| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US10248357B2 |
Data storage system with hardware-based message routing
A data storage system may have a first data storage device and a second data storage device connected with a host via a network. The network can consist of a network controller having a message module that generates a buffer progression plan and then assigns a first system message to a first buffer and first computing unit of the first data storage device and assigns a second system message to a second buffer and second computing unit of the second data storage device. The respective first and second computing units may then service the first and second system messages. |
| US10248356B2 |
Using scratch extents to facilitate copying operations in an append-only storage system
An append-only data storage system is described that stores sets of data blocks in extents that are located in storage devices. During operation of the system, upon receiving a request to copy an extent from a source storage device to a destination storage device, the system creates a scratch extent on the destination storage device, and associates the scratch extent with a private identifier, whereby the scratch extent can only be accessed through the private identifier. The system uses the private identifier to perform a copying operation that copies the extent from the source storage device to the scratch extent on the destination storage device. After the copying operation is complete and the scratch extent is closed, the system associates the scratch extent with a public identifier, whereby the copy of the extent on the destination storage device becomes publically accessible to other entities in the data storage system. |
| US10248354B2 |
Hypervisor enabling secure communication between virtual machines by managing exchanging access to read buffer and write buffer with a queuing buffer
A hypervisor manages a read buffer, a write buffer and a queuing buffer in a memory used jointly by the first virtual machine and the second virtual machine, the read buffer, the write buffer and the queuing buffer having the same size. The hypervisor assigns the read buffer to a read area readable by the first virtual machine, assigns the write buffer to a write area writable by the second virtual machine and assigns the queuing buffer to a queuing area of the memory that is inaccessible to the first virtual machine and to the second virtual machine. In response to a first request by the first virtual machine, the hypervisor performs a reader-side exchange of the read buffer for the queuing buffer and in response to a second request by the second virtual machine, the hypervisor performs a writer-side exchange of the write buffer for the queuing buffer. |
| US10248353B2 |
Dynamicly freeing storage space in tiered storage systems
A method for dynamically freeing storage space in a tiered storage system includes reading attribute values associated with data sets residing on a first storage tier. The method compares characteristics of the data sets to the attribute values to determine which initial data sets qualify to be moved from the first storage tier to a second storage tier. The method further determines whether movement of the initial data sets creates a desired amount of free space on the first storage tier. In the event the movement does not create the desired amount of free space, the method modifies the attribute values, determines which additional data sets qualify to be moved from the first storage tier to the second storage tier, and recalculates the amount of free space that would be generated. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed. |
| US10248348B2 |
Online flash resource migration, allocation, retire and replacement manager based on a cost of ownership model
A method for migrating disks includes: dividing a disk pool including a plurality of disks into a random zone and a sequential zone based on sequentiality and randomness of workloads running on the plurality of disks; monitoring a status of each disk in the disk pool based on a total cost of ownership (TCO); migrating one or more workloads of an overheated disk to an idle disk based on the status of each disk. The overheated disk has a first TCO higher than a migration threshold, and the idle disk has a second TCO lower than an idling threshold. |
| US10248347B2 |
Auto allocation of storage system resources to heterogeneous categories of resource consumer
Techniques to automatically allocate resources among storage system resource consumers are disclosed. In various embodiments, for each of a plurality of heterogeneous categories of resource consumer of the storage system a corresponding allocated portion of storage system resources to be available for use to perform operations associated with that category of resource consumer is determined. A storage system is configured automatically to provide access to resources of the storage system based at least in part on the respective portions of storage system resources allocated to each category of resource consumer, including by ensuring availability to workloads associated with each category at any given time at least a minimum amount of storage system resources corresponding to the portion of storage system resources allocated to that category. |
| US10248341B2 |
Overlapping write detection and processing for sync replication
A primary write request that is to modify a primary portion of primary data stored in a primary storage node is received. The primary write request is to be replicated to create a current secondary write request. The current secondary write request is to modify a current secondary portion of secondary data that is stored in a secondary storage node. A current data range of the current secondary portion is determined. A determination is made of whether a previous secondary write request is in process of modifying a previous data range that at least partially overlaps with a current data range of the current secondary portion. Execution of the primary write request is suspended, until the previous secondary write request has completed updating the secondary storage node. |
| US10248340B2 |
Semiconductor apparatus, memory module and operation method thereof
A memory module may be provided. The memory module may include a normal memory device, a spare memory device, and a row hammering determination circuit. The row hammering determination circuit may be configured to control the spare memory device to perform a data input and output operation, instead of a data input and output operation with the normal memory device in which row hammering has occurred. |
| US10248336B1 |
Efficient deletion of shared snapshots
Efficient deletion of a shared snapshot and other workflows are described herein, including: determining to delete a shared snapshot associated with a first container, wherein the shared snapshot shares with a second container at least a subset of data values that are stored by the shared snapshot, the determination is based at least in part on the shared snapshot sharing data values with not more than a prescribed number of containers other than the second container and an occurrence of a deletion triggering event; and causing zero or more data values that are stored by the shared snapshot and shared with the second container to be associated with the second container prior to deleting the shared snapshot. |
| US10248334B2 |
Virtual storage target offload techniques
A virtual machine storage service can be use a unique network identifier and a SR-IOV compliant device can be used to transport I/O between a virtual machine and the virtual machine storage service. The virtual machine storage service can be offloaded to a child partition or migrated to another physical machine along with the unique network identifier. |
| US10248333B1 |
Write distribution techniques for two-terminal memory wear leveling
One potential result of differing characteristics for certain two-terminal memory (TTM) is that memory management techniques, such as logical-to-physical (L2P), can differ as well. Previous memory management techniques do not adequately leverage the advantages associated with TTM. For example, by identifying and leveraging certain advantageous characteristics of TTM, L2P tables can be designed to be smaller and more efficient. Moreover, other memory management operations such as wear-leveling, recovery from power loss, and so forth, can be more efficient. |
| US10248332B2 |
Method for extending life expectancy of disks in cloud-based service system and system using the same
A system for extending life expectancy of disks in a cloud-based service system and the system using the method are disclosed. The present invention uses LSTM modeling and the k-means clustering algorithms to find out performance limit and target lifespan for a cluster of disks assigned for a specific workload running over the cloud-based service system. The disks can be predicted to have a minimum lifetime and the requirement of the workload can be satisfied. Meanwhile, the minimum lifetime is the longest life the disk can last. |
| US10248328B2 |
Direct data move between DRAM and storage on a memory module
A computer system comprises a processor, a memory module and input/output devices. The memory module includes a circuit board, a volatile memory unit mounted on the circuit board, a non-volatile memory unit mounted on the circuit board and a control circuit mounted on the circuit board. The volatile memory unit comprises DRAM devices, and the non-volatile memory unit comprises flash memory. The processor is configured to execute an operating system (OS) and an application program and to present a memory address space to the application program. The memory address space including a memory mapped input/output (MMIO) space mapped to the I/O devices, a pseudo MMIO (PMMIO) space mapped to the non-volatile memory unit, and a DRAM space mapped to the volatile memory unit, the PMMIO space including a system main memory local storage (MMLS) area and a memory channel storage area, wherein the DRAM space is partitioned into memory pages, and the MCS space is partitioned into storage blocks. |
| US10248325B2 |
Implied directory state updates
Memory is to store cache lines, where the cache lines include data and directory information to indicate a directory state of the corresponding cache line. A command is received from a processor over a link, the command including an address. The address is determined to correspond to a particular cache line and the particular cache line is identified to have a particular directory state from the corresponding directory information of the particular cache line. A type of the command is identified and a determination is made that that the directory state of the particular cache line is to change from the particular state to a new state based on the type of the command. The directory information of the particular cache line is changed to reflect the new state and a response is generated to the command. |
| US10248322B2 |
Memory system
According to one embodiment, a memory system is connectable to a host. The memory system includes a nonvolatile memory and a control circuit. The control circuit executes data transfer between the host and the first memory and managing translation information indicating a relation between logical location information and physical location information. The logical location information is location information designated from the host. The physical location information is location information physically indicating location in the first memory. The control circuit separates out the translation information into a plurality of levels in a hierarchy. The translation information includes first translation information which belongs to the first level in the hierarchy and second translation information which belongs to the second level in the hierarchy. The size of the first translation information and the size of the second translation information are the same. |
| US10248320B2 |
Workload-aware thin-provisioning storage-allocation system
A method and associated systems for a workload-aware thin-provisioning system that allocates physical storage to virtual resources from pools of physical storage volumes. The system receives constraints that limit the amount of storage that can be allocated from each pool and the total workload that can be directed to each pool. It also receives lists of previous workloads and allocations associated with each volume at specific times in the past. The system then predicts future workloads and allocation requirements for each volume by regressing linear equations derived from the received data. If the predicted values indicate that a pool will at a future time violate a received constraint, the system computes the minimum costs to move each volume of the offending pool to a less-burdened pool. It then selects the lowest-cost combination of volume and destination pool and then moves the selected volume to the selected pool. |
| US10248315B2 |
Devices and methods for interconnecting server nodes
Described are aggregation devices and methods for interconnecting server nodes. The aggregation device can include an input region, an output region, and a memory switch. The input region includes a plurality of input ports. The memory switch has a shared through silicon via (TSV) memory coupled to the input ports for temporarily storing data received at the input ports from a plurality of source devices. The output region includes a plurality of output ports coupled to the TSV memory. The output ports provide the data to a plurality of destination devices. A memory allocation system coordinates a transfer of the data from the source devices to the TSV memory. The output ports receive and process the data from the TSV memory independently of a communication from the input ports. |
| US10248307B2 |
Virtual reality headset device with front touch screen
This disclosure relates to systems, methods, and devices for interacting with a virtual reality environment via a virtual reality headset device. In particular, one or more embodiments include a display screen secured to a housing frame. One or more embodiments also include a touch interface positioned in a relative position with respect to the display screen. In addition, an area of the touch interface can be mapped to an area of the display screen. As such, one or more embodiments also detect a user interaction at the touch interface and provide a response to the display screen in accordance with a position of the user interaction at the touch interface. |
| US10248304B2 |
Method for displaying monitoring screen at a display location
The method for displaying a monitoring screen for a control program includes: providing a list of files of monitoring screens via a display unit; receiving a file of a monitoring screen to be displayed among the files of the list and a display location of the monitoring screen from a user; and executing the file of the monitoring screen input from the user to display the monitoring screen at the display location. |
| US10248302B2 |
Scheduling customizable electronic notifications
An alarm application is described. A user interface of the alarm application may be presented that includes a generic alarm option and a sleep alarm option. A first view of the user interface may be presented that includes generic alarm related options when the generic alarm option is selected. A second view of the user interface may be presented that includes sleep alarm related options when the sleep alarm option is selected. |
| US10248297B2 |
Systems and methods for cross domain service component interaction
Disclosed are methods, apparatus, systems, and computer readable storage media for interacting with components across different domains in a single user interface in an online social network. The user interface includes a first component and a second component, where the first component exposes content from a first database system at a first network domain and the second component exposes content from a second database system at a second network domain. A first interaction with the first component is received at a computing device, followed by a reference being provided in the second component, where the reference includes information related to the first interaction. A second interaction with the second component regarding the reference can be received at the computing device. Interactions between the components hosted on different database systems can occur through an application programming interface (API). |
| US10248293B2 |
Method, apparatus, computer program and user interface
A method, apparatus, computer program and user interface wherein the method comprises: providing a plurality of user interface items in a menu structure where each user interface item is associated with at least one function of an apparatus; determining that a function associated with a user interface item is unavailable; removing the user interface item associated with the unavailable function from the menu structure; and providing a replacement user interface item in the position of the menu structure previously occupied by the removed user interface item. |
| US10248292B2 |
Electronic picture book which sequentially changes in response to scroll operation
In the prior art, in electronic picture books having a functionality in which scrolling is performed such that an image seems to be moved when a screen is stroked by a hand, it has not been possible to achieve a special representation that greatly surprises the reader by using the scroll functionality. To solve this problem, provided herein is an electronic picture book in which a partial range of an image is displayed and a display range of the image changes due to the screen being stroked by a hand, shapes, colors, and special effects of element images sequentially change in coordination with change to the display range, and a manner and an extent of the change differ depending on the element image. Moreover, the shapes, colors, and special effects of these element images also undergo a different change in coordination with elapsing of time. |
| US10248289B2 |
Application icon display control method and terminal
The present disclosure provides an application icon display control method and a terminal. The application icon display control method includes distributing a number of preset application icons in gap regions of a region in which a frequently used icon bar of a terminal is located. The gap regions are the remaining regions obtained by removing regions occupied by frequently used application icons from the region in which the frequently used icon bar is located. |
| US10248285B2 |
Immersive displays
A method of displaying images on an immersive display. The method includes receiving information from an external sensor or input device of the immersive display, based on the information received, detecting an object that conflicts with a virtual reality space, adjusting at least one dimension of virtual reality space to provide an adjusted virtual reality for display on the immersive display to accommodate for the object, and displaying the adjusted virtual reality on the display of the immersive display. |
| US10248284B2 |
Method and apparatus for interface control with prompt and feedback
To prompt input and provide feedback on input to a user with an interface, inputs and graphical cursors associated with those inputs are defined. Each input may have several forms such as base, hover, engaged, completed, and error. User input is anticipated. The base form of the anticipated input cursor is displayed to prompt the user for the anticipated input. If user hover is detected that matches anticipated input, the hover form is displayed to confirm the match to the user. If user input is detected that matches anticipated input, the engaged form is displayed as confirmation. If user input is completed that matches anticipated input, the completed form is displayed as confirmation. If user hover or input does not match anticipated input, the error form is displayed to indicate mismatch. Not all cursors must have all forms, and some cursors may have multiples of some forms. |
| US10248283B2 |
Contextual GUI-style interaction for textual commands
A method for a processor to provide a user interface to manage entities in a software system domain includes, in response to receiving a command line, executing the command, receiving the output of the command where the output include metadata of an entity in the software system domain, preserving the metadata, converting the output to a text item, displaying the converted text item in the user interface, and associating the text item in the user interface with its metadata. The method further includes, in response to receiving a user interaction with the displayed text item from a pointing device or a keyboard, retrieving the metadata associated with the text item in the user interface and performing, based on the metadata associated with the text item, an entity-specific action for the selected item, such as generating an entity-specific contextual menu or invoking a command on the entity. |
| US10248281B2 |
Controlling input to a plurality of computer windows
A method for controlling user input to a plurality of computer windows is provided. The method determines an input window and an output window, directs a plurality of input commands including primary and secondary input commands to the input window, determines when a user is visually focusing on the output window, and directing the secondary input commands to the output window, while the primary input commands remain directed to the input window. |
| US10248278B2 |
Method and apparatus for intuitive multitasking
A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for intuitive multitasking. In the context of a method, a method is provided that includes causing a first user interface associated with a first device, a first application, or a first view of a single application to be presented, the first user interface defining an initial user interface area. The method further includes causing a second user interface associated with a second device, a second application, or a second view of the single application to be presented, the second user interface being at least partially within the initial user interface area. The method may also include causing the first user interface to be presented concurrent with the second user interface so as to define a resized user interface area that is smaller than the initial user interface area and is at least partially within the initial user interface area. |
| US10248276B2 |
Transparent conductive coating for capacitive touch panel with optional additional functional film(s)
A multi-layer conductive coating is substantially transparent to visible light, contains at least one conductive layer comprising silver that is sandwiched between at least a pair of dielectric layers, and may be used as an electrode and/or conductive trace in a capacitive touch panel. The multi-layer conductive coating may contain a dielectric layer of or including zirconium oxide (e.g., ZrO2) and/or silicon nitride, and may be used in applications such as capacitive touch panels for controlling showers, appliances, vending machines, electronics, electronic devices, and/or the like. The touch panel may further include a functional film(s) which may be one or more of: an index-matching film, an antiglare film, an anti-fingerprint film, and anti-microbial film, a scratch resistant film, and/or an antireflective (AR) film. |
| US10248275B2 |
Sensor-equipped display device
A sensor-equipped display device is provided and includes a display panel and a detection electrode. The panel includes a display area in which pixels are arranged with a first pixel pitch in a first direction and a second pixel pitch in a second direction. The electrode includes an pattern having line fragments. The pattern has connection points at which ends of the fragments are connected to each other, and at least part of the connection points is arranged linearly such that an arrangement gaps thereof in the first and second direction is set to a first and second connection point pitch. |
| US10248273B2 |
Fast multi-touch stylus and sensor
A stylus and touch sensitive device are disclosed. The stylus includes a stylus transmitter for transmitting a stylus signal. The touch sensitive device includes row conductors, each of which is associated with a row transmitter and a row receiver. The row transmitter is adapted to simultaneously transmit row signals, each on its associated row conductor, each of the row signals being orthogonal to each other of the plurality of row signals transmitted on each other of the row conductors. The row receiver is adapted to detect the stylus signal. Column conductors are provided, each associated with a column receiver that is adapted to detect the presence of each of the row signals transmitted by the row transmitter and the stylus signal. |
| US10248272B2 |
Touch substrate and touch screen
The present disclosure provides a touch substrate and a touch screen, which belongs to the field of touch technology. The touch substrate includes a touch region and a black matrix pattern surrounding the touch region, the touch substrate including a plurality of touch electrode patterns, wherein the touch electrode pattern includes a first portion overlapped on the black matrix pattern, and wherein in the first portion, if an included angle formed by a first edge and an extending line of a second edge is less than 120°, the first edge and the second edge are formed to be connected with at least one third edge, such that included angles between two edges adjacent to each other among the first edge, the second edge and the third edge are greater than 120°. |
| US10248268B2 |
OGS capacitive touch screen and manufacturing method thereof
The present disclosure discloses an OGS capacitive touch screen and a manufacturing thereof. The OGS capacitive touch screen includes: a glass substrate; a first transparent electrically-conductive layer formed on the glass substrate and including a plurality of first touch electrodes arranged in a first direction; an overcoat layer formed on the first transparent electrically-conductive layer; a plurality of vias formed in the overcoat layer, the vias corresponding to lead wire positions reserved for the plurality of first touch electrodes; and a second transparent electrically-conductive layer formed on the overcoat layer and including a plurality of second touch electrodes arranged in a second direction. |
| US10248266B1 |
Two-pin buttons
An apparatus and method for detecting a presence of a conductive object on a sensing device, and recognizing three or more button operations performed by the conductive object using two sensing areas of the sensing device. The sensing device may include first, second, and third sensor elements. The third sensor element may include two electrically isolated portions coupled to the first and second sensor elements. |
| US10248265B2 |
Touch detecting panel
The present invention is a touch detection panel that uses capacitance changes between electrodes and changes thereof to determine a position of touch. The touch panel can be used in commercial applications where using a finger, stylus, or other object is the desired method of interface with an electronic system. The touch panel includes conductive electrodes and conductive lines connecting the conductive electrodes. The conductive electrodes themselves can be made of opaque conductive material, substantially transparent conductive material, or transparent conductive material depending on the requirements of an application. The Touch panel is connected to a controller that applies current and/or voltage to the touch panel and senses current and/or voltage from the touch panel to determine either single or multiple touch locations. |
| US10248263B2 |
Acoustic wave touch device and electronic apparatus
Embodiments of the invention disclose an acoustic wave touch device and an electronic apparatus, which belong to the field of communication and display. The device comprises an acoustic wave touch module and at least one airflow generating module. The acoustic wave touch module comprises a guard plate having at least one through hole. The airflow generating module is arranged at a position to which each through hole corresponds. The acoustic wave touch module is used for generating an acoustic wave that propagates along the surface of the guard plate or passes through the guard plate, and controlling all or part of the at least one airflow generation module to generate airflow that blows to the user's finger via the through hole of the guard plate when it is detected based on the acoustic wave that a user's finger touches the guard plate. |
| US10248260B2 |
Pressure sensing unit and touch input device including the same
A touch input device capable of detecting a touch pressure may be provided, that includes: a display panel; and a pressure sensing unit which is disposed under the display panel. The pressure sensing unit includes one central pressure sensor for detecting the pressure and a plurality of non-central pressure sensors for detecting the pressure. An area of each of the non-central pressure sensors is less than that of the central pressure sensor. |
| US10248255B2 |
Array substrate, touch display panel and method for calculating touch pressure
Provided are an array substrate, a touch display panel and a method for calculating touch pressure. The array substrate includes: a display region with a non-display region around the display region, thin film transistors in the display region and having an active layer, at least two semiconductor pressure sensors, a bias voltage applying circuit for applying a bias voltage to each semiconductor pressure sensor, and a voltage detecting circuit for acquiring a strain voltage from each semiconductor pressure sensor. A first straight line connecting a first connecting terminal and a second connecting terminal of the semiconductor pressure sensor intersects a second straight line connecting a third connecting terminal and a fourth connecting terminal of the semiconductor pressure sensor. The semiconductor pressure sensor is a semiconductor film in a polygonal structure having at least four sides, the active layer and the semiconductor film are in a same layer. |
| US10248252B2 |
Control element with haptically movable touchpad or touchscreen and with magnetic return
The present disclosure relates to a control element, comprising a carrier, an actuating member defining a touch-sensitive input surface, whereby the actuating member is movably installed on the carrier substantially parallel to the plane formed by the touch-sensitive input surface in a movement direction; an actuator to provide a movement from a resting position in movement direction of the actuating member relative to the carrier for providing a haptic feedback, whereby furthermore at least one permanent-magnet pair is arranged between the carrier and the actuating member to guide, in particular to stabilize the movement of the actuating member and/or the return of the actuating member into the resting position. |
| US10248250B2 |
Haptic communication apparatus, integrated touch sensing and simulating apparatus and method for haptic communication
The present application discloses a haptic communication apparatus including a touch simulation device comprising a first controller and a first actuator coupled to each other; and a data receiver communicatively coupled to the touch simulation device and configured to receive a first touch command signal associated with simulating a touch on the touch simulation device. The first controller is configured to receive the first touch command signal from the data receiver and control the first actuator to simulate the touch on the touch simulation device in response to the first touch command signal; the first actuator comprises a plurality of touch simulating elements; the first controller is coupled to each of the plurality of touch simulating elements aid configured to provide a plurality of touch simulating signals respectively to the plurality of touch simulating elements. |
| US10248248B2 |
User interface selection through intercept points
Approaches presented herein provide for user interface selection through an intercept point defined by a touch sensitive bezel. More specifically, a touch sensitive bezel, in a device having a display at least partially surrounded by the touch sensitive bezel, senses a horizontal position and a vertical position on the display from two locations on the bezel touched by a user. An intersection on the display where the horizontal position and the vertical position cross is determined and can be marked on the display. A user may slide his/her fingers along the touch sensitive bezel to move the intersection around the display. A user may perform an additional action to confirm a selection of an item located at the intersection. The touch sensitive bezel can also be used to control interface selection on a display of a second device by mapping the horizontal and vertical positions to the second device display. |
| US10248247B2 |
Tethered stylus, touch sensitive electronic device and system and method thereof
A touch sensitive processing method is applicable to a touch sensitive electronic system comprising a stylus, an audio processor coupling to the stylus, a touch screen, and a touch sensitive processing apparatus coupling to the touch screen. The method comprises having the audio processor driving a tip section of the stylus for emitting electrical signals; and having the touch sensitive processing apparatus receiving sensed electrical signals via the touch screen for determining a position where the tip section is touching or approximating the touch screen. |
| US10248245B2 |
Resolving touch and press for multiple input objects
A processing system for an input device, including: sensor circuitry configured to receive resulting signals from a plurality of force sensors of the input device; and processing circuitry configured to: determine a first position of a first input object and a second position of a second input object on a surface of the input device; determine a plurality of force values based on the resulting signals; calculate a first aggregate force metric for a first region of the input region based on a first subset of the plurality of force values; determine that the first region has an input force based on a first comparison involving the first aggregate force metric; calculate a first distance between the first position and a first region and a second distance between the second position and the first region; and determine that the first input object is applying the input force in response to the first distance being smaller than the second distance. |
| US10248243B2 |
Touch input device
A touch input device may be provided that includes a display module; a substrate which is disposed under the display module; a pressure sensor which is disposed between the display module and the substrate; and a pressure sensing circuit which outputs a predetermined voltage. The touch input device detects the pressure magnitude on the basis of the voltage output from the pressure sensing circuit. The pressure sensing circuit includes a pressure sensing node NA; a switch serially connected between a power voltage VDDA and the pressure sensing node; a current source serially connected between the pressure sensing node and the ground; and an output node No. The current source is turned on during a first time period t1 every cycle. The switch is turned on every cycle during a third time period t3 separated from the first time period t1 by a predetermined time period. |
| US10248232B2 |
Press sensor and electronic device
A touch panel that includes a housing defining an opening and a piezoelectric film covering the opening. The opening has a shape whose lengths in an X direction and a Y direction are different. The piezoelectric film is stretched in a uniaxial direction, and is aligned such that the uniaxial direction forms an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the X direction and the Y direction. |
| US10248226B2 |
Configuring digital pens for use across different applications
A technique is described herein for defining at least some characteristics of a digital pen in a global manner across plural applications, such that the pen exhibits the same characteristics across two or more applications. In one implementation, the technique involves: receiving a pen activation signal in response to a user's activation of an input mechanism provided by a particular digital pen; identifying a location on a user interface (UI) presentation that is readily accessible to the user; generating a pen configuration presentation; presenting the pen configuration presentation on the UI presentation at the location that has been identified; receiving a configuration input from the user in response to the user's interaction with the pen configuration presentation; and, in response to the configuration input, storing a global configuration setting that governs a characteristic of ink strokes produced by the particular digital pen across at least two different applications. |
| US10248225B1 |
Mouse device
A mouse device includes a shell including a top shell, a circuit board, at least one electrical switch electrically equipped on the circuit board, a key holder disposed to the shell, and at least one elastic element. The key holder includes at least one key corresponding to the at least one electrical switch. The at least one key has a touch element. The at least one key is capable of selectively triggering the at least one electrical switch by virtue of the touch element moving downward to contact and moving upward to break away from the at least one electrical switch. The at least one elastic element is fastened to a rear end of the at least one key. The elastic element elastically abuts against at least one of the top shell and the at least one key. |
| US10248224B2 |
Input based on interactions with a physical hinge
Techniques for input based on interactions with a physical hinge are described. Generally, a new class of interactions involves user manipulation of a physical hinge in order to provide input to a computing device. These hinge-based interactions provide input to a computing system that can be leveraged to initiate one or more system-level commands or operations, initiate transitions between discrete views of content, interact with content displayed via one or more display devices, and so on. In an example, a sequence of two or more consecutive hinge angle changes is recognized as a hinge gesture to perform a particular operation, such as a transition between a single-tasking state and a multitasking state. |
| US10248222B2 |
Method for processing event signal and event-based sensor performing the same
An event signal processing method and an event-based sensor performing the event signal processing method are provided. The event signal processing method includes receiving an activation signal to indicate sensing of an event from a sensor array, increasing the cumulative event number of a sensing area corresponding to the activation signal among sensing areas of the sensor array, reducing the cumulative event number of each of the sensing areas based on a parameter; and determining, as a flickering area, a sensing area among the sensing areas, of which the cumulative event number exceeds a threshold. |
| US10248219B2 |
Tracking user behavior via application monitored channel changing notifications
An intelligent television and methods for user interaction between the intelligent television and the user are provided. In general, a user is provided with navigation, notification, and setup options which enable one or more functions associated with the intelligent television. The presentation of options is based on input received by the intelligent television. As a user provides input to the intelligent television via a remote control or other input device, the intelligent television is configured to interpret the input and provide interactive functionality in the form of content presented to the display of the intelligent television. |
| US10248218B2 |
Systems and methods of direct pointing detection for interaction with a digital device
A method of recognizing an aimed point on a plane is provided. Images captured by one or more image sensor are processed for obtaining data obtaining data indicative of location of at least one pointing element in the viewing space and data indicative of at least one predefined user's body part in the viewing space; using the obtained data an aimed point on the plane is identified. In case it is determined that a predefined condition is met a predefined command and/or message is executed. |
| US10248216B2 |
Method for operating terminal device with gesture and device
A method for operation a terminal device with gesture and a device are provided. The method includes obtaining a gesture video segment comprising a preset number of frames of images, obtaining gesture track information of a user according to a location of a finger of the user in each frame of image of the gesture video segment, searching in a preset corresponding relationship between the gesture track information and an operation according to the gesture track information, obtaining the operation corresponding to the gesture track information of the user and performing the operation. With the technical scheme of the present disclosure, the gesture track information of the user is obtained via analyzing each frame of image in the obtained gesture video segment. The gesture track information of the user in a dimensional plane is concerned and the corresponding operation thereof is obtained via the gesture track information. This technical scheme may enrich the methods for triggering the operation, operate the terminal device without directly touching the terminal device and reduce the dependence on the peripheral devices, such as the mouse and the keyboard. |
| US10248214B2 |
Wearable device for writing and drawing
An embodiment provides a method, including: detecting, via a wearable information handling device, a user motion; processing, via the wearable information handling device, the user motion into user motion data; determining, using a processor, that the user motion data is handwriting input; and converting, using the processor, the user motion data into a digital handwriting input. Other aspects are described and claimed. |
| US10248213B2 |
Systems and methods for interfaces featuring surface-based haptic effects
Systems and methods for interfaces featuring surface-based haptic effects are described. One described system includes a sensor configured to detect a touch in a touch area when an object contacts a touch surface. The touch surface may correspond to the display area or may correspond to a non-display surface of a computing device or peripheral interfaced to a computing device. The system can further include an actuator in communication with the processor and coupled to the touch surface, the actuator configured to output a haptic effect and a processor configured to select a haptic effect to generate. The haptic effect can be selected based on a position of the touch and recognizing an input gesture provided by the touch and/or content displayed in a graphical user interface at a location mapped to a position in the touch area at or near the touch. The haptic effect may provide a texture, simulate an obstacle, and/or adjust the coefficient of friction of the surface. |
| US10248209B2 |
Storage medium having stored therein information processing program, information processing apparatus, information processing system, and information processing method
Predetermined vibration data for vibrating a vibrator of an operation apparatus is generated and output to the operation apparatus. Then, when motion/orientation data of the operation apparatus satisfies a predetermined condition in a period in which the vibration data is output, vibration data for temporarily changing the vibration of the vibrator and thereafter continuing the vibration of the vibrator is generated and output. |
| US10248208B2 |
Tactile transmission device and user interface system having same
A tactile transmission device for transmitting a tactile sensation to a user's finger comprises: a ring-type body which is put on a finger; a moving member which is formed such that the moving member can move with respect to the body; and a plurality of wire-type actuators which are formed so as to come in contact with the moving member, wherein each of the wire-type actuators is a solid-state actuator which changes in length when energy is applied thereto, a force applied to the moving member as the plurality of wire-type actuators change in length causes the moving member to move with respect to the body, and a contact part formed in the moving member comes into contact with a user's finger according to a movement of the moving member, so as to transmit a tactile sensation to the user. |
| US10248203B2 |
Systems and methods for physics-based tactile messaging
Systems and methods for physics-based tactile messaging are disclosed. For example, one disclosed method includes the steps of receiving a sensor signal from a sensor configured to sense a physical interaction with a messaging device; determining an interaction between one or more virtual message objects and a virtual message environment, the interaction based at least in part on the sensor signal and a virtual physical parameter of at least one of the one or more virtual message objects; and determining a haptic effect based at least in part on the interaction. The method additionally includes the step of generating a haptic signal configured to cause an actuator to output the haptic effect. |
| US10248202B2 |
Video display apparatus and method for reducing VR sickness
A video display apparatus includes a display configured to reproduce a video, a processor configured to generate a signal for applying an electrical stimulus to a user, based on a motion depicted in the video, and a communication unit configured to transmit the signal to an electrical stimulation apparatus. |
| US10248199B2 |
Gaze detection calibration
Examples relating to calibrating an estimated gaze location are disclosed. One example method comprises monitoring the estimated gaze location of a viewer using gaze tracking data from a gaze tracking system. Image data for display via a display device is received, the image data comprising at least one target visual and target visual metadata that identifies the at least one target visual. The target visual metadata is used to identify a target location of the at least one target visual. The estimated gaze location of the viewer is monitored and a probability that the viewer is gazing at the target location is estimated. The gaze tracking system is calibrated using the probability, the estimated gaze location and the target location to generate an updated estimated gaze location of the viewer. |
| US10248192B2 |
Gaze target application launcher
A gaze target is recognized via an eye tracking camera. An application launcher is displayed, via a display, at the gaze target based on a user trigger. The application launcher presents a plurality of applications selectable for launching. A user selection of one of the plurality of applications is recognized. The application launcher is replaced with the selected one of the plurality of applications at the gaze target via the display. |
| US10248187B2 |
Asynchronous processor
There are disclosed asynchronous computing devices and methods of operating asynchronous computing devices. An asynchronous computing device includes an asynchronous processor operative from an operating voltage and a voltage regulator circuit. The asynchronous processor includes a collection of asynchronous logic circuits that are collectively capable of executing stored instructions. The voltage regulator circuit receives a voltage request from the asynchronous processor and outputs the operating voltage to the asynchronous processor as defined by the voltage request. |
| US10248184B2 |
Sensor API framework for cloud based applications
An apparatus and method for a framework exposing an API (application programming interface) to web-based server applications on the internet or in the cloud is presented. The API allows server applications to retrieve sensor data from a mobile device via a low-power sensor core processor on a mobile device. This API eliminates effort and cost associated with developing and promoting a new mobile device client application. The API framework includes APIs that web-based application may use to fetch sensor data from one or more particular sensors on the mobile device. |
