Document Document Title
US07854792B2 Reactive gas control
Aspects include a valve comprising a flowing liquid, operable to control a flow of gas through a port. Certain aspects include reaction chambers operable to react gases, and in some aspects gases are substantially contained within an envelope comprised of a flowing liquid. Certain embodiments control gas entrance into a chamber with a valve comprised of a flowing liquid controlling gas flow through a port. Various gas scrubbing systems are described, including systems comprising reaction chambers operable to react gases that yield substantial amounts of solid reaction products. Methods for controlling gas flow are disclosed. Systems and methods include sequential steps of wet-scrubbing, reacting and further wet-scrubbing a gas stream.
US07854784B2 Calcium-silicate based slag for treatment of molten silicon
A method for making solar grade silicon from metallurgical grade silicon is accomplished by treating a calcium silicate based slag with ferrosilicon in the first vessel so as to obtain a purification of the calcium silicate based slag. In a second vessel, the purified calcium based silicate slag is used to treat metallurgical grade silicon in order to obtain a solar grade silicon. The purification of calcium silicate based slag in the first vessel is accomplished to reduce phosphorous to a level of less than 3 ppmw.
US07854781B2 Mount for air filter and bezel assembly
A mount for a bezel/air filter assembly for use in mounting the bezel/air filter assembly directly to the rack or cabinet in which electrical equipment is mounted or contained. The mount is affixed to the rack or cabinet rather than to the electrical equipment mounted or contained in the rack or cabinet, making use of the normally unused frontal area along the rail forming the front of the rack or cabinet, maximizing air flow to the equipment mounted in the rack or contained in the cabinet and allowing greater packaging density. Also, by using the rack or cabinet (rather than the equipment) as a support element, the mount is substantially stronger than if the mount was affixed to the chassis.
US07854773B2 Method of producing an electrode plate for a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery
There is disclosed an electrode plate for a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery, which comprises a collector and an active material layer provided on at least one side of the collector, in which the active material layer has one or more slits. Such an electrode plate can facilitate infiltration of a liquid electrolyte even when wound at high density and can have high stability of quality. There is also disclosed a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery with high capacity and high quality, which is constructed using the above-mentioned electrode plate.
US07854761B2 Methods for venous valve replacement with a catheter
A venous valve apparatus, system and method for valve replacement. The valve includes a valve frame, a valve leaflet joined to the valve frame, and a support frame. The valve leaflet includes surfaces defining a reversibly sealable opening for unidirectional flow of a liquid. The support frame meets the valve frame on an axis, where the valve frame and the support frame extend from the axis in an opposing direction. The system further includes a catheter, where the valve can be reversibly joined to the catheter at a location between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter. The system can be used to deploy the valve from the catheter at a predetermined location.
US07854760B2 Medical devices including metallic films
Medical devices, such as endoprostheses, and methods of making the devices are disclosed. The medical device can include a composite cover formed of a deposited metallic film and one or more polymer layers. The polymer layers contribute to mechanical or biological properties of the endoprosthesis.
US07854759B2 Prosthetic flow modifying device
An implantable flow modifying device and a method of modifying flow through a lumen are provided. The flow modifying device includes a flexible member configured for permitting fluid flow through the body lumen in a first direction at a first rate and for restricting fluid flow through the body lumen in a second direction at a second rate. The flexible member includes a passageway defined by a sheath of biocompatible material, the passageway having a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is sized and shaped to at least partially restrict fluid flow in the first direction and capable of at least partially collapsing in response to fluid flow in the second direction. The second end portion is adapted to seal with a wall of the body lumen. A diameter of a first opening defined in the first end portion is smaller than a diameter of a second opening defined in the second end portion.
US07854753B2 Photokinetic delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light
The invention relates generally to transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances through the skin, sub-dermal tissues, blood vessels and cellular membranes without causing damage to the cellular surface, tissue or membrane. The invention provides compositions and methods for enhanced transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light. The invention further provides a device for the application of the pulsed incoherent light to cellular surfaces and membranes using those compositions and methods.
US07854752B2 System and method for dynamic skeletal stabilization
There is disclosed a system and method for dynamic stabilization which provides for distraction of the inter-vertebral space while still allowing a patient a substantial range of motion. In one embodiment, an inter-vertebral dynamic brace is used to maintain proper distraction. The dynamic brace is designed to allow the vertebrae to which it is attached to move through their natural arc, maintaining the correct instantaneous center of rotation. An adjustable tensioning device is used to maintain the proper distraction and compression forces to restore and maintain proper kinematics, while allowing the dynamic brace to move through an arc centered with respect to the center of rotation of the portion of the spine between the vertebrae. In one embodiment, a method is provided for adjusting the dynamic brace both with respect to the center of rotation of the vertebrae in both the flexion/extension axis and in the superior/inferior axis.
US07854751B2 Percutaneous access devices and bone anchor assemblies
A percutaneous access device includes an inner tube and an outer tube disposed about at least a portion of the inner tube. The outer tube may be sized to span from a skin incision in a patient to a site proximate the spine of the patient. The distal end of the outer tube may be adapted to releasably engage a bone anchor. The inner tube may be adjustable relative to the outer tube between a first position and a second position in which the distal end of the inner tube contacts the bone anchor. A bone anchor assembly includes a bone anchor having a distal bone engaging portion and a receiving member having a recess for receiving a spinal fixation element. The proximal end of the receiving member may have an arcuate groove formed on an exterior surface thereof to facilitate connection of an instrument to the receiving member.
US07854747B2 Endoluminal filter
In one aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a filter having a first structural member extending along and clockwise about an axis, a second structural member extending along and counter clockwise about the axis and a material capture structure extending between the first and the second structural members and across the axis. In one aspect, the structural members may be joined to form two ends. In yet another aspect, there is provided a filter having a first spiral shaped support member having an end; a second support member positioned to cross the first spiral support member and form a loop between the end and the place where the second support member crosses the first spiral support member; and a material capture structure extending across and secured to the loop.
US07854745B2 Intragastric device
An implant configured for ingestion by a patient. After the implant has been swallowed by the patient and is disposed within the target location, e.g. the patient's stomach, an inflation subcomponent causes the implant to expand from a compact delivery state to an expanded, volume-occupying, deployed state. In the deployed state the implant creates a sensation of satiety in the patient stomach and thereby aids in limiting food intake and obesity. After a predetermined time a deflation subcomponent is actuated and the implant reduces in size so as to allow it to pass through the remainder of the patient's digestive track. The device may further incorporate tracking and visualization subcomponents, as well as pharmaceutical delivery subcomponents.
US07854738B2 Robotically controlled medical instrument
A medical instrument assembly comprises an elongated shaft, a tool carried by the distal end of the elongated shaft for performing a medical procedure on a patient, a plurality of controllably bendable sections spaced along the elongated shaft and disposed proximal to the tool, a plurality of actuation elements extending within the elongated shaft for respectively actuating the controllably bendable sections, and an instrument coupler mounted to the proximal end of the elongated shaft, with the instrument coupler configured for coupling an electromechanical drive to the actuation elements. A robotic medical system comprises the previously described medical instrument assembly, a user interface configured for generating at least one command, a drive unit coupled to the plurality of actuating elements of the medical instrument assembly, and an electric controller configured, in response to the command(s), for directing the drive unit to moves the actuating elements to actuate the controllably bendable sections.
US07854737B2 Instrument and associated method of trailing for modular hip stems
A trial (100) for use in performing joint arthroplasty is provided. The trial (100) fits to a cavity (103) in the canal (105) of a long bone (107) and assists in the performing of a trial reduction in performing joint arthroplasty. The trial (100) includes a stem portion (102) and a neck portion (104) fixedly connected to the stem portion (102) in a plurality of selectable positions with respect to the stem portion (102).
US07854732B2 Fluid medication delivery device
A fluid delivery device is provided for transdermal delivery of fluid medications to patients. The device can comprise a thin envelope which is applied to a patient's skin. The envelope can comprise at least one diffusion layer coupled to at least one impermeable layer such that at least one chamber can exist therebetween. Other embodiments can include internal diffusion layers, and thus can possess additional chambers, as well. The impermeable layer can comprise a top surface of the device. A valve positioned in the impermeable layer can facilitate filling the device with fluid, as well as connection of the device to external fluid sources such as an intravenous bag, pump, or other external fluid delivery system. The diffusion layer can comprise a coiled wire member to control the rate of fluid flow from the device to the patient's skin.
