| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09994504B2 |
High temperature isomerization of (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene to (Z)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
Disclosed are processes for a high temperature isomerization reaction converting (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene to (Z)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene. In certain aspects of the invention, such a process includes contacting a feed stream with a heated surface, where the feed stream includes (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene or mixture of (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene with (Z)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene. The resulting product stream includes (Z)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene and (E)-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene, where the ratio of (Z) isomer to (E) isomer in the product stream is higher than the ratio feed stream. The (E) and (Z) isomers in the product stream may be separated from one another. |
| US09994501B2 |
High efficiency, high performance metal-organic framework (MOF) membranes in hollow fibers and tubular modules
A reactor cell for measuring gas and liquid permeation is disclosed. A hollow fiber is supported by and sealed into a first hole and a second hole of the reactor module. The first and second ends of the hollow fiber are sealed with a sealing solution. Methods for making and using the reactor cell are also disclosed. As made and used, the reactor cell further comprises a molecular sieving membrane that is uniform and free of defects grown on an inner bore surface of the hollow fiber. |
| US09994500B2 |
Regeneration loop clean-up
A process is disclosed for removing contaminants from an olefin stream, comprising passing the contaminated olefin stream through a first adsorbent in a thermal swing adsorption process to produce a relatively pure olefin product stream, and a regenerating gas stream containing the contaminants, passing the contaminated regenerating gas stream through a pressure swing adsorption process to yield a relatively pure regenerating gas stream, which can be redirected to the thermal swing adsorption process for regenerating the adsorbent therein. |
| US09994497B2 |
Process for making renewable surfactant intermediates and surfactants from fats and oils and products thereof
The present invention relates generally to methods for producing renewable detergent compounds. More specifically, the invention relates to methods for producing detergent intermediates, including bio-linear alkylbenzene (LAB), bio-alcohols, and long chain bio-paraffins, from natural oils. |
| US09994496B2 |
Method for preparing P-xylene and propylene from methanol and/or dimethyl ether
This invention relates to a method for preparing p-xylene and propylene from methanol and/or dimethyl ether. This method comprises coupling two reaction processes, an aromatization reaction of methanol and/or dimethyl ether and an alkylation reaction of ethylene with methanol and/or dimethyl ether. The method of this invention produces p-xylene and propylene with a high selectivity by returning an ethylene-enriched component in reaction byproducts from preparation of p-xylene from methanol and/or dimethyl ether to the reaction system for performing alkylation reaction with methanol and/or dimethyl ether in the presence of catalysts. |
| US09994492B2 |
Fertiliser coating containing micronutrients
A single-step method for preparing a free-flowing, non-dusting micronutrient-coated particulate solid fertilizer material, the method comprising applying a single fluid onto particulate solid fertiliser material at ambient temperature without chemical reaction or chelation, said single fluid comprising a suspension of one or more micronutrient materials in an oil. |
| US09994486B1 |
Refractory composition resistant to high temperature shock and creep
A refractory composition yields refractory articles having excellent resistance to high-temperature thermal shock and creep. The refractory composition is based primarily on chamotte having controlled particle sizes, and may also include mullite, fused silica, calcined alumina and microsilica, having controlled particle sizes. The refractory composition includes an aqueous colloidal silica binder that provides excellent castability and binding between the ingredients following drying. |
| US09994480B2 |
Method for etching a primary preform
The present invention relates in a first aspect to a method for etching a primary preform or core rod. The present invention moreover relates in a second aspect to the etched primary preform thus obtained and moreover to a final preform and optical fibers obtained therefrom and to a method of preparing optical fibers therefrom. |
| US09994477B2 |
Method for reducing or eliminating residue in a glass container and a glass container made in accordance therewith
A method of preparing a glass medical container is provided including the steps of providing a glass blank and forming a channel through a part of the glass blank, the channel being substantially free of tungsten or derivatives thereof. In a further aspect of the subject invention, a glass medical container is provided including a glass body having a channel extending through a part of the glass body, the channel being substantially free of tungsten or derivatives thereof. With the subject invention, tungsten or derivatives thereof can be generally or altogether completely avoided in glass medical containers. |
| US09994474B2 |
Combined gasification and vitrification system
An optimized gasification/vitrification processing system having a gasification unit which converts organic materials to a hydrogen rich gas and ash in communication with a joule heated vitrification unit which converts the ash formed in the gasification unit into glass, and a plasma which converts elemental carbon and products of incomplete combustion formed in the gasification unit into a hydrogen rich gas. |
| US09994472B2 |
Treatment of the wastewater from isophorone production comprising neutralization, filtration and a downstream chemical oxidation process and subsequent reduction
Treatment of the wastewater from isophorone production comprising neutralization, filtration and a downstream chemical oxidation process and subsequent reduction.The invention relates to treatment of the wastewater from isophorone (IP) production comprising neutralization, filtration and a downstream chemical oxidation process and subsequent reduction. |
| US09994471B2 |
Livestock wastewater treatment system and method
An improved livestock wastewater treatment system for treating wastewater produced by a confined animal feeding operation (CAFO) facility to reclaim water and solids from the wastewater, and to reduce the environmental footprint of the CAFO facility is provided. The treatment system combines both mechanical and chemical water treating and includes separation of liquids from solids, collection of the separated solids at various stages, and treatment of the remaining liquid so that it can be reclaimed. Methods of treating livestock wastewater with the livestock wastewater treatment system is also provided. |
| US09994457B2 |
System and method for ammonia distillation
A system for ammonia distillation may include a condenser to condense ammonia vapor into liquid anhydrous ammonia, a flush tank to receive a flushed portion of the liquid anhydrous ammonia, a collection tank to receive a collected portion of the liquid anhydrous ammonia, and a corrosion inhibitor dispenser to transfer a corrosion inhibitor to the collected portion of the liquid anhydrous ammonia to form corrosion-inhibiting liquid anhydrous ammonia. |
| US09994452B2 |
Integrated process for native CO2 recovery from a sour gas comprising H2S and CO2
The invention relates to a method for treating a hydrocarbon feed gas stream containing CO2 and H2S to recover a purified CO2 gas stream (vii), comprising: a. Separating said feed gas stream into a sweetened gas stream (i), and an acid gas stream (ii); b. Introducing stream (ii) into a Claus unit wherein an oxygen-rich stream is used as a combustive agent in the Claus furnace, thereby recovering a liquid stream of elemental sulfur (iii) and a tail gas stream (iv); c. Introducing the stream (iv) into a Tail Gas Treatment Unit (TGTU) thereby separating said tail gas stream into a CO2 enriched gas stream (v), and a stream enriched in sulfur compounds (vi); d. Compressing stream (v) exiting the TGTU; e. Passing the compressed CO2 enriched gas through a CO2 purification unit thereby recovering a purified CO2 gas stream (vii), and the device for carrying out said method. |
| US09994448B2 |
Iodine extraction processes
Processes for extracting iodine from an aqueous solution, such as brine, are disclosed. Activated coconut carbon particles are mixed with the solution to adsorb iodide through pores in the activated carbon particles. The activated carbon particles are then treated with sulfur dioxide gas and water to form hydrogen iodide. The hydrogen iodide is then reacted with chloride to obtain elemental iodine (I2). |
| US09994443B2 |
Modified nicotinic compounds and related methods
Provided herein are compounds and related composition and methods that may be used to raise an antibody response to nicotinic compounds, in some embodiments. |
| US09994441B2 |
Optical electronic device and method of fabrication
For an optical electronic device and method that forms cavities through an interposer wafer after bonding the interposer wafer to a window wafer, the cavities are etched into the bonded interposer/window wafer pair using the anti-reflective coating of the window wafer as an etch stop. After formation of the cavities, the bonded interposer/window wafer pair is bonded peripherally of die areas to the MEMS device wafer, with die area micromechanical elements sealed within respectively corresponding ones of the cavities. |
| US09994438B2 |
Filling automation system
An automated system for filling oil tankers and other equipment with different materials. The system comprises product/additive pumps, a section for delivering product/additive, and optionally an emergency control. |
| US09994437B2 |
Apparatus, systems and methods for dispensing drinks, food, and other liquids
A self-propelling container having: a top; a bottom; a plurality of vertical walls extending between the bottom and the top; an inner bag for holding contents to be dispensed; a female coupling configured to receive and establish a friction seal with a male coupling of an external device for inserting or extracting the contents to or from the container after the friction seal is established between the female and male couplings; and at least one independent panel positioned inside the container; a compressible element associated with the at least one independent panel wherein during filling of the inner bag the compressible element is compressed, thus causing the at least one independent panel to exercise pressure onto the inner bag, and thus, helping to empty the inner bag. |
| US09994433B2 |
Brake/clutch device for manual hoist
A brake/clutch device for a manual hoist provides an externally-viewable indicator showing the wear status of friction elements within the hoist. The brake/clutch device has a brake block, a brake ratchet, a reversing ratchet, a torsion spring block, a hand wheel and a fastener mounted onto a main shaft of the manual hoist. Friction elements on the brake ratchet provide braking against sudden drops of a load. Ball and spring devices mounted in the hand wheel contact detents and grooves that gradually increase in depth in the torsion spring block depending on the relative positions of the hand wheel and the torsion spring block. The hand wheel has an indicator mark that may align with indicator areas of the torsion spring block to indicate an extent of wear of the friction elements. |
| US09994431B2 |
Positioning area for a route for vertically inserting current collector contacts in the current rails of the route
The invention relates to a positioning zone (EB) for a travel path (1), wherein the travel path (1) has at least one guide rail (2, 3) and the guide rail (2, 3) is used to guide a current collector trolley (11), provided with current collector contacts (12), of a current collector system (10) arranged on a vehicle which can move along the travel path (1), and the travel path (1) has at least one travel path conductor bar (5), wherein the current collector trolley (11) can be moved horizontally and vertically to the travel path (1) in the positioning zone (EB) by a positioning device of the current collector system (10), characterized in that at least one further conductor bar (5′) is arranged in the region of the positioning zone (EB) or at least one travel path conductor bar (5) extends and/or is extended into the positioning zone (EB) beyond at least one guide rail (2, 3) of the travel path (1). |
| US09994429B1 |
Handrail with a built-in RBI
A system for detecting a defect in a steel wire embedded in a handrail of a passenger conveyor includes a non-contact inspection device embedded in the handrail for inspecting a condition of the steel wire and transmitting a signal regarding the condition of the steel wire, a non-contact power supply device arranged in proximity to the handrail for supplying power wirelessly to the non-contact inspection device from the outside of the handrail, and a controller arranged outside of the handrail for receiving the signal regarding the condition wirelessly and determining whether there is a defect in the steel wire. |
| US09994424B2 |
Elevator system
The invention relates to an elevator system comprising a first elevator car, a second elevator car, a rotatable rope wheel mounted on a fixed location, and a roping suspending the first and second elevator car on opposite sides of the rope wheel, the roping comprising at least one rope passing over the rope wheel, and connected on the first side of the rope wheel to the first elevator car and on the second side to the second elevator car. Said rope comprises at least one load bearing member oriented parallel with the longitudinal direction of the rope made of composite material comprising reinforcing fibers embedded in polymer matrix, which reinforcing fibers are carbon fibers oriented parallel with the longitudinal direction of the rope. |
| US09994421B2 |
Arrangements for maintaining favorite floor lists in elevator systems
The present invention discloses a solution for maintaining passenger-specific favorite floor lists in an elevator system, which comprises at least one elevator, call-giving devices for registering calls given by the passengers, a control system that is responsive to the aforementioned calls and memory means, in which is recorded at least one passenger-specific favorite floor list. A passenger is identified in connection with giving a call on the basis of the ID number of an identifier. The favorite floor list is updated on the basis of calls given by the passenger and/or a given updating criterion. |
| US09994420B2 |
Tension dependent brake actuation for cable management and deployment
A cable management system and method of use are provided in which brake actuation which controls a cable payout rate may be dependent on cable tension. A control system may be provided for adjusting cable tension and braking force. |
| US09994417B2 |
Roller for a wire-feed device
This invention relates to a roller for a wire-feed device having a main cylindrical body forming a hub designed to be driven in rotation about its axis of symmetry, a peripheral cylindrical structure forming an idler roller mounted round the perimeter of the main body, and a means for the cylindrical structure to be driven in rotation by the main body. Moreover, the internal diameter of the cylindrical structure is greater than the external diameter of the main body so as to create a space between the cylindrical structure and the main body to enable a displacement of the cylindrical structure in relation to the main body with a misalignment of the axis of rotation of the cylindrical structure in relation to the axis of rotation of the main body. |
| US09994413B2 |
Sheet processing device and image forming apparatus
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sheet processing device including a first teeth portion, a second teeth portion that clamps and binds a sheet bundle with the first teeth portion, a first support portion supporting the first teeth portion, a shaft, and a second support portion supporting the second teeth portion. The second support portion includes first and second arm members integrally supported to be capable of swinging around the shaft between a binding position in which the second teeth portion clamps and binds the sheet bundle with the first teeth portion and a standby position in which the second teeth portion is apart from the first teeth portion. The second arm member is provided over the first arm member so as to cover a part of the first arm member. |
| US09994410B2 |
Sheet loading device, and sheet post-processor and image forming apparatus provided with the same
A sheet loading device is provided with a sheet ejection portion, a sheet loading portion, a first detection mechanism, a driving device, a second detection mechanism, and a control portion. The driving device drives the sheet loading portion to ascend/descend between an upper surface detection position and a reference position made to descend by a prescribed distance from the upper surface detection position. The second detection mechanism detects that the sheet loading portion is at the reference position. In a case where sheets of the same type are ejected continuously from the sheet ejection portion, the control portion controls beforehand the sheet loading portion to ascend from the reference position to the upper surface detection position and sets a loadable number of sheets of the sheet loading portion in accordance with an ascending time of the sheet loading portion. |
| US09994407B2 |
System and method for processing a flexible substrate
A processing system and a method for processing a flexible substrate (e.g., a web) use a tensioner with a vacuum plate that can be moved along a transport direction of the flexible substrate with an indexer that intermittently moves the flexible substrate for processing. The tensioner and the indexer are controlled so that a relative speed between the indexer and the vacuum plate of the tensioner is maintained above a predefined threshold under all working conditions, even when the flexible substrate is stopped. |
| US09994404B2 |
Roller support mechanism, sheet conveying device including roller support mechanism, image forming apparatus
A roller support mechanism includes a pair of support plates, concave groove portions, and sliding bearing portions. The support plates are formed from an elastic material and disposed to face each other. The concave groove portions are formed in the support plates and each include an opening portion, two arc rims, and a straight line rim. The arc rims extend in a groove depth direction of the concave groove portion from opposite ends of the opening portion. The straight line rim extends straightly and connects extention ends of the arc rims. The sliding bearing portions have bearing holes in which a rotation shaft of a roller member is inserted. In a state where the rotation shaft is inserted in the bearing holes, the sliding bearing portions are pressed into the concave groove portions so as to be in close contact with their inner circumferential surfaces and unrotatably attached to them. |
| US09994402B2 |
Configurations of inlet and outlets of air filled auxiliary tank of air seeders
A system for replenishing the supply of a particulate agricultural product in the tank of an air cart. A mixture of air and product comes out of a venturi delivery system and enters in a multiplicity of inlet hoses. Then the product enters into inlet tubes of various lengths and release angles from which product particles are gently spread strategically forming a pile that is more or less horizontal to ensure even feeding of meters during dispensing operations. Then the air exits through one or more fine screens to avoid product escaping as well and is conveyed through the exhaust hoses until reaching an air diffuser. The air diffuser has a series of varying size holes or louvers at the bottom so the air can come out at a uniform low velocity which minimizes any discomfort to nearby operators. |
| US09994401B2 |
Transfer arrangement
A transfer arrangement for transfer of packaging containers from a first conveyor arrangement to a second conveyor arrangement, wherein the transfer arrangement comprises at least one gripper arranged to engage the packaging containers frictionally. |
| US09994400B2 |
Conveyors for sorting products
Systems and methods for sorting products using conveyors having multiple inputs and multiple outputs include first product conveyors vertically stacked relative to one another, second product conveyors vertically stacked relative to one another, and transfer conveyors connecting the first and second product conveyors. The transfer conveyors permit products travelling on the first product conveyors to be transferred from the first product conveyors onto the second product conveyors by way of the products being first transferred from the first product conveyors onto the transfer conveyors and then from the transfer conveyors onto the second product conveyors. |
| US09994398B1 |
Powered roller systems and methods
A powered roller system is operable in first and second configurations. In the first configuration, rotation of a motor drive shaft is transferred to a first drum member by an adapter collar that engages the drive shaft and the first roller drum assembly. In the first configuration, a first drum bearing assembly supports the first drum member on a motor support shaft, and a distal support assembly supports the first drum shaft. In the second configuration rotation of the drive shaft is transferred to a second drum member by engaging an adapter collar with the drive shaft and an adapter spacer and engaging the adapter spacer with a second drum assembly. In the second configuration, a second drum bearing assembly supports the second drum member on the support shaft, and the distal support assembly supports a second drum shaft. |
| US09994394B2 |
Side arm transfer device
A side arm transfer device that is more easily assembled includes a right-side arm, a central arm, a left-side arm, a lifting table, laser sensors, a turning mechanism, and a transfer controller. The laser sensors are provided on the lifting table and detect presence or absence of an object on an irradiation line of laser light. The turning mechanism horizontally turns the laser sensors. The transfer controller horizontally turns the laser sensors and detects the presence or absence of an object in each of a plurality of detected portions on a load storage shelf, to determine the presence or absence of an object in each of mounting locations and the presence or absence of an object in a location, on the side of each of the mounting locations, to which each of the right-side arm, the central arm, and the left-side arm is to be extended. |
| US09994390B2 |
Container including sliding roof
The present invention relates to a container having a collapsible frame coupled to one side of a sliding roof that defines an upper side of the container. According to one aspect of the present invention, the container may include a collapsible frame that is pivotably coupled to one side of the container, and the sliding roof which defines the upper side of the container. The sliding roof may be configured to slide like a vertical blind along the upper side of the container in a direction from the side opposite to the one side toward the one side of the container, and to open the upper side of the container. The sliding roof may be configured to move past a first side of the container through the collapsible frame, and the collapsible frame may be configured to support the sliding roof when the sliding roof moves past the first side of the container. |
| US09994389B2 |
Filter for capsules for making espresso coffee and capsule for making espresso coffee
A filter for capsules for making espresso coffee by passing pressurised hot water through ground coffee powder, the filter (2) being rigid or semi-rigid, bowl-shaped and comprising a first base wall (3), a first lateral wall (4), a first upper edge (5) and a plurality of passages passing through it and which comprise an inlet section (10) facing towards an inner part (6) of the bowl and an outlet section (11) facing towards an outer part (7) of the bowl, at least the inlet sections (10) of the passages being made in parts of the filter (2) which are radially separated from the central axis by a distance equal to at least two thirds of the minimum radial distance of the first lateral wall (4) from the central axis; and a capsule comprising said filter (2) near to a second base wall (16) of it. |
| US09994386B2 |
PTP sheet-guide device and tablet dispenser
Provided are a PTP sheet-guide device which can prevent a tablet from being broken at conveying a PTP sheet according to the shape of the PTP sheet and/or tablet and can stably convey the PTP sheet, and a tablet dispenser. A tablet dispenser of the present invention has a driving roller which is rotatably mounted on a driving shaft, a driven roller which nips a sheet portion of a PTP sheet in cooperation with the driving roller and is rotated following the driving roller to convey the PTP sheet, a pressing roller which is coaxially rotated with either of the driving roller and the driven roller and is arranged so as to be capable of dispensing a tablet by pressing a tablet holding portion at conveying the PTP sheet, and a PTP sheet-guide device having a guide which arranges the PTP sheet thereon and guides the conveying of the PTP sheet. The PTP sheet-guide device has a first interval adjustment mechanism which changes a first interval between the end of the guide and the outer face of the pressing roller. |
| US09994382B2 |
Oxygen-absorbing medical multilayer container and method for storing biological medicine
Provided is an oxygen-absorbing medical multilayer container including at least three layers including a first resin layer containing a thermoplastic resin (b1), an oxygen-absorbing layer containing an oxygen-absorbing composition, and a second resin layer containing a thermoplastic resin (b2), in this order, where the oxygen-absorbing composition contains at least one compound having a tetralin ring represented by Formula (1), a transition metal catalyst, and a thermoplastic resin (a). |
| US09994377B2 |
Gift card packaging and associated methods
Exemplary embodiments of a gift card box and associated methods are provided, generally including a base section including a first insert configured and dimensioned to receive a gift card. The exemplary gift card box generally includes a lid section including a second insert configured and dimensioned to cooperatively mate with the first insert. The first insert and the second insert substantially fix the gift card inside the gift card box when cooperatively mated. An exemplary method of assembling a gift card box is provided, generally including providing a base section, providing a lid section, and substantially fixing the gift card inside the gift card box by cooperatively mating the first insert and the second insert. The base section generally includes a window configured and dimensioned to permit visualization of indicia on the gift card. |
| US09994375B2 |
Modular packing system
A modular packing system includes a pallet exhibiting a continuous and unperforated support surface affording a plurality of seating features distributed thereon, a plurality of containers of base measurements as submultiples of the pallet dimensions and constant height so as to form even layers of uniform height, and an uppermost cover element for positioning on top of a final layer of containers and equipped with a first pair of belts engageable to corresponding belt portions which, in turn, engage with a second pair of belts associated to the pallet. Each container exhibits a lower base surface affording raised features configured to engage in seating features in the pallet support surface. Each container further exhibits a cover element exhibiting a plurality of seating features, analogous in conformation and positioning to the seating features in the pallet support surface, so as to form another support and engagement surface for a subsequent layer. |
| US09994370B2 |
Liquid container closure with latching assembly
Closures having an integrated push button latching assembly including an end wall, a skirt wall depending from the end wall, an outlet opening associated with the end wall, a protrusion associated with the end wall and a push button latching assembly are disclosed. The push button latching assembly is pivotally coupled to the closure and is movable between a first position in which the outlet opening is covered by the assembly and a second position in which the outlet opening is exposed. The push button latching assembly includes a retaining mechanism, a closing member coupled to the retaining mechanism, a push button coupled to the retaining mechanism, and a tongue coupled to the retaining mechanism. The tongue is configured to engage the protrusion when the push button latching assembly occupies the first position and disengage the protrusion such that the push button latching assembly is movable to the second position. |
| US09994365B2 |
Drawstring trash bag with thick hem region
The present invention is directed to a thermoplastic drawstring trash bag wherein the thermoplastic drawstring trash bag has an enhanced thickness region in one or more panels of the drawstring trash bag. The enhanced thickness region has an average thickness that is greater than the thickness of the remaining portions of the panels forming the drawstring trash bag. The enhanced thickness region is generally in the area of the hems and traverses the hem seals. |
| US09994361B2 |
Apparatus for applying a handle to a container and method thereof
A method for applying a handle to a container, including placing the handle on the neck of the container, supporting the container to prevent the container from collapsing, and moving the handle toward an end of the neck that contacts a body of the container. The neck includes a supporting rib to fix the handle to the container. |
| US09994358B2 |
Corrugated pallet
A corrugated pallet produced from two flat blanks is provided. The pallet may include a pallet top, a pallet bottom, and a plurality of corner straps locking the pallet top to the pallet bottom. Each of the pallet top and the pallet bottom may include folded portions, the folded portions of the pallet top interlocking with the folded portions of the pallet bottom when the pallet top and the pallet bottom are assembled to each other in nested relation. The pallet top may define a top surface of the pallet. The pallet bottom may define a bottom surface of the pallet. The corner straps may lock into one or both of the pallet top and the pallet bottom from the top or bottom surfaces of the pallet. |
| US09994356B2 |
Blanks and methods for forming a shelf-ready display container
A blank of sheet material is provided for forming a container convertible from a shipping configuration to a display configuration. The blank includes a glue panel, a front panel, a top panel, a rear panel, and a bottom panel coupled together in series by a plurality of generally parallel fold lines. The glue panel includes an opening mechanism and is configured to couple in face-to-face relationship to the bottom panel when the container is formed. The blank also includes a pair of top side panels extending from opposing side edges of the top panel, and a pair of bottom side panels extending from opposing side edges of the bottom panel. An edge perforation line extends along an edge between the top panel and the rear panel, and a face of each of the top panel, the bottom panel, and the pairs of side panels is devoid of perforation lines extending therethrough. |
| US09994351B2 |
Container with folded sidewall
A blow-molded container including a finish and a base portion. The finish defines an opening at a first end of the container that provides access to an internal volume defined by the container. The base portion is at a second end of the container opposite to the first end. The base portion includes a fold proximate to a sidewall of the container. |
| US09994342B2 |
Vacuum packaging method and vacuum packaging apparatus
The invention provides a vacuum packaging method and a vacuum packaging apparatus that can sufficiently degasify the inside of a packaging bag without any trouble and in which bubbles are less likely to remain inside the packaging bag after vacuum packaging, even if a liquid is included in a packaged object. |
| US09994333B2 |
Rotorcraft winch lighting device and method of operating a rotorcraft winch lighting device
A rotorcraft winch lighting device, which is attachable to a rotorcraft winch, mounted to a rotorcraft such as a helicopter, the rotorcraft winch including a stationary portion and a mobile portion which is movable with respect to the stationary portion, includes: a stationary unit including a stationary coil and a mobile unit. The mobile unit is movable with respect to the stationary unit and includes at least one light source, at least one electrical storage device, and at least one mobile coil, which is electrically connected to the electrical storage device and/or the at least one light source. The stationary coil and the mobile coil are configured for transferring electrical energy from the stationary unit to the mobile unit when the at least one mobile coil is positioned in an energy transfer position in the vicinity of the at least one stationary coil. |
| US09994331B2 |
Aircraft fuel tank inerting arrangement, method of inerting one or more aircraft fuel tanks, aircraft and software product
A method is provided of inerting one or more fuel tanks of an aircraft. The method comprises: providing a temperature value indicative of a temperature at the aircraft's destination; comparing said temperature value with a predetermined value; and on the basis of said comparison, controlling the provision of inerting gas to the one or more aircraft fuel tanks. An aircraft fuel tank inerting arrangement, a software product and an aircraft are also provided. |
| US09994328B2 |
Parachute packing tool
A tool to aid with pulling a closing loop cord through grommets in closing flaps on a parachute container. The cord is looped in a “U” shaped arrangement with two pulling “legs” of equal length being wrapped around a handle to provide a better grip. Only one leg of the cord can be permanently attached to the handle as the other leg must be removable for fishing through the grommets. The handle must have a diameter to permit passage through the eye of the grommet with the two legs of the cord trailing behind. With existing handles, the removable end of the cord slides off the end of the handle when passing through the grommet. An “O” ring placed on one or both ends of a radial groove in the handle holds the cord captive when passing the handle through the grommets to prevent the cord from sliding off. |
| US09994325B2 |
Polyether urethane deicer boots
A deicer includes an aircraft structure and an outer layer with a sheet having a brittle point lower than −40° C. (−40° F.). The sheet includes a polyether urethane elastomer. A deicer includes an aircraft structure and an outer elastomer layer. The outer elastomer layer includes a non-woven fabric having polyether urethane fibers and one of (1) a carbon allotrope material aligned with at least one of the polyether urethane fibers and (2) a polyester urethane composition located on a portion of the non-woven fabric. A method of forming a layer of a deicer boot includes forming a polyether urethane elastomer sheet having a brittle point lower than −40° C. (−40° F.) and incorporating the polyether urethane elastomer sheet onto an aircraft structure. |
| US09994324B2 |
Deicer boots having different elastomer fibers
A deicer boot includes a plurality of first elastomer fibers and a first carbon allotrope material selected from the group consisting of carbon nanotubes, graphene, graphite and carbon black. The first carbon allotrope material is aligned with one of the first elastomer fibers. The deicer boot also includes a plurality of second elastomer fibers and a second carbon allotrope material selected from the group consisting of carbon nanotubes, graphene, graphite and carbon black. The second carbon allotrope material is aligned with one of the second elastomer fibers. The second elastomer fibers are different from the first elastomer fibers. |
| US09994321B2 |
Reclining passenger seat
Described is a passenger seat that includes a seat back with a lower portion disposed adjacent to the seat bottom, and recline mechanism configured to move the passenger seat between an upright position and a reclined position. The recline mechanism may move the passenger seat in two directions. The recline mechanism may include a plurality of corresponding members configured to interface with a plurality of elongate motion members. |
| US09994319B2 |
Integrated aircraft galley and appliance operating system
An aircraft galley power and control system is disclosed having a plurality of electrical appliances within a monument, the galley control system including a control panel removed from the electrical appliances that include controls for operating each of the electrical appliances, The galley also includes a galley controller interface for receiving commands from a display screen on the control panel and communicating the commands to the electrical appliances. |
| US09994313B2 |
High speed multi-rotor vertical takeoff and landing aircraft
This disclosure is generally directed to a High Speed vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft that includes fixed wing flight capabilities. The High Speed VTOL aircraft may include at least two thrust producing rotors located equidistant from a longitudinal axis of the aircraft on a main wing, and at least two thrust producing rotors located equidistant from a longitudinal axis of the aircraft on a vertical wing. The rotors may be driven by electric motors. However, other power sources may be used such as combustion or hybrid engines. By adjusting the speed and/or the pitch of the rotors, the aircraft can transition from a vertical flight configuration to a horizontal flight configuration and back. |
| US09994308B2 |
Helicopter skid landing gear
A cross tube for a helicopter skid landing gear, including a monolithic metallic tube having a central portion extending transversely between two end portions with longitudinal central axes of the central portion and of the end portions being located in a plane, where the central portion has inner and outer heights, the end portions each have inner and outer heights, and the inner and outer heights of one of the central portion and the end portion are respectively greater than the inner and outer heights of the other of the central portion and the end portion. A skid tube with two portions with cross-sections having one or both of different orientations with respect to one another and different dimensions with respect to one another, and a method of forming a structural tube for a helicopter skid landing gear are also provided. |
| US09994304B2 |
Hydraulic actuator
A hydraulic actuator is adapted to drive a spoiler of a wing having a flap. When the hydraulic actuator drives the spoiler in an overlapping region where a driving range of the flap and a driving range of the spoiler overlap, an output suppressing structure suppress a drive output of the hydraulic actuator in the overlapping region to be less than that in a non-overlapping region other than the overlapping region. |
| US09994303B2 |
Control system and method for an aircraft
A control system and method for an aircraft configured to operate according to a first mode of operation corresponding to an automatic piloting of the aircraft and a second mode of operation corresponding to a manual piloting of the aircraft, the system including a selection member. The system is configured to operate according to the first mode of operation when the selection member is not actuated continuously and to operate according to the second mode of operation when the selection member is actuated continuously. |
| US09994301B2 |
Virtual aerodynamic surface systems
A method of generating a pressure wave proximate an airflow surface and altering airflow to promote a localized lowering of skin friction over the airflow surface is described herein. A series of pressure waves may be configured to create a virtual riblet to control turbulent vortices in a boundary layer adjacent to the airflow surface creating a virtual riblet. The pressure waves may be configured to prevent disruption of the flow of air relative to at least one of a step or a gap associated with the airflow surface. The pressure wave generating system may be comprised of at least one of a thermoacoustic material, a piezoelectric material and a semiconductor material, and a microelectric circuit. |
| US09994299B2 |
Tool and method of installing a bulkhead within a structure
A tool for use in installing a bulkhead within a structure is provided. The tool includes a base member configured to couple to the structure, and a positioning member configured to couple to the bulkhead. The base member includes a primary fastener hole sized to receive at least a portion of a fastener therethrough, and sized such that the fastener is configured to bias against the base member to retract the positioning member towards the base member when the fastener is engaged with the positioning member. |
| US09994296B1 |
Device and method for providing user input control on a marine vessel
A user input device for controlling steering and/or propulsion of a marine vessel includes a movable member movable by a vessel operator to control the steering and/or propulsion of the marine vessel, a variable resistance device controllable to vary resistance to movement of the movable member, and a controller that controls the variable resistance device. The controller is configured to detect an unstable condition indicator and, upon detecting the unstable condition indicator, control the variable resistance device to increase resistance to movement of the movable member. |
| US09994288B2 |
Maritime glazing system and sealing methods
Systems and methods including various glazing devices are provided for attaching a window to a frame of a boating vessel to form a weatherproof seal therebetween. |
| US09994287B1 |
Rotating mast system for sailboat
A rotatable mast system for a sailing craft wherein a lower section of the mast is mounted for rotation in upper and lower bearings fixed to the body of the sailing craft spaced along the length of the lower mast section. The upper section of the mast is removable from the lower section for purposes of servicing, repairing or replacing the upper section of the mast. The lower section of the mast remains in the sailing craft for future use and does not have to be removed while the upper mast section is removed for servicing, repair or replacement, etc. However if desired, the lower mast section may be removed by itself or with the upper section. The lower section of the mast may be made from aluminum and it also includes attachments for connecting a boom and the rigging to the lower section of the mast. |
| US09994286B2 |
Straddle type vehicle
A compact shift controller in a straddle type vehicle wherein the layout can be determined more freely, and a rider can mount and dismount the vehicle more easily. In a straddle type vehicle including a body frame; a footrest on which a rider places his/her foot; a shift lever arranged in front of the footrest, and rotated by the rider's operation by foot to shift gears of the vehicle; a shift detection mechanism for detecting operation of the shift lever and an engine supported to the body frame, the footrest is supported to a center frame constituting a part of the body frame below a seat of the rider, and the shift detection mechanism is connected to the shift lever, provided in front of the footrest and the center frame, and is supported to a lower frame constituting a part of the body frame. |
| US09994285B2 |
Multiple bicycle sprocket assembly
A multiple bicycle sprocket assembly is basically provided with a first sprocket supporting member and a second sprocket supporting member. A first sprocket is coupled to one of a first bicycle inbound facing side and a first bicycle outbound facing side of the first sprocket supporting member, and is a separate member therefrom. A second sprocket is coupled to one of a second bicycle inbound facing side and a second bicycle outbound facing side of the second sprocket supporting member, and is a separate member therefrom. At least one fastening member connects the first sprocket supporting member and the second sprocket supporting member, and is a separate member therefrom. At least one hub engaged sprocket is free from connection with the at least one fastening member, and is a separate member from the first and second sprocket supporting members. |
| US09994283B1 |
Human-powered vehicle
A human-powered vehicle may include a frame and a drive member pivotally coupled to the frame. Pivotal reciprocal motion of the drive member in either direction may generate rotational motion to the wheels of the human-powered vehicle. The seat of the human-powered vehicle may be positioned such that an axis about which the drive member pivots is located below, or closer to the ground surface, than the seat. |
| US09994282B2 |
Bicycle hydraulic operating system