| US10248179B2 |
Method and controller for power throttling upon system on portable device, corresponding portable device, and corresponding computer program products
A method for power throttling upon a system includes: obtaining at least one characteristic information of a power source that is used for providing energy for the system; and, determining an available power range for the system according to the at least one characteristic information, so as to make the system control a behavior of the system according to the available power range. |
| US10248168B2 |
Religious application for mobile and wearable technology devices
Provided are systems and methods tracking a prayer session of a device user and notifying the device user regarding prayer session activity. The method includes receiving motion information from an accelerometer of the device, receiving altitude information from an altimeter of the device, and receiving position information from a gyroscope of the device while the device user is engaged in the prayer session. The method further includes determining a prayer unit number or prayer position based on one or more of the received motion information, altitude information, and position information, and notifying the device user of the determined prayer unit number or prayer position. |
| US10248166B2 |
Electronic device
Provided is an electronic device to which measures for reducing influence by electro-static discharge are applied. A tablet of the present disclosure includes a display module, a first metal frame that holds the display module, a second metal frame disposed on a surface opposite to a surface of the first metal frame where the display module is held, and a printed circuit board having a ground electrically connected to the first metal frame, mounting an electronic circuit, and disposed on a surface opposite to a surface of the second metal frame where the first metal frame is disposed. An electro-static current diverges to the first metal frame and the second metal frame. |
| US10248165B2 |
Foldable plate and foldable display device with the same
Provided are a foldable plate and a foldable display device with the same. A foldable plate includes: a first area including a first material having a first elastic modulus, a second area including the first material, the second area being separate from the first area, a third area including a second material having a second elastic modulus lower than the first elastic modulus, the third area being interposed between the first area and the second area. |
| US10248164B2 |
Chip on film, flexible display apparatus having the same, and fabricating method thereof
The present application discloses a flexible display apparatus bendable along a bending direction extending from a first portion of the flexible display apparatus to a second portion of the flexible display apparatus; the first portion bent towards the second portion when the flexible display apparatus is bent along the bending direction; including a plurality of chip on films arranged extending from the first portion to the second portion; each of the plurality of chip on films having a base film and an integrated circuit chip on the base film; and a flexible display panel connected to the plurality of chip on films. A longitudinal direction of the integrated circuit chip is substantially perpendicular to the bending direction. |
| US10248160B1 |
Monitor with integrated keyboard storage
In some examples, a display device may include a display surface having a rectangular shape and a bezel surrounding the display surface. The bezel may include a release mechanism linked to two L-shaped arms that are stored retracted into the bottom of the display device. When retracted, the L-shaped arms may not be externally visible. When selected, the release mechanism may cause the L-shaped arms to be released from the bottom of the display device. The L-shaped arms may each be positioned to hold (e.g., store) a keyboard. A length of each of the L-shaped arms may be independently adjustable. In some cases, a back of the keyboard may include a U-shaped ridge to couple with a U-shaped groove on a mouse to temporarily store the mouse on the back of the keyboard when the keyboard is stored in the L-shaped arms. |
| US10248154B2 |
Joystick assembly
A joystick assembly for use with a device including a joystick surface and a first magnet having north and south magnetic poles includes a second magnet having north and south magnetic poles and a movable elongated shaft having first and second opposing ends arranged along a major axis of the shaft. The first end of the shaft is coupled to the second magnet such that movement of the shaft results in movement of the second magnet relative to the first magnet such that a line between centers of the north and south magnetic poles of the second magnet is movable relative to a line between the north and south magnetic poles of the first magnet. An attraction of the second magnet to the first magnet results in a restoring force upon the shaft, and the shaft and the second magnet are removable from the joystick surface. |
| US10248153B2 |
Self-centering mechanism for a rotatable shaft
A self-centering mechanism for a rotatable shaft includes first and second centering members. Each centering member defines a first and second arcuate slot. A stationary pin extends through the first arcuate slots of the centering members. A rotatable shaft member extends through the centers of the centering members and is disposed between the first and second arcuate slots. A support member extends radially from and is fixed to the shaft member so as to be rotatable therewith. An actuating pin extends from the support member and through the second arcuate slots, and engages the second arcuate slots to rotate one of the first and second centering members. At least one biasing member is in communication with an anchoring structure and rotationally biases at least one of the first and second centering members to a registration position upon release of the rotatable shaft. |
| US10248150B2 |
Slope enhancement circuit for switched regulated current mirrors
An object of the disclosure is to provide a slope enhancement circuit, comprising an amplifier and a specific arrangement of capacitors and switches, further comprising a current digital to analog converter (IDAC), in a switched regulated current mirror. A method of sample and hold exploits the transient dynamics of the switched current mirror, to enhance the output current slope during PWM operation. A further object of the disclosure is to provide a low power, high speed switching type of regulated current mirror architecture. Still further, another object of the disclosure is to provide quick response to a sudden demand in current with a high degree of accuracy. Still further, another object of the disclosure is to provide a significant savings in circuit area. |
| US10248149B2 |
Bias circuit
A bias circuit includes a first transistor, a second transistor, a first resistor and a second resistor. The first end of the first transistor is coupled to a first voltage source. One end of the first resistor is coupled to the second end of the first transistor, and the other end of the first resistor is coupled to the control terminal of the first transistor. The first end of the second transistor is coupled to a second voltage source, and the second end of the second transistor is coupled to the control terminal of the first transistor. One end of the second resistor is coupled to the other end of the first resistor, and the other end of the second resistor is coupled to the control terminal of the second transistor. |
| US10248141B2 |
Non-invasive pressure measurement system
A system includes a safety system having one or more valves configured to block a flow of fluid from a source to a destination, a non-invasive pressure measurement system having a plurality of non-invasive pressure sensors configured to monitor a pressure of the fluid without directly contacting the fluid, and a controller configured to receive feedback from the non-invasive pressure measurement system and to adjust a position of the one or more valves of the safety system based on the feedback. |
| US10248138B2 |
Water supplying method
Some embodiments may include a water supply system for supplying water based on a predetermined planned daily supply amount of water. While the worries supplied, it may be determined whether a second time has reached after a predetermined time passed from a first time. When it is determined that the second time has reached, an accumulated amount of the supplied water may be measured. A difference between the measured accumulated amount of the supplied water and the planned daily supply amount of water may be calculated. The planned daily supply amount of water may be corrected by adding the calculated difference to the planned daily supply amount of water after the second time. Water may be supplied based on the corrected planned daily supply amount of water. |
| US10248137B2 |
Method for controlling flow rate of fluid, mass flow rate control device for executing method, and mass flow rate control system utilizing mass flow rate control device
A control operation of correcting, based on a difference between a target value and a measured value of a controlled response time, a standby time from change in a set value of a flow rate to a value that is not zero until start of output of an opening signal is repeated. As a result, a response time for the flow rate to reach the set value of the flow rate after the set value changes can be a desired value independently of a type, the set flow rate, the temperature, and the pressure of fluid, individual differences among devices, and the like. The difference between the target value and the measured value of the controlled response time may be multiplied by a weight coefficient, and the control operation may be carried out for each of a predetermined plurality of ranges of the flow rate. |
| US10248130B2 |
System and method for underground machine location detection
A machine operating at an underground mine site is provided. The machine includes an engine, a frame, and a vision assembly. The vision assembly is configured to generate a vision feed of a portion of a roof of the mine site. The roof of the mine site has a plurality of bolts arranged in a predefined pattern. The vision assembly is configured to capture at least a portion of the predefined pattern of bolts based on a field of view of the vision assembly. A controller is communicably coupled to the vision assembly. The controller is configured to receive the vision feed of the portion of the roof of the mine site. The controller is configured to compare the vision feed with the predefined pattern of bolts. The controller is configured to determine a current position of the machine at the mine site based on the comparison. |
| US10248129B2 |
Pitch compensation for autonomous vehicles
Systems and method are provided for controlling a vehicle. In one embodiment, a method includes: determining, by a controller onboard the vehicle, a lateral plan for the operating vehicle along a route; obtaining, by the controller, pitch data pertaining to the lateral plan; and determining, by the controller, a longitudinal plan for operating the vehicle along the route based on the pitch data and the lateral plan, wherein the pitch data influences a planned rate of longitudinal movement of the vehicle at one or more points along the lateral plan. In this regard, the planned vehicle velocity or acceleration at a point in the future may be constrained by pitch data corresponding to the expected vehicle location at that point in the future. |
| US10248125B2 |
Cleaning robot and method of controlling the same
Disclosed herein are a cleaning robot in which light emitting portions emitting infrared rays are installed to face forward, sideward, and upward and infrared rays which are reflected by obstacles and return are received by one light receiving module to sense obstacles to prevent an increase in manufacturing cost caused by installing a plurality of light receiving portions and simultaneously to sense obstacles located above and a method of controlling the cleaning robot. The cleaning robot including a body and a driving portion which moves the body includes at least one light emitting portion which emits light to an obstacle, a light receiving module which obtains an image signal of the obstacle by receiving the light reflected by the obstacle, and a control portion which generates obstacle sensing information based on a position of the image signal obtained by the light receiving module and controls the driving portion based on the generated obstacle sensing information. Here, the light emitting portion is installed to emit light forward, sideward, and upward from the body and to allow the light reflected by the obstacle to be received by the light receiving module, thereby sensing obstacles located forward, sideward, and above from the body. |
| US10248124B2 |
Localizing vehicle navigation using lane measurements
Systems and methods are provided for vehicle localization using lane measurements. In one implementation, a method of correcting a position of a vehicle navigating a road segment may include determining, based on an output of at least one navigational sensor, a measured position of the vehicle along a predetermined road model trajectory; receiving at least one image representative of an environment of the vehicle, analyzing the at least one image to identify at least one lane marking, determining, based on the at least one image, a distance from the vehicle to the at least one lane marking, determining an estimated offset of the vehicle from the predetermined road model trajectory based on the measured position of the vehicle and the determined distance, and determining an autonomous steering action for the vehicle based on the estimated offset to correct the position of the vehicle. |
| US10248118B2 |
Remotely controlling a self-propelled device in a virtualized environment
A computing device operating as a controller can obtain image data from a camera component. The computing device can determine a location of the self-propelled device relative to the camera based on the image data. A virtual content may be generated on the computing device based at least in part on the location of the self-propelled device. |
| US10248115B2 |
Patrol-type preventive inspection system for electromechanical devices
A patrol-type preventive inspection system is provided for an inspection personnel to perform a patrol-type inspections upon a plurality of electromechanical devices located along a patrol path. In the patrol-type preventive inspection system, a portable inspection-device kit and a portable communication device are carried by the inspection personnel to a to-be-inspected position of a to-be-inspected electromechanical device out of the electromechanical devices along the patrol path, so as to perform a patrol-type inspection upon the to-be-inspected electromechanical device for obtaining at least one inspection data. When the inspection data complies with at least one preventive inspection standard, the portable communication device is provided for the inspection user to perform an interactive operation to generate a real rapid-screening result, further to generate a preliminary treatment suggestion, and to re-plan the patrol path. |
| US10248113B2 |
Alerting system
A program for light commercial building system (LCBS) solutions. Solutions and other systems may incorporate lightweight alerting service, auto-adjustment of gateway poll rates based on the needs of various consuming applications, detecting loss of space comfort control in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, HVAC capacity loss alerting using relative degree days and accumulated stage run time with operational equivalency checks, and HVAC alerting for loss of heat or cool capacity using delta temperature and dependent system properties. Also, incorporated may be triggering s subset of analytics by automatically inferring HVAC equipment details from controller configuration details, ensuring reliability of analytics by retaining logical continuity of HVAC equipment operational data even when controllers and other parts of the system are replaced, and an LCBS gateway with workflow and mechanisms to associate to a contractor account. |
| US10248112B2 |
Parcel and article sorting system and method
A system includes an article supply location, wherein the article supply location includes a plurality of articles to be sorted, first and second transport vehicles, each having a first position in which an article is stowed about the vehicle and a second position in which the article is deposited into a proximal container. And a control system. The control system is configured to receive an order for a plurality of disparate articles, determine one destination container of a plurality of destination containers to direct the transport vehicle to deposit a selected article, direct the first transport vehicle to transport a selected article to the destination container and deposit the article by manipulation of the first transport vehicle from the first position to the second position for deposit of the selected article in the destination container. |
| US10248110B2 |
Graph theory and network analytics and diagnostics for process optimization in manufacturing
A system, method, and computer-readable medium are disclosed for analysis and characterization of manufacturing information such as process trees or genealogies using graph theory. More specifically, using graph theory to analyze manufacturing information of a manufacturing operation allows for deep analysis of relationships between batches or units in a process tree and their closeness or distance, to identify clusters associated with specific quality characteristics or problems, to identify common antecedents of specifically labeled batches (e.g., problem batches), and/or to detect overall desirable or undesirable characteristics of the process tree (e.g., centrality, etc.). |
| US10248109B2 |
Three-dimensional printing based on a license
A schematic for an object to print using a 3D printer is received. Based on the schematic, at least one customizable characteristic of the object that is licensed to a user identified. The at least one customizable characteristic of the object is modified to adjust the print instructions customized for the object. The modified object is printed. |
| US10248106B2 |
Waveform display device for displaying length by converting frequency into length on machined surface
A waveform display device includes a position information acquisition unit for acquiring position information of a drive shaft of a machine tool in a time series manner, a time designation unit for designating a time section that is a display target in a time series of the position information, a tangent direction speed calculation unit for calculating a tangent direction speed of a tool tip end point of the machine tool based on the position information and configuration information of the machine tool, a distance calculation unit for converting the time section into a distance between two points on a machined surface of the machine tool based on the tangent direction speed, and a display unit for displaying the distance between the two points. |
| US10248105B2 |
Main controller for telematics integration
A main controller may be used to provide integrated, centralized, and optimized handling of telematics data in welding arrangements. The main controller may receive from other components of a welding arrangement, telematics data, and may apply at least some processing to the telematics data, to enable use of the telematics data by a remote entity. The telematics data may comprises data relating to an engine used in driving one or more components of the welding arrangement, data relating to one or more components of the welding arrangement, and/or data relating to welding operations performed via the welding arrangement. The processing of telematics data may comprise formatting data in accordance with a single standard format, digitizing analog data, and/or processing data for communication to the remote entity. The main controller may provide telematics client and/or host node functions, such as based on the controller area network (CANBus) protocol. |
| US10248104B2 |
Optimizing machine operations using acoustics properties
A remote machining optimization system for a machine tool is provided, which includes an input unit configured to input a machining parameter including a spindle speed and a cut depth; a receiving unit configured to receive sound signals and vibration signals from the machine tool; a processing unit configured to generate a machining program with a program generating module, to modify the spindle speed and the cut depth according to the sound signals with a speed optimization module and a depth optimization module, respectively; a communication unit configured to send the machining program to the machine tool; and a storage unit configured to store the modified spindle speed and the cut depth. |
| US10248099B2 |
Programmable logic controller, engineering tool, and engineering tool program
A programmable logic controller executes an SFC program including a plurality of blocks, each including a step indicating an operation output and a transition indicating a transition condition. The programmable logic controller includes an SFC device data collecting unit for collecting device data of a device included in an active step for each scan at the time when the SFC program is executed, an SFC device data storing unit for storing the data collected by the SFC device data collecting unit, and an SFC device data outputting unit for outputting the data stored in the SFC device data storing unit to a memory card as a file for each of the steps or the blocks. |
| US10248098B2 |
PLC apparatus
Some embodiments include a PLC apparatus which is capable of predicting its life expectancy depending on an ambient temperature of the PLC apparatus. The PLC apparatus includes: an input unit through which a user inputs an ambient temperature of a PLC; a memory in which a life expectancy of a part depending on the ambient temperature is stored; a diagnosing unit configured to predict the PLC life expectancy by calculating a ratio of part life expectancy corresponding to the input ambient temperature to reference life given when the PLC is made, and compare PLC used time and the PLC life expectancy to determine whether or not the PLC used time exceeds the PLC life expectancy; and a control unit configured to control the operation of the input unit, the memory and the diagnosing unit. |
| US10248096B2 |
Systems and methods for common exchange of quality data between disparate systems
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media storing instructions are described for implementing bidirectional exchange of quality data using a common protocol. An exemplary method comprises generating, at a first party computer system, a connection request communication including data relating to a project and sending the connection request communication to a second party computer system. The method further comprises receiving, from the second party computer system, a registration change communication comprising the data relating to the project, sending a record communication including a quality object associated with the project to the second party computer system, and sending an update communication updating information in the quality object, the update communication being one of a state changing communication or a non-state changing communication. The connection request communication, the record communication, and the update communication are sent in a first format that the second party computer system cannot interpret without reformatting. |
| US10248095B2 |
Numerical control device having improved servo control performance
A numerical control device includes a multicore CPU for outputting a position command value of a servomotor, an ASIC including a servo controller, which outputs a current command value to an amplifier for driving the servomotor, and another processor, and a DSP for reading the position command value and controlling the servomotor such that the servomotor moves to a position indicated by the position command value. The CPU and the ASIC are connected through a plurality of serial interfaces. |
| US10248093B2 |
Compliant force control module
A system includes a first plate and a second plate disposed in parallel, and guides disposed between the first and second plates, including a first guide cantilevered from the first plate and a second guide cantilevered from the second plate. The first guide is offset from the second guide, and a plurality of bearings include a first bearing disposed at a distal end of the first guide, and a second bearing disposed at a distal end of the second guide. The first guide is arranged to mate with the second bearing, and the second guide is arranged to mate with the first bearing. The system further includes elastic members, including a first elastic member between the first plate and the second plate and provided concentrically around the first guide to extend in an axial direction along the first guide. |
| US10248091B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing equipment maintenance via a network
A method and apparatus for providing equipment maintenance are disclosed. The method receives data that is captured by at least one sensor deployed at a location, wherein the data is associated with at least one parameter of an equipment, receives atmospheric data for the location, monitors the at least one parameter of the equipment and the atmospheric data for the location, determines for the at least one parameter, whether an update to a risk measure associated with the equipment is needed, when a deviation from a baseline is detected that is greater than a threshold for a maximum deviation from the baseline, performs the update to the risk measure associated with the equipment, when the update to the risk measure associated with the equipment is needed, and generates a ticket for a remedial action based on the risk measure, when the risk measure triggers the scheduling of the remedial action. |
| US10248087B2 |
System and device using spectrum-impact-smoothed channel sequencing and deferred acknowledgments
Disclosed herein are wireless devices operable at intermediate wireless at ranges of thousands of meters, utilizing packets that include a preamble and a data payload. Devices may be such things as keypads, door latches, occupancy monitors, sprinkler controllers and other devices needing a communications link. A digital spread-spectrum frequency hopping rotation is used, wherein packet transmissions rotate through frequency sequences. A spectrum-impact-smoothed channel set is fashioned using sequences that each specify a unique preamble frequency relative to the other sequences and channels. The set is traversed as packets are transmitted, thereby distributing the focused radio-frequency emission impact of packets having long preambles over time. Packet acknowledgments are deferred until a group of packets in a stream has been exchanged. Detailed information on various example embodiments of the inventions are provided in the Detailed Description below, and the inventions are defined by the appended claims. |
| US10248084B2 |
Controller, control method, and control program
A controller having an auto-tuning function has a manipulated value determination unit that selectively determines a first manipulated value for causing a first change in a controlled value of a controlled object or a second manipulated value for causing a second change opposite to the first change in the controlled value, in accordance with a preset parameter, so that a process value obtained from the controlled object follows a target value, and a tuning unit that alternately outputs the first manipulated value and the second manipulated value in accordance with the process value, and that determines the parameter from a response characteristic obtained through the alternate output. The tuning unit successively changes a magnitude of the first manipulated value each time output is switched during the alternate output of the first manipulated value and the second manipulated value. |
| US10248083B2 |
Reference time generator
A reference time generator including a first clock source including a reference synthesizer and cesium atomic clock configured to produce a cesium reference signal and a cesium QOT metric, a second clock source including a reference synthesizer and rubidium atomic clock configured to produce a rubidium reference signal and a rubidium QOT metric, and a circuit for selecting from the clock sources one reference signal based on the best QOT metric. |
| US10248079B2 |
Image-forming apparatus provided with urging member for urging process cartridge
An image-forming apparatus includes: a main body; a toner cartridge having a first opening; a process cartridge having a photosensitive drum and a second opening; a positioning part; a transfer unit; and an urging member. The toner cartridge and process cartridge are attachable to and detachable from the main body in an axial direction of the photosensitive drum. The positioning part and transfer unit are positioned above the process cartridge attached to the main body. The positioning part fixes the attached process cartridge in position relative to the main body. The urging member urges the attached process cartridge toward the positioning part and urges the process cartridge such that the toner can be supplied from the toner cartridge to the process cartridge through the first opening and the second opening when the toner cartridge and the process cartridge are attached to the main body. |
| US10248078B2 |
Process cartridge
A developing roller and a photosensitive drum are aligned in a second direction different from a first direction. A toner storage portion stores toner to be supplied to the photosensitive drum by the developing roller. A waste-toner storage portion stores toner conveyed through a conveyance pipe. The waste-toner storage portion has a main portion and a protruding portion protruding from the main portion in the first direction. A drum cartridge has a guide portion configured to guide the protruding portion of the waste-toner storage portion when a developing cartridge is being mounted on the drum cartridge. The guide portion includes first and second guides. The first guide extends in a third direction different from the first and second directions. The second guide continues from the first guide and is located closer to the photosensitive drum than the first guide is. The second guide extends in the second direction. |
| US10248077B2 |
Cartridge and cover member
A cartridge includes a cover member including a substantially disc-shaped planar portion extending in a direction orthogonal to an axis of rotation of a photosensitive drum, a first projection portion projecting from the planar portion toward an outside in the direction of the axis of rotation, the first projection portion configured to abut on the positioning portion so that the first frame is positioned within an apparatus main body, a concave portion recessed from the planar portion toward an inner side in the direction of the axis of rotation, and a second projection portion provided in the concave portion, the second projection portion projecting from the concave portion toward an outside in the direction of the axis of rotation, the second projection portion configured to engage with one end of an urging member. |
| US10248072B2 |
Cleaning roller provided with shaft and elastic body wound thereabout
A cleaning roller includes a shaft and an elastic body. The shaft extends in an axial direction where a center axis of the shaft extends. The shaft defines a radial direction and has a circumferential surface. The elastic body is helically wound about the shaft and defines a helical direction. The elastic body has a widthwise dimension in a widthwise direction orthogonal to the helical direction and to the radial direction. The elastic body has a base end portion extending in the helical direction and a distal end portion extending in the helical direction. The base end portion is in contact with the circumferential surface and fixed thereto. The distal end portion has a sharp edge and is positioned farthest from the circumferential surface in the radial direction. The widthwise dimension is gradually reduced from the base end portion to the distal end portion in the radial direction. |
| US10248071B2 |
Drive transmitter and image forming apparatus incorporating the drive transmitter
A drive transmitter that is applicable to an image forming apparatus includes a first coupler, a second coupler, and reinforcing ribs. The first coupler is mounted on an axial end of a first rotary shaft and is provided with extensions. The extensions extend in an axial direction of the first coupler and are arranged at intervals in a rotation direction thereof. The second coupler is mounted on an axial end of a second rotary shaft and is provided with contact parts to which the respective extensions contact between the first rotary shaft and the second rotary shaft upon drive transmission. The reinforcing ribs are provided to the respective extensions and reinforce the respective extensions. |
| US10248068B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus determines a toner density erroneous detection state based on a patch image density in patch detection auto toner replenishing and, when the toner density erroneous detection state is determined, offsets a target toner density by the amount of erroneous detection so that the actual toner density becomes a desired toner density. |
| US10248066B2 |
Image forming system, image forming apparatus, and authentication server
When a first image forming apparatus 1 cannot perform printing based on a print instruction from a user, the first image forming apparatus 1 (a1) makes a substitution printing request to a second image forming apparatus 2 and (a2) receives a temporary authentication ID from this second image forming apparatus 2 and notifies the user of it if the user is not managed by an authentication server 4 that manages this second image forming apparatus 2. If the user is not managed by the authentication server 4 and not authenticated when receiving the substitution printing request, the second image forming apparatus 2 (b1) requests the authentication server 4 to issue the authentication ID, (b2) receives the authentication ID and notifies the apparatus 1 of it, and (b3) receives a user inputted authentication ID and performs the printing if the inputted authentication ID is identical to the received one. |
| US10248065B1 |
Image formation control apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image formation control apparatus includes a setting reception section that collectively receives settings of a plurality of adjustment factors with respect to image formation, an instruction section that instructs an image forming apparatus main body to perform adjustments with respect to the settings of the adjustment factors, which are received by the setting reception section, an adjustment result reception section that receives results of the adjustments of the respective adjustment factors, which are instructed by the instruction section, in the image forming apparatus main body, and a controller that performs control such that the results of the adjustments of the respective adjustment factors, which are received by the adjustment result reception section, are stored in company with a recording medium accommodation unit that accommodates a recording medium. |
| US10248064B2 |
Image forming apparatus for continuously executed printing and control program
An image forming apparatus includes: a print job acquisitor that acquires a print job; a hardware processor that calculates, before starting printing based on the print job, a distance in a paper conveying direction in which the printing is continuously executed, and in a case where the distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance, allows a user to select at least one image as a print image out of a first image generated on the basis of the print job and a second image different from the first image; and a printing part that prints the print image selected by the user on paper. |
| US10248060B2 |
Fixing device including a friction reducing sheet and a heat equalizing sheet and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes: a fixing belt that is endless and rotatable; a heating member that heats the fixing belt; a pressure member that is rotatable and presses the fixing belt from outside; a pad member that forms a fixing nip by sandwiching the fixing belt with the pressure member; a support member that supports the pad member; a friction reducing sheet that is provided between the fixing belt and the pad member and reduces friction with the fixing belt; and a heat equalizing sheet that is provided between the friction reducing sheet and the pad member and heats the fixing belt at the fixing nip uniformly in a width direction of a paper sheet passing through the fixing nip. |
| US10248058B2 |
Mounted fixing apparatus for fixing an image formed on a recording medium
The present invention relates to a fixing apparatus including a tubular film, a heater provided at an inside of the film, a protection element provided at the inside of the film, and at least one conductive member provided at the inside of the film. The protection element includes two terminals and a switch that turns off to shut off power to the heater when the heater abnormally generates heat. A first end of the conductive member is electrically connected to one of the terminals of the protection element. The conductive member is not coated with an insulator, and a second end of the conductive member projects out of the film so that the cost of the fixing apparatus is reduced. |
| US10248053B2 |
Transfer assist members
A transfer assist member comprising a plurality of layers, one of the layers being a check film layer comprised of a hydroxyl terminated poly(oxetane) based fluorinated polyether. |
| US10248050B2 |
Developing device having magnetic sealing members
A developing device includes a developing container, a rotatable developer carrying member, and a magnetic field generator. Magnetic members are provided at end portions of the developer carrying member with a gap to an outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member, and magnet members are provided opposed to the magnetic members so as to magnetize the magnetic members. The outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member includes a first region including a developing region corresponding to an image forming region and a second region outside and adjacent to the first region and having lower developer feeding power than the first region or having substantially no feeding power. The first region is larger than a region between outside surfaces of the magnetic members and is smaller than a region between inside surfaces of the magnet members. |
| US10248048B2 |
Electrophotographic image forming device having a replaceable unit that includes an engagement member for positioning a magnetic sensor
An electrophotographic image forming device includes a replaceable unit having a housing that includes a top, a bottom, a front, and a rear positioned between a first side and a second side of the housing. The housing has a reservoir for storing toner. A rotatable shaft is positioned within the reservoir and has an axis of rotation. A magnet in the reservoir is movable in response to rotation of the shaft. An engagement member is positioned on an exterior of the top of the housing. The engagement member is aligned with a point in a path of movement of the magnet in the reservoir. The engagement member has a front surface that is unobstructed to contact and push a housing in the image forming device supporting a magnetic sensor to an operating position of the magnetic sensor during insertion of the replaceable unit into the image forming device. |
| US10248046B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus comprises a controller, an adjustment unit configured to adjust an image forming condition based on an adjustment condition corresponding to a profile of a toner adhesion amount in a sheet conveying direction, and an image forming unit configured to form an image on a sheet with the adjusted image forming condition while conveying the sheet. |
| US10248045B2 |
Image forming apparatus with developer fluidity measurement
An object of the invention is to accurately grasp the fluidity of a developer and give proper feedback to an image forming process. An image forming device has a developing unit developing a latent image by transferring a developer to an image carrier, a fluidity measuring unit measuring fluidity of the developer, a correction amount computing unit computing a fluidity correction amount for correcting the fluidity of the developer measured by the fluidity measuring unit, and a process control unit changing a process condition of an image forming process. The process control unit selects, on the basis of the fluidity of the developer corrected based on the fluidity correction amount, an image forming process of changing a process condition from a plurality of image forming processes. |
| US10248038B1 |
Graphene-containing toners and related methods
Graphene-containing toners are provided. In an embodiment, a graphene-containing toner comprises a core comprising graphene, a crystalline polyester resin, and an amorphous polyester resin, the toner further comprising a shell over the core. Methods of making and using the toners are also provided. |
| US10248036B2 |
Positively chargeable toner
A positively chargeable toner includes a plurality of toner particles each including a toner mother particle and external additives adhering to a surface of the toner mother particle. The toner particles of the positively chargeable toner each include a silica particle as one of the external additives and a titania particle as another one of the external additives. The silica particle has on a surface thereof an alkyl group having a carbon number of at least 8 and no greater than 16 and an amino group. The titania particle has an amino group on a surface thereof. The titania particle has a volume resistivity of at least 1.0×109 Ω·cm and no greater than 1.0×1011 Ω·cm. The silica particles have an average primary particle diameter larger than that of the titania particles. |
| US10248035B2 |
Lithographic apparatus
A lithographic apparatus includes a first table to support a substrate; a second table, not being configured to support a substrate, including a sensor unit to sense a property of a patterned beam of radiation from a projection system, the second table to move under the projection system when the first table is moved out from under the projection system during a substrate exchange, the first and second tables being independently movable from each other; and a liquid supply system to supply a liquid to a space between the projection system and the substrate, the first table, and/or the second table, wherein the second table is configured to provide a confining surface at a bottom of a liquid confinement structure when the first table is removed from under the projection system so as to prevent the liquid from leaking out into the remainder of the lithographic apparatus. |
| US10248029B2 |
Method and apparatus for inspection and metrology
A method involving a radiation intensity distribution for a target measured using an optical component at a gap from the target, the method including: determining a value of a parameter of interest using the measured radiation intensity distribution and a mathematical model describing the target, the model including an effective medium approximation for roughness of a surface of the optical component or a part thereof. |
| US10248026B2 |
Method for etching protective film, method for producing template, and template produced thereby
A substrate having a protective film formed on a front surface and a recess in a back surface opposite the front surface is prepared. A resist pattern is formed on the protective film. The protective film is etched using plasma while applying a bias voltage, using the resist pattern as a mask. The bias voltage is increased according to the manner of decrease in the dielectric constant of a region of the substrate corresponding to a covered region of the front surface at which the protective film is present. |
| US10248023B1 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes: coating a first resist containing a photoacid generator or a thermal acid generator on a semiconductor substrate; forming a first opening portion in the first resist by optical exposure; subjecting a shrink agent containing an acid to a crosslinking reaction by the heat treatment to form a thermoset layer on an overall surface of the first resist; coating a second resist on the semiconductor substrate and the thermoset layer; and forming a second opening portion located above the first opening portion and larger than the first opening portion in the second resist by optical exposure. |
| US10248018B2 |
Imprint apparatus and method of manufacturing article
The present invention provides an imprint apparatus which molds an imprint material on a shot region formed on a substrate by using a mold including a pattern surface on which a pattern is formed, comprising a holding unit configured to change a position and orientation of the mold, and a control unit configured to cause the holding unit to incline the mold, and bring the mold and the imprint material into contact with each other while the mold is inclined, wherein after the control unit obtains a shift amount by which a mark on the mold shifts by inclining the mold, and changes relative positions of the mold and the substrate according to the shift amount, the control unit brings the mold and the imprint material into contact with each other. |
| US10248013B2 |
Light source apparatus and projector
A light source apparatus according to an aspect of the invention includes a light source array including a plurality of first light emitting devices and a plurality of second light emitting devices and a light branching element that causes a first light ray flux emitted from the plurality of first light emitting devices and a second light ray flux emitted from the plurality of second light emitting devices to travel in directions different from each other. The light source array is formed of a plurality of series circuits including a first series circuit and a second series circuit. The first series circuit and the second series circuit each include at least one of the plurality of first light emitting devices and at least one of the plurality of second light emitting devices. |
| US10248012B2 |
Laser speckle-removing optical component, laser source and laser projection equipment
This disclosure provides a laser speckle-removing optical component, including a beam-shrinking lens group and a diffusion sheet arranged on a laser emergent optical path, where the beam-shrinking lens group includes a first beam-shrinking lens and a second beam-shrinking lens, and the diffusion sheet is located between the first beam-shrinking lens and the second beam-shrinking lens, and a distance between the diffusion sheet and the first beam-shrinking lens is shorter than a focal length of the first beam-shrinking lens. The arrangement of the diffusion sheet between the first beam-shrinking lens and the second beam-shrinking lens is able to alleviate the accumulation phenomenon of dust particles on the diffusion sheet, therefore, alleviating light attenuation phenomenon, and prolonging the service life of the laser source. This disclosure also provides a double-color laser source, a three-color laser source and a laser projection equipment applying the above laser speckle-removing optical component. |
| US10248011B2 |
Projection apparatus, control method thereof and storage medium
A projection apparatus includes a light source that emits light, a projection unit that projects an image on a projection surface based on the light emitted by the light source, a projection control unit that controls the light source and the projection unit, a control unit that controls the projection control unit based on schedule information where an operation of the projection apparatus and a time of performing the operation are associated in advance, and a storage unit that stores a number of operations of turning on/off the light source and a total lighting time of the light source. If the control unit performs a power-off operation of the projection apparatus based on the schedule information, the control unit controls whether to turn off the light source based on the power-off operation based on the number of the operations and the total lighting time. |