US07854727B2 Adjustable device delivery system
Herein are described components and use of an adjustable device delivery system including an adjustable internal door which allows angled deployment of medical devices, non-medical devices and electromagnetic radiation. In one embodiment, a slotted outer cannula is used with an inner drive cannula to guide the motion of an adjustable interior door that allows delivery of devices, such as medical instruments, at user-defined angles. The invention also provides device delivery systems that permit withdrawal of the adjustable device delivery system without disruption of a device placed therewith. The device delivery systems of the invention are provided having a steering system that permits exact control of the angle of the adjustable internal door while providing support against longitudinal forces. Also provided are embodiments of the devices of the invention comprising a locking system that provides frictional resistance to overcome unwanted displacement of the door angle and drive system when, for example, manipulation of the device delivery system during its use increases the forces applied to the door surface. The invention further provides methods for using the device delivery systems provided herein for delivering or receiving electromagnetic waves by deflection or reflection of such radiation by the adjustable internal door. The invention also provides methods for steering a device or device delivery system within a confined space.
US07854726B2 Injector
An injector that may be used to deliver radiographic contrast media and/or flushing solution into a patient's vascular system for the purposes such as obtaining enhanced diagnostic x-ray images. The injector includes a drive ram movable along its longitudinal axis, and a control system that controls operation of the injector. The control system has an enabled state that allows an injection procedure to be performed, and a disabled state that does not allow an injection procedure to be performed. The control system transitions from the disabled state to the enabled state in response to movement of the drive ram along its longitudinal axis.
US07854723B2 Needle shield assembly having hinged needle shield
A needle shield assembly including a hinged needle shield is provided. A ramp is provided in proximity to a hinge that connects the needle shield to base assembly. The ramp is preferably flexible, and, if compressed, resiliently urges the needle shield to a preferred angular position with respect to a syringe. The needle shield is movable between a fully opened position where it is canted at an angle with respect to the syringe and a closed position in which it envelops the needle. One or more locking elements are preferably provided on the needle shield for maintaining it in a locked, needle protecting position.
US07854722B2 Syringe with removable needle
A medical syringe has a needle shoot back mechanism which can be triggered to shoot the used needle back into the safety of the syringe body and is of a special design to allow the needle to be replaced without affecting the efficiency of the shoot back mechanism. A rotatable cover member is also available which is relatively large and which can be more easily gripped and turned to remove the needle from the syringe.
US07854720B2 Needle-free injection system
A needle-free injection device in which a gas cartridge or other source of pressurized gas is used to advance a piston and forcibly expel injectable fluid out through an injection orifice. When a gas cartridge is used, the gas cartridge may be moveable from an initial position to an actuating position in which gas is released to drive the injection, and a recoil inhibitor may be employed to prevent the gas cartridge from moving back to the initial position. A gas cartridge seal may be disposed on the gas cartridge and moveable with the gas cartridge to seal the gas cartridge against an interior wall of a gas cartridge housing. The needle-free injection device may also be configured so that sealing is compromised upon full advancement of the piston, so as to de-pressurize the device after delivery of an injection.
US07854715B2 Walk supporting device
A walk supporting device includes a seating member on which a user is seated in a straddling manner and a pair of left and right leg links that support the seating member from below. Each of the leg links is coupled to the seating member to freely swing in a horizontal direction. The seating member is prevented from rolling around a support shaft serving as a swing fulcrum in the horizontal direction of the leg link to improve stability in the horizontal direction of the seating member. A stopper member coupled to the seating member is inserted between joint sections at upper ends of left and right leg links supported by the support shaft. A regulating mechanism that regulates the seating member in a posture orthogonal to an equiangular bisector of an angle in the horizontal direction formed by the left and right leg links may be provided.
US07854709B2 Muscle stimulation and massage apparatus
A muscle stimulation and massage apparatus is provided that includes (a) a foot plate which is provided with rollers or skids, (b) a column arranged perpendicularly on the foot plate, and (c) a vibration unit that is arranged on a lift, wherein the lift may travel on guide rails of the column and is fastened in a lockable manner at different heights, with the vibration unit being located on a side outside the region of the column. In one embodiment, the lift may continuously travel up and down over a predetermined height range for a period of time in a programmed manner.
US07854705B2 Ex vivo verification of biopsy tissue samples
An instrument for verification of presence of image enhancing, contrasting agent in a biopsy sample which was obtained by imaging the lesion area with an imaging modality which is sensitive to the contrasting agent. In one embodiment of the invention, an optical spectrometer is used to analyze biopsy samples for the presence of gadolinium enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging contrasting agent which typically pools in breast tumors.
US07854702B2 Phase selection for cardiac contrast assessment
In one embodiment, at least one visual characteristic from a selected image is used to automatically select an ultrasound image from a set of images from a plurality of heart cycles. In another embodiment, motion correction is performed on ultrasound images that are automatically selected from a plurality of ultrasound images associated with the same phase of the heart cycle. In yet another embodiment, ultrasound images are automatically selected from a set of images based on a time interval that is within a tolerance range from a reference phase of the heart cycle. In another embodiment, a stored user-preference of a phase of the heart cycle is used to automatically select an ultrasound image from a set of images. In yet another embodiment, a user-defined region of interest is placed on an ultrasound image associated with a selected phase of a heart cycle.
US07854695B2 Exercise and therapeutic apparatus
In its preferred form the invention provides adjustable stretching apparatus for stretching the back, shoulders, and/or the neck, in order to assist with postural and vertebral alignment. A preferred apparatus includes a seat, a headrest positioned above and behind the seat, and a convexly curved reasonbly hard, rigid form separating the seat and headrest. The curved form includes a longitudinal channel defined between two ridges, within which channel the spine is supported when in use. The support is preferably rigid. Provision of legs to raise the apparatus above the ground, and provision of varable head rests and seat, greatly improve the applicability of the apparatus in amelioration of a variety of postural and vertebral alignment problems.
US07854693B2 Selectorized dumbbell having shock absorbing system comprising flexible and resilient rails in the weights
A selectorized dumbbell has a handle that can be inserted into a gap between stacks of nested left and right weight plates. A selector determines how many left weight plates are coupled to the left end of the handle and how many right weight plates are coupled to the right end of the handle. Each weight plate is held between a pair of flexible arms on a forked carrier. The arms allow the weight plates to deflect out of a normal, substantially upright, orientation if an impact shock is delivered to the dumbbell. The arms are restored to their normal orientation once the impact shock dissipates. Alternatively, the weight plates may comprise a metallic inner weight plate covered with an elastomer encasement and with an integral elastomer lug attaching the weight plates to at least one interconnecting member. The selector may comprise a connecting pin with at least one flexible shock absorbing prong.
US07854688B2 Collapsible play structures
A collapsible play structure has a coiled wire supporting a covering which is attached to the wire to define an interior tunnel-like passageway, and at least one opening provided in the covering. A basketball goal assembly can be attached to a first end of the coiled wire and covering. In addition, openings can be provided in the covering.
US07854682B2 Transmission shifting responsive to borderline knock limits
A method for operating an engine and transmission in a vehicle is described. The method comprises up-shifting the transmission based on whether engine knock limits spark advance at engine conditions after the up-shift. Further, the method may include accounting for differences in fuel types, and their effects on engine knock in future gears.
US07854673B2 Bicycle sprocket assembly having a reinforcement member coupled between sprockets
A bicycle sprocket assembly includes a first sprocket, a second sprocket and at least one reinforcement member. The first sprocket includes a first main body and a first chain engagement portion. The second sprocket includes a second main body and a second chain engagement portion. The reinforcement member is coupled between the sprockets. Preferably, the reinforcement member is disposed in first and second apertures of the first and second sprockets at a radial location spaced radially outwardly of first and second inner end portions of the first and second sprockets. Preferably, a spacer is disposed between the first and second sprockets radially inwardly of the reinforcement member. The reinforcement member is preferably installable in the first and second apertures by a sliding movement generally perpendicular to a rotation axis of the first and second sprockets.
US07854668B2 Laser ball shooting aid
A signal projecting device wearable on an athlete about to throw a projectile, such as shooting a basketball. The device incorporates a leveling sensor arranged to provide an input signal to the projecting device so that a signal indicative of a body part on which the projecting device is mounted being horizontal with respect to a floor or ground surface. The projecting device may project a generally cruciform light beam of one characteristic, such as color or light pattern, when the horizontal condition is sensed. A second light beam of a different characteristic may be projected when the horizontal condition is not sensed.
