lens element with refractive power is made of plastic, and has a concave image-side surface, wherein the image-side surface thereof changes from concave at a paraxial region to convex at a peripheral region, and the surfaces thereof are aspheric. |
| US09952410B2 |
Imaging optical lens system, image capturing unit and electronic device
An imaging optical lens system includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element, a fifth lens element and a sixth lens element. The first lens element has negative refractive power. The second lens element has an object-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof and an image-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof. The third lens element has positive refractive power. The fourth lens element has positive refractive power. The fifth lens element has negative refractive power. The sixth lens element has positive refractive power. The imaging optical lens system has a total of six lens elements. |
| US09952408B2 |
Image-forming lens, and imaging apparatus and information device using the image-forming lens
An image-forming lens includes, from an object side to an image side in order: a first lens group; an aperture; and a second lens group with a positive refractive power, the first lens group including, from the object side in order: a first F lens group with a negative refractive power; and a first R lens group with a positive refractive power, the first F lens group including, from the object side in order: a first negative lens; and a second negative lens, and the first R lens group including: any one of a positive lens and a cemented lens with a positive refractive power as a whole, wherein a distance from a surface on a most object side of the first lens group to an image plane in a state of focusing on an object at infinity: L, and a maximum image height: Y′ satisfy Conditional expression 1: 2.8 |
| US09952407B2 |
Optical imaging assembly
An optical imaging module used in portable devices is described. In order from an object side to an image side, the module comprises an aperture stop, a first lens element with positive refractive power having a convex object-side surface and a convex image-side surface; a second lens element with negative refractive power having a concave image-side surface and a object-side surface being convex in a peripheral region; a third lens element with refractive power; a fourth lens element with refractive power having a convex image-side surface; a fifth lens element with positive refractive power having an image-side surface being concave in a paraxial region and convex in a peripheral region; and wherein the optical imaging module used in the portable devices satisfies: 0.052 mm≤D≤0.082 mm, where D represents a maximum effective focus shifts range under all the defocus curves at 0.4 modulus of the OTF (optical transfer function). |
| US09952403B2 |
Method for manufacturing a mirror
A method for producing a mirror comprising a plurality of optical surfaces, the method comprises: a step of producing elements, step of assembling the elements with each other from the rear, a step of fixing the elements from the rear onto a supporting structure of the mirror, and a step of polishing subsequent to the step of fixing the elements in order to obtain the optical surfaces of the mirror and correct the residual positioning defects of the optical surfaces and polish them. |
| US09952400B2 |
Fiber optic cassette, system, and method
A fiber optic cassette including a body defining a front and an opposite rear and an enclosed interior. A cable entry location is defined in the body for a cable to enter the interior of the cassette. The cable which enters at the cable entry location is attached to the cassette body and the fibers are extended into the cassette body and form terminations at connectors. The connectors are connected to adapters located at the front of the cassette. A front side of the adapters defines termination locations for cables to be connected to the fibers connected at the rear of the adapters. A cable including a jacket, a strength member, and fibers enters the cassette. The strength member is crimped to a crimp tube and is mounted to the cassette body, allowing the fibers to extend past the crimp tube into the interior of the cassette body. A strain relief boot is provided at the cable entry location. |
| US09952399B2 |
Connector panel for plug-in units of a telecommunication system and associated shelf
A connector panel for plug-in units in a telecommunication system, the telecommunication system including a sub-rack or shelf having a backplane for power supply of a number of N plug-in units within the shelf and for enabling the N plug-in units within the shelf to communicate with each other; wherein the connector panel is an entity separate from the backplane and includes a number of m connectors providing an interface between n dedicated plug-in units among the N plug-in units within the shelf, with 2≤n |
| US09952397B2 |
Universal multi-purpose compartmentalized telecommunications box
An enclosable box for housing components from more than one telecommunication systems including a first housing portion, a second housing portion, a box mounting hinge that connects the first housing portion and the second housing portion, an internal telecommunication component compartment panel, a compartment panel mounting hinge that connects the internal telecommunication component compartment with one of the first and second housing portions. The box mounting hinge may be configured to allow the first housing portion and second housing portion to open and close in a clam like manner. The compartment panel mounting hinge may be configured to allow the compartment panel to open and close an internal compartment or cavity that is large enough to enclose at least a first telecommunications systems component. |
| US09952396B2 |
System and method of fiber distribution
A closure (15) is installed at a network distribution point to facilitate upgrading a subscriber network (10) to extend optical fibers closer to the subscribers (18). The closure (15) may include active equipment to convert optical signals to electrical signals. The closure (15) enables a plug-and-play connection to the active equipment to facilitate installing and/or upgrading active equipment at the closure (15). The closure (15) also is expandable to enable drop cables (or other optical cable) to be routed from the closure (15) towards the subscribers (18). |
| US09952395B2 |
Optical fiber cable with wrapped, welded jacket and method of manufacturing
An optical cable and method for forming an optical cable is provided. The cable includes a cable jacket including an inner surface defining a channel and an outer surface and also includes a plurality of optical fibers located within the channel. The cable includes a seam within the cable jacket that couples together opposing longitudinal edges of a wrapped thermoplastic sheet which forms the cable jacket and maintains the cable jacket in the wrapped configuration around the plurality of optical fibers. The method includes forming an outer cable jacket by wrapping a sheet of thermoplastic material around a plurality of optical core elements. The method includes melting together portions of thermoplastic material of opposing longitudinal edges of the wrapped sheet such that a seam is formed holding the sheet of thermoplastic material in the wrapped configuration around the core elements. |
| US09952394B2 |
Optical measurement apparatus and method of manufacturing the same
An optical measurement apparatus (102) containing a bidirectional optical transceiver component (200), the bidirectonal optical transceiver component (200) comprising a source of optical electromagnetic radiation (208), an optical detector (214), a beamsplitter, and a combined input and output port (218). The port (218) is arranged to permit, when in use, propagation of optical electromagnetic radiation therethrough. The beamsplitter is aligned within a housing (206) with respect to the optical source (208), the optical detector (214) and the port (218) in order to direct optical electromagnetic radiation emitted by the optical source (214) to the port (214) and to direct optical electromagnetic radiation received from the port (214) to the optical detector (208). |
| US09952390B2 |
Optical element, optical module, and optical transmission system
An optical element includes a distributed Bragg reflector, wherein the distributed Bragg reflector includes a first-order diffraction grating of a first-order period disposed in a central region, and second-order diffraction gratings of a second-order period having a coupling coefficient smaller than a coupling coefficient of the first-order diffraction grating and disposed in both end regions between which the central region is located. |
| US09952389B2 |
Multiplexer, image projection apparatus using the multiplexer and image projection system
To provide a multiplexer that makes it possible to achieve a reduction in size and that minimizes the influence of the expansion of laser light on a multiplexing unit. A multiplexer is provided with a plurality of waveguides, multiplexing units that are provided at an intermediate location within the waveguides, and laser light sources, wherein: the first multiplexing unit is arranged at a position that is closest to the laser light sources; and the laser light sources that have an optical axis at a position that is separated from the transmission axis of the visible light that is introduced into the first multiplexing unit are arranged so that the optical axis is inclined with respect to the transmission axis and the outer periphery of laser light that expands at a predetermined expansion angle passes in front of the first multiplexing unit. |
| US09952384B2 |
Optical diode
An optical diode (1) comprising an optical wave guide for guiding light, preferably of a light mode, with a vacuum wavelength λ0, wherein the optical wave guide has a wave guide core (2, 3, 14) with a first index of refraction (n1), and the wave guide core (2, 3, 14) is surrounded by at least one second optical medium which has at least one second index of refraction (n2), wherein n1>n2 applies, wherein the wave guide core (2, 3, 14) has at least in sections a smallest lateral dimension (7) which is a smallest dimension of a cross section (6) perpendicular to a propagation direction (5) of the light in the wave guide core (2, 3, 14), wherein the smallest lateral dimension (7) is greater than or equal to λ0/(5*n1) and less than or equal to 20*λ0/n1, wherein the optical diode (1) additionally comprises at least one absorber element (10, 11, 15, 16) which is arranged in a near field, wherein the near field consists of the electromagnetic field of the light of the vacuum wavelength λ0 in the wave guide core (2, 3, 14) and outside of the wave guide core (2, 3, 14) up to a standard interval (12) of 5*λ0, wherein the standard interval (12) is measured starting from one surface (8) of the wave guide core (2, 3, 14) forming an optical interface and in a direction perpendicular to the surface (8). The invention provides that the at least one absorber element (10, 11, 15, 16) for the light of the vacuum wavelength λ0 has a strongly different absorption for left circular polarization (σ−) and for right circular polarization (σ+). |
| US09952383B2 |
Manipulating and routing optical signal narrow paths on graphene and graphene as a platform for metamaterials
Graphene may support electromagnetic radiation and be able to support a variety of optical devices. In general, graphene may exhibit changeability in properties such as the conductivity and the like of graphene. Graphene may comprise carbon and be of a thickness of a single atomic layer. In another embodiment, Graphene may be thicker than a single atomic layer, but may be able to exhibit changeability in the properties noted above. Disclosed herein is the guiding and manipulating of optical signals on layers of graphene to create waveguides, ribbon waveguides, beamsplitters, lenses, attenuators, mirrors, scatterers, Fourier optics, Luneburg lenses, metamaterials and other optical devices. |
| US09952382B2 |
Multi-core optical fiber, multi-core optical fiber cable, and optical fiber transmission system
The present embodiment relates to an MCF in which the strength of mode coupling or power coupling between adjacent cores included in one coupled-core group is set to an appropriate level to reduce a DGD. The MCF includes at least one coupled-core group. A core interval Λ between adjacent cores included in the coupled-core group is set such that a mode coupling coefficient between the adjacent cores at a wavelength of 1550 nm satisfies 2.6×100 [m−1] to 1.6×102 [m−1] or a power coupling coefficient between the adjacent cores at the wavelength of 1550 nm satisfies 1.3×10−3 [m−1] to 8.1×100 [m−1]. |
| US09952381B2 |
Light source device and display apparatus
A light source device according to the present invention includes a light guide plate, a light source opposed to one end face of the light guide plate, a casing with one face being open, which houses the light guide plate and the light source and a frame member fitted onto an edge of the casing, the casing includes a contact part directly or indirectly being in contact with the one end face of the light guide plate at a side of the light source, and the frame member includes an elastic contact part being in contact with the other end face of the light guide plate while being elastic, at a side opposite to the light source. |
| US09952373B2 |
Light source module and display apparatus
A light source module including a light guide plate, a light source set and a light modulating device is provided. The light guide plate includes a light entering surface. The light source set is disposed beside the light entering surface. The light-source is adapted to emit a first light beam. The light modulating device is disposed between the light source set and the light guide plate. The light modulating device includes a light reflection portion. The first light enters the light entering surface through the light modulating device, and the light modulating device makes the divergence angle of the first light converge. |
| US09952365B2 |
Conversion film, electronic device and fabrication methods thereof
The present disclosure provides a conversion film configured on the electronic device. The conversion film includes a first regionalized polarizing film having at least two different polarization directions, a second regionalized polarizing film configured on the first regionalized polarizing film having at least one polarization direction, and an adhesive layer configured between the first regionalized polarizing film and the second regionalized polarizing film to bond the first regionalized polarizing film and the second regionalized polarizing film together. One of the polarization directions of the second regionalized polarizing film is same as one of the polarization directions of the first regionalized polarizing film. |
| US09952363B2 |
Random dispersion-type reflection polarizer
A reflection-type polarizer according to the present invention has an improved bright line visibility phenomenon and a wider viewing angle, compared with a conventional dispersion-type reflection polarizer, and can maximize luminance improvement while minimizing optical loss. In addition, in connection with implementing a reflection polarizer, a group dispersion body can be formed through simple control, making it possible to maximize productivity improvement through process simplification. |
| US09952358B2 |
Method to prevent emulsion in a liquid lens
Embodiments generally relate to methods for preventing the formation of an emulsion in a liquid lens. In one embodiment, the method comprises fabricating a top substrate, a bottom substrate, and a central substrate including a cavity configured to be filled by first and second liquids. The liquid lens comprising the top substrate, the bottom substrate and the central substrate is assembled, with at least one of the top substrate and the bottom substrate in the assembled liquid lens being characterized by a stabilizing feature determining that in response to an impact load on the assembled liquid lens that would cause localized pressure drops of maximum magnitude X in the absence of the stabilizing feature, the maximum magnitude of localized pressure drops within the liquid lens is smaller than X. |
| US09952357B2 |
High resolution optical system
The present invention relates to a high resolution optical system.The optical system of the present invention includes, sequentially from an object side, a first lens having a positive refractive power and an object-side surface convex toward the object side; a second lens having a negative refractive power and an upwardly concave upper surface; a third lens having a positive refractive power; a fourth lens having a negative refractive power; a fifth lens having a positive refractive power and an upwardly convex upper surface; and a six lens having a negative refractive power and an upwardly concave upper surface. |
| US09952355B1 |
Spatially controlled conductivity in transparent oxide coatings
A method of coating an optical substrate includes depositing a semiconductor coating over a surface of an optical substrate, wherein the semiconductor coating has broadband optical transmittance. Portions of the semiconductor coating are doped to form a spatially varied pattern of doped semiconductor in the semiconductor coating. The method includes annealing the semiconductor coating to do at least one of: increase oxygen in undoped areas of the semiconductor coating; or reduce oxygen in doped areas of the semiconductor coating. |
| US09952353B2 |
Aggregation and analytics for application-specific optimization based on multiple data sources
Aggregating and transforming data, and performing analytics thereupon, for application-specific optimization based on multiple data sources. The data is preferably ingressed automatically, and may originate from various public and/or private data sources. Data transformation preferably aligns the data aggregated from the various sources, to thereby allow meaningful referencing. Complex and non-aligned data can therefore be consolidated, such that it is readily digestible by simulation (or other) software. In an embodiment, risk of flooding for a supply chain is computed from the aggregated and transformed data, using data analytics based on physical computation for flood risk assessment, allowing the supply chain to be optimized with regard to threat of flooding and/or actual flooding. In another embodiment, risk of wild fire may be assessed. Other types of risk may also be assessed. |
| US09952349B1 |
Human motion detection system
A motion detection system including a lens arranged to focus infrared radiation; a variably positionable optical attenuator arranged for variable positioning thereof opposite the focusing lens, operable for variably attenuating infrared radiation focused by the focusing lens, an extent and a magnitude of the variable attenuation being dependent on a position and on a set of physical characteristics of the variably positionable optical attenuator; a PIR sensor positioned opposite the focusing lens and the variably positionable optical attenuator, operable for sensing the focused and attenuated infrared radiation; and a human motion detection indication generator operable for ascertaining whether an intensity of infrared radiation sensed by the PIR sensor is above a human-generated infrared radiation detection threshold and, responsive thereto, for generating an indication of detection of human motion. |
| US09952344B2 |
High-performance dipole acoustic transmitter
A disclosed high-purity dipole transmitter has a longitudinal axis, an oscillation axis, and a side axis, each of the axes being mutually orthogonal. The transmitter includes an outer shell having external surfaces for displacing fluid along the oscillation axis. The transmitter also includes a reaction mass positioned inside the outer shell. The transmitter also includes an electromagnetic actuator that drives the outer shell relative to the reaction mass. The transmitter also includes a pair of matching springs separated along the longitudinal axis, where each spring is coupled between the outer shell and the reaction mass to enable compliant dipole motion of the outer shell along the oscillation axis while suppressing motion along other axes. Each spring includes a beam arrangement with each beam extending lengthwise in a direction parallel to the side axis and being thinnest in a direction parallel to the oscillation axis. The outer shell, the reaction mass, the electromagnetic actuator, and each spring, have mirror symmetry in a plane that includes the oscillation axis and the longitudinal axis, and have mirror symmetry in a plane that includes the side axis and the longitudinal axis. |
| US09952342B2 |
Methods and devices for acquiring seismic data relative to an underground area beneath the sea
In order to acquire seismic data relative to an underground area beneath the sea, seismic waves are emitted in an emission direction forming an angle θ with the vertical using at least one seismic source submerged at a depth d. A seismic signal is collected following the emission of the seismic waves and the propagation of same underground with a view to processing same. In one embodiment of the method, in order to overcome the major problem linked to the depth limit encountered by seismic sources, the processing of the seismic signal comprises a summation of a plurality of terms including the seismic signal and the seismic signal delayed by ΔT=2d·cos θ/V, in which V is the speed of propagation of the seismic waves in water. |
| US09952340B2 |
Context based geo-seismic object identification
A workflow is presented that facilitates defining geocontextual information as a set of rules for multiple seismic attributes. Modeling algorithms may be employed that facilitate analysis of multiple seismic attributes to find candidate regions that are most likely to satisfy the set of rules. These candidates may then be sorted based on how well they represent the geocontextual information. |
| US09952336B2 |
Photosensors arranged on a surface of a scintillator
A radiation detector can include a scintillator having opposing end surfaces and a plurality of discrete photosensors disposed on an end surface of the scintillator. In an embodiment, the photosensors are disposed at the corners or along the peripheral edge of the end surface, as opposed to being disposed at the center of the end surface. In an embodiment, the plurality of discrete photosensors may cover at most 80% of a surface area of the end surface of the scintillator and may not cover a center of the end surface of the scintillator. In a further embodiment, an aspect ratio of the monolithic scintillator can be selected to improve energy resolution. |
| US09952335B2 |
Radiation detector, radiographic imaging device and radiographic imaging system
The present invention provides a radiation detector, a radiographic imaging device and a radiographic imaging system that may detect radiation with high precision. Namely, in the radiation detector, radiation detection pixels include detection TFTs, and light that has been converted from radiation is illuminated directly from a scintillator onto the detection TFTs. Accordingly, leak current occurs in semiconductor active layers of the detection TFTs corresponding to the amount (intensity) of the illuminated light, and the leak current flows in to signal lines. Accordingly, radiation may be detected by monitoring the leak current, and enables timings, such as the start of irradiation of radiation, to be detected. |
| US09952334B2 |
Pulse detection circuit, radiation detection circuit, and radiation detection apparatus
A pulse detection circuit according to an embodiment includes a conversion circuit, a delay circuit, first and second comparators, a latch, and a generation circuit. The conversion circuit converts an input signal into a thermometer code signal. The delay circuit outputs a delay signal being the thermometer code signal delayed by a predetermined delay time. The first comparator (The second comparator) compares the thermometer code signal with the delay signal and outputs an increase signal (a decrease signal) indicating whether the input signal is larger (smaller) than the input signal before the delay time. Based on the increase signal and the decrease signal, the latch outputs an increase-decrease signal indicating whether the input signal is increasing or decreasing. Based on the thermometer code signal and the increase-decrease signal, the generation circuit generates a pulse detection signal and a pileup detection signal. |
| US09952330B2 |
Automotive dead reckoning with dynamic calibration and/or dynamic weighting
A computer readable medium containing processor executable instructions configured to perform the steps of (i) monitoring a positional accuracy of location information calculated based on signals received from GNSS satellites, (ii) if the positional accuracy passes a quality check, using the location information to continuously perform a calibration of data received from one or more sensors and (iii) if the positional accuracy does not pass the quality check, cease the calibration of the data received from the sensors, wherein dead reckoning information is calculated from the data received from the sensors. |
| US09952328B2 |
Antenna pattern data mining for automotive GNSS receivers
The system provides a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver in a vehicle. The GNSS receiver includes a radio frequency (RF) receiving circuit configured to receive GNSS signals from a plurality of GNSS satellites orbiting Earth at respective azimuth and elevation angles, a memory device storing an predetermined antenna pattern including initial signal to noise ratio (SNR) values for each of the respective azimuth and elevation angles, and a processor. The processor is configured to calculate SNR values of the received GNSS signals, iteratively calculate an updated antenna pattern by combining the calculated SNR values with the initial SNR values, compare further SNR values of further received GNSS signals to the SNR values in the updated antenna pattern to perform at least one of the following: 1) detection and mitigation of multipath signals, 2) estimation of vehicle heading, and 3) determination of a location of the antenna within the vehicle. |
| US09952327B2 |
Hole selection system and method
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and method for hole selection in a defined area. Embodiments further disclose a system and method for selecting a golf hole location on a green. The system may include a storage component, a processing component, an analyzing component, a selecting component, and a user interface. The storage component may store a database of potential hole locations and attributes. The analyzing component may apply limitations to selecting golf hole locations based upon attributes of each golf hole location to determine an available set. The selecting component may select a golf hole location from the available set. The user interface may be used to input data and output a presentation of a selected golf hole location. |
| US09952326B2 |
Systems and methods for maintaining minimum operational requirements of a ground-based augmentation system
A ground-based system to reduce the effect of interference, comprising a plurality of reference receivers, wherein the reference receivers are spaced a distance apart such that a single source of interference is unable to substantially interfere with a subset of the plurality of reference receivers, wherein the subset of the plurality of reference receivers includes at least two reference receivers; and a processing module communicatively coupled to the plurality of reference receivers and configured to receive data from each of the plurality of reference receivers, wherein the processing module is further configured to perform differential calculations on the data to calculate measurement corrections and estimated errors. |
| US09952323B2 |
High resolution, high frame rate, low power image sensor
An apparatus and method for determining a distance to an object using a binary, event-based image sensor. In one aspect, the image sensor includes memory circuitry and address decode circuitry. In one aspect, activation of a photodiode of the image sensor array by receipt of one or more photons is able to be used directly as an input to logic circuitry. In one embodiment, the image sensor includes photodiodes operating in an avalanche photodiode mode or Geiger mode. In one embodiment, the imaging sensor includes photodiodes operating as thresholded integrating pixels. The imaging sensor can be fabricated from one or more substrates having at least a first and a second voltage portion. |
| US09952320B2 |
Method for operating a radar sensor of a motor vehicle, driver assistance device and motor vehicle
The invention relates to a method for operating a radar sensor (5, 6) of a motor vehicle (1), in which for detecting a target object (12) in an environment of the motor vehicle (1), a transmit signal (S) is emitted by means of the radar sensor (5, 6) and an echo signal reflected on the target object (12) is received as a received signal, wherein a plurality of sequences (13) each including a plurality of frequency-modulated chirp signals (14) is emitted one after the other by means of the radar sensor (5, 6) as the transmit signal (S), and wherein a transmission pause (15) respectively follows each sequence (13), in which the radar sensor (5, 6) does not emit any chirp signals (14). The period of time of the transmission pauses (15) is respectively randomly adjusted in the operation of the radar sensor (5, 6). |
| US09952318B2 |
Group of spaced apart acoustic transceiver arrays and a method for measuring a content of a bin
A method and a system for evaluating a content of a bin, the method may include: transmitting at a first point in time and by a first acoustic transceiver array, a first acoustic pulse; receiving by a second acoustic transceiver array an echo of the first acoustic pulse; and processing the echo of the first acoustic pulse to assist in a provision of a first estimate related to the content; wherein the second acoustic transceiver array differs from the first transceiver array; wherein a distance between the first and second acoustic transceiver array is at least ten times a distance between transducers of the second acoustic transceiver array. |
| US09952317B2 |
Vehicle sensor calibration system
A vehicle sensor calibration system can detect an SDV on a turntable surrounded by a plurality of fiducial targets, and rotate the turntable using a control mechanism to provide the sensor system of the SDV with a sensor view of the plurality of fiducial targets. The vehicle sensor calibration system can receive, over a communication link with the SDV, a data log corresponding to the sensor view from the sensor system of the SDV recorded as the SDV rotates on the turntable. Thereafter, the vehicle sensor calibration system can analyze the sensor data to determine a set of calibration parameters to calibrate the sensor system of the SDV. |
| US09952311B2 |
Radar apparatus and method of reducing interference
A radar apparatus and method of reducing interference which can reduce an amount of interference are provided. The radar apparatus transmits a modulated pulse signal and a non-modulated pulse signal. The radar apparatus includes an interference frequency detecting module and a map generating module. The interference frequency detecting module detects an interference frequency that is a frequency of an interference wave, based on reception signals containing a reflection wave caused by either one of the modulated pulse signal and the non-modulated pulse signal. The map generating module generates a frequency map for specifying an interference band that is a frequency band where the interference frequency exists and a no-interference band that is a frequency band where the interference frequency does not exist. A central frequency of at least one of the modulated pulse signal and the non-modulated pulse signal is set based on the frequency map. |
| US09952310B2 |
Aircraft weather radar coverage supplementing system
In one example, this disclosure is directed to a system configured to receive weather data from one or more weather data sources. The system is further configured to receive, from a requesting weather radar system, a request for supplemental weather data covering an identified region, wherein the requesting weather radar system is associated with a specific weather radar data format. The system is further configured to identify a set of supplemental weather data for the identified region, based on the received weather data from the one or more weather data sources, wherein the supplemental weather data is in the specific weather radar data format associated with the requesting weather radar system and comprises weather forecast information for the identified region. The system is further configured to transmit the supplemental weather data for the identified region to the requesting weather radar system. |
| US09952309B2 |
Mobile device indoor navigation
An audio playback system receives digitally watermarked audio programming and distributes it to audio speakers in a venue, enabling a variety of location and product dependent services to be delivered to mobile devices in the venue. Mobile devices sense audio from speakers and decode digital identifying information, including characteristics to distinguish audio sources. The mobile device communicates with a networked computer to provide the identifying information, which in turn, triggers an alert for output on the mobile device. |
| US09952305B2 |
Independent beacon based light position system
Systems an methods are provided that disclose providing a positioning service for devices based on light received from one or more light sources. This light based positioning service uses light information transmitted by each light source to determine the position of the device. The positioning information can include three dimension position information in a building that can then be used to deliver services and information to a mobile device. The content delivered to a mobile device can include multimedia, text, audio, and/or pictorial information. The positioning information along with other location or positioning information can be used in providing augmented reality or location aware services. The light sources can be independent beacons that broadcast information in visible light at a rate that is undetectable by the human eye. Content can be retrieved from a server over a communications connection. |
| US09952304B2 |
Vehicle positioning system
A method including: receiving a synchronization signal and collecting a rolling shutter image of a modulated light on a sensor, determining a primary frequency from the rolling shutter image, and comparing the primary frequency to an expected primary frequency image to determine a directional movement related to a vehicle. |
| US09952303B2 |
Method for automatic calibration of motion detection techniques in medical imaging systems
A motion detection system detects object motion in a medical imaging system. The computer-implemented calibration method includes an automatic calibration process for determining a motion threshold for the object motion detection system, while the object is positioned for imaging by the medical imaging system. The calibration process includes: repeatedly acquiring motion detection data and repeatedly acquiring motion quantification data with a motion quantification system. The motion quantification data are analyzed to determine whether the object was mobile or immobile. If the object was immobile, an object motion threshold for the motion detection system is determined by statistical analysis of the motion detection data. If the object was mobile, the detection and quantification data are correlated for determining an object motion threshold for the motion detection system, the threshold being determined from motion detection data correlated to motion quantification data characterizing an object motion within a predefined tolerance value. |
| US09952297B2 |
Parallel plate transmission line for broadband nuclear magnetic resonance imaging
A parallel plate waveguide forms a volume coil used for magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. The waveguide includes a first conductor arranged on a first side of the waveguide and a second conductor arranged on a second side of the waveguide. Excitation of the first conductor and the second conductor creates a transverse electromagnetic field between the first conductor and the second conductor which causes a target within the volume coil to emit radio frequency signals used for producing an image of the target. |
| US09952285B2 |
Adapter circuitry with global bypass register, legacy test data, multiplexer
A system and method for sharing a communications link between multiple protocols is described. A system includes a communications interface configured to exchange information with other systems using at least one of a plurality of protocols; a protocol select register that stores a value that selects a protocol from among the plurality of protocols to become an active protocol; and a state machine accessible to the communications interface, the state machine used to control the exchange of information through the communications interface according to the active protocol. The active protocol is used by the communications interface to exchange information while the remaining protocols of the plurality of protocols remain inactive. The state machine sequences through a series of states that cause the communications interface to operate according to the active protocol, and that are designated as inert sequences under the remaining protocols. |
| US09952282B1 |