| US10248009B1 |
Camera pole
A camera pole for elevating and controlling a camera. A pole having a base section and a least one telescoping section which extends from the base section. Where a final telescoping section is a top section that is highest and the base section is closest to ground level. A stand to receive the pole and support the pole. A camera control assembly comprising an camera mount, tension cable and handle assembly that can be adjusted for any pole height. |
| US10248006B2 |
Imaging apparatus with display and image display apparatus
A digital camera is provided with a vertically long camera body having an approximately rectangular solid shape. An LCD panel provided in a rear surface of the camera body is arranged such that longitudinal directions of the display screen and the camera body correspond to each other. The digital camera is operated through a touch panel provided in a lower portion of the display screen. In a taking mode, an image is displayed in a small size on an upper portion of the display screen. In reproducing, the camera body is rotated sideways by 90 degree. In a reproducing mode, display posture of the image is also rotated by 90 degree, and the image is displayed in a large size on the entire display screen. |
| US10248002B2 |
Optical circuit, and optical switch using same
In an optical circuit using a Mach-Zehnder-type element, it is difficult to obtain an optical circuit which has a less wavelength dependence and is suitable for achieving high integration. Accordingly, an optical circuit according to the present invention includes: a first Mach-Zehnder-type element including a first branch waveguide, a first branching/combining unit connected to one end of the first branch waveguide, and a second branching/combining unit connected to another end of the first branch waveguide and having a branch configuration different from that of the first branching/combining unit; and a second Mach-Zehnder-type element including a second branch waveguide, a third branching/combining unit connected to one end of the second branch waveguide, and a fourth branching/combining unit connected to another end of the second branch waveguide and having a branch configuration different from that of the third branching/combining unit. The first branch waveguide and the second branch waveguide each include a phase difference adjustment means. In the second branching/combining unit and the third branching/combining unit, light coupling between two basic modes with a phase inverted and a higher-order mode, is smaller than that in the first branching/combining unit and the fourth branching/combining unit. The first Mach-Zehnder-type element and the second Mach-Zehnder-type element are connected with each other through the second branching/combining unit and the third branching/combining unit. |
| US10248001B1 |
Varifocal structure comprising a liquid lens structure in optical series with a liquid crystal lens in a head-mounted display
A varifocal block includes liquid crystal (LC) lens and a liquid lens structure in optical series. The LC lens has a plurality of optical states, including an additive state that adds optical power to the LC lens and a subtractive state that removes optical power from the LC lens. The liquid lens structure comprises a transparent substrate layer, a deformable membrane, and a volume of liquid enclosed between the transparent substrate layer and the deformable membrane. The deformable membrane has an adjustable range of optical power dependent on an adjustable curvature of the deformable membrane. The plurality of optical states of the LC lens and the adjustable range of optical power of the liquid lens structure together provide a continuous range of optical power for the varifocal block. |
| US10247995B2 |
Electro-optic element with high double image ratio
A variable transmittance electro-optic assembly includes a first partially reflective, partially transmissive substrate defining first and second surfaces. A second partially reflective, partially transmissive substrate defines a third surface and a fourth surface. The first substrate and the second substrate are configured to be held in a parallel spaced apart relationship and sealed about a perimeter of the first and second substrates. An electro-optic material is positioned between the second surface and the third surface. The electro-optic assembly includes a principle transflector having a transflector coating on at least one of first and second surfaces. Low reflectance coatings are disposed on secondary surfaces of the variable transmittance electro-optic assembly. The electro-optic assembly has a high double image characteristic defined by a ratio of a reflectance of the transflector coating to a net reflectance of at least one of the secondary surfaces, and further wherein the ratio is greater than 50. |
| US10247994B2 |
Pixel unit and driving method thereof
The present invention provides a pixel unit and a driving method thereof. By electrically connecting the source of the charge sharing thin film transistor to the scan line corresponding to the next row of sub pixels of the sub pixel where the charge sharing thin film transistor is and setting the voltage level of the scan line corresponding to the next row of sub pixels to be the array substrate common voltage when the sub pixel is scanned, the main region and the sub region of the sub pixel have different voltage levels, and the additional arrangement of a line of the array substrate common voltage is not required. In comparison with prior art, the number of wires in the array substrate is reduced and the aperture ratio of the liquid crystal display panel is increased which facilitates the realization of the narrow frame of the liquid crystal display panel. |
| US10247991B2 |
Electro-optical device and electronic apparatus with a pixel that includes three transparent electrodes
A liquid crystal device comprises a first substrate, a second substrate disposed facing the first substrate, a light shielding layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, a transistor disposed above the first substrate, a data line that supplies image signals to the transistor, a scanning line that supplies scanning signals to the transistor and disposed across with the data line, a first transparent electrode disposed between the second substrate and the first substrate, a second transparent electrode disposed between the first transparent electrode and the first substrate, an insulating film disposed between the second transparent electrode and the first substrate, and a third transparent electrode disposed between the insulating film and the first substrate. The light shielding layer overlaps with the transistor in a plan view of the first substrate. |
| US10247988B2 |
Display device
According to one embodiment, a display device includes an insulating substrate including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a circuit board mounted on the first surface, a supporting member adhered to the insulating substrate on the second surface, and an antistatic layer located between the insulating substrate and the supporting member. |
| US10247986B2 |
Backlight module
Disclosed is a backlight module. The backlight module includes a backplane. The backplane is provided with a groove therethrough. Two sides and/or two ends of an optical diaphragm of the backlight module each are connected with a bendable flap which passes through the groove and is attached to the backplane. The backlight module has a simple structure without a plastic frame or a frame sealant, and an optical diaphragm in the backlight module can be fixed. A super narrow frame of the backlight module can be realized. |
| US10247984B2 |
Backlight module
A backlight module including a back board, a reflector, at least one light source, at least one lens unit, and a light leakage feature is disclosed. The reflector includes a base and at least one side wall connected to the base and is disposed on the back board. The light source is disposed on the board and emits light. The lens unit is disposed on the light source and configured to diffuse the light emitted from the light source for generating light rays impinging on the side wall. The light-leakage feature is disposed at the side wall and configured to allow some of the light rays to pass through the side wall. |
| US10247981B2 |
Reflective liquid crystal display device
A reflective liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate on which a plurality of pixel areas are defined, a second substrate facing the first substrate, a cholesteric liquid crystal (“CLC”) layer between the first substrate and the second substrate, a linear polarization member on the second substrate, a retardation member between the linear polarization member and the CLC layer, a light absorbing layer on the first substrate, and a light conversion member corresponding to the pixel area and interposed between the CLC layer and the light absorbing layer. |
| US10247970B2 |
Measuring strain on display device
A display includes an integrated strain-gauge layer in or on the display for measuring the strain at a plurality of locations on the display. The display is deformable and secured to a display device by a first chassis. A method includes measuring, over a period of time, strain of the display of a first device at the plurality of locations and recording the strain measurements in a memory of the display device. Strain measurements associated with a failure of the display may be identified. The method may include simulating a dynamic system including a model of a second device. The model of the second device includes a model of a second chassis different than the first chassis and a model of the display associated with the failure. Simulating the dynamic system may include simulating deformation of the model of the display based on the identified strain measurements. |
| US10247964B2 |
Lens for correction of myopic refractive error
An ophthalmic lens element includes an upper distance viewing zone and a lower near viewing zone. The upper distance viewing zone includes a central region with a first refractive power for clear distance vision and peripheral regions that are relatively positive in power compared to the first refractive power. The lower near viewing zone has a central region that is relatively positive in power compared to the first refractive power to account for accommodative lag. The powers of the peripheral regions of the lower near viewing zone are one of: i) equal to the power of the central region of the lower near viewing zone, ii) relatively positive in comparison to the power of the central region of the lower near viewing zone. |
| US10247962B2 |
Method of calculating an optical system of a progressive addition ophthalmic lens being arranged to output a supplementary image
A progressive ophthalmic spectacle lens (10) capable of correcting a wearer's ophthalmic vision and having a back surface (BS) and a front surface (FS), said lens comprising a light guide optical element arranged to output a supplementary image (SI) to the wearer through an exit surface (ES) of said light guide optical element, where the exit surface (ES), the back surface (BS) and an optical material located between said exit surface (ES) and said back surface (BS) form an optical device (OD) and wherein said optical device (OD) comprises an area of stabilized optical power. |
| US10247960B2 |
Method for making a spectacle lens
The invention is directed to a method for making a spectacle lens for a non-presbyopic person wherein the spectacle lens is a ready-to-wear lens and has at least one zone having an optical effect to reduce vision stress. In the method, at least one of the following is provided: the contour of the ready-to-wear spectacle lens and one or several visual points whereat the person looks through the ready-to-wear spectacle lens for one or several visual tasks in the near range. This method step is followed by setting at least one of: a design reference point of the zone, the extent of the zone, the optical effect within the zone based on the provided contour, and the visual points. The spectacle lens is then made with this zone. |
| US10247958B1 |
Method and apparatus for retaining eyeglasses
The present invention includes an apparatus and a method for retaining eyeglasses on a remote panel with a holding element positioned on the remote panel and a temple element positioned on the eyeglasses. |
| US10247955B2 |
Lens drive device
An X-axis movable object holding portion to hold an X-axis movable object to be movable in an X-axis direction is provided at a position facing an X-axis actuator with an optical axis between the X-axis movable object holding portion and the X-axis actuator in a base member. A Y-axis movable object holding portion to hold a Y-axis movable object to be movable in a Y-axis direction is provided at a position facing a Y-axis actuator with the optical axis between the Y-axis movable object holding portion and the Y-axis actuator in the X-axis movable object. An auxiliary member supports a carrier actuator to move a lens carrier. In the lens carrier, a movement of the direction of the optical axis is regulated by a carrier stopper mechanism. |
| US10247951B2 |
Transparent display
A display has an array of light emitting display pixels occupying pixel areas, and a polarizing light transmissive area between the pixel areas. This polarization can be used to improve the contrast ratio of a transparent 2D display. However, it can also be used to enable a transparent 3D display to be formed without distortion of the see-through transparent display function. For this purpose, the light emitting display pixels can emit polarized light orthogonal to the polarization provided by the light transmissive area. |
| US10247950B2 |
Three-dimensional image display device
A three-dimensional display panel includes an array of pixels arranged in row and column directions, and at least one lenticular lens configured to form N viewpoints in different directions. The at least one lenticular lens has a longitudinal axis inclined by an angle of θ with respect to a column direction of the pixel, and a pitch P of the at least one lenticular lens in the row direction thereof satisfies ( N S ) A < P < ( ( N + 1 ) S ) A , where N is the number of the viewpoints and is an integer greater than or equal to 1, S is the number of the lenticular lenses used to form the N viewpoints and is an integer greater than or equal to 1, and A is a width of each pixel in the row direction. |
| US10247941B2 |
Vehicle vision system with light field monitor
A vision system of a vehicle includes a display configured to be disposed in the vehicle so as to be operable to display images for viewing by an occupant of the vehicle. The display includes a light field display. The system may include at least one camera configured to be disposed at a vehicle so as to have a respective field of view exterior of the vehicle, whereby the display may display images derived from image data captured by the at least one camera. The vision system may include a head-up display system having the light field display disposed at or in the instrumental panel and projecting images onto a combiner on top of the dashboard facing the driver of the vehicle. |
| US10247940B2 |
Objective lens system
An alignment system uses a self-referencing interferometer that incorporates an objective lens system having a plurality of lens element groups. In an embodiment, the objective is configured and arranged to provide a large numerical aperture, long working distance, and low wavefront error. |
| US10247937B2 |
Light emitting wheel with eccentricity for dispelling a thermal boundary layer
A light emitting wheel with eccentricity for dispelling a thermal boundary layer a light emitting material is provided, including a device comprising: a light emitting material; a cooling plate configured to cool the light emitting material, the cooling plate comprising a center-of-mass that is different from a center-of-rotation of the cooling plate; and, a hub located at the center-of-rotation of the cooling plate. |
| US10247934B2 |
Method for examining a specimen by means of light sheet microscopy
A method for examining a specimen via light sheet microscopy includes selecting several illumination wavelengths for the specimen. To structure the illumination light, a predefined phase distribution is impressed on the phase-selective element and a predefined aperture structure is impressed on an aperture in the aperture plane. The phase-selective element is then illuminated in an intermediate image plane in an illumination beam path with illumination light, which is structured by the phase-selective element. The structured illumination light is imaged into an aperture plane arranged downstream of the phase-selective element. The aperture structure is adapted such that the zero orders of the structured illumination light in the aperture plane are substantially removed. The specimen is illuminated with the structured light sheet in the light sheet plane. Light emitted by the specimen is detected in a detection direction which forms an angle different from zero with the light sheet plane. |
| US10247931B2 |
Optical measurement method and device
An optical measurement method and an optical measurement device for determining the spatial or spatiotemporal distribution of a sample, the sample comprising at least one retransmission source retransmitting light depending on light projected onto the sample according to a predetermined law. The method has steps of projection onto the sample of at least two compact light distributions belonging to different topological families, which propagate along the same optical path; detection of the light retransmitted by said at least one retransmission source of the sample; generation of at least one optical image from the detected light; and algorithmic analysis of the optical images for obtaining location data on said at least one retransmission source. |
| US10247925B2 |
Compact image intensifier objective with gradient index lenses
An innovative design for a compact objective lens for use with a digital image intensification camera is described, which uses lenses made with gradient index materials to reduce the number of lens elements required, length and weight over conventional objective lens systems. |
| US10247923B1 |
Camera optical lens
The present disclosure discloses a camera optical lens. The camera optical lens including, in an order from an object side to an image side, a first lens, a second lens having a positive refractive power, a third lens having a negative refractive power, a fourth lens, a fifth lens, and a sixth lens. The first lens is made of plastic material, the second lens is made of plastic material, the third lens is made of glass material, the fourth lens is made of plastic material, the fifth lens is made of glass material, and the sixth lens is made of plastic material. The camera optical lens further satisfies specific conditions. |
| US10247919B1 |
Camera optical lens
The present disclosure discloses a camera optical lens. The camera optical lens including, in an order from an object side to an image side, a first lens, a second lens, a third lens, a fourth lens, a fifth lens, a sixth lens and a seventh lens. The first lens is made of plastic material, the second lens is made of glass material, the third lens is made of plastic material, the fourth lens is made of plastic material, the fifth lens is made of plastic material, the sixth lens is made of plastic material, and the seventh lens is made of glass material. The camera optical lens further satisfies specific conditions. |
| US10247917B1 |
Camera optical lens
The present disclosure discloses a camera optical lens. The camera optical lens including, in an order from an object side to an image side, a first lens, a second lens, a third lens, a fourth lens, a fifth lens, a sixth lens and a seventh lens. The camera optical lens further satisfies specific conditions. |
| US10247916B2 |
Optical imaging system
An optical imaging system includes a first lens having a positive refractive power, a second lens having a refractive index of 1.65 or greater, a third lens having positive refractive power and a refractive index of 1.65 or greater, a fourth lens having a positive refractive power, a fifth lens having a refractive index of 1.65 or greater, a sixth lens having a refractive index of 1.65 or greater, and a seventh lens having a positive refractive power. The first to seventh lenses are sequentially disposed from an object side to an imaging plane. |
| US10247915B2 |
Optical image capturing system
An optical image capturing system includes, along the optical axis in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens, a second lens, a third lens, a fourth lens, a fifth lens, a sixth lens, and a seventh lens. At least one lens among the first to the sixth lenses has positive refractive power. The seventh lens can have negative refractive power, wherein both surfaces thereof are aspheric, and at least one surface thereof has an inflection point. The lenses in the optical image capturing system which have refractive power include the first to the seventh lenses. The optical image capturing system can increase aperture value and improve the imaging quality for use in compact cameras. |
| US10247913B2 |
Optical image capturing system
An optical image capturing system includes, along the optical axis in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens, a second lens, a third lens, a fourth lens, a fifth lens, a sixth lens, and a seventh lens. At least one lens among the first to the sixth lenses has positive refractive power. The seventh lens can have negative refractive power, wherein both surfaces thereof are aspheric, and at least one surface thereof has an inflection point. The lenses in the optical image capturing system which have refractive power include the first to the seventh lenses. The optical image capturing system can increase aperture value and improve the imaging quality for use in compact cameras. |
| US10247912B2 |
Image pickup lens and camera module including the same
Embodiments provide an image pickup lens including a first lens to a sixth lens arranged in sequence from an object side to an image side. A first surface of the third lens facing the object side has a radius of curvature greater than a radius of curvature of a second surface of the third lens facing the image side. A combined focal distance of the fourth lens and the fifth lens is greater than 1 and less than 3. The fourth lens and the fifth lens each have an index of refraction of below 1.7. An image surface of the sixth lens has a point of inflection. |
| US10247908B2 |
Adjustable mirror bracket
An adjustable mirror bracket is provided for supporting a mirror in a rearward facing position on a watercraft. The mirror bracket includes a base member having a body having a socket formed therein and a spherical bearing within the socket and including a stud projecting therefrom. The mirror bracket also includes a pivot member having a cupped lower end shaped to conform to the hemispherical top end of the base member, a bore formed through the cupped lower end for receiving the stud of the spherical bearing, and an attachment surface formed in an upper end of the pivot member. An elongate support arm is provided and is pivotally attached with a fastener to the attachment surface of the pivot member at the first end of the support arm. |
| US10247902B2 |
Motor and apparatus using the same
A motor includes a vibrator, a mover guided by a guide member to move with the vibrator, and rollers sandwiched between the mover and the guide member. The mover includes first and second groove shapes formed along a moving direction of the vibrator to separate from each other. The guide member includes first and second guide parts opposite to the first and second groove shapes, respectively. The rollers are sandwiched among the first and second groove shapes, and the first and second guide parts. On a rear side of a surface of the guide member where the first and second guide parts are formed, the mover includes regulating parts regulating a movement of the guide member to the rear side. When the guide member abuts against the regulating parts, part of each of the rolling balls is positioned inside the first and second groove shapes. |
| US10247886B2 |
Fiber optic cable slack management module
A fiber optic cable slack management module includes a base defining a first cable management spool, an outer face of which is configured to contact cables when cables are pulled away from the base and a second cable management spool, within which the first cable management spool is located. An inner face of the second cable management spool is configured to contact cables when cables are in a relaxed, non-pulled state. The fiber optic cable slack management module defines a cable exit adjacent the first cable management spool and defined at least partially by the inner face of the second cable management spool, the cable exit defined by a channel positioned between the first and second cable management spools. |
| US10247885B2 |
Optical connector, and optical connector manufacturing method
An optical connector includes a holding member that has a main body section including a bottom wall section and a pair of side wall sections. The holding member is capable of holding, in a space surrounded by the bottom wall section and the pair of side wall sections, an optical cable including a layer of a fibrous tensile member and an optical connector main body including a fixing section that fixes the holding member. The holding member also includes a pinching member that is configured to pinch the fibrous tensile member between itself and an outer surface of the bottom wall section of the main body section. The fixing section includes a pair of inner surfaces that pinches the main body section and the pinching member from a direction in which the pinching member and the bottom wall section pinch the fibrous tensile member. |
| US10247880B2 |
Fiber Bragg grating interrogator assembly and method for the same
A fiber Bragg grating interrogator assembly, comprising: an optical fiber including a fiber Bragg grating (FBG; 122) having a variable Bragg wavelength (λB) and a dynamic range of interest (Δλdyn,B) over which the Bragg wavelength (λB) can shift during use; —a light source operably connected to the optical fiber, and configured to illuminate the fiber Bragg grating to solicit a response therefrom; and an response analyzer, including: a spectrally selective device having an input port and a plurality of output ports (149-n), wherein the input port is operably connected to the optical fiber and wherein each of the output ports is associated with a respective spectral range (Δλn), said spectrally selective device being configured to provide a spectral energy distribution of a response of the fiber Bragg grating received on the input port onto said output ports. |
| US10247872B2 |
Dual-sided film with split light spreading structures
Dual-sided optical films have extended split spreading structures formed on one major surface, and extended prisms formed on an opposite major surface. One portion of each split spreading structure has a low light spreading characteristic, and another portion has a high light spreading characteristic. For each split spreading structure, the low light spreading portion may be disposed alongside the high light spreading portion. The split spreading structures may be arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the prisms. Light that enters a given prism from one inclined surface thereof can be associated primarily with light transmitted through the low light spreading portion of the split spreading structure, and light that enters the given prism from the other inclined surface thereof can be associated primarily with light transmitted through the high light spreading portion. |
| US10247871B2 |
Optical sheet, display device and light emitting device having the same
Disclosed are an optical member and a display device including the same. The optical member includes a light conversion layer including a plurality of light conversion particles; and a light diffusion layer including a plurality of light path conversion particles under the light conversion layer. |
| US10247866B2 |
Imaging device
An image capture device according to the present disclosure includes: a lens optical system L; an image sensor N on which light that has passed through the lens optical system L is incident and which includes at least a plurality of first pixels and a plurality of second pixels; and an array of optical elements K which is arranged between the lens optical system and the image sensor. The lens optical system has a first optical region D1 which transmits mostly light vibrating in the direction of a first polarization axis and a second optical region D2 which transmits mostly light vibrating in the direction of a second polarization axis that is different from the direction of the first polarization axis. The array of optical elements makes the light that has passed through the first optical region D1 incident on the plurality of first pixels and also makes the light that has passed through the second optical region D2 incident on the plurality of second pixels. |
| US10247864B2 |
Multi-film structure
In the present invention, a multi-film structure being coated on the surface of a workpiece is disclosed. The multi-film structure is formed by making a high-entropy material film of at least two layers and a non-high-entropy material film of at least one layer be stacked on each other. In addition, the multi-film structure can also be formed by making a first high-entropy material film of at least one layer and a second non-high-entropy material film of at least one layer be stacked on each other. This multi-film structure particularly contains interlaminar interfaces to inhibit crack extension and reduce plastic deformation, so that the hardness and toughness of the workpiece coated with this inventive multi-film structure would be obviously enhanced. Moreover, the appearance color of the workpiece can also be changed by the multi-film structure, wherein the color type is dependent on the optical interferences occurring in the multi-film structure. |
| US10247863B2 |
Organic pigment composition for color filters, method for producing same, and color filter
Provided is an organic pigment composition for color filters, which can be used preferably for a color filter that allows to produce a liquid crystal display device which has excellent heat resistance, a brighter display screen, and accordingly higher brightness; a method for producing the same; and a color filter which includes the organic pigment composition for color filters. The color filter has higher heat resistance by using the organic pigment composition for color filters which includes a phthalocyanine pigment and a pigment derivative in which the ratio of a multi-substituted phthalimide alkyl group to the whole amount of the pigment derivative is limited. |
| US10247862B2 |
Mirror, more particularly for a microlithographic projection exposure apparatus
A mirror, in particular for a microlithographic projection exposure apparatus, has a mirror substrate (101), a reflection layer system (102) configured to reflect electromagnetic radiation that is incident on the optically effective surface (100a), and a capping layer (104), which is arranged on the side of the reflection layer system (102) facing the optically effective surface. The capping layer is produced from a first material. Particles (105) of a second material, either individually or in clusters, are applied onto this capping layer, wherein the second material differs from the first material. |
| US10247858B2 |
Liquid crystal half-wave plate lens
A lens includes immobilized liquid crystals. The liquid crystals in a first region are aligned in a first orientation. The liquid crystals in a second region, located between the first region and a third region and adjacent to the first region and the third region, are aligned in a second orientation that is distinct from the first orientation. The liquid crystals in the third region, located between the second region and a fourth region and adjacent to the second region and the fourth region, are aligned in the first orientation. The liquid crystals in the fourth region, located adjacent to the third region, are aligned in the second orientation. A method for making the lens is also disclosed. |
| US10247845B1 |
Utility locator transmitter apparatus and methods
A high-Q human-portable, battery-powered self-correcting tunable transmitter apparatus for inducing alternating currents in buried conductors to facilitate their location is disclosed. |
| US10247844B2 |
Method and system for detection of a material within a region of the earth
Methods and systems for detecting a material within a region of the Earth are provided. The region may be under a surface of earthen formation, ice, snow, or water. The method may be practiced in a variety of applications, for example in an arctic region to detect oil spills, leaks, or seepages. The methods and systems may include using at least one coil to transmit a radio frequency (RF) excitation signal into the region of the Earth; and receive any NMR response signals to determine the presence of the material of interest. |
| US10247840B2 |
Optical well logging
A method of logging a well can include conveying an optical waveguide and at least one signal generator with a conveyance into the well, causing the signal generator to generate at least one signal in the well, and receiving the signal as distributed along the optical waveguide. A well logging system can include a conveyance with an optical waveguide, and at least one signal generator which is conveyed by the conveyance into a well with the optical waveguide, whereby the signal generator generates at least one signal received with the optical waveguide. |
| US10247838B1 |
Directional sensitive fiber optic cable wellbore system
A fiber optic cable assembly includes an elongate housing, a plurality of fiber optic cables placed inside the housing and extending longitudinally, and acoustic isolating material placed inside the housing and extending longitudinally. The acoustic isolating material includes a plurality of outwardly radially extending arms extending from a center of the housing towards a circumference of the housing. The plurality of arms divides a space inside the housing into a plurality of acoustically isolated sections. Each acoustically isolated section extends longitudinally. Each acoustically isolated section includes at least one of the plurality of fiber optic cables. Each acoustically isolated section is acoustically insulated from remaining sections of the plurality of acoustically isolated sections. A surface of the acoustic isolating material of each acoustically isolated section is covered by acoustic reflective material. |
| US10247837B2 |
Portable seismic survey device and method
The present invention is essentially a portable seismic survey device and method using reflection seismology for mapping subterranean formations. The device includes an upper assembly, a firing pin operably associated with a firing pin actuator, a lower assembly including a cartridge holder capable of retaining a blasting cartridge, and a detonation sensor capable of detecting detonation of the blasting cartridge. The detonation sensor transmits a signal to an event marking device to trigger a recordation of detonation time and geographic location of the seismic survey device. A seismic wave is generated upon detonation which is then reflected back toward seismometers. Data from the event marking device and seismometers can then be processed to provide geological formation information. |
| US10247834B1 |
Anodes for improved detection of non-collected adjacent signal
A radiation detector assembly is provided that includes a semiconductor detector, a collimator, plural pixelated anodes, and at least one processor. The collimator has openings defining pixels. Each pixelated anode is configured to generate a primary signal responsive to reception of a photon and to generate at least one secondary signal responsive to reception of a photon by at least one surrounding anode. Each pixelated anode includes a first portion and a second portion located in different openings of the collimator. The at least one processor is operably coupled to the pixelated anodes, and configured to acquire a primary signal from one of the pixelated anodes; acquire at least one secondary signal from at least one neighboring pixelated anode; and determine a location for the reception of the photon using the primary signal and the at least one secondary signal. |
| US10247832B2 |
Hybrid PET / CT imaging detector
An imaging system (102) includes a detector array (104) with a ring (106) with a first layer (110i) that detects gamma radiation and X-ray radiation and a second layer (110N) that detects only gamma radiation, wherein the first and second layers are concentric closed rings. A method includes detecting gamma radiation with a first layer of a dual layer detector in response to imaging in PET mode, detecting gamma radiation with a second layer of the dual layer detector in response to imaging in PET mode, and generating PET image data with the radiation detected with the first and second layers. The method further includes detecting X-ray radiation with the first layer in response to imaging in CT mode and generating CT image data the radiation detected with the first layer. The method further includes displaying the image data. The imaging system allows a single gantry for both PET/CT imaging. |
| US10247831B2 |
Navigation signal processing device, navigation signal processing method, and navigation signal processing program
A navigation signal processing device includes circuitry configured to perform positioning of an antenna based on navigation signals received by the antenna from navigation satellites, set an elevation angle mask that causes inhibition of utilization of the navigation signals that are received from a specific angle range as viewed from the antenna in the positioning of the antenna, and obtain three-dimensional point cloud position data that includes data of multiple points of the surroundings as viewed from the antenna. The multiple points are obtained by a laser scanner or a stereoscopic camera and have determined three-dimensional coordinates. The circuitry is further configured to set the elevation angle mask that causes inhibition of utilization of the navigation signals that are received from a straight line direction connecting the antenna and each of the multiple points of the three-dimensional point cloud position data as viewed from the antenna. |
| US10247827B2 |
Dual-axis scanning mirror
Optical apparatus (64) includes a stator assembly (47), which includes a core (78, 90, 91) containing an air gap and one or more coils (80, 92, 94, 116, 120) including conductive wire wound on the core so as to cause the core to form a magnetic circuit through the air gap in response to an electrical current flowing in the conductive wire. A scanning mirror assembly (45, 83, 85, 130) includes a support structure (68), a base (72), which is mounted to rotate about a first axis relative to the support structure, and a mirror (46), which is mounted to rotate about a second axis relative to the base. At least one rotor (76, 132) includes one or more permanent magnets, which are fixed to the scanning mirror assembly and which are positioned in the air gap so as to move in response to the magnetic circuit. A driver (82) is coupled to generate the electrical current in the one or more coils. |
| US10247826B2 |
Detection apparatus, fish finder, and radar
A detection apparatus is provided. The detection apparatus includes a hardware processor programmed to at least calculate a first echo intensity of a first reception signal generated from a reception wave reflected on reflection objects, calculate a second echo intensity of a second reception signal generated from a reception wave reflected on the reflection objects, a signal duration of the second reception signal being shorter than that of the first reception signal, generate a first frequency distribution of the first echo intensity, generate a second frequency distribution of the second echo intensity, and extract a density of the reflection objects or an index of density of the reflection objects based on a comparison of the first frequency distribution and the second frequency distribution. |
| US10247823B2 |
Sonar rendering systems and associated methods
Sonar rendering systems and methods are described herein. One example is an apparatus that includes a transducer element, position sensing circuitry, processing circuitry, and a display device. The processing circuitry may be configured to receive raw sonar data and positioning data, convert the raw sonar data into range cell data based at least on amplitudes of the return echoes, make a location-based association between the raw sonar data and the positioning data, plot the range cell data based on respective positions derived from the positioning data and rotate the range cell data based on a direction of movement of the watercraft to generate adjusted range cell data. The processing circuitry may be further configured to convert the adjusted range cell data into sonar image data, and cause the display device to render the sonar image data with a presentation of a geographic map. |
| US10247822B2 |
Sonar transducer assembly
Sonar systems and associated methods are provided herein for sonar image generation. The sonar system is configured to enable rotation of a transducer array that includes at least two transducer elements. The transducer array may be mounted to a trolling motor capable of being rotated. The transducer elements can be positioned to enable use of interferometry to obtain angle information regarding sonar returns. The angle and range of each sonar return can be used to form images, such as a 2D forward looking image of the underwater environment. A heading detector can be used to obtain a heading of the transducer elements to enable creation of a 2D radar-like image of the underwater environment. Additionally, the heading, angle, and range of the sonar returns can be used to form a 3D image of the underwater environment. |
| US10247821B1 |
Panoramic weather radar display system for aircraft
A weather radar system for an aircraft includes a weather radar system and a processing circuit. The weather radar system is configured to determine weather data, the weather data including an indication of precipitation at a plurality of altitudes, a plurality of azimuth angles, and at a plurality of ranges from the aircraft. The processing circuit is configured to receive the weather data from the weather radar system and generate an overhead display from an overhead perspective based on the weather data. The overhead display visually illustrates the precipitation at a particular distance from the aircraft and at a particular azimuth angle. The processing circuit is configured to generate a face-on on display based on the weather data and cause a display screen to display the overhead display and the face-on display. The face-on display visually illustrates a particular altitude of the precipitation and the azimuth angle of the precipitation. |
| US10247815B1 |
Phased array radar system with specular multipath mitigation
A phased array radar system comprises an array antenna including a plurality of selectively controllable transmit/receive (T/R) modules. One or more computer processors and associated memory devices are provided in communication with the plurality of T/R modules. The control processor is configured to cause the transmission of a first plurality of radio frequency (RF) pulses from a first portion of the array antenna, wherein the first plurality of pulses comprise at least two pulses having distinct center frequencies. A second plurality of RF pulses are transmitted from a second portion of the array antenna, wherein the second plurality of pulses comprise at least two pulses having distinct center frequencies. Received return signals originating from the first and second plurality of transmitted pulses are non-coherently integrated prior to the performance of target detection operations. |
| US10247810B2 |
Radar apparatus and signal generating apparatus
A radar apparatus includes a correlator which, in operation, calculates a correlation value between the digital transmission pulse signals and the digital reception pulse signals, an error estimator which, in operation, estimates, on the basis of the correlation value, an I component error and a Q component error included in the digital reception pulse signals, a correction parameter calculator which, in operation, calculates a correction parameter for correcting the I component error and the Q component error, and an error corrector which, in operation, corrects, on the basis of the correction parameter, the I component error and the Q component error included in at least one of the digital transmission pulse signals and the digital reception pulse signals. |
| US10247803B2 |
Systems and methods for designing magnetic resonance imaging radio frequency pulses that are robust against physiological motion errors
Systems and methods for designing and/or using radio frequency (“RF”) pulses for in-vivo MRI applications, where the RF pulses are robust against errors due to physiological motion of organs during the respiratory cycle. For example, RF pulses are designed based on multi-channel B1+ maps correlated to different positions of the respiratory cycle. |
| US10247802B2 |
Signal inhomogeneity correction and performance evaluation apparatus
Methods for correcting inhomogeneities of magnetic resonance (MR) images and for evaluating the performance of the inhomogeneity correction. The contribution of both transmit field and receiver sensitivity to signal inhomogeneity have been separately considered and quantified. As a result, their negative contributions can be fully corrected. The correction method can greatly enhance the accuracy and precision of MRI techniques and improve the detection sensitivity of pathophysiological changes. The performance of signal inhomogeneity correction methods has been evaluated and confirmed using phantom and in vivo human brain experiments. The present methodologies are readily applicable to correct signal intensity inhomogeneity artifacts produced in different imaging modalities, such as computer tomography, X-ray, ultrasound, and transmission electron microscopy. |
| US10247800B2 |
MRI pulse sequence design
A method uses an artificial neural network (ANN) to automatically produce a magnetic resonance (MR) pulse sequence. A first MR signal corresponding to a first tissue and a second MR signal corresponding to a second tissue are identified. An RF pulse to be applied to the first and second tissues is selected. Based on at least the first MR signal, the second MR signal, and the RF pulse, an updated first MR signal and an updated second MR signal are determined. A difference is computed between the updated first MR signal and the updated second MR signal. The difference is added to an accumulated difference. The RF pulse selecting, updated first and second MR signal determination, difference computation and adding are repeated. The ANN is controlled to use reinforcement learning to select the MR imaging pulse sequence based, at least in part, on the accumulated difference. |
| US10247799B2 |
System and method for sensitivity-enhanced multi-echo chemical exchange saturation transfer (MECEST) magentic resonance imaging
A system and method for creating magnetic resonance images includes performing a first pulse sequence that saturates a selected labile spin species of the subject by applying a radiofrequency (RF) irradiation at a reference frequency and performing a second pulse sequence that saturates a selected labile spin species of the subject by applying an RF irradiation at a labeling frequency. A plurality of echoes having information pertaining to at least one of metabolites and metabolite byproducts is acquired to form a chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) medical imaging data set and the CEST medical imaging data set is reconstructed to form a CEST image of the subject including information about the at least one of metabolites and metabolite byproducts within the subject. |