A bicycle hydraulic operating system is basically provided with first and second actuating devices and a hydraulic operated device. The first actuating device includes a first operating member, a first master cylinder and a first master piston. The first master piston moves in the first master cylinder in response to operation of the first operating member. The second actuating device includes a second operating member, a second master cylinder and a second master piston. The second master piston moves in the second master cylinder in response to operation of the second operating member. The hydraulic operated device includes a slave cylinder and a slave piston that is movably arranged in the slave cylinder. The slave cylinder has a slave fluid port that is connected to first and second fluid ports of the first and second master cylinders. Operation of either of the first and second operating members moves the slave piston. |
| US09994281B2 |
Handle position-adjustment structure of straddle type vehicle
A handle position-adjustment structure of a straddle type vehicle for improving maintainability improving the appearance of the vehicle. A handle position-adjustment structure of a straddle type vehicle includes a top bridge having fork insertion holes into which a right and left pair of front forks are inserted, and connecting the right and left pair of front forks with each other; a right and left pair of handle holders arranged below the fork insertion holes, and having cylinder portions inserted into the front forks in such a manner so as to be rotatable around axes of the front forks; and an adjustment hole allowing adjustment of the position of the handle holder. The position of the handle holder is adjustable by a position adjustment bolt inserted into the adjustment hole and the top bridge. The position adjustment bolt is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the front fork. |
| US09994276B2 |
Narrow ultra efficient three wheeled vehicle with automotive class feel
An electric three wheeled vehicle includes a vehicle chassis supporting a vehicle operator seat or saddle. The vehicle chassis defines a storage region beneath the vehicle operator seat or saddle. One or more energy storage devices for powering one or more electric motors of the vehicle are located within the storage region and are supported by the chassis. The storage region and/or the energy storage device(s) each form an elongate three-dimensional volume having a long axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. A vehicle operator, when seated upon the seat or saddle, sits astride the one or more energy storage devices. A handlebar steering assembly is operatively coupled to a pair of front wheels to provide steering. The vehicle includes a single rear wheel. |
| US09994275B1 |
Universal piping clamp
A clamp assembly mountable on a short span of structural tubing which can have any one of a broad spectrum of transverse cross-sectional shapes, sizes and vertical orientations, as found in bicycle frames and the like. Augmenting the assembly's inner and outer clamp members, so that one can use them to maintain a tight grip on the short span, is an assortment of inserts. Each insert, when deployed between the outer member's elongated flat face and the inner clamp member's midsection where it bounds a long, relatively narrow concavity, is designed to keep the clamp members from slipping sideways with respect to the compression force applied through them to the short span. Included is a two-headed insert, deployed one head at a time, as dictated by how much the short span fills said concavity and whether it extends, beyond it, perpendicularly to the elongated flat face. |
| US09994271B2 |
Apparatus for adjusting relative orientations of components, and methods of use and manufacture thereof
Some embodiments are directed to an adjuster for adjusting a position of a vehicle door relative to other vehicle components. The adjuster can include a pin that is configured to be held by a vehicle door latch so as to form a rigid connection between the pin and the vehicle door. The pin can also be configured to be released from the vehicle door latch upon actuation of a vehicle release mechanism. A frame can be supported by a surface that is static relative to the vehicle. An actuator can connect the frame to the pin. The actuator can be configured to enable the vehicle door to be manually raised or lowered by a predetermined distance that facilitates the vehicle door adopting a position that provides enhanced communication between the vehicle door latch and a vehicle striker. |
| US09994269B1 |
Rotatable extension for robot foot
Example embodiments relate to a foot for a walking robot. An example foot includes a central portion including a first surface and at least one foot extension including at least one respective first surface parallel to the first surface of the central portion. The foot additionally includes at least one hinge component that is configured to rotate the at least one foot extension away from the central portion when at least one respective second surface of the at least one foot extension is contacted. The foot also includes at least one spring component configured to cause the at least one hinge component to rotate the at least one foot extension toward the central portion until the at least one respective first surface is parallel to the first surface of the central portion when the at least one respective second surface is no longer contacted. |
| US09994264B2 |
Vehicle cab assembly
A vehicle cab assembly includes an internal frame including multiple rigid members that are secured rigidly one to another. The vehicle cab assembly also includes multiple cladding panels that obscure the internal frame and enclose it uninterruptedly in at least one plane. The cladding panels are supported on an exterior of the internal frame and define mutually abutting panel edges along which the cladding panels are sealed one to another to define weather-proof joints of the vehicle cab assembly. |
| US09994256B2 |
Stiffening element for a motor vehicle frame
A stiffening element for a subframe of a motor vehicle, including a substantially horizontal section in order to confer rigidity to the subframe in the horizontal plane, and a substantially vertical section in order to confer rigidity to the subframe in the vertical plane, wherein the stiffening element is designed in such a manner that the stiffening element is arrangeable on the subframe above a steering mechanism. |
| US09994255B2 |
Vehicle guidance apparatus and vehicle guidance method
A vehicle guidance apparatus includes a power supplying parameter acquisition device, a power receiving parameter storage device, a charge efficiency calculator, and a display processing device. The power supplying parameter acquisition device is configured to acquire in a electric vehicle a power supplying parameter which corresponds to a specification of a power supplier. The power receiving parameter storage device is configured to store a power receiving parameter corresponding to a specification of a power receiver. The charge efficiency calculator is configured to calculate a charge efficiency according to a relative position between the power supplier and the power receiver based on the power supplying parameter and the power receiving parameter. The display processing device is configured to display on a display a range of the charge efficiency with respect to a center of the power receiver to guide the electric vehicle. |
| US09994251B2 |
Method for controlling output of power steering system
A method for controlling an output of a power steering system may include sensing at least one of a driving speed of a vehicle, a steering angle, a steering angular velocity, and a steering torque; obtaining a target steering torque by using at least one of the driving speed, the steering angle, the steering angular velocity, and the steering torque; and determining a motor assist output of the power steering system by using the target steering torque. |
| US09994248B2 |
Steering column device
The release capsule includes a sleeve having a through-hole for inserting therein a fastening member configured to fix the vehicle body mounting bracket to the vehicle body and to be arranged in the notch groove, a sliding plate having a hole formed thereon, in which the sleeve is to be inserted, and configured to sandwich the vehicle body mounting bracket, and an fixing part and a lock member each provided at an end portion and the other end portion of the sleeve so as to sandwich the sliding plate and the vehicle body mounting bracket. The sleeve includes a male screw formed on a cylindrical part thereof. The male screw of the sleeve is configured to be screwed with a female screw formed at a round hole of the lock member. The sliding plate and the vehicle body mounting bracket are sandwiched by the fixing part and the lock member. |
| US09994247B2 |
Steering column assembly
A steering column assembly includes an energy absorption assembly. The energy absorption assembly includes an energy absorption strap, a bracket, a pin, and a cam member. The energy absorption strap includes a plurality of engagement members. The bracket is disposed on at least one of a lower jacket assembly and an upper jacket assembly. The bracket has a first wall disposed opposite a second wall. The pin extends through the first wall and the second wall to couple the cam member to the bracket. The cam member has a plurality of complementary engagement members configured to engage the plurality of engagement members. |
| US09994246B2 |
Cart transporting apparatus
A cart transporting apparatus including a hitch assembly and a cart coupling assembly. The hitch assembly may include an elongated body, at least one catch member, and a hitch stop. The hitch stop may be, for example, a rotating hitch stop or a sliding hitch stop. The rotating hitch stop may include at least three flanges configured to abut a cart and may further include a detent mechanism. The cart coupling assembly may include at least a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may be pivotally coupled to the second portion. The first portion may include first and second engagement members. The second portion may include third and fourth engagement members. |
| US09994243B1 |
Clear enclosure top dome for end of train device
An end of train device suitable of use on a railroad vehicle includes an enclosure, and a plurality of electronic components including one or more displays positioned inside the enclosure, the one or more displays displaying information provided by the end of train device, wherein the enclosure comprises a top portion and a bottom portion, and wherein the top portion comprises a transparent dome, the information displayed by the one or more displays being visible from an outside of the enclosure through the transparent dome of the top portion. |
| US09994242B2 |
V-aware end of train device
The present disclosure teaches inter-vehicle communications for avoiding rear collision of rail vehicles on a railroad. For example, a collision avoidance system may comprise an end-of-train device and a V-aware unit located on different vehicles. The two devices may be configured to wirelessly communicate with each other, and then detect each other's presence by estimating a distance between them. Warnings may be issued to respective operators against a collision hazard when the distance drops to or below a pre-determined threshold. |
| US09994241B2 |
Rail vehicle
A rail vehicle includes a vehicle unit having operating device subsystems and a guide system including a first guide system level in which operating device subsystems are networked with one another by using a digital data bus structure, and at least one second guide system level having at least one line set associated with the analog handling of processes in the operating device subsystems. In order to provide a generic rail vehicle in which a high level of safety can be achieved with little outlay on wiring, the vehicle unit includes a guide system interface device having a first interface unit associated with the data bus structure, at least one second interface unit associated with the line set, and a control unit which, in at least one operating mode, is provided for handling the processes through the second interface unit. |
| US09994239B2 |
Vehicle with force-controlled shock absorber (2-pipe shock absorber)
The invention relates to a shock absorber with a housing, an inner pipe arranged in the housing, a piston rod, a piston which is arranged at that end of the piston rod, and which piston divides the interior of the inner pipe into a lower chamber and an upper chamber, a first valve arrangement which is arranged on the piston, and a third valve arrangement which is arranged at the lower end of the inner pipe and by means of which the working medium which is held in the interior of the housing, serving as a tank, can flow out of the interior of the housing, only into the lower chamber when the piston moves in the inner pipe. The shock absorber is distinguished by the fact that a hydraulic pump drive is arranged between a first connection element of the lower chamber of the inner pipe and a second connection element at the upper chamber of the inner pipe. |
| US09994238B2 |
Air conditioning device for a compartment, in particular for a railroad vehicle
An air conditioning device is provided which has a primary heat pump circuit having at least one primary heat exchanger with the air from the compartment, a primary compressor, a second primary heat exchanger with the outside air, and a primary expander device, and a heat storage reservoir, connected to the primary circuit, in parallel with said first primary heat exchanger with the air from the compartment. The air conditioning device also has a secondary heat pump circuit, including a first secondary heat exchanger with the air from the compartment, a secondary compressor, a second secondary heat exchanger with the air from the outside, and a secondary expander device. The heat storage reservoir is connected to the secondary circuit, in parallel with the first secondary heat exchanger with the air from the compartment. |
| US09994237B2 |
Electrical vehicle and associated transport facility
The invention relates to an electrical vehicle (100), including an electric engine (102) and on-board energy storage means (104, 106) that are electrically connected to the engine in order to supply same with electrical energy, in which the energy storage means include a first energy storage module (104) including at least one supercapacitor, and a second energy storage module (106) including at least one battery, the first and the second energy storage modules (104,106) being arranged on parallel electrical branches, the vehicle including interconnection means (108), arranged between the energy storage means (104, 106) and the engine (102), capable of electrically connecting the two electrical arms to the engine (102) and configured such that a single one of the two electrical arms is connected to the engine (102) at a time. The invention also relates to a facility comprising the vehicle (100) and at least one station (200) for recharging the vehicle. |
| US09994236B2 |
Rail transport bogie and a rail transportation system
Rail transport bogie (1) configured to operate on a track (2) having track surfaces (3,4) on opposite sides thereof and an slot (5) extending along substantially the center of the track (2), the bogie (1) comprising a load-bearing wheel (9) to run on a first (3) of the two track surfaces, a support shaft (11) extending from the load-bearing wheel (9) operatively through the slot (5) in the track (2) and terminating in load support means (8), a first pinch wheel (12) rotatably secured in a forward position (20) in respect of the support shaft (11) and a second pinch wheel (13) rotatably secured in rearward position (21) in respect of the support shaft (11), with both the first (12) and second (13) pinch wheels located between the load-bearing wheel (9) and load support means (8) to run on the second (4) of the two track surfaces, the load-bearing wheel (9) and pinch wheels (12,13) clamping between them the bogie (1) to the opposing track surfaces (3,4), and at least one of the load-bearing wheel (9) and either or both of the pinch wheels (12,13) connected to a motor (10) operatively to be driven thereby to comprise a driven wheel for the bogie (1). Also disclosed are a rail transportation system and a track for a rail transportation system using such a bogie (1). |
| US09994235B2 |
Human-machine interface device and method for sensory augmentation in a vehicle environment
A device and method for a human machine interface (HMI) device to provide sensory augmentation in a vehicle environment are disclosed. The device and method include receiving, via a vehicle network, location data relating to a vehicle obstacle identified by a vehicle sensor. With the location data, the device and method include identifying a haptic device of a plurality of haptic devices correlating to the location data and to a directional reference, wherein the plurality of haptic devices distributed in a defined-relation along a wearable band device and operable to convey directional information. With the haptic device being identified, the device and method include generating a haptic signal, by the haptic device, to define a vector relating to the vehicle obstacle with respect to the directional reference. |
| US09994232B2 |
Dynamic assignment of driver identifiers and related adjustment of vehicle settings based on detection of driver identifiers
An automated vehicle configuration system for a host vehicle is presented here. The system includes a driver identifier module onboard the host vehicle, and a subsystem onboard the vehicle. The driver identifier module has a database and a processor device to execute processor-executable instructions. The database has database objects, each having a driver identifier, at least one key fob code, and at least one mobile device identifier. The processor device executes the instructions to dynamically populate and update the database objects such that key fob codes are dynamically assigned and reassigned to driver identifiers. The subsystem has user-specific configurable settings associated with the driver identifier objects. Selection of an active driver identifier results in the loading of corresponding settings for the subsystem. |
| US09994230B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer program
An information processing apparatus is mounted on a vehicle. The information processing apparatus includes: a first acquiring unit that acquires, from each of one or more traffic lights, traffic light information including identifying information for identifying a corresponding traffic light, position information of the corresponding traffic light, and start time and end time of lighting in a color of a traffic signal indicating stop of the vehicle; a calculation unit that calculates a signal waiting time that indicates a time period for the vehicle to stop at a traffic light by using one or more pieces of the traffic light information; and an electric power control unit that controls an electric power state during stop of the vehicle in a multistage manner in accordance with the signal waiting time. |
| US09994229B2 |
Facial recognition database created from social networking sites
Methods and systems for a complete vehicle ecosystem are provided. Specifically, systems that when taken alone, or together, provide an individual or group of individuals with an intuitive and comfortable vehicular environment. The present disclosure includes a system to create, modify, and maintain profiles associated with users. The user profiles are generated based on selectively collecting data associated with the users. Although each user profile may include settings, preferences, habits, and content associated with an individual user and/or vehicle, some user profiles may represent multiple users. These user profiles can change a configuration of a vehicle to match settings for a user, such as a driver and/or passenger. The configurations may also include the recognition of a unique set of gestures for a user. Further, the user profiles can be transferred from vehicle-to-vehicle and/or user-to-user. |
| US09994228B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling a vehicle or device in response to a measured human response to a provocative environment
A sensor system and method for determining if an environment is provocative, measuring a human response to this environment, and controlling a vehicle or device is disclosed. The system and method comprise a human head-worn unit with an orientation sensing element, a head-attachable display comprising a first image not responsive to pitch and roll and a display element responsive to the orientation sensing element. The system and method also comprises at least one human response sensor such as a galvanic skin response sensor, a blood pressure sensor, or an electroencephalograph. The system and method further comprise an algorithm that computes a signal that is a measure of the condition of the human based on input from the orientation sensing element and the human response sensor or sensors. The system and method also comprise an electronic interface configured for transmitting the human physical condition signal. |
| US09994227B2 |
Driving assistance device and driving assistance method
An ECU as a driving assistance device has a traffic sign detection section, a lane entry detection section and a judgment section. The traffic sign detection section detects traffic signs including a speed limit symbol based on front-image data captured by an in-vehicle camera. The lane entry detection section detects that the own vehicle has entered a ramp lane to leave a highway. The judgment section detects an extent of a current driving lane as the ramp lane when following conditions (c1) and (c2) are satisfied after the lane entry detection section detects the entry of the own vehicle into the ramp lane: (c1) not less than two traffic signs are arranged along the current driving lane in forward direction of the vehicle; and (c2) an arrangement of speed limit symbols included in the detected traffic signs satisfy a predetermined speed reduction pattern. |
| US09994226B2 |
Systems and methods for active engine mount diagnostics
Methods and systems are provided for diagnosing whether active engine mounts configured to isolate engine vibration from a cabin and chassis of a vehicle are functioning as desired. In one example, engine vibrations are actively induced, and the active engine mounts are alternately controlled to a first, dampening mode, and to a second, stiffening mode for predetermined time periods, where resultant chassis vibrations are monitored during the predetermined time periods. By monitoring chassis vibrations as a function of induced engine vibrations, and further responsive to the active engine mounts being controlled to the first and second modes, it may be indicated as to whether the active engine mounts are functioning as desired. |
| US09994225B1 |
Method and apparatus for controlling a synchronous engagement clutch in a multi-mode powertrain system
A powertrain system includes a geartrain configured to transfer mechanical power between an internal combustion engine, torque machines and a driveline by activation of a synchronous engagement clutch. A method includes commanding activation of the synchronous engagement clutch, including commanding operations of the engine and the first and second torque machines to control members of the clutch, including monitoring speeds thereof. A magnitude of clutch slip is determined. A zero-slip feedback control routine is executed when the clutch slip approaches a zero-slip state, wherein the zero-slip feedback control routine is operative to control the engine and the first and second torque machines to control the rotational speeds of the opposed first and second members to achieve zero clutch slip. The synchronous engagement clutch is activated when the clutch slip is less than a threshold level associated with the zero-slip state. |
| US09994222B2 |
Vehicle and start/stop method for a vehicle
A vehicle includes an engine, automatic transmission, and a controller. The engine is configured to auto-start and auto-stop. The automatic transmission has a shift-by-wire gear selector. The controller is programmed to, in response to shifting the gear selector to a neutral position while the engine is running, command the engine to auto-stop. |
| US09994220B2 |
Target vehicle speed generating device and driving control device
A target vehicle speed generating device basically includes a determination unit and a correction unit. The determination unit determines whether or not a sudden change point is present in the target vehicle speed contained in the corrects the target vehicle speed so as to eliminate the sudden change point upon determining that the sudden change point is present by the determination unit. The sudden change point corresponds to a point at which acceleration changes in excess of a predetermined condition. |
| US09994217B2 |
Vehicle rear wheel steering assist control system and control method therefor
A vehicle rear wheel steering assist control system is provided where a wheel deflection angle measuring instrument is mounted at a front wheel for measuring a steering angle of the front wheel, a rotational velocity measuring instrument is also mounted at the front wheel for testing a velocity of the front wheel, output ends of the wheel deflection angle measuring instrument and the rotational velocity measuring instrument are electrically connected to the data acquisition module, the data acquisition module is electrically connected to the controller, the controller is electrically connected to a data execution module, the rear wheel active steering device is mounted at a rear wheel of the automobile, the rear wheel active steering device is electrically connected to the data execution module, the controller is electrically connected to an ECU of the automobile, each automobile seat is provided with a weight sensor, which are electrically connected to the controller. |
| US09994211B2 |
Method for controlling torque intervention of hybrid vehicle
A method for controlling torque intervention in a power split-parallel hybrid vehicle comprises a determination step, in which whether the torque intervention for controlling the driving force of the vehicle is requested. Upon the torque intervention request, a driver's requested torque and an intervention torque for the torque intervention are determined in a decision step. When a torque intervention request time during which torque intervention is requested is below a reference time, each of driving sources is controlled together to output the driver's requested torque plus the intervention torque as a final requested torque on the basis of a current driving mode which is maintained as a driving mode just before the torque intervention is requested. |
| US09994207B2 |
Autolift-resistant piston assembly for an unloader valve of an air compressor
An autolift-resistant piston assembly is provided for an air compressor. The piston assembly comprises an unloader piston having an interior chamber. The piston assembly further comprises a first coil spring for biasing the unloader piston to a loaded position when the piston assembly is installed in the air compressor. The piston assembly also comprises an inner member disposed in the interior chamber of the unloader piston and including (i) a body portion, and (ii) a tapered end portion extending from the body portion and facing an unloader air passage of the air compressor when the piston assembly is installed in the air compressor. |
| US09994201B2 |
Electro-pneumatic braking system for a railway vehicle
An electro-pneumatic braking system including a pneumatic pressure supply pipe, a generator for generating a vehicle load signal, a weighting system designed to supply a weighted pressure which defines a maximum braking pressure, limited as a function of the load signal, and braking control units connected to the weighting system and having a relay valve connected between the pipe and at least one brake cylinder, to cause the application to this cylinder of a controllable braking pressure, equal to or less than the weighted pressure. The weighting system includes an electro-pneumatic drive assembly, interposed between the pipe and the drive inlet of the relay valve and is connected to the pipe through a pressure limiter, and an electronic weighting control unit which controls this drive assembly as a function of the load signal, so as to modulate in predetermined ways the pressure at the drive inlet of the relay valve. |
| US09994200B2 |
Automatic stopping device for forklift
An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an automatic stopping device for a forklift, and more particularly, to an automatic stopping device for a forklift, which forcibly stops the forklift by simultaneously operating a forward clutch and a reverse clutch when an operator moves away from the forklift in a state in which an engine is turned on. According to the automatic stopping device for a forklift according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, first, it is possible to prevent a safety accident by forcibly stopping the forklift in the absence of the operator, and second, the automatic stopping device for a forklift is economical because it is possible to effectively stop the forklift using an additional simple configuration. |
| US09994199B2 |
Method for securing a vehicle at a standstill
A vehicle includes an electromechanical braking device having an electric brake motor, at least one wheel, and a steering actuator that is operable to adjust the at least one wheel. A method for securing the vehicle at a standstill includes applying brake force via the brake motor and actuating the steering actuator to adjust the at least one wheel. |
| US09994198B1 |
Wheel cleaning implement
A cleaning implement has one or more strategically placed brushes, stubs and/or permanent/disposable towels which engage the surfaces of a movable surface (including wheels or tires), and unique mechanical motion assistance means powered by motion, inertia and/or mechanical/electrical batteries to allow for the cleaning of a wheel or tire with a single hand operation. |
| US09994192B2 |
Vehicle pop-up hood device
A vehicle pop-up hood device includes: a hinge base; a first arm that has a rear end portion coupled to the hinge base, and that has a front portion disposed offset toward the vehicle width direction inner side with respect to the rear end portion; a second arm that is coupled to the front portion of the first arm so as to be capable of swinging, and that moves the hood toward a vehicle upper side; an actuator that spans between the first arm and the second arm, and that lifts the hood from a closed position to a lifted position; and a link mechanism that includes a first link and a second link. A coupling location of the hinge base to the first link is disposed further to the vehicle width direction inner side than a coupling location of the hinge base to the first arm. |
| US09994191B2 |
Gas bag arrangement for a motor vehicle
A gas bag arrangement for a motor vehicle is provided. The gas bag arrangement contains a gas bag which can be deployed for the protection of a person present outside the motor vehicle along at least a section of the outside of the windshield or another portion of an outside of the motor vehicle, at least one pressure reducing device for reducing the internal pressure at least of a partial region of the at least partly inflated gas bag, and a means for moving at least a section of the at least partly inflated gas bag out of the field of view of a vehicle occupant of the vehicle. |
| US09994188B1 |
Gas generating system
A gas generating system includes a first housing and a second housing contained within the first housing and engaging the first housing in an interference fit. |
| US09994185B2 |
Vehicle side air curtain with tether including a hole
A side air curtain includes an inner panel and an outer panel defining an inflation chamber. The inflation chamber is inflatable from an uninflated position to an inflated position. The side air curtain includes a tether attached to the inner panel and the outer panel. The tether includes at least one hole extending through the first tether and spaced from the inner panel and the outer panel. |
| US09994184B2 |
Vehicle side airbag with secondary chamber
A side curtain airbag that has a rear chamber, a front chamber and a secondary chamber affixed to said front chamber. The side curtain air bag has tear stitching and permanent stitching connecting the secondary chamber to an inboard panel of the air curtain such that, in a deployed state, the secondary chamber occupies a gap between a driver airbag and the curtain airbag. |
| US09994173B2 |
Increasing the availability of ultrasound-based driver assistance systems in the event of undervoltage in the vehicle
A driver assistance system of a vehicle includes: at least one ultrasonic sensor for ascertaining the distance of the vehicle from an obstacle, the sensor being supplied with electrical energy by an onboard electrical system of the vehicle; and an undervoltage detector for detecting an undervoltage in the onboard electrical system, in the event of which the power requirement of the ultrasonic sensor is reduced. |
| US09994172B2 |
Methods and systems to determine and communicate driver performance
A method of rating driver effectiveness based on vehicle data compared to other vehicles that have driven over the same road segment includes storing driving speed data over a road segment for a plurality of vehicles. The method further includes calculating a nominal speed profile for the road segment based on the driving speed data. The method further includes comparing a speed profile of a subject vehicle to the nominal speed profile for the road segment and displaying a smoothness rating of the subject vehicle based on deviation of the speed profile from the nominal speed profile. |
| US09994170B2 |
Exterior member end cap and wire harness
An exterior member end cap, to be attached to an end portion of a tubular shaped exterior member from which at least one conductive path is withdrawn, is provided. The exterior member end cap includes a cap main body and a first sealing member. The cap main body is inserted into the exterior member from the end portion so as to be disposed on an outside of the conductive path. The first sealing member has a elasticity, is disposed on an outside of the cap main body in close contact with an outer peripheral surface of the cap main body, is close contact with an inner peripheral surface of the exterior member, and has a continuous bubble structure. |
| US09994165B1 |
System and method for delaying vehicle interior door trim disengagement from door sheet metal during side impact
A vehicle door has a metal door frame having at least one opening, a decorative interior door panel, and at least one post projecting outwardly from an inner side of the decorative interior door panel. The post may have a length, cross sectional shape and cross sectional dimensions to engage within the opening when the decorative interior door panel is secured to the metal door frame. The post and the opening may cooperate to delay separation and movement of the decorative interior door panel upwardly and away from the metal door frame during a side impact crash on the vehicle door. |
| US09994164B2 |
Interchangeable display system for art ornaments on motor vehicles
A display system that temporarily but securely displays a variety of large-sized interchangeable display objects atop vehicle rooftops for eye-catching public broadcast. The display system comprises a display object and a common, reusable base. The display object combines an art ornament with a display object connection assembly that matingly connects to a base connection assembly without the use of tools. The base is releasably secured to vehicle rooftops using an array of magnets. Intended for personal use, the display system is designed to be more convenient and aesthetic than commercial displays allowing users to display a variety of interchangeable display objects with associated art ornaments, communicating different messages based on changes in the seasons, their activities and interests, their mood, or other factors. |
| US09994160B2 |
Roof rack structure
A roof rack structure may include a roof rail, which is hollow, including a hook coupling portion formed at one end portion or both end portions of a lower portion of the roof rail in a width direction thereof and integrally formed to extend in a length direction of a vehicle, and a pad including a pad hook formed at one side portion or both side portions of the pad in a width direction thereof such that the hook coupling portion of the roof rail is inserted into the pad hook, the pad formed to extend in the length direction of the vehicle. |
| US09994159B2 |
Multi-position stair assembly for work vehicles
A stair assembly for a work vehicle includes a stepped support and an actuator. The stepped support has one or more steps mountable to a side of the work vehicle. The stepped support is moveable by the actuator between a retracted orientation, in which the stepped support has a first length between first and second ends, and an extended orientation, in which the support structure has a greater length. When mounted to the work vehicle, the second end of the stepped support is at an outward lowered position in the extended orientation with respect to the work vehicle relative to an inward raised position of the second end of the stepped support in the retracted orientation. |
| US09994158B2 |
Working vehicle
A working vehicle, including: a driving unit into which a worker gets to perform driving, the driving unit being provided to a vehicle-body; a step on which the worker steps when getting in or out of the vehicle, the step being provided at an outer side of a floor of the driving unit with respect to a left-and-right direction of the vehicle-body; a fuel tank provided below the floor so as to be adjacent to the step; and a fuel tank supporting bracket which supports the fuel tank from below, wherein the step has an upper side step part, and a lower side step part, the upper side step part is attached to the floor, and the lower side step part is attached to the fuel tank supporting bracket. |
| US09994157B2 |
Periphery monitoring apparatus and periphery monitoring system
A periphery monitoring apparatus includes: an acquisition unit configured to acquire first image data that is captured by a first imaging unit provided on a left side of a vehicle body, and second image data that is captured by a second imaging unit provided on a right side of the vehicle body; and an output unit configured to combine third image data which is generated by rotating, and magnifying or minifying the first image data in such a way that a plurality of left reference points included in the first image data are respectively displayed at pre-set positions, and fourth image data which is generated by rotating, and magnifying or minifying the second image data in such a way that a plurality of right reference points included in the second image data are respectively displayed at pre-set positions, and to output the combined image data. |
| US09994156B2 |
Rearview device
A rearview device includes a housing that includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side. An electro-optic element is operably coupled with the first side of the housing. A rear trim bezel is disposed on the second side of the housing. A rear trim plate is operably coupled with the second side of the housing. A peripheral gap is defined between the rear trim plate and the second side of the housing. A spacing truss is disposed in the peripheral gap. The spacing truss includes first and second lateral walls extending to the rear trim bezel. |
| US09994155B2 |
Vehicle side-view mirror
A sleeve 15 is formed on a mirror base 10. An opening 28a is formed in a mirror head 20. The sleeve 15 has an outer peripheral surface including a first outer peripheral surface 15a and a second outer peripheral surface 15b. The second outer peripheral surface 15b is located further in an inward radial direction of the sleeve 15 than the first outer peripheral surface 15a. The second outer peripheral surface 15b is formed so as to extend smoothly in a circumferential direction of the sleeve. A passage 40, which guides wind entering the mirror head 20, is formed between the second outer peripheral surface 15b and an inner peripheral surface of the opening 28a. |
| US09994146B2 |
Blind spot indicator
A beam is projected on the roadway by a vehicle that is visible to vehicles that are in its proximity, the beam on the roadway indicating to adjacent vehicles when they are in a blind spot of the beam generating vehicle. This makes it possible for the vehicle to slow down, speed up or move into another lane to avoid being in a blind spot of the vehicle in its proximity. An optical beam generator is mounted or integrated on a vehicle such as within side view mirror(s). The beam(s) may be generated using any suitable optical beam generator(s) including a laser, LED's or any other suitable source of illumination for projecting a line or other optical illuminated indicia to demarcate blind spot region(s) to operators of adjoining vehicles. |
| US09994144B2 |
Illuminated automotive glazings
A vehicle is provided that includes a glazing that has a first glass substrate and a second glass substrate. A polymeric interlayer is positioned between the first and second glass substrates and a phosphorescent layer is positioned on the polymeric interlayer. A light source is optically coupled with polymeric interlayer. |
| US09994141B1 |
Retractable platform and staircase for a recreational vehicle
A frame mounted on the underside of the RV comprising two parallel tracks. A platform is mounted to the frame for movement about the frame between a retracted position underneath the RV and an extended position extending from the RV. The platform comprises of two parallel rails each of which is mounted to one of the two parallel tracks. A deck extends between the two parallel rails. A prime mover is mounted on one end to the platform and the other end is mounted to the frame to move the platform with respect to the frame. |
| US09994140B2 |
Floor mat with integral heel blocker
A floor mat is provided for a motor vehicle. The floor mat includes a debris pan and a debris retaining wall encompassing the debris pan. In addition, the floor mat includes an integral heel blocker within the debris retaining wall that is adapted to protect the feet, heels and lower legs of an operator of a motor vehicle in the event of a frontal collision. |
| US09994139B2 |
Leg rest apparatus for vehicle
The present disclosure provides a leg rest device for a vehicle. The leg rest device includes: a leg rest coupled to the front side of a seat cushion of a vehicle; a driving unit to fold and unfold the leg rest upward and downward; and a tilting unit that has a side coupled to the leg rest and the other side coupled to the seat cushion. In particular, the tilting unit tilts the leg rest forward at a predetermined angle when the leg rest is unfolded. |
| US09994138B2 |
Seat with deployable plastic beam
A beam module for a vehicle seat is mounted at a front of a seat, on top of a seat pan and underneath a seat cushion. The module includes a molded plastic beam. The module has a first shape substantially flush with the seat pan and a second shape projecting above the seat pan. The molded plastic beam has a mounting flange with a forward portion and a second portion. The molded plastic beam is inflatable. When inflated, the molded plastic beam assumes its second shape with the seat cushion being correspondingly displaced and deformed to raise the seat cushion when a frontal impact is detected. |
| US09994135B2 |
Independent cushion thigh support
A vehicle seating assembly includes a base seat defining a seating surface configured to position an H-point of an occupant at a predetermined location. The base seat includes first and second sides. First and second seat bolsters are disposed at the first and second sides, respectively, of the base seat. First and second thigh supports are disposed forward of the base seat. The first and second thigh supports define a cushion split. A transverse seam extends across a forward edge of the base seat. The transverse seam is forward of the H-point a predetermined distance. The first and second thigh supports are pivotable about an axis disposed at the predetermined distance forward of the H-point. |
| US09994131B1 |
Preventive self-adjusting structure vehicle seat designed restraint
An apparatus or front row vehicle seat having portions A, B, C and D. The apparatus is adjustable by an occupant in its normal motionless position. When a vehicle electronic control unit senses a hazardous traffic situation, it causes activation of a seat actuator. In response, each of seat portions A, B, C, and D is simultaneously altered, without an occupants' action, to a new deployed position. The new deployed positions of the seat portions A, B, C, and D inhibit occupant ejection from a vehicle. The portions A, B and D of the apparatus are supported by front and rear stationary pillars and a middle movable pillar. The pillars project from a related unit seat height adjuster. The interaction of the rear stationary pillars with the portion D helps keep various seat components in the same orientation and position with respect to each other before and after deployment. |
| US09994126B2 |
System and control method for preventing interference between front and rear seats for vehicle
A system and a control method can prevent interference between front and rear seats for a vehicle, and allow reclining control and slide control for the front and rear seats to be performed, to control a seat back rearward movement angle of a front seat based on a seat back angle of the front seat, a position of the rear seat, and an interval between the front and rear seats at the time of rearward reclining control for the front seat, control a rearward slide movement distance based on the seat back angle of the front seat at the time of rearward slide control for the front seat, and calculate in advance a likelihood that interference will occur between the front and rear seats so as to stop the control operation at the time of performing a rearward reclining control operation and a rearward slide control operation. |