Combined analog architecture and functionality in a mixed-signal array
A programmable device comprises a plurality of programmable blocks, a debug interface coupled with the plurality of programmable blocks, and a power manager coupled with the plurality of programmable blocks. The power manager is configured to supply power to a subset of the plurality of programmable blocks during debugging of the subset while maintaining a different subset of the plurality of programmable blocks in a lower power mode. |
| US09952281B2 |
Clock jitter and power supply noise analysis
Disclosed are a method, system, and/or apparatus to perform clock jitter and power supply noise analysis. In one embodiment, a method may include receiving a first signal, which may be a clock signal, then generating a second signal based on the first signal. The method may further include delaying the second signal by a base delay and/or a series of fine delays. The method may also include taking measurements of the delayed second signal and comparing those measurements to theoretical measurements of the second signal that would occur if the first signal were noise-free. The method may further include determining, based on the measurements and the comparison thereof, whether noise is present, whether the noise is high frequency or low frequency noise, and whether the noise is due to clock jitter and/or power supply deviations. |
| US09952279B2 |
Apparatus for three dimensional integrated circuit testing
A three-dimensional integrated circuit testing apparatus comprises a probe card configured to couple a device-under-test of a three-dimensional integrated circuit with an automatic testing equipment board having a plurality of testing modules, wherein the probe card comprises a plurality of known good dies of the three-dimensional integrated circuit, a plurality of interconnects of the three-dimensional integrated circuit and a plurality of probe contacts, wherein the probe contacts are configured to couple the probe card with testing contacts of the device-under-test of the three-dimensional integrated circuit. |
| US09952278B2 |
Remote test management of digital logic circuits
Electronic devices (320) are provided which comprise a digital logic circuit (101) and a test module (322) adapted to receive test parameters from a remote test management device (310), generate test patterns based on the test parameters, apply the test patterns to the digital logic circuit, receive test responses from the digital logic circuit, compact the test responses into a test signature, and either transmit the test signature to the remote test management device or determine a test result based on a comparison of an expected signature received from the remote test management device with the test signature. Further provided are remote test management devices comprising means adapted to acquire test parameters suitable for generating test patterns for a digital logic circuit, acquire an expected signature corresponding to the test patterns, transmit the test parameters to at least one electronic device comprising the digital logic circuit, and either receive a test signature from the at least one electronic device and determine a test result based on a comparison of the expected signature with the test signature, or transmit the expected signature to the at least one electronic device. |
| US09952273B2 |
Compound semiconductor device including a sensing lead
A device includes a compound semiconductor chip having a control electrode, a first load electrode and a second load electrode. A first lead is electrically coupled to the control electrode, a second lead is electrically coupled to the first load electrode, and a third lead is electrically coupled to the first load electrode. The third lead is configured to provide a sensing signal from the first load electrode, the sensing signal being based on a physical parameter of the compound semiconductor chip. The control electrode is configured to receive a control signal based on the sensing signal. A fourth lead is electrically coupled to the second load electrode. |
| US09952272B2 |
Fixture for in situ electromigration testing during X-ray microtomography
Systems and fixtures for mounting, under mechanical constraint, wire-like or fiber-like samples of a high aspect ratio and down to 100 micrometers in diameter are disclosed. A region of interest along the length of the sample resides between and beyond a mechanical constraint on either side, allowing access to the region of interest for a wide number of characterization probes. The fixture may provide electrical isolation between two retaining blocks by means of a dielectric support member. The design may achieve minimal thermal expansion along the length of the sample by the material selection for the dielectric support member. Electrical contact may be introduced to the sample through conductive constraints in the retaining blocks. The fixture may have a minimal size perpendicular to the length axis of the sample to facilitate high probe fluxes when a diverging probe is used. The fixture may provide high x-ray transparency between the retaining blocks. The systems and fixtures as described therefore may provide a means for performing electrical and thermal testing on samples, including but not limited to solder butt-joints, across multimodal in situ characterization and imaging techniques to analyze dynamic electromigration. |
| US09952270B2 |
Electronic devices and methods for addressing external electromagnetic fields
An electronic device may include a shaft insertable into a target area, and an electronic component configured to generate a signal. The electronic component may be on or within the shaft. The electronic device may also include at least one antenna on or within the shaft. The electronic device may also include a receiver operatively coupled to the antenna. The receiver may monitor an electrical characteristic of the antenna to identify an effect of an electromagnetic field on the electrical characteristic of the antenna. The electronic device may also include a processor communicatively coupled to the receiver. At least one of the receiver and the processor may predict an effect of the electromagnetic field on the signal generated by the electronic component, based at least in part on the effect of the electromagnetic field on the electrical characteristic of the antenna. |
| US09952268B1 |
Method for accurate measurement of leaky capacitors using charge based capacitance measurements
Disclosed are methods for measuring capacitance in presence of leakage in integrated circuits. In particular, it teaches a method of measuring leaky capacitors using charge based capacitance measurement (CBCM) technique taking into account parasitic resistance. Fast and accurate measurement of capacitances allows the estimation of a number of technology parameters like: gate-dielectric thickness, gate critical dimension, trench depth in a damascene metallization process, height of a fin in a Fin FET device etc. |
| US09952266B2 |
Object detection for wireless energy transfer systems
The disclosure features living object detectors for a wireless energy transfer systems that include a sensor featuring a first conductor positioned adjacent to a first surface of a substrate, a shield featuring a second conductor different from the first conductor, where at least a portion of the second conductor is positioned proximal to the first conductor and adjacent to the first surface of the substrate, a ground reference featuring a third conductor spaced from the substrate and positioned on a side of the substrate opposite to the first surface, and an electrical circuit coupled to the first, second and third conductors and configured so that during operation of the living object detector, the electrical circuit applies a first electrical potential to the first conductor and a second electrical potential to the second conductor, the first and second electrical potentials being approximately similar. |
| US09952264B2 |
Display driver integrated circuit architecture with shared reference voltages
A display may have a substrate layer to which a display driver integrated circuit and flexible printed circuit are bonded. The display driver integrated circuit may be provided with switches and control circuitry for controlling the operation of the switches during bond resistance measurements. Test equipment may apply currents to pads in the display driver integrated circuit through contacts in the flexible printed circuit while controlling the switching circuitry. Based on these measurements and the measurement of trace resistances in a dummy flexible printed circuit, the test equipment may determine bond resistances for bonds between the display driver integrated circuit and the display substrate and between the flexible printed circuit and the display substrate. Displays may have master and slave display driver integrated circuits that share coarse reference voltages produced by the master from raw power supply voltages. |
| US09952262B2 |
Method for measuring a physical parameter and electronic circuit for implementing the same
The physical parameter measurement method is performed using an electronic circuit (1) with a resistive sensor (2). The resistive sensor includes two resistors (R1, R2) mounted in series, whose connection node connected to a moving mass (M), is connected to a first input of an amplifier-comparator (3). A second input of the amplifier-comparator receives a reference voltage. One output of the amplifier-comparator is connected to a logic unit (4), which provides a digital output signal (OUT). A digital-to-analogue converter (5) provides a measurement voltage (Vdac), as a function of a digital signal provided by the logic unit, to the first resistor (R1) in a first phase of a measurement cycle, whereas the second resistor (R2) is polarized by a polarization voltage, and to the second resistor in a second phase, whereas the first resistor is polarized by a polarization voltage via a switching unit. |
| US09952258B2 |
Traceable cables
Traceable cables (e.g., networking cables, power cables, etc.). Some embodiments include a traceable power cable with a battery (e.g., that may be rechargeable from current from an external power source to which the power cable is electrically connected). Some embodiments include a traceable networking cable configured to draw power from power-over-Ethernet (POE) power sourcing equipment (PSE) even if the networking cable is not connected to a separate powered device (PD). |
| US09952256B2 |
Matching circuit for matching an impedance value and a corresponding system and method
The invention relates to a matching circuit for matching impedance values comprising an impedance element with an impedance value, which corresponds to a required total impedance value of the matching circuit, a structurally determined parasitic unit with a parasitic impedance value and a compensation unit with at least one first compensation element. The first compensation element provides a compensation impedance value which is the dual impedance value of the parasitic impedance value. Furthermore, a system comprising a first circuit unit and a second circuit unit with a matching circuit serving for the matching is provided. Also, a method for the compensation of parasitic units for matching purposes is provided. |
| US09952255B2 |
Magnetically shielded probe card
A probe card includes a mechanical support fixture having an inner aperture with a plurality of probes secured to the fixture that includes probe tips that extend into the inner aperture for contacting probe pads on die of a wafer to be probed. At least one magnetic shield includes a magnetic material that at least substantially surrounds a projected volume over an area that encloses the probe tips. The magnetic material has a relative magnetic permeability of at least 800. |
| US09952251B2 |
Physical quantity sensor, electronic device, and moving object
A physical quantity sensor according to the embodiment includes: a substrate; a movable body including a movable electrode portion; and a support which supports the movable body around a first shaft to be displaced, in which, when the movable body is divided into a first portion and a second portion with the first shaft as a boundary, the physical quantity sensor includes a first fixed electrode portion which is disposed on the substrate to oppose the first portion, and a second fixed electrode portion which is disposed on the substrate to oppose the second portion, and a guard portion which suppresses an electrostatic force generated between the movable body and the substrate is provided in an inter-electrode area between the first fixed electrode portion and the second fixed electrode portion, on the substrate. |
| US09952248B2 |
Speed sensor ring
The invention relates to a signal inducing device (1, 9, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20), comprising a first material (2, 3, 13, 14) and a second material (4, 16). The first material (2, 3, 13, 14) and the second material (4, 16) show a different magnetic behavior. The first material (2, 3, 13, 14) and the second material (4, 16) are arranged in a way that the resulting magnetic behavior of the signal inducing device (1, 9, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20) varies over a magnetic interaction surface (5, 10) of the signal inducing device (1, 9, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20). The signal inducing device (1, 9, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20) is designed in a way that the magnetic interaction surface (5, 10) shows an essentially smooth surface, in particular with respect to the standard moving direction of the magnetic interaction surface (5, 10). |
| US09952247B2 |
Generating timing signals
The invention relates generating timing signals registering the passage of a component past a sensor. The invention relates particularly to the generation of timing signals in real time for health monitoring of a mechanical system, for example for detecting excessive distortion or vibration of rotor blades in a turbine. In a disclosed arrangement, a method is provided in which a the sensor is configured to output a signal that is dependent on a separation between a component and the sensor, and the method comprises: performing a first passage event integral of an output from the sensor over at least a portion of a first passage event of a reference component past the sensor; performing a second passage event integral of an output from the sensor over at least a portion of a second passage event of a component to be measured past the sensor, the second passage event occurring after the first passage event; and generating a timing signal when the second passage event integral is equal to a predetermined fraction of the first passage event integral. By integrating the signal, short noise pulses will not cause timing errors. Optionally, only a part of the received signal will be integrated, e.g. portions of the signal which are above the average value of the signal in a preceding period of time. |
| US09952244B2 |
Device and method for handling racks of disposable pipette tips in a laboratory automation system and laboratory automation system
A device and method for handling racks of disposable pipette tips in a laboratory automation system are presented. The device comprises a guide rail for guiding racks from a loading region (I) to a supply region (II). The loading region (I) is accessible by a user or a loading device for loading a rack on the guide rail. A plurality of disposable pipette tips stored in a supplying rack located in the supply region (II) is accessible by a delivering device for delivering at least one selected one of the plurality of disposable pipette tips to a pipetting system. The device comprises at least one moveable element, which is controllably moveable by a driving device for selectively enabling or disabling a removal of the supplying rack from the supply region (II). A laboratory automation system comprising such a device and/or for carrying out the method are also presented. |
| US09952243B2 |
Reagent vessel housing unit and automatic analysis device
A reagent vessel housing unit 7 is provided with a drive unit 121 for a base member 122. The base member supports a first opening/closing mechanism 135 for a first reagent vessel and a second opening/closing mechanism 136 for a second reagent vessel. The drive unit 121 positions the base member 122 at an initial position, at a position at which the cap of a first reagent vessel and the cap of a second reagent vessel are closed, at a first opening position at which the cap of the first reagent vessel is opened, and at a second opening position at which the cap of the second reagent vessel is opened. |
| US09952238B2 |
Automatic method of preparing samples of total blood for analysis, and an automatic device for implementing the method
The present invention relates to a method of preparing analyses of total blood samples and to a device that is useful for implementing the method, said samples being conserved in tubes including at least one identification means for identifying the sample, the device comprising: at least one compartment constituting a said storage zone for storing said tubes before and after analysis; and at least one said read means for reading said identification means of said tubes; and at least one preparation zone for preparing said blood samples prior to analysis and including means for verifying and/or treating said tubes containing said samples, and in particular at least one agitator means for agitating said tubes; and at least one access zone giving access to at least one automatic analyzer of total blood, said access zone enabling a said tube to be placed in said analyzer; and robotic gripper and displacement means controlled by an automatic controller and suitable for taking hold of and replacing said tubes individually in said storage zone and for conveying them in at least three directions XYZ between said storage zone, said preparation zone and said access zone giving access to said analyzer, said analyzer preferably being connected to and/or controlled by said automatic controller. |
| US09952237B2 |
Systems, devices, and methods for ultra-sensitive detection of molecules or particles
Described are systems, devices, and methods which related to various aspects of assays for detecting and/or determining a measure of the concentration of analyte molecules or particles in a sample fluid. In some cases, the systems employ an assay consumable comprising a plurality of assay sites. The systems, devices, and/or methods, in some cases, are automated. In some cases, the systems, devices, and/or methods relate to inserting a plurality of beads into assay sites, sealing assay sites, imaging assay sites, or the like. |
| US09952232B2 |
Cardiovascular risk evaluations using a risk parameter that includes an HDL and inflammatory biomarker interaction parameter
Methods, systems and circuits evaluate a subject's CVD risk using a risk parameter that includes at least one HDL and inflammatory biomarker interaction parameter. The inflammatory biomarker may optionally comprise NMR derived measurements of GlycA from at least one biosample of the subject. The risk parameter may be gender-specific. |
| US09952230B2 |
Method of inhibiting nonspecific reaction in PIVKA-II assay reagent
A problem to be solved by the present invention is to inhibit a nonspecific agglutination reaction in an agglutination test using a monoclonal antibody having a property of specifically biding to PIVKA-II and a monoclonal antibody having a property of specifically biding to prothrombin as well as two types of carrier particles carrying these monoclonal antibodies. The nonspecific agglutination reaction can be inhibited by adding certain divalent metal ions to a reaction solution containing the monoclonal antibody having a property of specifically biding to PIVKA-II and the monoclonal antibody having a property of specifically biding to prothrombin as well as the two types of carrier particles carrying these monoclonal antibodies. |
| US09952229B2 |
Arginine vasopressin pro-hormone as predictive biomarker for diabetes
Subject of the present invention are assays and in vitro methods for the prediction of the risk of a subject for contracting metabolic syndrome and/or diabetes mellitus and for diagnosing metabolic syndrome, comprising determining the level of arginine vasopressin pro-hormone or fragments thereof in a sample of a subject. |
| US09952223B2 |
Method for detecting anti-vinculin antibodies in a subject with an IBS symptom
Described herein are methods and systems for the detection of anti-vinculin antibodies, for determining a presence or likely presence of a gastrointestinal motility disorder, bladder motility disorder, or fibromyalgia. Further provided are methods of selecting and/or administering a therapy based on the presence or absence of anti-vinculin antibodies. |
| US09952219B2 |
Compositions and methods for detecting oral neoplasm
Methods and kits for assessing the presence of, and for detecting cancer, notably oral cancer, are disclosed. Such methods and kits use one or more lectins operably linked to a fluorophore, wherein the lectin binds differentially to cancerous and non-cancerous tissues, and wherein the fluorophore facilitates visualizing the differential binding. The lectins are applied to the oral mucosa of a subject, the fluorophore is exposed to light, and cancerous regions of the mucosa are visualized. In certain embodiments, the lectin specifically binds to one or more of a β-galactoside, an α- or β-N-acetylglucosamine, or a sialic acid moiety. |
| US09952217B2 |
Anti-HBc quantitative detection method and uses thereof in monitoring and controlling disease progression of chronic hepatitis B patient and in predicting therapeutic effect
The present invention relates to a method for quantitative detection of anti-HBc and its use in monitoring disease progression of chronic hepatitis B patients and predicting therapeutic effects. By quantitative detection of antibodies against hepatitis B core protein (Anti-HBc), it is able to monitor disease progression of chronic hepatitis B patients, effectively predict therapeutic effects in chronic hepatitis B patients who accept a therapy against hepatitis B virus (especially, a therapy based on interferon and a therapy based on nucleoside/nucleotide analog anti-HBV drug), and thus guide the patients to reasonably choose drugs. |
| US09952216B2 |
Brain-specific enhancers for cell-based therapy
Herein are described a set of novel specific human enhancers for specific forebrain cell types used to study and select for human neural progenitor cells. This approach enables the ability to generate interneurons from human ES, iPS and iN cells, making them available for human transplantation and for molecular/cellular analyzes. These approaches are also directly applicable to generating other neuronal cell types, such as cortical and striatal projection neurons, which have implications for many human diseases. |
| US09952213B2 |
Method for evaluating ischemic heart disease by assaying complement factor H or D
It is intended to evaluate an ischemic heart disease with high accuracy by convenient operation. The method for evaluating an ischemic heart disease according to the present invention comprises the steps of: assaying complement factor H and/or complement factor D in a sample derived from the blood of a test subject; and comparing the concentration of the complement factor H and/or the concentration of the complement factor D assayed in the preceding step with a reference value(s), wherein it is determined that the seriousness of the ischemic heart disease is high when the concentration falls below the reference value. |
| US09952211B2 |
Liquid-transfer device particularly useful as a capturing device in a biological assay process
A capturing device (20) and method for use in capturing a substance in a liquid, by feeding the liquid through a capturing device (20) including: a lateral capillary flow matrix (13) and a capturing matrix (26) in fluid communication with the lateral capillary flow matrix (13) such as to produce a lateral capillary flow in the capturing matrix having a lower velocity than that in the lateral capillary flow matrix. This produces by the Bernoulli effect, a lower pressure with respect to the two lateral flows sufficient to impart transverse oscillations to the lateral flow in the capturing matrix, such oscillations driving the liquid into the interior of the capturing matrix thereby exposing its interior, rather than merely a surface thereof, to the liquid. In the described preferred embodiments, the capturing device is a biological assay device, and each substance in the liquid to be captured in the capture zone of the capturing matrix is a biological substance. |
| US09952208B2 |
Means and methods for bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) analysis in a biological sample
The invention relates to the field of in vitro detection methods using luminescence. Provided is a sensor molecule for detecting an analyte of interest in a sample using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), the sensor molecule comprising a proteinaceous moiety tethered to a synthetic regulatory molecule. Also provided is an analytical device comprising a sensor and methods using the sensor molecule. |
| US09952204B2 |
Formation of neuromuscular junctions in a co-culture comprising rat muscle cells overlayered with differentiated human spinal cord stem cells in a serum free medium
A method for forming neuromuscular junctions includes forming functional neuromuscular junctions between motoneurons and muscle cells by co-culturing one or more human motoneurons and one or more rat muscle cells in a substantially serum-free medium. A synthetic mammalian neuromuscular junction includes a human motoneuron functionally linked to a rat muscle cell in a substantially serum-free medium. An artificial substrate may be used to support the one or more neuromuscular junctions. |
| US09952200B2 |
Cell based quality control bioassays for nutriceutical and medicinal products
A method for determining the translation initiation inhibitory potency of a composition having an unknown level of translation initiation inhibitory activity which comprises contacting an eI-F2α-WT cell with said composition for a time and at a temperature effective to inhibit proliferation of said cell, measuring the level of inhibition of proliferation of said eIF2α-WT cells induced by said sample and comparing the level of inhibition of proliferation induced by said sample with the level of inhibition of proliferation induced by a standard having a known amount of said activity, the amount of said translation initiation inhibitory activity in said sample being proportional to the level of inhibition of proliferation of said eIF2α-WT cell. |
| US09952198B2 |
Translocation of a polymer through a nanopore
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to methods, systems and devices, for analyzing the molecules. For example, in some embodiments, a system is provided which includes a first volume of conducting fluid, a second volume of conducting fluid, an orifice in communication with the first and second volumes of fluid, and means for applying an electric potential difference between the first and second volumes of fluid. In some embodiments, a conjugate product is provided which includes charged polymers each having attached thereto at least one first molecule for analysis, where the product carries a predetermined charge greater than the charge on the first molecule, and upon dissolving a product in the first volume of fluid, the product is directed into the orifice. |
| US09952193B2 |
Test strips for visual differentiation of liquid mixture composition
A test strip device exhibits visual changes, such as color changes, when there is a only slight difference in the composition of liquids such as gasoline, oil, ethanol and water. Such a slight liquid composition difference usually requires a sophisticated and expensive instrument to differentiate. The test strip consists of one and more than one inverse opal films deposited on a substrate and achieves this goal of differentiation in a simple, fast and energy-free manner. |
| US09952191B2 |
Method of and/or apparatus for monitoring a characteristic of a liquid sample
This invention provides a method of ranking a characteristic of a liquid sample by providing a test container [11] having a viewing port [16] to liquid contained therein and through which electronic image data of a defined body of liquid sample [20] in the container can be captured. This data is compared with an electronic data model containing comparison data with which the captured electronic image data can be compared to provide a ranking. The image is captured and the image data is electronically compared with the comparison data to provide a characteristic ranking of the sample. |
| US09952189B1 |
Identifying inaccuracy in air quality detection
An automated method of detecting measurement inaccuracy in an air quality detection system includes: receiving an air quality measurement from at least two sensors; determining a difference among the received air quality measurements; and comparing the difference to a threshold value. A system that detects measurement inaccuracy in an air quality detection includes: multiple smart residue avoidance and inaccuracy detection (SRAID) devices; and a server. An SRAID device includes: a plurality of air quality detection sensors; a controller able to: receive measurements from the plurality of air quality detection sensors; calculate a difference among the received measurements; and generate a notification if the difference exceeds a threshold value; and a communication module able to communicate with at least one of a server and an air flow controller device. |
| US09952188B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring a gas
In a measuring method for measuring an atmospheric concentration of a compound, such as a volatile organic compound (VOC), an adsorptive element is provided within a target atmosphere for a period of time to allow adsorption of a compound of interest, and then removed from the target atmosphere, and placed within a closed measuring space. The adsorptive element is heated within the measuring space to cause de-adsorption of the compound into the closed measuring space, and a concentration of the de-adsorbed compound is measured. A concentration of the compound in the target atmosphere is determined based on the concentration of the compound within the closed measuring space. The adsorptive element may be formed of an adsorptive material such as carbon fibers, cellulose or other adsorptive materials, and a binder. The adsorptive element may be optimized for adsorption of a specific compound. |
| US09952185B1 |
Method of calibrating a phased array ultrasonic system without known test object sound speed
The method of validating a calibration of a phased-array inspection instrument uses a calibration block having two reflectors located below an inspection surface at two different depths. The method comprises: obtaining angle reference data associating expected angles with corrected angles, each corrected angle being usable to propagate a phased-array beam into the calibration block at a true angle relative to the inspection surface that corresponds to the corresponding expected angle; propagating, from the inspection surface and targeting each one of the two reflectors, phased-array beams into the calibration block at a true angle using the angle reference data, and measuring echo signals associated with the propagated phased-array beams; determining time-of-flight values corresponding to the reflection of the phased-array beams on the two reflectors using the echo signals; and validating the calibration of the phased-array inspection instrument using the time-of-flight values, the two different depths and the true angle. |
| US09952181B2 |
Device for the automated non-destructive testing of stiffeners of an aircraft composite structure
A device for testing a stiffener of an aircraft structure made from composite materials. At least one ultrasound sensor is configured to provide measurements relative to a material health state of the stiffener. The device includes a protective enclosure for housing the ultrasound sensor and a mobile gantry configured to move along the stiffener. The protective enclosure with the ultrasound sensor is mounted inside the mobile gantry. A driver is configured to drive the mobile gantry along the stiffener. A clamper is rigidly connected to the protective enclosure and configured to hold the ultrasound sensor pressed against the surface of the stiffener to be controlled. A locator to synchronize each area of the surface of the stiffener with the measurement of the ultrasound sensor. |
| US09952178B2 |
Method to predict a usable life of a vacuum interrupter in the field
A closed and open contact method to predict a usable life of vacuum interrupters in the field can include using computer instructions in the data storage to instruct the processor to position a calculated amp or calculated pressure on an ionic or current versus pressure calibration curve for the installed vacuum interrupter and identify trend data from a library of trend data corresponding to the installed vacuum interrupter and to the calculated pressure or calculated amp of the installed vacuum interrupter; thereby determining the anticipated life expectancy. |
| US09952177B2 |
Integrated droplet actuator for gel electrophoresis and molecular analysis
The invention is directed to a droplet actuator device and methods for integrating gel electrophoresis analysis with pre or post-analytical sample handling as well as other molecular analysis processes. Using digital microfluidics technology, the droplet actuator device and methods of the invention provide the ability to perform gel electrophoresis and liquid handling operations on a single integrated device. The integrated liquid handling operations may be used to prepare and deliver samples to the electrophoresis gel, capture and subsequently process products of the electrophoresis gel or perform additional assays on the same sample materials which are analyzed by gel electrophoresis. In one embodiment, one or more molecular assays, such as nucleic acid (e.g., DNA) quantification by real-time PCR, and one or more sample processing operations such as sample dilution is performed on a droplet actuator integrated with an electrophoresis gel. In one embodiment, an electrophoresis gel may be integrated on the top substrate of the droplet actuator. |
| US09952176B2 |
Automated size selection of nucleic acids
Apparatus and methods for size selecting nucleic acid molecules having wide range of applications including the production of DNA libraries for sequencing technologies. An automated high throughput system for size selection of multiple nucleic acid samples that uses imaging technique to detect the progress of a target fraction and feedback from the imaging to control electrophoresis. Predictive algorithms for timed nucleic acid extractions are generated to provide size selected nucleic acid molecules of required size ranges. |
| US09952170B2 |
Methods and systems for measuring hose resistance
Systems and methods for detecting degradation and failures, include types of failures, in a hose assembly are disclosed. One system includes a hose degradation monitoring circuit having a hose assembly including a hose having first and second conductive layers, and a degradation monitoring circuit configured to detect a resistance of the hose across the conductive layers. The degradation monitoring circuit includes a voltage source electrically connected to the first conductive layer, and a resistor electrically connected between the second conductive layer and ground. The degradation monitoring circuit further includes a voltage monitoring circuit electrically connected between the resistor and the second conductive layer, to periodically monitor a voltage at the location and detect a possible failure of the hose assembly upon determining that, based at least in part on a change in the voltage at the location over time, a resistance of the hose assembly has passed a threshold level. |
| US09952165B2 |
Methods and apparatus for X-ray diffraction
Methods and apparatus are provided for performing back-reflection energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (XRD). This exhibits extremely low sensitivity to the morphology of the sample under investigation. As a consequence of this insensitivity, unprepared samples can be analyzed using this method. For example, in a geological context, whole rock samples become amenable to analysis. A composite diffraction spectrum can be produced using information from different recorded spectra in different energy sub-ranges. The composite spectrum excludes fluorescence signals that would otherwise obscure the diffraction signals. |
| US09952164B2 |
Photon-counting CT-system with reduced detector counting-rate requirements
Various of the disclosed embodiments contemplate systems and methods that compensate for the limited dynamic range of certain X-Ray detector systems, such as CAT-Scan detector systems. In some embodiments, the system alternates between different photon emission flux values and then gives more consideration to an attenuation value associated with a more favorable detection flux. In this manner, different object densities may be accounted for and may be more properly imaged despite the particular characteristics of the X-Ray system. |
| US09952163B2 |
Coded-aperture X-ray imaging
A method of X-ray imaging includes passing an X-ray beam through a pre-sample mask 8 with a plurality of apertures 32, through a sample 10, and then through a detector mask 6 with aligned apertures 34. The beams are detected. The detector mask 6 and pre-sample mask 8 are moved with respect to one another to identify the position of maximum intensity and then moved to two further positions on equal and opposite spacings on either side of the maximum. Images are acquired and a transmission image, refraction image and scattering image calculated. |