| US10247791B2 |
System for converting audio signals to wireless audio signals in a medical imaging environment
An improved system for providing audio signals to a patient during medical imaging is disclosed. A converter device is operatively connected to a audio signal transmitter such as a pneumatic audio port commonly used for pneumatic headphones. The converter device includes a connecting member removably inserted into the pneumatic audio port. A microphone receives the pneumatic audio signals and converts these signals to electronic audio signals. The converter device further includes a wireless transmitter that converts the electronic audio signals to wireless signals and transmits the wireless signals to a wireless receiver. The wireless receiver may be located in a headset worn by the patient, which receives the wireless signals and provides the audio content to the patient during imaging. |
| US10247786B2 |
Method for operating a battery system, and battery management system
A method for operating a battery system in a vehicle that includes multiple battery units is described. The method includes classifying an instantaneous aging state of the battery units, first association of the battery units with instantaneous aging classes as a function of their instantaneous aging state, predicting a future aging state of the battery units for a future point in time, second association of the battery units with future aging classes as a function of their future aging state, ascertaining an optimal point in time for replacing battery units based on a cost function, taking into account the instantaneous aging classes and the future aging classes. A battery management system that is configured for carrying out the method is also described. |
| US10247785B2 |
Assembled-battery system, semiconductor circuit, and diagnostic method
An assembled-battery system, a semiconductor circuit, and a diagnostic method enables appropriate self-diagnosis of a measuring unit. An output value (A-B) output from an analog-to-digital converter through power-supply lines, a cell-selection switch, and a level shifter is summed with an output value (B-VSS) obtained by a directly input reference voltage B being output from the analog-to-digital converter. When the summed value is considered equal the reference voltage A—the voltage VSS, it is diagnosed that an abnormality such as a breakdown has not occurred. |
| US10247783B2 |
Sensor system for measuring battery internal state
Systems and methods for sensing internal states of vehicle batteries are described. From this internal state information, various physical characteristics of the battery can be measured, calculated or inferred. A vehicle can include an electric motor, a battery to store electrical energy for the electric motor, and a sensor connected to the battery to sense a battery state, to receive an input signal, and to wirelessly transmit an output signal indicating the battery state. The vehicle can also include control circuitry to receive the output signal and to control the electric motor and the battery. In examples, the battery may have a physical property that changes based on a state of the battery. This physical property may be measured by the sensor. The sensor may be passive and built into the structure of the battery. The sensor can be a magnetic field sensor or a surface wave acoustic sensor. |
| US10247781B2 |
Compact electronics test system having user programmable device interfaces and on-board functions adapted for use in proximity to a radiation field
Various apparatus and methods associated with a compact electronics test system having user programmable device interfaces and on-board functions adapted for use in various environments are provided. Exemplary embodiments can include a variety of apparatuses and methods to realize an advanced field programmable gate array adapted to perform functional tests on digital electronics within an exemplary 48-pin DIP footprint. One aspect of the invention can include a testing device comprised of components to produce a product that is inexpensive and consumable. A small size of an exemplary embodiment of the invention further allows for desirable shielding to be placed around a highly portable and highly programmable and adaptable testing device in order to protect it from external dangers found in harsh environments (e.g., high levels of radiation when operating in space, etc.). |
| US10247780B2 |
Re-programmable self-test
The PRPG provides the test stimulus to the circuit, but it can only generate a finite number of care-bits from any given input seed which limits the maximum coverage that can be achieved. The only way to increase the coverage is to provide additional seed input data to the PRPG. The on-chip one time only programmable eFuse is used to store new PRPG seed data inputs and corresponding MISR output signature data for comparison. An XOR circuit option on the output of the MISR is operable to further compress the output data. |
| US10247775B2 |
Length adjustable arm and MEMS position detection equipment rotation test apparatus
A length adjustable arm and MEMS position detection equipment rotation test apparatus includes an extendible section and first and second rotary bodies provided at one end of a rotation device for variation of a feeding position of a first feeding component so that feeding component is capable of conducting various feeding ways. Further, a worktable is provided thereon with at least one rotation section, which has a surface on which a plurality of operation stations is mounted. As such, through circular change made by the rotation section in respect of the locations of the operation stations, an effect of effectively and efficiently burning or testing can be achieved. Further, the operation stations are provided, on a periphery thereof, with a turning section, and the turning section is operable to turn each of the operation stations in order to effectively conduct tests for various MEMS inertial components. |
| US10247772B2 |
Position calibration method, test circuit board, sample panel and position calibration apparatus
The present invention discloses a position calibration method, a test circuit board, a sample panel and a position calibration apparatus. The position calibration method comprises: Step S1, providing a test circuit board and forming at least one first sample connecting finger; Step S2, making a sample panel comprising second sample connecting fingers corresponding to each first sample connecting finger; Step S3, bringing the test circuit board into contact with the sample panel; and Step S4, detecting whether each first sample connecting finger is electrically connected to a corresponding second sample connecting finger, and when any one of the first sample connecting fingers is detected as in disconnection with the corresponding second sample connecting finger, adjusting a position of the test circuit board and/or the sample panel. |
| US10247771B2 |
Testing device
A testing device for testing an electronic device includes a base, a testing mechanism, a pushing mechanism, and a fastening mechanism. The testing mechanism is rotatably fastened to the base and can be rotated from a first position to a second position. The fastening mechanism is mounted on the base. The pushing mechanism is rotatably mounted on the testing mechanism. When the testing mechanism is rotated from the first position to the second position, the pushing mechanism is rotated and pushes against the testing mechanism. The testing mechanism is connected to an electronic device. The testing mechanism is positioned in the second position via the fastening mechanism. |
| US10247766B2 |
System, method and test layout for detecting leakage current
A test layout, a system, and a method for detecting leakage current are disclosed. The test layout module includes M PN junction diode leakage current test units formed in the FEOL process, parallel-connect with a classical leakage current test unit formed in the metal layer; wherein, P-regions of the PN junction diodes are connected to a high potential, N-regions of the PN junction diodes are connected to a low potential, the junction areas of the PN junction diodes are different each other, each of the PN junction diode leakage current test units is controlled by one switch respectively, the positive integer M is greater than or equal to 1. Through paralleling the PN junction diodes formed in the FEOL process with the classical leakage current test unit in the metal layer, not only the required test layout area utilized to detect the leakage current in the metal layer is reduced, but also the detecting accuracy is further enhanced. |
| US10247764B2 |
Method for controlling devices provided with communication function, and device used in implementing the method
A measurement device that performs a predetermined measurement task together with a plurality of other measurement devices is provided. This measurement device is provided with a sampling phase generator for generating a sampling phase for instructing a timing of sampling, and a communication unit for communicating with at least one of the plurality of other measurement devices. The communication unit transmits the sampling phase generated by the sampling phase generator to at least one of the plurality of other measurement devices. The sampling phase generator is configured to generate a third sampling phase, using an operation that is based on a generated first sampling phase and a second sampling phase received by the communication unit from at least one of the plurality of other measurement devices. |
| US10247760B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring primary voltage from the secondary side of an isolated power supply
An apparatus includes a zero steady state error regulator with a first input terminal operatively coupled to an isolated power supply primary voltage. A PWM (pulse width modulation) generator is operative to generate two identical PWM signals, each having a duty ratio proportional to the primary voltage. The PWM generator has an input terminal operatively coupled to the zero steady state error regulator output terminal, and has a first output terminal operatively coupled to a second input terminal of the zero steady state error regulator to a provide a feedback signal. An optical coupler has an input terminal operatively coupled to a second output terminal of the PWM generator. A scaling circuit has an input terminal operatively coupled to the optical coupler output terminal and has a scaling circuit output terminal to provide a scaled PWM output signal having a duty ratio that is linearly proportional to the primary voltage. |
| US10247759B2 |
Current sensor
A current sensor includes a first current pathway, a first magnetic sensor arranged near the first current pathway, a second magnetic sensor arranged opposite the first magnetic sensor with the first current pathway in between, a second current pathway, a third magnetic sensor arranged near the second current pathway, a fourth magnetic sensor arranged opposite the third magnetic sensor with the second current pathway in between, and a signal processor that generates a signal based on a quantity of the first measured current from output of the first magnetic sensor and output of the second magnetic sensor, and also generates a signal based on a quantity of the second measured current from output of the third magnetic sensor and output of the fourth magnetic sensor. |
| US10247757B2 |
Electricity meter forms module
An improved meter base assembly supports the various meter forms used in modern electrical energy distribution systems. The disclosed assembly combines a customized design for each meter form with a universal base used in a plurality of meter forms to create a meter base assembly that is optimized for best performance while maintaining a reduced part cost. In addition, the concept allows the meter terminals to be attached to the meter base assembly without any hardware, may reduce assembly errors, allows for simplified assembly that may be automated, and speeds up the creation of future meter designs. |
| US10247752B2 |
Apparatus, method, and system for detecting acceleration and motor monitoring
Described is a system which includes: a cable including: a first fiber optic interconnect to provide an input light; and a second fiber optic interconnect to provide an output light; and a first housing coupled to the cable, the first housing including: a first deflection circuit to deflect the input light received from the first fiber optic interconnect in response to a vibration or movement of the first housing; and a second housing coupled to the cable, the second housing including: a light source to generate the input light for transmission to the first deflection circuit via the first fiber optic interconnect; and a photo detector to receive the output light from the first deflection circuit via the second fiber optic interconnect. |
| US10247750B2 |
Online measuring method of particle velocity in multiphase system
The present invention provides an online measuring method of particle (such as bubbles, droplets and solid particles) velocity in multiphase reactor. The method based on an online multiphase measuring instrument includes the following steps: (1) the online multiphase measuring instrument is placed into the multiphase reactor, and then a particle image produced by two or more exposures are obtained; (2) the actual size of individual pixel in the particle image is determined; (3) valid particles are determined in the depth of field; (4) then the centroid coordinates are conversed to the actual length of the coordinates (xt,i, yt,i) and (xt+Δt,i, yt+Δt,i) using the actual size of individual pixel. Thus, the instantaneous velocity of particles can be calculated by V i = ( x t + Δ t , i - x t , i ) 2 + ( y t + Δ t , i - y t , i ) 2 Δ t . The method can realize real-time measurement of the velocity distribution of bubbles, droplets or solid particles in a multiphase reactor, and the measurement accuracy is high. |
| US10247738B2 |
Diagnosing and treating Alzheimers disease
Described herein are methods, systems and compositions for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Also described are methods, systems and compositions to distinguish between Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. In various embodiments levels of PACAP and/or SIRT3 are analyzed for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. |
| US10247735B2 |
Compositions and methods for regulating glucose metabolism
The present disclosure provides compositions for regulating glucose metabolism. The compositions provide for reduced levels of p75NTR and/or reduced binding of p75NTR to a GTPase such as Rab31 or Rab5. The compositions are useful in methods of regulating glucose metabolism, which methods are also provided. |
| US10247734B2 |
Lectins and applications for the detection of pathological state markers
Multimenic lectins having a β-propeller architecture, formed from monomer modules of approximately 30 to 60 amino acids, in which the binding sites to the glycans are situated on a given side of the proteins and the O-terminus and N-terminus ends of the peptide chains on the other side of the proteins, characterized in that they are formed from 4 to 7 monomer modules, a single, or a plurality of, or all of the adjacent modules being linked to one another by the linkers linking the N-terminus end of one module to the C-terminus end of the adjacent module. |
| US10247731B2 |
System for immunotherapy targeting tumor propagation and progression
Finding biologically relevant cancer markers is key to developing an effective treatment. Once specific antigens have been identified that are present on the cell population responsible for propagating tumors, T cells can be genetically altered to target these antigens and then used for personalized T cell therapy. A method to identify and select peptide antigens that effectively associate with and are presented by host HLA surface molecules originating from tumor cells responsible for the persistence and propagation of a cancer has been developed. The system of using these data to produce T cells engineered to express T cell receptors recognizing the peptide antigens is used in the production of a personalized adoptive T cell therapy for cancer that eliminates the cells capable of tumor propagation and cancer progression. The system is especially useful in the production of cancer treatments to achieve complete durable remission of cancers of epithelial origin. |
| US10247730B2 |
Method for determining acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) related biomarkers, a method to monitor the development and treatment of ARDS in a patient
This invention concerns methods for monitoring the development of and for treatment of ARDS in a patient. The method for monitoring the development of ARDS is based on comparing the level or activity of the biomarkers obtained in a sample drawn at a later point of time to the levels or activities of the same biomarkers in a sample drawn at a previous point of time. A favorable change in the level or activity of a certain biomarker represents a regression of the disease (recovery of the patient), and, conversely, an adverse change in the level or activity of a certain biomarker represents a worsening of the disease. If, for example, the level or activity for one or more of the biomarkers monitored discontinues to show a favorable change or starts to show an unfavorable change, the treatment of the patient is enhanced by administering a therapeutically active agent useful in the treatment of ARDS. The invention concerns further a method for simultaneous determination of a multiple of biomarkers in a sample from a patient, wherein said biomarkers are related to ARDS. The level or the activity of the biomarkers is determined. The invention also concerns a diagnostic kit useful for carrying out the method, particularly a kit comprising a chip, such as a microarray suitable for use in biochip technology. |
| US10247726B2 |
Hazardous material detection and isolation distance apparatus and method
Disclosed herein is a first responder hazardous material detection and isolation distance (HMDID) apparatus and method that addresses the disconnect that exists in two current first responder tools: a means for detecting a hazardous material, but also the need for an immediate action plan to secure a dangerous area and prevent harm to individuals, such as first responders present at an emergency scene. The detection apparatus comprises test membranes configured to detect a hazardous material present in the atmosphere, by producing a visual color change when exposed to air contaminated with the hazard. The test membranes are attached to a planar form, such as a flat paper card, and are accompanied by an isolation indicator and action item for isolating an area depending on the level of hazardous material present in the atmosphere. |
| US10247725B2 |
Capture, identification and use of a new biomarker of solid tumors in body fluids
A new sensitive cell biomarker of solid tumors is identified in blood. This biomarker can be used to determine presence of carcinomas, rapid determination of treatment response, early detection of cancer, early detection of cancer recurrence, and may be used to determine therapy. |
| US10247723B2 |
Lighting systems and methods of using lighting systems for in virto potency assay for photofrin
Presently disclosed is a lighting system and methods of using the lighting system for in vitro potency assay for photofrin. The lighting system includes a lamp housing, a first lens, an infrared absorbing filter, an optical filter, and a second lens. The lamp housing includes a lamp and a light-port. In operation, broad spectrum light from the lamp exits the lamp housing by passing through the light-port. The first lens then collimates the broad spectrum light that exits the lamp housing through the light-port. The infrared absorbing filter then passes a first portion of the collimated broad spectrum light to the optical filter and absorbs infrared light of the broad spectrum light. The optical filter then passes a second portion of the collimated broad spectrum light to the second lens. The second lens then disperses the second portion of the collimated light to provide uniform irradiation of a cell culture plate. A method of using the lighting system for studying a photosensitizer is also disclosed. |
| US10247722B2 |
Use of compounds inhibiting apelin / APJ / GP130 signaling for treating cancer
Today, despite current advances in combinatorial therapies such as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, aggressive cancers remain fatal. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) may account for chemotherapy resistance and thus represent a promising therapeutic target. In this context, the present inventors identified essential intracellular pathways favoring the self-renewal and survival of CSCs. More precisely, the present inventors showed that the cytokine co-receptor GP130 acts as a co-receptor for Apelin/APJ signaling and that the interaction of Apelin with APJ/GP130 activates a dual signaling pathway involving the Akt/mTOR and STAT3 transcription factor, thereby promoting CSCs survival and self-renewal. They therefore propose to block these pathways in order to treat patients suffering from tumors containing CSCs, such as glioblastomas. In another aspect, the invention relates to the use of the Apelin expression level for evaluating the survival probability of a subject suffering from glioblastoma. |
| US10247719B2 |
Systems and methods for in vitro and in vivo imaging of cells on a substrate
Disclosed herein are generally to methods and systems that facilitate imaging of cells on a substrate and more particularly to pre-implantation (in vitro) and post-implantation (in vivo) imaging of cell-seeded substrates implanted in target tissues in the context of stem cell therapy. |
| US10247714B2 |
Field odor screening system
A system that screens for particularly identified odors, such as those associated with explosive and other bomb-making materials, weapons and illegal drugs, includes an odor delivery unit with one or more fans that force air across the object being screened, such as a person. The airflow from the odor delivery unit passes over and across the object being screened creating an odor stream that passes through a partition that allows the odor stream to flow freely through it and simultaneously obscures a canine positioned on the other side of the partition from view by the person or object being screened. |
| US10247712B2 |
Printable oxygen sensing composition
An ink composition comprising an oxygen sensitive dye capable of fluorescing in a manner proportional to oxygen content; and a polymer matrix for the dye, the polymer matrix having units with pendant sulphonic acid or phosphonic acid groups or salts or esters of such groups, can be used with an appropriate meter to measure the oxygen content of packages in a non-invasive manner. |
| US10247710B2 |
Backflush methods and devices for chromatography
Certain embodiments described herein are directed to chromatography systems that include a microfluidic device and that implement one or more methods to direct sample to a desired fluid flow path. The methods can be used to backflush a sample to a desired fluid flow path to select certain analytes within a sample. |
| US10247704B2 |
Ultrasonic detection of a change in a surface of a wall
A change in a surface of a wall is detected by transmitting a pulse of input ultrasonic vibrations into a proximal surface of the wall and then receiving ultrasonic vibrations from that proximal surface. The received ultrasonic vibrations are compared with a previously detected pulse of output ultrasonic vibrations that have been received from the proximal surface in order to identify, for example, a time of arrival of a current pulse of output ultrasonic vibrations. The time of arrival of this current pulse of output of ultrasonic vibrations may be used to detect a change in the surface of the wall, such as a change in the thickness of the wall. Other embodiments can detect a change in the roughness profile of the wall using changes in the received ultrasonic vibrations other than arrival time. |
| US10247700B2 |
Embedded noble metal electrodes in microfluidics
A technique relates to manufacturing a nanogap. An oxide layer is disposed on top of a substrate. A release layer is disposed in a pattern on top of the oxide layer. A patterned trench is etched into the oxide layer using the pattern of the release layer. A metal layer is disposed on the release layer and in the patterned trench. A polish removes the release layer, thereby removing both the release layer and a portion of the metal layer having been disposed on top of the release layer, such that the metal layer remaining includes a first metal part and a second metal part connected by a metal nanowire. The metal layer remaining is coplanar with the oxide layer. A nanochannel is formed in the oxide layer in a region of the metal nanowire. The nanogap is formed in the metal nanowire separating the first and second metal parts. |
| US10247693B2 |
Disposable test sensor with improved sampling entrance
A disposable electrochemical test sensor designed to facilitate sampling of fluid samples. It has a fluid chamber having a novel extra wide sampling entrance, but no additional air escape vent. The chamber provides a reservoir from which a sample fluid can be drawn into the chamber through capillary action. The sampling entrance provided can draw fluid into the chamber through any part of the opening, allowing easy targeting the samples with small volume, picking up smeared samples, and added tolerance to users who jam the tip of the sensor into users' finger. The sampling entrance also serves as air escape vent. Such one opening sensor alleviates over-flow issue often encountered in convenient sensors. |
| US10247692B2 |
Reference electrode assembly for electrochemical sensor and electrochemical sensor
A reference electrode assembly for an electrochemical sensor, in particular for a potentiometric sensor, comprising a reference half-cell space having a reference electrode provided therein, the reference half-space comprising a storage space in which a reference electrolyte is provided at any rate in a storage state of the reference electrode assembly, the reference half-cell space further comprising a lock space that is permeable at any rate with respect to the passage of reference electrolyte into an environment of the reference half-cell space, the storage space, in the storage state of the reference electrode assembly, being separated from the lock space with respect to the passage of reference electrolyte, the reference electrode assembly being designed such that a connection permeable for the passage of reference electrolyte from the storage space to the lock space can be created between the storage space and the lock space in order to transfer the reference electrode assembly from the storage state to an operative state. |
| US10247691B1 |
Systems and methods for contactless assessment of reinforced concrete
In one embodiment, non-contact assessment of reinforced concrete is performed by positioning a reference electrode in close proximity to a surface of the concrete without contacting the electrode to the surface, vibrating the electrode with a vibration generator, and measuring the electrical potential difference between the electrode and the concrete surface, the potential difference being indicative of the condition of a portion of a reinforcement member positioned below the concrete surface at the location of the electrode. |
| US10247690B2 |
Device for analysis of mixtures of at least two gases
Device for analyzing a mixture of n gases, comprising a microfluidic channel (2) extending between a first end and a second end, at least n−1 suspended elements in the microfluidic channel (2), said n−1 elements (S1, S2 . . . Sn−1) succeeding one another from the first end of the microfluidic channel (2) to the second end of the microfluidic channel (2), heating means capable of heating a part at least of the gaseous mixture surrounding each suspended element (S1, S2 . . . Sn−1) to a given temperature different to those to which are heated the gaseous mixtures surrounding the other suspended elements (S1, S2 . . . Sn−1), means of measuring the temperature or the variation in temperature of the suspended elements (S1, S2 . . . Sn−1) and a control and measurement system (UC) connected to the heating means and to the measuring means. |
| US10247687B2 |
Soil moisture probing at variable depth
A soil moisture sensor and a soil moisture sensing system are provided. The soil moisture sensor includes a double groove helical structure having grooves and formed from an insulator. The soil moisture sensor further includes at least a first electrode and a second electrode formed from one or more metals deposited at at least two different locations on the grooves. The soil moisture sensor also includes a processor for processing a soil moisture measurement signal based on a conductivity between the electrodes. The soil moisture sensor additionally includes a wireless transmitter for transmitting the soil moisture measurement signal to a remote location. |
| US10247686B2 |
Compression heat-generation detector and method therefor
A compression heat-generation detector and a method therefor include one set or multi-sets of detecting units. The detecting unit includes a vertical compression device, a vertical compensation device and a synchronization device for a core center temperature sensor. The vertical compression device and the vertical compensation device are respectively fixed in an upper frame. A pressure sensor is mounted between a middle support of the rubber sample and a supporting plate of the vertical compensation device via a first transition column. The synchronization device is mounted between the pressing plate of the vertical compression device and the supporting plate of the vertical compensation device via a second transition column and a cushion block. The transition column penetrates through a hole of the middle support without affecting accuracy of the pressure sensor in a compression stress test with respect to the rubber sample. |
| US10247683B2 |
Material measurement techniques using multiple X-ray micro-beams
An x-ray interrogation system having one or more x-ray beams interrogates an object (i.e., object). A structured source producing an array of x-ray micro-sources can be imaged onto the object. Each of the one or more beams may have a high resolution, such as for example a diameter of about 15 microns or less, at the surface of the object. The illuminating one or more micro-beams can be high resolution in one dimension and/or two dimensions, and can be directed at the object to illuminate the object. The incident beam that illuminates the object has an energy that is greater than the x-ray fluorescence energy. |
| US10247675B2 |
Molecular enhanced based surface enhanced raman spectroscopy to detect low concentration of monoethanolamine
A system and method for estimating a concentration of monoethanolamine (MEA) in a fluid. A substrate for supporting a sample of the fluid during testing includes a carbon nanotube mat layer, a silver nanowire layer disposed on the carbon nanotube mat layer, and a chemical enhancer layer disposed on the silver nanowire layer. A sample of the fluid is placed on the substrate, and the fluid sample is radiated with electromagnetic radiation at a selected energy level. A detector measures a Raman spectrum emitted from the sample in response to the electromagnetic radiation. A processor estimates the concentration of MEA in the sample from the Raman spectrum and adds a corrosion inhibitor to the fluid in an amount based on the estimated concentration of MEA to reduce the concentration of MEA in the fluid. |
| US10247670B2 |
Reflective surface treatments for optical sensors
An electronic device includes one or more light emitters for emitting light toward an object and one or more light detectors for collecting light exiting the object. A reflective coating, surface, or surface finish can be applied adjacent to the area to which light is emitted and/or through which light exits in order to increase the light collected by the light detector. The reflective coating can be oriented so as to reflect light back into the object. |
| US10247665B2 |
Device for determining a concentration of a chemical substance
The invention relates to a device tier determining a concentration of a chemical substance dissolved in a liquid, which chemical substance absorbs light (10) of an absorption wavelength, wherein the device comprises: at least one flow-through chamber (2) having at least one inlet opening (4), at least one outlet opening (6), and at least one peripheral wall (24); at least one laser (8) for emitting light (10) of the absorption wavelength; and at least one detector (18) for detecting the emitted light (10); wherein the laser (8) and the detector (18) are arranged in such a way that the light (10) emitted by the laser (8) is conducted through the flow-through chamber (2) along at least two different paths before said light hits the detector (18), and wherein the device has two lasers (8) which emit light of different wavelengths. The invention further relates to a method for producing a flow-through chamber for such a device. |
| US10247664B2 |
Quantificational testing method for semen liquefaction ability
This invention publicly announces a quantificational testing method of semen liquefaction ability. By following the steps of sample preparation, image collection, image quantificational analysis and curve analysis to analyze the quantificational testing of semen liquefaction ability; indirectly indicate the semen liquefaction ability by observing the color depth change in the sperm sampled cover black area; to analyze the quantification of semen liquefaction by observing the level of change in grey level value versus time; thus, to efficiently, subjectively and standardly test the semen liquefaction ability and avoid human errors. |
| US10247659B2 |
Device for characterizing an interface of a structure and corresponding device
The present invention relates to a device (1) for characterizing an interface of a structure (6), said structure (6) comprising a solid first material and a second material, the materials being separated by said interface. The device (1) comprises: means (2) for generating a first mechanical wave; means (2) for forming Brillouin oscillations; means (10) for detecting time variation of the Brillouin oscillations; means (12) for responding to the time variation of the Brillouin oscillations to identify reflection of said first mechanical wave by said interface or transmission through said interface of a second mechanical wave interfering with the first mechanical wave; and means (13) for determining the variation in amplitude of the Brillouin oscillations before and after reflection or transmission by said interface. The invention also relates to a corresponding method of characterization. |
| US10247649B2 |
Spine testing device as well as measuring method
A spine testing device having bearing supports located at a horizontal distance from one another in order to support opposite ends of an arrow, a measuring unit for determining a spine value of the arrow and a display unit for displaying the spine value. The bearing supports are equipped with a weighing device in order to measure a force emanating from the arrow. A stop is located in an area between the weighing devices at such a height that the arrow can be brought by a specified distance from a horizontal starting position into a bending position by exerting a force at a point of application of the same located between the ends of the arrow, in which bending position the application portion of the arrow lies in contact with the stop. The measuring unit includes an evaluation device having means for establishing a bending force acting on the arrow. The evaluation device includes a calculation formula with at least one reference value, so that the spine value of the arrow can be calculated by means of the calculation formula. |
| US10247648B2 |
High precision quantification of sub-visible particles
The method is for quantification of sub-visible particles. A filter membrane is provided that has a plurality of pores defined therethrough. The filter membrane is in operational engagement with a vacuum chamber. The pores are sealed with a sealant. A sample droplet, containing a liquid and sub-visible particles, is applied onto the filter membrane. The liquid dissolves the sealant in pores disposed directly below the sample droplet. The liquid flows through the pores in which the sealant has been dissolved and the sub-visible particles remain on top of the filter membrane. The particles are enumerated in an electron microscopy. |
| US10247646B2 |
Self-contained sample processing cartridge with preloaded reagent
A self-contained biological sample processing cartridge includes top and bottom portions that close together to form a sealed chamber therein. The chamber is configured to enable one of one or more biological sample staining procedures appropriate for a biological sample. The top portion includes a chamber top section and valve control elements. The bottom portion includes a chamber bottom section and fluidic valves. One of the fluid valves evacuates the contents of the chamber. One of the valve control elements couples to a respective fluidic valve to control fluid flow for the chamber. The cartridge includes a preloaded reagent component to supply the chamber with the reagent component appropriate for a particular biological sample staining procedure. A user desiring to conduct a particular biological sample staining procedure may select a particular cartridge that is preloaded with the preloaded reagent fluidic valves component appropriate for the particular biological sample staining procedure. |
| US10247645B2 |
Air sample tracking system and method
A system for tracking one or more subjects for collecting airborne contaminants. The system includes one or more subjects configured to collect air contaminants. Each of the one or more subjects includes an identification tag encoded with identification information identifying the each subject. The system further includes an identification reader configured to decode the identification information encoded within the identification tag of a scanned one of the one or more identification tags. A computer receives and stores the decoded identification information in a record in a database. The computer may also receive and stored an identification code for a user who scanned the scanned identification tag in the record in the database. Additional records in the database are created each time the identification tag of one of the one or more subjects is scanned. The one or more subjects are thereby tracked as they collect airborne contaminants and are incubated. |
| US10247644B2 |
Air sampling system for a low-temperature space that enables removal of ice build-up within a sampling conduit
An air sampling system for a low-temperature space is disclosed. The air sampling system includes an air sampling pipe for passing sampling air to an air sampling device, and a sampling conduit extending from the low-temperature space to outside the low-temperature space. The sampling conduit is connected to the sampling pipe. The sampling conduit is selectively accessible from outside the low-temperature space for removal of ice build-up within the sampling conduit. Also disclosed is a kit for an air sampling system. Also disclosed is a method, computing system, air-sampling device and air monitoring system that evaluates an air sampling network. |
| US10247643B1 |
System, method, and apparatus for determining air emissions during pig receiver depressurization
System, method, and apparatus embodiments characterize potential air emissions during the pig receiver depressurization. The mass flow rate, pressure, and temperature of exhaust gas released from the pig receiver are ascertained using a mass flow meter, pressure gauge, and temperature gauge, respectively. A flow meter and control valve regulate flow of exhaust gas through a sampling line and into a grab sample collection train. The grab sample collection train includes grab sample containers (e.g., piston cylinders, double-ended cylinders, and evacuated canisters) that collect exhaust gas samples over a range of pressures. The exhaust gas samples are used to determine the concentrations of gas components in the exhaust gas over the range of pressures. These concentrations are interpolated and/or extrapolated to provide a concentration versus pressure curve for each identified component in the exhaust gas. The ascertained mass flow rate and gas concentration curve are used to characterize potential mass emissions of each gas component during pig receiver depressurization. |
| US10247641B2 |
Mesh registration system and method for diagnosing tread wear
An automated tread registration system includes a sensing system configured to provide at least one surface model of a first object. The surface model of the first object has at least one pattern with at least one groove and at least one protrusion. The automated tread registration system also includes a user system executing processing software reading data corresponding to the at least one surface model of the first object. The surface model corresponds to a current condition of the first object. The processing software executed by the user system may analyze the at least one surface model of the first object and provide at least one indicative metric based on the analysis of the surface model. The indicative metric may be camber wear, toe wear, heel toe wear, overinflation, underinflation, and/or the like. |
| US10247639B2 |
Pressure indicator for automotive radiator, senses a predefined pressure and flags off a permanent trigger
The invention, a pressure indicator assembly is thread fitted onto a Radiator; the pressure indicator is designed to conduct 2 unique functions of sensing the pre-decided maximum sustainable pressure and communicating the same. Once the pre-decided maximum sustainable pressure of the Radiator is reached, a spring gets actuated and allows air (or steam) to flow inside the pressure indicator assembly. The air flow pushes an arrow head component; the top portion of the arrow head component shoots through a rubber retainer center hole into a visible transparent tube of the assembly. The retainer rubber and the transparent tube only allow partial passage of the arrow head component and entrap its base stem portion permanently, hence permanently flagging off the arrow head component. The flagged arrow head component is visible through the transparent tube, indicating the maximum pressure has been reached. |
| US10247637B2 |
Differential pressure measurement with film chamber
Leak detection device for measuring the differential pressure between a test chamber (10) and a reference chamber, which can be separated from the test chamber (10) gas-tight by a first check valve (24), wherein a differential pressure sensor (34) is connected to the reference chamber and to the test chamber (10) in order to measure the differential pressure between the internal pressure of the reference chamber and the internal pressure of the test chamber (10), characterized in that the test chamber (10) and the reference chamber each have at least one wall region formed from a flexible film, wherein the ratio of the test chamber volume (20) to the surface area of the flexible wall region of the test chamber (10) adjacent to the test chamber volume (20) and the ratio of the reference chamber volume to the surface area of the flexible wall region of the reference chamber adjacent to the reference chamber volume are substantially equal. |
| US10247636B2 |
Sheet metal processing machines having a chip suctioning device and methods for detecting a malfunction in the chip suctioning device
Sheet metal processing machines having a chip suctioning device and a control device are provided. The chip suctioning device has a chip space connected to a die orifice of a punching die for collecting chips, wherein the chip space is provided with a chip flap and a extraction line, and the extraction line comprises at least one sieve, a vacuum generator, e.g., an extraction fan, connected to the extraction line for generating a vacuum in the chip suction device, and a vacuum sensor, connected to the extraction line between the downstream last sieve and the vacuum generator, being configured to supply signals to the control device. |
| US10247635B2 |
Online chlorine analyzer
An embodiment provides an apparatus, including: a cartridge including a base and a lid; at least one fluid line located between the base and the lid of the cartridge; at least one heating element located either on the base or the lid and aligned in intimate contact with the at least one fluid line; at least one heat sensing element in intimate contact with the at least one fluid line, where the at least one heat sensing element is spaced downstream from the at least one heating element; a supply of power to the cartridge; and a processor in electrical communication with the cartridge that executes a program of instructions to: operate the at least one heating element to produce heating of the at least one fluid line at a first position; and operate the at least one heat sensing element to detect the heat of a fluid within the at least one fluid line at a position downstream of the first position. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US10247634B2 |
Disconnection detection circuit of pressure detection device
A disconnection detection circuit includes: a pull-up resistor to which the detection signal is fed and which connects a signal line connected to the wiring cable to a power supply or a pull-down resistor which connects the signal line to a GND; and a voltage clip circuit 105 which includes a high-voltage clip circuit which is connected between the signal line and the power supply and which clips the voltage of the signal line to the maximum specified voltage and a low-voltage clip circuit which is connected between the signal line and the GND and which clips the voltage of the signal line to the minimum specified voltage. |
| US10247632B2 |
Oil filled gage reference side protection
A pressure sensor can include a housing having a sense side cavity formed on a first side of the housing; a sense side diaphragm attached to the first side and over the sense side cavity, a sense die assembly placed in the cavity and attached to the housing; a reference side cavity formed in the housing, a reference side diaphragm attached to a second side of the housing and over the reference side cavity, and pin(s) electrically connected to the sense die assembly and extending outside the housing from the second side. The cavities are filled with oil. Manufacturing the pressure sensor can include mounting the sense die assembly onto the housing, attaching the sense side diaphragm to the first side of the housing, filling the cavities with oil, and attaching the reference side diaphragm on the second side of the housing and over the reference side cavity. |
| US10247630B2 |
Semiconductor device, mechanical quantity measuring device, and semiconductor device fabricating method
A semiconductor device includes a metal body; a bonding layer placed on the metal body; and a semiconductor chip placed on the bonding layer. The bonding layer includes a filler-containing first layer formed between the metal body and the semiconductor chip and a second layer bonded to the first layer and the semiconductor chip. The second layer has a thermal expansion coefficient higher than that of the first layer. |
| US10247629B2 |
Stacked or unstacked MEMS pressure sensor with through-hole cap and plurality of chip capacitors
A MEMS pressure sensing element and integrated circuit (IC) are mounted on a circuit board. The sensing element and IC can be either stacked or unstacked. Bond wires connect the IC to the circuit board. Other bond wires connect the sensing element to the IC. A cap covers the sensing element and IC. The cap is attached to the circuit board and has a small hole in it, through which viscous gel is inserted. The gel encapsulates the MEMS sensing element, IC and bond wires in the cap. The hole also allows pressurized fluid to enter the cap and exert force on the MEMS pressure sensing element after encapsulation in the gel. Chip capacitors can also be mounted on the circuit board, outside the cap. Electrical signals are generated, which represent pressure applied to the MEMS pressure sensing element through the hole and gel. |