| US09994117B2 |
System and method for providing power to a mining operation
A system for employing gravity to provide electrical power for mining operations in a mine includes a battery configured to power an electric vehicle. The vehicle includes a kinetic energy capture system that can charge the battery as the vehicle conveys a loaded vehicle down a ramp from an ore face to a chamber. Traveling down the ramp produces a surplus charge in the battery due to a weight differential between a loaded vehicle traveling down a ramp producing more energy via the kinetic energy capture system than energy used by the vehicle to convey the empty vehicle up the ramp to the ore face. A discharging device disposed in the chamber is configured to discharge the surplus energy out of the battery and into the mine's power grid. One or multiple trips between the ore face and the chamber may fully charge the battery. |
| US09994116B2 |
Dual charge ride-on vehicle
A battery-powered vehicle is provided having dual charging capabilities. The vehicle has a body, a plurality of wheels supporting the body, a motor connected to at least one of the plurality of wheels, a battery port having a battery dock and battery dock terminals, a remote charging dock on an exterior of the vehicle body, the remote charging dock having remote charging terminals, a charger having a charger plug and associated charger terminals, and a removable and rechargeable battery having battery terminals. The battery is configured to be positioned in the battery port for charging in the battery port and to have the battery terminals electrically and mechanically mate with the battery dock terminals. The battery is also configured to be removed from the battery port and to have the battery terminals electrically and mechanically mate with the charger terminals for charging outside the battery port. |
| US09994114B2 |
Systems and methods for bi-state impedance conversion in wireless power transfer
One aspect provides a wireless power transmitter. The wireless power transmitter includes a transmit antenna configured to generate a field for wireless transmit power in both a first and second configuration. The wireless power transmitter further includes a first capacitor. The wireless power transmitter further includes at least one switch configured to selectively connect the first capacitor in one of the first and second configuration, the first capacitor being in parallel with the transmit antenna in the first configuration and in series with the transmit antenna in the second configuration. The wireless power transmitter further includes a second capacitor in parallel with the transmit antenna and a transformer configured to operate at a first turns-ratio in the first configuration and a second turns-ratio in the second configuration, the first turns-ratio being lower than the second turns-ratio. |
| US09994110B2 |
Dual gate solid state devices to reduce switching loss
A vehicle includes an electric machine that provides propulsive force to the vehicle, and a power inverter that supplies power from a traction battery to the electric machine using a first and second switch configured as a half-bridge. The first switch has a first gate, a first gate lead coupled with the first gate and having a first inductance, and a second gate lead coupled with the first gate and having a second inductance greater than the first inductance. |
| US09994109B2 |
Power supply system applied to electrically powered vehicle
A boost converter is configured of a boost chopper having a diode of an upper arm and a switching element of a lower arm. Output power from a battery to a load is limited such that a current flowing through boost converter does not exceed a current upper limit value for thermal protection of boost converter. The current upper limit value is set based not only on a cooling water temperature of boost converter but also on an output voltage VH of boost converter, in consideration of characteristics that, as output voltage VH rises, an amount of heat generated in diode decreases, diode being regarded as a main target of thermal protection since it receives a power running current to load. Thereby, the boost converter can be protected from overheating without excessively deteriorating vehicle traveling performance. |
| US09994105B2 |
Working machine
A working machine having a body supported on a ground engaging structure and a working arm mounted to the body so as capable of performing working operations. The working machine having a drive arrangement to propel the working machine including a prime mover and a hydrostatic transmission including at least one hydraulic pump driven by the prime mover, and at least one motor driven by hydraulic fluid. The working machine also having a hand throttle for selectively setting the power output of the prime mover, a foot throttle for dynamically adjusting the power output of the prime mover in a first mode of operation, wherein the transmission is configured to operate in a second mode of operation when a predetermined criterion is met, and in the second mode the foot throttle directly controls the speed of movement of the ground engaging structure. |
| US09994103B2 |
Transfer for four-wheel drive vehicle
A transfer for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes a case, an input shaft, a output shaft, a output member, a friction clutch, an actuator, a pressing mechanism, a locking sleeve, a first locking sleeve driving mechanism, and a second locking sleeve driving mechanism. The second locking sleeve driving mechanism is configured to move a locking sleeve independently of the actuator and the first locking sleeve driving mechanism. The second locking sleeve driving mechanism includes a pushpin. The pushpin is configured to move in a second axial direction that is perpendicular to a first axial direction and engage with a cam groove. The pushpin is configured to move the locking sleeve toward the output member side as the locking sleeve rotates when the pushpin is engaged with the cam groove. |
| US09994101B2 |
Vehicle fuel tank
The inside wall of a fuel tank, and a sub-component are provided with locking means in the form of complementary formations that allow the sub-component to be coupled to the inside surface of the fuel tank wall. Interlocking of the complementary formations is achieved by moving the sub-component towards the wall providing angular movement to the sub-component relative to the fuel tank. A biasing structure imparts a tension between the sub-component and the fuel tank. |
| US09994097B2 |
Hail-resistant vehicle cover
A hail-resistant cover for a vehicle is provided which may include a plurality of cover panels, each cover panel including a cover panel sleeve and an impact resistant cover panel insert. The cover panels may be affixed to each other by flexible cover panel joints which allow the cover panels to fold over onto the adjacent cover panels. The cover may also include anchors for anchoring the cover to the top of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the cover panels are removably affixed to the adjacent cover panels. |
| US09994094B2 |
Profile element for connecting a vehicle window pane to a cover part and profile element assembly
A profile element for connecting a vehicle window pane to a cover part includes a first connecting area for connecting the profile element to the vehicle window pane and a second connecting area for connecting the profile element to the cover part. A sealing element has at least a first segment and a second segment that are moveable relative to each other. The first segment has a first sealing surface configured to be placed against the vehicle window pane and the second segment has a second sealing surface configured to be placed against the cover part such that the sealing element forms a seal between the vehicle window pane and the cover part. |
| US09994093B2 |
Guide and sunshade assembly provided therewith
A guide is presented intended for use in a sunshade assembly of the type comprising a flexible sunscreen having opposed longitudinal edges and two opposed longitudinal guides each comprising at least two spaced guide legs for defining there between a guide channel for receiving therein and guiding corresponding ones of the opposed longitudinal edges of the sunscreen. The guides and longitudinal edges are provided with cooperating guide locking members and edge locking members for preventing the longitudinal edges of the sunscreen from moving out of the guide channels. The guide locking members are defined on separate parts engaging the guides. |
| US09994092B2 |
Panel structure
A panel structure includes a first panel that is made of resin and has a first flange portion, and a second panel that is made of resin and has a second flange portion that overlaps the first flange portion and is joined to the first flange portion by an adhesive, and an abutting portion that abuts against a tip end portion of the first flange portion. The second panel forms a closed sectional shape (a hollow chamber) with the first panel. |
| US09994089B1 |
Vehicle curtain
A vehicle includes a lift gate operable between the open and closed positions and includes an interior trim panel. A track assembly is positioned on a perimeter of the interior trim panel. A curtain is coupled to the track assembly and configured to hang from the lift gate in the open position. |
| US09994078B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire (1) includes a tread portion (2) having at least one heat-dissipating recess portion (9). The recess portion (9) includes an opening edge (10) and an inner wall portion (11). The opening edge (10) includes a linear first edge (10a) and second edge (10b) opposite each other. The inner wall portion (11) includes a first wall surface (11a) extending from the first edge (10a) to a bottom portion (9a) at the deepest position of the recess portion (9), and a second wall surface (11b) extending from the second edge (10b) to the bottom portion (9a). An inclination angle ([theta]1) of the first wall surface (11a) with respect to a first normal (12a) to a contact surface passing the first edge (10a) is greater than an inclination angle ([theta]2) of a second wall surface (22b) with respect to a second normal (23b) to the contact surface passing the second edge (21b). |
| US09994077B2 |
Pneumatic tire
Provided is a pneumatic tire having high snow road performance. Provided is a pneumatic tire, the direction of mounting of which to a vehicle is specified. A tread section has formed therein an outer shoulder main groove which extends in a zigzag pattern, an outer middle main groove, outer shoulder lateral grooves, and outer middle lateral grooves. As a result, outer shoulder lands and outer middle lands are formed on the tread section. The outer shoulder lands are provided with outer shoulder lug grooves, and the outer middle lands are provided with outer middle lug grooves. The outer shoulder lateral grooves and the outer middle lug grooves are smoothly connected through the outer shoulder main groove. The outer middle lateral grooves and the outer shoulder lug grooves are smoothly connected through the outer shoulder main groove. |
| US09994072B2 |
Patient care bed
A caster locking mechanism includes a foot movable between retracted and extended positions, a lock bar movable from an unlocked to a locked position, a release bar movable from an initial to a release position, and a lock and release assembly. The lock and release assembly includes a guide plate defining a slot, a rocker coupled to the lock bar and including a protrusion slidably disposed within the slot, and a release member coupled to the release bar and including a protrusion slidably disposed within the slot. Moving the lock bar to the locked position slides the protrusion of the rocker through the slot to extend the foot. Moving the release bar to the release position urges the protrusion of the release member through the and into contact with the protrusion of the rocker to urge the protrusion of the rocker back, thereby retracting the foot. |
| US09994070B2 |
Multi-hub wheel assembly for motor vehicles
Disclosed are wheel assemblies for motor vehicle powertrains, methods for making and methods for using wheel assemblies, and motor vehicles with wheel units each composed of a tire and a wheel assembly. For example, a multi-hub wheel assembly for a motor vehicle is disclosed. The motor vehicle includes a tire and a suspension component, such as a hub-and-bearing assembly, mounted to the vehicle body. The wheel assembly includes an outer wheel with an annular rim well attached to a central hub. The central hub mounts onto the vehicle's suspension component, e.g., via lugs and bolts, while the tire mounts onto the rim well. The wheel assembly also includes an intermediate hub with a deflection annular rim attached to a mounting base. The mounting base is attached to the outer wheel. The intermediate hub mounts inside a hollow core of the outer wheel, interposed between the central hub and the suspension component. |
| US09994069B2 |
Methods of manufacturing paint roller covers from a tubular fabric sleeve
A method of manufacturing paint roller covers is disclosed in which the paint roller covers are manufactured from a seamless segment of tubular paint roller cover fabric that is placed onto a cylindrical forming tube having a segment of bonding material temporarily secured on its outer surface under the segment of tubular paint roller cover fabric. The cylindrical forming tube is placed on a heated mandrel to apply heat thereto to cause the bonding material to bond to the interior of the segment of tubular paint roller cover fabric. The cylindrical forming tube is removed from the mandrel and cooled, and the segment of tubular paint roller cover fabric becomes secured to the bonding material to produce a semi-rigid paint roller cover segment. The semi-rigid paint roller cover segment may be finished into paint roller covers by cutting it into appropriately sized segments, combing and shearing the pile fabric to a desired length, beveling the edges of the paint roller covers, and vacuuming stray fibers from the paint roller covers. |
| US09994068B1 |
Artist's palette
An artist's palette is provided herein including: a body having a first, generally flat surface; a protruding first ridge running along an edge of the first surface; and, a pane removably mountable to the body, the pane being transparent or sufficiently translucent to permit visual color matching through the pane of a sample of prepared paint disposed on the pane with a reference sample disposed between the pane and the body. The artist's palette may be provided as part of an assembly which also includes a cover removably mountable to the body, the cover being configured to be mounted to the body without any portion of the cover contacting the first surface and without any portion of the cover contacting the pane. |
| US09994065B2 |
Adjustable frame for hanging folders
A hanging file folder frame is disclosed in several embodiments one of which is constructed of three segments. Two frames are joined together by rails. The frame includes a slot of a particular profile and the rails have a similar profile to slide into the slots. On the bottom of the frame are recesses sized to receive a portion of a wireframe leg. The leg is prevented from being ejected from the frame by a spanning flange which bridges part of the recess and confines a part of the leg between the recess walls and the flange. |
| US09994064B2 |
Media binder
A media binder, comprising: a front surface board, at least one spine board, and a back surface board, wherein each board comprises an inwardly facing surface and an outwardly facing surface; a cover sheet wrapped around the outwardly facing surface of the spine board and a portion of a surface cover sheet, the surface cover sheet wrapped around the outwardly facing surface of at least one surface board and comprises a first marginal edge attached to the inwardly facing surface of the at least one surface board and a second marginal edge unattached to the inwardly facing surface of the at least one surface board; at least one spring clamp to secure physical media inserted between clamp edges of the at least one spring clamp; and a tension sheet attached to the at least one spring clamp and the inwardly facing surface of the at least one surface board. |
| US09994063B2 |
Booklet having anti-counterfeiting function, and method for manufacturing the same
A booklet includes a sheet-like first substrate, and a sheet-like second substrate that is attached to the first substrate. The first substrate includes a light-transmitting region, and an optical functional unit is provided to the light-transmitting region. A latent image is provided to a surface of the second substrate that is opposite to the first substrate at a position corresponding to the optical functional unit. The latent image manifests when the optical functional unit operates by overlapping the first substrate with the second substrate. |
| US09994060B2 |
Page pressing apparatus and document camera system
In order to prevent a page from returning from a page-turning end point to a page-turning start point and improve the reliability of page turning, in addition to a catching section having a plurality of vane sections provided on the outer circumferential surface, there are provided a pull-in roller which rotates around the rotation axis of the catching section and has a diameter smaller than that of the catching section and a pressing roller having a diameter smaller than that of the pull-in roller. When a page is conveyed by a sticking section, the catching section brings the page to a page-turning end point while rubbing the page surface with the rotating vane sections, and the pull-in roller pulls in the page caught by the vane sections of the catching section. The pressing roller presses the page pulled in by the pull-in roller at the page-turning end point. |
| US09994058B2 |
Bookbinding apparatus and image forming system
The book binding device includes a section for forming a cut in the end side of a conveyed sheet, a control section for controlling the section for forming a cut, and a selection section for selecting each sheet for the presence/absence of a cut to be formed by the section for forming a cut, wherein the control section controls the formation of a cut by the section for forming a cut based on the presence/absence of the formation of a cut selected by the selection section, and then the mixture of sheets in which cuts are formed and sheets in which cuts are not formed are bundled and bound to complete a booklet. |
| US09994053B2 |
Achieving ink cost saving for printing devices by taking visual appearance and real ink costs into account
A user defines the real costs for each of the individual inks used in printer and also defines a tolerance level for visual acceptance, defined in CIE units of DeltaE2000. Then, an algorithm performs a search through all nodes of the device link profile and for each node it tries to find an ink combination that creates less costs and is still within the given visual tolerance ( |
| US09994050B1 |
Sheet conveying system and image forming system
A sheet conveying system includes: an upstream apparatus provided on an upstream side in a conveyance direction of a paper sheet; a downstream apparatus provided on a downstream side of the upstream apparatus; an upstream conveyor that conveys the paper sheet; an upstream driver that drives the upstream conveyor; a downstream conveyor that receives the paper sheet conveyed from the upstream conveyor, and conveys the paper sheet received from the upstream conveyor; a downstream driver that drives the downstream conveyor; an upstream controller that is connected to the upstream and downstream drivers; and a downstream controller that is connected to the downstream and upstream drivers, wherein the sheet conveying system switches control on the basis of sheet information between first control in which the upstream controller controls the upstream and downstream drivers and second control in which the downstream controller controls the downstream and upstream drivers. |
| US09994049B1 |
Adjustable path length of print media in a dryer of a printing system
Systems and methods for adjustable path length of print media in a dryer of a printing system. In one embodiment, the dryer includes a drum that applies heat to a web of print media. The dryer also includes first rollers positioned in an arc around the drum to define a path of travel of the web along the arc when the web is between an entrance of the dryer and the drum. The dryer further includes second rollers positioned inside the arc from the first rollers to reverse the path of travel of the web inside the arc when the web is between the drum and an exit of the dryer. A first roller and a second roller transport the web around the drum. A location of the first roller and the second roller relative to the arc defines a length of the web inside the dryer. |
| US09994046B2 |
Inkjet printing device and inkjet printing method
Generation of cockling is suppressed to enable superior image quality printing. An inkjet printing device is provided with a head discharging ultraviolet curing ink onto a medium, pinning irradiation sections irradiating the ultraviolet curing ink on the medium with light, and a curing irradiation section arranged on a downstream side of the pinning irradiation sections in a conveying direction of the medium, and radiating light with a shorter wavelength than the pinning irradiation sections. |
| US09994043B2 |
Near field coupling devices and associated systems and methods
An example media processing device includes a coupler configured to transmit wireless signals to an encoding area, the coupler to transmit the wireless signals via a plurality of radiating elements; a controller to control which set of the radiating elements is to transmit the wireless signals; and a processor to adapt the coupler to a transponder configuration by: encoding a first transponder of the transponder configuration using the first set of the radiating elements to transmit the wireless signals; executing a first encoding evaluation on the encoded first transponder; encoding a second transponder of the transponder configuration using the second set of the radiating elements to transmit the wireless signals; executing a second encoding evaluation on the encoded second transponder; and selecting, based on the first and second encoding evaluations, the first set or the second set as a preferred radiating set for the transponder configuration. |
| US09994040B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus, liquid ejection method, and liquid ejection head
The liquid ejection apparatus includes a circulation unit configured to circulate a liquid along a circulation passage extending from a liquid supply source to the liquid supply source through a liquid ejection head. Further, the liquid ejection apparatus includes a deaeration unit configured to perform a deaeration operation of decreasing a dissolved gas amount of the liquid, a recovery unit configured to recover ejection performance of an ejection opening, and a control unit configured to control an operation of driving the circulation unit and the deaeration unit. The control unit starts the deaeration operation and circulates the liquid having been deaerated by the deaeration operation inside a circulation path after the recovery operation and before an initial printing operation after the recovery operation. |
| US09994038B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, flow passage member, and method of controlling liquid ejecting head
A flow passage member is used in a liquid ejecting head including an ejecting unit. The ejecting unit communicates with a self-sealing unit which is a negative pressure generation mechanism. The flow passage member includes a flow passage internal pressure adjustment mechanism that adjusts a pressure inside a flow passage between the self-sealing unit and the ejecting unit by changing a volume of the flow passage on a way of the flow passage and a flow passage opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the flow passage on a way of a flow passage between the self-sealing unit and the flow passage internal pressure adjustment mechanism. |
| US09994029B2 |
Print head for an ink jet printer
A print head for an ink jet printer includes at least one ink supply channel and at least one nozzle having a nozzle channel and an inflow opening, and ink can be pressed from the ink supply channel through the inflow opening into the nozzle channel and ejected therefrom, wherein the nozzle is arranged in a stationary manner on a side wall of the ink supply channel and in the ink supply channel a ram is provided, which can be moved back and forth between a reversal point that has a minimal distance from the inflow opening of the nozzle and a reversal point that has a maximal distance from the inflow opening of the nozzle, wherein a first limiting device limits the movement of a ram end face to a movement between the reversal points; and a second external device is provided for applying a negative pressure relative to the ambient air pressure to the ink in the ink supply channel. |
| US09994027B2 |
Cartridge having a fluid storage and a waste storage
Technology suppressing installation of a cartridge for supplying fluid and recovering waste fluid in a wrong orientation to a fluid ejection device is provided. The cartridge has a box-shaped case. The cartridge includes a fluid pack that stores a fluid and that is disposed in the case and a waste fluid retainer that is disposed beside the fluid pack inside the case. The waste fluid retainer is configured to hold waste fluid introduced to the case from the fluid ejection device. At least one corner of a side of the case on the side on which the fluid pack is disposed is beveled. |
| US09994024B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus with movable head unit
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head that has a nozzle opening surface in which the nozzles open, a displacing mechanism formed to change a posture of the liquid ejecting head between a first posture in which the nozzle opening surface is inclined with respect to the horizontal and a second posture in which an inclination of the nozzle opening surface is smaller than the inclination of the nozzle opening surface in the first posture, and a wiping member to wipe the liquid ejecting head. On the nozzle opening surface, if a vertical lower end in the first posture is a first end and a vertical upper end in the first posture is a second end, the wiping member wipes the liquid ejecting head from the first end side toward the second end side when the liquid ejecting head is in the second posture. |
| US09994023B2 |
Wipe cartridge carriage
The present invention is directed at a printhead cleaning assembly, comprising: a frame; a wipe cartridge receptacle mounted on the frame, the receptacle being movable relative to the frame between a first receptacle position and a second receptacle position; a wipe cartridge fixing latch, mounted on the wipe cartridge receptacle, wherein the latch is movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the latch is coupled to a lock/unlock mechanism that moves the latch between the closed position and the open position in response to a movement of the receptacle between the first receptacle position and the second receptacle position. |
| US09994022B2 |
Recording device, recording method, and recording unit
A distance between a plurality of discharge orifice rows that discharge ink having a high permeation speed at a plurality of recording parts is made to be shorter than a distance between a plurality of discharge orifice rows that discharge ink having a low permeation speed at a plurality of recording parts. |
| US09994021B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, and piezoelectric device
A liquid ejecting head includes a flow channel forming substrate that is provided with a space constituting a pressure generating chamber which communicates with nozzle openings, a vibration plate that is stacked on one surface of the flow channel forming substrate and seals the space, and a piezoelectric element that includes a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode sequentially stacked on a surface of the vibration plate opposite to the flow channel forming substrate, in which the first electrode is formed, in which at least a width of a first direction along the opposite surface is narrower than the space in a region corresponding to the space, the piezoelectric layer is stacked so as to overlap the first electrode and at least a part of the vibration plate in the region corresponding to the space, the second electrode is stacked so as to overlap the piezoelectric layer in the region corresponding to the space, and as a thickness of a stacked direction of the piezoelectric element is a thickness of the piezoelectric layer, a first thickness (D1) of the piezoelectric layer of a part positioned on the first electrode and a second thickness (D2) of the piezoelectric layer of a part positioned on the vibration plate satisfy a relationship of the first thickness (D1)>the second thickness (D2). |
| US09994020B2 |
High viscosity jetting method
A high viscosity jetting method includes jetting a liquid by a through-flow piezoelectric printhead through a nozzle in a nozzle plate, wherein a section of a nozzle has a shape including an outer edge with a minimum covering circle, the maximum distance from the outer edge to the center of the minimum covering circle is greater than the minimum distance from the outer edge to the center from the minimum covering circle times 1.2, and the jetting viscosity of the liquid is at least 20 mPa·s. |
| US09994018B2 |
Liquid ejection head and method of producing the same
A liquid ejection head includes a liquid ejection board and a liquid ejection head component disposed on the liquid ejection board. The liquid ejection board includes a substrate, an energy generating device on the substrate, a channel defining member defining a liquid channel and having a liquid ejection opening in communication with the liquid channel, a liquid supply passage in communication with the liquid channel, a liquid supply opening in communication with the liquid supply passage and having a smaller opening cross-sectional area taken in a direction perpendicular to a flow direction of a liquid than the liquid supply passage, and an opening in communication with the liquid channel. The liquid channel allows a liquid to be in contact with the energy generating device. The liquid ejection opening allows a liquid to be ejected therethrough. The liquid ejection head component closes at least a portion of the opening. |
| US09994017B2 |
Inkjet nozzle device having improved lifetime
An inkjet nozzle device includes a MEMS structure in contact with ink, wherein a tantalum oxide layer is deposited on at least part of the MEMS structure for inhibiting corrosion by the ink. |
| US09994016B2 |
Liquid ejection device
A liquid ejection device includes an ejection head having a plurality of nozzle groups, each of the plurality of nozzle groups including one nozzle or two or more nozzles arranged adjacent to each other, and a controller configured to determine an ejection timing each of the plurality of nozzle groups such that a first deviation amount in the main scanning direction between an first image and an second image on an medium is smaller than a second deviation amount in a main scanning direction between an area to be printed by an first nozzle group included the plurality of nozzle groups and an area to be printed by an second nozzle group adjacent to the first nozzle group. |
| US09994015B2 |
Liquid droplet jetting apparatus
A liquid droplet jetting apparatus includes: a carriage configured to scan in a main scanning direction; a jetting head installed in the carriage, having nozzles arranged in a sub scanning direction intersecting with the main scanning direction, and configured to jet liquid droplets from the nozzles; a conveyer configured to convey the recording medium in the sub scanning direction; and a controller configured to control the carriage, the jetting head and the conveyer. The nozzles form nozzle groups including two nozzle groups adjacent in the sub scanning direction; and the controller is configured to execute a predetermined printing mode in which a pass printing and conveyance of the recording medium in the sub scanning direction are alternately performed. The pass printing causes the carriage to move one time in the main scanning direction while jetting the liquid droplets from the nozzles. |
| US09994012B2 |
Ink jet recording method and ink jet recording apparatus
An ink jet recording method comprising ejecting an ink from a recording head to record an image on a recording medium using an ink jet recording apparatus. The ink jet recording apparatus includes a main tank having an air communication part, a sub tank, and a recording head. The ratio of the maximum ink storage amount of the main tank to the maximum ink storage amount of the sub tank is 3.0 or more to 50.0 or less. The temperature of the ink in the sub tank is higher than the temperature of the ink in the main tank. The ink contains a coloring material and a particular surfactant. |
| US09994009B2 |
Inverted double dome double vacuum debulk tool
An inverted double dome double vacuum debulk tool having separable upper and lower chamber portions which can be assembled to form a vacuum chamber. In accordance with some embodiments, the top and bottom halves each comprise a circular cylindrical sidewall closed at one end by an inverted dome. The domes may be hemispherical or semi-elliptical with convex sides facing the chamber interior space. A base plate on which the composite patch rests is removable from the vacuum chamber. Various fittings pass electrical power and vacuum into the tool and sensor outputs out of the tool. |
| US09994004B2 |
Multilayer films
A multilayer film is prepared from a high impact strength polyethylene (HI polyethylene); a Ziegler Natta catalyzed polyethylene (Z/N polyethylene) and a high pressure low density polyethylene (LD polyethylene) with i) at least one skin layer consists essentially of HI polyethylene and ii) at least one core layer comprises a blend of Z/N polyethylene and said LD polyethylene. The HI polyethylene has a density of from 0.915 to about 0.930 g/cc and a normalized impact strength of at least about 300 g/mil. The amount of HI polyethylene is from about 30 to about 55 weight % (based on the combined weights of the HI+Z/N+LD polyethylenes). The films described herein are readily prepared on blown film equipment and provide an excellent balance of mechanical properties. |
| US09994002B2 |
Polymer composition for high clarity laminate, process of manufacture and applications thereof
The present disclosure provides a polymer composition comprising: at least one low density polyethylene (LDPE); at least one linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE); and a nucleating agent in an amount in the range of 1.5% to 3.0% w/w of the total weight of the composition; wherein the low density polyethylene and the linear low density polyethylene are in a ratio in the range of 1:1 to 3:1 w/w. The present disclosure also provides a polyethylene film comprising the polymer composition. The present disclosure further provides high clarity laminates comprising the polyethylene film. The present disclosure also provides a process for the preparation of the laminate. |
| US09993999B2 |
Laminated windshield with defined break path
A laminated windshield includes an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer and an intermediate plastic layer or interlayer that prevents the windshield from shattering. The laminated windshield also includes a channel or break line engineered to break outward toward the outer glass layer thereby providing an emergency escape path from the interior of a motor vehicle. |
| US09993996B2 |
Thixotropic liquid-metal-based fluid and its use in making metal-based structures with or without a mold
This invention provides liquid-metal-based thixotropic fluids that, upon solidification with or without a mold, provide metal-matrix composite materials. The fluid is a liquid metal with dispersed solid particles, which can move substantially relative to one another. The liquid is essentially continuous; the solid is substantially discontinuous. The liquid substantially occupies the separation among the solid particles and essentially occupies a portion of the separation. The portion consists of a plurality of regions. Each region is in contact with the surface of a particle. This invention also provides a laminate consisting of metal-matrix composite layers that are essentially parallel and bonded to one another. This invention further provides a method of making a metal-based structure in the absence of a mold, with relevance to three-dimensional metal printing. This method comprises preparing, shaping and depositing the thixotropic fluid on a substrate, and allowing the fluid to cool for complete solidification. |
| US09993994B1 |
Apparatus and method to conceal damage on a vehicle
An apparatus to be affixed to a vehicle to conceal a damaged portion of the vehicle where the apparatus has an exterior surface with a color base coat of paint covered with a clear coat finish, which color base coat of paint exactly matches the color base coat of paint on the vehicle and the clear covering serves to further match the color of the paint on the vehicle which in turn has a clear coat covering. The invention serves to conceal minor damage to the vehicle until the damage such as a ding, dent, scratch etc can be repaired. |
| US09993988B2 |
Protective film with release surface
Films (10) for use in protecting surfaces are disclosed and comprise at least one release layer (14) and optionally an adhesion layer (12) and/or an intermediate layer, the release layer (14) having a plurality of three-dimensional protrusions (13) that are either formed integral with the release layer or are discrete polymer beads applied to the release layer. |
| US09993982B2 |
Methods of fabricating electronic and mechanical structures
The present invention relates to the fabrication of complicated electronic and/or mechanical structures and devices and components using homogeneous or heterogeneous 3D additive build processes. In particular the invention relates to selective metallization processes including electroless and/or electrolytic metallization. |
| US09993976B2 |
System and method for calibrating a laser scanning system
A system and method for calibrating a laser scanning system is provided. Various embodiments involve the use of a calibration plate with reference markings which is positioned to receive a directed beam in a set of known laser scanner positions. The directed beam forms a laser spot on the calibration plate, and the laser spot is captured using an image acquisition assembly such as a digital camera along with a motorized mount. The movement of the image acquisition assembly may be coordinated with the movement of the laser scanner to track the laser spot across the plate. After photographing various positions, actual laser spot coordinates are deduced from their position relative to the known positions of the reference markings. |
| US09993972B2 |
Seal carving apparatus and seal carving method
A seal carving apparatus includes a thermal head having a plurality of heat generating elements disposed in lines, and thermal drive control means that performs a control process of selectively and thermally driving the individual heat generating elements while moving the thermal head and a porous material in relative to each other with the thermal head being in abutment with the porous material, thereby forming a seal face on the porous material. The thermal drive control means controls a pulse time width for thermally driving the individual heat generating elements of the thermal head under pulse width modulation control based on gradation image data having a gradation value, thereby forming a seal with a gradation on the porous material. |
| US09993964B2 |
Method and system for producing three-dimensional build objects
A method of operating an extruder assembly to form a three-dimensional build object forms a build object quickly, with enhanced feature resolution, and with increased structural strength. The method includes positioning with at least one actuator an extruder having at least one opening defining an extrusion area through which build material can be extruded through the at least one opening. The extruder is positioned to cover a first portion of the extrusion area with a portion of an object supported on a build platen and to leave open a second portion of the extrusion area. The method further includes extruding a first continuous ribbon of build material adjacent to the object through the second portion of the extrusion area while moving the extruder along the object with the at least one actuator. |
| US09993956B2 |
Apparatus for thermally insulating a cylindrical barrel and monitoring the temperature thereof
An apparatus for thermally insulating a cylindrical barrel and monitoring the temperature thereof. The apparatus includes a plurality of flexible covers, each flexible cover circumnavigating the cylindrical barrel. Each of the plurality of flexible covers includes a temperature sensing element thereon. |
| US09993943B2 |
Processed slabs, and systems and methods related thereto
This document describes systems and processes for forming improved synthetic molded slabs suitable for use in living or working spaces (e.g., along a countertop, table, floor, or the like). |
| US09993937B2 |
Power tool
A power tool has a tool unit arranged between housing and housing cover. A stud bolt secured on the housing projects through a cover opening to the exterior. A support sleeve of the housing cover is provided with the cover opening and with a support surface for a fastening element screwed onto the stud bolt to secure the housing cover on the housing. The fastening element has a first section arranged at the cover exterior and delimited by a circumferential contour with flats. A maximum radial distance of the outer circumference of the support sleeve relative to the longitudinal center axis of the stud bolt at the support surface and at an adjoining first section of the support sleeve is at most as large as half the width across flats of the fastening element; a tool engaging the flats thus fits across the first section of the support sleeve. |
| US09993936B2 |
Chop saw with improved storage mode
A chop saw includes a base assembly and a saw assembly pivotally attached to the base assembly. The base assembly has a workpiece-supporting plane. The saw assembly has a blade and a motor driving the blade. A hinged connection between the base assembly and a saw assembly allows a user to rotate the saw assembly from a position where the plane of the blade extends through the workpiece-supporting plane to a position where the plane of the blade does not extend through the workpiece-supporting plane. In such position, the plane of blade may be substantially parallel to the workpiece-supporting plane. A switch or sensor may detect when the saw assembly is in the pivoted position so that the motor cannot be activated in such position. |
| US09993935B2 |
Crossclipping and bundling system and method for veneer packets
An apparatus for clipping ends of a book of sheets includes a first detector for detecting a first end of the book of sheets, a clipper positioning system and a first clipper including a knife. The clipper positioning system is adapted to automatically position the first clipper to a proposed first clipping position based on the detected first end of the book of sheets. A method of processing a plurality of sheets includes assembling the plurality of sheets into a book of sheets, detecting a first end of the book of sheets to propose a first position for clipping the book of sheets, positioning a first clipper based on the detected first end of the book of sheets, advancing the book of sheets to an infeed conveyor, detecting, the presence of the book of sheets in the infeed conveyor, advancing the book of sheets to the first clipper, clipping the first end of the book of sheets, and advancing the book of sheets from the first clipper. |
| US09993934B2 |
Liquid pressurization pump and systems with data storage
The invention features methods and apparatuses for determining replacement of components in liquid pressurization systems. A replaceable component for use in a pump of a liquid pressurization system includes a body portion and a data storage mechanism. The data storage mechanism is in physical contact with the body portion. The data storage mechanism is configured to communicate information to a reader of the liquid pressurization system. The information is usable to determine a condition of replacement (e.g., a remaining usable life) of the replaceable component. |
| US09993931B1 |
Razor docking and pivot
A shaving razor system includes a razor handle that docks with a razor cartridge. The handle is configured to dock with the razor cartridge using a single hook configured to mate with a cartridge tab. A central pushrod is mounted with a spring into the handle, and is configured to exert a pushing force on the mounted cartridge. To eject the cartridge, the single hook may be pushed to pivot to the side of the cartridge tab, and thereby release the cartridge by ejecting it with a spring loaded pushrod. |
| US09993924B2 |
Closed-loop control system for robotic operation