US07854665B2 Golf club head
A golf club head designed to act under impact load as a bridge comprising a face; an inertial support system; a rear structure; and a force transfer system, under impact load the force transfer system, in cooperation with the inertial support system, elongating the rear structure and controlling the bending of the face, the pattern of bending of the face being a substantially bridge-like pattern of bending or a substantially modified bridge-like pattern of bending.
US07854664B1 Golf club supporting accessory
The golf club supporting accessory that supports a golf club when not in use and includes a cigar holder, towel holder, and Velcro strip for hanging a glove. The golf club supporting accessory has a stake as the main frame, which is struck into the ground. The supporting member is a hook that enables the grip of a golf club to rest upon.
US07854661B2 Giant wheel
A structure of a giant wheel is disclosed. The giant wheel includes a ring steel tracks, motors, an inner wheel and an outer wheel. The ring steel track has a crossed base and stoppers positioned at four corners of the crossed base. The stopper and the base form an inner groove and an outer groove with openings. The motors are positioned at an inner side and an outer side of the ring steel track, and have latches to fit through the openings, and the latches have rollers positioned in the groove. The inner wheel has bars at two outer sides connecting to the motors positioned at an inner side of the ring steel track. The outer wheel has pillars having joint portions at a distal end positioned towards the motor, wherein the joint portions of the pillars are connected to the motor positioned at an outer side of the ring steel track.
US07854654B2 Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards
A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines and a plurality of bonus awards. The central server monitors wagers on the gaming machines. Based at least in part on the wagers the central server determines when bonus events will occur and which gaming machine(s) will provide the bonus awards. In one embodiment, the central server determines which gaming machine will provide a primary bonus award and any secondary bonus awards. In one embodiment, the number of secondary bonus awards is determined based on the number of active gaming machines. The selected gaming machine then determines a component of or the amount of the bonus award to be provided to the gaming machine selected by the central server.
US07854641B2 Hand held reversible air game callers
Wild game calls comprising combinations of main housings, mouthpieces, lids, bellows, pitch adjusters, air chambers, adjustable seals, and air-activated sound-producing members, used for attracting wild game.
US07854637B2 Multiple venturi nozzle system for watercraft
The present invention is directed to a multiple propeller nozzle Venturi system and assembly consisting of two or more hydrodynamically shaped nozzle rings, axially located around the propeller and connected by the means of a plurality of equally spaced ring connecting fin struts to be used on a wide variety of sizes of watercrafts. By adjusting the conical inclination of one or more of the hydronamically shaped nozzle rings the water passing over is directed into the area of the propeller increasing the thrust pressure, thereby creating a Venturi effect. A skeg shield and a skid plate are incorporated to strengthen, or repair if broken, the lower portion of outboard and inboard-outboard motors. The overall effect of the multiple nozzle Venturi system is to enhance the performance, handling and control of a watercraft so equipped. Multiple nozzle Venturi systems are constructed to be adaptable to all sizes of vessels and all motors found on watercraft.
US07854626B2 Connection structure for small diameter shielded cable
A shielded cable connection structure includes a plurality of shielded cables. Each of the shielded cables has a center conductor, a shielding conductor, and an insulative jacket. A metal grounding member has at least two rows of mutually parallel substantially comb shaped teeth. The comb shaped teeth in each of the rows have a wire receiving portion formed there between that receives at least one of the shielded cables. A holding member mates with the metal grounding member to clamp the shielded cables between the metal grounding member and the holding member. The center conductor is directly clamped by the comb shaped teeth in one of the rows, and the shielding conductor is clamped through the insulative jacket by the comb shaped teeth in the other row.
US07854622B1 Electrical connecting device
The present invention discloses an electrical connecting device adapted to receive a chip unit. The electrical connecting device includes an insulation base, a terminal set, a circuit board, a cover and a driving mechanism. The insulation base is formed with a terminal area and a first pierced hole. The terminal set is disposed correspondingly in the terminal area. The circuit board is disposed under the insulation base. The circuit board is formed with a pad area, which is disposed correspondingly to and under the terminal area for the terminal set to be soldered on. The circuit board is formed with a through hole corresponding to the first pierced hole. The cover is horizontally and slidably covering the insulation base. The driving mechanism at least has a metal bushing covered into the first pierced hole and the through hole. The driving mechanism further has a cam, which has a driven portion extending to form a first cylinder into the first pierced hole. The first cylinder is jointed into the metal bushing correspondingly. A second cylinder which is off-centered with respect to the first cylinder is formed between the driven portion and the first cylinder and entering the second pierced hole.
US07854614B2 Multi-contact universally jointed power and/or signal connector devices
An adjustable at least four-way electrical connector for signal, power, voice and/or data communication, comprising at least four adjustable electrical connections utilizing a ball and socket type physical connection device and including a weatherproofing gasket; also an adjustable fiber optic connection device utilizing ball and socket type construction wherein an optical fiber can be split into a plurality of optical fibers via a connection device providing for rotation and pivoting.
US07854612B2 Anatomical model
An anatomical model comprising: an inner lumen; and an outer lumen, wherein the inner lumen is disposed inside of the outer lumen so as to create a space therebetween; and further wherein a fluid is disposed within the space, interior to the outer lumen and exterior to the inner lumen, whereby the inner lumen can accurately simulate the mucous membrane lining a mammalian tract.
US07854608B2 Method and apparatus for heat treatment in a fluidized bed
The present invention relates to a method for the heat treatment of fine-grained solids, in particular gypsum, in which the solids are heated to a temperature of 50 to 1000° C. in a fluidized bed reactor (1), and to a corresponding plant. To improve the energy utilization, it is proposed to introduce a first gas or gas mixture from below through a preferably central gas supply tube (3) into a mixing chamber (21) of the reactor (1), the gas supply tube (3) being at least partly surrounded by a stationary annular fluidized bed (2) which is fluidized by supplying fluidizing gas, and to adjust the gas velocities of the first gas or gas mixture as well as of the fluidizing gas for the annular fluidized bed (2) such that the particle Froude numbers in the gas supply tube (3) are between 1 and 100, in the annular fluidized bed (2) between 0.02 and 2 and in the mixing chamber (21) between 0.3 and 30.
US07854596B2 System and method of operation of multiple screw compressors with continuously variable speed to provide noise cancellation
A system for cancelling or attenuating noise in at least two positive displacement compressors proximately located from each other for use with a heating or cooling system. A lead compressor and a lag compressor have a controllable rotational speed and phase of operation. A controller selectably controls the rotational speed and the phase of operation of each of the compressors. The controller controls the rotational speed of the compressors at substantially the same speed for each compressor, with a phase-lock loop and a comparator circuit for each compressor. The controller controls the phase of operation of the compressors through an oscillator so that the lead and lag compressor pressure pulses are spaced between successive outlet pressure pulses to effectively double the combined pulsation frequency for noise attenuation.
US07854587B2 Centrifugal compressor and dry gas seal system for use in it
The present invention relates to a centrifugal compressor using a dry gas seal system for protecting seal means. A multistage centrifugal compressor has primary dry gas seal means for preventing leakage of working gas from a machine inner side, and secondary dry gas seal means for backing up the first dry gas seal means. A seal gas line for introducing the gas leaked from the first and second dry gas seal means to the outside of the machine is installed between the primary dry gas seal means and the secondary dry gas seal means. The gas seal line has an orifice and a check valve, and buffer means is installed between the orifice and the check valve.
US07854577B2 Freight container
The freight container is constructed with relatively thin sidewalls of relatively high-strength steel, permitting thinner corrugations. This results in a greater internal width for the container, while still having an external width not exceeding the nominal 102″ or 2.6 meter national and international standards. By forming the sidewalls of sufficiently high strength materials, the sidewalls may be constructed to have a thickness not exceeding one inch each, thereby providing a nominal internal width of 100″ for the container. This permits the placement of U.S. standard pallets having lengths and widths of 56×44 inches in an alternating array, with each pallet group forming a square of 100″ on a side. In this manner, a total of twenty-four pallets may be placed within the freight container.
US07854576B2 Wheelchair passenger station
A rear facing wheelchair passenger station for securing a wheelchair in a large accessible transit vehicle. The station includes a forward excursion barrier for preventing forward movement of a wheelchair, lateral excursion barriers for preventing undesired lateral and rearward movement of the wheelchair, wall side flip seats which are adapted to covert the wheelchair passenger station for use by non-wheelchair persons, hand holds, high friction floor material for assisting in the prevention of movement of the wheelchair, and an electro-pneumatic control system.