| US10247626B2 |
Motion recognition method and apparatus
A apparatus for recognizing a motion of an object is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a camera configured to photograph images of the object having the motion, a plurality of pressure and position sensors configured to be installed on a floor and to measure a floor contact position, a floor contact area and a floor contact pressure of the object and a motion analyzer configured to analyze the motion of the object by combining two or more among the images, floor contact position, floor contact area and floor contact pressure of the object. |
| US10247618B2 |
Active grounded thermocouple and method of operation
An active temperature measurement system includes at least one grounded thermocouple and a processor in communication with the at least one grounded thermocouple. The processor is configured to receive measurements from the at least one grounded thermocouple. The at least one grounded thermocouple is biased by an isolated voltage when the processor is receiving a measurement from the at least one grounded thermocouple. |
| US10247609B2 |
Spectrometry device, image forming apparatus, and spectrometry method
A spectrometry device includes a spectroscope, an extraneous light sensor, and a light intensity controller. The spectroscope includes a light source that emits illumination light to a medium and a wavelength-selective interference filter that performs spectroscopy on light incident from the medium. The extraneous light sensor detects the intensity of extraneous light which is incident on the medium. The light intensity controller controls the intensity of the illumination light emitted from the light source such that the light intensity ratio of the illumination light and the extraneous light is equal to a first value. |
| US10247601B2 |
Method for monitoring radiation
A method for monitoring radiation by an optical sensor which generates a signal, such as a shut-off signal, which influences the radiation when subjected to radiation. A sensor with dark current pulses is used, which are assessed as a functional capability signal of the sensor. |
| US10247598B2 |
Method for displaying the weighing result of a scale
The invention relates to a method for displaying the weighing result of a scale, in particular a shop scale, which comprises an identification, on a mobile display device. In said method, the mobile display device establishes a secure wireless communication link to the scale and displays the identification of the scale once the link has been successfully established. |
| US10247597B2 |
Fuel pump assembly
A fuel pump assembly includes an attachment section and a pump housing. The attachment section includes an upper telescoping section having an outer portion and a support rod that extends into the outer portion for telescoping movement with respect thereto. The support rod further extends downward from the outer portion. The pump housing is supported to a lower end of the support rod of the attachment section. The upper telescoping section of the support rod is configured such that the pump housing is movable between a first position and a second position, such that in the first position the pump housing is retained by the upper telescoping structure a first distance away from the attachment section and in the second position the pump housing is located a second distance away from the attachment section. The first distance is greater than the second distance. |
| US10247595B2 |
Soap dispensing device having soap replenishing notification function
A soap dispensing device having a soap replenishing notification function comprises a liquid soap container, a soap dispensing body, a soap dispenser connected with the liquid soap container and a control box. The liquid soap container is internally provided with a liquid level detection unit capable of emitting a liquid soap replenishing signal. The soap dispensing body is provided on a countertop and connected with the liquid soap container, and has a liquid soap replenishing light display area, an induction area capable of emitting an induction signal and a soap dispensing head. The control box is used for receiving the liquid soap replenishing signal and the induction signal, wherein the liquid soap replenishing light display area is formed on the soap dispensing body according to the liquid soap replenishing signal, and a liquid soap is supplied by the soap dispensing head according to the induction signal. |
| US10247591B2 |
Experimental device for debris flow simulation
A new experimental device for debris flow simulation, including a material supply device, a flow channel, a stacking groove, a pole, a first high-speed camera, a second high-speed camera, a fixing frame, and a sliding rail. The material supply device is used to release the debris flow simulation material to the flow channel, to realize the start of the debris flow simulation. The stacking groove is used for the accumulation of the debris flow. The pole is used to support the stacking groove and adjust the slope of the stacking groove. The fixing frame is used to fix the first high-speed camera. The second high-speed camera can monitor the movement of the debris flow. The invention can flexibly simulate the movement characteristics of various debris flow and obtain the test data, so as to provide data support for the subsequent study. |
| US10247590B2 |
Balancing valve for adjusting the distribution of fluids in multiple pipes
A balancing valve for adjusting the flow rate of a fluid flowing inside a pipe from upstream to downstream in a longitudinal direction of flow. The balancing valve includes: a check valve and a tubular element simulating a Venturi tube, said valve and element being coaxially connected, respectively, from upstream to downstream in the longitudinal direction of flow of the fluid; a device for detecting the difference in pressure which occurs inside the valve; a valve for adjusting the flow rate of the fluid which flows inside the pipe; wherein: the detection device is arranged between the inside of a first upstream chamber of the check valve and the inside of a central cylindrical portion of the tubular element. |
| US10247589B2 |
Fluid level monitor
A fluid level monitor incorporated into a fuel tank. A sensor module is adapted to being mounted to an exterior of the tank. A tube extends from the module within the tank and secures a housing at an interior location. The housing has a gear assembly, a float arm pivotally secures to the gear assembly and, in response to changes in a fluid level of the tank, causes the gear assembly to rotate a drive rod extending within the tube. A coupler forms a portion of the sensor module and is secured to an upper end of the drive rod. Rotation of the coupler relative to a PCB integrated into the sensor module produces an inductive signal indicative of the amount of displacement of the float and, consequently, the level of the fluid within the tank. |
| US10247583B2 |
Fiber-optic sensor and method for the production and use thereof
A fiber optic sensor may be provided comprising an optical waveguide having at least one first core and a cladding surrounding the first core, wherein the first core extends substantially over the entire length of the optical waveguide and at least one Bragg grating is introduced into the first core, wherein the Bragg grating has an elongated cross section, wherein the short semi-axis is smaller than the diameter of the first core and the center of gravity of the cross section of the at least one Bragg grating lies on the axis of symmetry of the optical waveguide. A method may be provided for determining torsion with such a sensor. A method for the production of such a sensor may be provided. |
| US10247582B2 |
Optical encoding device including an encoding disc having diffracting patterns
An optical encoding device includes a light source module, an encoding disc, and a photodetector. The light source module emits a source beam. The encoding disc is disposed on a passing path of the source beam. The encoding disc has first diffracting patterns. The first diffracting patterns include a plurality of sets of first diffracting patterns arranged along a radial direction of the encoding disc. Each set of the first diffracting patterns includes a plurality kinds of first diffracting patterns having different pattern extending directions and different pattern periods. When the encoding disc is rotating, the first diffracting patterns in each set of first diffracting patterns enter the passing path of the source beam in sequence, to cause a diffraction and form diffracted beams having different angles. The photodetector receives the diffracted beams having the different angles. |
| US10247581B2 |
Interferometric optical fibre sensor system and method of interrogation
The invention relates to a method of interrogating an interferometric optical fiber sensor system including a laser source configured to generate interrogation light and a sensor array with at least a first reflector and a second reflector. The method includes continuously and repeatedly frequency sweeping the interrogation light from the laser source within a sweep bandwidth (SWB) over a sweep duration (tsw) with a substantially constant sweep rate r=SBW/tsw to produce a swept interrogation light signal, launching the swept interrogation light signal into the sensor array, detecting reflected signals being returned from the sensor array by each of the reflectors, respectively, wherein detection includes mixing a return light signal from the sensor array with a local oscillator signal onto an optical receiver to produce an electrical radio frequency signal, demultiplexing the electrical radio frequency signal into a first signal channel and a second signal channel, corresponding to the first and second reflector, respectively, demodulating each of the first and second signal channel into a first phase response from the first reflector and a second phase response from the second reflector, and subtracting the first phase response from the second phase response to obtain a sensor phase signal. |
| US10247579B2 |
Linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) calibration mechanism for precision rigging with vibration and accuracy tracking robustness
Embodiments generally relate to assembly and methods for precisely rigging a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT). For example, the probe rod assembly of a dual tandem LVDT may comprise two moveable cores, a probe fitting, and a probe rod. Generally, the first moveable core may be configured to achieve electrical zero with its respective transformer. Without adjusting the position of the probe rod with respect to the one or more coils of wire, the second moveable core may be configured to achieve electrical zero with its respective transformer. This may ensure that both moveable cores simultaneously achieve electrical zero in the null position. Typically, the probe fitting may be configured to fit at a first end of the probe rod projecting outward from the outer housing. The disclosed assembly and methods may be used to precisely rig dual tandem LVDTs, single channel LVDTs, and dual parallel LVDTs. |
| US10247576B2 |
Method and system for verifying measured data
The disclosure relates to a method for verifying measured data from at least one sensor system. The measured data directly or indirectly describe values of physical quantities The values of indirectly described physical quantities are calculated from the measured data and/or from known physical and/or mathematical relationships. At least three values describing an identical quantity are subjected in pairs to a mutual comparison. In addition, at least two of the at least three values describing an identical quantity are determined independently of one another by at least one sensor system. A third value describing an identical quantity is determined by a basic sensor system. The disclosure further relates to a corresponding system and a use of the system. |
| US10247575B2 |
Accelerometer system and method
A vehicle accelerometer system comprises an accelerometer for installation in a vehicle, a processor for selection of accelerometer output data items for inclusion in an accelerometer output data set representative of measurements by the accelerometer at a plurality of different vehicle locations, each accelerometer output data item being representative of a respective measurement by the accelerometer, and a storage device for storing the accelerometer output data set, wherein the processor is configured to process the accelerometer output data set to determine an orientation output representative of the orientation of the accelerometer with respect to the vehicle. |
| US10247572B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing route based on surveillance zones
A method of providing a route based on surveillance zones includes: generating a total surveillance zone by displaying surveillance zones of surveillance devices on a map; if a first user requests a route, generating a route on the map based on the total surveillance zone; if an event occurs while the first user travels along the route, acquiring a surveillance image from at least one of the surveillance devices corresponding to a location at which the event occurs; and providing the surveillance image to a second user. |
| US10247571B2 |
Reminder notification system and reminder notification method
A reminder notification system includes: a position acquisition unit configured to acquire a position of a user; a target position setting unit configured to set a target position; and a reminder notification unit configured to provide a reminder about a proximity area close to the target position set in the target position setting unit when the position of the user is in the proximity area, wherein the target position setting unit sets the target position associated with a predetermined category, and wherein the reminder notification unit provides the reminder when the position of the user arrives at at least one proximity area of a plurality of the target positions belonging to the predetermined category. |
| US10247568B2 |
Style sheet driven virtual camera for defining a navigation presentation
Some embodiments of the invention provide methods for generating navigation presentations that display a device navigating a route on a map. The method uses a virtual camera that, based on detected changes to the navigation context, dynamically modifies how it captures map portions to produce navigation scenes in the presentation. The method of some embodiments identifies attribute sets describing different navigation contexts and uses these attribute sets to identify virtual camera operating styles. The method uses an identified style to specify the virtual camera's positional attributes, which define the map portions identified for rendering to produce navigation scenes over time. During the navigation presentation, each time the navigation context changes, the identified attribute set may change. This, in turn, may cause the method to select a new virtual camera operating style. When the style changes, the method modifies the way the virtual camera captures the map portion to render. |
| US10247565B2 |
Traffic risk avoidance for a route selection system
Systems and methods relate to, inter alia, calculating a number of expected collisions in an area over a time period. The systems and methods may further determine a number of observed collisions in the area over the time period. The systems and methods may further calculate a risk index for the area based upon a comparison between the number of expected collisions and the number of observed collisions. The systems and methods may further select a travel route for a vehicle based upon the risk index. |
| US10247550B2 |
Mobile devices and methods for determining orientation information thereof
A mobile device including an acceleration sensor, a magneto sensor, a gyroscope sensor, and a processor is provided. The acceleration sensor, the magneto sensor, and the gyroscope sensor generate acceleration data, magnetic field data, and angular velocity data, respectively. The processor determines a pitch angle and a roll angle according to the acceleration data, determines a yaw angle according to the magnetic field data, and determines a quaternion according to the pitch angle, the roll angle, and the yaw angle. Also, the processor determines orientation information of the mobile device according to the quaternion and the angular velocity data, and adjusts the orientation information according to the acceleration data and the magnetic field data. |
| US10247541B2 |
System and method of estimating the three-dimensional size of an object for packaging or storing the object
The invention discloses a system and method for estimating a three-dimensional (3D) packaging size of an object. The method has a self calibration function to correct the scale in the measurement environment so as to reduce errors caused by human operations. The system comprises an image capture unit for capturing images of the measurement environment and objects; a scale correction unit for performing the calibration using a reference object of a known size; and an object size estimation unit for detecting the position of an object to be estimated in the image data received from the image capture unit and estimating the 3D size of the object according to the calibrated scale. |
| US10247540B1 |
Determining the thickness of a submicron carbon coating on a carbon-coated metal base plate using Raman spectroscopy
A method of determining a thickness of a submicron carbon of a carbon-coated metal base plate that includes conducting Raman spectroscopy at a target location of the carbon-coated metal base plate to obtain a Raman shift spectrum for the target location. The Raman shift spectrum obtained at the target location is then converted into a calculated thickness of the submicron carbon coating at the target location. The conversion of the Raman shift spectrum into the calculated thickness of the submicron carbon coating at the target location may involve referencing a linear correlation that has been established over the defined wavenumber range between (1) an integrated intensity of a Raman carbon signal obtained from each of a series of reference plates that includes a submicron carbon coating having a verified thickness and (2) the verified thicknesses of the submicron carbon coatings of the series of reference plates. |
| US10247536B2 |
Differential compensator to reduce uncertainty in determination of movement of a structural member
A differential compensator reduces uncertainty in determination of movement of a structural member and includes: a first probe line to attach to the structural member and to provide a first combination of displacement of the structural member and a first expansion of the first probe line in response to movement of the structural member and expansion of the first probe line; and a second probe line having a coefficient of thermal expansion that is different than that of the first probe line, the second probe line to attach to the structural member at a position on the structural member proximate to a point of attachment of the first probe line to the structural member and to provide a second combination of displacement of the structural member and second expansion of the second probe line in response to movement of the structural member and expansion of the second probe line. |
| US10247526B2 |
Explosive initiation safety and handling system for explosive ordnance disposal robots
A system with a spool base frame having an initiator, an interrupter, control electronics, and a proximity sensor connected thereto, wherein the spool base frame is configured to hold a shock tube spooling mechanism, the interrupter is configured to allow installation and spooling of a spool of shock tube disposed on the shock tube spooling mechanism, the interrupter is configured to cut spooled shock tube from the spool of shock tube, the control electronics are configured to send a signal directing the interrupter to cut the spooled shock tube from the spool, the interrupter is configured to physically redirect and splice the cut shock tube to a second shock tube connected to the initiator, and the interrupter is configured to discharge the cut shock tube after the shock tube is fired and spent. |
| US10247525B2 |
Electrical discharge system and method for neutralizing explosive devices and electronics
Disclosed is an apparatus that includes an electric power source that powers a Marx generator that is electrically coupled to a cathode emitter that is configured to discharge electrical potential into the earth. The apparatus also includes a load resistor that is coupled between the output of the Marx generator and either a relative ground or the input to the Marx generator. |
| US10247523B2 |
Composite laminates incorporating vertically aligned carbon nanotubes for ballistic and low velocity impact protection
Laminated composite structures, or laminates, may utilize vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs), also termed a nanotube forest, as a layer/ply within a fiber/matrix laminate used as a protection system to mitigate and eliminate penetrating and blunt force damage posterior as a result of impacts with an unknown velocity on the laminated structure. Moreover, a composite may incorporate vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) for ballistic and low velocity impact protection. |
| US10247522B2 |
Composite ballistic resistant laminate
An unconsolidated impact and penetration resistant laminate comprises a plurality of cross-plied sheets, each cross-plied sheet further comprising (i) first and second layers of fibrous or non-fibrous ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and (ii) first and second layers of thermoplastic adhesive, each adhesive layer having a basis weight of no greater than 5 gsm, wherein (a) the layers of polyethylene and thermoplastic adhesive alternate within the sheet, (b) at least 50 percent of the polyethylene layers are arranged such that the orientation of the first polyethylene layer is offset with respect to the orientation of the second polyethylene layer, and (c) the plurality of cross-plied sheets form a stack that, when subjected to compaction at a pressure of 255 bar and a temperature of 132 degrees C., will not suffer a pressure loss greater than 8 bar within the first two minutes as measured by Test Method B. |
| US10247519B2 |
Methods and apparatus for controlling line of sight drift
Described embodiments provide methods and apparatus for adjusting a line of sight to a target to compensate for drift. Embodiments can include an optical assembly configured and arranged for viewing an area including the target, a display window for viewing a line of sight to the target, one or more manual operator controls connected to a digital processor configured to adjust offsets to the line of sight, an automatic operating mode configured to automate adjusting the offsets to correct for drift bias of the line of sight to the target, and an operator control switch configured to switch the system between the automatic mode and a manual mode. |
| US10247516B1 |
Range finder device with correction reticle
The disclosed subject matter relates to a range finder device with integrated aiming elements. These aiming elements can include, for instance, a view of a target or field of view including the target and a correction reticle. The range finder device can determine a distance to the target, which can be presented along with the aiming elements in an integrated fashion to, e.g., facilitate more accurate, more convenient, or improved aiming of a projectile device. |
| US10247511B2 |
Projectile launcher
Projectile launchers have an elongated cylindrical body defining a projectile bore having a bore axis, the body having an open forward exit end, the body having a gas inlet facility at an opposed rear end, a movable latch element connected to the body and having a latch portion movable between a retention position in which the latch portion protrudes into the bore and a release position, and the latch element being biased to the retention position such that a projectile in the bore rearward of the latch is retained by the latch portion except until a gas pressure above a selected amount builds up behind the projectile to overcome the biasing of the latch and launch the projectile. The latch element may be clear of the bore when in the release position. |
| US10247509B1 |
Fire starting flares launcher
A large format launcher that is a modified rifle wherein the lower receiver is combined with an upper receiver into a unified receiver and modified to fit large-format flares. It is a single-shot, non-automatic reloading device, slam fire flare launcher device. The gas tube from an unmodified rifle is removed from the upper receiver disabling the bolt carrier group from automatic operation. The gas port is plugged and welded closed which prevents an operational gas tube from being installed on the launcher. The outer tube is pinned with a non-removable hardened pin. A single blank cartridge is fed into the launcher via a ten-round modified magazine. Manual cocking of the charging handle is required between firings. The ported gas barrel/plug, manufactured specifically for this launcher, employs an external hardened end with offset hole with welded plug enabling acceptance of a blank round only. The plug prevents any projectile from passing through the ported gas barrel and prevents the firing of live ammunition. With only gas from the blank passing through the barrels, the flare is launched and propelled approximately 300 feet and lights the flare with appropriate delay to function. |
| US10247508B2 |
Air distribution device for a dual barrel pneumatic gun
An air distribution device for a dual barrel air gun is disclosed that routes air or other gases exhausted from an air gun tank to a select one of the air gun barrels which allows the user to fire a follow up shot with less delay. More specifically, the device of the present invention allows the user to control the routing of air to either barrel of the air gun through the use of a stem selector, a first transfer port and a second transfer port. |
| US10247495B2 |
Fluid heat exchange apparatus with recirculating structure
A fluid heat exchange apparatus including a casing, and a heat-dissipating device is provided. The casing includes a chamber, an inlet, and an outlet. The chamber includes a first channel including a first entrance and a first exit and a second channel including a second entrance and a second exit. The cross-sectional area of the first channel decreases from the first entrance to the first exit and the cross-sectional area of the second channel decreases from the second entrance to the second exit. The heat-dissipating device is located between the first exit and the outlet. A first fluid flows from the inlet and flows through the first channel and the heat-dissipating device and then flows to the outlet. Part of the first fluid flowing through the heat-dissipating device absorbs heat and forms bubbles moving to the second channel and then forms a second fluid converging into the first channel. |
| US10247493B2 |
Device for controlled heat transfer to and from a component
A component coupling system for controllable heat transfer from or to a component which is heated by an external and/or internal heat source and is disposed adjacent to a cooler. The component coupling system includes a carrier plate, on which least one first means for spacing is disposed such that a component disposed on the means for spacing and the carrier plate, together with the means for spacing, form a first cavity. If needed, this cavity can be evacuated, filled with a fluid medium, or have a fluid medium flow through it, whereby the heat transfer or the heat dissipation from the component can be controlled in a simple manner. |
| US10247489B2 |
Structural dynamic heat sink
A heat sink structure is provided having fins mechanically altered dynamically to change and optimize the heat sink's performance based on certain environmental conditions. Specifically, the shape of fins of the heat sink structure is dynamically altered in response to environmental conditions that indicate the need for increased thermal performance by spreading the fins through a mechanical device dynamically, or by collapsing the fins to reduce pressure drop across a region when increased thermal performance is not needed. |
| US10247486B2 |
CTE-matched heat pipe
Heat sinks having a mounting surface with a coefficient of thermal expansion matching that of silicon are disclosed. Heat pipes having layered composite or integral composite low coefficient of expansion heat sinks are disclosed that can be mounted directly to silicon semiconductor devices. |
| US10247483B2 |
Evaporative cooling device
A evaporative cooling device is described having a pair of heat conducting plates arranged in spaced, generally parallel relationship with spacing elements separating the plates from one another and defining primary and secondary flow channels between the plates. Inlet ducts are connected to the primary channels and outlet ducts connect from the primary and secondary channels. A water distribution system is also provided to supply water to the secondary channels such that a primary air flow through the primary channels may be cooled by heat conduction along the plates to cause evaporation of the water into a secondary air flow through the secondary channels. |
| US10247475B2 |
Nail lamp
A nail lamp is configured to cure light-curable nail product on a user's nail. The lamp includes a base and a support with discrete light sources that each may emit with the same or different light wavelength profiles, and each may emit continuously or with the same or different pulsing functions. The lamp also includes source reflectors and a ring reflector. The different wavelength profiles are configured to, in combination, cure a light-curable nail product. The pulsing function is used to cure the nail product more efficiently. The source reflectors and ring reflector are used to target specific areas of the nail. A space is disposed between the base and the support and is sized to accommodate therein the nails of an appendage of a user so as to expose the user's nails to light from the discrete light sources. |
| US10247474B2 |
Microwave drying of ceramic honeycomb logs using a customizable cover
Microwave drying of ceramic honeycomb logs using a customizable cover that can take the form of a flexible wrap or a rigid cover is disclosed. The cover can be in the form of a wrap disposed directly in contact with the leading edge of the log surface. The cover can also be a rigid cover disposed adjacent but not in contact with the leading edge of the log surface. At least a portion of the trailing edge of the log can remain uncovered either by having windows in the wrap or by the rigid cover only covering the leading edge of the log surface. The customizable cover can be configured to compensate for log shape deformities as well as or in addition to the adverse effect on log shape cause by the drying differential created by passing a log through a microwave drying station leading-edge first. |
| US10247473B2 |
Methods and apparatus for processing a substrate to remove moisture and/or residue
Embodiments of methods and apparatus for processing a substrate are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for processing a substrate includes a non-vacuum enclosure; at least one opening in the non-vacuum enclosure to insert a substrate into or remove a substrate from the non-vacuum enclosure; a movable substrate carrier, including a plurality of substrate holders, disposed within the non-vacuum enclosure to linearly move substrates disposed on the plurality of substrate holders; a heater to heat an interior of the non-vacuum enclosure; a gas supply to supply a gas to the interior of the non-vacuum enclosure; and a vent to exhaust the gas from the interior of the non-vacuum enclosure. |
| US10247469B2 |
Refrigerator
Disclosed is a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a cabinet having a first storage compartment, an inner door pivotably rotatably installed to the cabinet, the inner door having a second storage compartment, an outer door configured to open or close the second storage compartment, and a drawer installed in the second storage compartment, the drawer being movable forward and rearward. The drawer includes a basket part (120) configured to receive food therein and a frame unit (140) configured to allow the basket part (120) to be separably seated thereon. |
| US10247467B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator may include a cabinet disposed at a storage compartment, a door hinged to the cabinet and configured to open and close at least a portion of the storage compartment, the door including an outer door defining a front appearance of the door, a door dike defining a rear appearance of the door, and an inner space located between the outer door and the door dike, a moving frame configured to move vertically with respect to the door dike, the moving frame including a supporter configured to extend from the door dike to the inner space, and a rail embedded in the inner space configured to support the supporter. |
| US10247466B2 |
Freezing and refrigerating device and defrosting control method thereof
A freezing and refrigerating device comprises a box body and a door body. An air supply path supplying cooling air flow to a storage compartment, an air return path enabling the air flow from the storage compartment to pass, a cooling chamber and a defrosting air return path are defined in the box body, wherein the cooling chamber is provided with an air feeding opening part and an air return opening part and contains an evaporator, a blower and a defrosting heater, and the defrosting air return path is communicated with the air feeding opening part and the air return opening part of the cooling chamber. The air supply path and the defrosting air return path are provided with an air supply door and a defrosting air return door respectively. The present invention further provides a defrosting control method of the freezing and refrigerating device. |
| US10247465B2 |
Cooling device comprising a thawing compartment and the control method thereof
The present invention relates to a cooling device comprising a body; a thawing body that is disposed in the body, wherein the frozen foods are placed; a heater that heats the thawing compartment and a sensor that provides the measurement of the humidity of the ambient air of the thawing compartment. |
| US10247459B2 |
Refrigeration cycle apparatus
A refrigeration cycle apparatus includes a refrigerant circuit including a compressor, a condenser (outdoor heat exchanger), an expansion valve, and an evaporator (indoor heat exchanger), a fan configured to blow air to the condenser, a fan configured to blow air to the evaporator, and a controller configured to control at least one of a frequency of the compressor, an opening degree of the expansion valve, a rotation speed of the fan, and a rotation speed of the fan, such that the refrigerant sucked into the compressor has a quality of 1.0 or greater. The refrigerant circuit is configured for use with a refrigerant mixture inclusive of 30 wt % to 50% wt ethylene-based hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant. |
| US10247457B2 |
Non-condensable gas purge system for refrigeration circuit
A non-condensable gas purge system is configured to be used in a chiller system that uses a low pressure refrigerant in a loop refrigeration circuit. The non-condensable gas purge system includes a purge tank and a purge heat exchanger coil arranged inside the purge tank. The purge tank has a tank inlet for receiving the low pressure refrigerant from a condenser of the refrigeration circuit, a tank outlet for returning the low pressure refrigerant to an evaporator of the refrigeration circuit, and a purge outlet for purging non-condensable gas from the purge tank to the ambient atmosphere. The purge heat exchanger coil is fluidly connected to the loop refrigeration circuit such that the low pressure refrigerant contained in the loop of the chiller system can pass through the purge heat exchanger coil. Refrigerant in the purge tank is condensed by the heat exchanger coil while non-condensable gases remain gaseous. |
| US10247455B2 |
Condenser receiver drier refrigerant filter
A receiver drier comprises a housing and a filter unit. The housing includes a moisture absorbing chamber and a longitudinally spaced filter chamber. The filter chamber includes an inlet formed adjacent a first portion of an inner circumferential surface thereof and an outlet formed adjacent a second portion of the inner circumferential surface. The filter unit is received within the filter chamber and includes a main body defining a first filter compartment therein. A first surface of the first filter compartment is defined by a first screen element fluidly coupling an interior of the first filter compartment to an exterior thereof. The flow of the refrigerant enters and exits the first filter compartment while flowing in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the receiver drier. |
| US10247454B2 |
Refrigerating apparatus
A refrigerating apparatus includes a high-temperature side circuit and a low-temperature side circuit connected to each other via a cascade condenser, a low-temperature side second flow control valve that turns a refrigerant, passing through a liquid pipe connecting between a cooling unit and other circuit parts in a low-temperature side circuit b, into a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and an expansion tank connected to the suction side of a low-temperature circuit compressor via a tank electromagnetic valve. |
| US10247453B2 |
Compressor module
A compressor module (1) comprises: a floor member (3); a gas cooler (24) mounted on the floor member (3); a compressor skid (10) disposed on a side of the gas cooler (24) opposite to where the floor member (3) is located, the compressor skid (10) being connected to the gas cooler (24); and a leg portion (15) connected to the compressor skid (10) and fixed to the floor member (3) that supports the compressor skid (10), the leg portion (15) providing a gap to dispose the gas cooler (24) between the floor member (3) and the compressor skid (10). |
| US10247450B2 |
Device and method for converting thermal energy
A device and a method for converting low temperature thermal energy into high temperature thermal energy using mechanical energy with a rotor for a working medium passing through a closed cycle. The rotor has a compressor unit with compression channels and an expansion unit with expansion channels, and has heat exchangers for exchanging heat between the working medium and a heat exchange medium. The device has an impeller which can be rotated relative to the rotor. The impeller is arranged between supply channels which conduct the flow of the working medium in the heat pump and at least one rotor discharge channel which discharges the flow of the working medium in the heat pump. The supply channels have outlet sections which extend up to a point directly upstream of an inlet opening of the impeller such that flows of the working medium are conducted out of the supply channels. |
| US10247448B2 |
Method of producing refrigeration with R1233zd
A method of producing refrigeration includes compressing a refrigerant composition including R1233zd in a compressor having a magnetic bearing, within a chiller system. |
| US10247446B2 |
Control system for modulating water heater
A control system is provided for a modulated heating system including a plurality of modulating water heaters, which may be modulating boilers. A deadband control scheme provides for reduced cycling of the modulating heater when total system heat demand falls between the maximum output of one heater and the sum of the maximum output of that one point and the minimum firing point of the next subsequent heater. Condensation of flue gas products is prevented by monitoring flue exhaust temperature for each heater and controlling the modulation of each heater to maintain a minimum heater output sufficiently high to prevent condensation of flue gas products from that heater. Rapid reaction to changes in system heat demand is provided by sensing changes in flow rate in a primary loop of the system and anticipating resulting changes in temperature thus allowing for change in heater output prior to the time the change in flow rate has fully impacted system temperature. |
| US10247445B2 |
Heater bundle for adaptive control
A heater system includes a heater bundle and a power supply device. The heater bundle includes a plurality of heater assemblies and a plurality of power conductors. The heater assembly includes a plurality of heater units, each heater unit defining at least one independently controlled heating zone. The power conductors are electrically connected to each of the independently controlled heating zones in each of the heater units. The power supply device is configured to modulate power to each of the independently controlled heater zones of the heater units through the power conductors. |
| US10247444B2 |
Furnace and method for heating air
A furnace for heating air includes a primary heat exchanger and a secondary heat exchanger to transfer heat from a flow of hot gases, the secondary heat exchanger being arranged downstream from the primary heat exchanger. A collection/discharge box fluidly couples an outlet of the primary heat exchanger and an inlet of the secondary heat exchanger. An enclosure houses the primary heat exchanger, the collection/discharge box, and the secondary heat exchanger, and includes an air inlet and an air outlet. A main air flow path extends through the enclosure from the air inlet to the air outlet, and the primary and secondary heat exchangers are arranged along the main air flow path. An air bypass channel is arranged to be fluidly parallel to a section of the main air flow path, and the collection/discharge box is arranged along the bypass channel. |
| US10247439B2 |
Control mechanism for an air conditioning system
A control mechanism for controlling an air conditioning system includes an optical sensor and an energy controller. The air conditioning system includes a solar power module, an outdoor unit, a fan, and a storage device containing a first liquid. The optical sensor detects sunlight received by the solar power module. The energy controller controls the outdoor unit based on luminance and temperature of the sunlight, an operation state of the fan, an operation state of the outdoor unit, a temperature of the first liquid, a flow speed of a second liquid in a conduit between the storage device and the fan, and temperatures of the second liquid at different portions of the conduit. |
| US10247436B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling operations of a heating and cooling system
Techniques for controlling a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system at a site are disclosed. A disclosed method includes obtaining or calculating a net load at the site and obtaining a temperature of the site during a time period. The method further includes comparing the net load to a threshold load value and comparing the temperature to a lower threshold temperature or an upper threshold temperature. The method also includes determining one or more operation parameter values for the HVAC system based at least in part on the comparison of the net load to the threshold load value and the comparison of the temperature to the lower threshold temperature or the upper threshold temperature, and setting the HVAC system based on the one or more operation parameter values. |
| US10247434B2 |
HVAC system and an HVAC controller configured to operate the HVAC system based on air pollutant data and user comfort
According to some embodiments, a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system comprises a circulation fan, one or more humidity sensors operable to sense humidity data associated with an enclosed space, and a controller. In operation, the controller receives the humidity data from the one or more humidity sensors and receives air quality data associated with at least one air pollutant. The controller determines, based on the air quality data, that a threshold associated with the air pollutant has been exceeded and determines, based on the humidity data, that a threshold associated with humidity has not been exceeded. The controller operates the circulation fan in response to determining that the threshold associated with the air pollutant has been exceeded and the threshold associated with humidity has not been exceeded, the circulation fan operated for filtration purposes while not servicing any conditioning demand. |
| US10247431B2 |
Fan coil apparatus including a humidification unit and a humidification unit
A fan coil apparatus includes an air flow path, a humidification unit, and a treatment applicator. The air flow path extends from a heating zone to a fan coil air outlet, and includes a humidification section. The humidification unit includes a humidification unit water droplet outlet and an air permeable water retaining member. The air permeable water retaining member and the humidification unit water droplet outlet are provided in the humidification section and the air permeable water retaining member is positioned downstream from the humidification unit water droplet outlet. The treatment applicator provides a disinfecting agent upstream from an air outlet of the humidification section. |
| US10247426B2 |
Boiler control comprising analog up/down timer circuit for generating variable threshold signal
An apparatus comprises a sensor circuit configured to detect activation of at least one circulator arranged to circulate liquid from a boiler through at least one circulation loop and back to the boiler. An analog up/down timer circuit has an input coupled to an output of the sensor circuit and generates a variable threshold signal that varies as a function of an activation time of the at least one circulator. A burner control circuit receives the variable threshold signal from the analog up/down timer circuit and generates an ignition control signal based at least in part on comparison of a temperature sensor signal of the boiler with the variable threshold signal. An ignition driver receives the ignition control signal from the burner control circuit and generates an ignition signal for a burner configured to burn fuel to heat the liquid in the boiler based at least in part on the ignition control signal. |
| US10247423B2 |
Economical and versatile system for fixing a hob in a worktop
A cooking hob retention system includes a support element having a major surface and a pocket disposed therealong and defining a strip having a first opening and a second opening on vertically opposite sides thereof. The system also includes a fastening member including an engagement end and a free end resiliently compressible toward the engagement end about a central fold disposed therebetween. The engagement end is coupled with the support element by a deformable portion opposite the central fold received within the first opening and a protruding element extending toward the deformable portion and received within the second opening. The free end includes a body defining an acute angle with respect to the engagement end. A tab extends from the body generally parallel to the engagement end, and a first countering element extends from the body beyond the tab to an end thereof. |
| US10247421B2 |
Tool and method for decoupling cross-fire tube assemblies in gas turbine engines
A tool for decoupling a telescoping tube from a first liner of a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The tool includes a rod partially positioned in a telescoping tube passage. The rod includes a first portion having a non-circular cross-section and a threaded second portion positioned in a second combustion chamber. A plug couples to the rod and engages a first side surface of the telescoping tube. A base defining a base passage extending therethrough is positioned in a second combustion chamber. The base passage includes a first portion having a non-circular cross-section. The first portion of the rod is at least partially positioned in the first portion of the base passage. A handle threadingly couples to the rod. Rotating the handle in a first direction moves the handle along the rod toward the first combustor to decouple the telescoping tube from the first liner. |