Example systems and methods may allow for closed-loop control of robotic operation. One example method includes receiving input data that identifies data sources to monitor and indicates adjustments to make in response to deviations by at least one of the data sources from at least one predicted state during subsequent execution of sequences of operations by robotic devices, receiving data streams from the data sources during execution of the sequences of operations by the robotic devices, identifying a deviation by one of the data sources from a predicted state for which the received input data indicates adjustments to the sequences of operations for the robotic devices, providing instructions to the robotic devices to execute the adjusted sequences of operations, and providing instructions to a second computing device to update a visual simulation of the robotic devices based on the adjusted sequences of operations. |
| US09993917B1 |
Handgrip for cleaning tool handles
A handgrip for the handle of a cleaning tool, and particularly a push broom, has a frustum shaped front section with side walls tapering downwardly from an outwardly extending upper lip portion to an opening at the terminus of the front section. The opening is shaped to retain the cleaning tool handle. A stock shaped rear section extends downwardly from the front section. The rear section has a curved top wall which merges smoothly downward into curved sidewalls and merges upwards to the lip portion. A curved notch is formed between the lip portion and the top wall. This configuration allows the user to maintain a comfortable grasp of the handgrip, eliminating the strain and risk of injury, while ensuring that the user's hand does not slip off the handle. |
| US09993916B2 |
Multi-purpose electric tool and control thereof
A multi-purpose electric tool has a motor, an impact block, a detection assembly configured to detect the position and the movement state of the impact block, and a main control circuit board configured to control whether the motor is powered off upon reaching a preset state according to the detected information of the detection assembly. In the control method, the detection assembly feeds back the detected information to the main control circuit board, if the impact block is not impacting reciprocatingly, the main control circuit board performs torque control according to whether the preset state is reached; and if the impact block is impacting reciprocatingly, the main control circuit board enables the motor to output in a normal mode which does not limiting the current. |
| US09993915B2 |
Rear handle
A tool includes a housing; a handle having first and second ends mounted thereto via respective mountings, and a biasing mechanism connected between the housing and handle. At least one mounting comprises parts mounted on the housing and end of the handle respectively, one part comprising a support, the other comprising a pin having a longitudinal axis, located in the support and capable of moving linearly or being rotated therein so the handle may move accordingly. The pin is in a passage of the support having larger length than width, allowing free movement either rotationally about its axis or linearly along the length for rotational or linear movement of the end of the handle. The width size varies along the passage, providing a convex surface along at least part of the length, engageable by the pin's side to enable pivoting within the passage about an axis parallel to the length. |
| US09993913B2 |
Clenching adapter for automatic nailers
A clenching adapter for use with automatic nailers tools is provided, which mounts to a nailer tool, and which extends behind a two-layer workpiece and curls the tip of a driven nail on the opposite side of the multiple-layer workpiece. The adapter includes a movable extension link that pivots on a proximal end, due to the action of an air cylinder actuator, and that pivoting motion causes an anvil mounted on its distal end to grasp the opposite (bottom) side of the workpiece, while also positioning the anvil to a location where it intercepts the nail that will be fired through the workpiece by the nailer tool. The anvil mechanism rotates from a “relaxed” position that fits within a gap in the boards of a workpiece, to an actuated “ready” position that receives and curls the nail, for clenching a multi-substrate workpiece. The actuations are automatically sequenced, in one embodiment. |
| US09993909B2 |
Method and system for manufacturing a grinding tool
A method for manufacturing a grinding tool which has a binding agent based on aromatic molecules includes cutting an abrasive material parent web with a laser device to form at least one inner contour of the grinding tool, and punching out an outer contour of the grinding tool from the abrasive material parent web. |
| US09993902B2 |
Machine tool
A machine tool includes a door used for opening and closing an opening of a frame and a tool exchanger arm used for exchanging a tool between a tool magazine and a main shaft. The machine tool further includes an interlocking mechanism provided between the door and the tool exchanger arm. The interlocking mechanism works in an interlocking relationship with tool exchanging operation by the tool exchanger arm to open and close the door. |
| US09993901B2 |
Clamping device
A boot band for fixing a boot that is mounted to a constant velocity universal joint is clamped. The boot band and the constant velocity universal joint are aligned in phase with each other in a circumferential direction. An axial position of a clamping portion is thereafter aligned with an axial position of the boot band. Then, the boot band is clamped by the clamping portion. |
| US09993898B2 |
Method and apparatus for preplacement of metal filler powder and flux powder for laser deposition
Forming respective packets (20, 21, 46, 50, 52, 70, 82, 84) of filler metal powder (24) and flux powder (26) for adjacent placement on a working surface (30) for laser deposition of the metal. Each packet may be formed of a sacrificial sleeve (22) or adjacently seamed sheets (72A-D), which may include flux fibers such as alumina, zirconia, basalt, or silica. A packet (56) of flux may be disposed centrally inside a packet (56) of metal or vice versa. A connected stack (70, 82, 84) of three packets (74A-C, 86A-C) may be formed by seaming (76A-B) four stacked sheets (72A-D) around common edges and filling the three resulting spaces between the sheets with a respective vertical sequence of metal/flux/metal or flux/metal/flux powders. Quilting and intermediate stitching may provide for precise control of material distribution and facilitate feeding of material. |
| US09993892B2 |
Welding method and apparatus
A method and an apparatus for joining first and second sheet metal parts includes a support where the first and second parts are positioned with an edge of the second part surrounded by a beading flange of the first part. A joining electrode is positioned adjacent to the beading flange and a counter-electrode is positioned adjacent to the second part. An abutment of a tong-type welding apparatus in placed in contact with the support, and the joining electrode and the abutment are urged toward one another to press or clamp the beading flange between the joining electrode and the support. An electric current is applied to the beading flange using the joining electrode and the counter-electrode to weld the parts together. |
| US09993890B2 |
System and method for data exchange and control with a wireless remote control for welding systems
A system and method for wirelessly controlling, monitoring, and updating various welding parameters from a remote device using a single remote control. The remote does not need to have the software to communicate with the welding-type system prior to initiating communications with the welding-type system. Rather, the welding-type system can provide a code download to the remote to perform an over-the-air programming of the remote to configure the remote to control the welding-type system. |
| US09993887B2 |
Method and apparatus for chamfering and deburring gear cut workpieces
The present disclosure relates to a method and to an apparatus for chamfering and deburring gear cut workpieces, especially of large-volume gear cut workpieces, using a deburring apparatus which is arranged on or at the cutting head of a gear cutting machine and which at least partially utilizes the machine axes of the gear cutting machine to chamfer and to deburr gear teeth along a tooth contour. |
| US09993879B1 |
Eddy current vibration absorber assembly for cutting tool
A cutting tool includes a cutting insert mounted to a head attached to a collar at a first end of the cutting tool. A shank is located at a second, opposite end of the cutting tool. A central cavity extends inwardly from the first end toward the shank. An eddy current vibration absorber assembly is disposed within the central cavity. The eddy current vibration absorber assembly includes an absorber mass made of an electrically conductive material, a magnetic material proximate the absorber mass, and a support member for supporting the absorber mass within the central cavity. The eddy current vibration absorber assembly is tuned by selectively adjusting a distance between the absorber mass and the magnetic material. |
| US09993877B2 |
Parting blade and blade holder configured for conveyance of pressurized coolant
A cutting tool assembly includes a parting blade and a blade holder for holding same. The cutting tool assembly is configured for conveying pressurized coolant via the holder to a cutting portion of the parting blade. The blade holder includes a deceleration chamber configured for reducing the impact of the pressurized coolant against the parting blade. |
| US09993876B2 |
Cutting tool holder with vibration damping weight assembly
A cutting tool holder has a holder body and a vibration damping weight assembly. The holder body has opposing first and second side surfaces and a top surface extending therebetween, and an insert mounting portion located at a front end of the holder body adjacent to the top surface. A weight aperture opens out to the first and second side surfaces and has an aperture inner surface. The weight assembly is located within the weight aperture, having a first and second weight portions, a damping ring located along the aperture inner surface, and an actuating member interfacing and urging the first and second weight portions away from one another, such that each weight portion presses against the damping ring within the weight aperture. |
| US09993874B2 |
Composition and processing of metallic interconnects for SOFC stacks
A chromium-iron interconnect includes at least one of Fe rich regions in the interconnect and carbon in the interconnect. |
| US09993872B2 |
Fluidized bed for degassing and heat treating powders
A method includes introducing metallic powder into a fluidizing chamber of a fluidized bed reactor. A fluidization gas is flowed into the fluidizing chamber. The metallic power becomes entrained in the flow of the fluidization gas. Adsorbed water is removed from the metallic powder by exposing the metallic powder to the fluidization gas for a duration of time and at a treatment temperature to cause the adsorbed water to be removed from the metallic powder. |
| US09993869B2 |
Directional solidification of polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) drill bits
A method of manufacturing a rotary drill bit includes forming a mold having an inner surface and an outer surface, locating a metal mandrel within the mold, packing the mold around at least part of the mandrel with particulate matrix-forming material and installing an insulating material around at least an upper portion of the outer surface. The material is infiltrated in a furnace with a molten binding alloy and the mold including the insulating material is removed from the furnace, directionally solidifying the material and binding alloy in portion of the bit, wherein the directional solidification proceeds from the lower portion of the outer surface in an upward and outward direction to form a solid infiltrated matrix bonded to the mandrel by cooling of the mold with the insulating material disposed around at least the upper portion of the outer surface of the mold. |
| US09993868B2 |
Control device for the advancing motion of a casting plunger
A device is provided for controlling the advancing movement of a casting plunger in a casting chamber of a cold-chamber die casting machine by way of an actuating signal, the advancing movement comprising a chamber filling movement phase from a partial filling position, with a partially filled casting chamber starting volume, to a full filling position, with a filled casting chamber remaining volume. In the device, a respective associated progression of an actuating signal is provided for different specified sets of values of a plurality of process parameters that influence the movement of the molten material in the casting chamber during the chamber filling movement phase, which progression is defined as the most suitable actuating signal progression for the particular set of parameter values. The device is designed to use the most suitable actuating signal progression in dependence on values of the process parameters pertaining at the beginning of a casting cycle for controlling the casting plunger advancing movement during the chamber filling movement phase. The plurality of process parameters include at least one casting chamber geometry parameter, at least one filling amount parameter, at least one casting mold parameter and/or at least one casting chamber temperature or molten material temperature parameter. |
| US09993866B2 |
Press forming apparatus and press forming method for a semi-solid metal material
Provided is a press forming apparatus for a semi-solid metal material, including: a slide caused to make a reciprocating linear motion; a sub-slide mounted so as to be movable relatively to the slide; a fluid pressure mechanism interposed between the slide and the sub-slide, which is capable of moving the sub-slide relatively to the slide by fluid pressure; an upper die mounted to the sub-slide; and a lower die. The press forming apparatus is configured to press-form the material while applying predetermined pressure to the material for a predetermined period by bringing, along with descent action of the slide, the upper die into contact with the material fed into the lower die, then stopping the slide at a predetermined position, and moving the upper die mounted to the sub-slide relatively to the slide by the fluid pressure mechanism under a state in which the slide is stopped. |
| US09993862B2 |
Fin manufacturing apparatus
A fin manufacturing apparatus includes an inter-row slit processing device having upper and lower blades with blade edges extending in a feed direction of a thin metal plate that serves as a material of a fin. The upper and lower blades are engaged with each other to form a perforated slit between rows on the fin. Each blade has a recess where the blade edge is partially recessed toward a ridge. Recess depth dimensions are smaller than a lapping amount of the blades when the blades are engaged with each other. At least one of the blades is slidable in a longitudinal direction of the blade edge to allow the recesses to be moved from overlapping positions to adjacent positions as viewed along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the blade edges when the blades are engaged with each other over the lapping amount. |
| US09993861B2 |
Roller hemming apparatus
A roller hemming apparatus is disclosed. A roller hemming apparatus for hemming an outer panel with respect to an inner panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a tool body mounted at a front end of an arm of a robot, a pre-hemming roller mounted to a front side of a mounting block, which is disposed at a lower portion of the tool body, through a first mounting bracket, a main hemming roller mounted to a rear side of the mounting block through a second mounting bracket, and at least one heater mounted at a lateral side of the mounting block and configured to heat a flange portion of the outer panel. |
| US09993857B2 |
Method for producing a sheet metal profile for a drawer pull-out guide and sheet metal profile produced thereby and drawer pull-out guide produced thereby
A method relates to producing a sheet metal profile, in particular consisting of steel, for a drawer pull-out guide having at least one web projecting laterally, in particular perpendicularly, from a flat surface of the sheet metal profile and extending in the longitudinal direction of the sheet metal profile. In a first method step, from at least one flat surface of a sheet metal billet, there is extruded at least one web projecting laterally, in particular perpendicularly, and extending in the longitudinal direction of the sheet metal billet. In at least one further method step, preferably in 10 to 15 further method steps, the at least one web is squeezed together, i.e. is reduced in width and increased in height. The invention further relates to a sheet metal profile produced in this manner and to a drawer pull-out guide that comprises such a profile. |
| US09993856B2 |
Method and system for the remediation of contaminated earth from hazardous substances in a batch-wise ex-situ on-site manner
Method and system for the remediation of contaminated earth from hazardous substances in a batch-wise ex-situ on site manner. At least one mobile earth moving equipment, at least one mobile tumbler reactor and at least one liquid-solid separator are organized at a location in the proximity of the contaminated site. Contaminated earth portions are collected from the contaminated site batch by batch in the mobile earth moving equipment and transferred to the mobile tumbler reactor at the location. The contaminated earth portions in the mobile tumbler reactor are dosed with cleaning agents and water washed in the reactor under agitation or tumbling. The mixture of water washed earth portions and wash water with cleaning agents transferred into the liquid-solid separator and the wash water with the cleaning agents is separated from the mixture in the separator. The cleaned earth portions in the separator are transferred into the earth moving equipment, transported back to the contaminated site and deposited at the contaminated site until the entire contaminated earth at the contaminated site is remedied. |
| US09993853B2 |
Method and apparatus for backside cleaning of substrates
Embodiments of methods and apparatus for removing particles from a surface of a substrate, such as from the backside of the substrate, are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for removing particles from a surface of a substrate includes: a substrate handler to expose the surface of the substrate; a particle separator to separate particles from the exposed surface of the substrate; a particle transporter to transport the separated particles; and a particle collector to collect the transported particles. |
| US09993841B2 |
Particulate film laminating system and particulate film laminating method using same
A particulate film laminating system includes: a nanoparticle generating chamber in which nanoparticles of a metal material are generated; a nanofiber generating chamber in which nanofibers of a resin material are generated; a laminating chamber in which the nanoparticles and the nanofibers are film-formed and laminated on a substrate; a nanoparticle film-forming region configured such that the nanoparticles are film-formed in the laminating chamber; a nanofiber film-forming region configured such that the nanofibers are film-formed in the laminating chamber; a moving unit which moves the substrate between the nanoparticle film-forming region and the nanofiber film-forming region; an exhaust unit which exhausts the laminating chamber; and a coolant-gas introduction unit which introduces coolant gas into each of the nanoparticle generating chamber and the nanofiber generating chamber. |
| US09993839B2 |
System and method for coating a substrate
A system and method for coating a substrate, the system including integrated powder coating material preparation and deposition of powder coating material onto a substrate. The system includes a feed input that processes the powder coating materials for use in a filament extension atomizer. The filament extension atomizer stretches fluid filaments of the powder coating material to form droplets of powder coating material. The droplets of powder coating material are partially cooled to prevent agglomeration and to form a powder coating material suitable for electrostatic deposition. The cooled powder coating material is electrostatically charged and directed onto the substrate surface, where it is deposited due to the electrostatic potential between the substrate and cooled droplets. The deposited powder coating material is then cured to the substrate to form a cohesive film of coating material across the substrate. |
| US09993836B2 |
Customizable apparatus and method for transporting and depositing fluids
A system for dosing one or more fluids on a substrate, the system comprising a rotating roll. The rotating roll has a central longitudinal axis, wherein the rotating roll rotates about the central longitudinal axis; an exterior surface defining an interior region and substantially surrounding the central longitudinal axis; and a vascular network configured for transporting the one or more fluids in a predetermined path from the interior region to the exterior surface of the rotating roll. |
| US09993835B2 |
Industrial coating application filter with pleated support
A filter for industrial coating filtration systems. The filter has a housing made up of a peripheral wall extending around the periphery. The housing is preferably made of a suitably rigid material. A preferably rigid support backing is mounted within the housing. The support backing has a planar configuration with openings formed through it so that gas can flow through without substantial resistance. The preferably planar sheet of which the support backing is made is pleated. The pleated support backing defines a series of panels, each of which is angled to a next adjacent panel. Filtration media is mounted to the support backing, end caps are attached to the ends of the support backing to maintain the pleated configuration, and the assembly is inserted into the housing, which can have end flaps to seal using tape or adhesive. |
| US09993831B2 |
Centrifuge and discharge port member of a centrifuge for power reduction
A rotating machine has a bowl that is rotatable about an axis to generate a cylindrical pool of a feed slurry. The bowl has a heavy phase discharge port and a base plate at one longitudinal end of the bowl. There is at least one outlet opening in the base plate and a liquid phase discharge port member positioned over the outlet opening. The liquid phase discharge port member includes at least one open straight channel having a longitudinal axis that extends at an acute angle relative to the base plate. The channel has an extension in the direction of the longitudinal axis of open straight channel. |
| US09993829B2 |
Plasma purification module
A plasma purification module is described. The plasma purification module includes a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, at least one long electrode and a catchment element. The first electrode plate is configured to be connected to a first electrode of a power supply. The second electrode plate is disposed over a surface of the first electrode plate, and is configured to be connected to a second electrode of the power supply, in which the second electrode plate has a channel. The long electrode is configured to form a discharge area. The long electrode is disposed on the surface of the first electrode plate and passes through the channel. The long electrode has a tip. The catchment element is disposed adjacent to the tip, and is configured to provide the discharge area with mist or water. |
| US09993827B2 |
Method for controlling a mineral material processing plant and a mineral material processing plant
A mineral material processing plant and a method for controlling thereof. The mineral material processing plant includes at least one motor, at least one actuator, a feeder device, a control system, and an arrangement for recognizing a need to switch off a standby-mode. The control system is configured to control the processing plant in such a way that the need to switch off a standby mode is automatically recognized. In response to the recognized need to switch off the standby mode the running speed of a motor or motors of the mineral material processing plant is raised from a stand-by speed (Rsb) to a process speed (Rf); and the feeding of mineral material into the processing plant is enabled. |
| US09993818B2 |
Valve which depressurises, and a valve system
A valve for a fluidic cartridge is provided. The valve comprises a valve cavity having first and second openings connected to first and second passageways, respectively; and a flexible membrane within the valve cavity, the flexible membrane having a first portion actuatable to seal against the first opening and a second portion actuatable to seal against the second opening; wherein the valve cavity is configured such that the first flexible membrane portion may be actuated independently of the second flexible membrane portion to enable the first opening to be sealed independently of the second. |
| US09993815B2 |
Method for protecting and unprotecting the fluid path in a controlled environment enclosure
A controlled environment enclosure comprises a robotic arm manipulation system used to protect and unprotect a fluid path within the controlled environment enclosure. The apparatus allows the fluid path to be protected against dangerous decontamination vapors and chemicals before the controlled environment enclosure is decontaminated, the method not requiring the use of gloves or other means that degrade the integrity of the controlled environment enclosure. The apparatus similarly allows the fluid path to be unprotected for use without the use of gloves, the method not requiring the use of gloves or other means that degrade the integrity of the controlled environment enclosure when decontamination is completed. The apparatus and method allow for the protecting, unprotecting and decontaminating sequences to be automated. |
| US09993804B2 |
Catalyst for exhaust gas purification
A catalyst for exhaust gas purification is described which includes a substrate and a catalyst coating layer provided on the substrate. The catalyst coating layer includes first and second metal oxide particles. The first metal oxide particles have a catalyst metal supported thereon, and the second metal oxide particles do not have a catalyst metal supported thereon. The first and second metal oxide particles have a specific particle size. This is because, when the sizes of the particles supporting the catalyst metal remain relatively large but the sizes of the particles not supporting a catalyst metal are minimized, it is possible to decrease the thickness of the catalyst coating layer while maintaining durability and improving gas diffusibility of the coating layer. Therefore, a thickness of the catalyst coating is decreased without decreasing durability, and the catalyst can exhibit high exhaust gas purification performance even under high load conditions. |
| US09993802B2 |
Shaped porous carbon products
Shaped porous carbon products and processes for preparing these products are provided. The shaped porous carbon products can be used, for example, as catalyst supports and adsorbents. Catalyst compositions including these shaped porous carbon products, processes of preparing the catalyst compositions, and various processes of using the shaped porous carbon products and catalyst compositions are also provided. |
| US09993800B2 |
Oxygen uptake compositions and preservation of oxygen perishable goods
The preservation or extension of the life of oxygen perishable products such as fresh or cooked meats; fresh vegetables and fruits; dried vegetables, fruits and meats; packaged pharmaceuticals or biologicals; open and enclosed marketing display cases of meats, fruits and vegetables; and packaging, warehousing and transportation of meats, fruits, and vegetables is obtained by subjecting such products to an atmosphere obtained from gas permeable packets of an oxygen scavenging composition comprising a sodium carbonate mineral and one or more carboxylic acids. When the environment surrounding the oxygen perishable product is subjected to the packets of gaseous permeable oxygen scavenging compositions, oxygen is taken in by the scavenging composition and also the presence of carbon dioxide in the surrounding environment is enhanced thereby minimizing or eliminating the effect the oxygen on the oxygen perishable products. |
| US09993798B2 |
Complex comprising oxidative dehydrogenation unit
Oxidative dehydrogenation of paraffins to olefins provides a lower energy route to produce olefins. Oxidative dehydrogenation processes may be integrated with a number of processes in a chemical plant such as polymerization processes, manufacture of glycols, and carboxylic acids and esters. Additionally, oxidative dehydrogenation processes can be integrated with the back end separation process of a conventional steam cracker to increase capacity at reduced cost. |
| US09993796B2 |
Reactor and agitator useful in a process for making 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene
Disclosed are a reactor and agitator useful in a high pressure process for making 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene (1233zd) from the reaction of 1,1,1,3,3-pentachloropropane (240fa) and HF, wherein the agitator includes one or more of the following design improvements: (a) double mechanical seals with an inert barrier fluid or a single seal; (b) ceramics on the rotating faces of the seal; (c) ceramics on the static faces of seal; (d) wetted o-rings constructed of spring-energized Teflon and PTFE wedge or dynamic o-ring designs; and (e) wetted metal surfaces of the agitator constructed of a corrosion resistant alloy. |
| US09993795B2 |
Glass lined metal micro-reactor
The invention discloses a glass lined metal micro-reactor with enhanced heat transfer efficiency in continuous flow operation. More particularly, the invention discloses a glass lined micro-reactor that can be reassembled. The invention provides a novel glass lined metal micro-reactor with micro fluidic channels that provide a better mixing, better heat exchange, and better temperature control. The micro fluidic channels machined in the glass lined metal reactor/mixer may be straight, curved, lamellar, flower shaped, or spiral such that the cross sectional area of the micro fluidic channel is configured to suit the cross sectional area of the micro-reactor. |
| US09993784B2 |
Device for preparing a solution, in particular in or on a dialysis machine
Devices for preparing a liquid solution are disclosed. The device includes a receptacle defining a cavity for receiving at least one active substance to be dissolved, at least one inlet leading into the cavity for feeding at least one solvent into the cavity, and at least one outlet leading out of the cavity for discharging the liquid solution including the at least one active substance and the at least one solvent from the cavity. The cavity or the receptacle may include a flexible outer shell for enclosing the cavity and an inner, preferably columnar, supporting element for stretching the flexible outer shell between at least two points, the supporting element comprising the at least one inlet at its first end and the at least one outlet at its second end and being enclosed by the flexible outer shell to provide an axially rigid cartridge that can be used in currently customary dialysis machines comprising cartridge connection systems, which can be produced at low cost. |
| US09993782B2 |
Stirrer installation aid and method for installing a stirrer element in a bioreactor
A bioreactor has a stirrer shaft that is driveable by a drive and on which a stirrer element is positioned. The position of the stirrer element is determined by a stirrer installation aid. The stirrer installation aid has a free end with an abutment surface on which the free end of the stirrer element abuts. The stirrer installation aid is designed as a sleeve that comprises a slot extending between the axial ends of the sleeve. The slot is delimited by opposite flanks of a wall, and the sleeve is placed on the stirrer shaft. The stirrer installation aid can be pulled off laterally from the stirrer shaft. A method for installing the stirrer element on the stirrer shaft arranged in the bioreactor also is provided. |
| US09993776B2 |
Separation membrane module, method for driving same, separation membrane element, thrust load maintaining member, and thrust load adjustment maintaining member
The present invention relates to a separation membrane module including: a pressure vessel; a plurality of separation membrane elements which are provided in the pressure vessel and each includes: a wound membrane body in which a separation membrane, a liquid-to-be-treated channel member and a permeated liquid channel member are spirally wound around a permeated liquid collection tube; and anti-telescoping plates disposed on both ends of the wound membrane body; and a thrust load holding member which holds a thrust load generated when water passes through the separation membrane elements, in which a thrust load adjustment holding member which is capable of adjusting the thrust load by adjusting a total length of the separation membrane elements in the pressure vessel, is provided on at least one end of the thrust load holding member in an axial direction of the separation membrane elements. |
| US09993775B2 |
Used oil recycling filtration assembly
A filtration system suitable for recovering base stock from used lubricating oil and other applications pass feedstock over nano-filtration membranes assembled as a stack of membranes all experiencing parallel flow. On exiting a first stack of membranes the feedstock passes through an opening in a pressure-sustaining separator plate to flow in the reverse direction past a second stack of membranes and subsequently establish a serpentine flow of feedstock through multiple stacks of membranes. The stacks of membranes all share a common pressure containment vessel. Pressure boosters installed in the flow-through openings of separator plates separating consecutive stacks can serve to restore lost pressure of the feedstock and maintain effective permeation of permeate through the membranes. A pressure control valve at the outlet to the permeate-receiving cavities of a stack can be used to adjust the trans-membrane pressure. |
| US09993772B2 |
Zoned exhaust system
A catalytic article having a flow-through substrate having an inlet, an outlet, and an axial length; an SCR zone containing a first SCR catalyst; and an oxidation zone containing (a) an ASC zone and a DOC zone or (b) a mixed ASC and DOC zone, where the oxidation zone contains an ammonia oxidation catalyst and a DOC catalyst, the SCR zone is positioned on the substrate from the inlet end and extends less than the axial length of the substrate from the inlet, the DOC zone or the mixed ASC and DOC zone is position on the substrate from the outlet end, and when the DOC zone is present, the ASC zone is located between the SCR zone and the DOC zone. In other catalytic articles, the ASC zone further comprises a DEC catalyst. Methods of using the catalytic articles in an SCR process, where the amount of ammonia slip is reduced, are also described. |
| US09993771B2 |
Emission treatment catalysts, systems and methods
Zoned diesel oxidation catalysts containing a higher precious metal loading in the inlet zone that the outlet zone and an equal or shorter length inlet zone are described. Emission treatment systems and methods of remediating nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter, and gaseous hydrocarbons using zoned diesel oxidation catalysts are also described. |
| US09993770B2 |
Process and apparatus for capturing gaseous ammonia
A method and system for collecting gaseous nitrogen compounds into an aqueous solution are provided. The method enables the combination of gaseous sulfur and nitrogen compounds in the aqueous solution to generate ammonium compound components, to include ammonium sulfate. Sulfur may be pressure injected into the solution as gaseous sulfur dioxide. Optionally, carbon may be introduced into the solution as gaseous carbon dioxide. The sulfur may be earlier sourced by a burning of a sulfurous solid. The pH of the solution may be monitored and the introduction of ammonia, carbon and/or sulfur may be halted or constrained while the pH of the solution is measured outside of specified range. The solution may be allowed to age to permit a mix of compounds of ammonium carbonate, ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium carbomate to restabilize and thereby encourage a renewed surge of ammonium sulfate generation. |
| US09993769B2 |
Method and system for gas scrubbing of aerosol-containing process gases
The invention relates to a method and to a system for gas scrubbing of aerosol-containing process gases using an amine-containing solvent as scrubbing agent, which is brought into contact with the process gas in an absorber column (9) and which is regenerated in a desorber column (13) and after cooling is delivered to the absorber column (9) again. The water vapor concentration of the process gas which is not saturated with water vapor is increased with water before the gas scrubbing in the absorber column (9), preferably to a degree of saturation of >0.8, such that water is condensed out of the gas phase on aerosol particles contained in the process gas, and in a following method step the aerosol particles which have grown in size are precipitated out of the process gas before the gas scrubbing. |
| US09993768B2 |
Method and system for removing carbon dioxide from hydrocarbons
The present disclosure relates to a method for removing carbon dioxide from hydrocarbons, the method comprising the steps of: (a) contacting a feed stream comprising hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide with one or more gas-separation membranes to produce a hydrocarbon-rich retentate gas stream and a permeate gas stream rich in carbon dioxide, the retentate gas stream containing less carbon dioxide relative to the feed stream; and (b) passing at least one of the retentate gas stream or the permeate gas stream through an absorption unit to produce a hydrocarbon-rich gas phase and a liquid absorbent phase containing said carbon dioxide. The present disclosure also relates to a system for doing the same. |
| US09993767B2 |
CO2 recovery device and CO2 recovery method
A CO2 recovery device includes: a CO2 absorption tower in which CO2 included in an exhaust gas is absorbed by a CO2 absorption liquid; and a CO2 absorption liquid regeneration tower that heats and regenerates the CO2 absorption liquid that has absorbed CO2. The CO2 absorption liquid regeneration tower includes: a main body part in which the CO2 absorption liquid is temporarily stored; a boot part provided downward from a tank end of the main body part, having a relatively smaller capacity than the main body part; a flowmeter provided to the boot part, and measuring the liquid surface level of the CO2 absorption liquid that changes between the main body part and the boot part; and a control device controlling the liquid surface level of the CO2 absorption liquid between the main body part and the boot part on the basis of the measurement result of the flowmeter. |
| US09993766B2 |
Carbon dioxide capture apparatus and method of capturing carbon dioxide
A carbon dioxide capture apparatus according to an embodiment includes an absorber and a stripper. The liquid level of the absorbing liquid within the absorber is measured by an absorber level gauge. A regulating liquid that contains water and is used to control the proportion of water contained in the absorbing liquid is stored in a regulating liquid tank. The flow rate of the regulating liquid to be supplied from the regulating liquid tank to the absorber or the stripper is controlled by a regulating liquid control valve. A controller controls the opening degree of the regulating liquid control valve based on the liquid level of the absorbing liquid measured by the absorber level gauge. |
| US09993756B2 |
Filter with barb-shaped bayonet receptacle and filter element
The invention relates to a filter (10) having at least a first bayonet joint (22). The first bayonet joint (22) has a first bayonet slotted guide (26) with two locking positions that are axially spaced apart from one another for a first bayonet projection (24) of the first bayonet joint (22). By rotating a filter part for releasing the first bayonet joint (22), the first bayonet projection (24) may be moved from the second locking position into the first locking position. The filter (10) preferably has a second bayonet joint (28). The second bayonet joint (28) is preferably embodied such that, by further rotation in the same direction of rotation, it is released in that a second bayonet projection (30) is moved out of a third locking position of a second bayonet slotted guide (32) of the second bayonet joint (28) after the first bayonet projection (24) has been stopped in the first locking position. The second locking position is preferably embodied axially offset from the first locking position such that when the first bayonet projection (24) is moved from the second locking position into the first locking position, there is an increase in the volume of the filter (10) in which medium of the filter (10) may be received. |
| US09993754B2 |
Fluid contamination prevention system
The disclosed subject matter is directed to a fluid treating system comprising a housing configured with at least one fluid inlet port and at least one fluid outlet port, with at least one fluid treating chamber disposed between and being in flow communication with the at least one fluid inlet port and at least one fluid outlet port, and at least one intermediate chamber disposed between at least one inlet port and at least one of the fluid treating chamber and outlet port. The at least one intermediate chamber is vented to the atmosphere or coupleable to a vacuum source. |
| US09993753B2 |
High-efficiency candle-type device for filtering ballast water having high-density filter structure
A device for filtering ballast water which performs filtering by installing a filter element having a conical shape in a concentric circle direction inside the device for filtering ballast water that accommodates a filter portion, and introducing ballast water from a lower end of the device for filtering and passing same through the filter element inside the device for filtering, and for discharging backwash water containing foreign substances that are inside a filter by way of differential pressure, which is created by a driving portion communicating with a filter element by rotating a suction portion that is located on a lower end of the device for filtering. Particularly, the present invention relates to a high-efficiency candle-type device for filtering ballast water having a high-density filter structure, wherein the driving portion is positioned on a lower portion of a housing so that more filter elements can be accommodated inside the housing. |
| US09993751B2 |
Screen filter module for alternating flow filtration
Improved screen filter modules, related compartmentalized filtration modules, and related filtration processes, suitable for filtering fluid to eliminate suspended particulate matter, such as living cells or microcarriers anchoring living cells, or to separate particulate matter based on size. The improvement is the presence of a barrier that channels redirected filtrate to the portion of the filter most susceptible to clogging by the particulate matter and induces flow patterns that act against clogging. |
| US09993750B2 |
Clog-resistant serpentine pillar filters and bladed loading structures for microfluidics
Clog-resistant serpentine crossflow filters and blade loading structures for micro- and nano-fluidics are provided. In one aspect, a filter includes: a substrate; and at least one layer of pillars on the substrate, wherein the pillars are arranged adjacent to one another and groups of the pillars alternate between being perpendicular and parallel to a direction of fluid flow through the filter giving the filter a serpentine configuration having at least one downstream catch. A method of forming the filter as well as a system employing the filter in conjunction with a pillar sorting array and optionally a staged blade structure are also provided. |
| US09993748B2 |
Centrifuge clip and method
A clip of the present application generally comprises a first clip member, a second clip member, and a retention feature. The first clip member and the second clip member are coupled together and capable of being placed in at least two positions. In the first position, the clip is capable of receiving a bag containing a fluid, and, in the second position, the bag is capable of being held between the first and second clip members. While the clip is holding the bag, two or more pockets are formed in the bag, and the fluid is generally restricted or prohibited from transferring from one pocket to another pocket while the clip is in this position. A retention feature retains the clip, which is holding a bag, to a centrifuge receptacle and allows the clip to be placed in a predetermined position on the centrifuge receptacle. |
| US09993746B2 |
Sulfur seal device
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a sulfur trap comprising an inlet, a first chamber, a divider, a second chamber, an outlet, and a float assembly. The float assembly may have many different configurations, but generally comprises a float and plug, is configured to float within liquid sulfur, and is operatively coupled to a seal seat in the divider for sealing and unsealing the first chamber from the second chamber. Generally, only liquid sulfur is allowed to pass from the first chamber into the second chamber. However, the sulfur trap may be configured to allow for pressure relief, such that during an overpressure event the plug and seal seat disengage and allow the liquid-gas mixture to flow into the second chamber to prevent damage within the system. In some embodiments a filter and/or the flow of liquid sulfur is directed to collect debris from the liquid sulfur. |
| US09993741B2 |