US07854574B2 Gabions
The invention provides a gabion which may be used to protect military or civilian installations from weapons assault or from elemental forces, such as flood waters, lava flows, avalanches, soil instability, slope erosion and the like, the gabion comprising side walls connected together at spaced intervals by partition walls, the side walls comprising at least one substantially closed side wall element panel, which acts in use of the gabion to prevent a gabion fill material from falling through the side wall, the said action of the substantially closed side wall element panel being effective without the aid of a gabion lining material.
US07854562B2 Internal feed manual paint brush
A manually operated internally fed paint brush having a resilient handle forming a refillable paint reservoir and a brush head with a fluid delivery path connecting the reservoir to the brush head via a siphon tube having an inlet positioned at a lowermost region of the reservoir when the paint brush is generally horizontal. A combined valve and O-ring seals an outlet of the siphon tube and selectively opens in response to compression of the reservoir. A latching mechanism retains the brush head to the handle. A trough having a spout is provided for filling the paint brush.
US07854554B1 Fiber optic transceiver within a connector assembly
A connector assembly that integrates an optical fiber connector with a fiber optic transceiver into one assembly. The optical fiber connector is provided with end float for optical connection to an optical back panel. Some components of the fiber optic transceiver are mounted on the optical fiber connector and float with the connector. Other components of the fiber optic transceiver are mounted in static positions on a circuit card assembly that is part of the connector assembly. A flexible circuit electrically connects the transceiver components mounted on the optical fiber connector with the static transceiver components. The connector assembly eliminates the use of a fiber pigtail, improves the ease of mounting and removal of the fiber optic transceiver from the host board, consolidates the transceiver circuitry into one assembly, and allows reduction of the host board footprint and/or provides additional space on the host board for mounting other components.
US07854550B2 Intelligent illumination thermometer
A thermometer includes an illuminated display, which may act as an intelligent indicator of the change and level of temperature. The thermometer includes memory unit accommodating multiple users and their past records respectively. When a new temperature reading is obtained, the thermometer compares the new temperature against the immediate preceding record of the same user. The thermometer further includes a display module indicating the change of temperature reading and the fever status of the user.
US07854535B2 Ceramic packaging for high brightness LED devices
Embodiments of the present invention include a light emitting diode package comprising a ceramic cavity comprising a substrate for mounting a light emitting diode and substantially vertical sidewalls for reducing light leakage. The ceramic LED package further includes a metallic coating on a portion of the ceramic substrate for reflecting light in a predetermined direction.
US07854513B2 One-way transparent display systems
A display system includes a projection screen and a projector. The projection screen includes a retarder plate between a polarizer and a transparent screen. The projector projects an image through the polarizer and the retarder plate onto the transparent screen. The image is visible from a first side of the transparent screen but invisible from a second side of the transparent screen because any light passing twice through the retarder plate is blocked by the polarizer.
US07854502B2 Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus comprises rollers, an endless conveyor belt, a nip roller, and an ink-jet head. The endless conveyor belt is stretched between the rollers. The nip roller cooperates with an outer surface of the conveyor belt to sandwich a recording medium. The ink-jet head has nozzles from which ink is ejected to the recording medium that is conveyed in a predetermined conveyance direction by the conveyor belt. The conveyor belt has a base member, an elastic layer formed on an outer surface of the base member, and an adhesive layer formed on an outer surface of the elastic layer and holding thereon the recording medium. The elastic layer deforms in its thickness direction when the recording medium is sandwiched between the adhesive layer and the nip roller.
US07854499B2 Liquid housing container
The present invention provides a liquid housing container that enables an increase in the channel cross section of a connection portion of a liquid channel that allows a liquid housing chamber to communicate with an exterior, allowing pressure loss to be minimized. A supply needle 107 is pushed into a liquid housing container to move, to an open position, a valve 102A. With the valve 102A remaining in the open position, the supply needle 107 is pushed back and held separate from the valve 102A. Subsequently, the supply needle 107 is pushed into the liquid container again to move the valve 102A to a closed position. Even when the supply needle 107 is removed from the liquid housing container, the valve 102A is held in the closed position.
US07854493B2 Method of manufacturing inkjet printhead and inkjet printhead manufactured using the method
A method of manufacturing an inkjet printhead, including forming a nozzle layer by radiating actinic radiation to a cross-linked polymer resist composition including a precursor polymer, a cationic photoinitiator, and a solvent, in which a concentration of the cationic photoinitiator is varied to control a tapered angle of a nozzle included in the nozzle layer.
US07854486B2 Container equipped on vehicle
A container includes a drawer that can be held at an intermediately open position and can be easily moved to the fully open position. A container includes a drawer for accommodating a small article, an accommodation case for accommodating the drawer for horizontal sliding movement, and an intermediately open stopping mechanism for stopping the drawer at an intermediate position once when the drawer is pulled out toward the passenger side. The intermediately open stopping mechanism includes an arm member provided on the drawer and having a pin-like projection at a tip end thereof, and a groove group provided and extending on the accommodation case for guiding the pin-like projection. The groove group includes a plurality of guide grooves including a blind alley portion for stopping the pin-like projection at the intermediately open position once.
US07854475B2 Sliding roof
The present invention provides a sliding roof for a vehicle including a plurality of roof panels separately mounted on an opening of a fixed roof of the vehicle in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, a guide frame attached at a lower portion of each side edge of the opening, and an anchor installed into the guide frame to engage with at least part of the roof panel, so as to assist open-close operations of the plurality of the roof panels in the vicinity of a closed state thereof. Sliding of sliders attached to the each guide frame allows the plurality of the roof panels to open or close in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle. The sliding roof for a vehicle further includes a guide member installed into the guide frame to guide a movement of engagement portions of the plurality of the roof panels adjacent in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The anchor and the guide member are installed into an identical groove formed on the guide frame.
US07854474B2 Reinforcing brace
A reinforcing brace is disclosed. The reinforcing brace supports a collar of a fastener. In addition, the reinforcing brace is configured to strengthen the connection between a frame rail and a cross member. By aligning side walls of the reinforcing brace with walls of the cross member, the reinforcing brace can continue the walls of the cross member through the frame rail to strengthen the connection between the frame rail and the cross member.
US07854465B2 Tarp enclosure system
A retractable tarpaulin cover system includes a tarp cover, plural spaced substantially U-shaped bows supporting and connected to the tarp cover, movable carriages operably connected to lower ends of each bow, a tensioning mechanism which moves an end one of said bows toward an endmost position thereof to tension the tarp cover in an expanded position of the cover, and a tension distributing mechanism which distributes the tension of the tarp cover between the end bow and another of said bows adjacent to said end bow. The tension distributing mechanism includes a collapsible brace interconnected between the end and adjacent bows.
US07854459B2 Automotive interior bamboo trim structures
The present invention provides a variety of interior trim structures for use within a passenger compartment of a motorized vehicle. Each interior trim structure includes a structure body configured to attach to the vehicle. The structure body has at least one exterior wall that is visible to occupants of the passenger compartment. At least a portion of the visible wall is fabricated entirely from a segment of natural bamboo stalk. In one embodiment, the segment is a one-piece, monolithic ring of natural bamboo. Alternatively, the segment can be fabricated as a trim panel that is formed from a plurality of precut natural bamboo slats. The interior trim structure can be configured as a storage receptacle, electronic dial, instrument cluster gauge fixture, storage compartment lid, or cosmetic trim panel.
US07854456B2 Dual rod gripper
A gripper assembly has an extended position and a retracted position. The gripper assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw that are each coupled for movement of a range of motion. The range of motion of each of the first jaw and the second jaw is independently adjustable from the range of motion of the other of the first jaw and the second jaw.
US07854444B2 Convertible utility cart
A convertible cart capable of being converted into a Bellman luggage cart, platform cart, or dolly cart. The convertible cart includes: (a) a platform having a third width, W3, (b) a first frame having a first width, W1, detachably coupled to the platform at a first position, (c) a second frame having a second width, W2, detachably coupled to the platform at a second position apart from the first position, (d) first coupling connector configured to detachably engage the first and second frame, respectively, with the platform, (e) a third frame having two ends detachably coupled to the first and second frame, respectively, (f) second coupling connector means detachably engage the third frame with the first and the second frame, respectively, and (g) a plurality of wheels operable mounted to the platform, in which W3>W2>W1.