| US10247419B2 |
Combustor liner panel with a multiple of heat transfer ribs for a gas turbine engine combustor
A liner panel for use in a combustor of a gas turbine engine, including a multiple of heat transfer ribs located in at least one discrete area of the liner panel. A wall assembly within a gas turbine engine including a support shell, a liner panel mounted to the support shell via a multiple of studs and a multiple of heat transfer ribs located in at least one discrete area on a cold side of the liner panel, each of the multiple of heat transfer ribs account for the multiple of studs. |
| US10247418B2 |
Flame ignition and control system
A flame ignition and control system includes at least one gas burner, which is connected to a gas source via a flame control system, and a safety valve controlled by a flame sensor consisting of a thermocouple. The safety valve has an open state, in which the source supplies gas to the burner, and a closed state, in which gas flow is obstructed, the switching from the open state to the closed state and vice versa being controlled by the electric signal generated by the thermocouple. An igniter device is provided, which consists of an ignition electrode and a power supply unit thereof. Furthermore, at least the operation of the igniter device is controlled according to the current strength of the electric signal generated by the thermocouple. |
| US10247415B2 |
Combustion controlling device and combustion system
Safety and stability of combustion are improved by a combustion controlling device that controls the operation of 2 or more burners and stops all the operation of the burners when combustion states of the burners satisfy a predetermined condition, and the predetermined condition includes a first shutoff condition for stopping the operation of the burners at the time of an initial startup to ignite a desired burner from a state in which none of the burners is ignited, and a second shutoff condition for stopping the operation of the burners in a normal operating state after the desired burner has been normally ignited by the initial startup. |
| US10247412B2 |
Automatic ash discharge device for a burner
An automatic ash discharge device for a burner has a furnace base, a duct set, and a discharge set. The furnace base has a combustion chamber, a mounting opening, a discharge mouth, two guiding faces, and multiple inlet holes. The combustion chamber is formed in the furnace base. The guiding faces are formed aslant in the furnace base. The inlet holes are formed through the guiding faces. The duct set is connected to the furnace base and has two casings and a blower. The casings are mounted on the furnace base respectively corresponding to the guiding faces and communicate with the combustion chamber. The blower communicates with the casings. The discharge set is connected to the furnace base and has a receiving tank connected to the furnace base and communicating with the combustion chamber, and a discharge shaft rotatably mounted in the receiving tank. |
| US10247408B2 |
Humid air turbine power, water extraction, and refrigeration cycle
Various embodiments relate to combined heat and power (CHP) systems. A CHP system can include a turbine system, a turbocharger system, and a refrigeration system. The refrigeration system can receive combustion products from the turbine system and compressed air from the turbocharger system. The refrigeration system can cool the combustion products and the compressed air to generate a cooled combustion product mixture that is provided to the turbine system. |
| US10247407B2 |
Wirelessly-charged self-lit lamp finial
Briefly described, light generating, light emitting, or light and sound producing finials are disclosed for both utility and decorative purposes. These finials may be used for dim lighting of a room such as to replace night lamps or for romantic occasions, and can be changed based on seasonal traditions or holiday customs. In some embodiments the finials have their own batteries and LED lights and in other embodiments the finials' rechargeable batteries may be charged by the light emitting from the lamp on which the finials are mounted. |
| US10247406B2 |
Lighting fixture having an integrated communications system
In one aspect, a lighting fixture includes a pole having a first section and a second section. The second section of the pole includes a radio frequency (RF) transparent material. The lighting fixture also includes a light housing coupled to the first section of the pole and a light source in the light housing. The lighting fixture further includes an antenna assembly in the second section of the pole. The antenna assembly is configured to wirelessly communicate with a user equipment device (UE). The lighting fixture also includes a communications backhaul interface coupled to the antenna assembly. |
| US10247404B1 |
Pin light assembly
A pin light assembly with specialized elastomeric grommet and cylindrical pin attached to the light lens for installation into the substrate of a spa wall that overcomes minimum outer diameter light limitations found in the prior art elastomeric grommet installation systems wherein the elastomeric grommet portion of the pin light assembly receives the LED light thereby eliminating the need for a tube to receive the LED and have a separate elastomeric grommet installed outside of the light lens tube. Optional features include retaining features such as a barb around the cylindrical pin or a retaining flange with undercut at the termination of the cylindrical pin. |
| US10247397B2 |
Rotatable retrofit trim lighting device
A retrofit trim lighting device is provided. In example embodiments, the retrofit trim lighting device comprises a bracket comprising an opening; at least one torsion spring secured to the bracket and configured to mount the retrofit trim lighting device within a recessed housing; a retrofit housing comprising at least one light engine; and an engagement element. The engagement element is secured to the retrofit housing through the opening of the bracket such that, when so secured, the retrofit housing and the bracket are rotatable relative to one another. |
| US10247396B2 |
Rotatable optical assemblies for high mast luminaire
There are provided systems and methods for use with high mast luminaires. For example, there is provided a lighting system that can include a mounting portion and an optical assembly attached to the mounting portion via a rotatable platform. The light system can further include a stop disposed inside the mounting portion, and the stop can be configured to permit a rotation of the optical assembly and to limit the rotation to an angle greater than 360 degrees. |
| US10247394B2 |
Housing for securing a recessed fixture
The current invention relates to a housing (10) for securing a recessed fixture in a support (20), the housing (10) comprising at least one spring (12) resting on a portion of the side wall (10a) when loaded, and extending outwardly from the side wall (10a) when released so as to secure the housing (10) in the support (20); the housing (10) further comprises at least one releasable retention member keeping the spring (12) loaded over a given length of insertion of the housing (10) into the support (20). The housing (10) can notably be used in a recessed light fixture. |
| US10247393B2 |
Removable LED module with tilting adjustment mechanism
A recessed lighting unit includes a light engine and provides angular adjustment of the light emanating from the lighting unit. In one arrangement, the lighting unit includes a heat sink and a module frame that slidingly interact to provide rotation of the light engine in one degree of freedom, for example rotation about a horizontal axis. A rotation mechanism may also be provided for rotating the light engine in a second degree of freedom, for example rotation about the axis of a cylindrical recessed can in which the light engine is disposed. The lighting unit may be configured for use in new construction, or for retrofit applications. |
| US10247389B2 |
Light fixture assembly with pivoting reflector assembly and lens assembly
A light fixture assembly includes a housing having an interior surface, a ballast mounted on the interior surface of the housing, a first reflector releasably coupled to the interior surface of the housing, the ballast being substantially enclosed between the housing and the first reflector when the first reflector is in a first, closed position and being exposed when the first reflector is in a second, open position spaced from at least a portion of the interior surface, a lens releasably coupled to the housing, the first reflector being substantially enclosed between the lens and the housing when the lens is in a first, closed position and substantially exposed when the lens is in a second, open position. This construction provides relatively easy and quick access to the ballast for replacement and from below the fixture if it is mounted in or on the ceiling. |
| US10247388B2 |
Portable light
A portable work light is disclosed having a front cover having a LED light source; a protective housing for the LED light source; a back housing for enclosing the portable light and the various components thereof; a power source and electrical components for operating the portable light; a ratcheting stand and handle; and a plurality of bumpers for protecting various contact points of the portable light. |
| US10247386B2 |
System for visual signalling
A light-signaling system includes three lighting modules, each including two projectors fixed together. Each projector includes an elongated cylindrical lens defined by a horizontal generatrix direction, and a linear light source parallel to the generatrix direction, for emitting a luminous flux. The cylindrical lens is capable of generating and projecting a main flat light beam within a predefined azimuthal angular sector that is greater than 60°. The two projectors of the same lighting module are arranged such that the generatrix direction of the first projector and the generatrix direction of the second projector form an angle of 120° the bisectrix of which defines the main direction of the lighting module. |
| US10247378B2 |
Metal PCB, headlight module having metal PCB applied thereto, and method for assembling headlight module
Provided are a metal PCB, a headlight module having the metal PCB applied thereto, and a method for assembling the headlight module, wherein the metal PCB has a base made of a metal material and configured as a thin plate, or the base has a predetermined thickness and is bent in a desired direction through a bending groove formed on the rear surface thereof, and the base has a plurality of chip mounting portions integrated thereon such that one or more LED chips are mounted thereon, the chip mounting portions being spaced at a predetermined interval and having at least two parts of incision surfaces formed on one side of the base such that the chip mounting portions are inclined and installed to have a predetermined angle with regard to the base. |
| US10247376B2 |
Light source module and vehicle headlamp using the same
A light source module and a vehicle headlamp is provided. The light source module and the vehicle headlamp include a circuit board and first and second light emitting modules that are disposed on the circuit board. The first and second light emitting modules are divided by a partition wall. Each of the first and second light emitting modules includes a blue LED light source and a phosphor that is disposed on the blue LED light source. The phosphor is configured to be activated by the blue LED light source to emit first light and includes a phosphor film that is disposed on an exterior of the first light emitting module and the phosphor film is configured to emit a second light. |
| US10247373B1 |
Luminaire mounting system
A lighting system can include a luminaire and a bracket for mounting the luminaire to a structure during installation. The bracket can be configured for mounting to the structure independent of the luminaire. Once the bracket is mounted, the luminaire can be hung or suspended from the bracket to facilitate wiring the luminaire. Once the hung luminaire is wired, the installer can readily move the luminaire into a long-term operating position with respect to the bracket and fasten the luminaire to the bracket with a clip or other appropriate fastener. |
| US10247367B1 |
Lighting system
A lighting system includes an optic that has at least two reflective surfaces that are oriented such that they face each other. Further, the lighting system includes a plurality of light emitting diodes that are disposed adjacent one end of the optic. Furthermore, the lighting system includes a lightguide that is disposed adjacent an opposite end of the optic such that an edge of the lightguide is retained within and disposed between the at least two reflective surfaces of the optic. The at least two reflective surfaces of the optic reflect and guide light emitted by the plurality of light emitting diodes to the edge of the lightguide. The light then couples into the lightguide through the edge and is guided towards an opposing edge of the light guide. The light exits the lightguide through the opposing edge and/or major surfaces of the lightguide. |
| US10247357B2 |
Automatic air backup system
A system and method for maintaining overpressure in a logging unit or other pressurized space through interruptions is disclosed. A backup air supply comprising tanks mounted to a frame is operatively connected to the ambient environment of the logging unit through a valve assembly which also connects a conventional pressure setup (e.g., pumps and filters from the external environment). The valve assembly comprises two auto valves, a shuttle valve, and a pressure sensor that allow the logging unit to switch from the conventional external air supply to the tanks when the pressure detected from the conventional air supply falls below a predetermined level. The valve assembly is independently housed and may be mounted or detached from the frame housing the backup tanks. |
| US10247354B2 |
Corner shield
A corner shield for protecting corners of objects for placement on a substantially horizontal surface comprising a body and an elongated protector. The body comprises inner and outer support sections with a slot therebetween for receiving an elongated protector. The slot has an outer section and an inner section with the outer section angled inwardly from bottom to top by a sloped angle of at least 2 degrees from perpendicular relative to the surface. |
| US10247350B2 |
Sealed container, thermal insulator, and gas adsorption device
A sealed container (1) includes at least an outer container (2) and a gas adsorption device (4) being provided in a sealed space (3) within the outer container (2) and being capable of adsorbing a gas. The gas adsorption device (4) includes at least a copper ion-exchanged ZSM-5 type zeolite and a primary material having a lower gas barrier property than the outer container (2) does. |
| US10247343B2 |
Fluid coupling
A fluid coupling includes a socket and a plug and is used to connect two fluid hoses, whereby the plug has a neck that can be inserted into the socket with an annular groove for engaging with a locking element. The locking element includes a push-button that can be activated in a radial manner from the exterior of the socket and from which two flexible fork arms protrude that engage into a hub of the socket and have diagonal ramp surfaces on the two opposing inner faces of the fork arms, whereby the diagonal ramp surfaces engage around the neck in the area of the annular groove around a part of the circumference of the neck. The annular groove is delimited by two opposing and diverging diagonal surfaces. |
| US10247338B2 |
Dockside ship-to-ship transfer of LNG
Systems and methods for dockside regasification of liquefied natural gas (LNG) are described herein. The methods include providing LNG from a LNG carrier to a regasification vessel. The LNG may be regasified on the regasification vessel. The regasified natural gas may be discharged with a high pressure arm to a dock and delivered onshore. The regasification vessel may be moored to the dock. The LNG carrier may be moored to the regasification vessel or the dock. |
| US10247337B2 |
Hose end construction and fitting
An assembly includes a hose having at least a first bead ring disposed proximate a distal end of the hose, and a tapered fitting defining an axial centerline and distal end of the assembly. The tapered fitting further defines a first outer diameter relative the axial centerline, and a second outer diameter relative the axial centerline. The first outer diameter is greater than the second outer diameter, and the second outer diameter is disposed nearer the distal end. The tapered fitting further defines a hollow channel therethrough which is disposed around the axial centerline. The first bead ring is disposed adjacent the second outer diameter of the tapered fitting and remote from the first outer diameter of the tapered fitting. The large bore hose is sealingly secured upon the tapered fitting by interference fit. |
| US10247336B2 |
Conduit gripping device having retaining structure for conduit fitting
The disclosure presents exemplary embodiments of a cartridge nut concept for conduit fittings. The cartridge nut concept may include the feature of loosely retaining one or more conduit gripping devices with a fitting component such as a male or female threaded nut. The cartridge nut concept may be realized using one or more geometry or shape features or characteristics of one or more conduit gripping devices. Still further, the cartridge nut concept may be realized in combination with a ferrule cartridge concept. |
| US10247335B2 |
Elastomeric expansion joint pre-failure sensor and method
An expansion joint including a hollow elastomeric body having coupling flanges at each open end configured to connect to flanges of a pipe system. The hollow elastomeric body is made of a material including an elastomer and fibers. A stretchable sensor is located within the material of the hollow elastomeric body. The sensor is configured to provide a varying electrical characteristic when the sensor is stretched or contracts. An analysis circuit is connected to the sensor, the analysis circuit configured to receive the varying electrical characteristic and to emit a signal corresponding to a level of the electrical characteristic received by the analysis circuit. |
| US10247332B2 |
Pipe coupling having arcuate snap couplers with cylindrical base body
A coupler for coupling together the end portions of two pipes having radial end flanges includes a single piece cylindrical base body having a receiving opening therethrough to receive and surround end portions of the pipes to be coupled and bridging over a gap between the pipes to be coupled. At least one arcuate coupling member having opposite end flanges extending axially inwardly from the ends of the arcuate coupling member with the length between opposite end flanges being greater than the length of the cylindrical base body is connectable to the cylindrical base body in a coupling position to prevent the passage of the radial pipe flanges to thereby secure the end portions of the pipes to be connected in the cylindrical base body in a connected condition. The arcuate coupling members can be pivotally connected to the cylindrical base body so can move between coupling and uncoupling positions. |
| US10247331B1 |
Multi-functional electrical service and device supporting assembly
An apparatus for supporting an underground main service entrance device and at least one secondary service entrance device and a kit for assembling such apparatus are disclosed. A preferred embodiment of such an apparatus comprises metal posts, metal bars, a first enclosure, at least one second enclosure, and at least one enclosure-connecting conduit. The bars of the embodiment are preferably coupled to the posts horizontally. The preferred first enclosure is configured to contain a main service entrance device. The preferred second enclosure is configured to contain a secondary service entrance device. The first enclosure is preferably attached to two of the bars near the top while the second enclosure is preferably attached to at least one of the bars below the first enclosure. The first and second enclosures are connected by the enclosure-connecting conduit. The components of the embodiment are preferably removably coupled and may be reconfigured when needed. |
| US10247330B2 |
Adjustable pipe support assembly
A pipe support assembly for use in the pipeline transmission industry. More particularly, an adjustable pipe support assembly for use in bracing and securing a section of pipe, while being able to removably detach a strap of said support assembly from said pipe, and thus, monitor and inspect an outer coating of said pipe for corrosion and/or any other possible damage to said pipe. More particularly still, a pipe support assembly having a plurality of pipe chocks with vibration regulators for use in preventing and controlling any vibratory movements of said pipe. |
| US10247324B2 |
Thermostatic flow control device and method of use
A flow control device is used to regulate fluid flow from an upstream supply source to a downstream destination within a plant. At least portions of the flow control device are fabricated from one or more thermostatic materials selected based on the specific thermostatic properties thereof. The basic arrangement of the flow control device includes at least one housing with at least one thermostatic beam and at least one wall fixed thereto to define a void interior area with opposed open ends, and a center plug member with at least one opening in at least one wall thereof arranged within the interior area for temperature dependent fluid flow therethrough. |
| US10247320B2 |
Pressure regulating valve
A pressure regulating valve including an actuator and a valve body. Communicating passages are arranged between a chamber of the valve body and a chamber of the actuator. Further, a pressure tapping tube is disposed in the chamber of the valve body. One end of the pressure tapping tube is connected to the communicating passage and the other end of the pressure tapping tube is suspended. By adopting this pressure tapping structure in the pressure regulating valve, the performance of the pressure regulating valve in a flow accuracy range is improved. |
| US10247314B2 |
Plug valve and methods
A plug valve including a valve body defining a cavity and a pair of fluid passages intersecting the cavity, the cavity defining a tapered interior surface of the valve body, a plug extending within the cavity, the plug defining an exterior surface and a fluid passage adapted to be substantially aligned with the fluid passages of the valve body, and an insert extending within the cavity and circumferentially about at least a portion of the plug, the insert defining a pair of fluid passages substantially aligned with the fluid passages of the valve body, respectively. In several exemplary embodiments, the plug valve is used in oil or gas operations, such as, for example, the fracturing or gravel packing of a subterranean wellbore, with the plug valve being used to control the flow of fracturing and/or gravel-packing fluids. Exemplary embodiments of methods associated with the plug valve are also described. |
| US10247300B2 |
Method and device for controlling automatic transmission
A method of controlling an automatic transmission mounted on a vehicle having an automatic engine stop mechanism for automatically stopping and restarting an engine, is provided. The transmission includes a piston having first and second surfaces, friction plates, engaging and disengaging hydraulic pressure chambers, a hydraulic pressure control valve for supplying/discharging hydraulic pressure to/from the chambers, first and second oil paths communicating the control valve with the chambers, a pressure reducing valve for preventing pressure of the disengaging chamber from exceeding a given set pressure, a hydraulic pressure supply device for supplying pressure to the control valve in the automatic stop state, and a mechanical oil pump for supplying pressure to the control valve while the engine is driving, the second surface having a larger pressure receiving area than the first surface. The method includes adjusting the set pressure to be lower in the automatic stop state than while driving. |
| US10247295B1 |
Transfer case oil pump assembly
An exemplary assembly includes a housing including a flange extending from a perimeter of the housing, a cover including an edge tab extending from a perimeter of the cover, a gear set positioned between the housing and the cover, an alignment member positioned between the flange and the edge tab, the alignment member adjacent to an exterior surface of the gear set, and a ring at least partially encircling the housing, the ring including an anti-rotation member and a securing tab. The edge tab and the alignment member are enclosed by the anti-rotation member to maintain a radial position of the gear set. |
| US10247294B2 |
Drive unit with an electromotive power unit and a transmission
A drive unit includes a housing having first and second chambers. An electromotive drive is disposed in the first chamber and including a hollow rotor shaft. A transmission is disposed in the second chamber and includes an output shaft extending through the rotor shaft such that a gap is formed. The transmission further includes a gearing arrangement that operably couples the output shaft to the rotor shaft and reduces a speed ratio between the rotor shaft and the output shaft so that the output shaft rotates slower than the rotor shaft when operating. The gearing arrangement includes a first element fixed to the rotor shaft and a second element that rotates slower than the first element when operating. An annular clearance is defined between the first and second elements. An annular seal has a first portion engaging with the first element and a second portion engaging with the second element. |
| US10247288B2 |
Circular wave drive
A circular wave drive system, and a method for use of a circular wave drive, are provided. In one embodiment, a circular wave drive is provided, the circular wave drive comprising: a substantially enclosed housing having a chamber therein, a ring-shaped wheel residing in the chamber, a wave generator having a wheel-driving portion that is oriented within the hollow central portion of the ring-shaped wheel; and an output element having a wheel-driven portion that is oriented within the hollow central portion of the ring-shaped wheel opposite the wheel-driving portion of the wave generator. |
| US10247285B2 |
Locking and unlocking mechanism for ram air turbine
A locking mechanism comprising a linkage assembly comprising a first link and a second link joined at a pivot point; a linkage assembly spring to bias the linkage assembly into a first, locked, position; a cam assembly having a cam 1 with a cam surface in engagement with the linkage assembly; a cam biasing member such as a spring arranged to bias the cam surface to press against the linkage assembly sufficiently to overcome the linkage assembly spring and to force the linkage assembly into a second, unlocked position; and a solenoid assembly arranged to engage the cam in a locked position in which the cam is prevented from forcing the linkage assembly into the unlocked position. |
| US10247283B2 |
Automatic transmission for hybrid vehicle and control method
An automatic transmission for a hybrid vehicle, includes: an input shaft (AE) driven by the heat engine; an output wheel, ring gear or pinion (RCPS); a stationary element (ES), such as a casing; an electric motor (ME) in which the stator (ST) is rigidly connected to the stationary element (ES); and at least first, second and third members for selective torque transmission (C13; C234; C12-E2), which can be engaged or activated selectively in order to establish different transmission ratios. The automatic transmission also includes a single Ravigneaux double planetary gear set (TPR) in which the functional elements that make up same are arranged in two stages of planetary gear sets (ET1 and ET2) connected by the aforementioned members to the input shaft (AE), to the rotor (RO) of the electric motor (ME) and to the stationary element (ES). |
| US10247277B1 |
Cable gripper system
Disclosed is an integrated mechanical means for gripping and releasing a cable or wire rope comprising opposing gripper members having a cable gripping surface and mechanical means for timing the closing and opening of the gripper members about a cable surface such that each gripping member applies substantially the same pressure to the cable or wire rope surface at substantially the same time. |
| US10247273B2 |
Composite over wrap
A composite wrap is provided for damping vibration in an elongated quill shaft having a cylindrical body. The composite wrap includes interior layering for disposition about a cylindrical body, exterior layering configured to define an exterior composite wrap shape and sequential cured-in-place, vibration damping, fibrous epoxy layers. The sequential cured-in-place, vibration damping, fibrous epoxy layers are radially interposed between the interior and exterior layering to dampen vibrations of and/or to adjust a resonance frequency of the cylindrical body. |
| US10247270B2 |
Motion conversion mechanism and electric brake actuator using the same
A motion conversion mechanism includes: a cylindrical body having an internal screw and third gear teeth in an inner periphery thereof, the internal screw being provided in a screw region that is an intermediate region in an axial direction of the cylindrical body; a shaft body disposed coaxially with the cylindrical body inside the cylindrical body and having first gear teeth and a first external screw in an outer periphery thereof; and a plurality of planetary rollers. First planetary rollers among the planetary rollers mesh with the gear teeth formed in a first gear region and do not mesh with the gear teeth formed in a second gear region, and second planetary rollers among the planetary rollers mesh with the gear teeth formed in the second gear region and do not mesh with the gear teeth formed in the first gear region. |
| US10247265B2 |
System and method for selective electromechanical coupling and/or uncoupling of automotive alternator
It is herein described a system and a corresponding method to carry out the selective coupling and uncoupling of an alternator in relation to an engine crankshaft pulley. The alternator is kept coupled or uncoupled depending on the detected battery charge, and both coupling and uncoupling are performed in two different steps and lagged in time, one step providing the electric coupling or uncoupling, and the other step providing the mechanical coupling or uncoupling. |
| US10247264B2 |
Selectable one-way clutch
A selectable one-way clutch includes a fixed plate, a rotatable plate, a switching plate, an arm member, and an actuator including an operating shaft member for moving the arm member. Lubricating oil is interposed between any adjacent two of the fixed plate, the switching plate and the rotatable plate. Where a first distance is a distance from a rotation center of the switching plate to a contact point of an operating portion of the arm member and a first contact portion of the operating shaft member in normal switching operation from a disengaged state to an engaged state and a second distance is a distance from the rotation center of the switching plate to a contact point of the operating portion of the arm member and a second contact portion of the operating shaft member in switching plate erroneous operation, the second distance is larger than the first distance. |
| US10247256B2 |
Clutch assembly for automatic transmission
A clutch for an automatic transmission includes a clutch pack having a first set of friction disks interleaved with a second set of friction disks. The clutch further includes an annulus having an outer surface connected to the first friction disks and an inner surface. The annulus defines oil holes extending from the inner surface to the outer surface to permit oil to flow from the inner surface to the clutch pack. Air passageways are defined in the annulus and extend through the annulus permitting air to flow from the inner surface to the clutch pack to reduce drag losses between the first and second sets of disks. Each of the air passageways have an entrance that is radially inboard of an entrance of each of the oil holes. |
| US10247255B2 |
Hub unit having a brake disc
A hub unit has a brake disc and a hub body disposed to rotate with a rim on which a tire is mounted. An internal space is formed in the hub body, wherein the brake disc is fixed in the internal space. A fixed shaft is disposed and fixed along a rotation center shaft of the hub body. A brake shoe is coupled to the fixed shaft. A brake pad is disposed to contact the brake disc. A braking force applier supplies a braking force to the hub body wherein the brake pad and the brake disc are in contact with each other. |
| US10247254B2 |
Friction clutch with intermediate element
A friction clutch assembly includes a friction clutch having at least two coupling elements coupled to each other and disposed axially movable with respect to each other. Immediately adjacent coupling elements are each assigned to two sides of a power path defined by the coupling of the at least two coupling elements. An intermediate element is provided on which the coupling elements of one side of the power path are held movably in an axial direction of the coupling elements. The intermediate element is switchable between a locked state and a free-running state. An actuator element opens and closes the friction clutch. In a free-running state, a free rotation of the held coupling elements with respect to the assigned side of the power path is permitted, and in a locked state the held coupling elements are blocked from free rotation. |
| US10247250B2 |
Fixed type constant velocity universal joint
An outer joint member includes a cutout portion that is formed at least at each corner portion on an opening side of a cup section, which is defined between a radially inner opening end portion of each of track grooves and a radially inner spherical surface portion formed between the track grooves. The cutout portion is configured to prevent a cage from interfering with the outer joint member when the cage is incorporated into the outer joint member. The cutout portion and the track grooves of the outer joint member are finished by cold-forging ironing using a single ironing punch. |
| US10247248B2 |
Drive shaft and manufacturing method therefor
A drive shaft includes a first shaft member made of metal, a tubular member made of CFRP, and a first exterior sleeve. The first shaft member is capable of being attached on one end side thereof to a first constant velocity joint, and has a first serrated part on which serrations are formed on another end side thereof. The tubular member is formed with a first fitting part fitted externally over the first serrated part. The first exterior sleeve covers the first fitting part by being disposed to extend over outer circumferential surfaces of the first shaft member and the tubular member. A film provided with a bonding assistance region and an adhesive are interposed between the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member and the inner circumferential surface of the first exterior sleeve. |
| US10247246B2 |
Tool coupler with threaded connection for top drive
Coupling a top drive to tools. A drive unit includes a drive stem having torque gear profile, threaded load coupling, torque sleeve movable between first position and second position, a sleeve gear profile engaging the torque gear profile when in second position; or spindle unit and annular motor coupled to the spindle unit; or drive stem having first friction surfaces; transmission unit having second friction surfaces parallel to first friction surfaces; and transmission selector movable to an “on” or an “off” position. A method may include rotating a drive stem of drive unit, threading coupling with a tool stem of tool adapter; moving a torque sleeve of drive unit to engage a torque gear profile of the drive stem and a stem gear profile of the tool stem; or rotating a spindle unit relative to drive stem to contact a counter nut of spindle unit with the tool stem. |
| US10247239B2 |
Tilting-pad bearing and turbo compressor
The tilting-pad bearing includes: a plurality of tilting pads arranged around a rotary shaft; a housing including a lubricating oil-supplying hole provided at a position facing a gap formed between the tilting pads disposed next to each other; and a pair of side plates disposed so that the tilting pads are interposed therebetween. The tilting pad is provided with an internal flow passageway through which lubricating oil flow. The internal flow passageway includes a first inflow opening, a second inflow opening, and a discharge opening. |
| US10247238B1 |
Sliding track assembly
A sliding track assembly with a first structure having first and second opposing pairs of convex rails connected to a surface of a compartment of the first structure. The sliding track assembly has a second structure having first and second opposing pairs of rail guide recesses located on an outer wall surface of the second structure. The first and second opposing pairs of convex rails of the first structure are aligned with the first and second opposing pairs of rail guide recesses of the second structure. An opening of the first structure receives an end of the second structure. The second structure slidably traverses a length of the first structure when the first opposing pair of convex rails are aligned with the first opposing pair of rail guide recesses and when the second opposing pair of convex rails are aligned with the second opposing pair of rail guide recesses. |
| US10247237B2 |
Rolling bearing and motor having the same
A rolling bearing includes an inner rim fixed to a rotating shaft, an outer rim spaced apart from the inner rim, a rolling member disposed between the inner rim and the outer rim, and an elastic mesh defining a plurality of through-holes and surrounding an outer circumferential surface of the outer rim. |
| US10247232B2 |
Rolling-element bearing cage or rolling-element bearing cage segment
A rolling-element bearing cage or segment configured to guide at least one rolling element includes a first circumferential ring connected to a second circumferential ring by a plurality of axially extending bridges. A first one of the bridges includes a first axial portion that has a cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction and a cross sectional area and a peripheral length. The peripheral length of the cross section of the first axial portion is greater than a peripheral length of a smallest rectangle bounding the cross section. |
| US10247230B2 |
Hinge mechanisms
Embodiments generally relate to hinge mechanisms. The central cylinder has a rotate channel transverse to the hinge axis. A collar may couple with the central cylinder and may include a pin that protrudes inwardly into the rotate channel. In some embodiments, the central cylinder may include a second rotate channel and the pin may extend through the first and second rotate channels of the central cylinder. In some embodiments, the central cylinder may include a tapered locking channel that extends and tapers in an axial direction from the rotate channel. Optionally, the collar may include an aperture for receiving the pin therethrough. The pin may be repositionable to a plurality of positions relative to the collar about an insertion axis. The pin repositioning may vary an axial position of the collar relative to the central cylinder, a rotational range of motion of the collar about the central cylinder, or both. |
| US10247228B2 |
Ball joint assembly having friction coated components and methods of assembling a ball joint assembly having defined gaps
A ball joint assembly includes a housing at least partially defining a cavity. A ball stud includes a head portion positioned within the cavity and a shaft extending from the head portion. A ball race having an inner surface is positioned within the cavity to define an interface between the inner surface of the ball race and an outer surface of the head portion. A solid friction coating is positioned within the interface. The solid friction coating is coupled to the inner surface of the ball race and/or the outer surface of the head portion of the ball stud. A piston can also be positioned within the cavity, wherein at least one gap is defined between the ball race and the piston and/or between the ball race and the housing. Methods of assembling a ball joint assembly are also disclosed. |
| US10247225B2 |
Device for producing a functional shaft
A device for producing a functional shaft and a functional shaft are provided in which a functional element which is provided with a pocket is inserted into a retaining element, a shaft is inserted into the pocket, and a force applied to the functional element while the shaft is being inserted into the pocket is measured. |
| US10247224B2 |
Refrigerator and refrigerator door
A refrigerator and refrigerator door in which the door includes a door panel that includes metal and that defines a first surface of the door and a second surface of the door. The door also includes a bending portion that is bent from the door panel toward a first side of the door panel and a cap panel that includes metal, that defines a third surface of the door and a fourth surface of the door, that is coupled to the door panel and a first surface of the bending portion, and that includes a recess. The door further includes a fixing member that is configured to press a second surface of the bending portion and that is coupled to the cap panel. The bending portion of the door is configured to be pressed between the cap panel and the fixing member. |
| US10247222B2 |
Fastener system with fastener extension and driving tool
A fastener includes a shank having a first attachment device for attachment to a first workpiece and a head having a second attachment device for attachment to a second workpiece. The fastener can be a screw and the first attachment device includes a thread formation on the shank. The head includes a drive formation at a central portion thereof, in the form of a Phillips head screwdriver recess. The second attachment device in the head includes attachment members integrally formed in the head, being three prongs which extend in a generally opposite direction to the shank. |
| US10247218B2 |
Brushing retention of threaded fastener
A fastener assembly includes a first component having a back face and a first mating face opposing the back face, and a second component having a front face and a second mating face opposing the front face. The first component and the second component arranged such that the first mating face is closest to the second mating face. A bushing is installed through the first component, an outer surface of the bushing having frictional engagement with the first component to retain the bushing thereat. A threaded fastener extends through the bushing and the second component, and transmits a load into the bushing. A nut is secured to the fastener at the second component to retain the second component at the first component and which induces the load into the fastener. The frictional engagement between the bushing and the first component is configured to resist the load applied to the fastener. |
| US10247216B2 |
Fastenerless anti-peel adhesive joint
A fastenerless anti-peel adhesive joint includes a first part having a first surface and forming a first anti-peel feature including a first anti-peel surface, a second part having a second surface and forming a second anti-peel feature including a second anti-peel surface, and an adhesive disposed between the first and second surfaces and within the first and second anti-peel features. The adhesive connects the parts via adhesive bonds at the first and second surfaces and at the first and second anti-peel surfaces. The first and second anti-peel features are configured to load the adhesive bonds at the first and second anti-peel surfaces in shear stress when the fastenerless anti-peel adhesive joint is subjected to a peel force that is normal to the first and second surfaces such that the shear strength of the adhesive bonds at the first and second anti-peel surfaces prevents the parts from being peeled apart. |
| US10247214B2 |
Dissimilar material joining structure and producing method of dissimilar material joined body
A dissimilar material joining structure includes: a plate-shaped resin member; a plate-shaped metallic member; and a metallic rivet. The rivet includes a shaft, and a head integral with a first end of the shaft, and disposed outside a hole of the resin member hole. The shaft includes: a pillar; an enlarged diameter portion; and a punching portion that is joined to the metallic member via a weld. The hole of the resin member includes: a small-diameter hole portion adjacent to the pillar, and having an inner diameter equal to a diameter of the enlarged diameter portion; and a large-diameter hole portion adjacent to an outer circumference of the punching portion, and having an inner diameter greater than the diameter of the enlarged diameter portion. |
| US10247212B2 |
Device for mounting an object
A device for holding an object to a support utilizing a base member that is connected to a resilient body via a connection mechanism. An arm is hingedly connected to the base member and possesses a surface for mounting an object. The base member and resilient body fit over a support. |
| US10247208B2 |
Speed controller
A speed controller capable of controlling an action speed of an external cylinder in one stroke in a step-wise manner. The speed controller includes a first flow path and a second flow path that allow a first port and a second port to be in communication with each other. The first flow path is provided with a first check valve for allowing flow from the first port to the second port. The second flow path is provided with a first needle valve, and an opening hole of the first check valve is constituted as a part of a flow path. The first needle valve adjusts the flow rate by changing an opening area of the opening hole with a tip portion fixed on a piston in the cylinder chamber. The speed controller further includes a third flow path allowing the first port and the cylinder chamber to be in communication with each other. The third flow path is provided with a second check valve for allowing flow from the first port to the cylinder chamber. |
| US10247205B2 |
Accumulator racks
A method of charging a hydro-pneumatic energy storage system is described. The system has a first hydro-pneumatic accumulator with a first hollow vessel. Disposed within the first hollow vessel is a first compressible volume containing a first amount of gas. The system has a second hydro-pneumatic accumulator with a second hollow vessel. Disposed within the second hollow vessel is a second compressible volume containing a second amount of gas. The gas contained in the first volume is pre-pressurized to a first hydrostatic pre-charge pressure and the gas contained in the second volume is pre-pressurized to a second hydrostatic pre-charge pressure. The second pre-charge pressure is higher than the first pre-charge pressure. In addition, the gas in the first volume is pressurized by discharging a non-compressible hydraulic fluid into the first vessel while keeping a quantity of non-compressible hydraulic fluid contained in the second vessel constant to keep the pressure of the gas contained in the second volume at the second pre-charge pressure. |
| US10247204B2 |
Hydraulic control apparatus and hydraulic control method
A hydraulic control apparatus includes: a branch path that branches from a passage connected to an oil pump and equipment to which oil is supplied by the oil pump; an accumulator connected to the branch path to accumulate and discharge high-pressure oil supplied from the branch path; a check valve provided in an oil inlet path through which oil flows into the accumulator; a balance valve unit including a reference pressure chamber, a balance valve body that is biased toward an opening side by an opening compression spring, and a control pressure chamber; and a control solenoid that introduces or discharges the high-pressure oil into or from the control pressure chamber. |