System and method to refurbish the non-convective zone in a salinity gradient solar pond
A Salinity Gradient Solar Pond (SGSP) has saturated salt water in the bottom zone of the pond and nearly fresh water at the top zone, with a gradient zone between the top and bottom. Due to this salinity stratification the upward diffusion of salt is a natural consequence in SGSP's. Controlling the salinity gradient in SGSP systems is vital to their reliable operation. The method for controlling the salinity gradient disclosed in this application, coined the “Pond Rolling Method” by the authors, rapidly drains the pond's non-gradient zones, refurbishes the gradient, and restores the non-gradient zones of the SGSP system, in a manner that minimizes land use, water and heat loss. The salt in the pond is allowed to diffuse upward over time and, on condition as needed to restore the gradient, the Pond Rolling Method is used to completely rebuild the gradient and the SGSP zones. |
| US09993739B2 |
Transformable toy robot
A system for interconnecting discrete rigid member mating components creates different stable, freestanding three-dimensional figures such as robots. The mating components are positioned in tandem employ an elastic element through bores and each mating component has at least one slot that is aligned with a corresponding slot formed on adjacent mating component or body. The arrangement of the slots and elastic element permits each mating components to be maneuvered onto an adjacent mating component and retains its position without the use of hinges or other securing devices. A reconfigurable toy is constructed by interconnecting a plurality of different sized mating components. The mating components can thus be rearranged to form different-shaped figures including a robot that is reversibly transformable between a first configuration, which can comprise a myriad of forms, and a second configuration that is a cube. |
| US09993738B2 |
Yoyo with propeller blades
In an example embodiment, a yoyo includes an axle, a first body and a second body coupled to the axle, and a string windable about the axle within a gap between the first body and the second body. The first body includes an outer rim and multiple propeller blades that extend inward from the outer rim toward the axle. The gap between the first body and the second body is smaller than three times a diameter of the string. A diameter of the axle is no larger than one sixth of the diameter of the first or second outer rim. An aggregate mass of the first and second outer rims is at least one quarter of an aggregate mass of the yoyo, string excluded. |
| US09993733B2 |
Infrared reflective device interactive projection effect system
Some embodiments herein include systems, methods, and software for IR object identification and motion detection. Consumers may project an interactive projection surface on the wall or floor of any room, and when IR object motion is detected, the interactive projection may update in response to the motion. A newly introduced IR object may be identified, and an effect specific to the IR object may be projected into the IR object. |
| US09993730B2 |
Methodology for equalizing systemic latencies in television reception in connection with games of skill played in connection with live television programming
A method of and system for handling latency issues encountered in producing real-time entertainment such as games of skill synchronized with live or taped televised events is described herein. There are multiple situations that are dealt with regarding latencies in receiving a television signal with respect to real-time entertainment based on the unfolding games played along with the telecasts. Systemic delays, arbitrarily imposed delays of a broadcast signal and variances in the precise broadcast times of taped television programs have to be equalized so as to provide fair entertainment. |
| US09993727B2 |
Method and system for providing online flash game
The present invention relates to an online flash game system and method, a flash game web page providing method, a web server for providing web pages for flash game execution, and a storage medium for recording method programs. When a flash game execution is selected, a skin flash module performs a skin flash, which is a frame on a flash game screen, on a user terminal screen, and controls a UI flash module and a game contents flash module. The skin flash module displays the skin flash, which is a frame on the flash game screen, on the user terminal screen, and controls the UI flash module and the game contents flash module. |
| US09993719B2 |
Card handling devices and related assemblies and components
Card handling devices may include a card shuffling apparatus and a card output portion having a card buffer area positioned at an interface of the card shuffling apparatus and the card output portion. The card output portion may be configured to move relative to the card shuffling apparatus and alter the orientation of the card buffer area. Card handling devices having a substantially flat card output area may include an interface portion having an at least substantially flat draw surface. The substantially flat card output area may permit playing cards to be drawn from an outlet of the substantially flat card output area in a plurality of at least substantially horizontal directions. Methods of shuffling playing cards may include altering an orientation of a card buffer area and inserting cards into the card buffer area at both a top and a bottom of a group of cards within the card buffer area. |
| US09993715B2 |
Instructional surface with haptic and optical elements
An exercise system comprising: an exercise mat; a plurality of sensors integrated into the exercise mat, each of the sensors configured to sense when a force is applied to a respective portion of the exercise mat; a plurality of displays coupled to the exercise mat and configured to display indications corresponding to desired locations for body parts of a user in accordance with an exercise routine; at least one processor disposed in communication with the plurality of sensors and the plurality of displays; and memory storing at least one exercise routine for use with the exercise mat and instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, configures the exercise system to: display on one or more of the displays indications corresponding to desired locations of a user's body part in accordance with a form of one of the exercise routines stored in memory; sense by one or more of the sensors an application of force to the exercise mat; determine that a location of the sensed application of force is different than a display location of at least one of the indications; and display on one or more of the displays at least one marker identifying a direction from the location of the sensed application of force to the display location of the at least one of the indications. |
| US09993713B2 |
Enhanced golf simulation system
A green simulation apparatus having a configurable upper surface with a changeable contour may comprise a covering forming the upper surface and a covering support assembly configured to support the covering. The support assembly may comprise a plurality of movable positioning elements having the covering resting thereon and positioned in an array extending in a reference plane and movable along axes extending substantially perpendicular to the reference plane. The support assembly may comprise a movement actuator configured to move at least one of the positioning elements independently of other positioning elements in the array. The plurality of positioning elements may include active positioning elements and passive positioning elements, with the active positioning elements being associated with a movement actuator and the passive positioning elements not being associated with a movement actuator. |
| US09993709B2 |
Wrist positioning training aid
An athletic training device for selectively and removably urging a user's limbs together is provided. The device includes two arm/leg cuffs, each having a flexible band with securing means for removably securing the band to a user's limb. Extending from each band is a spacer component having a sidewall and a top wall. Located on or within the top wall is a magnet. The magnets in each cuff are configured with opposing polarity so that the top walls of each cuff are urged together when placed in close proximity to one another. The device can be used by securing each cuff around a user's arms/legs. When the user places his/her arms/legs in close proximity to one another, the magnets urge the cuffs in an attached arrangement and the user can only separate his/her arms/legs by intentionally applying a separating force sufficient to overcome the force of the magnets. |
| US09993707B2 |
Hockey-stick blade with reinforcing frame
A hockey-stick blade includes a reinforcing frame that provides improved strength, rigidity, and impact resistance. The reinforcing frame may be continuous along the top, bottom, and toe edges of the hockey-stick blade. The reinforcing frame optionally is a tubular structure made of fiber-reinforced epoxy resin. The interior of the reinforcing frame may include a core made of a resilient material, such as an expandable syntactic foam. Fiber reinforcement may also be included in the frame's construction. |
| US09993706B2 |
Golf tee with spark induction coating and method for improving golf performance
A golf tee having a contact alert coating cooperates with a golf ball and a golf club to provide a novel training aid that is economical, compact, and encourages proper golfing form. The golf tee has a golf tee body with a top plate, top wall and side walls. The top plate is fixedly attached to a shaft which terminates into a point that is inserted into a ground surface when a ball is placed on the top plate. A contact alert coating is coated on at least an upper portion of the golf tee body. The contact alert coating is composed of a material that generates a spark and, preferably, an audible sound when a golf club head strikes the ball and strikes the contact alert coating of the golf tee at the coating/golf tee interface. Generation of the spark and, preferably, the audible sound provides an alert that immediately informs the user whether the user's golf swing has been properly executed. |
| US09993700B2 |
Golf club head
Golf club heads are described herein, and in one embodiment including a body with an exterior surface defining a first body volume of at least about 400 cm3. The body has a bottom portion, a top portion, a front portion, and a back portion. A face positioned at the front portion of the body and is configured to receive an impact. A top portion silhouette profile located along a perimeter of the top portion is further described. The top portion silhouette profile defines the outer bounds of the top portion in an X-direction and Y-direction. At least one indentation can be located on the bottom portion below the crown silhouette profile. The removal of the at least one indentation from the bottom portion can create a second body volume that is at least 12 cm3 larger than the first body volume. |
| US09993695B2 |
Golf ball manufacturing method
A method of manufacturing golf balls having a core and a cover of at least one layer encasing the core includes, when molding the cover, blending a thermal antioxidant into the cover stock in a plurality of divided portions. This method is able to minimize deterioration and discoloration of the cover stock, enabling golf balls of stable quality to be obtained. In addition, it is able to facilitate the use of reclaimed material, enabling environmentally and economically efficient production to be carried out. |
| US09993694B1 |
Recreational device with rotor assembly
Recreational footballs with rotor assemblies are provided herein. An example recreational device includes a shell forming a prolate spheroid frame, a shaft disposed within the prolate spheroid frame and located along a central axis defined by the prolate spheroid frame, and one or more fan assemblies each having a plurality of blades, the one or more fan assemblies rotating around or in conjunction with the shaft, the one or more fan assemblies changing at least one aerodynamic aspect of flight of the recreational device when air passes through the prolate spheroid frame and across the plurality of blades of the one or more fan assemblies as the recreational device spirals during flight. |
| US09993690B2 |
Golf ball dimple plan shapes and methods of generating same
The present invention is directed to golf balls having improved aerodynamic performance due, at least in part, to the selection of the plan shapes of the dimples thereon. In particular, the present invention is directed to a golf ball that includes at least a portion of its dimples having a plan shape defined by low frequency periodic functions along a closed simple path. In addition, the present invention provides methods for designing dimples having a plan shape defined by a low frequency periodic function along a closed simple path. |
| US09993685B2 |
Push-up device and method of use
A push-up device and method of use has been disclosed that employs the use of a spherical member that makes contact with the ground surface and supports the weight of a user when the user grasps the handle members of the push-up device and/or rests thereon. The user may balance his or her body on the push-up device while exercising. The push-up device is operable to permit the push-up device to move or translate in various directions or angles when the user is resting thereon by rotating the spherical member omni-directionally. As such, not only may a user stimulate chest and/or other upper-body muscles, but the user may also stimulate abdominals or other lower-body muscles, permitting the user to stimulate a more variety of his or her muscles through balancing himself or herself on the push-up device through the curved surface of the spherical member. |
| US09993684B2 |
Exercise apparatus with travel path constraining unit
An exercise apparatus includes a base frame, a swing unit including a pair of swing arms pivotally mounted at the base frame, a pedal unit pivotally mounted at the swing unit, a travel path constraining unit including a pivot axle pivotally connected to the base frame, a pair of upper crank arms respectively affixed to two opposite ends of the pivot axle in reverse directions and a pair of links respectively pivotally connected between the upper crank arms and the swing arms for limiting the swinging range of the swing unit, a first damping unit for providing a damping resistance to the pedal unit, and a second damping unit for providing a damping resistance to the swing arms. |
| US09993683B2 |
Upper body exercise equipment with lower body pedals and methods of using the same
A physical exercise apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a frame, a seat, a pair of movable arms, and a pair of cycling foot pedals. The seat may be supported by the frame and configured to support a user in an at least partially supine position. The pair of movable arms may be movably coupled to a first portion of the frame and coupled with a common, linearly movable resistance load. The first portion of the frame may be stationary with respect to the seat. The pair of cycling foot pedals may be movably coupled to a second portion of the frame and independently movable from the pair of movable arms so that the user can cycle the pair of cycling foot pedals while separately engaging the pair of movable arms. |
| US09993682B2 |
Stair exerciser apparatus
A stair exerciser apparatus includes a frame having a pair of inclined supports, a drive mechanism, a plurality of stairs and an electromagnetic resistance device. The stairs are coupled to the drive mechanism for traveling around the pair of inclined supports. The electromagnetic resistance device is coupled to the drive mechanism to control the running speed of the stairs. The electromagnetic resistance device has a flywheel, an electromagnet and a brake unit. The electromagnet is coupled to the brake unit for controlling rotation resistance of the flywheel. The brake unit has a brake block for stopping the flywheel to stop the stairs. The brake unit is pivotally rotatable between a non-braking position where the brake block is pulled away from the flywheel when the electromagnet is energized and a braking position where the brake block is pulled to stop the flywheel when the electromagnet is loss of power. |
| US09993681B2 |
Core training bench
An improved exercise bench for effectively and efficiently training the core portion of the user's body. The core training bench comprises a bench having an upper section and a separate lower section, a frame for supporting the bench above a surface, leg members interconnecting the frame and the bench and pivoting mechanisms interconnecting the leg members and the bench or the frame to allow the sections of the bench to pivot or tilt relative to the leg members. In the preferred embodiment, the upper section is able to pivot independent of the pivoting lower section so the user can place the bench in any one of a plurality of different tilt positions so he or she may selectively exercise different muscle groups at his or her core. The core training bench can include an oblique stand, grip bar, tension cable hooks and/or a removable section for an AB ball. |
| US09993680B2 |
Exercise device
An exercise device with a pair of upper links coupled to a frame and a pair of lower links pivotally and respectively coupled to the upper links is provided. A pedal is received on a distal end of each of the lower links. A transfer system between the pair of upper links may include a first and a second pushrod, each with a first end pivotally coupled to each respective upper link and a second end opposite to the first end. A first and a second damper arm, each pivotally coupled to the frame, may be included, each damper arm receiving a respective pushrod. An actuator may be coupled to the first damper arm and the second damper arm, thus providing movement of the first and second pushrods to alter a resting position of the first and second upper leg links with respect to the frame. |
| US09993677B2 |
Jungle gym joint and jungle gym
A jungle gym joint has a joint main body including joint shafts to which pipes are connected and rotary members. The pipe is connected to one end and a folding portion is formed at the other end of the rotary member, the folding member being formed by a flat plate portion being held in a bifurcate portion together with the joint main body. A cover member including engaging projections on an inner circumferential surface is provided on an outer circumference of the folding portion. The cover member is guided to move back and forth in an axial direction by the engaging projections being brought into engagement with guide grooves. The folding portion is restricted from being folded with the cover member staying in an advanced end position while the restriction of folding thereof can be released with the cover member staying in a withdrawal end position. |
| US09993669B2 |
D-ring keeper assembly
A D-ring keeper assembly is provided. The D-ring keeper assembly includes a D-ring and a base member. The D-ring has a mid-portion, a first end portion and a second end portion. The mid-portion is curved in generally a C-shape. The D-ring further has at least one post that extends between the first and second end portions. The base member is configured and arranged to be coupled to a webbing. The at least one post of the D-ring is pivotally in communication with the base member. The base member further includes at least one locking tab that is configured and arranged to lock the position of the D-ring in relation to the base member. |
| US09993668B2 |
Face mask assembly
A face mask is configured to be worn on a wearer's head and to cover the wearer's nose and mouth. The face mask includes a mask body having apertures, an inhalation port positioned within one of the apertures of the mask body, an exhalation valve positioned within a second one of the apertures of the mask body, a harness assembly configured to extend about a wearer's head wherein the harness assembly includes a first strap, a strap retainer positioned on the mask body and disposed over the exhalation valve, the strap retainer configured to receive the first strap; and a valve protector positioned between the first strap and the exhalation valve. |
| US09993665B2 |
Treatment instrument, distal side probe unit, and proximal side probe unit
A treatment instrument includes: a proximal side probe transmits ultrasonic vibration from its proximal end to its distal end; a distal side probe configured to transmit the ultrasonic vibration from its proximal end to a treatment portion at its distal end; and a holding portion which holds a state where the proximal end of the distal side probe is into collision with the distal end of the proximal side probe, and a state where vibration is transmittable from the proximal end of the proximal side probe to the distal end of the distal side probe. |
| US09993659B2 |
Low level light therapy for enhancement of neurologic function by altering axonal transport rate
Methods of altering the rate of axonal transport are provided in several embodiments. Some embodiments alter axonal transport in a patient in need of an enhancement of axonal transport to alleviate symptoms of a disease or injury. The methods further include delivering electromagnetic radiation to at least one portion of the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nervous system of a patient sufficient to effect an alteration in axonal transport in the patient. |
| US09993658B2 |
Light applicators, systems and methods
The present invention relates to light applicators, systems comprising light applicators, and methods for their use. One aspect of the invention provides a light applicator configured for contacting a portion of a subject's body surface and controllably applying light irradiation thereto. The light applicator comprises a housing, the housing comprising a treatment plate for contacting the portion of the subject's body surface and having one or more windows. One or more light emitters are disposed inside the light applicator and projecting toward the corresponding one or more windows of the treatment plate. A heat spreader plate is disposed inside the light applicator. One or more heat conducting members thermally connect the treatment plate to the heat spreader plate. The heat spreader plate is in physical contact with the one or more light emitters, thereby creating a heat conduction path from the one or more light emitters to the heat spreader plate, and to the treatment plate via the one or more heat conducting members. |
| US09993656B2 |
Magnetic neural stimulator and method of activation of neural tissue with same
An electromagnetic neural stimulation device includes a biocompatible shaft and one or more microcoil systems inside the shaft. A microcoil system includes a microcoil (driven externally) that is complemented with a metallic element juxtaposed against the microcoil as a shield to non-uniformly affect spatial distribution of the strength of the magnetic field generated by the microcoil. The microcoil system is oriented at a position inside the shaft that is predetermined to place the microcoil system in the vicinity of target neurons once the shaft is inserted into the biological tissue. The angular orientation of the microcoil system is optionally varied to selectively stimulate different regions of the neural network. |
| US09993650B2 |
Hermetic filter feedthrough including MLCC-type capacitors for use with an active implantable medical device
A filter feedthrough is described. The filter feedthrough includes a conductive ferrule supporting a dielectric substrate having a body fluid side and a device side. At least one via hole provided with a conductive fill is disposed through the dielectric substrate from the body fluid side to the device side. At least one MLCC-type capacitor is supported by the dielectric substrate. A first circuit trace couples from an active metallization connected to the active electrode plates of the capacitor to conductive fill in the via hole. A second circuit trace couples from the ground electrode plate of the capacitor to a metallization contacting an outer surface of the dielectric substrate. Then, a conductive material couples from the ground metallization to the ferrule to thereby electrically couple the capacitor to the ferrule. |
| US09993647B2 |
Variable frequency stimulation therapy method
The disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation therapy method. The method includes applying a variable frequency stimulation pulse to target nerve tissue of the patient suffering from dysfunction of a nerve circuit in the brain selected from the group consisting of motor circuit, associative circuit and limbic circuit, wherein the variable frequency stimulation pulse comprises at least two kinds of electrical stimulation pulse trains at different frequencies; and each of the at least two kinds of alternate electrical stimulation pulse trains in each of the plurality of pulse train periods has a duration in a range from about 0.1 seconds to about 60 minutes. The target nerve tissue is a part of the nerve circuit. The different frequencies of the electrical stimulation pulse trains are in a range from about 10 Hz to about 250 Hz. |
| US09993643B2 |
Electrical stimulation device having multiple stimulation channels
An implantable electrical stimulation device configured to treat multiple pelvic conditions of a patient includes a pulse generator, memory, first and second electrode leads comprising one or more electrodes, a switch and a controller. The switch has a first state, in which the first electrode lead is electrically coupled to the pulse generator, and a second state, in which the second electrode lead is electrically coupled to the pulse generator. The controller includes at least one processor that is configured to execute at least one stimulation program stored in the memory. The controller is also configured to selectively set the switch in the first or second state. Electrical stimulation pulses generated by the pulse generator responsive to the execution of the stimulation program are delivered to the first or second electrode lead depending on the state of the switch. |
| US09993638B2 |
Devices, systems and methods to reduce coupling of a shield and a conductor within an implantable medical lead
Conductors within an implantable medical lead that carry stimulation signal signals are at least partially embedded within a lead body of the medical lead over at least a portion of the length of the conductors while being surrounded by a radio frequency (RF) shield. A space between the shield and the conductors is filled by the presence of the lead body material such that body fluids that infiltrate the lead over time cannot pool in the space between the shield and the conductors. The dielectric properties of the lead body are retained and the capacitive coupling between the shield and the conductors continues to be inhibited such that current induced on the shield is inhibited from being channeled onto the conductors. Heating at the electrodes of the medical lead is prevented from becoming excessive. |
| US09993637B2 |
Electrical stimulation lead with junction and methods of making and using
A lead arrangement includes a plurality of proximal leads, a distal lead, and a junction electrically and mechanically coupling the plurality of proximal leads to the at least one distal lead. Each proximal lead has a proximal end and a distal end and includes conductive contacts disposed along the proximal end and conductive wires coupled to the conductive contacts and extending to the distal end of the proximal lead. Each distal lead has a proximal end and a distal end and includes electrodes disposed along the distal end and conductive wires coupled to the electrodes and extending to the proximal end of the distal lead. The junction includes conductive tabs and a non-conductive material encapsulating the conductive tabs. The conductive wires of the at least one distal lead and the conductive wires of the plurality of proximal leads are attached to the conductive tabs of the junction. |
| US09993636B2 |
Sterility retaining medical connector assembly and method
A medical connector assembly for establishing a fluid connection between a first medical device and a second medical device includes a multi-use connector and a plurality of single-use connectors connected in series. The multi-use connector has a proximal end opposite a distal end along a longitudinal length thereof. The plurality of single-use connectors each have a proximal end opposite a distal end along a longitudinal length thereof. The distal end of the multi-use connector is releasably connected to the proximal end of a first of the serially-connected single-use connectors. When a second of the serially-connected single-use connectors is disconnected from the first single-use connector, the first single-use connector remains connected to the multi-use medical connector as a sterility retaining cover. |
| US09993633B2 |
Graft-catheter vascular access system
A vascular access device, for implantation at least partially below the skin of a patient to provide an arteriovenous fistula, includes a graft portion coupled to a catheter portion. The graft portion is sutured to an opening in an artery while the catheter portion is inserted into a vein so that its end lies within the vein downstream from the point of entry into the vein. The device may be comprised of ePTFE with an outer polyurethane coating or the graft portion may comprise ePTFE with an outer polyurethane coating and the catheter portion may comprise polyurethane. There may also be an inner polyurethane coating. Alternatively, the device may be comprised entirely of polyurethane. |
| US09993631B2 |
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt with pressure responsive element
A ventriculoperitoneal shunt includes a proximal catheter, a distal catheter, a shunt valve operably coupling the proximal catheter to the distal catheter, and a contrast container containing contrast material configured to change acoustic impedance proportionally to a change in pressure applied to the contrast container. |
| US09993629B2 |
Balloon coating method and balloon coating apparatus
A balloon coating method and apparatus are disclosed which can perform coating while freely controlling, for example, the thickness of a coating layer and/or the morphological form of a drug. The balloon coating method and the balloon coating apparatus are for forming a coating layer on a surface of a balloon. The balloon coating method includes a pulling step of pulling the balloon in the direction of an axis of the balloon to thereby straighten a bend of the balloon, and a coating step of rotating the balloon about the axis of the balloon, with the balloon maintained in the bend-straightened state, and coating an outer surface of the balloon with a coating liquid containing a drug. |
| US09993628B2 |
Balloon catheter junction
A balloon catheter junction includes a distal junction on a distal end of a balloon. The junction includes an inner member, a balloon inner sleeve encompassing the inner member and bonded to an interior of a mid-shaft, and a balloon distal leg bonded to an exterior of the mid-shaft. A connection medium is disposed between the balloon inner sleeve and the inner member. |
| US09993626B2 |
Medical balloon assembly and method of making a medical balloon
A medical balloon includes an outer layer and an inner layer. The outer layer has a surface texture or formation such as a scoring element. The inner layer is made of a reflow material which during production of the balloon from a raw tubing will soften and flow into internal recesses in the outer layer, thereby filling these recesses and providing support to the outer layer formations so as to avoid flattening of these formations during use of the balloon. The balloon can be manufactured in a single formation step from a raw tubing having the outer and inner reflow layer coextruded. |
| US09993618B2 |
Method of coupling a catheter tunneler adapter to a catheter
A method of coupling a catheter tunneler adapter to a catheter is provided. The method includes providing a catheter having a lumen divider at a proximal end thereof; forming a receiving notch in the lumen divider by removing a center portion thereof such that two divider side portions remain; providing a catheter tunneler adapter having a distal end including a radially inward step which defines a contact surface configured to be received in the proximal end of the catheter; positioning the distal end of the catheter tunneler adapter within the catheter until the radially inward step engages the receiving notch; and securing the catheter tunneler adapter to the catheter. |
| US09993617B1 |
Elongated surgical manipulator with body position and distal force sensing
An elongated surgical manipulator apparatus and method of operating enables determination of the shape of a flexible portion of the elongated surgical manipulator and/or the location of an arbitrary point thereon, as well as a measure of a contact force exerted on a distal portion of the manipulator. A plurality of fiber optics are operatively coupled with the manipulator, each of the fiber optics including a plurality of fiber Bragg gratings for determination of the shape and/or position. Each of the fiber optics further includes a fiber optic strain gauge such as a Bragg grating or a Fabry-Perot resonator at a distal portion of the elongated surgical manipulator that is isolated from the strain associated with the bending of the manipulator. The fiber optic strain gauges at the distal portion may thus be used to detect a force vector (magnitude and direction) imposed on the distal portion. |
| US09993613B2 |
Guide extension catheter
Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a guide extension catheter. The guide extension catheter may include a proximal tubular member having a lumen defined therein. A distal tubular member may be attached to the proximal tubular member. The proximal tubular member may have an outer diameter. The distal tubular member may have an inner diameter. The inner diameter of the distal tubular member may be greater than the outer diameter of the proximal tubular member. A stiffening member may be slidably disposed within the proximal tubular member. |
| US09993609B2 |
Electrical heater with particular application to humidification and fluid warming
A humidifier includes a tub configured to contain a supply of water and a heater including a first polymer film having an electrically conductive circuit provided upon a surface. The first polymer film is electrically insulating and the tub is formed of molded resin and the heater is molded at least partially within the resin. A respiratory apparatus for delivering a flow of breathable gas to a patient includes the humidifier. A method of humidifying a flow of pressurized breathable gas includes passing the flow of pressurized breathable gas over a supply of water contained in a tub. The tub is formed of molded resin and a heater including a first polymer film having an electrically conductive circuit on a first surface is molded at least partially within the resin. |
| US09993608B2 |
Respiratory humidifier communication systems and methods
A respiratory humidification system includes a humidifier that is capable of electronic communication with one or more other components of the system thereby permitting transfer of data or control signals between the humidifier and other components of the system. In some systems, a flow generator, such as a ventilator, is provided to supply a flow of breathing gas. The humidifier and the flow generator are capable of electronic communication with one another. In some arrangements, an operating mode or parameter of the humidifier to be set or confirmed by the flow generator, either automatically or manually through a user interface of the flow generator. The humidifier can also utilize data provided by the flow generator or other system component, such as an incubator, to set or confirm an operating mode or parameter of the humidifier. In some arrangements, a user interface of the humidifier can display data from another system component, such as a nebulizer or pulse oximeter. |
| US09993606B2 |
Mask system
A mask system including a headgear and cushion module and a seal and frame module provided to the headgear and cushion module. The seal and frame module includes a sealing portion adapted to form a seal with the patient's face and a frame portion adapted to form a breathing chamber. The headgear and cushion module includes a cushion region adapted to support and shape the sealing portion and a headgear region adapted to support and stabilize the mask system on the patient's face. |
| US09993605B2 |
PAP system
A PAP system includes a PAP device to generate a supply of pressurized air, a patient interface adapted to form a seal with the patient's face, air delivery tubing to interconnect the patient interface and the PAP device, and a cover that substantially encloses at least a portion of the PAP device and a portion of the air delivery tubing. The cover allows the PAP device to be carried by and/or supported on the patient's head. |
| US09993604B2 |
Methods and systems for an optimized proportional assist ventilation
This disclosure describes systems and methods for providing an optimized proportional assist breath type during ventilation of a patient. The disclosure describes a novel breath type that delivers a target airway pressure calculated based on a desired patient effort range to a triggering patient. |
| US09993603B2 |
Valved medical aerosol holding and delivery chamber
A non linear, medicated aerosol holding and delivery chamber without sealing valves at the aerosol inlet and outlet ends. There is a low pressure actuated, vacuum relief, drain check valve at the bottom end of the chamber and an overpressure relief valve at the top end adjacent the mouthpiece opening. The vacuum relief, drain check valve has a radial support plate beneath it that allows for the creation of a vortex in the aerosol plume. The drain check valve also provides for the complete return of any condensed aerosol to the nebulizer when closed. The overpressure relief valve efficiently allows dispelling of the patient's air. Both valves aid in the decrease of the MMAD of the medicated aerosol particles. There is no truly enclosed volume defined by the body of the chamber as the mouthpiece is open into the top of the chamber body, free of any valves. |
| US09993599B2 |
Skin engagement member for use with needle assembly or medical injector
A skin engagement member is provided herein for use with a needle assembly or a medical injector to minimize irritation of a patient's skin surrounding an injection site during injection by a needle of the needle assembly or the medical injector. The skin engagement member includes: a body; a surface defined on the body for engaging the patient's skin during injection by the needle; an aperture formed through the body configured to permit passage therethrough of the needle; and, rotatable mounting features for rotatably mounting the body to the needle assembly or the medical injector such that the surface, while engaging the patient's skin, is rotatable about the aperture. |
| US09993596B2 |
Implantable infusion devices including apparatus for confirming side port access
Implantable infusion devices and systems with side port access detection capability and methods of detecting side port access. |
| US09993583B2 |
High-density lipoprotein coated medical devices and methods of treatment using the devices
Method are disclosed for local and systemic administration HDL, recombinant HDL or HDLm for the prevention, treatment, or amelioration of a vascular disorder, disease or occlusion such as restenosis or vulnerable plaque. |
| US09993580B2 |
Products comprising an extracellular matrix tissue material and osteogenic protein
Osteogenic compositions include a decellularized extracellular matrix tissue and bone morphogenic protein, preferably BMP-2. The compositions make beneficial use of the BMP, which can be used at relatively low doses and can bind to native components (e.g., native sulfated glycosaminoglycans such as heparin and/or heparan sulfate) remaining in the decellularized extracellular matrix tissue. Methods for preparation and use of such compositions are also described. The compositions and related methods can be used in the treatment of diseased or damaged bone tissue. |
| US09993579B2 |
Polyurethanes for osteoimplants
Biological-based polyurethanes and methods of making the same. The polyurethanes are formed by reacting a biodegradable polyisocyanate (such as lysine diisocyanate) with an optionally hydroxylated biomolecule to form polyurethane. The polymers formed may be combined with ceramic and/or bone particles to form a composite, which may be used as an osteoimplant. |
| US09993578B1 |
Silicone oil-in-water composition useful as an injectable filler and as a scaffold for collagen growth
The present invention relates to compositions in the form of oil-in-water dispersions comprising a silicone oil having an average droplet diameter from about 30 microns to about 2000 microns and a polymeric thickening agent. These compositions are useful for stimulating collagen production in human patients and other mammals, and have applications for soft tissue augmentation for various medical and cosmetic procedures. The present invention also relates to methods for preparing these compositions and to methods for stimulating collagen production in human patients and other mammals in need thereof. In contrast to the prior art, the compositions and methods of the present invention are particularly useful for stimulating the production of high quality collagen that is uniform, smooth, long-lasting, and having good structural integrity. |
| US09993576B2 |
Cement products and methods of making and using the same
Disclosed are cement products, methods of forming cement using the cement product, and methods of using the cement product in orthopedic and dental applications. Generally, the disclosed cement product includes a first component and a second component. The first component comprises a polymerizable resin comprising ethylenic unsaturated double bond, a suitable glycidyl group and/or a suitable isocyanate group. The second component includes a compound comprising more than one type of amine selected from the group consisting of primary amine, secondary amines, tertiary amines and quaternary amines. Alternatively, the second component includes a compound comprising a suitable mercapto (SH—) group, a hindered amine or a dimethylthiotoluenediamine (DMTDA). Optionally, the cement product includes a filler and/or a bioactive component to promote bone formation. |
| US09993573B1 |
Odor neutralizer
A combination of herbal extracts in aqueous solution that when sprayed into a confined area as a fine mist, chemically neutralizes a wide range of odors including those that are acidic, alkaline, and neutral in nature. While this chemical solution may contain fragrances, odor elimination occurs chemically rather than by masking. |
| US09993567B2 |
Composition of anti-ENDO180 antibodies and methods of use for the treatment of cancer and fibrotic diseases
The present invention provides antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof that specifically bind the ENDO180 polypeptide and are internalized thereby, to conjugates comprising the molecules, to compositions comprising the antibodies and conjugates and to methods of using the same for delivery of therapeutic agents to cells that express the ENDO180 polypeptide on the surface of the cell for treating cell proliferative diseases or disorders and fibrosis, and for controlling (modulating) tumor progression. |
| US09993564B2 |
Blood brain barrier shuttle
A blood brain barrier shuttle comprising a brain effector entity and a brain targeting peptide. |
| US09993563B2 |
Compounds and methods for trans-membrane delivery of molecules
A novel delivery system for drugs, and especially macromolecules such as proteins or oligonucleotides through biological membranes is provided, and specifically delivery of siRNA. The delivery system comprises conjugation of the macromolecule drug to a moiety that enables effective passage through the membranes. Respectively, novel compounds and pharmaceutical compositions are provided, utilizing said delivery system. In one aspect of the invention, the compounds may be utilized in medical practice, for example, in delivery of siRNA or antisense oligonucleotides across biological membranes for the treatment of medical disorders. |
| US09993562B2 |
Metallic gold cluster molecules as therapeutic agents for arthritic animals
A therapeutic method for attenuating symptoms of inflammation and autoimmune diseases. This method includes preparing and administering to animals intraperitoneally or orally a metallic gold cluster complex preparation. |
| US09993560B2 |
Rifaximin complexes
There is provided a complex comprising rifaximin and a complexing agent, wherein the complexing agent is a polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) or a cyclodextrin. There is also provided a process for preparing the complex, a pharmaceutical composition including the complex and therapeutic uses of the complex. |
| US09993555B2 |
Rapid-acting insulin compositions
The invention is a composition of human insulin or insulin analog that includes specific concentrations of citrate, chloride, in some cases including the addition of sodium chloride, zinc and, optionally, magnesium chloride and/or surfactant, and that has faster pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic action than commercial formulations of existing insulin analog products. |
| US09993550B2 |
Treatment of pemphigus
The present invention concerns treatment of pemphigus with an antibody which binds to CD20. |
| US09993548B2 |
Tolerogenic synthetic nanocarriers for inducing regulatory B cells