| US09952162B2 |
Optical inspection system for printed circuit board or the like
An optical inspection system inspects points of interest on an item. A two-axis gimbal holds a camera and is controlled to adjust an angle of incidence and angle of approach of a line of sight of the camera with respect to the point of interest. A Y-axis actuator adjusts a position of the camera along a Y-axis of the item, and an X-axis actuator adjusts a position of the camera along an X-axis of the item. A controller controls the gimbal, the Y-axis actuator and the X-axis actuator. Upon selecting a point of interest, angle of incidence, and angle of approach, the camera displays and/or captures an image, and the image can be inspected by a human inspector or automated inspection system. |
| US09952159B2 |
Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) apparatus for analyzing biological samples
This invention discloses a laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) apparatus based on high repetition rate pulsed laser. The laser produces a train of laser pulses at a high repetition rate in the kHz (or even higher) range. When the laser beam hits the biological sample, it generates several thousands of micro-plasmas per second. Synchronized miniature CCD array optical spectrometer modules collect the LIBS signal from these micro-plasmas. By adjusting the integration time of the spectrometer to cover a plurality of periods of the laser pulse train, the spectrometer integrates the LIBS signal produced by this plurality of laser pulses. Hence the intensity of the obtained LIBS spectrum can be greatly improved to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and lower the level of detection (LOD). |
| US09952158B2 |
Surface-enhanced raman scattering unit and raman spectroscopic analysis method
A SERS unit 1A comprises a SERS element 2 having a substrate and an optical function part 20 formed on the substrate, the optical function part 20 for generating surface-enhanced Raman scattering; a measurement board 3 supporting the SERS element 2 upon measurement; and a holding part 4 mechanically holding the SERS element 2 in the measurement board 3. |
| US09952157B2 |
Tissue imaging and visualization of lesions using reflectance and autofluorescence measurements
Methods for reliable identification of low-contrast lesions within a tissue of a subject comprise delivering an excitation signal to the tissue, wherein the excitation signal is selected to stimulate tissue to produce autofluorescence and/or reflectance. The autofluorescence and/or reflectance is detected, and ratiometric images are produced based on the autofluorescence and/or reflectance images. An imaging system is provided which is configured to carry out such methods, irradiating tissue at a various possible excitation wavelengths, such as UV excitation wavelengths below 300 nm, to elicit fluorescence from specific native fluorophores. |
| US09952155B2 |
Method and apparatus for illumination and detection in RESOLFT microscopy
A method for illumination and detection in RESOLFT microscopy using a pulsed or continuous light source for excitation light and switching light is characterized in that the excitation light (4) is irradiated in pulses and in that the pulse of the excitation light (4) is longer than 150 picoseconds, preferably up to a few hundred picoseconds, and even up to a few nanoseconds. A corresponding apparatus uses the method according to the present invention. |
| US09952154B2 |
Separated parallel beam generation for atom interferometry
An atomic interferometer and methods for measuring phase shifts in interference fringes using the same. The atomic interferometer has a laser beam traversing an ensemble of atoms along a first path and an optical components train with at least one alignment-insensitive beam routing element configured to reflect the laser beam along a second path that is anti-parallel with respect to the first laser beam path. Any excursion from parallelism of the second beam path with respect to the first is rigorously independent of variation of the first laser beam path in yaw parallel to an underlying plane. |
| US09952151B2 |
Surface features by azimuthal angle
Provided herein is an apparatus, including a photon emitter configured to emit photons onto a surface of an article at a number of azimuthal angles; and a processing element configured to process photon-detector-array signals corresponding to photons scattered from surface features of the article and generate one or more surface features maps for the article from the photon-detector-array signals corresponding to the photons scattered from the surface features of the article. |
| US09952149B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for determining physical properties of a specimen in a portable point of care diagnostic device
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for determining physical properties of a specimen in a portable point of care device are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method includes placing a specimen onto an active surface that includes a plurality of microposts extending outwards from a substrate, wherein each micropost includes a proximal end attached to the substrate and a distal end opposite the proximal end and generating an actuation force in proximity to the micropost array that compels at least some of the microposts to exhibit motion. The method further includes detecting light that is emitted by an illumination source and interacts with the active surface while the at least some microposts exhibit motion in response to the actuation force, measuring data that represents the detected light interacting with the active surface, and determining at least one physical property of the specimen based on the measured data. |
| US09952144B2 |
Capillary absorption spectrometer and process for isotopic analysis of small samples
A capillary absorption spectrometer and process are described that provide highly sensitive and accurate stable absorption measurements of analytes in a sample gas that may include isotopologues of carbon and oxygen obtained from gas and biological samples. It further provides isotopic images of microbial communities that allow tracking of nutrients at the single cell level. It further targets naturally occurring variations in carbon and oxygen isotopes that avoids need for expensive isotopically labeled mixtures which allows study of samples taken from the field without modification. The process also permits sampling in vivo permitting real-time ambient studies of microbial communities. |
| US09952143B2 |
Method and system for gas detection
A gas sensor is used for determining a concentration of a predetermined gas in a measurement volume. The gas sensor comprises a light source and a detector arranged to receive light that has passed through the measurement volume. During a first measurement period, the detector is used to make a first measurement of an amount of light received in at least one wavelength band which is absorbed by the gas. The first measurement is compared to a predetermined threshold value. If the threshold is crossed, during a second measurement period the detector is used to make a second measurement of an amount of light received in at least one wavelength band which is absorbed by the gas. The concentration of said gas in said measurement volume is calculated using the first and/or second measurement. |
| US09952142B2 |
Measuring head with illumination
The invention relates to a device (1) for the light spectroscopic analysis of a small amount of a liquid sample, comprising a receiving point (3) for receiving small amounts of the liquid sample, and light conductors (5, 6) which guide light of a light source to the sample and guide signal light from the sample in the direction of a detector, and is characterised in that an illumination source (7) is arranged below the receiving point (3), and a region (8) below the receiving point (3) which is permeable for the light of the illumination source (7), is provided such that the illumination light illuminates the receiving point (3). |
| US09952140B2 |
Small spot size spectroscopic ellipsometer
Methods and systems for small angle CD metrology with a small spot size are introduced to increase measurement sensitivity while maintaining adequate throughput necessary for modern semiconductor manufacture. A small angle CD metrology system includes a small angle spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) subsystem combined with a small angle spectroscopic reflectometry system, both operated at small angles of incidence. The small angle SE subsystem is configured to operate in a complete Mueller Matrix mode to further improve measurement sensitivity. The small angle CD metrology system includes an objective having all reflective surfaces in the light path. In some embodiments, the all-reflective objective is a Schwartzschild objective having an axicon mirror element to further reduce measurement spot size. In some embodiments, the small angle CD metrology system includes a dynamic aperture subsystem to isolate specific ranges of angles of incidence and azimuth for improved measurement sensitivity. |
| US09952138B2 |
Motorized variable path length cell for spectroscopy
The present invention is thus directed to an automated system and method of varying the optical path length in a sample that a light from a spectrophotometer must travel through. Such arrangements allow a user to easily vary the optical path length while also providing the user with an easy way to clean and prepare a transmission cell for optical interrogation. Such path length control can be automatically controlled by a programmable control system to quickly collect and stores data from different path lengths as needed for different spectrographic analysis. Such a methodology and system, as presented herein, is able to return best-match spectra with far fewer computational steps and greater speed than if all possible combinations of reference spectra are considered. |
| US09952132B2 |
Sample analysis for mass cytometry
The invention relates to methods and devices for analysis of samples using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The invention provides methods and devices in which individual ablation plumes are distinctively captured and transferred to the ICP, followed by analysis by mass cytometry. |
| US09952131B2 |
Measurement device and method of measuring
A measurement device includes: a mass measurer that measures a mass of particles in gas; a humidity changer that changes a humidity of atmosphere to which the particles are exposed; and a calculator that calculates information indicating a correlation of the mass with respect to the humidity. |
| US09952130B2 |
Jig for dropping ball test
The present invention relates to a field of display technology, in particular, to a jig for dropping ball test. The jig for dropping ball test comprises a fixing device and a dropping ball device. The fixing device comprises a plurality of adjusting rods for fixing a sample to be tested, a test region corresponding to the shape of the sample to be tested is enclosed by the plurality of adjusting rods. The dropping ball device is used to drop a ball towards the sample to be tested. The fixing device of the jig can be adjusted in its size according to the size of a sample to be tested, so that the dropping ball test can be carried out for different samples, which is easy to operate and reduces manufacturing cost. |
| US09952127B2 |
Triphasic fluid handling
Aspects of the present disclosure include methods of moving a target fluid in a triphasic fluid arrangement from a vessel into a tube and systems and devices for practicing the same. |
| US09952124B2 |
System for taking exhaust gas samples from internal combustion engines
A system for taking exhaust gas samples from internal combustion engines includes an exhaust gas duct comprising an outflow cross section and an exhaust gas inlet. The exhaust gas duct communicates with an exhaust gas source via the exhaust gas inlet. An air duct takes in ambient air via a filter. The outflow cross section is concentric in the air duct. A mixing zone is arranged downstream of the outflow cross section. A dilution tunnel has an exhaust gas/air mixture flow therethrough. An annular orifice is arranged downstream of the outflow cross section in the dilution tunnel. A flow deflection device is arranged upstream of the annular orifice and downstream of the outflow cross section. The flow deflection device deflects the exhaust gas/air mixture so that it departs from a center axis of the dilution tunnel immediately downstream of the flow deflection device in an axially symmetrical manner. |
| US09952116B2 |
Apparatus for driving a rotor
A mounting apparatus for a rotor, including: a first portion for connection to a driving means, for rotation about a first rotational axis; a second portion comprising a mounting assembly adapted for engaging with a portion of the rotor so as to hold the rotor relative thereto, configured for rotation about a second rotational axis; and a connection member connecting the first portion to the second portion so that rotational movement of the first portion effects rotational movement of the second portion about the second rotational axis, wherein the connection member is configured substantially to prevent radial movement of the second portion relative to the first portion, while enabling inclination of the first rotational axis relative to the second rotational axis. |
| US09952115B2 |
Angle of repose detector for hauling machines
A rollover prevention system for a machine is disclosed. The rollover prevention system may include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) configured to detect a discharge event of a payload material from the machine and measure a body angle of the machine. The rollover prevention system may further include a controller in communication with the IMU. The controller may be configured to determine an angle of repose of the machine based on the detected discharge event and the measured body angle. |
| US09952114B2 |
Physical quantity measuring device and method of manufacturing the same
A circuit board including an electronic circuit unit and electronic adjusting units is disposed in a case. A signal transmitting member connected to the circuit board is mounted in a mount hole of a cover member. Operation holes corresponding to a plurality of operable portions of the electronic adjusting units are provided to the cover member. A cap member including a plurality of cap bodies and a connection portion connecting the cap bodies is attached to the cover member to close the operation holes. The operation holes for adjusting the electronic adjusting units are thus covered/uncovered by the simple cap member. The operation holes are reliably waterproofed by the cap member. |
| US09952104B2 |
Optical fiber temperature distribution measuring device
An optical fiber temperature distribution measuring device includes: an optical fiber as a sensor; a light source for outputting, to the optical fiber, signal light which has been amplified by excitation light; a temperature distribution calculation unit for measuring a temperature distribution along the optical fiber by using backward Raman scattered light from the optical fiber; an ASE light intensity variation measurement unit for measuring an intensity variation of an ASE light generated at the light source; and a temperature distribution correction unit for correcting the temperature distribution based on a measurement result of the ASE light intensity variation measurement unit. |
| US09952099B2 |
Tunable filters for spectral sensing
A spectroscopic analysis device for analysis of a sample comprises an input for receiving light from the sample and a photonic integrated circuit. This photonic optical filter comprises one or more tunable bandpass filters arranged to filter the received light. Furthermore, the device comprises a controller that is arranged—to control the one or more tunable bandpass filters, to receive filter results obtained from the one or more tunable bandpass filters, and to provide spectroscopic analysis results based on the received filter results. |
| US09952090B2 |
Detecting apparatus and detecting method thereof
A detecting apparatus for detecting an object includes at least a screen, at least a detecting unit and at least a holding unit. The screen is partial light-permeable and has a first surface and an opposite second surface. The object is disposed adjacent to the first surface of the screen. The detecting unit is disposed corresponding to the object and located adjacent to the second surface of the screen. The holding unit holds the relative distances between the screen, the object and the detecting unit. The detecting unit captures the image of the second surface of the screen so as to calculate the optical field distribution of the object. The detecting apparatus can measure the optical field distribution of an object quickly and has the advantages of low cost and high accuracy. |
| US09952075B2 |
Magnetic flowmeter with saturation prevention of the measurement circuitry
A magnetic flowmeter for measuring flow of a process fluid in a pipe includes a magnetic coil disposed adjacent to the pipe configured to apply a magnetic field to the process fluid. First and second electrodes are disposed within the pipe and electrically coupled to the process fluid and configured to sense an electromotive force (EMF) induced in the process fluid due to the applied magnetic field and flow of the process fluid. Input circuitry is coupled to the first and second electrodes and provides an output related to the sensed EMF. Diagnostic circuitry coupled to the input circuitry is configured to identify a saturation related condition and responsively provide a diagnostic output. In another embodiment, saturation prevention circuitry prevents saturation of the input circuitry. |
| US09952073B2 |
Solar battery wireless integrated load cell and inclinometer
An integrated load cell and inclinometer includes an outer shell including a u-shaped structure configured to receive a polished rod; a load sensor configured output a load signal based on a load experienced by the load sensor; a position sensor configured to output a position signal based on a position experienced by the position sensor; a load and position signal processor configured to receive and process the load signal from the load sensor and to output load signal data representative of the load experienced by the load sensor, and receive and process the position signal from the position sensor and to output position signal data representative of the inclination of the walking beam or the position of the polished rod; a solar battery configured to provide power to the integrated load cell and inclinometer; and a transmitter configured to transmit the load signal data and position signal data. |
| US09952070B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining immersion risk of mobile terminal user
An apparatus that determines an immersion risk of a mobile terminal user, includes an immersion determination unit configured to determine whether the user is immersed in a mobile terminal based on data of the user, and calculate an immersion frequency based on a result of the determination. The apparatus further includes an immersion risk determination unit configured to calculate a degree of the immersion risk based on the immersion frequency, and determine whether the immersion risk is present based on the degree of the immersion risk. |
| US09952069B2 |
Tipping indicator and packing box including the same
A tipping indicator (10) for fixing to a side surface of a packing box (1) includes an ink bag (11), an ink absorber (12), and an outer bag (13). The ink bag (11) includes an ink chamber (11a) internally filled with an ink (G). The ink absorber (12) is ink absorptive and has a different color from the ink (G). The outer bag (13) is formed from a film within which the ink bag (11) and the ink absorber (12) are enclosed. At least part of the outer bag (13) has a visual confirmation region (R3) in which the ink absorber (12) is visible. |
| US09952061B2 |
Detecting fraud in resource distribution systems
Detecting fraud in resource distribution systems includes determining a meter of a resource in a resource distribution system exhibits a characteristic indicative of fraud and increasing a collection frequency of measurements of a usage of the resource of the meter per unit of time. |
| US09952060B2 |
Method for the real-time estimation of the total consumption of a fluid distributed to users, and a distribution network implementing said method
A method for the real-time estimation of the total consumption of a fluid, in particular water or gas, distributed from a unit (A) to users (b1, b2 . . . ) via a network of supply pipes (E) with a branch (d1, d2 . . . ), for each user, fitted with a counter (c1, c2 . . . ) of the fluid consumed by the user, which method involves defining cohorts of users having homogeneous behavior with regard to the consumption of fluid; defining, for at least one of these cohorts, a sample of users from the cohort that is statistically sufficient to represent the cohort; fitting only the branches of the users of each sample with a remote reading device (t1, t2, . . . ) for reading the consumption; also fitting remote reading devices to the branches of the users of the other cohorts that have not been sampled; and processing the information provided by the remote reading devices to obtain a real-time value representative of the total consumption of the network. |
| US09952058B2 |
Driver visibility detection system and method for detecting driver visibility
A driver visibility detection system for a vehicle includes an indicator, an eye position obtainer, and a visible range calculator. The indicator indicates the driver to look at, through a windshield of the vehicle, a furthest ground position of a road on which the vehicle is traveling. The eye position obtainer recognizes an eye position of the driver when the driver looks at the furthest ground position. The visible range calculator calculates a visible range of the driver based on the eye position detected by the eye position obtainer. |
| US09952054B2 |
Autonomous driving control apparatus and method using navigation technology
An autonomous driving control apparatus and method using navigation technology are disclosed. The autonomous driving control apparatus includes a driving mode setting unit, a navigation unit, and an information provision unit. The driving mode setting unit sets the driving mode of a vehicle. The navigation unit offers guidance on a driving route to a destination input by the driver of the vehicle based on the set driving mode. The information provision unit, if the driving mode of the vehicle is set to autonomous driving mode, provides the navigator of an adjacent vehicle and the navigator of the terminal of a pedestrian with autonomous driving information received from the vehicle, and also provides the navigation unit with behavior information received from the adjacent vehicle and the terminal of the pedestrian. |
| US09952053B2 |
Adaptive mapping with spatial summaries of sensor data
A system and method for mapping parameter data acquired by a robot mapping system is disclosed. Parameter data characterizing the environment is collected while the robot localizes itself within the environment using landmarks. Parameter data is recorded in a plurality of local grids, i.e., sub-maps associated with the robot position and orientation when the data was collected. The robot is configured to generate new grids or reuse existing grids depending on the robot's current pose, the pose associated with other grids, and the uncertainty of these relative pose estimates. The pose estimates associated with the grids are updated over time as the robot refines its estimates of the locations of landmarks from which determines its pose in the environment. Occupancy maps or other global parameter maps may be generated by rendering local grids into a comprehensive map indicating the parameter data in a global reference frame extending the dimensions of the environment. |
| US09952050B2 |
Method, system and device for remotely notifying information
An information remote notification device is provided. The information remote notification device includes an orientation sensor configured to detect an oriented direction of the information remote notification device, a communicator configured to acquire sensor information from an external terminal device, and a notifier configured to notify the sensor information corresponding to the oriented direction detected by the orientation sensor. The sensor information is obtained by transmitting and receiving a detection signal and includes at least information obtained from a direction corresponding to the oriented direction detected by the orientation sensor. |
| US09952049B2 |
Methods and apparatus for performance assessment of a vehicle onboard navigation system using adaptive stochastic filtering
A method for monitoring performance of a navigation system onboard a vehicle is provided. The method obtains, at a vehicle electronic control unit (ECU), a triangulated vehicle location and vehicle motion data, the triangulated vehicle location obtained from the navigation system; computes an estimated vehicle location, using the triangulated vehicle location and the vehicle motion data; calculates a probability that the estimated vehicle location exists within an error bound of the triangulated vehicle location; and when the probability indicates that the estimated vehicle location does not exist within the error bound, performs a task onboard the vehicle. |
| US09952045B2 |
Calibration method of form measuring device
A calibration gauge having plane symmetry is set in a position other than a rotation center of a rotary table. The calibration gauge is measured while the rotary table is driven to rotate. Offset of a measurement axis is determined based on a phase pattern of the rotary table when a stylus head detects the calibration gauge. |
| US09952043B2 |
Device and method for identifying a cyclic movement and corresponding computer program
A device identifying a cyclic movement type of a physical system from a set of possible cyclic movements types includes: a movement sensor providing an observation data sequence concerning the physical system; a storage storing at least one statistical hidden-state Markov model; and a computer programmed to analyze the observation data sequence and select one cyclic movement type based on the stored statistical model. The storage includes least one statistical hidden-state Markov model for each possible cyclic movement type and the computer is programmed to analyze compatibility of the observation data sequence with each possible cyclic movement type based on the statistical model associated with this cyclic movement type. The computer is further programmed to provide a sequence of hidden states of the statistical model associated with the selected cyclic movement type, based on the observation data sequence and the statistical model associated with the selected cyclic movement type. |
| US09952041B2 |
Assessing alignment of top and bottom ends of TSVs and characterizing microfabrication process
A method for characterizing a microfabrication process and the product thereof is described. A substrate having TSV's formed therein is assessed by determining the geometries and positions of the top and bottom ends of a TSV. Individual TSV's as well as the entire pattern of TSV's formed in a substrate may be assessed. |
| US09952037B2 |
System and method for developing three-dimensional surface information corresponding to a contoured sheet
A system for acquiring surface data from one of the surfaces of a curved panel having a specular surface and developing a surface definition of the panel includes a conveyor for conveying the panel in a first direction, at least one display projecting a preselected multi-phase non-repeating contrasting pattern, and at least one camera, each one of the cameras uniquely paired with one of the displays. The system may also include a control programmed to execute logic for controlling each of the camera/display pairs to acquire the desired images, and logic for analyzing and combining the data acquired by the cameras to construct a definition of the surface of the panel. |
| US09952034B2 |
Optical interferometric system for measurement of a full-field thickness of a plate-like object in real time
An optical interferometric system for measurement of a full-field thickness of a plate-like object in real time includes two light sources, two screens, two image capturing devices, and an image processing module. The light sources radiate incident lights toward a reference point on the plate-like object in respective directions to produce respective interference fringe patterns (IFPs). The image capturing devices capture light intensity distribution images respectively of the IFPS imaged respectively on the screens. The image processing module calculates a fringe order at the reference point according to the light intensity distribution images, and obtains a full-field thickness distribution of the plate-like object according to the fringe order. |
| US09952028B2 |
Method of finding a feature using a machine tool
A method of finding a feature of an object using an analog probe mounted on a machine tool. The method includes the analog probe and/or object following a course of motion which causes the analog probe's surface sensing region to traverse across the feature to be found a plurality of times while approaching the feature over successive traverses so as to ultimately arrive in a position sensing relationship with the feature so as to collect scanned measurement data about the feature along at least part of a traverse. |
| US09952024B2 |
Ammunition cartridge with induced instability at a pre-set range
A training ammunition cartridge comprises a projectile and a cartridge case with a pyrotechnic propellant. The projectile has a projectile body with at least one compartment therein forming a void and containing a material that transitions from a solid to a liquid after set-back and after exiting from a barrel of a gun. The void is of such configuration as to cause the liquid material therein to induce forces and moments that, after a period of stable ballistic flight, destabilize the projectile and shorten its flight. Alternatively, the projectile void contains a solid mass that is released to shift its position after set-back and after the projectile exits from the barrel of the gun, wherein the void is of such configuration as to cause the mass, upon shifting, to induce forces and moments that, after a period of stable ballistic flight, destabilize the projectile and shorten its flight. |
| US09952021B2 |
Anti-ballistic barrier for high value facilities protection such as electrical grid equipment
A modular ballistic barrier assembly for deployment in proximity to a protected high value asset such as electrical grid equipment. A ballistic barrier assembly comprises a plurality of prefabricated ballistic barrier panel units that can be stacked on top of each other. Each panel unit is made of spaced apart angled steel louvers or slats, arranged in one or more sections. The louvers are arranged in one or more vertically extending, spaced apart rows, having an outwardly facing row of louvers presenting a downwardly angled surface to an approaching projectile, and an inwardly facing row of louvers presenting a second layer of ballistics protection. Steel I-beam support columns are provided at spaced apart intervals to receive and support a stack of panel units. The panel units are made to interlock with vertically adjacent, stacked panels, so that multiple panel units can be stacked. |
| US09952020B2 |
Adaptive visual camouflage
In a method for visually adaptively camouflaging objects, the background and/or the surroundings in front of which and/or in which the object is situated are/is detected by means of a camera or a sensor array. The background and/or the surroundings thus detected are/is reproduced as an image (3) in a device for camouflaging the object. |
| US09952019B2 |
Ultrasonic electro-optic seeker
A ball joint gimbal (BJG) seeker assembly is provided and includes a back shell, a retaining system disposed to urge the seeker ball toward the back shell and a piezoelectric ultrasonic motor and sensor system arrayed between the seeker ball and the back shell. The piezoelectric ultrasonic motor and sensor system is pre-loaded by the retaining system and configured to controllably drive an angular orientation of the seeker ball. |
| US09952018B2 |
Device for event representations in duel shooting
The invention relates to a device for event representation in duel shooting.Known devices have the disadvantage that, in order to practice duel shooting, it is always necessary to modify a shooting range.The aim of the invention is to create a device for duel shooting which does not require complicated modification of a shooting range.This aim is achieved according to the invention in that a visualizing unit is provided for representing events, which is positionable within the range of perception of the marksman's eye. |
| US09952007B2 |
Thermal actuators and related methods
Presently disclosed thermal actuators may be incorporated into a self-regulating thermal insulation, such that expansion and contraction of the thermal actuators in response to changes in temperature adjacent the thermal insulation automatically changes the thermal resistance of the thermal insulation. In this manner, a self-regulating thermal insulation may be configured to locally adjust in response to local changes in temperature of a part being insulated, for example, during curing or some other manufacturing process. Such self-regulating thermal insulation may be configured to respond to temperature changes without feedback control systems, power, or human intervention. One example of a thermal actuator may include a first segment of a first material, and a plurality of second segments of a second material, the second segments being coupled to the first segment and spaced apart from one another along the length of the first segment. |
| US09952005B2 |
Heat exchanger manifold and a heat exchanger equipped with such a manifold
Header for a heat exchanger and resulting heat exchanger are disclosed. The tubular header is of the type which can receive at least one connecting flange (5, 6) with an internal fluid passage (25), and is composed of: a header plate (8) with a longitudinally open wall, provided with slots intended to receive parallel fluid flow tubes; and a cover (9) which, after assembly, closes a longitudinal opening of said header plate, the wall of this cover having at least one external collar (28) delimiting a hole for the flow of fluid (27), said connecting flange (5, 6) being attached to said cover (9) and being configured in such a way that it can be crimped onto the header (3, 4), thereby bringing the internal passage (25) into fluid communication with the hole (27) in said collar. Advantageously, said collar (28) has a wall thickness (33) which is reduced relative to that of said cover (9) from which the collar extends, thereby maximizing the cross section of said hole (27) for the flow of fluid toward the internal passage (25) of said flange. |
| US09951997B2 |
Staged graphite foam heat exchangers
Shell-and-tube heat exchangers that utilize one or more foam heat transfer units engaged with the tubes to enhance the heat transfer between first and second fluids. The foam of the heat transfer units can be any thermally conductive foam material that enhances heat transfer. In an embodiment, a liquid distribution unit is employed that sprays a fluid to maximize the energy transfer through the use of large surface/volume ratio of the sprayed fluid. The spraying can be used in combination with or separately from the foam heat transfer units. Also, the tubes can be helically twisted around the liquid distribution unit so that the sprayed fluid impinges on the tubes. The shell-and-tube heat exchangers described herein are highly efficient, inexpensive to build, and corrosion resistant. The heat exchangers can be configured as an evaporator, a condenser, or for single phase cooling or heating thermal transfer applications. |
| US09951996B2 |
Refrigerant evaporator
In a refrigerant evaporator, a first refrigerant collector defined in a tank portion of a first evaporation unit is connected to a second refrigerant distributor defined in a tank portion of a second evaporation unit, and a second refrigerant collector defined in the tank portion of the first evaporation unit is connected to a first refrigerant distributor defined in the tank portion of the second evaporation unit. The refrigerant evaporator includes a connection channel to connect a first refrigerant channel that introduces refrigerant from a heat-exchange core portion of the first evaporation unit to a heat-exchange core portion of the second evaporation unit and a second refrigerant channel that introduces refrigerant from a heat-exchange core portion of the second evaporation unit to a heat-exchange core portion of the first evaporation unit. |
| US09951994B2 |
Modular air cooled condenser apparatus and method
A mechanical draft cooling tower employs air cooled condenser modules and operates by mechanical draft to exchange heat between atmospheric air and steam. The cooling tower utilizes a modular air cooled condenser with heat exchange deltas having tube bundles that are manufactured and assembled prior to being shipped to the tower site. |
| US09951986B1 |
Cooler with integrating ice-maker
The cooler with integrated ice-maker is a combination cooler and icemaker that takes the accumulated water created in a cooler from melting ice and recycles the accumulated water back into ice. The cooler with integrated ice-maker comprises a cooler, a removable drip shelf, a pump system, and an icemaker. |