| US10247196B2 |
Blade module and fan using the same
A blade module and a fan using the same are provided. The blade module includes a rotating shaft and a plurality of blades. Each blade is connected to the rotating shaft and includes a blade body and an airflow guiding portion. The airflow guiding portion is connected to the blade body and has an opening. |
| US10247195B2 |
Impeller for a centrifugal headbox feed pump
An impeller structure for a centrifugal pump that can feed both fibrous suspensions and water into a headbox of a fibrous web machine. The centrifugal pump utilizing the impeller structure pumps stock for both liquid-laid and foam-laid paper, tissue or board making applications and pumps water or other dilution fluid into a headbox circulation. In general, the impeller of the present invention is especially suitable for all such pumping tasks in the production of fibrous webs that a pulseless or low-pulse impeller is needed. |
| US10247193B2 |
Reservoir egress fluid coupler
A gas turbine engine includes a bearing support positioned fore of a compressor section along a primary flowpath. The bearing support internally includes a fluid reservoir with a reservoir tube, a fluid pump with a fluid pump tube, and a fluid coupler coupling the reservoir tube to the fluid pump tube. |
| US10247190B2 |
Actuation method and efficiency
A multi-stage centrifugal pump assembly allows for multiple fixed ratio pressure levels. The multiple pressure levels permit optimization of actuation loops without the need for pressure regulators, and can be used directly by the actuators. |
| US10247189B2 |
Scroll compressor with oldham ring having a plurality of keys coupled to an orbiting scroll and a fixed scroll
A scroll compressor is provided. The scroll compressor may include a fixed scroll having a fixed wrap and a plurality of first key recesses, an orbiting scroll engaged with the fixed scroll to define a compression chambers and having an orbiting wrap and a plurality of second key recesses, the orbiting scroll performing an orbiting motion with respect to the fixed scroll, a drive having a rotation shaft coupled to the orbiting scroll such that one end portion thereof overlaps the orbiting wrap in a lateral direction, and an Oldham ring having a plurality of first and second keys coupled to the plurality of first key recesses and the plurality of second key recesses, respectively. The plurality of second keys may at least temporarily protrude from the plurality of second key recesses in a radial direction during the orbiting motion. Further, the plurality of second key recesses and the plurality of second keys may be disposed to obtain maximum contact areas therebetween at a moment of start of discharging. |
| US10247181B2 |
High-pressure fuel pump
A high-pressure fuel pump includes a pressurizing chamber for pressurizing fuel, an outlet valve for discharging the fuel pressurized in the pressurizing chamber to an outlet passage, a relief passage for connecting the outlet passage located downstream of the outlet valve and the pressurizing chamber with each other while bypassing the outlet valve. A relief valve device is provided in the relief passage and adapted to open when an internal pressure of the outlet passage becomes higher than that of the pressurizing chamber, thereby providing communication between the outlet passage and the pressurizing chamber. The relief valve includes a relief spring mechanism for pressing a relief valve to a relief valve seat. At least the relief spring mechanism among members of the relief valve device is provided outside the pressurizing chamber in the pump body. |
| US10247178B2 |
Variable displacement axial piston pump with fluid controlled swash plate
A variable displacement axial piston pump including a cylinder block defining a plurality of cylinder bores, each receiving a piston. A swash plate having a piston-supporting surface is pivotally supported relative to the cylinder block. A port block defines first and second pumping ports arranged in fluid communication with the plurality of cylinder bores such that, during operation of the pump, one of the first and second pumping ports is configured to supply fluid to the cylinder bores for pumping, and the other of the first and second pumping ports is configured to receive fluid pumped from the plurality of cylinder bores. The swash plate partially defines at least one variable volume control chamber, and the swash plate is operable to tilt with respect to the port block in response to a fluid pressure change in the at least one control chamber. |
| US10247174B2 |
Solar thermal power generation system and solar thermal power generation method
A solar thermal power generation system includes a solar heat collection system that generates superheated steam by solar heat, a main power generation system that performs power generation by part of the superheated steam generated by the solar heat collection system, a solar heat storage/release system that stores heat in a heat storage medium or releases the heat stored in the heat storage medium, and a secondary power generation system that performs power generation by saturated steam generated by the heat storage or the heat release in the solar heat storage/release system. The solar heat storage/release system includes a heat storage heater for exchanging heat between the rest of the superheated steam generated by the solar heat collection system and the heat storage medium to store heat in the heat storage medium and to generate saturated steam, a low-temperature tank for containing the heat storage medium to be supplied to the heat storage heater, and a high-temperature tank for containing the heat storage medium after the heat storage in the heat storage heater. The secondary power generation system includes a saturated steam turbine into which the saturated steam generated by the heat storage heater can be introduced. |
| US10247173B2 |
Elastic motor-spring actuator
An actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a fixed member and a free member. The free member is operatively engaged with the fixed member so that the free member is moveable with respect to the fixed member. The actuator also includes means for moving the free member with respect to the fixed member. An elastic element operatively associated with the free member and the fixed member is operable to store energy without a change in an overall length of the actuator. |
| US10247171B2 |
System and method for coordinating wake and noise control systems of a wind farm
A system and method for simultaneously coordinating a wake control system and a noise control system of a wind farm having a plurality of wind turbines is disclosed. The method includes determining, via a farm controller, one or more wake control set points for the wake control system. Further, the method includes determining, via the farm controller, one or more noise control set points for the noise control system. The method also includes selecting, via the farm controller, between the wake control set points and the noise control set points for each of the plurality of wind turbines. Thus, the method also includes sending, via the farm controller, the selected control set points to local controllers of the plurality of wind turbines and operating the wind farm based on the selected control set points. |
| US10247170B2 |
System and method for controlling a dynamic system
A control system for a dynamic system including at least one measurement sensor. The system includes at least one computing device configured to generate and transmit at least one regulation device command signal to at least one regulation device to regulate operation of the dynamic system based upon at least one inferred characteristic. |
| US10247168B2 |
Rotational mechanical transformer apparatus and methods
A rotational mechanical transformer has been arranged for transfer and transformation of velocity, force, angular momentum, torque, energy/work, energy density, and pressure, associated with at least one rotating device. The transformer includes an actuator having at least one cylinder arranged to contain the at least one working fluid, an externally supported shaft and a drive shaft having parallel axes orthogonally displaced by a predetermined displacement, and each respectively connected to at least one connecting arm and at least one additional connecting arm. The at least one cylinder includes at least one actuator rod and at least one blind end each respectively connected with at least one revolving eccenter axle and the at least one drive shaft, and have been arranged to allow for angular displacements of the at least one actuator with respect to the parallel axis. |
| US10247167B2 |
Independent power generating method using water pressure and vapor, and generating device thereof
The present invention relates to an independent power generating method using water pressure and vapor, and a generating device thereof, which: sequentially circulate water by using a head drop of water and high-pressure vapor so as to continuously generate power, and generate power with a natural head drop caused by the gravity of water and, simultaneously, produce power with vapor; and naturally increase, condense, and reuse the vapor so as to hardly waste water resources such that power can be efficiently generated by efficiently rotating water wheels connected to an electric generator. |
| US10247164B2 |
Ignition apparatus
An ignition apparatus includes an ignition plug, a boost transformer, an ignition power source and a measurement unit. The ignition plug has a center electrode and a ground electrode. The boost transformer supplies the ignition plug with electric power generated in a secondary coil upon supply of AC power from the ignition power source to a primary coil. The measurement unit measures the discharge voltage of the ignition plug. The ignition power source includes a discharge state determining unit that determines the discharge state of the ignition plug based on the measured discharge voltage and a current controlling unit that controls electric current supplied to the primary coil. When a discharge path formed between the center and ground electrodes of the ignition plug is determined by the discharge state determining unit as being in an over-extended state, the current controlling unit reduces the electric current supplied to the primary coil. |
| US10247162B2 |
Starter for a combined heat and power unit
A starter system for start up of a combined heat and power unit comprising a generator which is connectable to the grid. The starter system comprises a variable frequency drive, VFD, operable to receive power from the grid. The VFD reduces the frequency of the power, and provides the reduced-frequency power to the generator to start the generator. The starter system further comprises a bypass relay configured to bypass the VFD. The bypass relay allows direct connection between the grid and the generator after the generator has started. The variable frequency drive is configured to operate temporarily during start up of the combined heat and power unit. |
| US10247160B2 |
Engine starting system
A control device sets reverse rotation period as a cranking prohibition period, and when a start request of an engine is generated during reverse rotation period, cranking is started by driving either or both of the first starter and the second starter when it is detected that a crankshaft is shifted from reverse rotation to forward rotation based on an information of a rotation angle sensor. As a result, the delay from generation of the start request of the engine until cranking is started can be reduced, so that the starting time of the engine can be shortened. |
| US10247159B2 |
Recoil starter and engine
A recoil starter (103) includes a pull rope reel (22), a ratchet wheel (31), a pulley (32), a ratchet pawl (33), and an outer wall (32e). The ratchet pawl (33) is capable of swinging between an engaged position where the ratchet pawl engages with a protruding part (31a) and a disengaged position where the ratchet pawl does not engage with the protruding part, and is always urged toward the engaged position. A support surface (32d) of the outer wall (32e) supports the base end portion of the ratchet pawl (33) when the ratchet pawl (33) is in the engaged position. The internal space of the pulley (32) and the external space of the pulley (32) are communicate with each other through the foreign matter discharge portion (32f) of the outer wall (32e). |
| US10247157B2 |
Diamond like carbon (DLC) coating for ethanol-blended fuel injector applications
A vehicle part or component includes a surface that is configured to contact a fuel containing ethanol. The surface has a layer of non-hydrogenated diamond like carbon (NH-DLC) material disposed on the surface. The layer of NH-DLC has a thickness of from greater than or equal to about 100 nm to less than or equal to about 100 μm. The NH-DLC material has a carbon content of greater than or equal to about 90 atomic % (at. %), a carbon-carbon sp3 hybrid bond content of from greater than or equal to about 60% to less than or equal to about 100%, and a carbon-carbon sp2 hybrid bond content of from greater than or equal to about 0 to less than or equal to about 40%. The NH-DLC material is substantially free of hydrogen atoms. Methods for manufacturing the vehicle part or component are also provided. |
| US10247152B2 |
Multi-layer piezoelectric element, and injection device and fuel injection system provided with the multi-layer piezoelectric element
A multi-layer piezoelectric element includes: a stacked body in which piezoelectric layers and internal electrode layers are laminated; a conductor layer disposed on a side face of the stacked body; a conductive joining material layer disposed on a surface of the conductor layer; and an external electrode joined to the conductor layer via the conductive joining material layer, the conductive joining material layer comprising solder and a conductive adhesive, the solder constituting an end of the conductive joining material layer which end confronts an end of the external electrode to be connected to an external circuit. There is provided a multi-layer piezoelectric element which suppresses separation of an end on an input/output side of the external electrode and is driven stably for a long period of time, an injection device and a fuel injection system which are provided with the multi-layer piezoelectric element. |
| US10247151B2 |
Fuel-tank-equipped working machine
A fuel-tank-equipped working machine is provided, which is capable of securing a fuel tank to be large in a state where the fuel-tank-equipped working machine is secured to be compact. A generator 10 as a working machine includes a fuel tank 25 supported at an outer case 12. The working machine 10 includes a tank opening 35 that is formed at the outer case 12, a mounting concave portion 38 that is formed on the fuel tank 25, and a cushion portion 37 that is capable of being housed in the mounting concave portion 38. The tank opening 35 is formed so as to be able to expose an upper half part 25a of the fuel tank 25 to an outside 14 of the outer case 12. Further, the cushion portion 37 has a fitting groove 63 capable of being fitted to an opening rim 36 of the tank opening 35. |
| US10247148B2 |
Supplementary air assembly for an engine
An internal combustion engine includes a crankcase including a crankshaft and at least one cylinder coupled to the crankcase. The at least one cylinder has an intake port and defines an internal combustion chamber. The engine further includes a throttle body assembly with a throttle valve coupled to the intake port of the at least one cylinder and a throttle plate. Additionally, the engine includes a supplementary air inlet fluidly coupled to the intake port and spaced apart from the throttle valve. The supplementary air inlet is configured to receive a flow of air from a location downstream of the throttle plate when the throttle plate is in a fully closed position and the flow of air is directed into the combustion chamber through the intake port for combustion therein. |
| US10247147B2 |
Air filter device, particularly for a motor vehicle
An air filter device for a motor vehicle, having a filter element received in a filter housing which, at least in sections, is surrounded by an encompassing frame part. A support bead is held on the filter housing which protrudes over the directly adjacent filter housing wall, wherein a sealing element on the frame is supported by the support bead on the housing. |
| US10247144B2 |
Engine exhaust gas recirculation cooling system with integrated latent heat storage device
A method includes operating an internal combustion engine producing, as a byproduct, exhaust gases. The flow of exhaust gases are segregated into a first, relatively hot flow and a second, relatively cold flow. The second flow is directed to an intake of the internal combustion engine for combustion with fresh intake air and fuel. Heat energy from the first flow is stored in a latent heat storage device. Heat energy is released from the latent heat storage device to reduce cold start emissions during a subsequent operation of the internal combustion engine after a period of shutoff. |
| US10247143B2 |
Exhaust gas recirculation apparatus
A exhaust gas recirculation apparatus includes a throttle body; an intake manifold configured to distribute intake air to each intake port in an engine; an adapter member including a through channel capable of guiding the intake air to the intake manifold from the throttle body; and a gas supply path capable of guiding part of exhaust gas to an intake system from an exhaust system. The adapter member includes an inlet port, a discharge port, and a coupling channel. A first opening is wider than a second opening when the discharge port is divided into the first opening and the second opening at an imaginary plane, serving as a boundary, which includes a center line of a valve shaft and which extends along an extending-through direction of the through channel. |
| US10247137B2 |
Thrust reverser system with translating-rotating hinge assembly
A thrust reverser system suitable for a high-bypass turbofan engine of a type having a nacelle. The thrust reverser system includes a transcowl having a stowed, deployed and open positions. A hinge assembly translationally and rotationally couples the transcowl to a fixed structure that does not translate when the transcowl is translated in the aft direction. The hinge assembly includes a first member connected to the transcowl for translation therewith, and a fixed second member that defines a channel in which a portion of the first member is slidably received. The first and second members are configured to enable the portion of the first member to translate within the slider channel in an aft direction corresponding to a translational movement of the transcowl, and to enable the portion of the first member to rotate within the channel corresponding to a pivotal movement of the transcowl. |
| US10247135B2 |
Support structure for crankshaft
A support structure for a crankshaft includes a crankshaft that is rotatably supported on a cylinder block of an internal combustion engine and has an end portion protruding from the cylinder block, a sprocket that is attached on the end portion protruding from the cylinder block and is connected to a cam shaft, a pulley that is attached on the end portion on an opposite side from the sprocket with respect to the cylinder block and is connected to an auxiliary apparatus, and an end bearing that rotatably supports the end portion relative to the cylinder block and is provided on the end portion between the sprocket and the pulley. |
| US10247132B2 |
Piston with sealed cooling gallery and method of construction thereof
A piston for an internal combustion engine and method of construction thereof is provided. The piston has a piston body including an upper part and a lower part. The upper part has an upper combustion surface configured for direct exposure to combustion gases within a cylinder bore with an undercrown surface beneath the upper combustion surface. The body has a ring belt region configured for receipt of at least one piston ring adjacent the upper combustion surface with an annular cooling gallery configured radially inwardly from the ring belt region. The cooling gallery has a floor, wherein the floor has at least one through opening. A coolant medium is disposed in the cooling gallery, and a sealing member is disposed in the at least one through opening to seal off the coolant medium in the coolant gallery. |
| US10247129B2 |
Cylinder liner for internal combustion engine
A cylinder liner for an engine block that includes an inter-bore saw cut includes a first engine block bonding surface, and a second engine block bonding surface that has a lower level of bonding between the cylinder liner and an engine block than the first engine block bonding surface. The second engine block bonding surface extending from an axial end portion of the liner a distance greater than a depth of the saw cut in inter-bore section of the engine block. |
| US10247128B2 |
Bolt-on cylinder kit and method for increasing the displacement of an engine
A cylinder for a V-twin engine includes a section of steel tubing cut to a length. The section of steel tubing includes a first portion having a first wall thickness and a second portion having a second wall thickness less than the first wall thickness. The second wall thickness is less than 0.050 inch. The section of steel tubing includes a first ribbing pattern on an outer surface, within the first portion, and a second ribbing pattern including multiple ribs formed on individual ribs of the first ribbing pattern. A cast body is provided on the first portion of the section of steel tubing so that the section of steel tubing is fixedly secured within the body to form a cylinder sleeve defining a cylinder bore. The second portion having the second wall thickness extends from an end of the body to be received within a bore of a crankcase. |
| US10247125B2 |
Fuel injection valve control device
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a fuel injection valve control device with which variability in the injection amount with respect to drive pulse width can be kept to a satisfactory level in each of a plurality of fuel injection devices. The present invention provides a fuel injection valve control device for controlling a plurality of fuel injection devices each equipped with a valve body and a solenoid for opening the valve body, characterized in that the device is configured such that, a prescribed time after voltage has been applied to the solenoid, a holding current is applied, the prescribed time and the holding current being corrected for each of the fuel injection devices, on the basis of the operating characteristics of the fuel injection device. |
| US10247122B1 |
Control system for turbocharged engine system and operating method for same
An engine control system is structured for operating a turbocharged engine system and includes an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit is structured to switch the engine system from operation in a parasitically loaded mode where fuel pressurized by a fuel pump is dumped to a low pressure space, to operation in a second mode, where an engine load increase is detected. Turbocharger lag in the engine system is limited during increasing the engine load by way of exhaust energy produced in response to the parasitic loading. Related methodology is disclosed. |
| US10247121B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining optimum skip fire firing profile
In one aspect, a skip fire engine controller is described. The skip fire engine controller includes a skip fire module arranged to determine an operational firing fraction and associated cylinder load for delivering a desired engine output. The skip fire engine controller also includes a firing controller arranged to direct firings in a skip fire manner that delivers the selected operational firing fraction. Various methods, modules, lookup tables and arrangements related to the selection of a suitable operational firing fraction are also described. |
| US10247116B2 |
Hydrocarbon vapor start techniques using a purge pump and hydrocarbon sensor
An evaporative emissions (EVAP) control system for a vehicle includes a purge pump configured to pump fuel vapor to an engine of the vehicle via a vapor line and a purge valve. The system includes a hydrocarbon (HC) sensor disposed in the vapor line and configured to measure an amount of HC in the fuel vapor pumped by the purge pump to the engine via the vapor line. A controller is configured to: detect an imminent cold start of the engine and, in response to the detecting, perform the cold start of the engine by controlling at least one of the purge pump and the purge valve, based on the measured amount of HC, to deliver a desired amount of fuel vapor to the engine, which decreases HC emissions by the engine. |
| US10247114B2 |
Exhaust gas control system for internal combustion engine and control method for internal combustion engine
In the exhaust gas control system, the electronic control unit is configured to execute first air-fuel ratio control for controlling an air-fuel ratio of an air-fuel mixture in a part of cylinders to a lean air-fuel ratio and controlling an air-fuel ratio of an air-fuel mixture in the other part of the cylinders to a rich air-fuel ratio is executed. The electronic control unit is configured to execute second air-fuel ratio control to perform malfunction diagnosis. The electronic control unit is configured to execute second air-fuel ratio control when the execution of the first air-fuel ratio control is interrupted after the temperature of the three-way catalyst becomes equal to or higher than the diagnosis temperature. |
| US10247110B2 |
Method and system for reliable gas to liquid transfer
A method and system for transitioning a gas turbine from burning gaseous fuel to liquid fuel and purging the liquid fuel therefrom after transfer back to the gaseous fuel are disclosed herein. The method includes pressurizing a volume of liquid fuel in an accumulator with a first volume of motive gas. A valve is opened in response to low gaseous fuel pressure in the gas turbine to permit the volume of liquid fuel to flow through a conduit to the gas turbine. A volume of flushing medium is pressurized in the accumulator with a second volume of motive gas. The valve is opened to permit at least a portion of the volume of flushing medium to flow through the conduit to flush any of the volume of liquid fuel remaining in the conduit after the gas turbine consumes the volume of liquid fuel. |
| US10247107B2 |
Accessory gearbox for gas turbine engine
An accessory gearbox capable of driving the accessory devices of a gas turbine engine, such as an aircraft engine. Said accessory gearbox includes a housing and a plurality of gear wheels having axes that are parallel to one another inside the housing. The housing includes a means for attaching the accessory devices to the wall of the housing and driving them, via the gear wheels, through openings in the wall of the housing. The gear wheels are supported in the housing by rolling-element bearings. Each rolling element includes a first ring that is stationary relative to the housing, and a movable ring, secured to the gear wheel, wherein at least one of said gear wheels is supported by a single rolling element. |
| US10247102B2 |
Fuel/oil manifold
A single, unitary fuel/oil manifold for a gas turbine engine is provided which comprises one or more interfaces for mounting various fuel system and lubricating system components directly to the fuel/oil manifold. The fuel/oil manifold also defines fluid passages for transferring fuel or lubricant from one component to another component. Packing numerous fuel system and lubricating system components within the fuel/oil manifold reduces cost and weight and simplifies maintenance. |
| US10247096B2 |
Modular gas turbine inlet cooling systems
An inlet cooling system unit that is fluidly coupled to a gas turbine can include a filter module configured to filter inlet air, a chiller module configured to cool inlet air, and a framework. The framework is sized and shaped to define a filer module receiving region which supportably receives the filter module, and a chiller module receiving region which supportably receives the chiller module, the chiller module receiving region located below the filter module receiving region such that the chiller module is received below the filter module. Related gas turbine inlet cooling systems are also provided. |
| US10247093B2 |
Variable compression ratio connecting rod
An assembly including a connecting rod, a bushing, and a locking pin capable of providing different compression ratios in an engine is provided. The bushing is disposed in a bore of the connecting rod. An outer surface of the bushing includes a pair of notches, and an inner surface of the connecting rod includes a corresponding notch for receiving the locking pin. The notches are spaced from one another by greater than 180° and by no more than 190°. The locking pin is movable in the notch, allowing the bushing to rotate from a low compression position to a high compression position, or vice versa. The bushing has a varying thickness, and thus a center axis of an opening of the bushing is closer to the shaft of the connecting rod body when the bushing is in the low compression orientation than in the high compression orientation. |
| US10247092B2 |
Rotary internal combustion engine with cooled insert
A rotary internal combustion engine having an insert opening defined in a hot area of one of the walls of the stator body and in communication with its internal cavity. A cooling jacket is received in and lines the insert opening. An insert is sealingly received in the cooling jacket and made of a material having a greater heat resistance than that of the wall. The cooling jacket extends between the insert and the wall along most of the length of the insert to prevent direct contact between the insert and the wall. A cooling gallery surrounds the cooling jacket and the insert, and is defined at least in part by the cooling jacket such that a coolant circulated therein contacts the cooling jacket. The cooling jacket is located between the cooling gallery and the insert. |
| US10247091B2 |
Method of gas distribution of internal combustion engine
An air, entering into the cylinder of the piston internal combustion engine (PICE) via intake valve (or coming both: through intake valve and through intake ports in the sleeve), flows out through the exhaust ports in the sleeve at the end of the intake stroke and/or at the beginning of the compression stroke. Thus increase (compared with the conventional—“PICE”) scavenging through the cylinder at full engine loads.In idle running, at low loads and in starting the backflow of exhaust gases into the cylinder is performed. Due to this, the starting is better. |
| US10247089B1 |
Condensate port of an integral intake manifold
A power train system includes a heat exchanger reservoir to collect condensate, a layered intake manifold, and integral tubing leading from the reservoir to an interior of the intake manifold via an intake manifold wall such that there is no seal between the condensate port and the manifold. The tubing splits into at least two branches transitioning into a set of wings containing a plurality of nozzles protruding into the interior. |
| US10247084B2 |
Regulating member
There is provided a novel regulating member that ensures easy manufacturing and does not adversely affect cooling water and environment. A spacer 6 is inserted from an opening 30 of a cooling water flow passage 3 into the cooling water flow passage 3 to be disposed. The cooling water flow passage 3 is disposed in a cylinder block 1 in an internal combustion engine. The spacer 6 includes a supporting member 7 with rigidity formed into a shape configured to be disposed in the cooling water flow passage 3 and a regulating portion 8 supported by the supporting member 7. The regulating portion 8 regulates a flow of cooling water. The regulating portion 8 includes a cellulose-based sponge 81. The cellulose-based sponge 81 is restorable from a compressed state through a contact with the cooling water w. |
| US10247083B2 |
Straddle vehicle and radiator air-guide device
A straddle vehicle is capable of discharging high-temperature outdoor air having passed through a radiator with high efficiency. A motorcycle 1 includes a radiator, a fan, and a fan shroud. The radiator lowers the temperature of a coolant by heat exchange between outdoor air and the coolant. The fan suctions outdoor air, to make the outdoor air hit the radiator arranged upstream in an outdoor air flow direction. The fan shroud covers at least part of the fan, and discharges high-temperature outdoor air, which is outdoor air suctioned by the fan and having passed through the radiator, to outside. The fan shroud has a discharge opening and an air guide. The discharge opening allows the high-temperature outdoor air to be discharged outside. The air guide guides the high-temperature outdoor air such that it is discharged through the discharge opening in a direction including a laterally outward component. |
| US10247078B2 |
Catalyst thermal regeneration by exhaust gas
Method and system for thermal regeneration of a catalyst by inlet turbine exhaust gas from a diesel engine, where a gas split stream (08) is led from the engine exhaust (02) through an eductor (04) and further to regeneration of a catalyst, wherein a cold air stream (09) is used to keep the regeneration gas stream at a desired constant temperature range. |
| US10247077B2 |
Retention material for gas processing device
A retention material for a gas processing device including a processing structure and a casing for accommodating the processing structure, the retention material including inorganic fibers and being arranged between the processing structure and the casing, wherein in a test of repeating a cycle of compressing the retention material until a bulk density of the retention material becomes a prescribed compression bulk density, followed by retaining for 10 seconds, and then releasing until a bulk density of the retention material becomes a release bulk density that is smaller by 12% of said prescribed compression bulk density; a release surface pressure of the retention material after repeating the cycle 2500 times and the compression bulk density of the retention material satisfies the relationship, P≥17.10×D−1.62 wherein P is the release surface pressure (N/cm2) and D is the compression bulk density (g/cm3). |
| US10247075B2 |
Systems and methods for reducing noise in reductant insertion assemblies
An aftertreatment system comprises an aftertreatment component structured to decompose constituents of an exhaust gas produced by an engine. A reductant insertion assembly is fluidly coupled to the aftertreatment component and configured to insert a reductant therein. A controller is operatively coupled to the reductant insertion assembly and configured to instruct the reductant insertion assembly to insert the reductant into the aftertreatment component for a first insertion time between first time intervals. The controller determines an operating condition of the engine, and determines if the operating condition satisfies a predetermined condition. In response to the predetermined condition being satisfied, the controller instructs the reductant insertion assembly to insert the reductant into the aftertreatment component for a second insertion time between second time intervals. The second insertion time is longer than the first insertion time. |
| US10247071B2 |
Titania-doped zirconia as platinum group metal support in catalysts for treatment of combustion engine exhausts streams
Composites of mixed metal oxides for an exhaust gas purifying catalyst comprise the following co-precipitated materials by weight of the composite: zirconia in an amount in the range of 55-99%; titania in an amount in the range of 1-25%; a promoter and/or a stabilizer in an amount in the range of 0-20%. These composites are effective as supports for platinum group metals (PGMs), in particular rhodium. |
| US10247064B2 |
Rocker arm assembly for engine braking
An exhaust valve rocker arm assembly operable in a combustion engine mode and an engine braking mode can include a rocker shaft and a rocker arm. The rocker shaft can define a pressurized oil supply conduit. The rocker arm can receive the rocker shaft and is configured to rotate around the rocker shaft. The rocker arm can have an oil supply passage defined therein. A valve bridge can engage a first exhaust valve and a second exhaust valve. In the engine braking mode, pressurized oil is communicated through the pressurized oil supply conduit, through the rocker arm oil supply passage and against an actuator such that a first plunger acts on the valve bridge during rotation of the rocker arm to a first angle opening the first valve a predetermined distance while the second valve remains closed. |
| US10247062B2 |
Variable valve mechanism of internal combustion engine
A variable valve mechanism includes a first cam and a second cam, a main arm that drives a valve when swinging, a first sub arm that swings when pressed by the first cam, a second sub arm that swings when pressed by the second cam, and a switch device. The switch device includes a first switch pin that moves between a first coupled position between the main arm and the first sub arm and a first uncoupled position, and a second switch pin that moves between a second coupled position between the main arm and the second sub arm and a second uncoupled position. Both switch pins are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in positions where these switch pins do not overlap at least during a base circle phase in which base circles of both cams act. |
| US10247056B2 |
Camshaft adjusting device
A camshaft adjusting device including —a vane cell adjuster and —a central locking device (26) for locking the rotor (17) with respect to the stator (16), wherein —at least one first valve functional pin (46) is provided in the rotor hub (30), and the working chambers (20, 21, 22, 23) with different directions of action can be fluidically connected to one another via said valve functional pin, —in a first switch position, the first valve functional pin (46) fluidically connects at least two first working chambers (20, 21) with different directions of action to each other via a non-return valve (9, 10) during a movement from the direction “early” or “late” into the central locking position, —in a second switch position, the first valve function pin (46) fluidically separates the at least two first working chambers (20, 21) with different directions of action, —a bridging line (50) is provided for a fluid-free connection of the two first working chambers (20, 21), and —the bridging line (50) can be switched by a valve pin (45). |
| US10247054B2 |
Electromagnetic adjusting device
An electromagnetic adjusting device having a first, second and third plug contacts for operating the adjusting device on an operating voltage source having a first and second voltage pole. The device can include an actuator coupled to the plug contacts. The actuator can have a magnet coil with a first terminal connected to the first plug contact, a second terminal connected to the second plug contact, where either the first or the second plug contact is connected to the first voltage pole. The magnet coil can also have a first transistor with a first control electrode connecting the first terminal to the third plug contact, a second transistor having a second control electrode connecting the second terminal to the third plug contact, a first resistor connecting the first control electrode to the second plug contact and a second resistor connecting the second control electrode to the first plug contact. |
| US10247052B2 |
Guide assembly for valve lifters of engines
A guide assembly for a valve lifter of an engine. The valve lifter is at least partly received within a bore of a body of the engine and an end portion of the valve lifter is exposed to an outside of the body. The guide assembly includes a pin and a guide. The pin is adapted to be fixedly coupled to the end portion of the valve lifter, while the guide is adapted to be coupled to the body. The guide defines a channel. The pin is received within the channel and cooperates with the channel to facilitate a movement of the valve lifter along an axis of the bore and to restrict a rotation of the valve lifter about the axis of the bore. |
| US10247048B2 |
Gate valve
Gate valve (1) with a valve casing (4) and a closing body (3) arranged longitudinally movably in the valve casing (4). An inlet channel (5) and an outlet channel (6) are formed in the valve casing (4). The closing body (3) via longitudinal movement cooperates with a valve seat (8) formed in the valve casing (4) and hence opens and closes a hydraulic connection between the inlet channel (5) and the outlet channel (6). The inlet channel (5) and the outlet channel (6) are each formed as a spiral. |
| US10247047B2 |
Control method for an organic rankine cycle
An embodiment of the present invention is a method of controlling an Organic Rankine Cycle system, the system comprising at least one feed pump (2), at least one heat exchanger (3), an expansion turbine (5) and a condenser (6), the organic Rankine Cycle comprising a feeding phase of an organic working fluid, a heating and vaporization phase of the same working fluid, an expansion and condensation phase of the same working fluid, wherein said method controls an adjusted variable (X), which is a function of an overheating of the organic fluid, by means of a controller (20) that acts by varying a control variable (Y), which is a parameter of the organic fluid in its liquid phase, and wherein the adjusted variable (X) is a temperature difference (ΔT) between a current temperature of the organic fluid in vapor phase at the turbine inlet and a temperature threshold (Tlim), under which the expansion phase involves the formation of a liquid phase of the organic fluid. |
| US10247043B2 |
Ducted cowl support for a gas turbine engine
A ducted cowl support includes an annular structure configured to be mounted to an annular turbine engine frame and including one or more bypass ducts integrally formed therein. |
| US10247042B2 |
Fan track liner
A containment arrangement for a gas turbine engine comprises: a radially outer annular casing (12); a fan track liner (28) radially within the casing comprising: an impact region (30) comprising a cellular material having a first compressive strength; at least one elongate ridge portion (26) extending through the impact region in a direction having an axial component, the ridge portion having a second compressive strength higher than the first compressive strength; and a gas-washed layer (38) radially within the fan track liner. |
| US10247041B2 |
Multi-purpose mounting
A frame employed in a turbine exhaust case of a gas turbine engine includes a frame outer ring, a frame inner ring, and a plurality of frame struts that connect the frame outer ring to the frame inner ring. The frame outer ring includes a plurality of bosses disposed circumferentially around the frame outer ring, wherein at least one of the plurality of bosses includes a mounting surface that receives and secures a removable bracket to the frame outer ring that supports a weight of the frame. |
| US10247039B2 |
Locking of blade-supporting components
The invention relates to an assembly which includes: two rotationally symmetrical components (10, 20) for supporting the blades of a turbine engine, arranged one inside the other concentrically about a turbine engine axis, and a system (30) for locking the components (10, 20) such as to prevent the relative translation of same in the axial and radial directions relative to said axis, the system including a slotted ring (40) comprising a U-shaped cross-section suitable for receiving one end of the components (10, 20), the assembly being characterized in that the ring (40) and one of the components (10, 20) are shaped such as to allow the ring to be interlocked on the component, and in that the locking system (30) also includes a member for stopping the rotation of the ring relative to the component with which the latter is interlocked. The invention further relates to a method for assembling such an assembly. |
| US10247034B2 |
Turbine vane rear insert scheme
An internally cooled turbine vane for a gas turbine engine has coolant flow channels between the interior walls of the vane and an insert, where the channels serve to convey a portion of the cooling air flow from a pressure side chamber to a suction side chamber. The turbine vane defines a radially extending passage with a dividing wall defining a front section and a rear section; the rear section having interior walls spaced apart from an insert to define the pressure side chamber and the suction side chamber. The insert may receive cooling air and conveys the cooling air into the pressure side chamber and the suction side chamber. A front surface of the insert or a rear surface of the dividing wall may have a clearance gap and an air flow channel communicating between the pressure side chamber and the suction side chamber. |
| US10247030B2 |
Gas turbine and operating method thereof
Provided is a gas turbine capable of achieving high-speed startup of the gas turbine through quick operation control of an ACC system during startup of the gas turbine, improving the cooling efficiency of turbine stationary components, and quickly carrying out an operation required for cat back prevention during shutdown of the gas turbine. Included are a pressurizing device (40) connected to a branching channel (42) branching from the discharge side of a compressor (11) and capable of carrying out an operation for introducing and pressurizing air independently from the compressor (11); a temperature-control-medium supply channel (43) that guides compressed air pressurized at the pressuring device (40) to a turbine-cooling-medium channel (50) provided in stationary components of a turbine (13); and a temperature-control-medium return channel (44) that guides the compressed air that has passed through the turbine-cooling-medium channel (50) to the discharge side of the compressor (11) such that the flows are combined, and the pressurizing device (40) is operated at startup of the gas turbine and in preparation immediately before startup to carry out temperature-raising and cooling by letting the compressed air flow in the turbine-cooling-medium channel (50). The pressurizing device (40) is operated during shutdown of the gas turbine to exhaust the high-temperature gas remaining in the turbine (13). |
| US10247029B2 |
Method for clearance control in a gas turbine engine
A gas turbine engine, system, and method with clearance control are provided. For example, the gas turbine engine includes a static component, and a rotating component that shifts axially in one of an aft direction and a forward direction in relation to the static component during a first operating condition of the gas turbine engine, and shifts axially in the other of the aft direction and the forward direction in relation to the static component during a second operating condition of the gas turbine engine. The first operating condition is when a rotating component growth and a static component growth change at different rates. The second operating condition is when the rotating component growth and static component growth normalize. |
| US10247028B2 |
Gas turbine engine blade outer air seal thermal control system
A clearance control system for a gas turbine engine is provided. The system includes an inner axial wall that extends between a forward wall and an aft wall. The system also includes an outer axial wall that extends parallel to the inner axial wall to pivotally receive a full hoop thermal control ring. |
| US10247027B2 |
Outer airseal insulated rub strip
A blade outer airseal has a body comprising: an inner diameter (ID) surface; an outer diameter (OD) surface; a leading end; and a trailing end. The airseal body has a metallic substrate and a coating system atop the substrate along at least a portion of the inner diameter surface. At least over a first area of the inner diameter surface, the coating system comprises an abradable layer and a thermal barrier layer between the abradable layer and the substrate; and the thermal barrier layer comprises a ceramic and metallic phases within the ceramic. |