Disclosed are synthetic nanocarrier methods, and related compositions, comprising B cell and/or MHC Class II-restricted epitopes and immunosuppressants in order to generate tolerogenic immune responses, such as the generation of antigen-specific regulatory B cells. |
| US09993543B2 |
Immunogenic compositions comprising silicified virus and methods of use
It is disclosed herein that viruses coated in silica retain infectivity and the capacity to induce an immune response in an infected host. In addition, silicified virus is remarkably resistant to desiccation. Provided herein are methods of inducing a virus-specific immune response in a subject by administering to the subject an effective amount of silicified virus or silicified virus particles. Methods of enhancing a virus-specific cell-mediated immune response (such as a T cell-mediated immune response) in a subject by administering to the subject a silicified virus or silicified virus particles are also described herein. Further provided are immunogenic compositions comprising silicified virus or silicified virus particles, such as compositions useful as vaccines. The immunogenic compositions include a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or an adjuvant. |
| US09993538B2 |
Peptide vaccine therapy for treatment of FRα-expressing tumors
Provided are methods for inducing and maintaining protective immunity against a tumor expressing FRα in a subject, comprising the administration of one or more peptide vaccines according to a particular dosages or particular dosage regimens. |
| US09993537B2 |
Methods and compositions related to Th-1 dendritic cells
Certain embodiments of the invention are directed to methods for inducing an immunologic response to a tumor in a patient using mature dendritic cells transfected with a nucleic acid composition encoding one or more tumor antigens and loaded with a corresponding tumor antigen composition. |
| US09993534B2 |
Method of treating fungal infection
A vaccine comprising Calnexin fragment and a method of using the vaccine to immunize a patient against fungi are disclosed. The Calnexin fragment may be either a full-length native version or a functionally equivalent version of full-length Calnexin. |
| US09993528B2 |
Treatment of short bowel syndrome patients with colon-in-continuity
Intestinal absorption is enhanced in short bowel syndrome patients presenting with colon-in-continuity by treatment with a GLP-2 receptor agonist, such as teduglutide. |
| US09993527B2 |
Silk fibroin materials and use thereof
The present invention provides processes for producing porous silk fibroin scaffold material. The porous silk fibroin scaffold can be used for tissue engineering. The porosity of the silk fibroin scaffolds described herein can be adjusted as to mimic the gradient of densities found in natural tissue. Accordingly, methods for engineering of 3-dimensional tissue, e.g. bone and cartilage, using the silk fibroin scaffold material are also provided. |
| US09993525B2 |
Biomaterial of chymotryptically isolated fraction of fibroin in a hydrogel
A method for making a biomaterial comprising providing at least one polypeptide fraction chymotryptically isolated and extracted from fibroin, and adding the at least one extracted polypeptide fraction to a hydrogel precursor before gelling, wherein the at least one isolated and extracted polypeptide fraction is selected from a soluble fraction Cs, and a precipitated fraction Cp. A biomaterial comprising at least one of the isolated and extracted polypeptide fractions incorporated in a hydrogel or a hydrogel precursor. Use of the biomaterial for constructing, regenerating, repairing, replacing or augmenting soft or hard tissue; as an in vitro or in vivo construct; as a coating material; or as a cell, molecule or particle delivery medium. Use of the isolated and extracted polypeptide fraction Cs for promoting osteoinduction, osteoconduction or osteogenesis. Use of the isolated and extracted polypeptide fraction Cp for enhancing a mechanical compressive modulus of a material into which it is incorporated. |
| US09993521B2 |
Modulation of scleraxis using a dominant negative scleraxis mutant with a basic DNA-binding domain deletion
Compositions and kits for modulating expression of scleraxis and/or collagen synthesis in mammalian cells and tissues. The compositions and kits comprise a protein comprising an amino acid sequence that shares at least 75% homology with SEQ ID NO:11. Proteins comprising amino acid sequences that share at least 75% homology with SEQ ID NO: 11 are expressed by mutants of scleraxis gene wherein a nucleotide sequence comprising a basic DNA binding domain has been deleted. Such mutants are exemplified by basic domain deletion ScxΔBD mutants that comprise nucleotide sequences sharing at least 75% homology with SEQ ID NO:8 or SEQ ID NO: 10. Methods for modulating fibrosis in a subject comprising administration of a composition comprising at least one physiologically effective dosage of a protein comprising a polypeptide molecule comprising an amino acid sequence that shares at least 75% homology with SEQ ID NO: 11. |
| US09993520B2 |
Vasopressin formulations for use in treatment of hypotension
Provided herein are peptide formulations comprising polymers as stabilizing agents. The peptide formulations can be more stable for prolonged periods of time at temperatures higher than room temperature when formulated with the polymers. The polymers used in the present invention can decrease the degradation of the constituent peptides of the peptide formulations. |
| US09993519B2 |
Anticancer peptide for inhibiting proliferation of cancer stem cells and use thereof
The present invention relates to an anticancer composition comprising a peptide that inhibits the proliferation of cancer stem cells present in tumor tissue and that induces apoptosis of such cancer stem cells, and more particularly, to an anticancer peptide that inhibits the activity of NF-κB which is overexpressed specifically in cancer stem cells present in tumors. |
| US09993518B2 |
Association of a tetrapeptide and a glyceryl ester for treating androgenic alopecia
An association comprising a peptide is described containing the sequence A-Lys-Gly-His-Lys-NH2 (SEQ ID NO: 1), wherein A is the radical corresponding to a C1 to C18 saturated or unsaturated fatty acid, and glyceryl laurate or one of the derivatives thereof. The use thereof for stimulating hair growth is also described. |
| US09993517B2 |
Methods and compositions for preserving retinal ganglion cells
Provided are methods and compositions for maintaining the viability of retinal ganglion cells in a subject with an ocular disorder including, for example, glaucoma and optic nerve injury. The viability of the retinal ganglion cells can be preserved by administering a necrosis inhibitor either alone or in combination with an apoptosis inhibitor to a subject having an eye with the ocular condition. The compositions, when administered, maintain the viability of the cells and/or promote axon regeneration, thereby minimizing the loss of vision or visual function associated with the ocular disorder. |
| US09993513B2 |
Preparation made from oatmeal and method for its use
A preparation is disclosed, made of, preferably colloidal, oat flour, along with the same for use in the treatment of diseases, further cosmetic methods, comprising the application of the preparation, as well as methods of making the preparation. The preparation is particularly suitable for use in the treatment of irritable or inflammatory conditions, comprising itching, redness, and/or dry or cracked or open or oozing or thickened or inflamed skin or mucous membrane, for external or internal administration, preferably to the skin or mucous membranes, in particular directly at the site of irritated or inflammatory conditions. |
| US09993510B2 |
Acne-removing traditional chinese medicine composition and preparation method thereof
Disclosed are an acne-removing traditional Chinese medicine composition and a preparation method thereof, wherein the traditional Chinese medicine composition is made from Garcinia mangostana L pericarp, thyme and Fructus aurantii through steps of ethanol extraction and macroporous resin, and collecting the part eluted by 60%-80% ethanol. The three medicinal materials of the composition have a synergic anti-inflammation effect. |
| US09993504B2 |
Methods and compositions for generating chondrocyte lineage cells and/or cartilage like tissue
A method for generating chondrocytes and/or cartilage, optionally articular like non-hypertrophic chondrocyte cells and/or cartilage like tissue and/or hypertrophic chondrocyte like cells and/or cartilage like tissue, the method comprising: a. culturing a primitive streak-like mesoderm population, optionally a CD56+, PDGFRalpha+ KDR-primitive streak-like mesoderm population, with a paraxial mesoderm specifying cocktail comprising: i. a FGF agonist; ii. a BMP inhibitor; optionally Noggin, LDN-193189, Dorsomorphin; and iii. optionally one or more of a TGFbeta inhibitor, optionally SB431524; and a Wnt inhibitor, optionally DKK1, IWP2, or XAV939; to specify a paraxial mesoderm population expressing cell surface CD73, CD105 and/or PDGFR-beta; b. generating a chondrocyte precursor population comprising: i. culturing the paraxial mesoderm population expressing CD73, CD105 and/or PDGFR-beta at a high cell density optionally in serum free or serum containing media; ii. culturing the high cell density CD73+, CD105+ and/or PDGFRbeta+ paraxial mesoderm population with a TGFbeta3 agonist in serum free media to produce a high cell density Sox9+, collagen 2+ chondrocyte precursor population; and c. either i. culturing the high cell density Sox9+, collagen 2+ chondrocyte precursor population with the TGFbeta3 agonist for an extended period of time to produce an articular like non-hypertrophic chondrocyte cells and/or cartilage like tissue; or ii. culturing the high cell density Sox9+ collagen2+ chondrocyte precursor population with a BMP4 agonist for an extended period of time to produce a hypertrophic chondrocyte like cells and/or cartilage like tissue. |
| US09993502B1 |
Genetically-modified cells comprising a modified human T cell receptor alpha constant region gene
Disclosed herein is a genetically-modified cell comprising in its genome a modified human T cell receptor alpha constant region gene, wherein the cell has reduced cell-surface expression of the endogenous T cell receptor. The present disclosure further relates to methods for producing such a genetically-modified cell, and to methods of using such a cell for treating a disease in a subject. |
| US09993497B2 |
Use of alginate compositions in preventing or reducing liver damage caused by a hepatotoxic agent
Disclosed herein are compositions, methods and uses utilizing alginate compositions, for treating, preventing and/or reducing liver damage induced by a hepatotoxic agent, and for treating a medical condition treatable by a hepatotoxic agent, in which an alginate composition is administered prior to, concomitant with, or shortly after exposure to a hepatotoxic agent. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising a hepatotoxic agent and an alginate composition and uses thereof for treating medical conditions treatable by the hepatotoxic agent. |
| US09993494B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating fibrotic disease
The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods for treating or preventing a fibrotic disorder or disease. |
| US09993493B2 |
Composition for prevention, amelioration or treatment of metabolic syndrome
A composition comprising (a) and (b), and a food or drink or a medicine comprising the composition, wherein (a) is at least a kind of polyphenols selected from the group consisting of a polyphenol containing 15 mass % or more of proanthocyanidin having a polymerization degree of 1 to 3, hesperidin, a hesperidin derivative, and hesperetin; and (b) is at least a kind of xanthine derivatives, the mass ratio of (a):(b) in the composition being 1:(0.001 to 5), are useful for the prevention, amelioration, or treatment of metabolic syndrome, disorders of lipid metabolism (for example, fatty liver, hyperlipidemia), obesity (for example, visceral fat accumulation, subcutaneous fat accumulation), or the like. |
| US09993491B2 |
Guanine riboswitch binding compounds and their use as antibiotics
The present invention includes novel compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable formulations of said compounds which exhibit antibiotic activity against microorganisms bearing a guanine riboswitch that controls the expression of the guaA gene, including organisms which are resistant to certain antibiotic families, and which are useful as antibacterial agents for treatment or prophylaxis of bacterial infections in animals or in humans, in particular but not limited to infections of the mammary gland, or their use as antiseptics, agents for sterilization or disinfection. |
| US09993490B2 |
Phosphonic acid compounds and screening method
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a phosphonic acid compound, such as a natural product. Such compounds can include, such as an antibiotic or compound with other activity, derived from an Actinobacteria strain having a gene encoding pepM (phosphoenolpyruvate phosphomutase) or a pepM-dependent biosynthetic pathway. The present invention also relates to methods for treating or preventing or reducing the risk of a bacterial infection by administering a therapeutically effective or prophylactically effective amount of a phosphonic acid antibiotic, or a pharmaceutical composition containing such an antibiotic, to a patient or subject in need thereof. The present invention further relates to methods for isolating, purfying, and identifying such phosphonic acid compounds from Actinobacteria strains. |
| US09993486B1 |
Oral quetiapine suspension formulations with extended shelf life and enhanced bioavailability
A quetiapine fumarate composition for oral administration is provided comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate of quetiapine existing as a suspension in an aqueous carrier agent. The inventive liquid formulation demonstrates high bioavailability consistent with approved dosage forms, low agglomeration, reduced content of excipients commonly used in solid oral dosage forms and extended shelf life stability. Also provided is a method of manufacturing a liquid quetiapine suspension composition for oral administration and methods of administering therapeutically effective dosages of an oral liquid quetiapine suspension composition to patients in need thereof. |
| US09993484B2 |
2-(morpholin-4-yl)-1,7-naphthyridines
The present invention relates to substituted 2-(morpholin-4-yl)-1,7-naphthyridine compounds of general formula (I) or (1b), to methods of preparing said compounds, to intermediate compounds useful for preparing said compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions and combinations comprising said compounds and to the use of said compounds for manufacturing a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment or prophylaxis of a disease, in particular of a hyperproliferative disease as a sole agent or in combination with other active ingredients. |
| US09993482B2 |
Pharmaceutical combination comprising a class III receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor and the alkylating histone-deacetylase inhibitor fusion molecule EDO-S101 together with its use in the treatment of cancer
The present invention is directed to a combination comprising a class III receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor and a compound of formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: to a pharmaceutical composition and to a kit both comprising said combination, to the combination, composition or kit for use in the treatment of cancer, and to a method of treatment of cancer in a patient in need thereof comprising administering to said patient an effective amount of said combination, composition or kit. |
| US09993479B2 |
Trk-inhibiting compound
The present invention provides a drug containing a compound having Trk-inhibiting activity as an active ingredient in prophylaxis and/or therapy for Trk-related diseases such as pain, pruritus, lower urinary tract dysfunction, asthma, allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease or Chagas disease. A compound represented by the general formula (I), wherein all symbols represent the same meanings as described in the specification, a salt thereof, an N-oxide thereof, a solvate thereof or a prodrug thereof is useful as a drug component having Trk-inhibiting activity in prophylaxis and/or therapy of diseases such as pain, pruritus, lower urinary tract dysfunction, asthma, allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease or Chagas disease. |
| US09993478B2 |
1-pyrazolyl-3-(4-((2-anilinopyrimidin-4-yl) oxy) napththalen-1-yl) ureas as P38 MAP knase inhibitors
There are provided compounds of formula (I) which are inhibitors of the family of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase enzymes, and to their use in therapy, including in pharmaceutical combinations, especially in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory diseases of the lung, such as asthma and COPD. |
| US09993475B2 |
Method for treating a pulmonary hypertension condition
A method for treating a pulmonary hypertension condition such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in a subject comprises administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of ambrisentan, wherein, at baseline, time from first diagnosis of the condition in the subject is not greater than about 2 years. |
| US09993473B2 |
Crystalline forms of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and their salts
The invention relates to various polymorphic forms and amorphous form of sodium 4-((3-(4-cyclohexylpiperazin-1-yl)-6-oxo-6H-anthra[1,9-cd]isoxazol-5-yl)amino)benzate, including the polymorphic form A, mixtures of the polymorphs, process for the preparation thereof and the use thereof in a pharmaceutical composition containing thereof. |
| US09993471B2 |
Ophthalmic formulations of cetirizine and methods of use
The present invention provides stable topical formulations of cetirizine that provide a comfortable formulation when instilled in the eye and is effective in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis and/or allergic conjunctivitis. The invention further provides methods of treating allergic conjunctivitis and/or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in a subject in need of such treatment by topical application of the cetirizine formulations of the invention directly to the eye. |
| US09993466B2 |
Donepezil transdermal delivery system
A transdermal delivery system for systemic delivery of donepezil is described, where the system comprises an adhesive matrix drug reservoir layer comprised of a copolymer of acrylic acid/vinyl acetate, triethyl citrate, and donepezil base generated in situ by reaction of donepezil HCl and an alkaline salt. The system is provided for treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and achieves transdermal delivery of the therapeutic agent at steady state that is bioequivalent to administration of the therapeutic agent orally. |
| US09993464B2 |
Otamixaban formulations with improved stability
The invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising methyl (2R.3R)-2-{3-[amino(imino)methyl]benzyl}-3-{[4-(1-oxidopyridin-4-yl)benzoyl]amino}butanoate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable acidic reacting compound or to an aqueous solution or dispersion of the composition as well as a process for the preparation of the same, methods of using such compositions to treat subjects suffering from conditions which can be ameliorated by the administration of an inhibitor of Factor Xa. |
| US09993462B2 |
Hydantoin derivative-containing pharmaceutical composition
The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions for inducing bone and/or cartilage anabolism, which comprises as an active ingredient a compound represented by formula (1) below and a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof: wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are as defined in the claims. |
| US09993460B2 |
Compositions to improve the therapeutic benefit of bisantrene and analogs and derivatives thereof
The present invention describes methods and compositions for improving the therapeutic efficacy of therapeutic agents previously limited by suboptimal therapeutic performance by either improving efficacy as monotherapy or reducing side effects. Such methods and compositions are particularly applicable to bisantrene or derivatives, analogs, or prodrugs thereof. |
| US09993456B2 |
Preparation and use of a composition for prevention and mitigation of the effects of radiation
Plant extracts, compositions, pharmaceutical compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided herein. The compositions comprise γ-tocotrienol (GT3) and δ-tocotrienol (DT3) in ratios wherein the DT3 is predominate. The compositions are useful for radioprotection and radiomitigation in subjects in need thereof. |
| US09993454B2 |
Solid nanoparticle formulation of water insoluble pharmaceutical substances with reduced Ostwald ripening
The present invention belongs to the fields of pharmacology, medicine and medicinal chemistry. The present invention provides novel pharmaceutical compositions composed of solid nanoparticles dispersed in aqueous medium of substantially water insoluble pharmaceutical substances such as docetaxel with reduced Ostwald ripening. |
| US09993452B2 |
Compositions and methods for treatment of inflammation
The present invention is directed to novel anti-inflammatory immunomodulators including creatinine or a creatinine salt, for example, creatinine hydrochloride. The present invention is also directed to methods for treating inflammation and inducing an immunomodulatory response. In particular, the anti-inflammatory immunomodulators are useful for treating an inflammatory condition or an autoimmune disease. |
| US09993451B2 |
Continuous administration of dopa decarboxylase inhibitors and compositions for same
Disclosed herein are compositions that include for example the arginine salt of carbidopa, and methods for treating neurological or movement diseases or disorders such as restless leg syndrome, Parkinson's disease, secondary parkinsonism, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's like syndrome, PSP, MSA, ALS, Shy-Drager syndrome and conditions resulting from brain injury including carbon monoxide or manganese intoxication, using substantially continuous administration of carbidopa or salt thereof together with administration of levodopa. |
| US09993445B1 |
Oral solution comprising atomoxetine hydrochloride and methods thereof
Disclosed herein is an oral pharmaceutical composition in the form of an aqueous solution of atomoxetine as an active ingredient. The aqueous solution of atomoxetine comprises a taste-masked liquid carrier comprising peppermint, orange flavor and a viscosity agent. The combined flavors successfully masked atomoxetine hydrochloride's bitter smell and/or taste which makes it a novel palatable pharmaceutical composition. The viscosity agent improves the oral pharmaceutical composition's consistency and provides a smooth texture which makes it easy to swallow. More specifically, the oral pharmaceutical composition comprises effective amounts of: (a) atomoxetine or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; and (b) a taste-masked liquid carrier. Also provided is a method for making the aqueous solution of atomoxetine. The present disclosure also provides methods of using oral pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of a subject having a disorder treatable by the administration of atomoxetine. In one embodiment, the disorder is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). |
| US09993440B2 |
Enzyme responsive nanocapsules for protein delivery
The invention provides methods of making and using compositions comprising a polymer shell designed to deliver polypeptides to selected environments. In embodiments of the invention, different environmental conditions are harnessed to allow the selective degradation of the polymer shell and the consequential release of one or polypeptides encapsulated therein. In illustrative embodiments, polymer components of the shell are interconnected by peptide-containing crosslinker moieties, linkages which maintain the integrity of the polymer shell under certain environmental conditions, but can also be cleaved when combined with a selected protease. |
| US09993437B2 |
Mesoporous silica nanoparticles for biomedical applications
A submicron structure includes a silica body defining a plurality of pores that are suitable to receive molecules therein, the silica body further defining an outer surface between pore openings of the plurality of pores; and a plurality of anionic molecules attached to the outer surface of the silica body. The anionic molecules provide hydrophilicity to the submicron structure and are suitable to provide repulsion between other similar submicron structures, and the submicron structure has a maximum dimension less than one micron. |
| US09993432B2 |
Pharmaceutical dosage form comprising nifedipine or nisoldipine and an angiotensin II antagonist and/or a diuretic
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical dosage form comprising an active ingredient combination of nifedipine or nisoldipine and at least one angiotensin II antagonist and/or at least one diuretic, characterized in that nifedipine or nisoldipine is released in the body in a controlled (modified) manner and the angiotensin II antagonist and/or the diuretic is released rapidly (immediate release (IR)), and also to processes for their preparation, to their use as medicaments and to their use for the prophylaxis, secondary prophylaxis or treatment of disorders. |
| US09993428B2 |
Gastroretentive drug formulation and delivery systems and their method of preparation using functionalized calcium carbonate
An instantly floating gastroretentive drug formulation comprising at least one functionalized natural and/or synthetic calcium carbonate-comprising mineral and at least one pharmaceutically active ingredient and at least one formulating aid wherein said functionalized natural or synthetic calcium carbonate is a reaction product of natural or synthetic calcium carbonate with carbon dioxide and one or more acids, wherein the carbon dioxide is formed in situ by the acid treatment and/or is supplied from an external source. |
| US09993415B2 |
Hair treatment agent and method for causing modified peptide to penetrate into hair
A hair treatment agent in which penetrability of a modified peptide into the internal structure of the hair can be enhanced even under the conditions of acidic pH, and a method for causing a modified peptide to penetrate into the hair, are provided.Disclosed is a hair treatment agent at a pH of from 3.5 to 5.5, the hair treatment agent including: (A) a modified peptide having one kind or two or more kinds of side chain groups selected from a side chain having a structure represented by the following Formula (I), a side chain group having a salt of a structure represented by the following Formula (I), a side chain group having a structure represented by the following Formula (II), a side chain group having a salt of a structure represented by the following Formula (II), a side chain group having a structure represented by the following Formula (III), and a side chain group having a salt of a structure represented by the following Formula (III); and (B) an anionic surfactant: —S—S—(CH2)n—COOH (I) (wherein in Formula (I), n represents 1 or 2) —S—S—CH(CH3)—COOH (II) —S—S—CH(COOH)—CH2—COOH (III). |
| US09993408B2 |
Compositions comprising zwitterionic alkyl-alkanoylamides and/or alkyl alkanoates
The present invention provides compositions utilizing a first zwitterionic ammonio-alkanamide and/or zwitterionic ammonio-alkanoate surfactant according to Formula 1 and an ingredient selected from the group consisting a surfactant other than the first zwitterionic surfactant, emulsifiers, conditioning agents, emollients, moisturizers, humectants, thickeners, lubricants, chelating agents, fillers, binding agents, anti-oxidants, preservatives, active ingredients, fragrances, dyes, buffering agents, exfoliates, pH adjusters, inorganic salts, solvents, viscosity controlling agents and opacifying agents, wherein the composition is substantially free of alkylamidoamine and aminoalkylamine. |
| US09993404B2 |
Translucent hair conditioning composition
Disclosed is a hair conditioning composition comprising: a cationic surfactant; a high melting point fatty compound having a melting point of 25° C. or higher; a material having a refractive index of from about 1.30 to about 1.70; and an aqueous carrier, wherein a composition has a transmittance of at least about 0.5%. The composition is further specified by either: (i) the material is a polyol having at least 3 hydroxyl groups and the polyol is contained at a level of above 30% to about 80% by weight of the composition; or (ii) the cationic surfactant is a salt of a mono-long alkyl amine and an acid. The compositions provides both translucent appearance and conditioning benefits, especially conditioning benefit on wet hair when used as a rinse-off conditioner and/or spreadability on hair. |
| US09993400B2 |
Cosmetic composition comprising an alkyl phosphate and a fatty alkyl ether of polyethylene glycol, processes therefor and uses thereof
A mascara composition including water; an emulsifying system of at least one C16-C18 alkyl phosphate and at least one C16-C22 fatty alkyl ether of polyethylene glycol, the ether with 1 to 19 ethylene glycol units and having an HLB<8 at 25° C.; at least one pigment having a color; and at least one wax; wherein the emulsification system inhibits aggregation of the pigment in the mascara composition such that the color of the pigment is not inhibited, and wherein the mascara composition has a viscosity ranging from 1 to 60 Pa·s. |
| US09993398B2 |
Method for forming a dispersion comprising drops, and associated apparatus
This method comprises the following steps: flowing drops of a first phase, through a circulation duct, into a second phase that is substantially immiscible with the first phase, each drop comprising a core formed from the first phase and a shell formed from a layer of coacervate inserted between the first phase and the second phase; recovering a dispersion containing drops and the second phase in a container; injecting a solution for increasing the viscosity of the second phase in the circulation duct or at the outlet of the circulation duct, upstream from the container. |
| US09993395B2 |
Polymer for a glass ionomer cement
A process for producing a water-soluble, hydrolysis-stable, polymerizable polymer, comprising a) a step of copolymerizing a mixture comprising (i) a first copolymerizable monomer comprising at least one optionally protected carboxylic acid group and a first polymerizable organic moiety, and (ii) a second copolymerizable monomer comprising one or more optionally protected primary and/or secondary amino groups and a second polymerizable organic moiety, for obtaining an amino group containing copolymer; b) a step of coupling to the amino group containing copolymer a compound having a polymerizable moiety and a functional group reactive with an amino group of repeating units derived from the second copolymerizable monomer in the amino group containing copolymer obtained in the first step wherein the optionally protected amino group is deprotected, so that polymerizable pendant groups are linked to the backbone by hydrolysis-stable linking groups, and, optionally, a step of deprotecting the protected carboxylic acid group after step (a) or step (b), for obtaining a polymerizable polymer. |
| US09993394B2 |
Dental restorative composition
Provided is a dental restorative composition that has good handling properties when in the form of a paste having yet to be cured and that has light diffusion ability and transparency when in the form of a cured product. The dental restorative composition includes a polymerizable monomer, a polymerization initiator, an inorganic filler (C) having an average particle diameter of 0.1 to 1 μm, an organic-inorganic composite filler (D) having an average particle diameter of 1 μm or more and less than 10 μm, and an organic-inorganic composite filler (E) having an average particle diameter of 10 to 50 μm. An absolute value of a difference between a refractive index (Cd) of the inorganic filler (C) and a refractive index (Ad) of a polymer of the polymerizable monomer is 0.01 or less, an absolute value of a difference between the refractive index (Ad) and one of a refractive index (Dd) of the organic-inorganic composite filler (D) and a refractive index (Ed) of the organic-inorganic composite filler (E) is 0.01 or less, and an absolute value of a difference between the refractive index (Ad) and the other of the refractive index (Dd) and the refractive index (Ed) is 0.03 or more. |
| US09993389B2 |
Red blood cell products and the storage of red blood cells in containers free of phthalate plasticizer
Red blood cell products and compositions are disclosed. The product includes a container made from PVC or a non-PVC material that is substantially free of a phthalate plasticizer but otherwise includes one or more non-phthalate plasticizers or extractable agents. The product includes a RBC concentrate which has been combined with an additive solution for storing the RBCs. |
| US09993386B2 |
Instrumentation absolute value differential amplifier circuit and applications
An instrumentation absolute value differential amplifier is used as part of an electroencephalogram, electromyogram or electrocardiogram to quantify the excitation state of a user, processing and transmitting this information as a control signal for a user feedback device. In one possible arrangement, this feedback device includes a wireless sex toy which responds to the sent control information, acting as a mind controlled sex toy. This provides a simple, intuitive, aesthetically appealing interface for creating a unique sexual experience. The use of an instrumentation absolute value differential amplifier is sufficient to monitor the desired signals while reducing the number of parts required and allowing for less precise tolerances than traditional biological monitoring circuits, thus decreasing the cost of production. |
| US09993385B2 |
Visual health maintenance and improvement
A system to monitor visual health includes a processor operatively coupled to memory. The system further includes one or more subsystems configured to record data related to eye-health. The processor is configured to analyze the recorded data, detect a likelihood of eyestrain based on the analysis, and generate an alert to perform at least one action in response to the detection and based on the analysis. |
| US09993383B2 |
Drawer-mounted swing-out shelf
A shelf assembly comprises a shelf, an arm having a distal end and a proximal end, a first pivot connection between the shelf and the distal end of the arm, and a second pivot connection between the proximal end of the arm and a base. The base comprises a drawer movable in translation between at least a storage position and an operating position. A cabinet for a swing-out shelf is also described. |
| US09993382B1 |
Tissue retention systems and methods
A tissue retention belt for maintaining tissue in a position that permits access to a body portion of a patient for a medical procedure includes a first anchor zone, a second anchor zone, and a tension zone. The tension zone extends between the first anchor zone and the second anchor zone and defines a tension axis that extends in a direction of loading to be applied to retained tissue. The tension zone may include an auxiliary anchor zone that includes a removable non-adhesive and an adhesive surface configured to adhere to a patient's skin and provide auxiliary anchoring for maintaining tissue in position. |
| US09993381B2 |
Knee positioner with expandable carriage
Apparatus for adjustably positioning extremity or body part such as knees hands, or feet for a surgical procedure having a carriage with a base adapted to engage a track for sliding movement there along, an arm configured to fit to the base at a hinge secured by a pin, a socket formed by the joining of the base and arm configured to accept a ball of a holder generally adapted to engage and support the extremity upon which the surgical procedure is to be performed, and a clamp adjacent cooperating with the hinge to lock a position of the carriage along a track and to lock a holder of an extremity in a secure position. The carriage is configured to be tightened and loosened by the movement of one handle, thereby forming a releasable lock to the ball in the socket and carriage position. |
| US09993380B2 |
Surgery table apparatus
A surgery table utilizing first and second sections which are hingedly attached to one another. First and second sections are also connected to supports apart from the hinged portion. An elevator moves one of the sections upwardly and downwardly at the support. The resultant position of the frame formed by the first and second sections may take the configuration of a flat surface or an upwardly or downwardly oriented “vee”. |
| US09993379B2 |
Therapeutic cushion systems and methods
Apparatus and methods for providing therapeutic treatment for symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a support element and a conformable riser element adjacent the support element. The riser element and the support element collectively form a body support member configured to support a user and define a receiving portion configured to receive a portion of the users arm. The riser element and the support element are each disposed within a casing formed at least in part with a stretch material. In some embodiments, the riser element includes a polyester filler material and the stretch material includes a four-way stretch material. The four-way stretch material in combination with the polyester filler material enables the riser element to be conformable. |
| US09993377B2 |
Articulating bed with flexible mattress support
An articulating bed incorporating a frame having side frame members and a rigid cross frame member extending between the side frame members employs a flexible support member secured to the rigid cross frame member. Support arms engage an upper body portion of the flexible support member with lubricious support and are rotatable through a range of motion from an aligned position with the side frame members to a fully elevated position angularly supporting the upper body portion in a raised position. A leg portion adjustment member engages the flexible support member at a knee position intermediate a thigh portion and a leg portion of the flexible support member. The leg portion adjustment member is rotatable through a range of motion from an aligned position with the side frame members to a fully elevated position placing the knee position at an elevated location with angular positioning of the thigh portion and leg portion. |
| US09993374B2 |
Absorbent personal care article having intermeshing flaps
An absorbent personal care article, such as a sanitary napkin or incontinence pad, having a longitudinal centerline and a transverse centerline and including a pair of opposed first and second wings extending along the longitudinal sides of the article. The first wing includes two or more peaks with furrows there between and the second wing includes one or more peaks. The peaks of the first and second wings are sized and positioned on the article such that when folded under the article and around the wearer's undergarments, the peak of the second wing extends across the longitudinal centerline of the article and into the furrow of the first wing. The inter-meshing wings help wearer's properly don the articles, improve the attachment of the article to the wearer's garment and/or reduce unwanted twisting or bunching of the article during use. |
| US09993371B2 |
Device for absorption and controlled discharge of liquid excretions
The device (10) has a handle (16) fixed to an end of a shaft (14). The handle is provided for the insertion of a detachable collection container (12) into a vagina, for rotation of the collection container about its longitudinal axis within the vagina or for the removal of the collection container from the vagina. The handle is provided with a hole (24), which is connected with the hollow interior of the shaft or a ventilation tube to ensure the supply of air to prevent pressure differences during removal of the collection container from the vagina. An independent claim is included for a method for absorption and controlled discharge of liquid excretion from a vagina. |
| US09993369B2 |
Article with soft nonwoven layer
An article having as a component a nonwoven material, which includes a layer of spunbond fibers. The fibers of the nonwoven material are made of a composition that includes a first polyolefin, a second polyolefin that is a propylene copolymer and is different from the first polyolefin and a softness enhancer additive. The layer of fibers also includes a plurality of calendering bonds with an aspect ratio of at least 2.5. |
| US09993362B2 |
Adjustable knee brace
An adjustable knee brace for fitting a variety of leg sizes and adjustable to limit flexion or extension motion of a knee. The knee brace includes an adjustable length provided by a strut that telescopes within a receiver. A latch assembly mounted on the receiver selectively applies a frictional force to lock the strut member and the receiver against relative telescoping movement. An adjustable range of motion hinge is operatively associated with the telescoping strut. The hinge includes a hinge plate connected to the strut member and having a semi-circular peripheral edge defining a plurality of uniformly spaced apart keys. A range of motion stop is movably positionable relative to the semi-circular peripheral edge and includes a movable latch having teeth. The latch is movable away from the keys to an unlocked position in which the stop is movable relative to the keys, and the movable latch is movable toward and into engagement with the keys to a locked position in which the range of motion stop is not movable relative to the keys. The range of motion stop defines a limit of rotational movement of the range of motion hinge to limit extension or flexion motion of the knee. |
| US09993357B2 |
Prosthetic socket system
A prosthetic socket system includes a socket having an inner surface defining a socket cavity. A liner is adapted to receive a residual limb and be removably positioned within the socket cavity. A substantially sealed volume is defined between at least a portion of an outer surface of the liner and a corresponding portion of the inner surface of the socket. A wicking material is positionable in the substantially sealed volume and at least one cooling fluid can be carried by the wicking material. The at least one cooling fluid is adapted to selectively boil within the substantially sealed volume such that heat from the residual limb is converted into latent heat of vaporization by the at least one cooling fluid for a cooling effect. |
| US09993355B2 |
Hydraulic valve
A valve includes a case comprising a pin bore, a pin configured to move axially in the pin bore, wherein the pin seals the pin bore, a first channel in communication with the pin bore, a second channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the second channel comprises a restrictor at a location offset from the first channel, a third channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the third channel comprises a check valve, and the second channel and third channel are in communication with each other. The valve can be a miniature valve that is used in the control of hydraulic fluid in prosthesis, such as a prosthetic ankle joint. |
| US09993354B2 |
Sensing force during partial and total knee replacement surgery
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for measuring forces in the space of a knee during surgery. Such forces can be caused by tension in the ligaments of the knee. A femoral member is engaged with a distal femur. While the knee is flexed, partially extended, or fully extended, a force sensor and a gauge shim can be placed in the gap between the femoral member and the tibial plateau to measure the forces therebetween. The force sensor provides an accurate and quantifiable measurement of force, making knee replacement surgery and ligament tension balancing more accurate, standardized and repeatable. The force sensor comprises an elongate housing which comprises a thin force sensing distal portion and a proximal handle portion. |
| US09993351B2 |
Systems, devices and apparatuses for bony fixation and disk repair and replacement methods related thereto
The present invention features new methods, apparatuses and devices for fixing adjacent bone segments, segments of a bony structure and adjacent vertebrate of a spine. The methods, apparatuses and devices utilize a new apparatus for forming a channel in a surface of the bone or bony structure segments or adjacent vertebra or a channel submerged within the bone or bony structure segments or adjacent vertebra. In more particular embodiments such apparatuses and methods including forming an arcuate channel and which channel can receive therein a curved rod or implant member, which also preferably is arcuate, and avoids the associated problems with prior cage or straight rod and screw systems. Also featured are systems, apparatuses and methods for repairing, replacing or augmenting the nucleus and/or annulus of a disc. |
| US09993346B2 |
Implantable devices for musculoskeletal repair and regeneration