| US09951983B2 |
Air conditioner
An outdoor unit control unit 200 has a defrosting operation condition table 300a that defines an activation rotational speed Cr in accordance with a total sum of flow rate coefficients Cva that is a total sum of flow rate coefficients Cv representing capacities of indoor expansion valves 52a to 52c. The outdoor unit control unit 200 calculates the total sum of the flow rate coefficients Cva by adding the flow rate coefficient Cv of each of the indoor expansion valves 52a to 52c, and refers to the defrosting operation condition table 300a, so as to determine the activation rotational speed Cr. Then, the outdoor unit control unit 200 activates a compressor 21 at the determined activation rotational speed Cr when starting a defrosting operation, maintains this activation rotational speed Cr for a predetermined time from the start of the defrosting operation, and drives the compressor 21. |
| US09951974B2 |
Flash tank economizer cycle control
A flash tank economizer includes a sensor for sensing a condition indicative of pressure in the flash tank, and when that pressure is found to equal or exceed the critical pressure of the particular refrigerant being used, a controller responsively closes a valve in the economizer vapor line to shut off the economizer. A sensor is also provided to sense the pressure at the compressor mid-stage, and if that pressure is found to exceed the pressure in the flash tank, the controller causes the flow control device to function so as to prevent the flow of refrigerant from the compressor mid-stage to the flash tank. Provision is also made for selectively draining refrigerant from the flash tank to reduce the pressure therein from a supercritical to a subcritical condition. |
| US09951970B2 |
Immediate hot-water supplying system
An immediate hot-water supplying system 1 includes a P hot water supply device 10 configured to heat water flowing through a first supply pipe 2, an N hot water supply device 30 configured to heat water flowing through a second supply pipe 3, a check valve 6, and a coupled controller 60 configured to, when the flow amount detected by a second flow amount sensor 34 is equal to or more than a hot-water-supply detection flow amount, perform a hot-water supply operation in which a first burner 12 or a second burner 32 is burned with a circulation pump 16 stopped, and when the flow amount detected by the second flow amount sensor 34 is less than the hot-water-supply detection flow amount, perform a circulation heat keeping operation in which the first burner 12 is burned with the circulation pump 16 activated. |
| US09951966B2 |
Air conditioner
An air conditioner includes an outdoor device and an indoor device. The outdoor device includes an outdoor control unit that is operated at the voltage of a smoothing capacitor; a power-supply switching relay to which a signal line is connected; an inrush-current preventing-relay drive unit that is operated when single-phase AC power is supplied between a power-signal common line and the signal line via an outdoor activation relay in the indoor device and the power-supply switching relay; a first inrush-current preventing relay that is connected in parallel with a power supply relay and is controlled by the inrush-current preventing-relay drive unit; and a second inrush-current preventing relay that is connected in parallel with the first inrush-current preventing relay and is controlled by the outdoor control unit. The outdoor control unit closes the second inrush-current preventing relay when the external power supply is interrupted. |
| US09951963B2 |
Hybrid heat pump apparatus
The present invention relates to a hybrid heat pump apparatus comprising: a housing having a first channel and a second channel formed therein; a dehumidifying rotor disposed in the housing; a heating unit disposed in the first channel and heating air passing therethrough; a cooling unit disposed in the second channel and selectively cooling air passing therethrough; a coolant circulating unit including a compressor, a first heat exchanger disposed in the second channel, a second heat exchanger, and a four-way valve; and a water circulating pipe through which water circulates and which is connected to the second heat exchanger for heat exchanging between the circulating water and coolant in the second heat exchanger. |
| US09951954B2 |
Liner assembly
A method of lining a turbofan casing (30) with an array (32) of liner modules (34), including the steps of: providing a liner module (34); and providing a coupling element (48) on the casing for interlocking engagement with the liner module to maintain the liner module in position relative to the casing; and interlockingly engaging the liner module (34) and coupling element (48) by progressive movement of the liner module relative to the coupling element. |
| US09951952B2 |
Hot surface igniters and methods of making same
A method of making a hot surface igniter is described. A silicon carbide composition that includes both fines fraction and a coarse fraction is sintered in a nitrogen and argon reducing atmosphere in a manner that controls the incorporation of nitrogen with in the lattice of recrystallized silicon carbide. The controlled incorporation of nitrogen in the lattice provides enhanced control over heating and electrical properties, while simultaneously achieving a lower surface area fully recrystallized structure for oxidation resistance and long service life. |
| US09951949B1 |
Ultra-high energy density and emissivity for energy conversion
A solid-state energy conversion device in combination with an ultra-high energy density buoyant combustor generating high radiant, and high emissivity “heat” achieves ultra-high energy conversion efficiency and ultra-high radiant/emissive “flame” preferably creating electromagnetic waves, hot carriers, photons, phonons and/or plasmons created within the high buoyancy combustor to achieve high energy conversion rates. The buoyant combustor can alternatively operate void of the solid-state energy conversion to replace a traditional burner for boiler/furnace. |
| US09951948B2 |
Fire pit gas delivery and pay-station system providing gas service on a pay-per-use basis
Embodiments of the invention relate to a gas fire pit delivery and pay-station system for providing a gas service on a pay-per-use basis. The system provides a multi pay-station or a single pay-station configuration connected to a main gas supply of pressurized gas whereby a control signal is provided by the pay-station to a plurality of electronically controlled gas valves for disabling or enabling the pressurized gas to flow to one or more fire pit stations. |
| US09951947B2 |
Incineration grate consisting of grate bars and method for fitting grate bars in and removing same from an incineration grate
An incineration grate includes several levels including first and second grate bars arranged in rows alongside one another and in rows one above another, forming step-shaped combustion surfaces with their upper supporting surfaces. At least once in an area of the upper supporting surfaces, the first grate bars form, over their width, a smaller supporting surface for fuel than that of the second grate bars via a first shoulder disposed inwards in a direction of a longitudinal center plane. In an area of the upper supporting surfaces, the second grate bars have a supporting surface with a larger width in order to form an overlap with the first grate bars via a second shoulder disposed outwards over the width of the first grate bars. The second grate bars have at least one pin configured to be introduced into a pocket in the first grate bars and increase the larger width. |
| US09951946B2 |
High-efficiency clean burning method and device of macromolecular substance
A high-efficiency clean burning method of a macromolecular substance, wherein the macromolecular substance comprises biomass and solid organic waste; the method comprises the following steps: generating a first gaseous substance and a red-hot carbon residue layer from biomass carbon residue or charcoal or coke or a mixture thereof by anoxic combustion; leading the heat generated by anoxic combustion to the macromolecular substance, preheating and drying the macromolecular substance and carrying out pyrolysis gasification, so as to generate a second gaseous substance; taking red-hot carbon residue as a pyrolysis catalyst, leading the second gaseous substance to the red-hot carbon residue layer to carry out oxygen catalytic cracking, so as to generate a third gaseous substance; leading the third gaseous substance and the first gaseous substance to an oxygen-enriched combustion zone in a heat preservation manner to carry out oxygen-enriched combustion, so as to achieve substantial complete combustion of all gasification products, wherein a tar wastewater is not generated, and pollution of smoke tar is not generated. A device capable of achieving the method comprises four categories of a plurality of devices. Thus, zero emission of “dioxin” can be achieved when the device is applied to waste incineration disposal. |
| US09951944B2 |
Adjustable gas grill burner and method of making and using the same
Adjustable gas grill burners are disclosed. Methods of making and using adjustable gas grill burners are also disclosed. |
| US09951934B2 |
Junction box for LED drivers
Junction boxes for enclosing and making electrical connections to LED drivers are disclosed. The junction boxes include a bottom or base and a cover. Dividers arising from the base divide the junction box into high-voltage and low-voltage compartments. A cut-out open at the top of each divider allows a driver to be placed in a junction box without having to pull wires through holes or openings. Typically, the base is open along the top and along at least a portion of one sidewall, with the cover being L- or U-shaped to complete the enclosure. Various mounting mechanisms are disclosed for securing drivers within junction boxes. Embodiments that can house several drivers or components within one junction box are disclosed, as are weather- and water-resistant embodiments. |
| US09951933B2 |
Outdoor lighting fixtures and related systems and methods
A system for mounting a light fixture to a structure includes a pivot base and a mount. The pivot base is pivot base coupled to the structure. The mount is configured for securing to the light fixture and for pivotally coupling to the pivot base, so that the light fixture is adjustably positionable in any one or more of a plurality of positions. The mount includes a plurality of adjustment points configured to allow the mount to be fixed in any of the one or more of a plurality of positions. |
| US09951927B2 |
Lighting device and luminaire
There is provided a lighting device (100) comprising a first tubular body (120), a second tubular body (130) within the first tubular body (120), and a support structure within the first tubular body (120). The support structure supports a plurality of Solid State Lighting (SSL) elements (160) on a support surface, said SSL elements being arranged to emit light under a range of angles including a first range. The support structure is fixed within the first tubular body (120) by the first tubular body (120) and the second tubular body (130). The support structure comprises a tube receiving member (156) extending from the support surface, said tube receiving member engaging with the second tubular body (130). |
| US09951924B2 |
LED illumination apparatus with internal reflector
An LED illumination apparatus includes a substrate, a light source disposed on the substrate, a cover unit covering the light source, and a reflector extending from the inside of the cover unit to the upper surface of the substrate, such that light generated by the light source illuminates an area below a bottom surface of the substrate. |
| US09951922B2 |
LED light unit and method of producing an LED light unit
An LED light unit comprises a support portion, a light source having at least one LED, the light source being arranged on the support portion and having a source-side light intensity distribution (LISS), and a refractive optical element having an inner surface and an outer surface, with at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface being non-spherical, the refractive optical element being arranged over the light source and being attached to the support portion. |
| US09951919B2 |
Microprojection lighting module for a motor vehicle headlight
The invention relates to a microprojection light module (1) for a motor vehicle headlight, comprising at least one light source (2) and at least one projection arrangement (3), which images the light exiting from the at least one light source (2) into a region in front of the motor vehicle in the form of at least one light distribution, wherein the projection arrangement (3) comprises: an entry optics (30), which consists of an array of micro entry optics (31); an exit optics (40), which consists of an array of micro exit optics (41), wherein each micro entry optics (31) is paired with exactly one micro exit optics (41), wherein the micro entry optics (31) are formed in such a way and/or the micro entry optics (31) and the micro exit optics (41) are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the light exiting from a micro entry optics (31) enters precisely only into the paired micro exit optics (41), and wherein the light pre-shaped by the micro entry optics (31) is imaged by the micro exit optics (41) into a region in front of the motor vehicle as at least one light distribution (LV1-LV5; GLV). |
| US09951917B2 |
Hybrid emergency exit lighting system
An emergency lighting system (ELS) for an aircraft has a capacitor, a light emitting diode (LED) selectively powered by the capacitor, and at least one of a photoluminescent sign and a photoluminescent panel configured to receive light emitted from the LED. |
| US09951916B2 |
Integrated ceiling and light system
An integrated ceiling and light system that incorporates a light module into a ceiling tile. The system may include a grid support system suspended from an overhead support structure that includes at least one grid support element and first and second ceiling tiles supported by the grid support element in an adjacent manner. A nesting cavity may be formed into the first and second ceiling tiles such that a light module may be disposed within the nesting cavity and coupled to the first and second ceiling tiles. The ceiling tiles may be of the type that conceals the grid support element on which it is supported. In one alternative embodiment, the light module and a nesting region of the ceiling tile may include corresponding edge profiles to facilitate mating therebetween to enable coupling of the light source to the ceiling tile. |
| US09951915B2 |
Planar strip light for installation in a plasterboard construction
The invention relates to a planar strip light for installation in a plasterboard construction, wherein the strip light comprises an optical unit which has a reflector and an LED panel, wherein the light-emitting side of the LED panel is arranged at the edge of the reflector and substantially perpendicular to the reflector in order to reduce the installation depth of the strip light, and wherein the strip light comprises fasteners for its direct fastening to the plasterboard construction. |
| US09951913B2 |
Light fixture comprising a carrier element and detachably securable lighting module
The invention relates to a light fixture (1) comprising an elongated carrier element (5), at least one lighting module (20), which can be detachable secured to the carrier element (5), and means for supplying power to the lighting module (20), said means comprising contacts arranged on the carrier element (5) or on one of the device carriers (50) held by the carrier element (5). In said light fixture, spring contacts (41) constitute at least some of the contacts. |
| US09951912B2 |
Tunable white light based on polarization sensitive light-emitting diodes
A lighting apparatus for emitting polarized white light, which includes at least a first light source for emitting primary light comprised of one or more first wavelengths and having a first polarization direction; and at least a second light source for emitting secondary light in the first polarization direction, comprised of one or more secondary wavelengths, wherein the first light and the secondary light are combined to produce a polarized white light. The lighting apparatus may further comprise a polarizer for controlling the primary light's intensity, wherein a rotation of the polarizer varies an alignment of its polarization axis with respect to the first polarization direction, which varies transmission of the primary light through the polarizer, which controls a color co-ordinate or hue of the white light. |
| US09951911B2 |
LED bulb
An LED light bulb has LEDs (32) mounted on a tubular carrier (22) with open ends. The tube (22) functions as a chimney to promote cooling by creating convection currents through the chimney. The cooling can be entirely passive or it may be active by incorporating a fan (50). |
| US09951905B2 |
Compressed natural gas storage and dispensing system
A compressed natural gas storage and dispensing system having descending pressure bulk storage banks in fluid communication with a supply source for CNG and high pressure storage banks in fluid communication with the descending pressure bulk storage bank, both banks being in fluid communication with fuel dispensers, wherein the delivery pressure of the CNG during simultaneous refueling of CNG powered vehicles is equalized. |
| US09951903B2 |
Digital display mounting and lift bracket
A digital display mounting and lift bracket can be employed to mount a display device to a wall or other surface or within an enclosure. The bracket can be configured to pivot between an open and a closed position. When the bracket is in the open position, a display device will be lifted upwardly thereby facilitating access to the rear surface of the display device. The bracket can then be returned to the closed position in which the display device will be properly oriented for use. |
| US09951900B2 |
External seal for isolating an elbow fitting
An external seal for sealing against an elbow fitting of a fluid line has an elbow clamp and a seal. The elbow clamp has a first part that is sized and shaped to engage the outer radiused curve of the elbow fitting, and a second part that engages the inner radiused curve of the elbow fitting. The first part defines a tool opening and a tool engagement profile sealingly engages a valve in axial alignment with the tool opening. A clamping member brings the first part into engagement with the outer radiused curve of the elbow fitting. The seal is adjacent to the first part of the elbow clamp in line with the tool opening and seals around the tool opening between the elbow clamp and the elbow fitting when the clamping force is applied. |
| US09951892B2 |
Polyamide resin composition, method for producing the same and refrigerant transporting hose
A polyamide resin composition is provided which contains an anti-aging agent together with a deterioration inhibitor, such as a metal compound or a silica-based inorganic compound, for preventing deterioration caused by, for example, an acid component or a halogen component contained in a refrigerant or an oil, and which satisfactorily produces an anti-aging effect expected by adding the anti-aging agent. For producing a polyamide resin composition containing an (a) polyamide resin, a (b) polyolefin-based elastomer, at least one (c) deterioration inhibitor selected from the group consisting of hydroxides, oxides and basic salts of divalent or trivalent metals, and silica-based inorganic compounds, and a (d) anti-aging agent, a mixture prepared by mixing and kneading the (c) deterioration inhibitor and (b) polyolefin-based elastomer and a mixture prepared by mixing and kneading the (a) polyamide resin and the (d) anti-aging agent are mixed and kneaded. |
| US09951886B2 |
Arrangement system and method for retrieving a laydown head
An arrangement for retrieving a laydown head to a surface vessel from a pipeline end section that is secured to a pipeline termination skid at the seabed. The arrangement is detachably mountable to the pipeline termination skid and comprises a base frame configured to bear against the pipeline termination skid when the arrangement is mounted to the pipeline termination skid; and one or more rigid supporting units provided on the base frame for supporting the laydown head from below, each supporting unit comprising an upwardly directed seat for receiving the laydown head and an actuating device for moving the seat in the vertical direction. Embodiments of the present invention also relate to a system comprising such an arrangement and a pipeline termination skid, and a method for retrieving a laydown head by means of such an arrangement. |
| US09951883B2 |
Apparatus and method of measuring coil current of hydraulic valve
Disclosed herein are an apparatus and method of measuring a coil current of a hydraulic valve. The apparatus includes a first coil current measurement unit configured to receive a first coil current control signal from a coil current control device during an ON operating section of the hydraulic valve in operating sections of the hydraulic valve operated by receiving power of a battery, and measure a first coil current value flowing through a coil of the hydraulic valve using a first switching element to be switched ON, and a second coil current measurement unit configured to receive a second coil current control signal from the coil current control device during an OFF operating section of the hydraulic valve in the operating sections of the hydraulic valve operated by receiving power of the battery, and measure a second coil current value flowing through the coil of the hydraulic valve using a second switching element to be switched ON. |
| US09951881B2 |
Solenoid operated unit for detecting and bleeding undesired fluid
A solenoid operated unit for detecting and bleeding undesired liquid present in desired liquid of different resistivity and specific gravity, the two liquids being immiscible with each other; with an electrical arrangement having a pair of parallel sensor pins and a pair of serial sensor pins. A dual function diaphragm ensures suitability for use with contaminated fluids. A pressure equalization outlet ensures smooth and speedy bleeding of undesired liquid. A modular mechanical sensor, when provided, provides redundancy such that desired fluid is not drained in situations of any electro-mechanical failure. |
| US09951879B2 |
Valve and fluid control apparatus
A valve includes a lower valve housing, a diaphragm, and an upper valve housing. A top surface of a piezoelectric pump is bonded to a bottom surface of the lower valve housing. A circular hole portion is provided in a central portion of a region of the diaphragm that opposes a projecting portion of the lower valve housing. The diaphragm is bonded to the upper valve housing and the lower valve housing, and a divided interior of a valve housing configures a first lower valve chamber, a second lower valve chamber, a first upper valve chamber, and a second upper valve chamber. A groove is located in a wall portion of the upper valve housing that opposes the diaphragm in the first upper valve chamber. |
| US09951878B2 |
Thermostat valve
The invention relates to a thermostat valve for a combustion engine, comprising a housing which comprises several connections, and comprising a hollow valve body which comprises a shell surface which is ball-shaped at least sectionally, which valve body is mounted in the housing rotatable about a rotational axis by a rotational drive, wherein the valve body comprises at least one main opening and at least one control opening, wherein at least the control opening is limited by the shell surface and can be selectively brought into overlap with one of the connections of the housing by rotating the valve body, wherein the shell surface comprises at least one deepening in relation to the surrounding surface of the shell surface adjacent to the at least one control opening limited by the shell surface, wherein the deepening is provided such that upon rotation of the valve body, in order to bring the at least one control opening into overlap with one of the connections of the housing, fluid can flow through the deepening between the connection of the housing and the control opening already before an overlap between the at least one control opening and the connection of the housing. |
| US09951875B2 |
Butterfly valve with strut
A valve assembly includes a valve body having a valve body central axis. A valve actuator is operably connected to the valve body and is located such that a central axis of the valve actuator is nonparallel to the valve body central axis. A strut extends from the valve body to the valve actuator to support the valve actuator in a fixed relationship to the valve body. A pneumatically-actuated butterfly valve includes a valve body having a valve body central axis and a valve disc. A pneumatic actuator is located such that its central axis is nonparallel to the valve body central axis. The actuator includes a piston disposed in a cylinder, the piston operably connected to the valve disc. A strut extends from the valve body to support the actuator in a fixed relationship to the valve body. |
| US09951871B2 |
Brush seal assembly
A brush seal assembly may seal a gap between a diaphragm and a rotor of a turbine. The brush seal assembly includes a brush, one end of which is inserted in a rotor facing surface of a diaphragm while the other end thereof protrudes toward a rotor, and a support strip spaced apart from one side of the brush so that one side end portion of the support strip is fixed and the other side end portion thereof supports one side of the brush. |
| US09951869B2 |
Seal for belled pipe
A sealing ring for connecting a belled end of a female pipe to a spigot end of a male pipe is disclosed. The sealing ring includes a sealing portion joined to a restraining portion. Preferably the sealing portion is made of an elastomeric material and the reinforcing portion is made of a polymer and does not include a metal reinforcement. |
| US09951868B2 |
Piston ring comprising a groove in the circumferential direction
A piston ring for an internal combustion engine or for a compressor, in particular a piston ring includes an exterior running surface (3), two flanks (5, 6), and an interior circumferential surface (7); the running surface (3) has a profiled section with a groove (2), the groove (2) being located between an upper portion (3′) of the running surface and a lower portion (3″) of the running surface in relation to the cross-section of the piston ring (1). |
| US09951867B2 |
Piston damper
A piston damper has a cylinder including an attachment portion; a piston reciprocatingly disposed inside the cylinder; and a rod including an attachment portion that is moved synchronously with the piston. Each of the attachment portions of the cylinder and the rod is adapted to connect to different one of a first member and a second member to damp a movement of the other member relative to one member among both the members. At least one of the attachment portion of the cylinder and the attachment portion of the rod is formed with a fitting hole, and the attachment portion is axially supported in a fitted state between the fitting hole and an axis relative to at least one of the first member and the second member, and includes an urging device absorbing looseness of the fitting hole relative to the axis. |
| US09951866B2 |
Shift apparatus
A shift apparatus mounted on a vehicle includes: a shift switching member including valley sections according to a shift position; a positioning member provided to establish the shift position in a state of being fitted into any of the valley sections; an actuator for driving the shift switching member; and a driving force transmission mechanism including a driving-side member on an actuator side and a driven-side member on a shift switching member side, and rotating the shift switching member, wherein the driving-side and driven-side members are able to relatively rotate in an engaged state by a predetermined amount of backlash, and a position of a valley bottom of the valley section is configured to be learned, based on a difference between rotational angles on the actuator side and the shift switching member side. |
| US09951862B2 |
Drive device, image forming apparatus, and grease composition
A drive device includes a gear having a hole; a shaft that passes through the hole; and a grease composition that is held in a clearance between the shaft and an inner peripheral surface of the hole. The gear rotates on a peripheral surface of the shaft. At least one of the gear and the shaft is made of a resin. The clearance is in a range of 10 to 110 μm. The grease composition contains a hydrocarbon base oil and lithium soap serving as a thickener. A weight ratio of the hydrocarbon base oil to the lithium soap is in a range of 94.5:5.5 to 96.0:4.0. A consistency of the grease composition is in a range of 360 to 400. |
| US09951860B2 |
Ring gear mounting arrangement with oil scavenge scheme
An epicyclic gear train for a turbine engine includes a gutter with an annular channel. A rotating structure includes a ring gear that has an aperture that is axially aligned with the annular channel. Axially spaced apart walls extend radially outward relative to the rotating structure to define a passageway. The passageway is arranged radially between and axially aligned with the aperture and the annular channel. The walls are configured to inhibit an axial flow of an oil passing from the aperture toward the annular channel. |
| US09951859B2 |
Gearset with an air-guiding cover
A gearset includes a gearset housing, a drive shaft, and a radial fan fixed to the drive shaft. Disposed in surrounding relationship to the radial fan is an air-guiding cover which includes a gearset housing section to at least partially cover the gearset housing, a cylindrical section adjoining the gearset housing section and configured to receive an attachment for securement to the drive shaft, and a conical section adjoining the cylindrical section. The conical section of the air-guiding cover is disposed in surrounding relationship to the radial fan directly and without any dead space. |
| US09951858B2 |
Thermal bypass valve using shape memory alloys
A transmission fluid circuit for regulating the flow of a fluid includes a transmission, a cooler, and a valve. The valve includes a housing, a spool, and an actuator including a smart material. The spool is movable inside the housing between a first position and a second position. The smart material is configured to be in an activated state in response to the fluid exhibiting at least a first temperature and to be in a deactivated state in response to the fluid being a sufficient number of degrees less than the first temperature. The fluid flows from the housing to the transmission and from the transmission to the housing when the spool is in the first position. The fluid flows from the housing to the cooler, from the cooler to the transmission, and from the transmission to the housing when the spool is in the second position. |
| US09951855B2 |
Cam follower and method for producing cam follower
A cam follower is constituted by an outer ring which has an outer track surface in its inner circumference; a stud which has an inner track surface opposed to the outer track surface, a flange portion abutting on one side of the inner track surface, a side plate fitting portion and a mounting shaft portion abutting on another side of the inner track surface in this order, and a fiber flow formed continuously from the flange portion to the inner track surface along their outer circumferences; rolling elements which are arranged between the outer track surface and inner track surface; and an inner side plate which is pressed into the side plate fitting portion to work with the flange portion for limiting axial movement of the outer ring and the rolling elements. |
| US09951854B2 |
Differential gear set assembling method and differential gear set assembling device
A differential gear set assembling method includes: a pivoting step of closing openings by guide portion and pivoting a pair of pinions between a pair of side gears; and an insertion step of inserting a pinion shaft into a pair of case shaft holes and a pair of pinion shaft holes from outside the differential case. The pivoting step is performed in a state where projecting portions are buried in the guide portions. The insertion step is performed in a state where the projecting portions are projected from the guide portions toward the pair of side gears, and the pair of side gears are pressed by the projecting portions so as to apply loads against biasing forces of coned disc springs to the pair of side gears. |
| US09951852B2 |
Torque converter stator including pocket
A stator for a torque converter is provided. The stator includes a plurality of blades, a one-way clutch and a body supporting the blades. The body receives the one-way clutch therein and includes a pocket formed therein radially outside of the one-way clutch. A method of forming a torque converter is also provided. The method includes forming a pocket in a body of a stator. The stator includes a plurality of blades supported by the body. The body includes a recess radially inside of the pocket. The method also includes axially pressing an outer race of a one-way clutch into the recess. A torque converter is also provided. |
| US09951850B2 |
Drive assembly for an electric drive
A drive assembly for a motor vehicle has a multi-step transmission and a differential drive. The multi-step transmission comprises a rotatingly drivable driveshaft and an intermediate shaft parallel to the driveshaft, and at least one first transmission stage and a second transmission stage for transmitting torque from the driveshaft to the intermediate shaft with different transmission ratios, as well as a shift unit, wherein the intermediate shaft comprises an output gear for transmitting torque to a differential carrier of the differential drive, wherein a rotational axis of the differential carrier extends parallel to the intermediate shaft, wherein the output gear and the shift unit are arranged axially between the at least two transmission stages, and wherein the driveshaft comprises bores for supplying lubricant. |
| US09951839B2 |
Preloading device for a piston valve of a vibration damper
A preloading device for a piston valve of a vibration damper includes a spring element which is fitted by an inner diameter onto a radially inner centering device which serves for inner centering of the spring element in the installed state of the preloading device. To provide a preloading device for a piston valve by which a reliable inner centering of a spring element can be ensured but which can be placed with low expenditure on assembly at the same time, the spring element is axially fixed at the centering device via retaining means in that the retaining means at least partially enclose the spring element axially on both sides and are rigidly connected to the centering device in each instance. |
| US09951836B2 |
Shock absorber system for a vehicle
The present invention relates to a shock absorber system for a vehicle comprising a main unit (100) adapted to be deformed in the event of an impact with a first energy level and a secondary unit (200) shorter in length than the main unit (100), adapted to be subjected to loads as a complement of the main unit (100), after a first deformation phase of the main unit (100), when the system receives an impact with a second energy level greater than the first, the secondary unit (200) being configured to orient the resultant of a force applied on a downstream structure (30) in a direction not parallel to the longitudinal axis of this downstream structure. |
| US09951835B2 |
Window system
A window system is disclosed. The window system includes a window which has a first window pane spatially separated from a second window pane. The window panes are surrounded by a window frame, which houses a memory device for storing electronic data. |
| US09951834B1 |
Systems and methods for detecting wear of brake pads
The disclosure includes a system for indicating wear of a brake pad attached to a vehicle. The system can include a pad holder, a brake pad mechanically coupled to the pad holder, and a sensing device coupled to the brake pad and located at least partially within the cavity. The sensing device can include a first electrode and a second electrode embedded within the sensing device. The first electrode and the second electrode can measure electrical resistivity of an electrically conductive material located within the sensing device. The electrical resistivity can indicate a thickness of the internal portion of the brake pad after the internal portion has been eroded by the rotating portion of the wheel. |
| US09951833B2 |
Brake assembly having a brake wing
A brake assembly for a vehicle. The brake assembly may have a brake wing that includes a panel, a first flange, and a second flange. The first and second flanges may extend from the panel such that the second flange extends from the first flange. |
| US09951829B2 |
Control system for vehicle
A selectable one-way clutch includes an engagement mechanism. The engagement mechanism is configured to be switched between an engaged state and a disengaged state. The engaged state is a state in which relative rotation between a first and a second members in one of a positive rotational direction and a reverse rotational direction is restricted. The disengaged state is a state in which the relative rotation between the first member and the second member in both of the positive and the reverse rotational direction is permitted. The electronic control unit is configured to apply torque to the one of the first member or the second member by using a motor such that relative rotation in the other one of the positive or the reverse rotational direction is generated between the first member and the second member when the engagement mechanism is switched from the engaged state to the disengaged state. |