US07854441B2 Bicycle drop out
A bicycle drop out comprising a seat stay mount having a first receiving portion, a chain stay mount having a second receiving portion, a back plate releasably connected to the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount, the back plate comprising a first member for engaging the first receiving portion and a second member for engaging the second receiving portion, the back plate comprising a third slot for receiving an axle, the slot cooperatively disposed between the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount, and the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount having a gap therebetween for receiving a belt.
US07854437B2 Vehicle conversion assembly and method of converting a vehicle
A conversion assembly for enabling or improving wheelchair accessibility to a front-wheel-drive vehicle, wherein said assembly comprises rear suspension mountings for fixing to the structure of the vehicle in place of an existing rear suspension such that a portion of a floorpan of the vehicle of sufficient width to accommodate the width of a wheelchair can be lowered between said rear suspension mountings. A method of converting a front-wheel-drive vehicle to enable or improve wheelchair accessibility to the vehicle, the method including the steps of removing an existing rear suspension from the vehicle, installing rear suspension mountings to the vehicle, one at each side of the structure of the vehicle, and lowering a portion of the floorpan of the vehicle between said rear suspension mountings.
US07854424B1 Sectional fence assembly
A sectional fence assembly having a coupling device with a loop, disposed at an angle relative to the body of the fence section is disposed on one side of the fence section body and a hook is disposed on the opposing side of the fence section body. A plurality of such fence sections may be coupled in series.
US07854420B2 Mounting clip and system for attaching objects to a computer monitor
Embodiments of mounting clips are described. One such embodiment of a mounting clip for attaching an object, device, or portion of a device to a computer monitor comprises a main body. At least one hook-shaped rib is coupled to the main body. The at least one rib is removably insertable within an opening in the computer monitor. A foot, coupled to the main body, contacts an exterior surface of the computer monitor while the at least one rib is inserted within the opening. A holder receptacle is coupled to the main body and provides a mating point for coupling an object to the mounting clip.
US07854413B2 Installing structure of wire harness
An installing structure of a wire harness includes a link which has an end portion and is pivotally connected to a mating member by a shaft portion provided on the end portion. The wire harness extended from the mating member is installed along the link. A guide portion is provided at the end portion of the link. A slider for holding the wire harness is slidably engaged in the guide portion.
US07854412B2 Energy-efficient electro-thermal and electro-mechanical ice-protection method
A region of an airfoil to be protected from accreted ice is heated to reduce the strength of the bond between the ice and the airfoil, and is mechanically deformed to shed the accreted ice after the bond has been sufficiently weakened. Heating ceases before substantial water runback is generated. The mechanical deformation and the cessation of heating occur approximately simultaneously.
US07854410B2 Powered unmanned aerial vehicle
An unmanned aerial vehicle mounts a payload section to an air delivery vehicle. The air delivery vehicle includes deployable wings and tail fins for gliding or powered flight. A set of propeller blades are provided for powered flight. The propeller blades are mounted for movement from a stowed position to deployed position extending radially from the fuselage for powered flight.
US07854408B2 Double spread-head carousel winder
A carousel coiler with two coilers, which are mounted in a rotatable rotor, are rotatably driven independently of each other, are intended for the successive, continuous winding of metal strip and each have spray heads, which comprise a number of segments that can be moved in a spreading manner, are supported on axially displaceable wedge-shaped directing surfaces and on which the coilers can be cyclically moved in each case from a starting position into a strip-coil transfer position by turning of the rotor, is to be developed in such a way that a pivot-into-place outside bearing becomes superfluous, that the coil or the coil to be wound is always supported on both sides in every position, and that the carousel coiler can be used both for winding up and unwinding coils. For this purpose, it is proposed that the rotor comprises two rotor discs (2, 2′), which are opposite each other and connected to each other by at least one hollow cross-member (3) and that the rotor carries at least two double spray-head coilers.
US07854407B2 Low-profile housing for an impact crushing apparatus
The present invention provides an impact crushing apparatus that includes a housing, a chamber defined within the housing, a rotor assembly for receiving material and throwing the material radially outward, and a plurality of anvils positioned around the rotor assembly and configured to break apart the material. The rotor assembly is driven by a drive unit, which is coupled to a shaft. A bearing cartridge encircles the shaft, and the bearing cartridge and drive unit are disposed outside the chamber.
US07854401B2 Faucet wand
A faucet wand includes a waterway having a body with a cavity therein. A plate is attached to the body to cover the cavity and form a conduit in the waterway.
US07854397B2 Long throw shotcrete nozzle
An improved apparatus for the gunning of a material is provided having a nozzle with an inner passage defined by an inner tubular member having an inlet end into which a wetted material is to be introduced and an outlet end from which the material is to be sprayed. An outer tubular member is disposed around the inner tubular member defining an outer passage between the inner and outer tubular members. A compressed gas is passed through the outer passage and impinged on the wetted material exiting the inner passage to better control the spray pattern of the wetted material. The inner tubular member extends out beyond the outlet end of the outer tubular member and the inner surface of the outer tubular member and the outer surface of the inner tubular member near the outlet end are chamfered to provide an optimal attitude for the impinging air.
US07854395B1 Rocket combustion chamber with jacket
The present invention relates to rocket engine combustion chambers, and more particularly to an improved rocket engine combustion chamber having a jacket. In some embodiments, a combustion system for a rocket engine includes an injector, a cylindrical combustion chamber, and a jacket coupled to the combustion chamber and to the injector. The combustion chamber can expand axially and/or radially with respect to the jacket. The outer surface of the combustion chamber includes a plurality of flow channels. One or more piston seals and/or bellows can be included to allow axial expansion of the combustion chamber with respect to the jacket. A gap formed between the inner surface of the jacket and the outer surface of the combustion chamber allows for radial expansion of the combustion chamber with respect to the jacket.
US07854394B2 Timed aerosol fragrance dispenser for forced-air duct installation
A timed aerosol fragrance dispenser includes a housing containing a programmable microprocessor, a low-voltage DC power source, a piezoelectric assembly for spraying timed bursts of fragrance, and circuitry for activating the piezoelectric assembly, and a magnetic reed switch air flow detector. A fragrance-containing reservoir attaches to the housing, which incorporates a clip which allows the dispenser to be secured to a heating and air conditioning vent register. When the air flow detector senses air flow from the vent register, the microcontroller in combination with other circuitry generates current pulses having a voltage sufficiently high to activate the piezoelectric assembly. Intervals between pulses are switch selectable. In addition, the normal programming can be overridden to spray fragrance for a set period even in the absence of air flow from the vent register.
US07854390B2 Expansion valve, heat pump type refrigeration cycle apparatus, and air handling unit
A first expansion valve may be provided in an outdoor unit, and a second expansion valve may be provided in an indoor unit. A pipe line connects a first joint pipe of the first expansion valve and a second joint pipe of the second expansion valve. When a refrigerant flows in from the second joint pipe and flows out from the first joint pipe, the first and second expansion valves are in a full open state due to pressure of the refrigerant. When the refrigerant flows in from the first joint pipe and flows out from the second joint pipe, the first and second expansion valves are in semi-closed state (flow rate controlling state). In a cooling mode, the second expansion valve expands the refrigerant just before an indoor heat exchanger, and in a heating mode, the first expansion valve expands the refrigerant just before an outdoor heat exchanger. In both heating and cooling modes, a large amount of refrigerant may flow through the pipe line to reduce pressure loss.
US07854383B2 Image forming apparatus, and image forming method
An image forming apparatus has a generating unit that generates an identifier image according to a print command received from an outside and an image forming unit that forms, on a recording medium, an image based on the print command and the identifier image generated.
US07854377B2 Data collection system
A data collection system includes: a contact information acquisition unit, for obtaining contact information; a state recognition unit, for obtaining, based on contact information acquired by the contact information acquisition unit, state information concerning the state of a equipment; a state coding unit, for transforming into coded contact associated information the state information obtained by the state recognition unit; and an output unit, for transmitting to an output apparatus contact information obtained by the contact information acquisition unit and for transmitting to a network apparatus contact associated information obtained by the state coding unit. With this arrangement, information concerning the operation of a equipment can be easily obtained, without requiring the reconstruction of a equipment or a great change in a sequence program, such as a programmable controller, mounted in the equipment.