This application describes an implantable device for tissue repair comprising at least two fabrics with interconnecting spacer elements transversing, connecting, and separating the fabrics, forming the device. Some embodiments have fixation points which can be an extension of at least one of the fabrics. The implantable device allows modification of the two fabrics having varying constructions, chemistries, and physical properties. The spacer elements create a space between the two fabrics, which can be used for the loading of biological materials (peptides, proteins, cells, tissues), offer compression resistance (i.e. stiffness), and compression recovery (i.e., return to original dimensions) following deformation and removal of deforming load. The inclusive fixation points of the fabrics are designed to allow for fine adjustment of the sizing and tension of the device to promote integration with the surrounding tissues as well as maximize the compressive resistance. The fixation points can include either the first fabric, the second fabric, or the combination of both fabrics. This device is suitable for soft and hard tissue regeneration or replacement with a preference for musculoskeletal tissues including but not limited to cartilage (including hyaline (referred to as articular; e.g. cartilage on the ends of long bones), fibrous (e.g. meniscus or intervertebral discs), elastic (e.g. ear, epiglottis)), bone, muscle, tendon, ligament, and fat. |
| US09993345B2 |
Femoral prosthesis system
A provisional femoral component, in one embodiment, including at least one first visual indicator and at least one second visual indicator, the first and second visual indicators providing indicating means for simultaneously visually representing a first profile of a first femoral prosthesis and a second profile of a second femoral prosthesis. In another embodiment, a provisional femoral component including a patellofemoral flange having two sulci and a central ridge between the two sulci. In this manner, the provisional femoral component can be positioned on a resected distal femur surface of both a right and left knee joint. |
| US09993344B2 |
Patient-modified implant
An orthopedic implant includes a first portion including at least one feature modified to be patient-specific and match the anatomy of a specific patient from a three-dimensional digital image of a patient's joint using computer modeling. The orthopedic implant includes a non-custom inner bone-engaging surface including a plurality of planar surfaces configured for engagement with non-custom bone cuts. |
| US09993338B2 |
Methods for retaining a prosthetic heart valve
A prosthetic valve system for replacing a native aortic valve exhibiting regurgitation comprises a support structure and a transcatheter heart valve (THV) that is separate from the support structure. The support structure is radially collapsible and expandable, and deployable on an outflow side of the native aortic valve, circumscribing the native leaflets of the aortic valve. The THV is radially collapsible and expandable, and deployable in an annulus of the native aortic valve to frictionally engage the native leaflets between an interior surface of the support structure and the THV. |
| US09993335B2 |
Variable resolution eye mounted displays
A display device (e.g., in a contact lens) is mounted on the eye. The eye mounted display contains multiple sub-displays, each of which projects light to different retinal positions within a portion of the retina corresponding to the sub-display. Additionally, a “locally uniform resolution” mapping may be used to model the variable resolution of the eye. Accordingly, various aspects of the display device may be based on the locally uniform resolution mapping. For example, the light emitted from the sub-displays may be based on the locally uniform resolution mapping. |
| US09993327B2 |
Urological device having a bladder retainer and a valve
A urological device includes a valve support stem, a bladder retainer, and a urological valve. The valve support stem is adapted for placement in a urethra of a user and extends between a proximal end and a distal end. The bladder retainer is adapted for placement in a bladder of the user. The bladder retainer is connected to the valve support stem at a support stem location between the proximal end and the distal end of the valve support stem. The bladder retainer is formed as a wall of material extending radially outwardly from the valve support stem, with a proximal surface of the wall forming an acute angle relative to the valve support stem. The urological valve is disposed in the bladder retainer at a location proximal to the support stem location and proximal to the proximal surface of the wall. |
| US09993325B2 |
Embolic protection systems
An embolic protection device comprising an expandable structure and a catheter. The catheter has a distal region and a working channel dimensioned to slideably receive an interventional device. The expandable structure is attached to the distal region of the catheter. The expandable structure has an expandable working channel extension and a working channel opening, the expandable working channel extension has a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the working channel extension is attached to a distal end of the working channel, and the distal end of the working channel extension forms the working channel opening. The working channel opening is disposed proximate an exterior surface of the expandable structure when the expandable structure is expanded. The working channel, working channel extension, and the working channel opening form a continuous lumen. |
| US09993316B2 |
Bracket system
A bracket system for orthodontic appliances including a bracket combinatorial library having a plurality of brackets each interchangeably fixedly mountable to each of a plurality of teeth within a dentition group in a dental arch, whereby the plurality of brackets can be configured to provide incremental variation in tipping force moments, in-out force moments, and torqueing force moments over the entire useful range of orthodontic mechanics, allowing an orthodontic practitioner to prescribe a combination of tipping force moments, in-out force moments, and torqueing force moments unique for each tooth in relation to the plurality of teeth of a patient. |
| US09993315B2 |
Removable lingual-vestibular dental alignment device and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to a removable lingual-vestibular dental alignment device comprising an assembly of independent caps (12). The inner part of each cover (12) includes a fissure (14) for coupling to a fixing element (21, 24, and 27) adhered to the tooth (20) and outer elements (13) facilitating the passage of the dental arch (16) having a circular, square or rectangular section. The invention also relates to a method for the production of the caps (12) that includes scanning the mold of the denture and working on a virtual mold in order to include the corrective elements. The caps (12, 35) are produced after printing the result of the denture (9) with the different elements and subsequent stamping method or from the printing of a file corresponding to a virtual cap produced on the virtual denture (8) that includes the virtual cuboids (4) and virtual half-spheres (5). |
| US09993307B2 |
Robotic surgery system and surgical instrument
A robotic surgery system includes a robot and an instrument assembly. The instrument assembly includes a drive unit with at least one rotary drive having an electric motor and a drive shaft that has a coupling part for coupling to a drive shaft of the instrument; an instrument including an instrument shaft and a drive shaft that has a coupling part for coupling to a drive shaft of the drive unit; and an instrument interface including a sheath that encompasses the drive unit. In order to detachably couple an instrument module to an instrument part of a surgical instrument, an electromagnet in a magnet assembly of the instrument module is activated or deactivated, a permanent magnet of said magnet assembly is moved into a locking position and/or an angular position of a coupled counter element assembly of the instrument part is detected by an angle sensor of the instrument module. |
| US09993306B2 |
Methods and devices for diagnosing, monitoring, or treating medical conditions through an opening through an airway wall
Methods and devices for diagnosing, monitoring, and/or treating tissue through an opening or port through an airway wall are provided herein. |
| US09993304B2 |
Visualization of catheter of three-dimensional ultrasound
An image-guided system includes an X-ray imaging device for generating one or more X-ray images illustrating a tool within an anatomical region, and an ultrasound imaging device for generating an ultrasound image illustrating the tool within the anatomical region. The image-guided system further includes a tool tracking device for visually tracking the tool within the anatomical region. In operation, the tool tracking device localizes a portion of the tool as located within the ultrasound image responsive to an identification of the portion of the tool as located within the X-ray image(s), and executes an image segmentation of an entirety of the tool as located within the ultrasound image relative to a localization of the portion of the tool as located within the ultrasound image. |
| US09993302B2 |
Automated vessel repair system, devices and methods
Systems, devices and automated methods for minimally invasive surgery. A device is fabricated of bio-compatible semiconductor elements, and can be assembled, delivered, navigated and implanted by automated methods, using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) technology. |
| US09993299B2 |
Sharps container and medical instruments tray bracket, fastener and support system
Apparatus and systems herein support sharps containers and medical instruments trays, brackets, fasteners or holders on a mayo cart. Embodiments include an apparatus for attaching to a mayo cart to support a detachably mounted container, bracket or holder. A first portion has an arm extended to approximately the distance from the mayo cart vertical support pole to an outer edge of a mayo cart tray. A second portion attaches to the vertical pole proximate one end of the apparatus. A third portion attaches with the detachable container, bracket or holder proximate the opposite end of the apparatus. Embodiments may also include a detachable container, bracket or holder comprising an attachment portion to receive the third portion of the support apparatus for supportively attaching to the mayo cart. The support apparatus arm may also be extended to an adjustable length for attaching the container, bracket or holder with the mayo cart. |
| US09993295B2 |
Microwave ablation catheter and method of utilizing the same
A method for treating tissue through a branched luminal network of a patient is provided. A pathway to a point of interest in branched luminal network of a patient is generated. An extended working channel is advanced transorally into the branched luminal network and along the pathway to the point of interest. The extended working channel may be positioned in a substantially fixed orientation at the point interest. A tool is advanced though the extended working channel to the point of interest. Tissue at the point of interest is treated. |
| US09993292B2 |
Shock wave balloon catheter with multiple shock wave sources
An apparatus includes a balloon adapted to be placed adjacent a calcified region of a body. The balloon is inflatable with a liquid. The apparatus further includes a shock wave generator within the balloon that produces shock waves that propagate through the liquid for impinging upon the calcified region adjacent the balloon. The shock wave generator includes a plurality of shock wave sources distributed within the balloon. |
| US09993290B2 |
Systems and methods for performing endometrial ablation
A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus is provided, which can include any number of features. The method can include the steps of inserting a uterine device into the uterus and performing a uterine integrity test to determine that the uterus is intact and not perforated. If it is determined that the uterus is not perforated, a patency test can be performed to determine that the uterine device is not clogged or embedded in tissue. If the uterus is intact and the device is not clogged or embedded in tissue, the uterus can be treated with the uterine device, e.g., uterine ablation. Systems for performing these methods are also disclosed. |
| US09993287B2 |
System configured to provide controlled depth of hemostasis
An electrosurgical device is provided and includes a handset having a shaft extending therefrom. The electrosurgical device includes a pair of electrodes disposed at a distal end of the shaft. One or more sensors are in operable communication with the pair of electrodes to detect a pressure applied thereto. The amount of electrosurgical energy that is transmitted to the pair of electrodes is proportional to the amount of pressure that is applied to the pair of electrodes and detected by the sensor. |
| US09993286B2 |
High-frequency surgical device
A high-frequency surgical device for treating a tissue surface, device having an electrode device, in which a first electrode is formed on a working surface intended for contact with the tissue, and having a high-frequency generator, to the one pole of which the first electrode can be connected for operation. The surgical device is wherein a second electrode is formed on the working surface which electrode can be connected to the same pole, wherein a control device is connected to this and is designed initially to connect the first electrode and then to switch on the second electrode. |
| US09993282B2 |
Plasma directed electron beam wound care system apparatus and method
A plasma generating device that utilizes a cold plasma to contain and direct a stream of electrons with a hand held nozzle to enhance healing of wounds and skin surface abnormalities, and to kill pathogens on skin surfaces in humans and animals wounds, abnormalities and pathogens. |
| US09993281B2 |
Method and apparatus for gastrointestinal tract ablation for treatment of obesity
Devices and methods for ablating tissue in the wall of various organs of the gastrointestinal tract of a patient in order to cure or ameliorate metabolic pathophysiological conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes mellitus are provided. Ablational treatment of target areas may be fractional or partial, rendering a post-treatment portion of target tissue ablated and another portion that is substantially intact. Fractional ablation is achieved by controlling the delivery of ablational energy across the surface area being treated, and controlling the depth of energy penetration into tissue. Surface area control of energy delivery may controlled by the spatial pattern of distributed ablation elements or by the selective activation of a subset of a dense pattern of ablation elements. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees. |
| US09993278B2 |
Co-access bipolar ablation probe
A method of treating abnormal tissue within a patient includes positioning a delivery cannula within the patient, the delivery cannula having a first electrode disposed on its distal end; introducing an ablation probe through the cannula and out an open distal end thereof, so that a second ablation electrode carried on the ablation probe contacts abnormal tissue within the patient; conveying ablation energy between the first and second ablation electrodes to ablate the abnormal tissue; and introducing a separate medical element, whether a device or a therapeutic agent, through the cannula before or after the ablation process. |
| US09993276B2 |
Bone screws and methods of use thereof
The invention features improved bone screws, a delivery manifold for delivering a flowable medium to a bone screw, and washers for use with the bone screw to provide compressive fixation. The invention also features methods of treatment using the bone screws, washers, and/or delivery manifold, and kits that include the same. |
| US09993275B2 |
Surgical locking screw
The invention relates to a surgical locking screw for fastening bone parts in the event of a heel fracture, comprising a front end, a rear driving end having a drive for turning the locking screw, and an external thread, which has a constant thread pitch continuously over the axial extent of the external thread, wherein a major diameter of the external thread is constant in a first axial segment of the locking screw and increases with increasing distance from the front end in a second axial segment adjacent to the first axial segment in the direction of the rear end, wherein a minor diameter of the external thread is constant in the first and second axial segments, wherein the external thread extends, at least approximately, axially continuously over the entire axial extent of the locking screw, and wherein the minor diameter of the external thread extends over the entire axial extent of the external thread. |
| US09993273B2 |
Bone plate and tracking device using a bone plate for attaching to a patient's anatomy
A plate for attaching to an anatomic structure. The plate comprises a top surface opposite a bottom surface. An opening through the top and bottom surfaces is configured to receive a fastener to attach the plate to the anatomic structure. The plate comprises spikes configured to penetrate the anatomic structure. With the fastener, the spikes prevent rotational movement of the body relative to the anatomic structure. The bottom surface is concave between the spikes and defines a space configured to accommodate portions of the anatomic structure. Bone pad surfaces are configured to prevent further penetration of the spikes into the anatomic structure when in contact the same. A tracking device for a surgical navigational system can comprise a tracking head coupled to the plate with a mounting arm. The plate, when attached to the anatomic structure, prevents movement of the tracking device relative to the anatomic structure. |
| US09993270B2 |
Bone fastener and methods of use
A bone fastener includes a first portion that defines a longitudinal axis and includes an inner surface defining an implant cavity. A second portion that includes a first end and a second end configured to penetrate tissue. A retainer includes a wall having a first end surface and a second end surface. The wall including at least one first elongated cavity and at least one second elongated cavity. The first cavity includes a gap of the first end surface and the second cavity including a gap of the second end surface. The wall further includes an inner surface disposed about the first end. Systems and methods are disclosed. |
| US09993267B2 |
Orthopedic implant
An orthopedic device includes a fixator body having a first part and a second part that are connected by a joint and having an internally threaded bore extending longitudinally therethrough. A first pair of opposed longitudinally extending slots is provided in the first part and a second pair of opposed longitudinally extending slots is provided in the second part. A first and second pin-holders are received within and threadably engage the internally threaded bore of the first part and the second part, respectively, and are configured to removably hold a first and second sets of one or more bone fixation pins extending through the first and second pairs of opposed longitudinally extending slots, respectively. |
| US09993265B2 |
Percuscopic access device and cleaning obturator
A percuscopic access device is disclosed. The percuscopic access device has a hollow shaft with a proximal opening and a distal opening. The percuscopic access device also has one or more barrier ridges on the outside of the hollow shaft. The percuscopic access device also has one or more recesses on the inside of the hollow shaft and in communication with the distal opening. A cleaning obturator for use with the percuscopic access device is also disclosed. The cleaning obturator and percuscopic access device may be combined as a surgical apparatus. The cleaning obturator has a guide rod having a proximal end and a distal end. The cleaning obturator also has a plugging tip on the distal end. The cleaning obturator further has one or more swab guides proximal to the plugging tip. |
| US09993261B2 |
Sensor systems for skin graft harvesting
Skin graft harvesting systems and methods are disclosed that utilize sensors to automate the harvesting of skin grafts or assist a user in deciding when the skin graft is ready to be harvested. Such systems and methods can reduce the burden of visual observation and ensure greater reliability and consistency of the grafts. The invention is particularly useful with harvesters that rely upon suction and/or heating to raise a plurality of small or “micro” blisters simultaneously. |
| US09993259B2 |
Systems, devices, and methods for accessing body tissue
Systems, devices and methods to access and/or treat targeted body tissue (e.g., tendon tissue, ligament tissue, muscle tissue, bony tissue, and the like) under the guidance of ultrasound imaging equipment are described. Such systems can permit the intra-operative identification of the targeted tissue and the ability to deliver the appropriate instrumentation to that tissue. |
| US09993257B2 |
Clot retrieval device for ischemic stroke treatment
A clot removal device has a segment that has two main struts that serve as a frame for holding a plurality of secondary struts. Each of the two main struts has a proximal end that is connected at a proximal point of the segment and extends along a generally circumferential path, with each main strut terminating at a separate connecting point that is distal from the proximal point. The connecting points are connected to each other to form a generally tubular structure defining an inner lumen. The plurality of secondary struts forms a lattice of cells, with each cell surrounded by four secondary struts. Two generally straight distal struts are connected to the lattice of cells at a distal end of the segment, and are connected to each other to form a distal point. A distal opening is defined by the cells adjacent the distal struts, the distal opening communicating with the lumen and terminating at the proximal point. |
| US09993255B2 |
Ankle replacement system and method
A system includes a guide arm, a ratchet arm frame configured to be coupled to the guide arm, a ratchet arm configured to be coupled to the ratchet arm frame, and a sagittal sizing guide body configured to be coupled to the ratchet arm. The sagittal sizing guide body includes a first radiopaque object disposed at a first position and a second radiopaque object disposed at a second position that is spaced apart from the first position. The first radiopaque object has a length that corresponds to a length of a second prosthesis component. When the surgical alignment system is positioned for use on a patient, the first radiopaque object identifies a location at which a first resection of a first bone is to be performed. The second radiopaque object has a profile that corresponds to a profile of a first prosthesis component for installation on a second bone. |
| US09993251B2 |
Anastomosis devices
Implantable medical devices for connecting tissue layers, such as for connecting a gallbladder and a portion of a gastrointestinal tract to create an anastomosis, include a tubular structure having a plurality of apposition portions, a central region, and a covering material. The devices are endoscopically deployable and may include open cells or undulating edges that facilitate a secure connection between the tissue structures. |
| US09993250B2 |
Device for protecting the rectal anastomosis
The present invention relates to a device for protecting rectal anastomosis. The device of the present invention is a double type leakage prevention system composed of micro-villi of a head filter and a triple lumen catheter, and thus minimizes contamination of the anastomotic area from intestinal contents, thereby enabling successful healing of the rectal anastomotic area. The device of the present invention has a main tube with side holes, and thus the intestinal contents, even when passing through the head filter, are sucked into the main tube through the side holes, so that the intestinal contents can be effectively drained while being diverted from the anastomotic area. The device of the present invention is inserted through the anus after surgery and thus involves less risk of additional complications due to the installation of the device, and has advantages of low manufacturing costs due to the simplification of the structure and convenient use and handling. Furthermore, the device of the present invention serves as an existing support for protecting anastomosis, thereby alleviating patient discomfort due to anastomotic leakage. |
| US09993247B2 |
Apparatus for fixing sheet-like materials to a target tissue
A device for attaching a sheet-like implant to a target tissue. The device includes a fastener push rod including a first portion, a second portion and a force limiting mechanism operably coupled between the first portion and the second portion. A fastener is carried by the second portion of the fastener push rod. The force limiting mechanism transmits longitudinal movement of the first portion to the second portion while the forces applied to the fastener by the fastener push rod are less than a predetermined value such that longitudinal movement of the first portion of the fastener push rod causes substantially equivalent longitudinal movement of the second portion. The force limiting mechanism allows relative longitudinal motion between the first and second portions while the forces applied to the fastener are equal to or greater than the predetermined value such that the application of undue forces to the fastener is prevented. |
| US09993246B1 |
Medical device bending devices and methods of use
Medical device bending devices and methods of use are disclosed herein. An embodiment includes a body, a handle in rotatable relationship with the body, and a head that is coupled with the handle in such a way that when the handle is rotated the head is drawn at least partially into the body and towards the handle. A terminal end of the body that is opposite of the handle and the head cooperate as a vise that bends opposing arms of a surgical staple from an inwardly angled configuration to a parallel configuration (or at angles therebetween) when a crown of the surgical staple is clamped in the vise. |
| US09993242B2 |
Suture anchor management
A suture management device includes a handle defining a first elongate channel. The first elongate channel extends about a longitudinal circumference of the handle. A shaft extends distally from the handle. A suture anchor is coupled to a distal end of the shaft. A suture is configured to extend from the suture anchor proximally along the shaft and into the first elongate channel defined by the handle. A door integrally can be formed with the handle. The suture extends into an area between the door and the handle. The door is configured to maintain tension on the suture when in a closed position. |
| US09993239B2 |
Surgical retractor system
A surgical retractor system having a frame and a plurality of arms connected thereto is disclosed. At least one arm is moveable relative to the frame and the relative movement is constrained to a direction along the longitudinal axis of the arm. At least one retractor blade is removably connected to each of the plurality of arms. The blade is fixably rotatable about an axis normal to the longitudinal axis of the arm to which it is connected. |
| US09993237B2 |
Articulating suturing device and method
Devices, systems, and methods for suturing of body lumens allow the suturing of vascular puncture sites located at the distal end of a percutaneous tissue tract. An elongated articulated foot of the device can be inserted through the penetration and actuated so that the foot extends along the lumenal axis. The foot can carry suturing attachment cuffs with one end of the cuff adapted to receive a needle, while the other end receives suture. A portion of the foot and/or lumen of the shaft can receive a portion of the suture and can include friction reducing structure that aid with movement of the sutured during removal of the cuffs from within the penetration. |
| US09993236B2 |
Hemostatic device and its methods of use
A hemostatic device for sealing a puncture of a vessel includes a first tube defining a first lumen. The first lumen is configured to receive a guidewire and a flow of a fluid therethrough. The hemostatic device also includes a second tube circumscribing at least a portion of the first tube and at least partially defining a second lumen. The hemostatic device further includes a substantially rigid stopper coupled to a distal end of the second tube. The stopper defines a stopper lumen that receives the first tube therethrough in an interference fit. A first opening is defined in a side wall of the first tube and positioned distally relative to the stopper. At least one injection groove defined in an outer surface of the stopper cooperates with the distal end of the second tube to define at least one second opening in flow communication with the second lumen. |
| US09993233B2 |
Large capacity biopsy forceps
Biopsy forceps devices used to obtain tissue samples from a patient using an endoscopic system include larger cup size, longer jaw length, a squared front face, a tapered jaw design, and an offset pivot to enable taking a larger sample size. The forceps include a drive wire attached to the jaws by linkages having pins slidable within slots on the jaws of the forceps, providing the offset pivot point. |
| US09993232B2 |
Biopsy with marker device and method
A biopsy device to remove tissue from a patient and place a marker in the patient. The device includes a needle with an opening where tissue enters. The tissue which enters the opening is cut and stored in the device. After the desired number of tissue samples are obtained, a marker is released from the same needle opening. The biopsy sampling and marker release are integrated for one hand operation in a single device. |
| US09993231B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for navigating a biopsy tool to a target location and obtaining a tissue sample using the same
A biopsy tool includes an elongated flexible body, a sensor assembly, and a screw member. The sensor assembly is disposed within the elongated flexible body towards the distal end thereof. The sensor assembly includes a location sensor(s) configured to enable detection of a location of the sensor assembly. The screw member is coupled to the distal end of elongated flexible body, extends distally from the elongated flexible body, and is positioned distally of the sensor assembly. The screw member defines a helical configuration having a hollow interior and is configured for simultaneous rotation relative to tissue and advancement into tissue to obtain a tissue sample. |
| US09993229B2 |
Specimen retrieval device
A suture loop assembly is provided for securing a specimen collection bag in a closed condition. The suture loop assembly generally includes a length of suture material forming a distal loop and a one-way ferrule for securing the distal loop in a closed condition about an upper end of the specimen collection bag. A specimen retrieval device is also provided for use with the suture loop assembly. |
| US09993227B2 |
Ultrasound diagnosis device and ultrasound image generation method
In an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, a vascular wall tracker tracks pulsation-originated vascular wall movement based on reception signals obtained through transmission and reception of ultrasonic beams by an ultrasound probe to and from a subject, and a pulsating timing determiner determines pulsating timing by detecting pulsation-originated periodic changes in the vascular wall movement tracked by the vascular wall tracker in each of sound rays, obtaining a detection time point as a pulsating timing candidate in each of the sound rays, and statistically analyzing pulsating timing candidates in the respective sound rays within a single pulse duration. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus can accurately measure the state of a blood vessel merely using information obtained through ultrasound examination without electrocardiographic waveforms. |
| US09993226B2 |
Device and method for detecting skin to muscle depth by simultaneous detection of ultrasonic depth sensor and force sensor
The hand-held device detects the distance between a muscle and an outer skin layer in a body by impacting the outer surface of the skin and detecting the distance to the muscle from that point of engagement. The device includes a first end including a force sensor configured to detect the force of an impact of the first end to an associated body part. The device further includes a distance sensor provided at the first end configured to detect the distance between a skin outer layer and a muscle; and a main body configured to receive a hand. The detection device includes a controller and processor to detect the impact force and distance between the skin outer layer and muscle at engagement. The device may be used in a method of determining muscle depth and/or location in connection with the prescription and/or administration of anaphylaxis medications by auto injector. |
| US09993224B2 |
Ultrasound systems and methods for automated fetal heartbeat identification
Ultrasound systems and methods provide a workflow to automatically identify a fetal heartbeat. A region of interest (ROI) is identified in an ultrasound image and an ROI is identified that contains the fetal heart. The ultrasound system produces spatially different M-mode lines associated with the ROI. The ultrasound system can identify a fetal heartbeat by tracking the changing position of the heart wall and estimate the fetal heart rate, e.g. by measuring from peak-to-peak of two subsequent waves. The echo signals for the M-mode lines can also be ranked according to the likely presence of a fetal heartbeat in the echo data. |
| US09993218B2 |
Method for projection and back-projection for image processing, and image processing apparatus therefor
An image processing method of an image processing apparatus includes projecting centers of pixels of a pixel grid onto a preset common axis, mapping a boundary of a detector cell comprised in the detection unit on the preset common axis, and determining a detector value based on the projecting the centers of the pixels onto the preset common axis and the mapping the boundary of the detector cell on the preset common axis. |
| US09993216B2 |
Creating a resultant image for a specifiable, virtual x-ray quanta energy distribution
A method for creating a resultant image for a specifiable, virtual x-ray quanta energy distribution includes capturing a first image dataset of the patient, capturing at least one second image dataset of the patient, and specifying a virtual x-ray quanta energy distribution. The method also includes establishing a spatial density distribution of the patient for at least two materials based on the first image dataset and the at least one second image dataset. The method includes creating a third image dataset of the patient based on the specified virtual x-ray quanta energy distribution and the established spatial material density distributions. The third image dataset represents an x-ray attenuation distribution of the patient corresponding to the specified virtual x-ray quanta energy distribution. The method also includes creating the virtual image from the third image dataset. |
| US09993213B2 |
X-ray imaging apparatus and X-ray imaging system
An X-ray imaging apparatus displays a bone or soft tissue image of an X-ray image, which corresponds to a region selected by a user, thereby reducing a diagnosis time. In addition, an X-ray imaging system transmits a first energy X-ray image and a second energy X-ray image to a central image management system, and a user control apparatus receives the images from the central image management system and displays a bone or soft tissue image corresponding to the selected region, thereby reducing burden imposed on server capacity of the central image management system as well as reducing a diagnosis time. |
| US09993212B2 |
X-ray photography device
A cross section obtained by cutting an X-ray beam at a time of taking projection data from the X-ray beam detected by an X-ray sensor, with a plane, which is perpendicular to the central axis of the X-ray beam and runs through the central axis of a photographic region, is defined as a photography specification surface. The number of the photography specification surface per unit area in a plane, as the photographic region is viewed from a point in the direction along the central axis of the photographic region, is defined as overlap density of the projection data. A controller of an X-ray photography device executes a leveling control which levels the overlap density of the projection data between at an outer portion and inner portion of the photographic region. Thus, an X-ray photographic device is provided that is capable of improving the image quality in the entire photographic region. |
| US09993209B1 |
Dynamically monitoring environmental and physiological characteristics to generate a medicine ingestion alarm
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a system dynamically monitors a patient's physiological condition and location information to generate an alarm signal to enable the patient to timely administer a health substance. Initially, the system monitors location information of a health substance and the patient and physiological information of the patient. A processor in the system determines a predicted time when the patient may attain a physiological condition for receiving the health substance and may further determine a transit time for the patient to travel to a location of the health substance. Based on the predicted and transit times, the system issues an alarm signal to the patient prior to the predicted time. Embodiments of the present invention further include a method and computer program product for monitoring a patient's physiological condition and location information to generate an alarm signal in substantially the same manner described above. |
| US09993207B2 |
Medical monitoring hub
The present disclosure includes a medical monitoring hub as the center of monitoring for a monitored patient. The hub includes configurable medical ports and serial ports for communicating with other medical devices in the patient's proximity. Moreover, the hub communicates with a portable patient monitor. The monitor, when docked with the hub provides display graphics different from when undocked, the display graphics including anatomical information. The hub assembles the often vast amount of electronic medical data, associates it with the monitored patient, and in some embodiments, communicates the data to the patient's medical records. |
| US09993206B2 |
System for characterizing brain condition
A sensitive measure of brain condition simultaneously evaluates multiple measurements of water diffusion in brain tissue combined so as to correct for covariance between the different data types of the multipoint measurements and compares the multipoint measurements to a corresponding multipoint measure representing normal brain tissue to provide a distance indicating a likelihood of atypical brain conditions. |
| US09993201B2 |
Wearable device
A wearable device includes a main body, and a strap connected to the main body, the strap being configured to be flexible. The wearable device further includes a light source disposed in the strap, the light source being configured to emit light onto a surface of a user. The wearable device further includes a spectrum portion disposed in the main body, and an optical waveguide disposed in the strap, the optical waveguide being configured to receive the emitted light traveling into and out from the surface, and transmit the received light to the spectrum portion. The wearable device further includes a detector disposed in the main body, the detector being configured to detect the transmitted light dispersing through the spectrum portion. |
| US09993199B2 |
Textile blank with seamless knitted electrode system
A textile-based electrode system includes a first fabric layer having an inner and an outer surface. The inner surface includes a knitted electrode configured to be placed in contact with the skin of a user. A second fabric layer is disposed and configured to contact the outer surface of the first fabric layer. The second fabric layer includes a knitted conductive pathway configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted electrode. Furthermore, a third fabric layer is configured and disposed to contact the second fabric layer. A connector is disposed on the third fabric layer and is configured to be electrically coupled to the knitted conductive pathway. The second fabric layer can be folded about a first fold axis and the third fabric layer can be folded about a second fold axis to place the second fabric layer in contact with the first fabric layer and the third fabric layer. |
| US09993195B2 |
Personalized sleep disturbance monitoring apparatus and method with correlation of sleep signals and ambiance disturbance signal
The invention relates to a sleep disturbance monitoring apparatus (1) for monitoring a sleep disturbance of a person. An ambience disturbance profile, which describes which levels and/or changes of an ambient signal, which is, for example, a temperature signal or a noise signal, are related to disturbed sleep, is amended depending on a correlation between the ambience signal and a sleep signal which is indicative of the quality of the sleep of the person. After the ambience disturbance profile has been amended, an environmental disturbance factor, which disturbs the sleep, is determined based on a comparison of an actual ambient signal with the amended ambience disturbance profile, wherein information regarding the determined environmental disturbance factor is output to the person on an output unit. This allows providing personalized information regarding environmental sleep disturbance factors, i.e. the information considers the individual susceptibility of a person for environmental disturbances during sleep. |
| US09993194B2 |
Sleepiness calculation device
A sleepiness calculation device is provided. In a smartphone, I/F obtains heart rate of the subject measured by a heartbeat sensor and measurement time, determines active state of a subject in the state discriminant section, and send it to a server. Next, in the server, a correction section obtains sleepiness baseline heart rate from a sleepiness baseline heart rate table storing sleepiness baseline heart rate of the subject for each active state according to an active state sent from the smartphone. Next, the sleepiness baseline heart rate obtained by the correction section is corrected based on fatigue degree, sleep time, and state of meals. Thereafter, the corrected sleepiness baseline heart rate (correction sleepiness baseline heart rate) is sent to the smartphone. Sleepiness level calculation section of the smartphone calculates sleepiness level of the subject based on correction sleepiness baseline heart rate and heart rate obtained by I/F. |
| US09993189B2 |
Personal diagnostic device having a fluidic circuit with a plurality of analysis chambers
Personal diagnostic devices including diagnostic patches (bio-patches) and interactive medical bracelets (bio-bracelets) are provided with a skin/patch interface, at least one analysis layer, a signal processing layer, and a user output interface. Embodiments of the interactive diagnostic devices may include micro-fluidic circuits with reaction chambers, analysis chambers, mixing cambers, and various pre-disposed chemistries or reagents for performing a wide verity of tests by transdermal transport of blood or perspiration. Sample collection chambers for the fluidic circuit may include minimally invasive tubules that penetrate the skin surface to acquire blood samples from capillaries near the epidermis. Alternate implementations of the personal diagnostic device may be equipped with logic processing, input/output devices, acoustic microphones, cryogenic circuits, embedded processors, electrical control circuitry, and battery current sources or photovoltaic sources of electrical power. |
| US09993188B2 |
Analyte sensor and apparatus for insertion of the sensor
An apparatus for insertion of a medical device in the skin of a subject is provided. |
| US09993187B2 |
Electrochemical and luminescent sensor structures integrated on common substrate
A sensor arrangement for detecting information indicative of a physiological substance in a body material of a physiological subject, wherein the sensor arrangement comprises a substrate, a first sensor structure connected to the substrate and being configured for sensing the physiological substance electrochemically, and a second sensor structure connected to the substrate and being configured for sensing the physiological substance by a luminescence detection. |
| US09993186B2 |
Oxygen enhancing membrane systems for implantable devices
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for increasing oxygen availability to implantable devices. The preferred embodiments provide a membrane system configured to provide protection of the device from the biological environment and/or a catalyst for enabling an enzymatic reaction, wherein the membrane system includes a polymer formed from a high oxygen soluble material. The high oxygen soluble polymer material is disposed adjacent to an oxygen-utilizing source on the implantable device so as to dynamically retain high oxygen availability to the oxygen-utilizing source during oxygen deficits. Membrane systems of the preferred embodiments are useful for implantable devices with oxygen-utilizing sources and/or that function in low oxygen environments, such as enzyme-based electrochemical sensors and cell transplantation devices. |
| US09993185B2 |
Plasmonics nanostructures for multiplexing implantable sensors
Methods and systems for nanopillar sensors are described. Nanopillars can be defined on a substrate, and metal deposited on the nanopillars. A thermal treatment can reflow the metal on the nanopillars forming metallic bulbs on the top end of the nanopillars. These structures can have enhanced optical detection when functionalized with biological agents, or can detect gases, particles and liquids through interaction with the metal layer on the nanopillars. |