| US09951828B2 |
Unidirectional torque coupling and method of use
A torque coupling comprising a drive body, an output side body which is coaxially arranged, a pressure disk which is coaxially arranged, movable in rotation coaxial direction, and having a first torque transmission surface on its face side, and a torque transmission device. The torque transmission device (5) comprises rigid pressure transfer elements (6) loadable by compressive forces only upon a gripping of the non driven by the driven torque transmission surface which points in drive direction (A), thereby moving in rotation coaxial direction contrary to the pressure disk (3), and pressing the same in direction of the second torque transmission surface (4B). |
| US09951821B1 |
Drive shaft coupling
A drive shaft coupling for connecting a rotating tube cleaning shaft to a tube cleaning machine wherein high pressure fluid is pumped through the coupling, wherein the coupling is sealed to contain the high pressure fluid, and wherein a machine driven rotary flexible shaft passes through the coupling. |
| US09951816B2 |
Bearing part, rolling bearing, and method for manufacturing bearing part
An outer ring, an inner ring, and a ball each serving as a bearing part is made of a steel containing 0.95 mass % or more and 1.10 mass % or less of carbon, 0.05 mass % or more and less than 0.3 mass % of silicon, 0.10 mass % or more and 0.50 mass % or less of manganese, and 1.30 mass % or more and 2.00 mass % or less of chromium, with the rest made up of iron and an impurity. A surface layer region defined as a region extending to a depth of not more than 20 μm from an outer ring raceway surface, an inner ring raceway surface, and a ball rolling surface, which are each a surface where the bearing part is in rolling contact with another part, has an average nitrogen concentration of 0.2 mass % or more and 0.7 mass % or less. Five or more carbides with a diameter of 0.5 μm or less are present per 100 μm2 in the surface layer region. |
| US09951812B2 |
High capacity bearing
A high load capacity bearing that includes a cylindrical outer sleeve that fits around a separable cylindrical outer race assembly. The outer race assembly includes a set of non-helical grooves formed on its inside surface that mesh and engage teeth formed on the outside surface of a plurality of rotating rollers that are longitudinally and axially aligned inside the outer race assembly. The rollers are longitudinally aligned and evenly space apart and rotated as a unit inside the outer race assembly. Located inside the rollers is an inner race with non-helical grooves formed on its outside surface that mesh and engage the teeth on the rollers. The inner race includes a smooth inside bore that fits around the support surface on a shaft. During use, the inner race is becomes fixed on a support surface on a shaft and the outer sleeve and outer race assembly are mounted on a part. |
| US09951811B2 |
Bearing
A bearing includes a bearing pad for supporting a rotary component and a housing attached to or formed integrally with the bearing pad. The housing includes a flexible column extending towards the bearing pad for providing the bearing pad with an airflow. The column supports the bearing pad from a location inward of an outer periphery of the bearing pad along an axial direction of the bearing. With such a configuration, a resistance of the bearing pad along a radial direction of the bearing is less at the outer periphery than a resistance of the bearing pad along the radial direction proximate the column. |
| US09951807B2 |
Half bearing
A half bearing includes a bearing body having a semi-circular tube shape with mating surfaces and that come into contact with a half bearing, and an oil groove that is provided on the sliding surface and extends in a rotational direction of a shaft. The oil groove has a curved shape in a cross section parallel to the shaft direction, the width of the oil groove is uniform in a range of at least ±30° in a cross section orthogonal to the shaft direction, and the width of the oil groove is smaller than the width in the range, in at least a region on the downstream side in the rotational direction among regions outside of the range. |
| US09951803B2 |
Nozzle and fastening element for fastening a material layer
The invention relates to a nozzle (10) for fastening a material layer to a substructure, comprising a plate (12) and a hollow shank (14), integrally formed thereon, for taking a fastening screw (24; 34), wherein a stepped bore (16) is provided in the hollow shank, wherein the stepped bore (16) comprises at least two steps (28; 38; 50) between at least three regions (18; 30; 36; 2), wherein the hollow shank (14) is formed so as to taper at least partially in a conical manner on an external surface, wherein the hollow shank (14) is provided with radially expandable elements, and wherein the expandable elements are formed as axial grooves (40) externally in that part of the hollow shank (14) that is formed in a conically tapering manner. The invention proposes that the grooves (10) are each provided at the groove base at least partially with a thin bottom (42) that is stretchable or breakable by the expansion. The present invention also relates to a fastening element comprising a nozzle (10) according to the invention and a fastening screw (24; 34). |
| US09951800B2 |
Surface plasma actuator
A surface plasma actuator includes a conducting wire attached to a surface of a target object and electrically insulated from the target object. Surface plasma is generated along a neighborhood of the conducting wire by applying a pulse voltage between the conducting wire and a conductive portion on a side of the target object. An induced gas flow is generated by the surface plasma. |
| US09951799B2 |
Fluid pressure cylinder and twist-type clamp device technical field
An open/shut valve mechanism for detecting that a piston member of a hydraulic pressure cylinder has reached an unclamp position comprises: a valve body reception hole that communicates with a unclamp hydraulic pressure operating chamber, a valve body movably received in the valve body reception hole and having an annular concave engagement portion on its external circumferential portion; a spherical body that is movably installed in a cylinder main body and that can engage with the concave engagement portion; and an engagement portion that is formed on an auxiliary rod and with which the spherical body can engage; and when hydraulic pressure is charged into the unclamp hydraulic pressure operating chamber and the piston member has reached its unclamp position, the valve body receives the hydraulic pressure, a portion of the spherical body engages to the engagement portion and the valve body changes over to the valve closed position; and, when the piston member has shifted from its unclamp position, the spherical body engages with the annular concave engagement portion without engaging to the engagement portion, so that the valve body is held in its open position. |
| US09951796B2 |
Hydraulic accumulator
A hydraulic accumulator, in particular a low-pressure accumulator, has an accumulator housing (2) and a separating element, in particular in the form of an accumulator bladder (22) separating two media chambers (3, 5) in the housing (2). The accumulator housing (2) is formed of at least two shells (8, 10) welded together at their opposing end regions (24). |
| US09951794B2 |
Engine with supercharger
A combustion engine for a motorcycle includes a supercharger which pressurizes intake air. The supercharger is driven by power of the combustion engine. A first cushioning body which suppresses rotation fluctuation of power is provided on a power transmission path leading from the combustion engine to the supercharger. The first cushioning body has a damper structure to transmit power from an upstream side to a downstream side thereof through an elastic body. |
| US09951791B2 |
Air conditioner
An air conditioner including an improved airflow regulator is configured to easily regulate the airflow. The air conditioner includes a fan assembly configured to blow air a diffuser assembly configured to include a center panel and a grill arranged at the outside of the center panel such that the air blown by the fan assembly flows through a flow passage formed between the center panel and the grill; and an airflow regulator configured to rotate the diffuser assembly so as to change a direction of the flow passage. |
| US09951788B2 |
Impeller and blower
An impeller is arranged to rotate about a central axis, and includes a disk-shaped portion arranged to extend radially with respect to the central axis, and a plurality of rotor blades arranged along a circumferential direction on one surface of the disk-shaped portion. Each rotor blade has one end arranged at an outer edge portion of the disk-shaped portion, and an opposite end arranged radially inward of the outer edge portion of the disk-shaped portion. The rotor blades include a plurality of first rotor blades each of which includes a first curvature portion and a plurality of second curvature portions. A center of the radius of curvature of the first curvature portion of each first rotor blade is arranged on a first side of the first rotor blade with respect to the circumferential direction. A center of the radius of curvature of each second curvature portion of each first rotor blade is arranged on a second side of the first rotor blade with respect to the circumferential direction. The first curvature portion is arranged radially inward of each second curvature portion. Regarding adjacent ones of the second curvature portions, the radius of curvature of the second curvature portion arranged radially outward is greater than the radius of curvature of the second curvature portion arranged radially inward. |
| US09951786B2 |
Centrifugal pump impellor with novel balancing holes that improve pump efficiency
A centrifugal pump impellor includes balancing holes that reduce axial thrust while minimizing the loss of pump efficiency. In one general aspect, the balancing holes penetrate the rear shroud between the blades, and are angled in both axial and rotational directions so as to direct the leakage fluid approximately parallel to the primary process fluid, so that it causes minimal interference with the primary fluid flow. In a second general aspect, the balancing holes extend from the rear cavity within the impellor blades and through the leading edges of the blades, thereby entering the primary flow in locations where the process fluid is almost static relative to the blades. This minimizes the impact on the flow of the process fluid past the blades, and thereby minimizes the loss of pump efficiency caused by the balance holes. In embodiments, each blade leading edge includes a plurality of balancing hole outlets. |
| US09951784B2 |
Mechanically-coupled turbomachinery configurations and cooling methods for hermetically-sealed high-temperature operation
A hermetically-sealed turbomachine, such as a motor-driven blower and a turbine driven generator, capable of reliable high-temperature operation, especially for large sized turbomachine includes a hot blower, compressor or turbine end of the turbomachine that is separated from the cooler electric motor, generator or alternator end of the turbomachine by a compliant mechanical coupling and a thermal choke assembly. The turbomachine housing is also hermetically sealed, providing control over the process gas within the machine housing, and permitting an internal cooling method within the turbomachine, whereby a small amount of process gas itself is used within the turbomachine for providing cooling of the rotating shafts, the axial fan, radial fan, or turbine impeller, the bearings and the electric motor, generator or alternator disposed within the turbomachine housing. The cooling method can be aided by a heat exchanger operatively communicating with the turbomachine. |
| US09951778B2 |
Permanent magnet motor pump
A structural improvement of the canned pump is to improve the stiffness of a stationary shaft and, according to requirement, to dispose a monitor device. The method for improving the stiffness of the stationary shaft includes axially inserting a shaft metal rear support of the metal structural of a motor rear casing of a canned motor into the inner side of a rotor yoke of an inner rotor of the canned motor, tightly attaching the shaft metal rear support to a rear shaft seat for improving the stiffness of the stationary shaft by longer hold length, and for shortening an arm length of the composite force. The monitor device, used for detecting the wear of a bearing for enhancing the reliability and satisfying the driving requirement, is installed in the ring slot to be protected by the rear shaft seat. |
| US09951777B2 |
Molten metal pump
A molten metal pump includes an impeller, a pump base housing at least partially enclosing the impeller, a shaft connected to the impeller, a motor connected to the shaft, a motor mount plate for supporting the motor; and a post for connecting the motor mount plate to the pump base housing. The molten metal pump can include a connector that connects the post to the motor mount plate. The molten metal pump can include a socket for connecting the shaft to the motor. The shaft can comprise an assembly including an elongated metal rod having a first end and a second end and a metal non-circular drive member attached at the second end of the elongated metal rod. The impeller can include a cap member having a plurality of generally polygonally shaped inlet openings communicating with internal passages of the impeller, each inlet opening having an inner wall and an outer wall, the outer wall being longer than the inner wall, each inlet opening also including a leading wall and a trailing wall, the leading wall and the trailing wall each interconnecting the inner wall and the outer wall and each being inclined such that an uppermost edge of each wall precedes a lowermost edge of each wall in a first rotational direction. |
| US09951776B2 |
Compressor intake mixer system
A compressor intake mixer system for internal combustion gas engines having a compressed charge bypass system comprises a bypass charge and fuel pre-mixer connected in line with the charge bypass system to reduce pressure gradient between the high pressure bypass charge and the low pressure fuel. A single volume main mixer is connected to the compressor inlet downstream of the pre-mixer to mix the flow of premixed charge and air and provide a mixed gas to the compressor inlet. Thus a need for a separate volume for a fuel mixer and a bypass mixer is eliminated and a single volume is provided at the compressor inlet. The locational constraint of necessarily locating the volumes at the compressor inlet is also obviated by providing a pre-mixer. |
| US09951773B2 |
Scroll compressor with recesses and protrusions
A compressor is provided. The compressor may include a fixed wrap, and an orbiting scroll having an orbiting wrap engaged with the fixed wrap to form compression chambers. The fixed wrap and the orbiting wrap may have irregular wrap curves. At least one interference avoiding portion at which a spacing between the wraps is greater than an orbiting radius or at least one gap compensating portion at which the spacing between the wraps is smaller than the orbiting radius, in a state in which a center of the fixed scroll and a center of the orbiting scroll are aligned with each other, may be provided on a sidewall surface of the fixed wrap or the orbiting wrap, whereby frictional loss or abrasion due to interference between the wraps or a refrigerant leakage due to a gap between the wraps may be prevented. |
| US09951770B2 |
Valve device and high pressure pump using the same
A valve seat has an inner passage and outer passages. A suction valve member has first passages and a first projection portion that guides, to the first passages, the fuel that flows from a pressure chamber at the time of valve opening. Therefore, an action force by the dynamic pressure applied to the suction valve member in the valve closing direction is reduced. An action force by the pressure of fuel that flows into pressure equalization grooves counterbalances the action force by the dynamic pressure of the suction valve member. Therefore, self-closing by the dynamic pressure can be inhibited, and the maximum output of an electromagnetic driving unit can be reduced. Fuel flows through a passage radially outside the suction valve member and the first passages. A fluid passage area is securable even when a lift amount of the suction valve member is small. |
| US09951765B2 |
Linear compressor, shell for linear compressor, and method for manufacturing shell of linear compressor
A linear compressor, a shell for a linear compressor, and a method for manufacturing a shell of a linear compressor are provided. The shell may have at least one portion having a multilayer plate, in which at least two plates may be stacked in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axis of a piston so as to accommodate a cylinder, the piston, which may be reciprocated within the cylinder, and a motor assembly directly connected to the piston to provide a drive force to the piston. At least one resonator may be disposed in or at at least a portion of an inner surface of the shell. |
| US09951758B2 |
Rotational actuators
An actuator includes a drum defining a longitudinal axis and having axially opposed first and second end portions that are rotatable relative to one another about the longitudinal axis. A shape memory element is wrapped around the drum and extends from the first end portion of the drum to the second end portion of the drum to actuate relative rotation of the first and second end portions of the drum about the longitudinal axis by activation of the shape memory element. |
| US09951756B2 |
Pipeline system for a solar power plant
The invention relates to a pipeline system for a linearly concentrating solar power plant (1) with at least one receiver line (13), in which a heat transfer medium is heated by radiating solar energy, or with a central receiver and at least one emptying tank (21) and/or one store for the heat transfer medium, the heat transfer medium having a vapor pressure of less than 0.5 bar at the maximum operating temperature. Furthermore, a gas displacement system (31) is comprised, which connects gas spaces in the at least one emptying tank (21) and/or in the store for the heat transfer medium to one another and which has a central gas store (35) and/or a central gas connection (37) and a central exhaust gas outlet (39), through which gas can be discharged into the surroundings. |
| US09951755B2 |
Brake and processing device using the same for a cutter device in processing apparatus
A processing device includes a mounting base, a cutter holder, and a brake. The brake includes a driving member, a resisting member, and an elastic member. The driving member includes a main body and a driving shaft movably placed in the main body. The driving shaft is driven to move in a straight line by the main body. One end of the driving shaft is movably coupled to the cutter holder, and another end of the driving shaft is coupled to the resisting member. The elastic member is positioned between the main body and the resisting member. The driving shaft is configured to move toward one side of the driving member adjacent to the elastic member under an elastic restoring force of the elastic member, whereby the cutter holder moves with the driving shaft toward one end of the driving member adjacent to the elastic member. |
| US09951754B2 |
System and method for assembling tower sections of a wind turbine lattice tower structure
In one aspect, a method for assembling a tower section of a lattice tower structure for a wind turbine on a tower assembly fixture may generally include installing a first trolley onto a first fixture arm of the fixture and installing a second trolley onto a second fixture arm of the fixture. In addition, the method may include securing a first support leg of the tower section to the first trolley, securing a second support leg of the tower section to the second trolley and coupling at least one secondary support member between the first and seconds support legs. |
| US09951751B2 |
Segmented wind turbine rotor blade with rod and tube joint connection
A blade segment for a wind turbine rotor blade may generally include a body shell terminating at a joint end. The body shell may include a pressure side and a suction side extending between a leading edge and a trailing edge. The blade segment may also include a plurality of pressure side tubes extending adjacent to the pressure side of the body shell and a plurality of suction side tubes extending adjacent to the suction side of the body shell, with the plurality of pressure side tubes being spaced apart from the plurality of suction side tubes along a flapwise direction of the rotor blade. |
| US09951749B2 |
System and method for trailing edge noise reduction of a wind turbine blade
A system and method for reducing the operational noise of a blunt trailing edge of a wind turbine blade is described. The system involves increasing the trailing edge solid angle at the blade trailing edge by providing a wedge element or projection adjacent the trailing edge of the blade, the wedge element acting to provide improved mixing of the suction side and pressure side flows at the blunt trailing edge, thereby reducing the strength of vortex shedding at the trailing edge and the associated operational noise. |
| US09951745B2 |
Axial flow water turbine
An axial flow water turbine according to an embodiment includes a discharge ring and a runner vane. When seen in the runner meridional cross section, a straight line that passes a border between a cylindrical surface and a spherical surface of the discharge ring and that is perpendicular to a water turbine rotation axis is denoted as A. A crossing point between the straight line A and the water turbine rotation axis is denoted as B. A straight line inclined by an angle θ of 10 degrees or less is denoted as C. A cross point between the straight line C and the external peripheral end surface of the runner vane is denoted as D. In this case, the external peripheral end of the forward edge of the runner vane is located on the crossing point D. |
| US09951744B2 |
Optimized multiple laser ignition plug
An ignition device for an internal combustion engine includes optical focusing lenses, including a center optical focusing lens and satellite optical focusing lens. The center optical focusing lens focuses laser light from a laser generator to a center ignition point in a combustion chamber of a cylinder of the internal combustion engine. The satellite optical focusing lenses focus laser light from the laser generator to satellite ignition points in the combustion chamber of the cylinder of the internal combustion engine. The satellite optical focusing lenses are directionally angled away from the center optical focusing lens. A firing depth of the center ignition point is greater than a firing depth of the at least one satellite ignition point. |
| US09951743B2 |
Plasma ignition device
An igniter includes a central electrode terminating in a firing portion including a plurality of prong tiers distributed axially on the firing portion. Each prong tier including at least one firing prong extending radially outward from the firing portion. The igniter body includes a port end to be received into an engine igniter port, and a shank. The firing portion of the central electrode extends from the shank opposing the port end. A dielectric casing can fully encapsulate the firing portion of the central electrode to define a dielectric barrier adjacent the firing prong. The igniter may include a generally cylindrical ground electrode defining a discharge cavity surrounding the central electrode. The ground electrode includes a plurality of ground prongs defined by the ground electrode and extending radially toward the firing portion. A plurality of apertures defined by the ground electrode are in fluid communication with the discharge cavity. |
| US09951741B2 |
Predictive correction in internal combustion engines
A method and system for reducing cycle to cycle variation of an engine is provided. The system may determine fuel injection characteristics and predict a gas burning rate or flame speed based on the fuel injection characteristics. The system may adjust an ignition timing in response to the predicted gas burning rate within the same engine cycle. |
| US09951740B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine includes a combustion chamber, a fuel injector injecting fuel into the combustion chamber, a cylinder, a piston having a crown and reciprocating in the cylinder, the crown being exposed to the combustion chamber, and an ignition delay enhancer prolonging an ignition delay of a fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. A ceramic member is disposed on at least a fuel injection port, to which fuel is injected from the fuel injector, of the crown of the piston. |
| US09951737B2 |
Fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine (1) has a plurality of combustion cylinders at each of which a fuel injection device (120) is provided. Every combustion cylinder is provided with its own pilot unit (10c-10f) with a fuel accumulator which is integrated therein and which is connected by one of a plurality of first fuel lines (110) to the fuel injection device associated with the respective combustion cylinder for supplying fuel to the latter. A fuel pump which can be connected to a fuel source for supplying a predetermined fuel pressure is integrated in at least one of the pilot units (10d). The fuel accumulator of every pilot unit is so adapted that it ensures that fuel delivered by the fuel pump is supplied to the respective associated fuel injection device in a pressure-stable manner. |
| US09951736B2 |
Fuel injector tip
A fuel injector tip for a fuel injector. The fuel injector tip includes an inner tip surface and an outer tip surface that is opposite to the inner tip surface. At least one orifice extends through the fuel injector tip from the inner tip surface to the outer tip surface, and is configured to atomize fuel flowing therethrough to generate a fuel mist. The fuel injector tip is three-dimensionally printed. |
| US09951731B2 |
Fuel injection valve and manufacturing method for fuel injection valve
A holder of a fuel injection valve is press-inserted to a housing of the fuel injection valve so as to be fixed to the housing, a cap of the fuel injection valve includes a notch portion for notching an annular portion, and is arranged in such a way that an inner circumference surface of the cap is faced to an outer circumference surface of a core of the fuel injection valve via a gap, and an electrode terminal of the fuel injection valve is connected to a terminal of a solenoid of the fuel injection valve via the notch portion of the cap. |
| US09951730B2 |
Fuel pump assembly
The invention relates to a fuel pump assembly for a motor vehicle, which can be upstream of a fuel pump of the motor vehicle in a fuel line of the motor vehicle, having a pump housing and a pump device arranged thereupon, by means of which fuel can be pumped into and/or through the pump housing when the pump device is in the active state thereof, wherein the pump device has at least one stroke piston pump having an inlet valve and an outlet valve which are opened and closed in alternation by pressure activation when the pump device is active. In order to provide a fuel pump assembly which enables a very energy efficient operation of a motor vehicle thereby equipped, according to the invention the inlet valve and the outlet valve are held in the open positions thereof when the pump device is inactive. |
| US09951724B2 |
Heat exchanger having wave fin plate for reducing EGR gas pressure difference
Disclosed is a heat exchanger including: a heat exchanger body; a gas inlet for introducing exhaust gas into the heat exchanger body; a coolant inlet for introducing a coolant into the heat exchanger body; a gas outlet for discharging the exhaust gas that is cooled by heat exchange with the coolant; and a coolant outlet for discharging the coolant that completes heat exchange with the exhaust gas. In this case, the heat exchanger body includes: a laminated tube core formed by laminating a plurality of gas channels side by side; a housing formed so as to enclose the laminated tube core except for opposite ends thereof; and a wave fin plate integrally provided with a plurality of wave fins and arranged within each of the gas channels, wherein each of the wave fins includes a fixed pitch section, and a variable pitch section. |
| US09951718B2 |
Automatic bifurcation latch systems for a thrust reverser
A nacelle may include a pylon and a thrust reverser having an inner fixed structure. A locking mechanism may automatically engage and prevent relative movement between a thrust reverser half and the pylon. A bumper may be coupled to the inner fixed structure. The locking mechanism may limit deflections between the thrust reverser and the pylon in response to a burst duct. The locking mechanism may allow the thrust reverser halves to be opened for access to the engine. |
| US09951713B2 |
Fuel injection apparatus
A fuel injection apparatus includes: an injector disposed at a position offset from an ignition plug toward an intake port and injecting a fuel spray toward a crown surface of a piston, and an injection controller causing the injector to perform injection in accordance with an amount and timing of fuel injection preset in accordance with an operating state of an engine. The piston includes: a first recess formed by recessing a central portion of the crown surface and a second recess formed by recessing part of the first recess on an injector side further than the first recess. The injector injects 50% or more of fuel to be injected for the last fuel injection toward the second recess during a compression stroke, and injects part of the fuel to be injected for the last fuel injection toward an area of the first recess other than the second recess. |
| US09951712B2 |
Internal combustion engine with interbore cooling
An engine has a cylinder block with first and second cylinders separated by a bore bridge, and a block cooling jacket having a slot in the bore bridge and intersecting a block deck face. The engine has one of a cylinder head and a head gasket with a surface configured to mate with the block deck face, the surface having a tab sized to be received by the slot to form a cooling passage therebetween. An engine has a cylinder block with a block deck face defining a first cylinder and a second cylinder separated by an interbore region. The block is independent of a cylinder liner. The block forms a cooling jacket with a fluid passage surrounding the first and second cylinders and an open channel extending across the interbore region and intersecting the block deck face. |
| US09951710B2 |
Vehicle and control method for vehicle
An electronic control unit sets a misfire determination threshold to a first value in the cylinder injection mode, and sets the misfire determination threshold to a second value smaller than the first value in the port injection mode, and determines that a misfire occurs in the engine when a rotation fluctuation of the engine is larger than the misfire determination threshold. In a case where the cylinder injection mode is changed to the port injection mode, when a predetermined period has elapsed from the change, the electronic control unit changes the misfire determination threshold from the first value to the second value. |
| US09951707B2 |
Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
The exhaust purification system comprises an exhaust purification catalyst, downstream side air-fuel ratio sensor, and control device. The control device performs average air-fuel ratio control which alternately sets a target average air-fuel ratio between a rich air-fuel ratio and a lean air-fuel ratio and inter-cylinder air-fuel ratio control which controls the target air-fuel ratios of the cylinders so that the target air-fuel ratio becomes the rich air-fuel ratio at least at one cylinder among the plurality of cylinders even if the target average air-fuel ratio is set to the lean air-fuel ratio. The control device uses a cumulative value of a first oxygen amount from when switching the target average air-fuel ratio to the lean air-fuel ratio to when again switching it to the rich air-fuel ratio and a cumulative value of a second oxygen amount from when switching the target average air-fuel ratio to the rich air-fuel ratio to when again switching it to the lean air-fuel ratio as the basis for correcting a parameter relating to the air-fuel ratio so that the difference of these becomes smaller as learning control. |
| US09951706B2 |
Calibration strategies to improve spinel mixed metal oxides catalytic converters
Modified calibration strategies for controlling an internal combustion engine and monitoring catalyst performance are disclosed. The modified calibration strategies are implemented using an engine and test cell/catalyst chamber setup wherein the engine is a Euro V 1.2 L turbo gasoline direct injection engine and test cells/catalyst chamber are implemented as substantially free of platinum group metals (PGM) catalysts, herein referred as ZPGM catalysts, and synergized PGM (SPGM) catalysts including a stoichiometric spinel structure within the catalyst configuration. The utilization of an open ECU enables the modified calibration of the engine out targeted AFR. The conventional ECU AFR control strategies are not modified to have the ECU AFR control strategies to continue running normally and only the final engine out targeted AFR values are modified by applying offset AFR values. The modified calibration strategies improve engine operation and catalyst conversion efficiency of the ZPGM and SPGM catalysts including the spinel structures. |
| US09951705B2 |
Control unit and program for same
The first memory of a control unit has a control program stored therein, and an update of the control program is performed at a predetermined timing. After the update of the control program, the second memory in the control unit is referred to, and an event code stored in the second memory is extracted if the event code does not correspond to any one of event code group respectively associated with events that can possibly be generated by the updated control program. Due to the decreased necessity for use as reference data, the extracted event code may be considered as un-necessary and may be deleted, for example, from the memory. |
| US09951699B2 |
Method of detecting a malfunction of a valve in a turboshaft engine
A method of monitoring a valve in a turboshaft engine, said valve switching, by closing and/or opening, in response to a control instruction sent at a determined instant, said method comprising calculating a first form of a time signal from the change in a status variable of said turboshaft engine reacting to a switching of said valve, applying a signature test of the switching of the valve to a form of said signal, wherein the method further comprises defining a time interval after sending said control instruction to perform said signature test; acquiring one or more parameters other than the switching of the valve; modelling a signal of said time signal in response to a change in said other parameter(s) to calculate its change; and calculating said second form of the signal is calculated from the first form of the signal by subtracting therefrom the change in the signal calculated from the change in said other parameter(s), over said time interval following a control instruction. |
| US09951697B2 |
Heat release rate waveform calculation apparatus and heat release rate waveform calculation method for internal combustion engine
A period from ignition timing to maximum heat release rate timing, at which a heat release rate is maximum, within a combustion period of air-fuel mixture is defined as a first combustion period that is one of characteristic values of a heat release rate waveform. The first combustion period is estimated based on a cylinder volume at the maximum heat release rate timing (maximum heat release rate cylinder volume) irrespective of any of an engine load factor, an EGR rate, an air-fuel ratio, an oil or coolant temperature and opening and closing timing of an exhaust valve through correction by the use of the exponential function of an engine rotation speed with an exponent of a value commensurate with a tumble ratio. The heat release rate waveform is calculated by using the estimated first combustion period. |
| US09951693B2 |
Fuel supply system for a gas turbine combustor
A fuel supply system for a gas turbine combustor includes a fuel distribution manifold. A first fuel circuit extends from the fuel distribution manifold in a first circumferential direction around an outer surface of the outer casing and provides for fluid communication from the fuel distribution manifold, through the outer casing and to at least one fuel injector disposed within the outer casing. A second fuel circuit extends from the fuel distribution manifold in a second circumferential direction around the outer surface of the outer casing. The second fuel circuit provides for fluid communication from the fuel distribution manifold, through the outer casing and to at least one fuel injector within the outer casing. In particular configurations, the fuel supply system includes a shield that surrounds at least a portion of the outer casing and at least partially encases the first fuel circuit and the second fuel circuit. |