US07854366B2 Method of mounting conductive ball and conductive ball mounting apparatus
A method of mounting a conductive ball according to the present invention includes the steps of, disposing a mask on a substrate including connection pads, the mask having opening portions corresponding to the connection pad, supplying conductive balls on the mask, arranging the conductive balls on the connection pad of the substrate through the opening portions of the mask by moving the conductive balls to one end side of the mask by ball moving member (a brush), and removing excess conductive balls remaining on a region of the mask where the opening portions are provided, by bonding the excess conductive balls to a ball removal film (adhesive film).
US07854361B2 Method and facility for assembling components of a vehicle body
The assembly of body components using a geometry box (1) and clamping frames (7, 8) is described. At least for the larger components (9, 10), in particular the side wall parts of the body, a multipart clamping frame (8a, 8b) is used. The component (9, 10) is grasped and fed to the geometry box (1) using one clamping frame part, while the other clamping frame part is fed empty. Using both clamping frame parts, the component (9, 10) is then fixed precisely in position using positioning and fixing units acting between the geometry box (1) and the clamping frame (7, 8) in such a way that the components (6, 9, 10) to be connected to one another may be connected to one another, in particular welded.
US07854356B2 Cap for an aerosol container or a spray container
A spray cap, also known as an actuator overcap for an aerosol container, has an acoustic seal between the actuator button and the overcap. This acoustic seal is formed by a set of matching sealing lips on the actuator button and also on the overcap, such that they are both oriented horizontally. At rest, the sealing lip of the actuator button rests above the sealing lip of the overcap, but during actuation, the sealing lip of the actuator button deforms the sealing lip of the overcap, which both forms an acoustic seal during actuation and creates the force to return the sealing lip of the actuator button back to its original position after actuation is complete.
US07854351B2 Intercalated locking ring
The invention concerns a device for locking an axially mobile actuating and freely rotating head of a pump whereof the body is mounted on the neck of a reservoir of liquid product via a connecting socket. The invention is characterized in that it comprises an intercalated ring mounted on top of the pump body and whereof the inner side wall is provided with at least one longitudinal guiding groove capable of receiving, through rotation of the head, at least one rib bone by an inner coaxial sleeve integral with the head.
US07854340B1 Stackable storage containers with connecting latches
A modular storage container for articles according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a floor panel, a plurality of stackable side walls constructed and arranged to be connectable to the floor panel, a plurality of stackable end walls constructed and arranged to be connectable to the floor panel, and a plurality of stackable corner members constructed and arranged to be connectable adjacent one edge to a side wall and adjacent an opposite edge to an end wall, wherein each side wall and each end wall defining a wall end opening and each corner member having a mounting hole surrounded by a cylindrical boss, each cylindrical boss being constructed and arranged to fit within a corresponding wall end opening.
US07854336B2 Beverage dispenser having an airtight valve and seal
A beverage dispenser includes a container defining a container volume, and a substantially spill-proof cap, having a suction portion and an aperture on top of the suction portion, coupled to the container. A valve with a slit is inserted between the container and cap so that the slit is placed beneath the aperture of the cap. A pressure sensitive seal is placed on top of the aperture of the cap, so that a vacuum is created between the cap and the beverage inside the container. The slit is formed so that the beverage will flow through the slit of the valve and thus out of the aperture of the cap only if a suction force is applied on the suction portion of the cap 20.
US07854323B2 Insert for container packaging
A container insert for taking up extra space may be placed in a container intended for storage and/or shipment of material to an end user. The insert may be generally longitudinal having a helical configuration that may be expanded and constricted for taking up different volumes of space within the container respective of the amount of material stored therein. The insert may also be elastically deformable or generally pliable and may absorb impact forces for preventing or minimizing damage to the material.
US07854322B2 Facilitated fast-opening packaging of plaster and method of manufacturing
The present invention refers to a fast-opening plaster packaging comprising a plaster having at least an adhesive support protected with at least two films (P1, P2) made of protective material and detachable from the adhesive support, and an envelope (E) suitable for containing the plaster. The envelope has at least two portions (E1, E2) mutually dividable and each dividable portion of the envelope is anchored to at least one of the protective films (P1, P2). The packaging is characterized in that at least one of the protective films (P1, P2) has at least a cut (I1, I2) suitable for shaping one or more columns and one or more arcades (LA) or semi-arcades. The column(s) is(are) joined to the corresponding semi-wrapper (E1) at anchoring line (C1) of the protective film (P1) and is(are) able, upon pulling at least one of the portions (E1) of the envelope (E), to fold onto itself(themselves) as such one or more arcades or semi-arcades (LA) made of protective material are substantially not involved into folding.
US07854309B2 Value medium processing device for IC coins and monetary coins
A valve medium processing device for IC coins and coins includes a housing having an insertion slot with an IC coin passage connected to receive IC coins from the insertion slot. A coin passage is also connected to receive coins from the insertion slot. A retaining unit for IC coins selectively stops and releases an IC coin, so that a read and/or write unit can establish a value for the IC coin. An IC coin allocating unit is positioned downstream in the IC coin passage for directing an IC coin to one of an IC coin storage passage and a retain passage. A coin allocating unit allocates a coin to one of a coin storage passage and the return passage.
US07854308B2 Flipping apparatus
An exemplary flipping apparatus includes a slider, a flipping member and a holding table. The slider is slanted relative to the horizon. A first end of the flipping member is connected to the slider. The flipping member includes a first flipping plate and a second flipping plate facing the first flipping plate. The first flipping plate and the second flipping plate are contoured to define a workplace groove to receive a workpiece to be flipped. An angle defined by the slider and an end section of the first flipping plate opposite to the slider is less than an angle between the slider and the horizon. The holding table is connected to a second end of the flipping member, and the second end is opposite to that of the first end of the flipping member.
US07854307B2 Electromagnetically actuated viscous clutch
A valve assembly (106) for an electromagnetically actuated viscous clutch (100) includes a cover plate (140) defining a seating portion configured to selectively cover an opening (138) from a reservoir (112), a flexible mounting plate (142), and an armature (144) that is movable in response to applied magnetic flux to move the cover plate (140) relative to the opening (138) from the reservoir (112). The armature (144) includes a base portion (146) connected to the cover plate (140) and the mounting plate (142), and a finger (148) extending from the base portion (146). The finger (148) and the base portion (146) define a path for conducting magnetic flux.
US07854304B2 Method and device for power supply to an electric motor vehicle
Method of producing a plasma conductor in air with the aid of a femtosecond high-frequency pulsing and high-repetition rate laser. The plasma is used for transmitting a current between an electric or catenary wire supplying a vehicle such as a train and an electric contact, for example a pantograph arm disposed on a moving vehicle and connected to a power distribution system thereof. The plasma is in contact with the electric or catenary wire and with an electric contact.
US07854302B2 Apparatus for mounting a hub brake to a bicycle frame
A bicycle brake apparatus comprises a securing bracket with an axle opening dimensioned to receive a bicycle wheel hub axle therethrough, a braked member that has a braking surface and is adapted to rotate with a bicycle wheel hub rotatably supported by the hub axle, a braking member adapted to contact the braking surface, and an operating unit that selectively causes the braking member to contact the braking surface. A locking unit is structured for attachment to the securing bracket, wherein the locking unit extends in an axial direction of the hub axle and is dimensioned to nonrotatably engage the bicycle frame radially inwardly of a rotating portion of the brake apparatus.
US07854296B2 Passive secondary air muffler
A passive secondary air muffler for a small internal combustion engine. The secondary air muffler may include a venturi device and a catalytic converter. The venturi device may be in the form of a stamped sheet metal insert which, along with the outer muffler housing or shell, forms a secondary or auxiliary air intake device. The venturi device may also be formed from baffles separating an inlet chamber from an outlet chamber of the muffler. The secondary air intake device provides auxiliary or secondary air to the exhaust gas stream exiting the engine upstream of the catalytic converter to improve the efficiency of the catalytic converter. In an exemplary embodiment, the venturi device has a hemispherical cross-sectional shape or a circular cross-sectional shape taken along a plane substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow of the exhaust gas stream.
US07854288B2 Automotive fuel storage system with in-tank fuel binder system
An automotive fuel storage system includes a fuel storage tank and a binder fluid tank containing a supply of binder fluid. A mixer system connected with the binder fluid tank and the fluid storage tank mixes binder fluid throughout fuel contained within the storage tank, so as to increase the bulk viscosity of the fuel stored within the tank restricting the ability of the fuel to flow from the tank in the event of a collision of the vehicle.