| US10247026B2 |
Erosion resistant coating for air seal
A seal is formed of a matrix and includes hard particles. The matrix has a shear strength of greater than or equal to 200 psi and less than or equal to 2000 psi. A gas turbine engine is also disclosed. |
| US10247025B2 |
Rotating machine
A rotating machine includes a casing (10) having a cavity (12) that a tip of a rotor blade enters, a plurality of sealing fins (17) extending from an inner circumferential surface of the cavity (12) of the casing (10) toward the tip of the rotor blade (50) and configured to seal a space between the casing (10) and the rotor blade (50), and swirl breakers (2) disposed between the plurality of sealing fins, extending from the inner circumferential surface of the cavity (12) of the casing (10) inward in the radial direction, and having swirl flow collision surface (3) with which a swirl flow collides and swirl flow transmission parts (n) formed at at least parts of the swirl flow collision surfaces (3) and through which the swirl flow passes in a circumferential direction. |
| US10247024B2 |
Seal assembly for a turbomachine
The present disclosure relates to a turbomachine that includes a first component and a second component coupled to another and a seal assembly between the two components. The seal assembly may include an upstream corner shim and a downstream corner shim, where one of the upstream corner shim or the downstream corner shim includes a pressure actuation feature configured to block a flow of gas between the two components. |
| US10247018B2 |
Pylon matched fan exit guide vane for noise reduction in a geared turbofan engine
A disclosed fan section of a gas turbine engine includes a fan rotor having a plurality of fan blades and a duct defining a passageway aft of the fan rotor. A fan exit guide vane is disposed within the duct downstream of the fan blades. The fan exit guide vane includes a plurality of exit guide vanes positioned downstream of the fan rotor with at least two of the plurality of exit guide vanes including different aft geometries for guiding airflow through the passage to reduce pressure distortions at the fan blades. |
| US10247017B2 |
System and method for gas bearing support of turbine
A system includes a gas delivery disk coupled to a second shaft, wherein the second shaft and the gas delivery disk are disposed about an axis. The gas delivery disk includes an inner axial opening configured to facilitate a first axial flow through a first passage within the second shaft, a duct configured to supply a bearing flow in a radial direction toward the axis, and a bearing face disposed within the first passage and radially interior to the inner axial opening. The bearing face is configured to receive the bearing flow, and the bearing face is configured to form a gas bearing between the bearing face and a first shaft disposed about the axis. |
| US10247016B2 |
Steam turbine
A steam turbine includes a flow guide placed about a rotor shaft and forming a side wall of a diffuser. The flow guide is formed in such a substantially truncated conical shape that a first portion having a semi-circular-arc cross section and a second portion having a semi-circular-arc cross section and exhibiting less thermal deformation than the first portion are combined together. A coupling portion of the first portion with the second portion has a first protrusion protruding, in the circumferential direction thereof, more on a rotor shaft side than on a steam flow path side of the diffuser. A coupling portion of the second portion with the first portion has a second protrusion protruding, in the circumferential direction thereof, more on the steam flow path side of the diffuser than on the rotor shaft side and overlapping with the first protrusion in the radial direction of the flow guide. |
| US10247007B2 |
Airfoil shape for a turbine rotor blade
A turbine rotor blade is provided including an airfoil having an airfoil shape. The airfoil shape having a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table I wherein the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z are non-dimensional values from 0% to 100% convertible to dimensional distances in inches by multiplying the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z by a height of the airfoil in inches, and wherein X and Y are distances in inches which, when connected by smooth continuing arcs, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z, the airfoil profile sections at Z distances being joined smoothly with one another to form a complete airfoil shape. |
| US10247006B2 |
Turbine blade having radial throat distribution
Various embodiments of the invention include turbine blades and systems employing such blades. Various particular embodiments include a turbine blade having: an airfoil having: a suction side; a pressure side opposing the suction side; a leading edge spanning between the pressure side and the suction side; and a trailing edge opposing the leading edge and spanning between the pressure side and the suction side, wherein the trailing edge defines a radial throat distribution between the airfoil and an adjacent airfoil; and a base connected with a first end of the airfoil along the suction side, pressure side, trailing edge and the leading edge. |
| US10247004B2 |
Heat exchanger with decreased core cross-sectional areas
A heat exchanger has a first plurality of fluid passages with an inlet manifold communicating into a core portion, and then an outlet manifold. A second plurality of fluid passages has an inlet manifold communicating into a core portion, and then into an outlet manifold and the core portions of both the first and second pluralities of fluid passages having smaller cross-sectional areas than cross-sectional areas of the inlet and outlet manifolds. A gas turbine engine and a method of forming a heat exchanger are also disclosed. |
| US10247002B2 |
In situ gas turbine prevention of crack growth progression
A method for remotely stopping a crack in a component of a gas turbine engine is provided. The method can include inserting an integrated repair interface attached to a cable delivery system within a gas turbine engine; positioning the tip adjacent to a defect within a surface of the component; temporarily attaching the tip adjacent to the defect within the surface on the component; supplying a new material to the area to fill the defect; and heating the new material to fuse the new material to the component within the defect. |
| US10246999B2 |
Locking system to prevent rotation of toolholder
A mounting block assembly and method for assembling is disclosed. The mounting block assembly may comprise a mounting block and a toolholder. The mounting block may include a flighting portion, a mounting portion and a protrusion. The mounting portion defines a first bore that is configured to receive a toolholder. The toolholder includes a generally cylindrical sidewall that defines an axis and defines a second bore that is configured to receive a stem of a cutting bit. The sidewall includes a pair of radially outward extending prongs that define a first recess between the prongs. The first recess is configured to interlockably receive the protrusion when the toolholder is disposed in the mounting portion, wherein the interlocked configuration of the toolholder and the mounting block inhibit rotational movement of the toolholder about the axis. |
| US10246997B2 |
Sample testing device and fluid pumping installation comprising such a testing device
A device for testing samples of material in a fluid upstream of a pump of a fluid pumping installation and a pumping installation comprising such a device, the device comprising: a casing having one inlet opening for the fluid and one outlet opening for the fluid, the outlet opening fixed to the pump; and a perforated cartridge to contain the samples of material to be tested, the perforated cartridge being arranged in the casing between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. |
| US10246990B2 |
Probe for trenchless guide instrument
A probe for a trenchless guide instrument includes an antenna, a control circuit board and at least one battery supplies power to the control circuit board; one battery is disposed inside the battery region; the control circuit board is disposed inside the electronic region; a first insulating pipe is disposed inside the antenna and outside the battery, the antenna further includes a magnetic core, and a coil winds around the magnetic cores and one end of the coil is connected to the control circuit board; the magnetic core further includes magnetic core units, each magnetic core unit is made from magnetic material, the magnetic core units are positioned on a peripheral surface of the first insulating pipe, and are insulated from each other. |
| US10246985B2 |
Boring tool tracking fundamentally based on drill string length, pitch and roll
A boring tool moves having a pitch orientation, a yaw orientation and a roll orientation and is steerable underground using the roll orientation. A maximum drill string curvature is established for steering. The boring tool is advanced over a path segment. An averaged roll characteristic is determined for movement of the boring tool along the path segment. A path segment pitch orientation is established based on at least one measured pitch orientation along the path segment. Using the maximum drill string curvature in combination with the averaged roll characteristic and the path segment pitch orientation, the yaw orientation is determined. The averaged roll characteristic is determined based on a series of incremental roll measurements that are spaced across the path segment. A set of coupled ordinary differential equations is used to characterize movement of the boring tool. |
| US10246984B2 |
Well fracturing systems with electrical motors and methods of use
A system for stimulating oil or gas production from a wellbore includes a hydraulic fracturing pump unit having one or more hydraulic fracturing pumps driven by one or more electrical fracturing motors, a variable frequency drive (VFD) controlling the electrical fracturing motors, a fracturing pump blower unit driven by a blower motor, and a fracturing pump lubrication unit having a lubrication pump driven by a lubrication motor and a cooling fan driven by a cooling motor. The system may further include a blender unit and a hydration unit. A system control unit may control the operational parameters of the system. |
| US10246980B2 |
Flooding process for hydrocarbon recovery from a subsurface formation
A method of treating a subsurface formation with low permeability to increase total oil production from the formation is disclosed. The method may include providing a first fluid into two or more fractures emanating from a first wellbore. The first fluid may be provided at a pressure below a fracture pressure of the formation. The first fluid may increase a pressure in zones substantially surrounding a first fracture and a second fracture emanating from the first wellbore. A zone having a lower pressure may be located between these zones. Additional fractures may be formed from a second wellbore in the formation with at least one of the additional fractures emanating from the second wellbore and propagating into the lower pressure zone. Hydrocarbons may be produced from the second wellbore. A second fluid may be provided into the first wellbore before and/or after producing the hydrocarbons from the second wellbore. |
| US10246971B2 |
Flow activated valve
A valve assembly for a plug to close off a zone in the well for further treatment above the plug features a valve member initially pinned in an open position where flow up to a predetermined level can move through without dislodging the valve plug to move to its associated seat. If the perforating gun misfires a replacement gun can be run in with flow as the plug is still retained in the position for flow through the plug. On the other hand flow around the plug above a predetermined level will shear retainers for the plug and let the plug land on its seat closing flow in a downhole direction for treatment. |
| US10246968B2 |
Surge immune stage system for wellbore tubular cementation
A method for cementing a tubular string into a wellbore includes: running the tubular string into the wellbore using a workstring having a deployment assembly; delivering an opener activator through the workstring to the deployment assembly, thereby launching an opener plug from the deployment assembly; pumping the opener activator and plug to a stage valve of the tubular string, thereby opening the stage valve; pumping cement slurry into the workstring; pumping a closer activator through the workstring behind the cement slurry, thereby launching a closer plug from the deployment assembly; and pumping the closer activator and plug to the open stage valve, thereby driving the cement slurry into an annulus between the tubular string and the wellbore and closing the stage valve. |
| US10246966B2 |
Downhole seal element of changing elongation properties
An isolation device with seal element having substantial elongation properties at a time of setting and insubstantial elongation properties at time of drill out. That is, the seal element may be constructed of materials that are geared toward providing effective temporary sealing, for example to support stimulation operations. The seal is also tailored to change elongation properties over time such that upon sufficient exposure to downhole conditions the elongation properties may be substantially reduced. Thus, drillable removal of the device and seal element may be readily attained without undue concern over stretchable tearing of the element leading to an accumulation of large debris left behind in the well. |
| US10246964B2 |
Casing hanger retention system
A system includes a housing of a wellhead, a hanger configured to be positioned within the housing of the wellhead, and a hanger retention system. The hanger retention system includes a key-slot interface having at least one retention segment configured to move between a collapsed position in which the at least one retention segment does not block movement of the hanger relative to the housing of the wellhead and an engaged position in which the at least one retention segment engages at least one corresponding slot to block movement of the hanger relative to the housing of the wellhead. The at least one retention segment includes a wavy cross-sectional shape at least while the at least one retention segment is in the engaged position that enables the at least one retention segment to move between the collapsed position and the engaged position. |
| US10246963B2 |
System and method for deploying and using at least one control module for in-riser and open water operations
A technique facilitates control of subsea equipment by providing a modular electro-hydraulic control system which can be used with various types of subsea equipment. The modular system is constructed to accommodate high axial loading while also withstanding high bending forces. Additionally, the components of the modular system are constructed and arranged to enable the modular system to fit through a rotary table of a rig. Depending on the parameters of a given application, the modular control system may be utilized for open water operations and in-riser operations. |
| US10246962B2 |
Methods and apparatus for collecting and preserving core samples from a reservoir
Provided herein are methods and apparatus for collecting and preserving core samples from a reservoir. In some embodiments, a method includes obtaining core samples from a reservoir using a rock and fluid sampling tool and depositing the core samples in a vessel filled with a hydrogen-free fluid such that a portion of the hydrogen-free fluid is displaced by the core samples and the core samples are immersed in the hydrogen-free fluid. The method also includes transferring a gas into the vessel to occupy a space in the vessel and sealing the vessel via a cap on an end of the vessel. Methods of analyzing the core samples core samples collected from a reservoir and a rock and fluid sampling tool are also provided. |
| US10246961B2 |
Setting tool for downhole applications
A setting tool for deploying a downhole tool within a wellbore is described herein. The setting tool uses an in situ non-explosive gas-generating power source to generate high-pressure gas, which drives a mechanical linkage to actuate the deployment of the downhole tool. According to certain embodiments the non-explosive gas-generating setting tool contains no hydraulic stages and may contain only a single piston. The setting tool may be fitted to provide different stroke lengths and can provide usable power over a greater percentage of its stroke length, compared to setting tools using explosive/pyrotechnic power sources. Methods of using a non-explosive gas-generating setting tool to deploy a downhole tool within a wellbore are also disclosed. |
| US10246955B2 |
Self-aligning mud pump assembly
A self-aligning mud pump apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the mud pump includes a rotatable crankshaft, a crosshead, a crosshead guide, and a hub disposed in a housing. The hub is disposed on the crankshaft and is operable to convert rotating motion of the crankshaft to reciprocating motion of the crosshead within the crosshead guide. The hub is coupled to the crosshead via a connecting rod, which is connected the crosshead such that the connecting rod has five degrees of freedom with respect to the crosshead guide. The mud pump may also or instead include a piston coupled to the crosshead with five degrees of freedom between the piston and the crosshead. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed. |
| US10246949B2 |
Slip style rod spinner for pipe bursting machine
A system for pushing and pulling rod strings through the ground or an underground pipe. The apparatus has a downhole tool attached to the distal end of the rod string. The push/pull machine has a stationary frame that is placed against the ground to provide a reaction surface. The stationary frame has an opening for the rod string to pass through. A rod gripping assembly is supported on the machine frame and moveable relative to the stationary frame. The push/pull machine has a powered rod section spinner to add or remove rod string sections from the rod string. An actuator powers movement of jaws into a spinner bowl to cause a powered gripping of the rod string section. With the rod string section gripped a motor is activated to rotate the rod string section to connect it to a rod string or disconnect it from the rod string. |
| US10246948B2 |
Threaded connection having high galling resistance and method of making same
A process for treating a pin having an external threaded portion and a box having an internal threaded portion wherein the process provides a threadable joint having a high galling resistance. One embodiment of the present invention includes applying a lubricant on the threaded portion of at least one of the pin and box. The threadable joint is made up by threadably engaging the threaded portions of the pin and box to a recommended torque according to the American Petroleum Institute and then breaking out the threaded joint. The making up and breaking out step with lubricant applied on the threaded portion of at least one of the pin and box is performed a plurality of times. One of the threaded portions of the pin and box is then case hardened. The threadable joint made from this process is highly resistant to galling without the requirement of any lubricant. |
| US10246947B2 |
Mechanical-load bearing and electrically isolating mechanical connection
A hollow body composed of an electrically conducting material and extending longitudinally along an axis is connected at one axial end to a connection element composed of an electrically conducting material and extending along the axis. A first thread is provided on the hollow body at the one axial end running about the axis, while a second thread is provided on the connection element running about the axis, so that the second thread is mechanically supported by the first thread. An insulation-material extent between the first thread and the second thread electrically isolates the hollow body from the connection element. |
| US10246933B2 |
Window unit assembly station and method
An insulated glass unit (IGU) assembly station can include an assembly table, a conveyor assembly, and a projection component. The assembly table can have a table surface configured to receive first and second transparent window components, the table surface being positioned at an incline relative to a vertical position. The conveyor assembly can be configured to translate the first and second transparent window components along a translation pathway from a first end of the table surface to a second end of the table surface, the translation pathway being substantially parallel to the table surface. The projection component can be adjacent to the assembly table and can be configured to engage the first transparent window component to translate at least a bottom portion of the first transparent window component between an initial position and a first assembly position offset from the translation pathway. |
| US10246932B2 |
Deployable sandwich-like shell structural system
One embodiment of a deployable structural system having sandwich-like shell stiffness and strength properties is constructed of an outer elastic sheet and an inner elastic sheet connected by a number of substantially rigid webs wherein hinges constitute the connections. The hinge connection spacing dimensions on the inner and outer elastic sheets differ such that the resulting assemblage may be elastically bent into a compact cylindrical configuration. Deployment is achieved through reversal of the bending process and application of sufficient external restraints such that the deployed configuration is structurally stable. Additional application embodiments are described. |
| US10246930B2 |
System and method for remotely controlling and determining a status of a barrier
A system and method for remotely controlling and determining a status of a barrier that include determining that a vehicle is parked at a predetermined vicinity of the barrier. The system and method also include sending at least one barrier control signal to remotely control movement of the barrier based on the initial state of the barrier. The system and method additionally include determining a current state of the barrier. The system and method further include presenting the current state of the barrier, wherein the current state of the barrier is presented to display if the current state of the barrier is a closed state based on the at least one barrier control signal sent to remotely control movement of the barrier. |
| US10246927B2 |
Sensing edge
A sensing edge for providing a signal to a controller indicating that a forward edge of a door is obstructed during operation is provided. The sensing edge includes an elongate sheath and a first end plug assembly having a first end plug and a first end flap. The first end plug includes an engaging structure which is positioned within a first cavity of the sheath in an assembled configuration. The first end flap includes a body having a top edge and an opposing bottom edge. The top edge includes a first overhang and the bottom edge includes a second overhang. A third overhang is provided between the first and second overhangs. The first overhang is at least in partial facing engagement with an upper surface of the first end plug and the third overhang is at least in partial facing engagement with a lower surface of the first end plug. |
| US10246926B2 |
Driver for a movable window pane, window pane arrangement
A driver for a movable window pane, in particular of a motor vehicle, having a receptacle recess, a receptacle of an edge section of the window pane, and having an elastically displaceable detent lug which is designed to engage in a latching cutout of the window pane in order to arrest the window pane on the driver, wherein the detent lug, in the reset position thereof, obstructs the receptacle recess and has an insertion taper assigned to the receptacle recess such that the detent lug is displaced into a position releasing the receptacle recess by insertion of the window pane into the receptacle recess. The detent lug has a catch groove on the insertion taper which extends parallel to the receptacle recess over the detent lug. |
| US10246925B2 |
Adjustable casement window sash lifter
A sash lifter assembly for a casement to equalize the amount of reveal at the top and bottom of the casement window sash, and that is also adjustable to accommodate manufacturing tolerances. The sash lifter raises the entire sash up to equalize the reveal at the top and bottom of the window. It is adjustable to accommodate the variation in reveal due to manufacturing tolerances. |
| US10246924B2 |
Door anti-slamming device
A door anti-slamming device, wherein the device includes a chamber with an entrance located at a first end; wherein the chamber houses a plunger component with a tip configured to slidably move in and out of the entrance, therefore defining a compacted configuration and an extended configuration of the device, respectively; wherein the device includes an biasing means configured to bias the device towards the extended configuration; wherein the device includes a first cavity and a second cavity located within the chamber and/or plunger component, and wherein a partition is located between the first and second cavity characterised in that the partition includes an orifice configured to control material transfer rate between the first cavity and second cavity, wherein the device is configured to transition to the compacted configuration at a rate controlled by the material transfer from the first cavity into the second cavity. |
| US10246922B2 |
Dampener for an appliance
A dampener, and an appliance with a dampener, wherein the dampener provides resistance against the movement of a door of the appliance between an open and closed position. The dampener can be incorporated into the door of the appliance in manner than provides strength for proper operation while also allowing for streamlined aesthetics and less bulk. |
| US10246918B2 |
Door hinge or window hinge
A door hinge (1) or window hinge (1) having two hinge parts (2,4) which are operatively connected to one another so as to be rotatable about a common hinge axis (2), wherein at least one door-or-window-side first hinge part (3) has a plate-like portion (8) which interacts in a fixedly and releasably connectable manner with a holding piece (9) which can be inserted into a groove in the end side of the door or window, wherein the plate-like portion (8) is oriented in an imaginary plane running parallel to the hinge axis (2) and is adjustable with respect to the holding piece (9) in an imaginary plane running at a right angle to the plane of the plate-like portion (8), and wherein an adjustment screw (11) can be screwed into at least one thread (1) of the holding piece (9). Provision is made for a head (12) of the adjustment screw (11) to be arranged between an intermediate piece (14) and the plate-like portion (8) by a clamping device (5) which applies to force to the plate-like portion (8) and the intermediate piece from opposite side and thus hold them together. |
| US10246917B2 |
Adjustable hinge to eliminate shimming
An adjustable hinge of the present invention includes a hinge pin and a hinge plate coupled to the hinge pin and a plurality of adjusters configured to threadedly engage a plurality of threaded apertures formed in the hinge plate. The adjusters define respective central pass-through bores for receiving a fastener configured to fasten the hinge plate to a door or door frame. The adjusters are operatively associated with a door or door frame, so that, after slightly loosening the existing fastener, rotating the adjuster changes the gap between the hinge plate and the surface of the door or door frame. Once the desired gap has been obtained, the fastener is tightened against the adjuster, and into the door or door frame, thereby maintaining the gap. |
| US10246907B2 |
Spinning knob
The spinning knob includes a shell, a rotation member, and a pushing member. The rotation member is rotatably disposed on the shell. The rotation member includes a threaded portion for screwing with a screw. The pushing member is arranged on the shell and tends to abut against the rotation member to have circumferential interference with the rotation member so that the shell and the rotation member may rotate simultaneously. When the rotation member is screwed to the screw sufficiently and an end of the rotation member abuts against an object, if the shell is further rotated, the rotation member obliquely abuts against the pushing member to make the pushing member trip away from the rotation member so that the pushing member has no circumferential interference with the rotation member and that the shell is rotatable with respect to the rotation member. |
| US10246906B2 |
Method for correctly mounting an electronic door lock on a left-handed or right-handed door
A method of mounting an electronic door lock on a door includes: a manual operation to rotate a protrusion of a rotational actuator to initially press a switch; and an operating procedure implemented by the electronic lock for determining a correct mounting direction of the electronic door lock. The operating procedure includes controlling, in response to a signal sent by the switch that is initially pressed, a driving unit to rotate the protrusion in a direction from the initially pressed switch to the other initially un-pressed switch and to drive a latch to move from an unlatched position toward a latched position, followed by stopping and subsequently controlling the driving unit to rotate the protrusion in a reverse direction and to drive the latch to move toward the unlatched position. |
| US10246902B2 |
Lock device based on a mechanically re-programmable disc-type device and key for the same
A cylinder and key lock mechanism is unlocked when a specific combination of rotation angles of dialer groups, each constituted by one internal dialer disc and by one external dialer ring coupled through teeth, is dialed through rotation of the key having a formed cipher. A security mechanism, being part of the key and driven by the insertion of the key into the cylinder, enables re-programming. When unlocked and with re-programming enabled, re-programming is possible where the inner dialer discs are decoupled from the respective outer dialer rings, the key can be rotated driving only the inner dialer discs and extracted leaving the system in a re-programming configuration. A new key having a different cipher can be inserted and the system exited re-programming with a different coupling between the inner dialer discs and the respective outer dialer rings so that they couple with the new key cipher. |
| US10246901B2 |
Lock assembly with removable cover
A vehicle assembly includes a door and a lock. The lock is configured to selectively maintain the door in a closed position. The lock has a receptor arranged on an exterior side of the door. The vehicle assembly additionally includes a physical engagement interface disposed proximate the receptor. The vehicle assembly also includes a cover which is removably coupled to the physical engagement interface. The cover has an interior surface, an exterior surface, and an aperture extending from the exterior surface through the interior surface. When coupled to the engagement interface, the cover inhibits access to the receptor. The vehicle assembly further includes a deflectable retaining member. The deflectable retaining member is configured to deflect from a first position, retaining the cover to the engagement interface, to a second position, releasing the cover from the engagement interface, in response to insertion of a tool into the aperture. |
| US10246898B2 |
Centralized locking and unlocking mechanisms for tent frames and tent frames having same
Disclosed are tent frames, and centralized locking and unlocking mechanisms for tent frames. A centralized locking mechanism includes a slider coupled with the first connector movably disposed on a central pole, and a fastening assembly coupled with the slider. The fastening assembly includes a fastener configured to selectively couple the second hole of the slider with the first restricting hole of the central pole and thus restrict the slider from moving along the central pole, and decouple the second hole of the slider from the first restricting hole of the central pole and thus allow the slider to move along the central pole. An unlocking mechanism is disposed at the lower end of the central pole for selectively unlocking the centralized locking mechanism. |
| US10246895B2 |
Robotic pool tile cleaner
A robotic swimming pool tile cleaner having a bottom section, an upper section, a fore side, an opposite aft side, a port side and an opposite starboard side, the bottom section having a propeller housing adapted to house a plurality of thrusters being configured to provide forward thrust to the robotic tile cleaner, assist in turning the robotic tile cleaner in a corner of a swimming pool by providing a turning thrust to move the fore side of the robotic tile cleaner away from a swimming pool wall facing the fore side, and to provide side thrust to push the robotic tile cleaner against a swimming pool tile wall facing the port side, and a plurality of cleaning brushes mounted vertically on the port side of the upper section and being configured to touch the swimming pool tile wall and to move during operation of the robotic tile cleaner. |
| US10246892B1 |
Filter booster pump combination
A swimming pool filtration systems and particularly toward a variable speed pump equipped with an electronically commutated motor, capable of producing variable water pressure heads suitable for operating swimming pool pressure cleaners as well as swimming pool filters. An electronically controlled electric actuating diverter valve is used to divert water flow to the filter or the pressure cleaner. |
| US10246891B2 |
Sheathed frame pool
A sheathed frame includes a support frame comprised of a plurality of interconnected support components, a pool liner comprising a pool bottom and a pool wall connected to an outer edge of the pool bottom and extending upward, an upper edge of said pool wall hanging on said support frame and disposed on an inside of said support frame, and at least one sheath disposed on a junction between at least two of said plurality of interconnected support components. Sheaths are respectively provided at the junction of a horizontal side pipe and a T-shaped pipe joint of the frame pool and the junction of a support pipe and the T-shaped pipe joint. |
| US10246888B2 |
Method and apparatus for construction layout
A floor plan is fit to a foundation and points are defined at relevant locations on the floor plan. The points are defined based on the location of the point and the features associated with the point. Walls are laid out at full scale on a construction site based on the floor plan. The walls are located by locating the positions of the defined points, and the defined points are located with a point marker base, prism assembly, and electronic surveying equipment. The prism assembly is mounted to the point marker base, and the point marker base provides a reference point from which an offset distance to the defined point is determined. A rotatable measuring instrument is secured to the point marker base and measures the offset distance. Wall lines are located based on the location of the defined point. |
| US10246885B2 |
Grouting pan assembly with reinforcement ring
A grouting pan assembly includes a reinforcement ring. In another aspect, a grouting pan includes a substantially planar bottom surface and a curved sidewall surrounding the bottom surface. In a further embodiment, a grouting pan assembly includes a grouting pan having a post or mechanical fastener extending from a backside thereof for attachment to a reinforcing ring or layer. |
| US10246881B1 |
Vent assisted single ply roof system
A vent assisted system for reroofing a built up roof surface or a single ply membrane roof covering including an augmented design incorporating mechanical fasteners and an adhesive for attaching strips of single ply membrane or fleece backed single ply membrane in the turbulent vortex areas along the perimeter of a deck. Coupled with roof vents for equalizing the pressure under loose laid sheets of single ply membrane or fleece backed single ply membrane in the field-of-roof area bordering the turbulent wind vortex areas to reduce membrane stress and resist wind uplift pressures during high wind events. |
| US10246880B1 |
Roof edge capping assembly
A roof edge capping assembly for directing water to a roof of a building includes a housing that defines an interior space. The housing comprises steel so that the housing is rigid. The housing has a top, a bottom, opposing ends, a first side, and a second side. The bottom is configured to couple to an upper end of a wall, such as an exterior concrete wall of a building. The first side and the second side are positioned proximate to an outer face and an inner face of the wall, respectively. The first side is dimensionally taller than the second side. The top extends downwardly from the first side to the second side. The top is configured to direct water that contacts the top to a roof of the building and to prevent the water from penetrating the upper end the wall. |
| US10246878B2 |
Stackable wall spacer for supporting reinforcement in concrete constructions
Stackable wall spacer adapted for automated distribution using a feeder device and adapted to support a reinforcement grid, where the wall spacer comprises a plurality of leg sections each having a lower foot adapted to be placed on a mold surface for the concrete, where a plurality of wall spacers can be stacked in each other with the feet of one wall spacer extending into corresponding voids of a subsequent wall spacer, where the side wall of a leg section is parallel with the side wall of a leg section of a subsequent wall spacer. The advantage of the invention is that the wall spacers can be stacked in a space saving manner in each other, which allows a cost-efficient storage and transportation of wall spacers. The invention further allows for wall spacers that can be distributed by using a hand-held or automatic feeder device. Further, a reinforcement grid can be supported by a wall spacer regardless of the position of the spacer. |
| US10246877B1 |
Arrangement for ventilating a laboratory room
An arrangement for ventilating a laboratory is provided wherein a plurality of center carrier elements are in a spaced arrangement above a laboratory table row that defines two walking areas, one on each side of the table row. Each center carrier element comprises a vertical column element fastened on an upper end to the laboratory ceiling and at its lower end having center extension arms extending above the of laboratory table row. On the bottom side, the carrier elements carry a first and second air supply conduit in spaced relationship and delimit a lower receiving space therebetween extending over the length of the laboratory table row to carry supply lines. On the top side, the carrier elements carry an exhaust air conduit or alternatively, a side exhaust air conduit is received on side carrier elements opposite the first or the second air supply conduit. |
| US10246876B2 |
Adjustable bracket for raising a patio roof and method of use
An adjustable bracket for raising a patio roof comprising an attachment mechanism attachable to a fascia or eave on a side of a residential structure; a bracket mechanism configured to raise, support, and attach a patio roof member or joist above the fascia or eave; and an adjustment mechanism to provide an adjustment angle of the bracket mechanism relative to the attachment mechanism to accommodate different roof angles. |
| US10246875B2 |
Multiple element support beam
The present application relates to a vessel support beam comprising two or more beam elements wherein each beam element comprises a first and second opposing long side connected by a top side, a lower side and two opposing end sides, said beam elements are arranged parallelly with at least one long side of one beam element facing a long side of another beam element, thereby forming a reactor support beam having a first and second opposing long side surface, a top surface and a lower surface. |
| US10246874B2 |
Metal decking
In one implementation, a metal deck is provided that includes a plurality of deck components formed in a contiguous metal sheet. Each of the deck components includes a plurality of folded ribs formed along the length of the metal deck. Each of the plurality of folded ribs are configured such that one or more trusses of a building may fit between the plurality of folded ribs. The metal deck may be used to complete the structural diaphragm without using concrete. |
| US10246868B2 |
Modular platform assembly and a method of assembling a modular platform
There is disclosed a modular platform assembly including a plurality of legs (18), a plurality of floor beams (20a,b,c), and a plurality of connectors (24a,b,c,d) for connecting the legs (18) and the floor beams (20a,b,c). Each said connector (24a,b,c,d) comprises: a downwardly open blind recess (59) with a closed top end (60) and an open bottom end (62); and an upwardly open blind recess (64) with a closed bottom end (66) and an open top end (68). The legs (18) are mounted into the downwardly open blind recesses (59) of the connectors (24a,b,c,d) and the floor beams (20a,b,c) are mounted into the upwardly open blind recesses (64) of the connectors (24a,b,c,d) such that the legs (18) extend downwardly from the floor beams (20a,b,c). |
| US10246867B2 |
River course ecological treatment system
A river course ecological treatment system for use in a river includes a plurality of plastic retaining dams disposed in the river that receive and divide the river course into sequential retaining regions arranged in a direction from upstream to downstream; a plurality of ecological biological water purification systems disposed in the sequential retaining regions and each ecological biological water purification system being located between any two adjacent plastic retaining dams of the plurality of plastic retaining dams to purify water within the sequential retaining regions and discharge purified water; and at least one damp land ecological water purification system that is disposed beside the river and that includes a rainwater channel disposed along the river; aquatic plants disposed in the rainwater channel are effective to purify water flowing within the rainwater channel; and draining vents provided in the rainwater channel that discharge purified water into the river course. |
| US10246866B2 |
Toilet fastening assembly and method
A toilet fastening assembly includes a fastener, a washer, and a cap. The fastener includes a base at a proximal end, a support extending from the base, and a threaded shaft extending from the support to a distal end. The base includes two flat surfaces interconnecting two curved surfaces. The support includes two flat surfaces interconnecting two tapered surfaces. The support's flat surfaces are aligned with the base's flat surfaces. The threaded shaft includes two distal tapered surfaces that are positioned perpendicular to the base's flat surfaces and the support's flat surfaces. The cap includes an outer wall defining an inner cavity and an inner cylindrical wall disposed within the inner cavity. The inner cylindrical wall's threaded inner surface receives the threaded shaft of the fastener. The inner cylindrical wall's proximal end is recessed relative to the outer wall's proximal end. |
| US10246864B2 |
Pressure toilet with bulk loading siphon assist
A pressure toilet has a trapway providing “as needed” (bulk dependent) siphon assist. During normal liquid waste or low bulk flushing, no siphon is formed in the trapway, and the water and light waste in the bowl are evacuated solely under the force of the pressurized jet of water. A large volume near or just downstream from the dam is provided to accommodate the blow out from the water jet. Only upon reaching a threshold concentration of bulk waste material in the down leg does the trapway draw a siphon. A horizontal baffle at the lower part of the down leg assists in the accumulation of bulk material of sufficient concentration to establish a siphon in the trapway. |
| US10246863B2 |
Drain valve for low-level water tank flushing
A drain valve for low-level water tank flushing includes a drain valve body, a low-level washing ring flushing device and a switch assembly. The switch assembly includes a switch element and a switch sheet. The switch element is connected to the switch sheet by using a lifting rod. When the switch element opens a sealing assembly of the drain valve body under the action of an external force, the switch sheet changes a channel between a water inlet and a water outlet from a small opening state to a big opening state. |
| US10246861B2 |
Pop-up drain assembly
A pop-up drain assembly for a sink has drain piping, a stopper in the drain piping and a pivot rod for opening and closing the stopper, which tends not to clog because the pivot rod is not within a fluid flow path. In one embodiment the stopper has flow diverter plates that channel fluid flowing through the drain piping away from the pivot rod so that hair, waste and debris does not catch on and accumulate on the pivot rod. In another embodiment the stopper and the pivot rod are engaged through magnetic coupling, and the pivot rod does not protrude into the fluid flow path. The stopper is preferably variable in length for adjustment to fit different distances from the pivot rod to the top of the drain piping. |
| US10246859B1 |
Hand cleaning system
A hand cleaning system includes four cleaning devices, a sensing device and a control device. Cleaning services respectively provided by the four cleaning devices are different. The control device controls each of the cleaning devices and the sensing device. The control device is set with procedure control data, which causes the control device to sequentially activate the cleaning devices when read. The control device has a first operation mode in which each of the cleaning devices can be independently activated, and a second operation mode in which the procedure control data is read upon acquiring a procedure activation signal to temporarily control the cleaning devices to operate. The control device in the second operation mode determines whether a usage time of each of the cleaning devices satisfies a minimum usage time condition to accordingly demand a user to properly perform hand cleaning. |
| US10246855B2 |
Material handling machine with bucket shake control system and method
A material handling machine can be operated in a bucket shake control mode to override proportional control of a valve controlling fluid flow to and from a bucket tilt cylinder of the machine. Fluid flow through the valve upon actuation of a tilt controller such a joystick therefore is proportional to actuator stroke when the shake control system is deactivated and is always maximized regardless of actuator stroke when the shake control system is activated. Bucket shake control is activated through the manual operation of a control device such as a joystick-mounted switch. As a result of this arrangement, proportional control valve actuation always occurs immediately upon bucket tilt controller movement in a direction that is dependent upon a direction of bucket tilt controller movement from the neutral position thereof. |
| US10246853B2 |
Mobile apparatus with operating system
Mobile apparatus comprising a main frame (2), a sub-frame (1) connected rotatably to the main frame and an operating arm connected to the sub-frame, wherein the sub-frame is provided with a seating or standing location for a driver, operating instruments (4) controllable by a driver, and a bus system (5) connected to the operating instruments; wherein the main frame is provided with a lifting device (8) to which an implement (18) is connectable; wherein the mobile apparatus further comprises a drive (7, 17) for driving the lifting device and/or the implement, and a control unit (6, 16) connected to the bus system for controlling the drive on the basis of signals from the bus system; this such that the lifting device and/or the implement are controllable via the bus system using the operating instruments in the sub-frame. |