| US09951692B2 |
Support structure for a gas turbine engine
The present invention relates to a support structure (16) for a gas turbine engine (1). The support structure (16) has an axial extension in an axial direction (A) and a circumferential extension in a circumferential direction (C). Moreover, the support structure (16) comprises a plurality of tubular members (18, 20) of a first material type arranged in sequence in the circumferential direction (C). Each tubular member (18, 20) at least partially delimits a flow guiding passage extending at least partially in the axial direction (A). The support structure (16) comprises a leading portion (22) and a trailing portion (24) in the axial direction (A). Furthermore, the support structure (16) comprises a leading edge member (26) of a second material type, the leading edge member (26) being located at the leading portion (22). At least two of the tubular members (18, 20) are fixedly attached to a leading edge member (26). According to the present invention, the first material type is different from the second material type. |
| US09951688B2 |
Low pressure shaft
A low pressure shaft is provided for interconnecting a fan or low pressure compressor of a gas turbine engine with a low pressure turbine of the engine. The shaft has an aft section whose diameter expands progressively with distance along the rearward direction of the engine. The shaft further has an annular joint portion at the rear end of the aft section for joining the shaft to a drive arm of the low pressure turbine. The rate of expansion of the diameter of the aft section decreases with distance along the rearward direction of the engine. |
| US09951686B2 |
Bearing structure for multi-link-type piston crank mechanism for internal combustion engines
A crankshaft bearing part (11) has a pair of main bearing metals (41), and lubricating oil is guided from an oil gallery to an inner circumferential oil groove (43) through an in-block oil passage (33) and a first oil hole (42). Some of the lubricating oil is supplied to a control shaft bearing part (17) via a second oil hole (44) and an in-cap oil passage (34). Lubricating oil is guided from a third oil hole (46) in a pair of control shaft bearing metals (45) to an inner circumferential oil groove (47). The oil groove (43) in the crankshaft bearing part (11) functions also as an oil passage for supplying lubricating oil to the control shaft bearing part (17), thereby achieving a simple configuration. |
| US09951684B2 |
Spark-ignition engine
There is provided a spark-ignition engine with which a gas supply device and an intake system can be integrated with the engine. In the spark-ignition engine including: a throttle body; a gas mixer; a gas regulator; and a gas relay pipe, a collector portion of an intake manifold is supported to extend in a front-back direction on one side of a cylinder head cover, the throttle body is mounted to a back portion of the collector portion of the intake manifold, the gas mixer is mounted to a back portion of the throttle body above a flywheel, the gas regulator is disposed on a side of an exhaust manifold above the flywheel and mounted to a cylinder head, and the gas relay pipe is supported to extend sideways between the gas regulator and the gas mixer behind the cylinder head cover. |
| US09951683B2 |
Supplemental electromagnetic turbocharger actuator
A turbocharger system for an engine includes a rotor, a primary bearing system arranged to axially and radially support the rotor to rotate on a central rotational axis, a compressor coupled to a rotor to rotate with the rotor, a turbine coupled to the rotor to rotate with the rotor, and an electromagnetic actuator adjacent to the rotor. The electromagnetic actuator selectively acts on the rotor and supplements the axial support of the primary bearing system by applying a magnetic force on the rotor in a direction parallel to the central rotational axis of the rotor. |
| US09951679B2 |
Reciprocating internal combustion engine
A highly-efficient, yet simply constructed internal combustion engine includes an intake cylinder to accommodate intake and pre-compression of an oxidizing agent, a combustion cylinder to accommodate a further compression of the oxidizing agent, an injection and ignition of fuel, and a partial expansion of combustion gases produced by the ignition of fuel; and an exhaust cylinder to accommodate a further expansion of the combustion gases and subsequent exhausting of the further expanded combustion gases. A reciprocating piston is inside each of the intake, combustion and exhaust cylinders and a crankshaft is coupled to the reciprocating pistons. A first transfer passage facilitates flow of the pre-compressed oxidizing agent from the intake cylinder to the combustion cylinder and a second transfer passage facilitates flow of the partially-expanded combustion gases from the combustion cylinder to the exhaust cylinder. |
| US09951675B2 |
Structure of intercooler cover integrated into fan shroud for turbocharged engine and method for operating the same
A structure of an intercooler cover integrated into a fan shroud includes an intercooler rear-side portion mounted to a rear side of the intercooler. A cooling module rear-side portion is mounted to a rear side of a cooling module. A ventilator communicates with one side of the intercooler rear-side portion and one side of the cooling module rear-side portion. |
| US09951669B2 |
Method and system for a HC trap
Methods and systems are provided for a HC trap in a bypass passage. In one example, a method may include closing a diverter valve to flow exhaust gas from a main exhaust passage to the bypass passage during a cold-start. |
| US09951664B2 |
Method for heating the engine oil of an internal combustion engine and internal combustion engine for performing such a method
A method for operation of a lubrication circuit in an internal combustion engine is provided herein. The method comprises during a first operating condition, operating an oil agitation device to increase the turbulence of oil in the lubrication circuit, the oil agitation device positioned downstream of an oil pump in a supply line in fluidic communication with a lubricant receiving component. |
| US09951651B2 |
Bearing with lubrication means and system for changing the pitch of the blades of a turboprop propeller of an aircraft equipped with said bearing
A bearing, such as a rolling bearing, is mounted on a support mobile in translation and includes a lubrication mechanism. The lubrication mechanism includes at least one pipe delivering a lubricant, linked to a lubricant supply source, and at least partially engaging in the support mobile in translation to deliver the lubricant from the mobile support along an internal channel to the bearing, passing through an inner ring of the bearing. |
| US09951649B2 |
Fuel flow divider valve mounting arrangement for a gas turbine engine
A valve mount comprises a first mounting plate securable to an existing part of a gas turbine engine, a second mounting plate secured to a valve, and at least a pair of fastener assemblies on opposed sides of the valve for securing the first and second mounting plates together. A vibration isolator is disposed between the first and second mounting plates to absorb some of the energy that is being transferred from the valve to the structure of the engine during a predetermined operating phase of the engine. |
| US09951646B2 |
Gas turbine on-line water wash system and method
An on-line wash system for a compressor including: a nozzle including a flow passage for wash liquid, wherein the flow passage is configured to be coupled to a source of a wash liquid and includes a discharge outlet arranged to project the wash liquid into a stream of working fluid for the turbomachine; an electrode proximate to the flow passage of the nozzle, wherein the electrode is configured to form an electrical field sufficient to charge the wash liquid flowing through the passage and the charge applied to the wash liquid is of a first polarity, and a surface of the compressor charged with the first polarity, wherein the surface is exposed to the stream of working fluid and downstream of the nozzle. |
| US09951645B2 |
Gas turbine engine
A fan containment system for fitment around an array of radially extending fan blades mounted on a hub in an axial gas turbine engine. The fan containment system comprises an annular casing element for encircling an array of fan blades. An annular fan track liner is positioned substantially coaxial to the annular casing element. A hook projects in a generally radially inward direction from the annular casing element and is positioned axially forward of an array of fan blades when the fan containment system is fitted around said fan blades. Tabs protrude from the hook in a generally rearward direction and are spaced circumferentially along the hook. Fasteners connect the fan track liner to the tabs. The fasteners are configured so as to permit movement of the fan track liner towards the annular casing element when the fan track liner is impacted by a released fan blade. |
| US09951642B2 |
Intermittent grooved soft abradable material to reduce blade tip temperature
An abradable material includes a matrix material defining pockets of fluid. The abradable material also includes an outer surface configured to be coupled to an interior surface of a fan case such that in response to the outer surface being coupled to the fan case, the abradable material is positioned circumferentially about an axis The abradable material also includes an inner surface defining a circumferential ridge and a circumferential groove. |
| US09951638B2 |
Shaped rim cavity wing surface
A shaped rim cavity wing includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The lower surface has a geometric shape to control the separation of airflow as it passes around the lower surface to the top surface. A point of maximum extent defines the boundary between the upper surface and the lower surface, wherein the point of maximum extent defines a corner that that separates airflow from the shaped rim cavity rim and creates a flow re-circulation adjacent to the top surface of the shaped rim cavity wing. |
| US09951637B2 |
Seal for a rotary machine
A rotary machine includes a machine rotor, a machine stator, a labyrinth seal disposed between the machine rotor and the machine stator, a dry gas seal disposed between the machine rotor and the machine stator, the dry gas seal being disposed downstream of the labyrinth seal, the labyrinth seal including a labyrinth seal rotor, and, a labyrinth seal stator, the labyrinth seal stator having a cavity containing a heat transfer medium configured to transfer heat between the labyrinth seal stator and a zone adjacent the labyrinth seal stator to cool or heat a pressurized process fluid before the process fluid bears against the dry gas seal. |
| US09951636B2 |
Double tube connecting device
The invention relates to a device for connection between two enclosures of a turbomachine, for enabling the circulation of a coolant between said enclosures, via said connection device, said connection device comprising an outer tube (2) having an opening (3) extending along the entire length of said outer tube (2), and also comprising an inner tube (6) extending inside the outer tube (2). |
| US09951635B2 |
Group of blade rows
A blade row group arrangeable in a main flow path of a fluid-flow machine and including N adjacent member blade rows firmly arranged relative to one another both in the meridional direction and in the circumferential direction is provided. Here, a front member blade row with front blades having a leading edge and a trailing edge as well as a rear member blade row with rear blades having a leading edge and a trailing edge are provided, and the blade row group has two main flow path boundaries. It is provided that the profile of the blades of the member blade rows is firmly connected at at least one of the two main flow path boundaries to a base. |
| US09951634B2 |
Attachment arrangement for turbine engine component
A component for a gas turbine engine according to an example of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a body having circumferential sides between a forward face and an aft face, each of the circumferential sides defining a mate face, an attachment member extending from the body, and a transition member adjacent to the body and the attachment member. The transition member and the body define a slot configured to receive a seal member. The transition member is sloped inwardly from one of the circumferential sides. A method of fabricating a gas turbine engine component is also disclosed. |
| US09951630B2 |
Self-healing environmental barrier coating
The present inventions incorporate self-healing mechanisms into current and future EBC systems. Such approaches have the potential to form environmental protection materials (i.e. thermally grown silicate compositions) in-situ to enable the ability to provide environmental protection to SiC based ceramics even in the event that cracks or voids form from within the EBC layer. In this disclosure, novel, self-healing EBC systems are disclosed along with coating synthesis techniques required to deposit the materials, microstructures and architectures. This research is anticipated to result in a thermal/environmental barrier coating system (T/EBC) that provides improved durability over current coatings. These advancements will aid the use of Si-based ceramics in a range of high temperature applications such a gas turbine engines and heat exchangers. These advances will not only benefit military engines, but also commercial and industrial engines requiring greater performance. |
| US09951629B2 |
Tip leakage flow directionality control
An airfoil according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a suction sidewall and a pressure sidewall, each sidewall extending spanwise from an airfoil base and extending chordwise between a leading edge and a trailing edge. A tip wall extends chordwise from the leading edge to the trailing edge and joining respective outer spanwise ends of the suction and pressure sidewalls. A tip leakage control channel is recessed into the tip wall, the tip leakage control channel including a control channel floor that extends between a first control channel vane sidewall and a second control channel vane sidewall established by a corresponding tip leakage control vane. An internal cooling cavity is disposed between the suction sidewall and the pressure sidewall and a channel cooling aperture feeds airflow from the internal cooling cavity to the tip leakage control channel. |
| US09951623B2 |
Blade cascade for a turbomachine
A blade cascade for a gas turbine, which has a first group with at least two, in particular at least three, first blade arrangements of the same type to one another, on which first element arrangements that are identical to one another and have at least one first element are movably mounted; and a second group with at least two, in particular at least three, second blade arrangements, which are of the same type to one another and are of different type from the first blade arrangements, on which second element arrangements, which are identical to one another and have at least one second element are movably mounted, wherein first and second element arrangements are different from each other. |
| US09951621B2 |
Rotor disc with fluid removal channels to enhance life of spindle bolt
A rotor disc configured to reduce the likelihood of fractures developing in spindle bolts in gas turbine engines is disclosed. The spindle bolts extend axially through the rotor disc to retain the rotor assembly in place in the gas turbine engine. The rotor disc may be formed from a rotor disc body having a plurality of circumferentially positioned spindle bolt holes sized to house a spindle bolts within each spindle bolt hole. One or more relief channels, which also may be referred to as scallops, may extend radially outward from one of the spindle bolt holes. The relief channels may foster removal of condensation and debris from the space between the spindle bolt and the surface forming the spindle bolt hole and may be configured to discourage the ingress of air through the relief channel and into space between the spindle bolt and the surface forming the spindle bolt hole. |
| US09951620B1 |
Working fluid turbo
A working fluid turbo comprising an enclosed housing; an intake port; an exhaust port; at least two sets of a plurality of disks within the housing; and a shaft connected to at least one set of the at least two sets of plurality of disks. The at least two sets of a plurality of disks has a first set of disks aligned with the intake port and a second set of disks aligned with the exhaust port. The shaft connects to at least one set of the at least two sets of disks. The first set of disks and the second set of disks each include an end plate with X-shaped walls that forms an X-shaped disk shaft, whereby the X-shaped disk shaft allows the working fluid to move between solid disks and holed disks. |
| US09951618B2 |
Removable barrier for protecting tunnels and other structures from flooding and other hazards
A system for preventing fluid from entering a walled structure includes a support structure configured for fixing to at least one surface of the walled structure; and a barrier apparatus attachable and anchorable to the support structure, the barrier apparatus including a fluid retention member configured for intercepting a fluid entering the walled structure, and a collar for holding the fluid retention member against an interior surface of the walled structure, proximate the opening. As fluid enters the barrier apparatus, the pressure increases against the interior surface of the fluid retention member, pressing it against the walled structure. The collar in combination with the fluid retention member to which it is attached acts like a gasket to tighten a seal between the barrier apparatus and the walled structure. |
| US09951616B2 |
Arrangement for controlling automated operation mode
A method for controlling an automated drilling process on a work machine includes the steps of obtaining, from at least one input, data determining operations of the work machine; generating reference data based on the data determining previous operations of the work machine in substantially the same area; detecting a region of interest in the reference data; and controlling, in response to the work machine or its drilling process approaching a point corresponding to the region of interest in the reference data, the work machine to provide an operator with an option to manually assist the operations of the work machine at the point. |
| US09951614B2 |
Behind pipe evaluation using a nuclear density tool
In relation to a cut and pull operation, a nuclear tool may be used for evaluating the composition of materials located behind a pipe lining the wellbore. More specifically, a downhole method may include emitting gamma rays into the pipe and the material from a source of a nuclear tool disposed in the wellbore; detecting gamma radiation scattered back from the pipe and the material with a detector of the nuclear tool; determining a high-energy range and a low-energy range for the gamma radiation; measuring count rates of the gamma radiation in the high-energy range (CRH) and the low-energy range (CRL); performing an analysis of (1) the CRH relative to (2) the CRL; and determining a compositional equivalent for the material based on the analysis. |
| US09951612B2 |
Well construction real-time telemetry system
Downhole assemblies including a plurality of tubular members extendable within a wellbore and defining a through bore. A telemetry device is positioned within a wall of one of the plurality of tubular members and has a secondary flow path defined therethrough and a valve element engageable with a valve seat provided at an upper end of the secondary flow path. The secondary flow path extends between an inlet and an outlet, both of which fluidly communicate with the through bore and are defined in the one of the plurality of tubular members. A flow restrictor is located within the through bore and is axially positioned between the inlet and the outlet of the secondary flow path. The valve element is actuatable to control fluid flow through the secondary flow path to selectively generate a fluid pressure pulse. |
| US09951604B2 |
Systems and methods for optimizing gradient measurements in ranging operations
The system comprises a drilling apparatus comprising a first portion (111) and a second portion (116). In certain embodiments, the first portion may comprise a bottom hole assembly (BHA) or a drill string, and the second portion may comprise a sensor extension housing. The first portion (111) has a first diameter and the second portion (116) has a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter. The system includes a sensor pair 114) disposed within the second portion and proximate to an outer radial surface of the second portion. A processor is in communication with the sensor pair. The processor determines at least one gradient measurement based, at least in part, on outputs of the sensor pair. |
| US09951601B2 |
Distributed real-time processing for gas lift optimization
A method, apparatus, and program product perform lift optimization in a field with a plurality of wells, with each well including an artificial lift mechanism controlled by an associated well controller. In a central controller, a network simulation model functioning as a proxy of the field is accessed to determine an optimal allocation solution for the field, and a well-specific control signal is generated for each of the plurality of wells based upon the determined optimal allocation solution. The well-specific control signal for each of the plurality of wells is communicated to the associated well controller to cause the associated well controller to control a lift parameter associated with the artificial lift mechanism for the well. |
| US09951600B2 |
Managed pressure cementing
A method of cementing a tubular string in a wellbore includes: deploying the tubular string into the wellbore; pumping cement slurry into the tubular string; launching a cementing plug after pumping the cement slurry; propelling the cementing plug through the tubular string, thereby pumping the cement slurry through the tubular string and into an annulus formed between the tubular string and the wellbore; and controlling flow of fluid displaced from the wellbore by the cement slurry to control pressure of the annulus. |
| US09951598B2 |
Fluid homogenizer system for gas segregated liquid hydrocarbon wells and method of homogenizing liquids produced by such wells
A method of homogenizing a production fluid from an oil well having one or more wellbores includes separating gas from the production fluid in a vertical or horizontal section of a well casing at a first location spaced from a heel portion of a wellbore, and injecting the separated gas into the production fluid at a second location spaced from the heel portion of the wellbore and provided downstream of the first location. |
| US09951597B1 |
Downhole coal seam pulse detonation wave directional fracturing permeability-increasing method
A method for permeability improvement for a downhole coal seam by directional fracturing with pulsed detonation waves, which is applicable to gas control in coal seam areas with high gas concentration and low air permeability. The permeability improvement method is as follows: first, drilling a pulsed detonation borehole and pulsed detonation guide boreholes from a coal roadway to a coal seam respectively; then, pushing a positive electrode connected to a positive output side of an explosion-proof high-voltage electrical pulse generator to the bottom of the pulsed detonation borehole and pushing a negative electrode connected to a negative output side of the explosion-proof high-voltage electrical pulse generator to the bottom of the pulsed detonation guide borehole; connecting the pulsed detonation borehole and the pulsed detonation guide boreholes to an extraction pipeline for gas extraction, after electrical pulsed detonation fracturing for the coal seam is carried out. The method disclosed in the present invention utilizes the high instantaneous energy provided by electrical pulsed detonation waves to fracture a coal mass, so as to form a fissure network in the coal mass between the pulsed detonation borehole and the pulsed detonation guide boreholes; thus, the air permeability coefficient of the coal mass can be increased by 200-400 times, the effective influence scope of gas extraction of a single borehole for gas extraction can be enlarged by 3-4 times, the extracted gas volume from the borehole can be increased by 3-8 times, and the coal seam gas pre-extraction time can be shortened effectively. |
| US09951596B2 |
Sliding sleeve for stimulating a horizontal wellbore, and method for completing a wellbore
A method of completing a wellbore involves placing a series of sliding sleeves along a string of production casing in the wellbore and includes dropping a frac ball into the wellbore and landing it on a seat associated with an uppermost sleeve. Pressure is applied to activate the sleeve, open ports along the casing, and fracture a surrounding subsurface formation at a selected zone. Ball sealers are pumped down the well and seated within the sleeve ports. Additional fluid pressure is applied to cause the sleeve to shift further down the well and to release the ball, whereupon the frac ball is pumped to a next lower sleeve. This process may be repeated for multiple sleeves at multiple zones for top-down, multi-stage perforations. A novel sliding sleeve that permits a single ball to be used for activating multiple of the sleeves in series, from heel-to-toe, is also offered. |
| US09951595B2 |
Pressure swing solvent assisted well stimulation
A method of initiating or accelerating the establishment of fluid communication between injection and production wells located in a formation, including injecting sufficient solvent into the wellbores of the wells such that the solvent occupies more than the horizontal sections of the wells; pressurizing the solvent column in the injection wellbore and optionally also the solvent column in the production wellbore by injecting gas such that the pressures at the toe and heel of the horizontal section of the injection well and optionally the production well are greater than a fracture pressure of the formation; maintaining the pressure in the injection wellbore and optionally also the production wellbore; depressurizing the injection wellbore and optionally the production wellbore, either simultaneously or consecutively in the case where both wellbores have been pressurized; and repeating the pressurization and depressurization steps for at least one more cycle to generate pressure swings. |
| US09951585B1 |
Method of inducing micro-seismic fractures and dislocations of fractures
There is taught herein a method of inducing micro fractures and fracture slip in formations thereby creating new dislocations in pre-existing fractures during hydraulic fracturing operations. An embodiment uses multi-component generated signals from multiple seismic signal generators located on or below the surface; and rotating the generated signals such that their vectors of propagation can be varied and optimized for inducing the micro-seismic and fracture slip events for highest cumulative hydrocarbon extraction considering the mechanical properties and direction of the stresses and pre-existing fractures. Embodiments relate to methods for inducing additional seismic events and fracture slip during hydraulic fracturing, particularly micro-seismic events and fracture slip which improve the short and long term production from the reservoir formation. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, embodiments of the present invention relate to such methods for inducing and optimizing the events in the target reservoir formation. |
| US09951582B2 |
Pressure activated cyclical valve apparatus and method
A bypass tool has a piston movable within the bore of a central housing. A control slot on an exterior wall of the piston engages a slot pin in the housing. Longitudinal movement of the piston is downward, in response to fluid pressure exerted on a ball seated on a ball seat on the piston; and spring biased upward. The control slot and slot pin rotate the piston as it moves longitudinally between a first, upper position in which bypass ports in the housing are closed, and a second, lower position in which the bypass ports are open. An intermediate longitudinal position has the ports closed, and permits pressuring up on a ball to force it through the ball seat and reset the tool in the flow through position. The ball and/or ball seat may be of resilient material to permit passage of the ball through the seat. |
| US09951580B2 |
Well barrier method and apparatus
A method for setting a barrier within a wellbore comprises deploying a first plug assembly (16) into a wellbore on a running string, wherein the first plug assembly comprises an extendable arrangement (24), and then setting the first plug assembly within the wellbore by extending the extendable arrangement. A settable medium is injected via the running string into the wellbore above the first plug assembly. To be accompanied, when published, with FIG. 1F |
| US09951574B2 |
Cleaning and separating fluid and debris from core samples and coring systems
Coring tools including a core tube assembly; a carrier chamber defined within the core tube assembly for storing one or more core samples drilled from a downhole formation having a wellbore fluid therein, wherein the wellbore fluid has a wellbore fluid density; a non-hydrocarbon, non-reactive heavy weight fluid (“HWF”) present within the carrier chamber, the HWF exhibiting a HWF density of about 2 pounds per gallon greater than the wellbore fluid density; a pressure housing cover selectively rotatable between (1) an open position, where the one or more core samples are able to be inserted into the carrier chamber, and (2) a closed position, where the carrier chamber is sealed; and a cover activation mechanism coupled to the core tube assembly and operable to move the pressure housing cover between the closed position and the open position. |
| US09951571B2 |
Gear backlash adjustment mechanism
A drill rig includes a base, a drill tower extending from the base, a drill pipe coupled to and supported by the drill tower, and a driving mechanism coupled to the drill tower that moves the drill pipe relative to the drill tower. The driving mechanism includes a rack and a plurality of pinions that engage the rack. The drill rig also includes an adjustment mechanism coupled to the driving mechanism, the adjustment mechanism including a plurality of rollers and an adjustment component that moves the plurality of rollers simultaneously toward the pinions to contact the rack. |
| US09951569B2 |
Threaded connection
A threaded, coupled connection having tapered, buttress-type threads, the threaded portions of the connection having a thread pitch of seven threads per inch. Preferably the pin threads of the coupled connection are pull-out threads. |
| US09951566B1 |
Superabrasive elements, methods of manufacturing, and drill bits including same
Methods of manufacturing a superabrasive element are disclosed. In one embodiment, a substrate and a preformed superabrasive volume may be at least partially surrounded by an enclosure and the enclosure may be sealed in an inert environment. Further, the enclosure may be exposed to an elevated pressure and preformed superabrasive volume may be affixed to the substrate. Polycrystalline diamond elements are disclosed. In one embodiment, a polycrystalline diamond element may comprise a preformed polycrystalline diamond volume bonded to a substrate by a braze material. Optionally, such a polycrystalline diamond element may exhibit a compressive stress. Rotary drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation and including at least one superabrasive element are also disclosed. |
| US09951562B2 |
Method and apparatus for orienting a downhole tool
The present disclosure provides for a sensor assembly for use in a wellbore. The sensor assembly may include a rotating sub, the rotating sub coupled to a drill string and a drive shaft, the drive shaft coupled to the rotating sub. The sensor assembly may also include a nonrotating sub where the nonrotating sub is positioned generally around the drive shaft and shaft and rotatably coupled to the drive shaft and the rotating sub. The nonrotating sub may include an outer cover. The outer cover is generally tubular. The nonrotating sub may further include a sensor collar. The sensor collar is positioned within and coupled to the outer cover. The sensor collar may be coupled to the outer cover by a drive assembly. The drive assembly may include a motor adapted to rotate the sensor collar relative to the outer cover. The nonrotating sub also includes at least one positioning sensor coupled to the sensor collar. |
| US09951556B2 |
Motorized roller tube system having dual-mode operation
A motorized system for reeling and unreeling a flexible member on a roller tube between fully open wound and fully closed unwound conditions to minimize sound pressure level has a rotatable roller tube and a flexible member that winds on the tube. A d-c motor drives the tube through a gear reduction. The motor has a motor speed versus torque characteristic extending linearly from high maximum RPM, low minimum torque, to low minimum RPM high maximum torque with peak efficiency at a given RPM. The motor moves the member between the two positions at a motor speed less than the given peak efficiency RPM and less than 50% of high maximum RPM with efficiency less than 25% of peak efficiency, intentionally at a high torque and low efficiency. The motor has two or more modes each moving the member at predetermined different linear speed. |
| US09951555B2 |
Device for mounting a shaft of a screen on a surface
The present invention relates to a device for mounting a shaft of a screen, such as a window covering, on a surface such as a wall, window frame or a ceiling, wherein the device comprises a mounting bracket and a shaft holder, wherein the mounting bracket is configured for mounting on the surface and the shaft holder is attachable to the mounting bracket, wherein the shaft holder is provided with coupling means for coupling the shaft and the shaft holder in releasably attachable manner to the mounting bracket. |
| US09951554B1 |
Storage door weather strip
A storage door weather strip assembly having a rubber strip, a plurality of tube holding brackets and a rigid tube. The tube has a horizontally disposed slit traveling its length. The brackets each have a C shaped member attached to a flat plate. The rubber strip includes a round cross section capable of sliding into the tube. The rubber strip also including a horizontally disposed rubber panel which terminates in an L shaped strip. The round cross section rubber portion slides into the tube. The horizontally disposed rubber panel protrudes from the slit in the tube. The tube holding brackets are mounted onto the front portion of the storage door along its bottom edge. The tube snaps into the brackets so that the lowest portion of the L shaped rubber strip touches the ground creating a weather tight seal. |
| US09951553B2 |
High speed parallel process insulated glass manufacturing line
A high speed parallel manufacturing line for manufacturing insulated glass units, the manufacturing line including a front conveyor system, a back conveyor system, a shuttle mechanism that distributes glass lites to the front conveyor system and the back conveyor system, an insulated glass unit spacer applicator having a spacer dispensing head configured to apply perimeter spacer material to one of the glass lites, the spacer head being proportionally movable relative to the glass lite as the glass lite is conveyed on the front conveyor mechanism to apply the perimeter spacer material to create a spacer applied lite and a gas press. A secondary edge sealing unit has a first secondary edge sealing head and a second secondary edge sealing head, each of the first secondary edge sealing head and the second secondary edge sealing head applying edge sealant to portion of a perimeter of an insulated glass unit. |
| US09951552B2 |
Glazing with heat flux sensor and/or methods of making the same
Certain example embodiments relate to a glazing assembly including a first glass substrate. A radiation shield covering, directly or indirectly, at least a part of a peripheral edge area of the first glass substrate. A dual junction solid-state heat flux sensor includes a first junction oriented in the assembly at a first location at which radiation from a radiation source is receivable through the first glass substrate; a second junction oriented in the assembly at a second location that is blocked from the radiation source by the radiation shield; and circuitry configured to generate a signal based on a differential between transduced voltages respectively generated at the first and second junctions. A control module may be configured to receive the signal and selectively generate an action responsive thereto. |
| US09951548B2 |
System able to control speed of door
A system which can reliably prevent a worker from being caught in a door which is provided on a work machine. The system comprises a work machine which has an operable door, a door drive part which makes the door operate, a door controller which controls the door drive part, a robot which is provided so that at least part can enter and retract from the inside of the work machine when opening the door, and an entry detection part which detects a possibility of a person entering a predetermined zone which includes a range of operation of the robot. The door controller changes a command value to the door drive part which determines the speed of movement of the door when the entry detection part detects that possibility to a second command value which makes the speed of movement decrease. |