US07854276B2 Methods, systems, and apparatus for production of hydrocarbons from a subterranean formation
Methods, systems, and apparatus that are suitable for use in production of hydrocarbons from subterranean heavy oil deposits employ a subterranean cavity in communication with a borehole. The cavity is preferably formed along a U-tube borehole by coiled tubing reaming operations and/or radial drilling and explosive blasting.
US07854267B2 Methods and systems to activate downhole tools with light
The present invention comprises a system and methods to actuate downhole tools by transmitting an optical signal through an optical fiber to the downhole tool. The optical signal can comprise a specific optical signal frequency, signal, wavelength or intensity. The downhole tool can comprise packers, perforating guns, flow control valves, such as sleeve valves and ball valves, samplers, sensors, pumps, screens (such as to expand), chemical cutters, plugs, detonators, or nipples.
US07854259B2 PC rod guide with rotor ridges
A rod guide is provided for use in a rotating rod string (12) for powering a progressive cavity pump (14) for pumping downhole fluids through tubing (16) to the surface. The rod guide includes a rotor sleeve (20) secured to the rod string. The rotor sleeve includes a plurality of axially spaced reduced diameter body portions 22, and a plurality of axially spaced enlarged diameter ridge portions 24. Upper and lower stop surfaces 26, 28 on the ridge portions permit axial movement of the stator sleeve with respect to the rotor sleeve. A stator sleeve (40) positioned over the rotor sleeve, and has a sleeve body (42) with a generally circular configuration with opposing circumferential ends (44, 46) spreadable to position the stator sleeve about the rotor sleeve. A plurality of ribs (48) extend outward from the stator sleeve body.
US07854255B2 Heat exchanger
In a heat exchanger in which the number of parts is small, assembling is easy, bonded portions between each part are fewer and reliability of brazing is improved, a core body is constituted by turning up and bending a strip-shaped metal plate in a fanfold manner, and first flow passages and second flow passages are formed alternately in the thickness direction. Both ends of each of the first flow passages are blocked by each comb tooth of a pair of comb-state members, and a fin is set within the second flow passages so as to constitute a core. And a cylindrical casing is fitted with the outer periphery of the core body, and the casing is constituted by a channel-state material covering three faces of the outer periphery of the core body and a lid material blocking an opening of the channel-state material. In the core body, a starting end and a terminating end of the turning-up/bending of the strip-shaped metal plate are both located on the turned-up end edge on one side, the starting end the terminating end form a fitting edge portion turned-up with the section in the U-shape conforming to the plate thickness of the channel-state material, and the end edge of the opening of the channel-state material is fitted with the fitting edge portion so as to braze/fix the both.
US07854254B2 Systems and methods for making seals in heat exchangers
Systems and methods for improving heat exchangers by implementing self-energizing seals. In one embodiment, a U-tube heat exchanger includes a shell enclosure, a tube sheet, a closure and a set of tubes welded to the tube sheet. The tube sheet separates first and second chambers from a third chamber in the shell enclosure. The closure seals the first and second chambers. Each tube extends from the first chamber, through the third chamber to the second chamber. The improvement comprises a seal between the shell enclosure and either the closure or the tube sheet. The seal includes conically tapered sealing surfaces on the shell enclosure and closure or tube sheet which form a wedge-shaped gap. A seal ring having surfaces complementary to the sealing surfaces of the shell enclosure and closure or tube sheet is positioned between the sealing surfaces to form a self-energized seal.
US07854253B2 Corrosion inhibitors, corrosion inhibiting heat transfer fluids, and the use thereof
Disclosed is a corrosion inhibitor for use in heat transfer fluids having a conductivity of less than 200 μS/cm, the corrosion inhibitor having an azole compound, and at least one of a siloxane based surfactant, colloidal silica, or a mixture thereof. Also disclosed is a corrosion inhibiting heat transfer fluid, the heat transfer fluid having a conductivity of no more than or equal to 200 μS/cm and comprising the disclosed corrosion inhibitor. Also provided is an assembly comprising an alternative power source and a heat transfer system in thermal communication with the alternative power source, the heat transfer system comprising the disclosed corrosion inhibiting heat transfer fluid. In addition, a method of making a corrosion inhibiting heat transfer fluid is disclosed wherein the disclosed corrosion inhibitor is added to heat transfer fluid having a conductivity of less than 200 μS/cm.
US07854242B2 Device for discharging tire sealant from a container
A device for discharging tire sealant (3) from a container (2), the container (2) is connectable to a closure element (1). The pressure source (6) is able to be connected to the closure element (1) and, when a positive pressure is produced in the container (2), a removal opening (12) is able to be released in order to discharge tire sealant (3) from the container (2) into a tire.
US07854241B2 Metal-clad insulating complex for a pipe
An insulating complex having a metal case and insulating material confined in a vacuum between the inner wall and the outer wall of the case and wherein each of the walls has a metal strip, at least one of which includes corrugations. An insulated pipe and a set of two coaxial pipes are also provided wherein the coaxial pipes are arranged as an inner pipe and an outer pipe, preferably undersea pipes for great depths.
US07854237B2 Fetal monitoring transducer aligning device
To better position an ultrasonic transducer typically used in non-invasive fetal monitoring during labor, the present invention consists of a transducer-aligning device having a plurality of selectively fillable chambers, each chamber having a resiliently deformable side-wall. A fluid, such as air, can be selectively pumped or released into any combination of the chambers. When coupled to an ultrasonic transducer, the selective use of air pressure in the bladder more precisely aligns and positions the fetal monitor transducer to improve imaging. In a second embodiment, the present invention includes a solid wedge-shaped protrusion extending below the bottom surface of the housing and adapted to rotate about 360-degrees to enable a care-giver to selectively position the wedge and thus align the associated transducer for optimal readings of fetal heart rate.
US07854229B2 Cradle or bed with isolation from room contamination, with controlled temperature and moisture
New bed or a new cradle model to be used specifically in hospitals, clinics and similar facilities for babies, which presents a specific laminar air flow system, with controlled temperature and moisture, for the patient desired levels, which provides reduction of the contamination on the micro environment where it is placed, allowing its use by patients under critical and delicate condition, with easy access to the patients.
US07854226B2 Powder inhaler
A powder inhaler includes a container for storing powdered medicament. A metering member has a dosing recess and is moveable between a filling position in which the dosing recess is in alignment with an opening of the container, and an inhalation position in which it is in alignment with an inhalation channel. A mouthpiece is in communication with the inhalation channel for enabling inhalation of the dose of powdered medicament when in the inhalation position. A protective member provided between the metering member and the inhalation channel is moveable between a closed position in which the protective member covers the dosing recess, thereby preventing powdered medicament contained in the dosing recess from entering the inhalation channel, and an open position in which the protective member does not cover the dosing recess, thereby exposing the dosing recess to the inhalation channel for enabling inhalation of the dose of the powdered medicament.
US07854225B2 Blister package for inhalable medicament
There is provided a blister form medicament pack comprising (a) a base sheet in which blisters are formed to define pockets therein for the containment of inhalable medicament; and (b) a lid sheet which is sealable to the base sheet except in the region of the blisters and mechanically peelable from the base sheet to enable release of said inhalable medicament. The base sheet and/or said lid sheet have a laminate structure comprising (a) a first layer of aluminum foil; and (b) a second layer of polymeric material of thickness from 10 to 60 micron, said polymeric material having a water vapor permeability of less than 0.6 g/(100 inches2) (24 hours) (mil) at 25° C.
US07854223B1 Heat exchanger for a log-burning fireplace
A heat recovery apparatus for an indoor fireplace includes a plenum chamber of low profile box-like construction having a front extremity with a portion that permits forced entry of air and a horizontally spaced portion that permits emergence of heated air. A divider wall centered within the chamber between the entry and emergence portions produces a passageway that controls the flow of air within the chamber.
US07854219B2 Portable gas powered internal combustion engine arrangement
A gas powered internal combustion engine in which the gas is provided from pressurized liquid gas in an LPG container and in which the LPG container is rigidly mounted adjacent to the internal combustion engine at a preselected angle to be in conductive heat transfer relationship to the internal combustion engine and in vibration receiving relationship to the internal combustion engine whereby the liquified gas in the LPG container is heated and the effective surface area thereof is increased.