| US09993176B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting biosignal
A biosignal detecting apparatus and method thereof are disclosed, including a ring-type main body, and a pair of electrodes configured to be in contact with a finger of a user and to detect a biosignal of the user. An electrode of the pair of electrodes is disposed along an inner surface of the main body. |
| US09993175B2 |
Pulsed ultra-wideband sensor and the method thereof
A pulsed ultra-wideband sensor comprises a control unit designed for forming a time delay of a synchronizing pulse, a probing signal forming path, a transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, a path of a probing signal transmitter, with an output of said path being connected to the transmitting antenna, a path of a return signal receiver, with an input of the path being connected to the receiving antenna, and a first electronic switch. The input of the first electronic switch is connected to the output of the path for forming a probing signal, and its outputs—to the input of the path of the probing signal transmitter and to the path of a return signal receiver. The outputs of the channels for processing a return signal, which are parts of the path of the return signal receiver, are connected to the path for calculating a respiratory rate and a heart rate. |
| US09993174B2 |
Deriving individual thoracic parameters of a subject
A method of deriving one or more individual thoracic parameters of a subject. The method comprises instructing a subject to perform a thoracic volume manipulation, receiving a plurality of measurements of a plurality of EM signals from a thoracic intrabody area of lungs of the subject during the thoracic volume manipulation, deriving a plurality of thoracic volume values at a plurality of different intervals during the thoracic volume manipulation so that each the thoracic volume value correspond with another of a plurality of estimated thoracic volumes achieved during the thoracic volume manipulation, and calculating at least one individual thoracic parameter of the subject by combining between the plurality of measurements and the plurality of thoracic volume values. |
| US09993170B1 |
Non-invasive intracranial pressure system
Non-invasive intracranial pressure detection and/or monitoring and use of data with respect thereto. Illustratively, with respect to a method, there can be a method to digitally produce and communicate intracranial pressure data from skull deformation electric signals, the method including: receiving, from at least one sensor, detected skull deformation electric signals at electrical equipment configured to transform and process the skull deformation signals that are received; transforming and processing, by the electrical equipment, the received skull deformation electric signals to produce digital intracranial pressure data; and outputting, by the electrical equipment, the digital intracranial pressure data via an output device operably associated with the electrical equipment to render the digital intracranial pressure data. |
| US09993169B2 |
Method and apparatus of assessment of access flow in hemodialysis patients by video imaging processing
Systems and methods are provided for assessing patient blood flow using video image processing. According to one aspect, a method of analyzing at least one blood flow characteristic of a patient includes capturing a video including a plurality of frames of an arterio-venous (AV) fistula on the patient; amplifying motion in the video to produce a motion-amplified video; determining a difference in intensity between consecutive frames in the motion-amplified video to produce a time-function of an amplitude of the optic flow representing movement in an area of interest on the patient; and determining the at least one blood flow characteristic of the patient based on the time-function. |
| US09993168B2 |
Implantable pressure monitor
There is provided an implantable pressure monitor having a fluid sack in contact with a body part of a patient where the fluid sack is retained to the body part by a pressure monitor housing that may have various attachment means. The fluid sack is filled with a liquid such as silicone oil. The pressure monitor housing has an opening that provides access to a fistula with a fluid valve that terminates through the fluid sack. A fiber optic pressure sensor is in contact with the liquid in the fluid sack by way of the fistula and fluid valve. In some embodiments of the present invention, an electronics module is incorporated with the implantable pressure monitor to provide telemetry, power, and the like. |
| US09993160B2 |
Medical device including manipulable portion with connected elongate members
A medical system may include a shaft member and a structure physically coupled to the shaft member. A portion of the shaft member may be sized to be delivered through a bodily opening leading to a bodily cavity. The structure may include at least two flexible couplings, each flexible coupling extending transversely from an intermediate portion of a respective one of at least two elongate members of the structure. The flexible coupling extending transversely from the intermediate portion of a first one of the at least two elongate members forms at least a part of a first closed loop arranged to receive a portion of the flexible coupling of a second one of the at least two elongate members therethrough to limit a spacing between the intermediate portions of the first and the second ones of the at least two elongate members. |
| US09993159B2 |
Near-infrared super-continuum lasers for early detection of breast and other cancers
A system and method for using near-infrared or short-wave infrared (SWIR) light sources for early detection and monitoring of breast cancer, as well as other kinds of cancers may detect decreases in lipid content and increases in collagen content, possibly with a shift in the collagen peak wavelengths and changes in spectral features associated with hemoglobin and water content as well. Wavelength ranges between 1000-1400 nm and 1600-1800 nm may permit relatively high penetration depths because they fall within local minima of water absorption, scattering loss decreases with increasing wavelength, and they have characteristic signatures corresponding to overtone and combination bands from chemical bonds of interest, such as hydrocarbons. Broadband light sources and detectors permit spectroscopy in transmission, reflection, and/or diffuse optical tomography. High signal-to-noise ratio may be achieved using a fiber-based super-continuum light source. Risk of pain or skin damage may be mitigated using surface cooling and focused infrared light. |
| US09993154B2 |
Eye gaze detection supporting device and eye gaze detection supporting method
An eye gaze detection supporting device includes an illuminator including a light source that performs irradiation with light, a plurality of imaging units, position detectors that detect a first position indicating a center of a pupil and a second position indicating a center of corneal reflection, from an image of an eye ball of a subject irradiated with light by the illuminator, and captured by the imaging units, and a calculator that calculates a fourth position indicating a curvature center of a cornea, based on a position of the light source, a third position on a display, the first position, and the second position. |
| US09993150B2 |
Monitoring system for monitoring head mounted device wearer
A monitoring system for monitoring the visual behavior of a wearer of a head-mounted device, the monitoring system includes: —a least one wearer's visual behavior sensor configured to sense at least one wearer's visual behavior data relating to the visual behavior of the wearer of the head-mounted device, —a communication unit associated with the at least one wearer's visual behavior sensor and configured to communicate the visual behavior data to a wearer information data generating unit, —a wearer information data generating unit configured to: —receive the wearer's visual behavior data, —store the wearer's visual behavior data, and —generate an wearer information data indicative of at least one of: wearer's vision or general health condition of the wearer or wearer's activity or wearer's authentication based, at least, on the evolution over time of the wearer's visual behavior data. |
| US09993147B2 |
Vaginal manipulator having a door with an inclined surface
A vaginal manipulator includes a shaft, a head, and a door. The head has an anterior side opposite a posterior side and includes a core fixed to the shaft and a sleeve coupled in a sliding relationship to the core. The door has a distal end that is hinged to the sleeve and a proximal end that is movable away from the core of the head. A proximal end of the core defines a proximal end of the head and a distal end of the sleeve defines a distal end of the head, and the proximal end of the core is fixed to the shaft. The core includes a ramp and a recess that is sized to receive a portion of the door, and the door includes an inclined surface that is formed such that the distal end of the door is thinner than the proximal end of the door. |
| US09993138B2 |
Rigid endoscope set
A rigid endoscope set according to the invention includes a rigid endoscope body having a first insertion portion inserted into a subject, a first channel provided in the first insertion portion and an ultrasound observation section disposed at a distal end of the first insertion portion to observe the subject, a treatment instrument guide having a second insertion portion configured to be inserted into or removed from the first channel and a second channel provided in the second insertion portion, and an optical telescope having a needle portion configured to be insertable into or removable from the second channel, a third insertion portion configured to be insertable into or removable from the first channel instead of the treatment instrument guide and an optical observation section disposed at a distal end of the third insertion portion to observe the subject. |
| US09993136B2 |
Endoscopy instrument guide port
An endoscopy instrument guider port includes a main body member where at least one surgical instrument entrance part is disposed at an upper surface, a protective tube extending downwards from the main body member, a retaining ring body fixed to a lower end portion of the protective tube, the retaining ring body being freely deformed and restored, and a control ring body disposed at a predetermined position along a length direction of the protective tube to be coiled around the protective tube through a folding motion and control a length of the protective tube. According to the present invention, the control ring body disposed at the protective tube facilitates length adjustment and traction generation of the protective tube, appropriate handling of surgical situations is possible because an upper body may be turned and separated, and surgical delays may be prevented while endoscopy operations may be made easier. |
| US09993135B2 |
Endoscopic system with electrogmagnetic interference shielding
An endoscopic system can include an endoscope shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The endoscopic system can have a sensor system that includes an electrically active sensor mounted proximate the distal end and positioned to sense at least one characteristic of an environment in which the distal end is located, a data signal transmission line connected to the sensor to transmit data signals between the sensor and a signal processor, and an electrical power transmission line connected to the sensor to transmit power to the sensor. The endoscopic system also can include a floating ground element arranged to provide an electrical reference for the sensor system. Voltage induced by an electromagnetic interference external to the endoscopic system on at least one of the data signal transmission line or electrical power line is substantially similar to the voltage induced by the electromagnetic interference on the floating ground element. |
| US09993131B2 |
Filter assembly for a dishwasher
A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, a liquid spraying system, a liquid recirculation system defining a recirculation flow path, and a liquid filtering system. The liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter disposed in the recirculation flow path to filter the liquid. |
| US09993129B2 |
Mobile floor-cleaning robot with floor-type detection
Cleaning robots may use floor-type-detection techniques as a trigger for autonomously altering various floor-cleaning characteristics. In some examples, a controller circuit of the robot is configured to determine a flooring type as a function of a signal from a motion sensor indicative of a change in pitch caused by the robot crossing a flooring discontinuity. In some examples, the controller circuit is configured to determine a flooring type based on a power draw signal corresponding to the cleaning head assembly of the robot. |
| US09993124B2 |
Cleaning toilet seats
Toilet seat cleaning devices, methods and systems are described. Toilet seat cleaning systems may include a toilet, a toilet seat, a fluid dispenser and a flow way. Toilet seats may include at least one opening and at least one surface whereon fluids from a fluid dispenser may be communicated. Fluid dispensers may include a fluid container and a dispenser mechanism. Methods of using toilet seat cleaning systems may include a user influencing the activation of a dispenser mechanism; the dispenser mechanism influencing the communication of fluid from a fluid container to a flow way; the fluid being communicated through the flow way and out of at least one opening and onto at least one surface of a toilet seat; and the fluid on the at least one surface of the toilet seat being engaged by the user in order to clean the toilet seat. |
| US09993114B2 |
Lid with check valve
A lid for a food processing device with a rotating blade within a vessel has an one-way valve for allowing air to escape the vessel. |
| US09993113B2 |
Filtration device for cooking oil
A filtration device to filter cooking oil is provided having an upper layer comprised of a filter paper and a lower layer comprised of a filter pad. The filter paper of the upper layer includes pleats defining a plurality of food particle receiving channels over a substantial portion of a central area of the filter paper. The filter pad is attached to a peripheral portion of the filter paper to form a multi-layered filtration device having a central pleated region in which the upper and the lower layers are unbonded to each other. The central pleated region is configured to accumulate food particles above a threshold size as the filter paper and filter pad cooperatively filter cooking oil during a filtration operation. Methods of making and using filtration devices are also provided. |
| US09993110B2 |
Heating appliance
A heating appliance generally includes a housing defining a food product compartment, and a rack configured to support a food product within the food product compartment. The heating appliance further includes a heating assembly disposed within the food product compartment. The heating assembly includes a heating element having a length, wherein the heating element is configured to have a temperature increase along the length during heating. The heating assembly further includes a heat distribution member disposed between the heating element and the rack, wherein the heat distribution member includes a pattern of apertures that tapers in accordance with the temperature increase of the heating element. |
| US09993108B2 |
Container holder with filtration unit for use in a nutritional preparation machine
Container holder (3) for use in a nutritional liquid preparation machine (1) for the preparation of a nutritional liquid from the mixture of ingredients contained in a container and liquid supplied by the machine in the container; said holder comprising a body with a container receiving seat (31) arranged for receiving the container (4) in a defined container sitting position and a filtration unit (12); such filtration unit comprising a liquid outlet (25) wherein the filtration unit is arranged with the container holder to be movable between a first position in which the container receiving seat (31) of the holder is uncovered for enabling the loading and unloading of the container in the container holder and a second position in which the container receiving seat (31) is covered by the filtration unit for enabling the liquid outlet (25) of the filtration unit to be positioned at the inlet side of the container (4) when a container is present in the container holder (3). |
| US09993107B2 |
Assembly for a machine for making infused beverages
The present invention relates to an assembly formed by a removable infusion unit and the supporting or locking elements thereof, for a machine for preparing beverages by extraction of a product to be infused. The assembly includes a receptacle intended to be rigidly connected to the machine and configured to removably receive the infusion unit. The assembly also includes a device for locking the unit onto the receptacle and an actuation device supported by either the unit or the receptacle and which controls the locking device and is arranged such that in a position in which the actuation device is deactivated, the locking device prevents the unit from being disconnected from the receptacle, and in a position in which the actuation device is activated, the locking device allows the unit to be disconnected from the receptacle.The invention is suitable for use in machines for preparing EXPRESSO-type beverages by extracting a product to be infused. |
| US09993105B2 |
Method of making a beverage with a controllable brewer
The present application relates to apparatus, systems, and methods of use for producing beverages. The apparatus includes components and methods for facilitating beverage production applying water or other liquid in combination with a brewing substance and controlled aeration and pressurization of a mixing vessel or column. The aeration of the water and brewing substance can be accomplished with a vacuum system, a positive pressurization system, and a combination of such systems. The apparatus, systems, and methods can be used with a variety of beverage making devices such as a device which might be used to controllably produce volumes of beverage to a reservoir. The methods include controllable aeration and pressurization of the vessel for brewing which may include controlling extraction time, steep time, active controllable agitation of the brewing substance, as well as other brewing characteristics, features, and actions. |
| US09993102B2 |
Mailbox apparatus
The present invention discloses a mailbox apparatus including: a box for accommodating mail, wherein the box includes: two horizontal tracks, each of the tracks disposed at an inner upper part of an opposite sidewall of the box; and two pins, vertically disposed at the same level, each of the pins horizontally disposed at an entry side to one of the tracks; a door having side grooves in side facets of the door positionally corresponding to the pins, wherein the door adapted to have: an open state in which the door is horizontally disposed at an upper inner side of the box, thereby allowing insertion and extraction of the mail; and a closed state in which the door is vertically disposed. Preferably, the apparatus includes: a spring mechanism for applying force on the door while being inserted into the tracks, thereby retaining the door in position upon placing into the tracks. |
| US09993097B2 |
Drinking cup having an adjustable handle
A drinking cup includes a container with an open top and defining a longitudinal axis. The container includes a neck having a plurality of first detents provided on an outer surface. A handle assembly includes a rim and at least one handle integrally formed with the rim. The rim defines an opening sized to receive the container neck. The handle assembly has a plurality of second detents shaped to mate with the first detents, wherein selective engagement of the first and second detents configured to allow incremental rotational movement of the handle assembly on the neck about the container axis. |
| US09993095B2 |
Crib shield system and other breathable apparatus
An apparatus and method for making same utilizing a breathable mesh material having a reduced suffocation resistance level for infant and toddler use. The breathable mesh material includes an inner and outer fabric that includes larger openings on the front substructure than on the back substructure and a pile substructure is integrated and extends between the front and back substructures allowing air to substantially move effectively therethrough. |
| US09993094B1 |
Rotary display hook
A hook is provided for a merchandise display including a support wall having an opening. The hook includes a base. The base includes a first wall and a second wall. The base walls are substantially parallel to each other and spaced from each other by a distance at least as great as the thickness of the support wall. The hook extends from the first wall and is adapted to retain one or more merchandise items. The first wall has a central portion and oppositely directed, substantially coplanar sections extending from the central portion. The first wall is adapted to be inserted through the support wall opening from behind the support wall such that the support wall is situated between the first wall and the second wall. The hook is then rotated relative to the support wall to secure the base of the hook to the support wall. |
| US09993092B2 |
Rail position lock
A shelving assembly, held on an associated support surface, includes an elongated cooperating member including a first end and an opposite second end. A front rail is adapted to operably connect to the first end of the cooperating member and a rear rail is adapted to operably connect to the second end of the cooperating member. The rear rail includes at least one flexible member configured to abut a bottom surface of the cooperating member to retard a lateral movement of the cooperating member in a relation to at least the rear rail. |
| US09993091B2 |
Product securement and management system
A merchandising system that improves the merchandising of product by limiting the number and the frequency with which product can be removed from, for example, a merchandising shelf. The merchandising system may include a base configured to support product and a housing configured to engage the base. The housing may comprise a top wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, and a front retaining wall mounted to the base at an angle. The system may further include a spring-urged pusher movably mounted on the base. The system may further include an opening defined by the first side wall and the front retaining wall through which product may be removed. |
| US09993090B2 |
Hook-on chair
A children's dining chair, such as for example a hook-on children's dining chair for hooking onto or otherwise attaching to a table or other support, with an improved structure and better performance. In example embodiments, the present invention further provides a hook-on chair with an enhanced clamping force. |
| US09993086B2 |
Prostatic relief cushion and method
A cushion and method provide relief of pain or discomfort in the pelvic/genital/rectal region of a person. The person is supported on a resilient cushion construct which conforms to the person's posterior profile contour configuration, while locating a plenum-like portion of a gap beneath the pelvic/genital/rectal region of the person. An airway is extended to the gap, through a basal construct located beneath the cushion construct and an air mover moves ambient air through the airway and into the plenum-like portion of the gap to provide cooling to the pelvic/genital/rectal region of the person supported on the cushion construct. |
| US09993085B1 |
Shielded seating assembly
A shielded seating assembly configured to shield a user from projectiles includes a seat. A brace is coupled to a bottom of the seat. The brace is configured to support the seat in a substantially horizontal position above a surface upon which the brace is positioned. A panel is coupled to is the seat and is configured to extend upwardly from the seat and down to the surface upon which the brace is positioned. The panel is configured to shield the user positioned on the seat from projectiles, such as a ball, directed at the panel. |
| US09993084B2 |
Sleep assist device for seated persons
A sleep assist device for use by a seated person consisting of a box-like three-sided pylon 10 that when placed on top of a seated person's lap, or on top of a suitable support surface, provides him/her with an adequate raised support for his/her head and also allows the seated person to embrace (to hug) said box-like three-sided pylon 10 by positioning his/her arms and hands over and around an embraceable volume 38 in a cozy and comfortable resting posture that, indeed, is conducive to relaxation and/or sleep. Meanwhile, a vertical back panel 14 (part of said embraceable volume 38) may contact said seated person's chest. The box-like three-sided pylon 10 when folded up for storage or transport is relatively small and lightweight (comparable in size to a periodical magazine) allowing a user to conveniently place it into: an airplane's seat back pocket, carry-on luggage, a ladies' handbag, a business briefcase or a suitcase, among others. This sleep assist device for a seated person is likely to be readily accepted by a relatively large percentage of passengers traveling by airplane, bus, train and/or in an automobile's rear seat, as well as by persons wishing to nap at their workplace, at home, while waiting at a hospital or office, or during camping or at a beach outing and, furthermore, by ailing persons confined to nursing homes that need to be seated in wheelchairs or sofas during extended periods of time. In addition, said box-like three-sided pylon 10 provides a novel, useful and unobvious medium to display: advertisements, the subject matter required on airline passenger's safety card, or business logos since its visible surfaces can be printed utilizing any of the available methods employed by the packaging industry, or may also have relevant labels affixed to its visible surfaces. |
| US09993081B1 |
Universal powered rocking system
A universal powered rocking system is disclosed with the ability to change between different styles and size chairs and different rocking motion styles in a single embodiment and with a unique mounting method to easily interchanging the universal powered rocking system with different chairs by a single user or permanently replace the feet or foundation of a chair. A universal powered rocking system with the ability to rock the chair while allowing the chair to use its original functions such as a pawl ratchet latching system and stationary style chair which have no means of manually rocking. A universal powered rocking system that the chair is constantly balanced on the rocking apparatus for operations and eliminates the jerky motion inherent to the linear motion. |
| US09993079B1 |
Hair-styling chair system
A salon styling chair includes a swiveling client chair and a stylist chair. The swiveling client chair is able to move up and down and rotate independent of the stylist chair. The stylist chair is able to move up and down and rotate independent of the swiveling client chair. A distance between the swiveling client chair and the stylist chair is able to be adjusted. |
| US09993073B2 |
Ready-to-assemble furniture
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a ready-to-assemble furniture that can be easily assembled by a user and that can be inexpensively manufactured. The ready-to-assemble furniture, in which a suitable number of wall surface component members that are adjacent with a prescribed included angle are coupled, is configured so that a coupling metal piece having a toughness couples the wall surface component members which are transitioned, by way of lifting operations by an assembler, from a pre-assembled state, which is one wall surface component member stacked on another, or which is a deployed position, to an assembled state having a prescribed included angle, wherein the coupling metal piece maintains the relative position of the wall surface component members by plastically deforming by way of bending stress generated in the coupling metal piece due to the lifting operations. |
| US09993071B2 |
Support device with two constant force springs
A support device includes an upright frame and upper and lower constant force springs. The upright frame includes upper and lower members respectively defining upper and lower receiving spaces, and an upright frame body between the upper and lower members and having two first slide grooves communicating with the upper receiving space and two second slide grooves communicating with the lower receiving space. Each of the upper and lower constant force springs includes a coiled portion disposed in a respective one of the upper and lower receiving spaces, and a free end connected to the coiled portion. First and second slide units are slidably mounted on the upright frame body. |
| US09993064B2 |
Rotatable handle attachable to an object having a longitudinal extent
A handle assembly attachable to an object includes an auxiliary handle and a hook with a pivot arm pivotably attached thereto to define a passageway for the object. The pivot arm is pivotable between a first position, allowing access to the passageway, and a plurality of second positions, adjusting the size of the passageway to secure the object therein. A pawl, attached to the pivot arm, is movable between a first position, engageable with a ratchet of the hook, and a second position, disengaged therefrom. A shank extends the hook, and a clutch operatively couples the shank to the auxiliary handle. The clutch is actuatable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The shank is moveable relative to the auxiliary handle in translation when the clutch is in the engaged position and the shank is rotatable relative to the auxiliary handle when the clutch is in the disengaged position. |
| US09993061B2 |
Backpack for smart self-balancing electric scooter
A backpack for stowing and carrying a smart self-balancing electric scooter is provided. The backpack includes a tubular shaped body defining an interior compartment sized to fit a self-balancing electric scooter compactly therein. A pocket disposed in the interior compartment receives the scooter's battery and a slot disposed in the body provides a power cord access to the interior compartment, such that the scooter may be charged while stowed in the backpack. A flame retardant layer lining the interior compartment extinguishes any fire caused by the scooter battery, while the scooter charges in the backpack. An access flap and an access collar provide access to the interior compartment for stowing the scooter. A shoulder harness enables the backpack to be carried and a retractable handle and a plurality of multidirectional wheels enable the backpack to be towed while the scooter is stowed therein. |
| US09993053B2 |
Umbrella
There is provided an umbrella (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510) moveable between an open position and a closed position, said umbrella comprising; a. a canopy framework (16, 18, 116, 118, 216, 218, 316, 318, 416, 418, 16, 518, 616, 618, 716, 718); b. a central spine (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712) configured to support the canopy framework; c. a main canopy (24, 124, 224, 324, 424, 524, 624, 724) configured to cover the canopy framework; and d. a tensioning mechanism 20, 22, 120, 122, 220, 222, 320, 322, 420, 422, 520, 522, 620, 62, 720, 722) configured to tension the main canopy about the canopy framework when the umbrella is in the open position and release the tension to the main canopy about the canopy framework to allow the umbrella to move to the closed position. |
| US09993051B2 |
Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet
A clasp for a bracelet having first and second free ends, the clasp including: a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet including an adjusting member carrying a first bracelet fastening member, and a lock having a default closed state, in which the adjusting member is fixed, and an open state, in which the adjusting member is free to slide with respect to a second bracelet fastening member to modify the useful length of the bracelet. The adjusting device is distinct from the locking member, and the lock is arranged to change from the closed state to the open state thereof by action of the user such that the adjusting member is shifted independently of the open or closed state of the clasp. The control member includes a push-piece displaceable in response to an action of the user, the push-piece being independent of the lock. |
| US09993050B2 |
Wearable electronic device having buckle
According to various embodiments, there is provided a wearable electronic device including a main body, at least one strap connected to at least one part of the main body, a buckle installed to an end portion of the strap, and a connection member for connecting the buckle and the strap. Accordingly, hardness and aesthetic feeling can be improved, while improving an assembling capability, reducing a manufacturing cost, and contributing to a slimness of the device. |
| US09993049B2 |
Slide fastener slider
There is provided a slide fastener slider. A pull tab has a rotatable region including laid-down positions and a stood-up position. Within the rotatable region of the pull tab, a locking pawl is elastically deformed to move a cover portion, and a pawl portion is arranged to be inserted into and removed from an element guide passage in accordance with movement of the cover portion. When the pull tab is completely laid down toward the shoulder mouths and rear mouth relative to the slider body, the pull tab has respective regions in which the pull tab is rotatable over a predetermined angle without exerting any load on the locking pawl. |
| US09993048B2 |
Safety harness connector assembly
A safety harness connector is provided, the safety harness connector includes a male buckle system and female buckle system. The male buckle system is configured and arranged to be coupled to at least one first webbing. The male buckle system further includes a male connection portion. The female buckle system is configured and arranged to be coupled to at least one second webbing. The female buckle system includes a female housing member having a receiving chamber to selectively receive the male connection portion of the male buckle system. The receiving chamber has a select receiving chamber depth. The female housing member further has a movement channel portion that is connected to the receiving channel. The movement channel portion has a movement channel depth that is greater than the receiving channel depth. At least a portion of the male connection portion of the male buckle system is positioned within the movement channel portion of the female housing member when the male buckle system is coupled to the female buckle system. |
| US09993045B2 |
Flip flop style sandals with interchangeable sole members
The present invention relates to an interchangeable footwear device. The device may include a flip-flop sandal design wherein the device may include interchangeable structural features to allow a user to change features as associated with a particular terrain. The interchangeable footwear device includes a gripping system to traverse a number of different terrains. The footwear may include a sole member having a thong member attached to a top of the sole and a heel strap selectively attached to the sole. The heel strap may be selectively attached to the sole with a fastener that may be manually adjusted in a secured or unsecured position to remove the heel strap from the sole. In particular, the interchangeable footwear device may include a gripping unit selectively attached to the sole member of the footwear. The gripping unit may include a toe grip pad and a heel grip pad. |
| US09993040B2 |
Detachable sweat absorbing liner
A detachable sweat absorbing liner system has left and right sweat absorbing liners. The left and right sweat absorbing liners are removably attachable to inner frontal left and right necklines of an upper garment by left and right fasteners, respectively. The left and right sweat absorbing liners each has a moisture-sensitive medication. The moisture-sensitive medication protects and improves a user's facial area upon the use of the left and right sweat absorbing liners. |
| US09993037B2 |
Post-surgical support brassiere
An article of clothing, such as a post-surgical support brassiere, may include a cup, a band configured to secure the cup to the body of a wearer of the article of clothing, and a rigid arcuate element having a lateral end and a central end and coupled to the cup so as to support the cup. The rigid arcuate element may be disposed under the cup so as to be adjustable relative to the cup, wherein the lateral end of the rigid arcuate element is adjustable so as to alter the tension applied to the body by the central end. |
| US09993033B2 |
E-cigarette personal vaporizer
A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid e-cigarette PV in which the case includes: an electrical power source for re-charging a rechargeable battery in the PV; a user-replaceable reservoir for holding e-liquid; and an electrical or electronic pump adapted to transfer e-liquid from the reservoir to a chamber in the PV, the pump delivering a pre-defined or variable quantity of e-liquid from the reservoir, and in which the case displays a visual indication of e-liquid volume remaining in the reservoir. |
| US09993031B2 |
E-cigarette personal vaporizer
A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid e-cigarette PV in which the case includes: an electrical power source for re-charging a rechargeable battery in the PV; a user-replaceable reservoir for holding e-liquid; and an electrical or electronic pump adapted to transfer e-liquid from the reservoir to a chamber in the PV, the pump delivering a pre-defined or variable quantity of e-liquid from the reservoir; and in which the case is configured to implement a nicotine reduction or cessation program. |
| US09993028B2 |
Atomizer having replaceable atomizing core and electronic cigarette having same
An exemplary atomizer includes a main body of housing, a mouthpiece, an atomizing core, an atomizing cover. The main body of housing defines a liquid chamber configured for storing tobacco liquid. The mouthpiece is detachably connected with an end of the main body of housing. The atomizing core arranged in the main body of housing. The atomizing cover is arranged in the liquid chamber. The atomizing core is arranged in the atomizing cover. The atomizing cover has a top surface, and the top surface defines at least one liquid inlet. The atomizing core includes a heating element and a liquid conducting element surrounding the heating element. The liquid conducting element is configured for absorbing tobacco liquid flowed from the at least one liquid inlet, and the heating element is configured for atomizing the tobacco liquid in the liquid conducting element. |
| US09993026B2 |
Electronic cigarette with adjustable ventilation area
An electronic cigarette comprises a suction nozzle assembly, an atomization assembly and a battery assembly. A smoke passageway is defined in the atomization assembly to discharge smoke produced by the atomization assembly. The smoke passageway is communicated to the suction nozzle assembly. A first and a second adjustment elements are sleeved on a joint of the electronic cigarette. A first and a second inlet passageways are defined in the first and second adjustment elements respectively. The second adjustment element is rotatable with respect to the first adjustment element to adjust ventilation area at a joint of the first inlet passageway and the second inlet passageway. A gear adjusting mechanism is arranged to control the ventilation area. There are advantageous effects of adjusting the air inflow rate, preventing the inlet passageway from being blocked, and avoiding changing air flow rate by a mistaken touch to the adjustment element. |
| US09993024B2 |
Battery rod and electronic cigarette
The invention relates to a battery rod and an electronic cigarette. The battery rod comprises a battery casing, a battery, a control module, and an end cover. Wires and an airflow sensor are provided on the control module. An elastic mounting base is provided within the battery casing. The elastic mounting base is provided with a through hole running along the axial direction. The control module is installed in the through hole of the elastic mounting base. An inner peripheral surface of the elastic mounting base elastically abuts against an outer peripheral surface of the control module. The wires penetrate the through hole and parts of the wires are compressed between the control module and the elastic mounting base. Compared to the prior art wherein wires pass through separate holes, the invention has a simple assembly means, reduces the product defect rate, and improves the sensitivity of the electronic cigarette. |
| US09993022B2 |
Smoking product wrapping material having improved smouldering properties
Disclosed is a smoking article wrapping material comprising a base wrapping material to which has been applied, at least in discrete zones, a composition comprising a mechanically fragmented, chemically crosslinked polysaccharide having a particle size (weighted average) in the range from 1 to 1000 μm for the dry product; a process for production thereof; and a smoking article comprising the smoking article wrapping material described. |
| US09993020B2 |
Meltable smokeless tobacco composition
A meltable smokeless tobacco composition configured for insertion into the mouth of a user is provided. The smokeless tobacco composition includes a tobacco material and a lipid having a melting point of about 36° C. to about 45° C. An associated process is also provided. The process includes melting a lipid having a melting point of about 36° C. to about 45° C. to form a molten lipid composition, mixing a tobacco material with the molten lipid composition to form a molten smokeless tobacco composition, and cooling the molten smokeless tobacco composition to form a solidified smokeless tobacco composition. |
| US09993017B2 |
Method for enhancing sweetness
A composition for enhancing sweetness includes glycan or glycopeptide derived from soy sauce. The composition has excellent sweetness enhancing properties, and particularly has a sweetening effect nearly the same as or better than those of conventional sweeteners and less calories in terms of nutritional characteristics. A sweetener composition includes the composition for enhancing sweetness and a sweetener. A food includes the composition for enhancing sweetness. A method for enhancing sweetness of a food, includes applying the sweetness enhancer composition to the food. The sweetness enhancer of the present invention is a natural product-derived substance, and contains, as an active ingredient, peptide separated from Korean traditional soy sauce aged over a long period of time, and therefore, may solve problems of conventional chemosynthesized sweetness enhancers, for example, side effects, foul taste or the like. |
| US09993016B1 |
Hands free frozen drink mixing systems
A hands free frozen drink mixer system is a frozen drink mixing system of the immersion type that enables the user to automatically and hands-free blend ingredients for a frozen drink, add flavorings while blending, and automatically shut off the blender after a programmed interval of time. The hands free frozen drink mixer system may have a mixer assembly having an elevated motor supported by a back stand that integrally connects with a base having a drip basin and removable rack. A mixer shaft having a rotary blade assembly extends vertically downward from the front bottom side of the motor, and a canister holder that is adjustable in height via a vertical track holds a mixing canister. The canister is positioned over the base which has a removable drip tray. |
| US09993014B2 |
Method and device for separating sheet-shaped objects into strip-shaped or slab-shaped object sub-units
A conveying and separating method and a device for separating sheet-shaped objects, for example preliminary chewing-gum products or intermediate chewing-gum products in the form of chewing-gum sheets, into strip-shaped or slab-shaped object sub-units. The conveying and separating method and device for separating sheet-shaped objects preferably separates sub-units one after another from each of the sheet-shaped objects at at least one weakened region on each of the sheet-shaped objects by a conveying and separating device that preferably has a revolving conveyor belt with suction elements that can be activated and deactivated. The suction elements pick up, hold, and convey the sheet-shaped object when the suction element is activated and release the sub-units when the suction element is deactivated. |
| US09993011B2 |
Cold brew filter system
A cold brew coffee filtration assembly having a closure. The closure includes a first side and a second side. The first side has a first coupling member configured to couple the closure to a first container. The second side has a second coupling member configured to couple the closure to a second container. A filter is between the first and the second coupling members. A support member supports the filter and defines an air channel extending through the support member and across the filter. A tube is configured to be connected to the support member and extend from the first side of the closure to a bottom of the first container when the first container is coupled to the first side of the closure, the tube further defining the air channel. |