| US09951545B2 |
Merchandise security devices for use with an electronic key
A merchandise security device is provided. The merchandise security device may include a lock mechanism operably engaged with a shape memory material configured to receive electrical power for locking and unlocking the lock mechanism. The shape memory material may be configured to change in shape in response to receiving electrical power to thereby lock or unlock the lock mechanism. |
| US09951542B2 |
Convertible awning and shutter system
The awning and shutter system serves as both a storm shutter when closed and a deck or patio awning when opened, and is designed with a counterweight making for effortless operation. Furthermore, some embodiments of the awning and shutter may feature a third position, substantially reducing the projection of the awning when in the opened position. This unique feature allows the system to sustain high wind conditions while maintaining interior view, shade and daylight. |
| US09951541B1 |
Modular umbrella shading system
A modular umbrella shading system includes a base module, a core module assembly and a first extension assembly, the first extension assembly connecting the base unit to the core umbrella assembly. A modular umbrella shading system further includes an arm expansion sensor module and a second extension assembly, the second extension assembly detachably connecting the core umbrella assembly to the arm expansion sensor module. |
| US09951539B2 |
Modular drilling rig system and method for assembling the same
The invention relates to a modular drilling rig system comprising multiple components, which system is transfigurable between a transport mode and an operational mode, and comprises: a. a drilling rig mast which is positionable in a vertical orientation; b. a base structure adapted to be positioned on a surface near the well center to support the drilling rig mast thereon, wherein the base structure comprises two elongated members that are connected to each other by a cross beam; c. a displacement system to displace the drilling rig with respect to the surface in a horizontal direction; wherein the displacement system is configured to displace the two elongated members of the base structure together in order to displace the drilling rig, and is configured such that the two elongated members can be displaced with respect to each other when the two elongated members are not connected to each other. |
| US09951535B2 |
System and process for mixing and delivering building materials
There is disclosed a system for depositing building materials comprising a motor vehicle, a container comprising a material depositing system and at least one device for removing the container from the motor vehicle. The device can comprise one or more outriggers which are adapted to remove the container from the motor vehicle and which can be used to deposit the container on a job site. In addition there is a system which includes a hydraulically controlled crane and silo doors for allowing material to be automatically added to containers for mixing building materials. |
| US09951534B2 |
Siding gauge for measuring vertical gap and horizontal overlap
A device for maintaining recommended spacing during siding installation contains a main body, an extended body, an extruding body, a first channel, and a second channel. The first channel and the second channel are used to receiving a siding panel. When the siding panel is received, a first stop and a second stop of the extruding body is used to rest the device against a previously installed siding panel. Since the siding panel is stationary against the previously installed siding panel, a constant space can be maintained between the two siding panels. In addition to installing the siding panel, the device can also be used when installing siding butt-joints. In order to do so, a first receiving channel and a second receiving channel are provided. |
| US09951529B2 |
Support plate system for elevated flooring tiles
An elevated flooring surface assembly including surface tiles disposed on respective support plates, the corners of which in turn rest on support pedestals disposed upon a fixed surface with a predetermined spacing therebetween to provide for increased degrees of support of the surface tiles above the fixed surface. |
| US09951524B2 |
Retractable awning
In an embodiment, a retractable awning comprises a slotted track; a webbing disposed in the slotted track; a cover attached to the webbing and disposed on the slotted track; a first roller disposed at a first end of the slotted track and connected to a first end of the webbing; a second roller disposed at a second opposite end of the slotted track and connected to a second end of the webbing; and a bracket, the bracket disposed over the first roller and comprising a guide roller which contacts the cover when the retractable awing is in a deployed position between the first roller and the first end of the slotted track. |
| US09951522B2 |
Panel, assembly of panels and associated roofing
The present invention provides a panel having a profile. The panel includes a first longitudinal edge including in succession a first longitudinal rib, a flange, and a second longitudinal rib. Each longitudinal rib includes an upper central part and two lateral wings. The panel also includes a central part and a second longitudinal edge including in succession a first lateral portion, a protruding part, and a second lateral portion. The lateral portions have a configuration permitting them to at least partially overlap the upper central parts of the first and second longitudinal ribs. The protruding part is capable of receiving a fastener. The present invention also provides an assembly of panels marginally overlapping, a roofing and a kit for fabrication of roofing. |
| US09951519B2 |
Composite wall panel, wall system and components thereof, and a method of construction thereof
A composite wall, ceiling or floor panel (10), system and method, including a sheet (14) having a first face (18) including at least one first mounting portion (16), and at least one formwork member (20) with at least one second mounting portion (30) arranged to engage with the first mounting portion of the sheet to retain the sheet and said at least one formwork member together. Structural support comes from piers (for a wall) or beams (ceiling or floor) formed in the spacing between adjacent formwork members. The formwork members act as the core of a wall, ceiling or floor panel. An external coating (123) is applied to the formwork members, such as spray shotcrete or render. Channels (28) formed by the formwork members defines integrated ducting for services to be run. |
| US09951515B2 |
Expansion joint seal with surface load transfer and intumescent
An expansion joint design for supporting transfer loads. The system includes an elongated core and at least one longitudinal load-transfer member which are bonded together. |
| US09951513B2 |
Method for erecting a structure made of prefabricated concrete elements and associated structure
The invention relates to a method for erecting a structure 0 comprising at least two prefabricated concrete elements 1, 2, the method comprising: installing a first concrete element 1; placing a second concrete element 2 with at least one spacer 4 maintaining a gap between respective end faces 104, 203 of the first element and second element; tensioning at least one bar 105, 3 held on the first and second elements and passing through the gap maintained by the spacer, and introducing a hardenable interface product 5 into said gap. The method thus makes it possible to move off the critical path relating to the erection the need to wait, between two assembly operations, for the joints between the assembled pieces to have hardened. Incidentally, a significant reduction in the time taken for erecting such a structure is obtained. |
| US09951506B2 |
Water replenishing device for a flush rim of a toilet and toilet including the same
A toilet is provided with a water replenishing device for a flush rim with a silencing function. The water replenishing device has independent drainage from the drainage of the cistern. The water replenishing device includes a water storage box with a water inlet on a top side and a drainage outlet on a bottom side. The drainage outlet is connected to the waterway for the flush rim. A lid is installed in the water storage box to open or close the drainage outlet. The water storage box is provided with a water storage area. A backflow channel has one end connected to the water inlet and the other end extending into the water storage area below or equal to the highest level of the water storage area. Such toilets make less noise by eliminating water inlet noise. |
| US09951505B2 |
Toilet fixture with directional jet flow
A flush toilet is disclosed. The flush toilet includes a bowl having a waste receiving surface, a drainage channel having an inlet connected to a bottom portion of the bowl for discharging waste, and a throat adjacent the waste receiving surface and aligned with the drainage channel The flush toilet also includes a first water cleansing jet for supplying cleansing water onto the waste receiving surface. The first water cleansing jet is disposed within the throat. The flush toilet also includes a second water cleansing jet for supplying cleansing water onto the waste receiving surface. The second water cleansing jet is also disposed within the throat, with the second water cleansing jet being offset from the first water cleansing jet. |
| US09951504B2 |
Apparatus for controlling a toilet system
A toilet system configured for operation on-board an aircraft includes, according to an implementation, a toilet bowl, a left side support bracket supporting the toilet bowl, a right side support bracket supporting the toilet bowl, a control box including a first set of pins, and a harness connector configured to electrically couple the toilet to the aircraft. The harness connector includes a set of pins, where the first set of pins of the control box are configured to be connected to the set of pins included in the harness connector, and the control box is configured to determine a platform of the aircraft based on the presence or absence of a pin in the set of pins included in the harness connector. |
| US09951498B2 |
Regenerative machine coupling system
A system includes a first machine having a first bail member and a first push bar, at first end. The first bail member includes a first hydraulic cylinder. A first hook and second push bar, at second end. The second push bar includes a second hydraulic cylinder in fluid communication with first hydraulic accumulator. The second machine having second bail member and first push bar, at first end. The second bail member includes third hydraulic cylinder in fluid communication with second hydraulic accumulator. A second hook and second push bar, at second end. The second push bar includes fourth hydraulic cylinder. The first hook coupled to second bail member and second push bar of first machine is in mechanical contact with first push bar of second machine. The impact energy generated at beginning of push operation and pull operation is stored in first hydraulic accumulator and second hydraulic accumulator respectively. |
| US09951485B2 |
Cart for building a bridge board forward progressive
Cart for building a bridge board forward progressive which incorporates a system for positioning reinforcement pieces, which have displacement tracks on the upper working surface and runners on which the reinforcement pieces are situated and which are displaced on the displacement tracks, where by means of the system for positioning reinforcement pieces it situates the reinforcement pieces in a position of the upper working surface for a subsequent concreting of a section of the board of the bridge, with the cart being fixed in the position thereof. |
| US09951483B2 |
Ground milling machine having a replaceable milling part and method for replacing a milling part of a ground milling machine
The present invention relates to a ground milling machine, in particular, a road cold milling machine, having a replaceable milling drum unit. To make this replacement procedure easier, the present invention proposes a fastening device between the milling part and the machine part of the ground milling machine. The present invention furthermore relates to a method for replacing a milling part on the ground milling machine, a fastening device being used for this purpose. |
| US09951482B2 |
Vibration isolation for compactor
A vibratory compactor comprising an active isolation apparatus for reducing a vibration generated during the rotation of an eccentric shaft having an eccentric weight attached thereto. The active isolation apparatus comprises a drum, a propulsion motor configured to rotate the drum, a drive plate disposed between the propulsion motor and the drum in such a way as to be connected to the propulsion motor to transmit a rotating force to the drum, and a drum support configured to rotatably support the drum. The active isolation apparatus further comprises a first active isolation mass disposed between the drum support and the drum, a second active isolation mass disposed between the drive plate and the drum, an eccentric shaft configured to be rotated while penetrating through the first active isolation mass, the drum, and the second active isolation mass, a primary eccentric weight attached to the eccentric shaft inside the drum, an active isolation eccentric weight attached to each of the eccentric shaft inside the first active isolation mass and the second active isolation mass, and a vibration motor configured to rotate the eccentric shaft. When the eccentric shaft is rotated, a phase of a vibration generated by the active isolation eccentric weights is opposite to that of a vibration generated by the primary eccentric weight, and the vibration generated by the active isolation eccentric weights cancels the vibration generated by the primary eccentric weight. |
| US09951473B2 |
Sheet manufacturing apparatus
A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a first sieve that has a first opening for screening a defibrated material that is defibrating-processed, a second sieve that has a second opening having a size equal to or greater than a size of the first opening and refines the defibrated material passing through the first sieve by causing the defibrated material to pass through the second opening, and a belt on which the defibrated material passing through the second sieve is deposited. |
| US09951471B2 |
Method and machine for manufacturing paper products using fourdrinier forming
An improved method for producing paper from pulp includes a plurality of subassemblies arranged in the forming or wet section of a Fourdrinier. The Fourdrinier includes a dewatering table having a plurality of blades that are static and on-the run adjustable in height and/or angle to control orientation of paper fibers in the stock to create a superior quality of paper and improved paper strength characteristics. Gravity and vacuum assisted drainage elements are equipped with on-the-run adjustable angle and height dewatering foil blades starting from a paper dryness of 0.1% and extending all the way to 5% dryness. The result of this process and machine is to improve the paper quality, save fibers and chemicals and fulfill the required paper properties. |
| US09951466B2 |
High-heat delivery device
The present invention relates to a high-heat-delivery device suitable for use in an hair straightener, a hair curling iron or an ironing apparatus and suitable for heat transfer to a substrate by direct contact with said substrate, comprising at least one element (A) having a heat transfer contact surface area and at least one element (B) having a heat transfer contact surface, wherein the element (A) comprises a thermoconductive thermoplastic polymer composition comprising at least one polymer and a thermoconductive additive and wherein element (B) comprises a thermoplastic polymer composition comprising a polymer and at least one thermo-releasable substance. Further, the present invention relates to a method for releasing a thermo-releasable substance. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an ironing apparatus, a hair straightener and a hair curling iron comprising the high-heat delivery device. |
| US09951465B1 |
Dryer appliance and sensor assembly thereof
A dryer appliance and sensor assembly are provided. The sensor assembly may include a sensor housing, an appliance sensor, a wireless transmission tag, and a wireless tag reader. The sensor housing may extend within a drum and define a compartment proximate a space for the receipt of clothes. The appliance sensor may be positioned on the sensor housing. The wireless transmission tag may be positioned within the compartment. The wireless transmission tag may be in communication with the appliance sensor. The wireless tag reader may be in operable communication with the wireless transmission tag. |
| US09951462B2 |
Method for supplying heated water from a water heater appliance to a washing machine appliance
A method for supplying heated water from a water heater appliance to a washing machine appliance includes initiating a wash cycle of the washing machine appliance, directing heated water from a water heater appliance into the washing machine appliance if a set point temperature of the water heater appliance is equal to or greater than a specific temperature and/or if the water heater appliance contains a volume of heated water required for the wash cycle of the washing machine appliance, and delaying the wash cycle of the washing machine appliance if the set point temperature of the water heater appliance is not equal to or greater than the specific temperature and/or if the water heater appliance does not contain the volume of heated water required for the wash cycle of the washing machine appliance. |
| US09951455B2 |
Laundry treatment apparatus
A laundry treatment apparatus including a cabinet forming an appearance of the apparatus, a drum disposed in the cabinet and having a laundry space therein to for accommodate laundry, a rotating shaft for rotatably supporting the drum in the cabinet, a balancer including a housing fixed to the drum, an accommodation space defined in the housing, a balancing unit movably provided in the accommodation space, and a housing power line provided in the accommodation space to supply electric power to the balancing unit, a shaft through-hole formed through the rotating shaft, a first connecting line disposed in the shaft through-hole and connected to a power source, a second connecting line connected to the housing power line, and a connector for coupling the first connecting line to the second connecting line is disclosed. |
| US09951452B2 |
Drum-type washing machine
Disclosed is a drum type washing machine, including a cabinet configured to form an outer appearance; a tub in the cabinet and configured to contain water therein; a drum in the tub and configured to accommodate laundry therein; and a lifter on the drum, configured to lift the laundry in the drum by upward rotation of the drum. The lifter comprises a lifter housing fixed to the drum and having an opening in one or more ends or sides thereof; and a lifter plate pivotally coupled to the lifter housing, the lifter plate being configured to hold water in the lifter during the upward rotation of the drum. |
| US09951451B2 |
Home appliance and online system including the same
An online system, including a smart laundry machine, which is capable of easily and inexpensively using the smart laundry machine is disclosed. A further extended type of a smart home appliance, an online system including the same, and a method of using the online system are also disclosed. A laundry machine communicates with a server, is remotely controlled by an external terminal through the server, and has a control panel for a user interface. The control panel includes a course selection unit, an option selection unit, a start button, a display unit to display state information of the laundry machine, and a remote service activation input unit to set or cancel remote service activation according to user selection. The remote control is performed only in a case in which the remote service activation is set. |
| US09951446B2 |
Infrared transparent visible opaque fabrics
Infrared-transparent visible-opaque fabrics for wearable personal thermal management. |
| US09951445B2 |
Systems and methods for improving and controlling yarn texture
A system and method for automated control and improvement of the consistency of yarn texture in a yarn system. The system and method are configured to monitor, improve and/or control the operating conditions of the yarn system. A plurality of sensors sense the operating conditions and send the sensed conditions to a processor. The processor monitoring the system can cause adjustments to the operating conditions to be made if a condition is outside of a predetermined tolerance. |
| US09951443B2 |
Separators, electrodes, half-cells, and cells of electrical energy storage devices
Electrodes, separators, half-cells, and full cells of electrical energy storage devices are made with electrospinning and isostatic compression. The electrical energy storage device may include electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs, also known as “supercapacitors”), hybrid supercapacitors (“HSCs”), Li-ion capacitors and electrochemical storage devices, Na-ion capacitors and electrochemical storage devices, polymer electrolyte fuel cells, and still other capacitors and electrochemical storage cells. |
| US09951439B2 |
Method for growing silicon carbide crystal
In the present invention, a crucible formed of SiC as a main component is used as a container for a Si—C solution. A metal element M (M is at least one metal element selected from at least one of a first group consisting of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho and Lu, a second group consisting of Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and Cu and a third group consisting of Al, Ga, Ge, Sn, Pb and Zn) is added to the Si—C solution and the crucible is heated to elute Si and C, which are derived from a main component SiC of the crucible, from a high-temperature surface region of the crucible in contact with the Si—C solution, into the Si—C solution. In this way, precipitation of a SiC polycrystal on a surface of the crucible in contact with the Si—C solution is suppressed. |
| US09951437B2 |
Insulator plate for metal plating control
Among other things, one or more systems and techniques for promoting metal plating uniformity are provided. An insulator plate is positioned relative to a semiconductor wafer that is to be electroplated with metal during a metal plating process. The insulator plate comprises an insulator ring that provides a resistance to electrical plating current passing through the insulator ring to the semiconductor wafer. The insulator plate comprises one or more porous regions, such as holes, that introduce little to no additional resistance to electrical plating current passing through such porous regions to the semiconductor wafer. The insulator plate influences electrical plating current so that edge plating current has a current value similar to a center plating current. The similarity in plating current promotes metal plating uniformity for the semiconductor wafer. |
| US09951435B2 |
Coating packaged chamber parts for semiconductor plasma apparatus
An advanced coating for parts used in plasma processing chamber. The advanced coating is formed over an anodized surface that has not been sealed. After the coating is formed, the coated area is masked, and the remaining anodized surface is sealed. The porous and rough structure of the anodized but un-sealed aluminum enhances adhesion of the coating. However, to prevent particle generation, the exposed anodized surface is sealed after formation of the coating. The coating can be of yttria, formed by plasma enhanced atomic deposition techniques which results in a dense and smooth coating. |
| US09951434B2 |
Printed wiring board, semiconductor package and method for manufacturing printed wiring board
A printed wiring board includes a core laminate including insulating layers and conductor layers, a first build-up layer formed on first surface of the laminate and including first interlayer resin and conductor layers, and a second build-up layer formed on second surface of the core laminate on the opposite side and including second interlayer resin and conductor layers. The conductor layers in the laminate include first and second conductor layers such that the first conductor layer is embedded in one of the insulating layers forming the first surface of the laminate and has an exposed surface exposed from the insulating layer and that the second conductor layer is formed on one of the insulating layers forming the second surface of the laminate, and the first interlayer resin layer has thickness greater than thickness of the second interlayer resin layer. |
| US09951428B2 |
Anti-corrosion formulations that are stable during storage
The present invention relates to formulations for inhibiting the corrosion of the metals used in the oil industry, and more generally in all types of industries for drilling for fossil compounds or ores, such as gas or oil. The corrosion-inhibiting formulations are stable during storage, and have improved properties due to the presence of at least one compound having at least one triazine unit. The invention also relates to the use of at least one compound comprising at least one triazine unit in a corrosion-inhibiting formulation, as well as to the use of said corrosion-inhibiting formulation in the oil, gas and mining industry. |
| US09951427B2 |
Coating arrangement
A coating arrangement has the following characteristics: —particles having a scratch hardness greater than or equal to 9 and a median grain size that can be determined, —a coating having a thickness equaling approximately half the median grain size, —a coating carrier with a surface comprising recesses, wherein a portion greater than 85% of the recesses compared to a surface surrounding the associated recess is designed with a depth smaller than approximately 10% and/or a opening width smaller than or equal to approximately 15% of the coating thickness, and —the coating is applied to the surface of the coating carrier and surrounds the particles at least at a lower region oriented toward the coating carrier. |
| US09951424B2 |
Plating method for printed layer
A plating method includes: providing a work piece which is metal or non-metal; forming a printed layer on a predetermined region of a surface of the work piece through printing electrical conductive material on the predetermined region; forming a plated layer through plating the printed layer and the surface of the work piece. |
| US09951423B2 |
Systems and methods for measuring entrained vapor
A system for supplying precursor gas to a substrate processing chamber includes a first mass flow controller including an inlet to receive a carrier gas and an outlet. An ampoule is configured to supply a precursor gas. A valve system, in fluid communication with the first mass flow controller and the ampoule, is configured to supply the precursor gas and the carrier gas to a momentum-based flow restriction member. A pressure sensing system is configured to sense an inlet pressure at an inlet of the momentum-based flow restriction member and an outlet pressure at an outlet of the momentum-based flow restriction member. A controller is configured to determine a flow rate of the precursor gas at the outlet of the momentum-based flow restriction member based on a difference between the inlet pressure and the outlet pressure. |
| US09951420B2 |
Nanowire growth system having nanoparticles aerosol generator
A nanoparticles aerosol generator is disclosed. The nanoparticles aerosol generator includes an evaporation chamber having a wall, a container containing a source material, and a heating device configured to heat the source material. The nanoparticles aerosol generator also includes a carrier gas source configured to blow a carrier gas toward the source material to generate a nanoparticles aerosol with nanoparticles of the source material suspended therein. The nanoparticles aerosol generator further includes a dilution gas source configured to supply a dilution gas into the chamber to flow substantially along the wall within the chamber and to dilute the nanoparticles aerosol. |
| US09951418B2 |
Method for preparing structured graphene on SiC substrate based on Cl2 reaction
Disclosed is a method for preparing structured graphene on a SiC substrate on the basis of Cl2 reaction, the procedures are as follows: firstly, performing standard cleaning to a SiC sample chip; depositing a layer of SiO2 on the surface of the SiC sample chip and engraving a figure window on the SiO2 layer; then arranging the windowed sample chip in a quartz tube, introducing a mixed gas of Ar and Cl2 into the quartz tube, reacting the bare SiC with Cl2 for 3-8 min at 700-1100° C. to generate a carbon film; arranging the generated carbon film in Ar gas, annealing for 10-30 min at 1000-1200° C. to generate the structured graphene on the window on the carbon film. The method is simple and safe; the generated structured graphene has a smooth surface and low porosity and can be used for making microelectronic devices. |
| US09951417B2 |
Method of depositing material
Material is deposited in a desired pattern by spontaneous deposition of precursor gas at regions of a surface that are prepared using a beam to provide conditions to support the initiation of the spontaneous reaction. Once the reaction is initiated, it continues in the absence of the beam at the regions of the surface at which the reaction was initiated. |
| US09951416B2 |
Vacuum coating apparatus
A vacuum coating apparatus includes at least a chamber, an arc discharge plasma source, a feeding-reeling unit, and a roller set. The first and second openings are connecting with the feeding or reeling unit so as to allow the substrate to enter and leave the chamber therethrough, respectively. The arc discharge plasma source located inside the chamber generates the plasma, which discharges radially from the arc discharge plasma source as its center. The roller set includes a plurality of the first rollers, which are located in the chamber and enclosing the arc discharge plasma source. A first surface of the substrate is facing the plurality of the first rollers and contacts tightly on the periphery of the first rollers so that the first rollers can rotate by the moving of the substrate. The material evaporated and emitted by the plasma is attached onto the first surface of the substrate. |
| US09951414B2 |
Magnetically enhanced high density plasma-chemical vapor deposition plasma source for depositing diamond and diamond-like films
A magnetically enhanced HDP-CVD plasma source includes a hollow cathode target and an anode. The anode and cathode form a gap. A cathode target magnet assembly forms magnetic field lines that are substantially perpendicular to a cathode target surface. The gap magnet assembly forms a cusp magnetic field in the gap that is coupled with the cathode target magnetic field. The magnetic field lines cross a pole piece electrode positioned in the gap. This pole piece is isolated from ground and can be connected with a voltage power supply. The pole piece can have a negative, positive, or floating electric potential. The plasma source can be configured to generate volume discharge. The gap size prohibits generation of plasma discharge in the gap. By controlling the duration, value and a sign of the electric potential on the pole piece, the plasma ionization can be controlled. The magnetically enhanced HDP-CVD source can also be used for chemically enhanced ionized physical vapor deposition (CE-IPVD). Gas flows through the gap between hollow cathode and anode. The cathode target is inductively grounded, and the substrate is periodically inductively grounded. |
| US09951413B2 |
Molybdenum-based target and process for producing a target by thermal spraying
A target of a nominal thickness includes molybdenum. The target has a lamellar microstructure and an oxygen content of less than 1000 ppm, preferably less than 600 ppm, and even more preferably less than 450 ppm. An electrical resistivity of the target is less than five times, preferably three times and more preferably twice the theoretical electrical resistivity of the compound. |
| US09951409B2 |
Modified surface properties of percussion tools used in downhole drilling
A system and method of fabricating a percussion tool that includes one or more surfaces modified using the ferritic nitrocarburization process. The percussion tool includes a piston positioned in sliding contact within a casing. The piston includes an inner wall and an outer wall, where the inner wall defines a passageway extending longitudinally therethrough. The outer wall is positioned in close fitting relationship with an internal surface of the casing. One or more surfaces of at least one of the casing's internal surface and/or the piston's outer wall are modified using the ferritic nitrocarburization process. |
| US09951408B2 |
Method and apparatus for load-locked printing
The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for preventing oxidation or contamination during a circuit printing operation. The circuit printing operation can be directed to OLED-type printing. In an exemplary embodiment, the printing process is conducted at a load-locked printer housing having one or more of chambers. Each chamber is partitioned from the other chambers by physical gates or fluidic curtains. A controller coordinates transportation of a substrate through the system and purges the system by timely opening appropriate gates. The controller may also control the printing operation by energizing the print-head at a time when the substrate is positioned substantially thereunder. |
| US09951407B2 |
Wiping nozzle of hot-dip metal plating equipment and wiping position control device for hot-dip metal plating equipment
The present invention reduces the amount of gas consumed, edge-overcoating and splashing and adjusts plating thickness with high precision by providing a wiping nozzle with: thin plates, which are each inserted into a lip from the entrances to the lip for a specified distance to the inside of the two ends of the lip in the sheet width direction in order to seal the gas jet where the thin plates are inserted, and which are movable in the sheet width direction of the lip; and ropes extending in the sheet width direction of the lip so as to track the movements of the thin plates and seal the gas jet in a specified range. |
| US09951400B1 |
Wrought machinable brass alloy
A wrought machinable low copper, silicon, zinc alloy having a copper content between about 66 weight percent and about 70 weight percent and wherein the silicon content is between about 1.3 weight percent and about 2.0 weight percent. |
| US09951399B2 |
Separation of protactinum, actinium, and other radionuclides from proton irradiated thorium target
Protactinium, actinium, radium, radiolanthanides and other radionuclide fission products were separated and recovered from a proton-irradiated thorium target. The target was dissolved in concentrated HCl, which formed anionic complexes of protactinium but not with thorium, actinium, radium, or radiolanthanides. Protactinium was separated from soluble thorium by loading a concentrated HCl solution of the target onto a column of strongly basic anion exchanger resin and eluting with concentrated HCl. Actinium, radium and radiolanthanides elute with thorium. The protactinium that is retained on the column, along with other radionuclides, is eluted may subsequently treated to remove radionuclide impurities to afford a fraction of substantially pure protactinium. The eluate with the soluble thorium, actinium, radium and radiolanthanides may be subjected to treatment with citric acid to form anionic thorium, loaded onto a cationic exchanger resin, and eluted. Actinium, radium and radiolanthanides that are retained can be subjected to extraction chromatography to separate the actinium from the radium and from the radio lanthanides. |
| US09951398B2 |
Methods for gas-phase thermochromatographic separations of fission and activation products
Methods are provided for characterizing samples containing chemical elements such as rare earth elements, actinides, and heavy transition metals by treating the samples to form volatile complexes of the elements (e.g., β-diketonate complexes or other organic ligand complexes of the elements) and then analyzing the complexes, for example, via gas-phase thermochromatography. Also provided are methods for separating and/or recovering such chemical elements. The methods produce less waste and can be performed more rapidly than conventional liquid extraction methods and can provide separated elements of high purity (e.g., 99.9999% purity). |
| US09951396B2 |
System and method for quenching castings
A quench system includes an enclosure defining a quench chamber sized to receive hot castings, and bulk air fans in fluid communication with the quench chamber and configured to establish a bulk flow of cooling air that surrounds and extracts heat from the hot castings at a first cooling rate. The quench system also includes a pressurized cooling system in fluid communication with a plurality of nozzles within the quench chamber and configured to spray a plurality of a directed flows of cooling fluid onto the hot castings to extract heat at a second cooling rate. The quench system further includes a programmable controller configured to sequentially activate the bulk air fans to cool the casting at the first cooling rate for a first predetermined period of time, and then activate the pressurized cooling system to cool the casting at the second cooling rate for a second predetermined period of time. |
| US09951395B2 |
Method for strengthening steel plate member
Provided is a method for strengthening a steel plate member employing a heating and quenching treatment. The method includes a first heating step, a partial cooling step, a second heating step and an entire cooling step, each step conducted in the written order. |
| US09951392B2 |
Substrate replenishment and byproduct removal improve yeast cell-free protein synthesis
Methods and kits are provided for calibrating a cell-free protein synthesis reaction for optimal activity. The method includes the steps of providing an extract competent for cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS); performing cell-free protein synthesis with the extract; measuring a first reaction end-point where in vitro protein synthesis plateaus; measuring a second reaction end-point where Energy Charge of the extract declines to a level in a range from about 0.40 to about 0.80 of Energy Charge of a control extract; and adjusting Energy Charge of the extract to a level in a range from about 0.80 to about 1.0 of the control extract. |
| US09951389B2 |
Diagnostic markers for treating cell proliferative disorders with telomerase inhibitors
Provided herein are methods for identifying individuals diagnosed with a cell proliferative disorder that will benefit from treatment with a telomerase inhibitor compound. Also provided herein are methods for treating these individuals with telomerase inhibitor compounds. |
| US09951387B2 |
Methods for detection of depressive disorders
The present invention relates generally to the detection or diagnosis of depressive disorders, and provides methods and compositions useful for this purpose. In particular, the present invention provides biomarkers for the detection or diagnosis of major depressive disorder, and methods of use thereof. |
| US09951386B2 |
Methods and systems for processing polynucleotides
The present disclosure provides compositions, methods, systems, and devices for polynucleotide processing. Such polynucleotide processing may be useful for a variety of applications, including polynucleotide sequencing. |
| US09951385B1 |
Methods and apparatus that increase sequencing-by-binding efficiency
A method of nucleic acid detection including (a) contacting a primed template with a polymerase, nucleotide cognate of a first base type and nucleotide cognate of a second base type under ternary complex stabilizing conditions; (b) contacting the primed template nucleic acid with a polymerase, nucleotide cognate of the first base type and nucleotide cognate of a third base type under ternary complex stabilizing conditions; (c) examining products of (a) and (b) for signals produced by a ternary complex that includes the primed template nucleic acid, polymerase and next correct nucleotide, wherein signals for the product of (a) are ambiguous for the first and second base type, and signals for the product of (b) are ambiguous for the first and third base type; (d) disambiguating signals acquired in (c) to identify the next correct nucleotide. |
| US09951380B2 |
Methods and compositions for multiplex PCR
The present invention provides methods, compositions, kits, systems and apparatus that are useful for multiplex PCR of one or more nucleic acids present in a sample. In particular, various target-specific primers are provided that allow for the selective amplification of one or more target sequences. In one aspect, the invention relates to target-specific primers useful for the selective amplification of one or more target sequences associated with cancer or inherited disease. In some aspects, amplified target sequences obtained using the disclosed methods, kits, systems and apparatuses can be used in various downstream processes including nucleic acid sequencing and used to detect the presence of genetic variants. |
| US09951377B2 |
Methods, kits and compositions pertaining to the suppression of the detectable probe binding to randomly distributed repeat sequences in genomic nucleic acid
This invention is directed to methods, kits, non-nucleotide probes as well as other compositions pertaining to the suppression of binding of detectable nucleic acid probes to undesired nucleotide sequences of genomic nucleic acid in assays designed to determine target genomic nucleic acid. |
| US09951373B2 |
Oplophorus-derived luciferases, novel coelenterazine substrates, and methods of use
An isolated polynucleotide encoding a modified luciferase polypeptide and substrates. The OgLuc variant polypeptide has at least 60% amino acid sequence identity to SEQ ID NO: 1 and at least one amino acid substitution at a position corresponding to an amino acid in SEQ ID NO: 1. The OgLuc variant polypeptide has at least one of enhanced luminescence, enhanced signal stability, and enhanced protein stability relative to the corresponding polypeptide of the wild-type Oplophorus luciferase. |
| US09951372B2 |
Compounds and methods for assaying redox state of metabolically active cells and methods for measuring NAD(P)/NAD(P)H
The present invention provides compounds and methods for assaying redox state of metabolically active cells and methods for assaying enzyme activity and/or metabolite level by coupling to redox defining co-factor NAD(P)/NAD(P)H measurement. |
| US09951371B2 |
Probes and assays for measuring E3 ligase activity
Provided herein is technology relating to the biological process of protein ubiquitination and particularly, but not exclusively, to compositions and methods for studying protein ubiquitination and developing therapeutics to modulate protein ubiquitination. |
| US09951370B2 |
Chemical indicating composition, autoclave process indicator and method for preparing autoclave process indicator
A chemical indicating composition. The composition can include an aqueous resin in a form of polymer emulsion or polymer dispersion, the aqueous resin comprising a first aqueous resin composition and a second aqueous resin composition; a film-forming agent; a color changing composition; and water as a solvent. The chemical indicating composition of this disclosure can be used in an autoclave process indicator. |
| US09951369B2 |
Device designed to receive a biological sample
A device designed to receive a biological sample and methods of using the same are disclosed. The device includes a leak-proof container, a sampler, and a receptacle. The container includes an enclosure, a filler and a closing mechanism that hermetically closes the filler. The sampler is positioned inside the enclosure. The sampler samples biological and/or physiochemical information from a sample and analyzes the information. The receptacle includes a disinfecting agent that is released when the receptacle is opened. An analysis restrictor inhibits analysis by the sampler. A portion of the sampler and/or the analysis restrictor is designed to shift from a first position that prevents analysis of the sampler to a second position that allows analysis of the sampler. A receptacle opening is mechanically induced when shifting from the first position to the second position. |
| US09951367B2 |
Activated formylglycine-generating enzymes and methods of producing and using the same
The present disclosure provides activated formylglycine-generating enzymes (FGE), methods of producing activated FGE, and their use in methods of producing a protein comprising a formylglycine (FGly) residue. The methods of producing activated FGE, as well as methods of use of activated FGE in producing FGly-containing proteins, include both cell-based and cell-free methods. Compositions and kits that find use, e.g., in practicing the methods of the present disclosure are also provided. |
| US09951363B2 |
Enzymatic hydrolysis of old corrugated cardboard (OCC) fines from recycled linerboard mill waste rejects
A significant fraction of short fibers (fines) is produced while recycling Old Corrugated Containerboards (OCC), which are usually rejected as solid waste stream, requiring landfilling and posing environmental problems. The major component of these fines rejects are primarily cellulose that can be hydrolyzed into sugars for possible fermentation into biofuels, bioplastics or other sugar based products. Use of fines also offers benefits such as negative costs and production of fermentable sugars without requiring complex pretreatment processes, now required to hydrolyze and eliminate inhibitors from hydrolyzate. Enzymatic hydrolysis of reject fines from a recycled OCC mill, employing different strains of cellulases, were investigated. Fillers (up to 30 mass %) in the fines increases the required dosage of enzymes and costs. Enzyme loading can be lowered by addition of surfactants to reduce their inhibitory activity. The nonionic surfactant Triton X-80 improved hydrolysis yields by up to 10 percent points. |
| US09951361B2 |
Ensifer sp. strain and method for producing psicose using same
A novel the Ensifer adhaerens strain isolated from soil and a method of producing psicose using the same are provided. |
| US09951360B2 |
Fermentation product containing equol-producing microorganism having maintained equol-producing ability, and method for producing same
An object of the present invention is to provide a fermented product containing equol-producing microorganisms in the state of living cells by which equol production ability is maintained.When producing a fermented material by using an equol-producing microorganism, with soybean powder or soybean milk as raw materials, (1) preparing a mother starter by fermentation under anaerobic conditions by using an equol-producing microorganism in the presence of a daidzein species at pH 5.0 or higher, (2) preparing a bulk starter by fermentation under anaerobic conditions by using said mother starter in the presence of a daidzein species at pH 5.0 or higher, and (3) preparing a fermented material by fermentation by using said bulk starter in a medium containing soybean powder or soybean milk, enables production of a fermented material containing microorganisms in the state of living cells in which the equol production ability is maintained. |
| US09951359B2 |
Heat-stable, FE-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase for aldehyde detoxification
The present invention relates to microorganisms and polypeptides for detoxifying aldehydes associated with industrial fermentations. In particular, a heat-stable, NADPH- and iron-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase was cloned from Thermoanaerobacter pseudethanolicus 39E and displayed activity against a number of aldehydes including inhibitory compounds that are produced during the dilute-acid pretreatment process of lignocellulosic biomass before fermentation to biofuels. Methods to use the microorganisms and polypeptides of the invention for improved conversion of bio mass to biofuel are provided as well as use of the enzyme in metabolic engineering strategies for producing longer-chain alcohols from sugars using thermophilic, fermentative microorganisms. |
| US09951355B2 |
Microorganisms for the production of methacrylic acid
The invention provides a non-naturally occurring microbial organism having a 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid, 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid or methacrylic acid pathway. The microbial organism contains at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding an enzyme in a 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid, 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid or methacrylic acid pathway. The invention additionally provides a method for producing 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid, 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid or methacrylic acid. The method can include culturing a 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid, 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid or methacrylic acid producing microbial organism expressing at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding a 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid, 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid or methacrylic acid pathway enzyme in a sufficient amount and culturing under conditions and for a sufficient period of time to produce 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid, 3-hydroxyisobutyric acid or methacrylic acid. |
| US09951350B2 |
Methods of preparing cells and compositions
The present invention provides a method of preparing adult red blood cells from stem cells in vitro using certain transcription factors for use in medicine, transfusions and transplants. The invention also provides blood compositions with cells prepared by the method. |
| US09951345B2 |
Host cells and methods for producing diacid compounds
The present invention provides for a method of producing one or more fatty acid derived dicarboxylic acids in a genetically modified host cell which does not naturally produce the one or more derived fatty acid derived dicarboxylic acids. The invention provides for the biosynthesis of dicarboxylic acid ranging in length from C3 to C26. The host cell can be further modified to increase fatty acid production or export of the desired fatty acid derived compound, and/or decrease fatty acid storage or metabolism. |
| US09951342B2 |
Cultures with improved phage resistance
The present invention provides methods and compositions related to modulating the resistance of a cell against a target nucleic acid or a transcription product thereof. In some preferred embodiments, the present invention provides compositions and methods for the use of one or more cas genes or proteins for modulating the resistance of a cell against a target nucleic acid or a transcription product thereof. In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods and compositions that find use in the development and use of strain combinations and starter culture rotations. In additional embodiments, the present invention provides methods for labelling and/or identifying bacteria. In some preferred embodiments, the present invention provides methods for the use of CRISPR loci to determine the potential virulence of a phage against a cell and the use of CRISPR-cas to modulate the genetic sequence of a phage for increased virulence level. In still further embodiments, the present invention provides means and compositions for the development and use of phages as biocontrol agents. |
| US09951340B2 |
Compositions and methods for bacterial delivery of polypeptides
The methods and compositions described herein relate to the delivery of polypeptides to a target cell, e.g. by utilizing engineered non-pathogenic bacteria comprising a type three secretion system (T3SS) and T3SS-compatible substrates. In one aspect, described herein are non-pathogenic microbial cells that have been engineered to express both a functional type three secretion system (T3SS) and at least one polypeptide that is compatible with the T3SS. Due to the wide variety of polypeptides that can be delivered to a target eukaryotic cell using the compositions and systems described herein, a commensurately wide variety of applications is contemplated, e.g. therapeutics and reprogramming. |
| US09951336B2 |
Composition for reducing senescence of cell or subject comprising smurf2 inhibitor and use thereof
A composition for reducing a level of senescence of a cell or subject, a method of reducing a level of senescence in a cell or subject by using the composition, and a method of preventing and treating symptoms or diseases related to or caused by senescence of a cell or subject. |
| US09951331B2 |
Targeting microRNA-26a/b for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease
Methods for treating a neurodegenerative disorder associated with aggregation of tau protein in the brain of a subject, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of one or more inhibitory nucleic acids targeting microRNA-26a, microRNA-26b, or both microRNA-26a and 26b. |
| US09951327B1 |
Efficient and rapid method for assembling and cloning double-stranded DNA fragments
The invention is directed to an in vitro method for joining a first set of double-stranded (ds) DNA molecules. Small molecules acting as chaperone agents are identified that promote efficient and rapid assembly (that is, joining) of overlapping double-stranded DNA fragments. |
| US09951326B2 |
Enhancing microbial metabolism of C5 organic carbon
Provided herein are recombinant microorganisms having two or more copies of a nucleic acid sequence encoding xylose isomerase, wherein the nucleic acid encoding the xylose isomerase is an exogenous nucleic acid. Optionally, the recombinant microorganisms include at least one nucleic acid sequence encoding a xylulose kinase and/or at least one nucleic acid sequence encoding a xylose transporter. The provided recombinant microorganisms are capable of growing on xylose as a carbon source. |
| US09951324B2 |
PSMA binding ligand-linker conjugates and methods for using
Described herein are prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) binding conjugates that are useful for delivering therapeutic, diagnostic and imaging agents. Also described herein are pharmaceutical compositions containing them and methods of using the conjugates and compositions. Also described are processes for manufacture of the conjugates and the compositions containing them. |
| US09951323B2 |
Pullulanase chimeras and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to hybrid polypeptides having pullulanase activity, and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US09951322B2 |
Methods and compositions related to thioesterase enzymes
The present invention relates to novel mutant thioesterase enzymes and naturally-occurring equivalents thereof, compositions made from such enzymes and uses of thioesterase enzymes. In particular, the present invention provides mutant thioesterase enzymes that have altered properties, for example, altered substrate specificity, altered activity, altered selectivity, and/or altered proportional yields in the product mixtures. The present invention also provides polynucleotides encoding such mutant thioesterase enzymes, and vectors and host cells comprising such polynucleotides. The invention further provides for novel uses of thioesterases in the production of various fatty acid derivatives, which are useful as, or as components of, industrial chemicals and fuels. |
| US09951320B2 |
DNA polymerases with improved activity
Disclosed are DNA polymerases having increased reverse transcriptase efficiency relative to a corresponding, unmodified polymerase. The polymerases are useful in a variety of disclosed primer extension methods. Also disclosed are related compositions, including recombinant nucleic acids, vectors, and host cells, which are useful, e.g., for production of the DNA polymerases. |
| US09951317B2 |
Highly efficient influenza matrix (M1) proteins
This invention discloses a method of increasing production of virus-like particles comprising expressing an avian influenza matrix protein. The invention also comprises methods of making and using said VLPs. |
| US09951316B2 |
Enhancers of induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming
Described herein, inter alia, are methods and compositions useful for induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming. |
| US09951314B2 |
Differentiation of human embryonic stem cells
The present invention provides methods to promote the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into insulin producing cells. In particular, the present invention provides a method to produce a population of cells, wherein greater than 80% of the cells in the population express markers characteristic of the definitive endoderm lineage. |
| US09951309B2 |
Stem cell packaging and shipping
This invention concerns methods of packaging and shipping stem cells. Also disclosed are related package products. |
| US09951304B2 |
Cleaning pack
Multi-compartment water-soluble pack comprising a cleaning composition and an enveloping material where the pack comprises a first compartment containing a first composition in liquid form comprising: i) a hygroscopic material; and ii) more than about 15% of water; wherein the first composition has an equilibrium relative humidity of less than about 65% at 20° C. |
| US09951299B2 |
Cutinase variants and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to variants with cutinase activity of a parent cutinase, comprising an alteration at one or more (e.g. several) positions corresponding to positions: 36, 37, 40, 78, 90, 114, 150, 196, 216, or 217 of SEQ ID NO: 2, wherein the alteration is a substitution for positions 40, 78, 90, 114, 150, 196 and 216, and a deletion for positions 36, 37 and 217, and wherein the variant has at least 75% but less than 100% sequence identity to the mature polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 2.The present invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the variants; nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides; and method for obtaining and methods of producing the variants. It also relates to compositions comprising the variant, and to methods for using the variant. |
| US09951295B2 |
Compositions for deposition on biological surfaces
A sucrose polyester composition that imparts a coating providing a slickness to teeth when delivered from an oral care composition. |
| US09951291B2 |
Producing carbon-based boundary films from catalytically active lubricant additives
A lubricant composition includes an oil including a plurality of long-chain hydrocarbon molecules. A quantity of a catalytically active metal-organic additive is mixed with the oil. The metal-organic additive is formulated to fragment the long-chain hydrocarbon molecules of the oil into at least one of dimers and trimers under the influence of at least one of a mechanical loading and a thermal loading. In some embodiments, the metal-organic additive includes a compound of formula II: where: X is Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Tc, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Cd, Hf, Ta, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, Au, Hg, Rf, Db, Sg, Bh, Hs, Mt, Ds, Rg or Cn, and R1, R2, R3 and R4 are alkyl or alkyl halide. |
| US09951290B2 |
Lubricant compositions
A method for improving corrosion protection and friction coefficient in an engine or other mechanical component lubricated with a lubricating oil by using as the lubricating oil a formulated oil. The formulated oil has a composition comprising a lubricating oil base stock as a major component, and a mixture of (i) at least one organic molybdenum compound, and (ii) at least one borated ester, as a minor component. Corrosion protection and friction coefficient are improved as compared to corrosion protection and friction coefficient achieved using a lubricating oil containing a minor component other than the mixture of (i) at least one organic molybdenum compound, and (ii) at least one borated ester. |
| US09951289B2 |
Refrigeration oil
The present invention relates to a novel refrigeration oil comprising any one of the following three: (A) a polyol ester (POE) obtained by reacting one or more polyol(s) with one or more C4-10 straight or branched chain fatty acid(s) and one or more C5-10 fatty acid(s) having a specific structure, (B) a mixture of above (A) polyol ester and another polyol ester obtained by reacting one or more polyol(s) with one or more C4-10 straight or branched chain fatty acid(s) and one or more C5-10 fatty acid(s) having a specific structure, and (C) a mixture of one or both of the aforesaid (A) polyol ester and (B) polyol ester with a polyol ester obtained by reacting a polyol with the other fatty acid than the aforesaid C5-10 fatty acid(s) having a specific structure. |
| US09951287B2 |
Low sulfur coal additive for improved furnace operation
The present invention is directed to additives for coal-fired furnaces, particularly furnaces using a layer of slag to capture coal particles for combustion. The additive(s) include iron, mineralizer(s), handling aid(s), flow aid(s), and/or abrasive material(s). The iron and mineralizers can lower the melting temperature of ash in low-iron, high alkali coals, leading to improved furnace performance. |
| US09951286B2 |
Material consisting of a preparation comprising ferrocene
The invention relates to a material consisting of a preparation made from a mixture of ferrocene and an inert flameproof material such as plaster, the material being presented in the form of granules and being suitable for spreading over a hydrocarbon fire in a simple and rapid manner such that, under the effect of the heat from the fire, the ferrocene contained in the granulated material is diffused progressively and homogeneously in a vapor phase over the base of the flames, so as to optimize the combustion of the hydrocarbon and to reduce the emission of smoke and unwanted particles. |
| US09951285B2 |
Quaternized nitrogen compounds and use thereof as additives in fuels and lubricants
The present invention relates to novel quaternized nitrogen compounds, to the preparation thereof and to the use thereof as a fuel and lubricant additive, more particularly as a detergent additive; to additive packages which comprise these compounds; and to fuels and lubricants thus additized. The present invention further relates to the use of these quaternized nitrogen compounds as a fuel additive for reducing or preventing deposits in the injection systems of direct-injection diesel engines, especially in common-rail injection systems, for reducing the fuel consumption of direct-injection diesel engines, especially of diesel engines with common-rail injection systems, and for minimizing power loss in direct-injection diesel engines, especially in diesel engines with common-rail injection systems. |
| US09951283B2 |
Petroleum upgrading and desulfurizing process
A petroleum feedstock upgrading method is provided. The method includes supplying a mixed stream that includes hydrocarbon feedstock and water to a hydrothermal reactor where the mixed stream is maintained at a temperature and pressure greater than the critical temperatures and pressure of water in the absence of catalyst for a residence time sufficient to convert the mixed stream into a modified stream having an increased concentration of lighter hydrocarbons and/or concentration of sulfur containing compounds. The modified stream is then supplied to an adsorptive reaction stage charged with a solid adsorbent operable to remove at least a portion of the sulfur present to produce a trimmed stream. The trimmed stream is then separated into a gas and a liquid streams, and the liquid stream is separated into a water stream and an upgraded hydrocarbon product stream. |
| US09951282B2 |
Process for introducing fine and coarse additives for hydroconversion of heavy hydrocarbons
A process for slurry-phase hydrocracking of a heavy hydrocarbon feedstock in a reactor, such as an upflow bubble column reactor, includes separately introducing additive in two size ranges into the feedstock. A fine size particle additive is introduced upstream of a coarse size particle additive. |
| US09951279B2 |
Gasifier with controlled biochar removal mechanism
A biochar and electric power generator that receives carbonaceous material and outputs variable amounts of electrical energy and char, including a pyrolysis module, a reaction module, and a char removal mechanism arranged between the pyrolysis module and the reaction module, an engine module including an engine and an alternator, configured to convert gaseous fuel produced by the reaction module into electric power and to provide waste heat to the pyrolysis module, and a flare configured to burn tar gas and to provide waste heat to the pyrolysis module. |
| US09951277B2 |
Liquid crystal compound having 1,1,3,3-tetrafluoroallyloxy group, liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
To show a liquid crystal compound satisfying at least one of physical properties such as a high stability to heat, light or the like, a high clearing point, a low minimum temperature of a liquid crystal phase, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a large dielectric anisotropy, a suitable elastic constant and an excellent compatibility with other liquid crystal compounds, a liquid crystal composition containing the compound and a liquid crystal display device including the composition.A compound represented by formula (1): wherein, in formula (1), for example, R1 is alkyl having 1 to 15 carbons; ring A1 and ring A2 are 1,4-cyclohexylene, 1,4-cyclohexenylene, 1,4-phenylene, 1,4-phenylene in which at least one piece of hydrogen is replaced by halogen, tetrahydropyran-2,5-diyl or 1,3-dioxane-2,5-diyl; Z1 and Z2 are a single bond or —CF2O—; L1, L2 and L3 are halogen or hydrogen; and a is 0 to 3. |
| US09951274B2 |
Liquid-crystalline medium
The invention relates to compounds of the formula I, to a liquid-crystalline medium which comprises at least one compound of the formula I, in which R1, R1*, L1, L2, L3 and L4 have the meanings indicated herein, and to the use thereof for an active-matrix display, in particular based on the VA, PSA, PS-VA, PM-VA, PALC, IPS, PS-IPS, SA-VA, SS-VA, FFS or PS-FFS effect. |
| US09951267B2 |
Infused and coated proppant containing chemical treatment agents and methods of using same
Proppant compositions and methods for using same are disclosed herein. In particular, a proppant composition for use in hydraulic fracturing is disclosed herein. The proppant composition can contain a plurality of particulates and at least one particulate of the plurality of particulates containing a chemical treatment agent. The at least one particulate having a long term permeability measured in accordance with ISO 13503-5 at 7,500 psi of at least about 10 D. The at least one chemical treatment agent can separate from the at least one particulate when located inside a fracture of a subterranean formation after a period of time. |
| US09951265B2 |
System and methods to deliver energy downhole
A method is provided to deliver energy downhole with a heat and nitrogen generating reaction, wherein the heat and nitrogen generating reaction occurs in-situ with an acid-generating reaction. The heat and nitrogen generating reaction is initiated by injecting into a reservoir a) nitrogen gas-generating reactants which react to generate heat at a pH of less than 8.0; b) an acid precursor which is capable of hydrolyzing in-situ in the reservoir to generate a sufficient amount of acid to maintain the reactants at a pH of less than 8.0, for a reaction that generates at least 20 kcal of heat per mole of reactants. |
| US09951260B2 |
Vegetable oil-based pressure sensitive adhesives
A pressure sensitive adhesive construct comprising: (a) a backing substrate; and (b) a pressure sensitive adhesive composition disposed on the backing substrate, wherein the pressure sensitive adhesive includes a product made from at least one epoxidized vegetable oil and at least one dibasic acid or anhydride, or a combination of a dibasic acid or anhydride and a monobasic acid or anhydride. |
| US09951259B2 |
Adhesive composition and laminate
Provided is an adhesive which, in a metal foil-containing laminated composite film used in a high temperature sterilization treatment, is resistant to the effects of moisture in the air during curing, has good workability when used as a solvent-free adhesive, and exhibits excellent adhesive strength and acid resistance. Provided is a method for producing an adhesive composition, the method including: a step of obtaining an alcohol-added isocyanate (E) by reacting a trifunctional or higher isocyanate compound (C2) and a monofunctional alcohol (D) at an equivalence ratio of isocyanate groups in the trifunctional or higher isocyanate compound (C2):monofunctional alcohol (D)=100 mol %:25 to 65 mol %, and a step of mixing a polyisocyanate (A) containing a trifunctional or higher isocyanate compound (C1) and the alcohol-added isocyanate (E), and an alcohol (B) having an acid value of 0.5 to 30 mgKOH/g, so that the equivalence ratio between isocyanate groups in the polyisocyanate (A) and hydroxyl groups in the alcohol (B) (isocyanate groups/hydroxyl groups) is within a range from 0.7 to 2.5. |
| US09951258B2 |
Polyester resin, hot melt adhesive, and hot melt adhesive solution
The polyester resin for a hot melt adhesive includes polycarboxylic acid residues and polyhydric alcohol residues. The polycarboxylic acid resides contain aliphatic polycarboxylic acid residues in a proportion within the range of 50 to 80 mol %. The polyhydric alcohol residues contain propylene glycol residues in a proportion within the range 5 to 60 mol %. |
| US09951257B2 |
Caulking adhesive
An epoxy caulking adhesive, including: a component A and a component B. The component A at least includes the following components in parts by weight: between 50 and 100 parts of an epoxy resin, between 0 and 100 part(s) of an inorganic filler, between 0 and 20 part(s) of a thickener. The component B at least includes the following components in parts by weight: between 20 and 100 parts of an amine curing agent, between 0 and 150 part(s) of the inorganic filler, and between 0 and 25 part(s) of the thickener. The weight ratio of the component A to the component B is between 1:1 and 10:1. At least one of the inorganic filler and the thickener exists in both the component A and the component B. |
| US09951256B2 |
Storage-stable heat-activated tertiary amine catalysts for epoxy resins
Epoxy adhesive compositions contain a heat-activatable catalyst. The heat-activatable catalyst includes a tertiary amine catalyst and a novolac resin that has a weight average molecular weight of at least 3000. One-component epoxy adhesive formulations that contain the heat-activatable catalyst have unexpectedly good storage stability. |
| US09951249B2 |
Aqueous coating agent and gas barrier film
An aqueous coating agent of the invention comprising (A) an aqueous polyurethane resin containing a polyurethane resin having an acid group and a polyamine compound, (B) a water-soluble polymer, and (C) an inorganic layered mineral as main constituents, wherein solid formulation ratios of the aqueous polyurethane resin (A), the water-soluble polymer (B) and the inorganic layered mineral (C) occupied in a total solid content of the aqueous coating agent are within approximate ranges indicated below. Aqueous polyurethane resin (A): 5 to 60 mass % Water-soluble resin (B): 25 to 80 mass % Inorganic layered compound (C): 8 to 20 mass % |
| US09951248B2 |
Bio-degradable compositions and use thereof
A bio-degradable composition comprising 0.2%-10% w/w bio-degradable polymer and an organic non hydroxylic solvent may be used as a coating or adhesive in agriculture and home gardening as well as in other industries. |
| US09951246B2 |
Composition for hard coat, dyed resin body with hard coat, and method for producing dyed resin body with hard coat
A composition for a hard coat according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a trifunctional or more methacrylate monomer and/or acrylate monomer; and a mixed solvent that contains a first solvent including at least one of a glycol-based solvent and a cellosolve-based solvent, and a second solvent including lower alcohol. |
| US09951243B2 |
Carpet coating compositions of improved stability formed from vinyl acetate/ethylene copolymer dispersions
Disclosed are aqueous carpet-coating compositions suitable for use as binders or adhesives in carpet products. Such compositions, prior to being applied to carpet substrates and cured, comprise: A) a selected type of vinyl acetate/ethylene (VAE) copolymer dispersion which has been stabilized with emulsifiers and a cellulose ether-based protective colloid, and B) at least one carbon black based filler in the form of a dispersion/slurry with a solids content between 20 and 70%. These coating compositions exhibit especially desirable initial viscosity and viscosity stability characteristics. Carpet products which utilize such coating compositions to provide binder and/or adhesive layer within the carpet are also disclosed. Such carpet products can have desirable odor-controlling and odor-absorbing properties. |
| US09951239B2 |
Ink set and image forming method
An ink set including an ink composition including resin particles, a colorant, and water, and a treatment solution including an anionic surfactant, water, and a compound configured to aggregate at least one of the colorant or the resin particles in the ink composition, in which the ratio of the content of the anionic surfactant with respect to the content of the compound configured to aggregate at least one of the colorant or the resin particles is 0.001 to 0.600 in terms of mass. An image forming method in which the ink set is used. |
| US09951238B2 |
Ink-jet ink, ink cartridge, ink-jet recording method
An ink-jet ink of the invention is an ink-jet ink using a pigment and includes polymer particles containing an urethane polymer which includes at least repeating units derived from a polycarbonate diol, repeating units derived from an alicyclic isocyanate, and repeating units derived from an acid group-containing diol, which has an acid value of from 5 to 30 mgKOH/gm, and in which the number of urethane groups is 10 times or more the number of urea groups. The content of the polymer particles is from 0.5 to 3 times the content of the pigment. |
| US09951230B2 |
Fire-resistant, insulating, ecological and corrosion-inhibiting coating
The invention relates to a composition used as a fire-resistant, insulating, ecological and corrosion-inhibiting coating, comprising: 23-50% water, 4-20% diatomite C110 (Celite C110®), 2-8% manganese oxide, 3-10% calcined alumina, 7-24% elastomeric acrylic resin, 1-4% acrylic thickener, 0.3-2% ammonium hydroxide, and 5-14% ceramic fiber. Preferably, the composition also includes optionally the following components in order to provide the fire-resistant, insulating, ecological and corrosion-inhibiting properties: 1-7% titanium bioxide, 1-9% hexylenglycol, 2-18% dibutyl phthalate, 1-9% texanol, 0.7-4% fungicide, or 0.4-3% anti-foaming agent. |