US07854215B2 Valve train with overload features
A valve train for use in an engine is provided. The valve train includes a rocker arm assembly having a valve side arm and a cam side arm. A valve is coupled to the engine and is in contact with the valve side arm. A pushrod is reciprocatable by a camshaft and is in contact with the cam side arm. An overload feature is located on at least one of the rocker arm assembly or the pushrod. The overload feature has a reduced cross-sectional area calibrated to activate at a predefined load.
US07854214B2 Pet grooming tool with pivot head and rotatable blade
The pet grooming tool includes a handle and a head. The head consists of a lower head portion and an upper head portion. A toothed uni-directional blade is mounted on and extends from the lower head portion. The head portions are rotatably connected so that the tool can be used in either direction. The head is pivotally connected to the handle such that the angle between the blade and the handle can be adjusted.
US07854204B2 Ultralight unit load device
An ultralight unit load device has a ruggedized quadrangular composite structure with a cellular load-bearing core sealed in successive ordered-polymer stiffening plies and trimmed at the outer edges with a hollow, multi-chambered profile of lightweight material fixed with a flush attachment member so as to present a flat surface for easy loading and unloading.
US07854199B2 Printing plate registration using a camera
A method and apparatus for determining the alignment of printing plate (14) mounted on an imaging drum (12), and applying an image to a printing plate while maintaining registration and alignment between the image and a reference edge (15) of the printing plate include mounting the printing plate on a plate-making machine (10) and then determining the locations of at least two points on the reference edge. The locations of two or more points are used to determine a transformation that is applied to image data to yield transformed image data (27). The transformed image data is used to image the printing plate. A method and apparatus for determining the locations of the points using backlighting avoids errors encountered in illuminating from the top.
US07854195B2 Needle with air duct
A baler has a bale chamber and a needle movable through the bale chamber to pass a strand of twine from one side of the bale chamber to a knotter located on the opposite side, the twine being engaged by a tip of the needle. In the invention, pressurized air is directed at the needle tip. The supply of pressurized air may be discontinuous and timed to coincide only with certain phases of the needle operating cycle. The air stream avoids crop material being caught up in the knots formed by the knotter.
US07854193B2 Apparatus for preparing a beverage
The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for preparing a beverage (2) comprising a brew chamber (10) defining a volume for containing at least one container (11) with a soluble or extractable product for preparing said beverage, wherein said apparatus comprises adjustment means (12, 14) for varying the volume (V) of said brew chamber. Preferably the adjustment means include a cover member (12) with a piston portion (25). The invention also relates to a method for preparing a beverage.
US07854185B2 Ratchet pliers with adjustable jaw
A ratchet pliers with adjustable jaw includes a working head, an integrated retractable handle arrangement, a ratchet stepping arrangement and a rapid adjusting arrangement. The ratchet pliers with adjustable jaw has several advantages. Firstly, the rapid adjusting arrangement with simple operation and convenient use is capable of micro-adjusting a closure error of the jaw opening after clamping. Secondly, the integrated retractable handle arrangement is capable of adjusting a length of the handle according to different demands for a jaw clamping force so as to save energy of a user.
US07854183B2 Swage anvil for a sawblade swage assembly
A swage anvil includes a coupling portion that, when mated with a corresponding die of a swaging device, allows lateral positioning of the swage anvil (i.e., substantially parallel to a long axis of the saw blade) relative to the long axis of the saw blade. The swage anvil also includes a tooth contact face that substantially mirrors an angle of the back portion of each tooth of the saw blade. As such, after a manufacturer inserts the swage anvil into the swage device and laterally translates the swage anvil, the tooth contact face abuts the back portion of the saw blade tooth to support the tooth during a swaging procedure. With the aforementioned configuration of the swage anvil, translation of the swage anvil along a single axis provides support to the back portion of the saw blade tooth along two axes. As such, use of the swage anvil decreases the set-up time required in conventional swaging devices.
US07854178B2 Straddle-type four wheeled vehicle
A straddle-type four wheeled vehicle according to the present invention includes: a gear-type transmission capable of switching forward/backward traveling gears; a change drum, which is disposed substantially in parallel to a crankshaft of an engine and is turned at every predetermined angle to thus change the gear of the gear-type transmission; and a reverse lock device. The reverse lock device has: a stopper rotated integrally with the change drum; a reverse lock pin disposed substantially perpendicularly to an axial direction of the change drum and capable of moving in a direction of a pin length between a lock position, at which the reverse lock pin is locked to the stopper so as to prevent the change drum from being rotated to a backward traveling position, and an unlock position, at which the reverse lock pin is unlocked from the stopper; and an unlocking transmission mechanism for moving the reverse lock pin to the unlock position.
US07854169B2 Sensor device and rolling bearing with sensor
A sensor device includes: a detected part D having a movable element 5 and a fixed element 3 contacting each other in which a contact area of the both elements changes corresponding to an external load; a contact area detection sensor 2, provided to the fixed element 3, for detecting the contact area of the detected part D; and processing means for calculating the external load from an sensor output by using the correlation between the external load and the contact area.
US07854160B2 Diagnostic systems and methods for the high pressure side of fuel systems in common fuel rail engines
A fuel system diagnostic module comprises a pressure module and a fault diagnostic module. The pressure module determines first and second pressures of a fuel rail of a fuel system at first and second times, respectively. The second time is after shutdown of an engine. The fault diagnostic module selectively diagnoses a fault in the fuel system based upon a comparison of a predetermined period with a period between the engine shutdown and the second time.
US07854156B2 Closing device and closing method
A closing device 100 which presses a die 2 against a rotating pipe body 1 such that an open end portion of the pipe body 1 is plastically closed by the die 2 includes a cored bar 3 inserted into the pipe body 1 to close the open end portion of the pipe body 1 on the opposite side of the die 2, and a reactive force applying mechanism 43, 60 which allows the cored bar 3 to retreat and applies a reactive force to the retreating cored bar 3 when the cored bar 3 receives a predetermined load or more during processing of the pipe body 1 by the die 2.
US07854151B2 Needle for knitting sueded fabrics
A knitting needle for knitted sueded fabric is provided. The needle includes a shank, a hook, a latch, and an abrasive surface. The abrasive surface is defined on at least one of the shank, the hook, and the latch.
US07854142B2 Dual air conditioner system shared capacitors
An air conditioner having two compressors enables, when one compressor is started, the phase advance capacitor for the other compressor to be temporarily separated and used in parallel with the phase advance capacitor for the one compressor. These compressors can have an increased starting torque without using a starting capacitor.
US07854140B2 Reheat dehumidification system in variable speed applications
A refrigerant system is provided with a reheat function selectively utilizing the heat rejected by the variable speed drive controller and electronics that are often employed in known refrigerant cycles. By placing at least one of these variable speed drives in the path of air being delivered to an environment to be conditioned, the air is reheated to a desired temperature, after it has been overcooled in the evaporator to provide a desired humidity level. In this manner, the variable speed drive is cooled, and the reheat function is provided, without the requirement of any additional flow structure.
US07854138B2 Method for controlling multi-unit air conditioning system
A method for controlling a multi-unit air conditioning system adapted to cool or heat room spaces while passing a refrigerant in one direction or in a reverse direction is disclosed. In the method, which is applied to a multi-unit air conditioning system including at least three compressors, when a compressor re-operation is repeatedly carried out after all of the compressors have been turned off, to turn on again at least one of the compressors, repetition of the compressor re-operation is carried out for a predetermined number of different orders in such a manner that at least one of the compressors is turned on first in an associated order of the repeated compressor re-operation.
US07854132B2 Circulation cooling system of cryogenic cable
The present invention provides a circulation cooling system of a cryogenic cable in which a reserver unit can be made smaller and a conventional adjustment mechanism or adjustment task of the amount of a refrigerant within a reserver unit is not necessary. The circulation cooling system of a cryogenic cable according to the present invention has a reserver unit storing a refrigerant and a cable cooling portion cooling down a cable by the refrigerant sent from the reserver unit and the refrigerant sent from the cable cooling portion is returned to the reserver unit again for circulation. The system is characterized in that it has a refrigerant temperature adjustment mechanism to keep constant the amount of the refrigerant within the reserver unit.
US07854130B2 Internal clearing function for a refrigerant recovery/recharge machine
An apparatus and method providing a refrigeration servicing system that comprises a clean refrigerant source, a recovery circuit and a flushing circuit. The recovery circuit can be configured to recover refrigerant from a cooling system. After recovery cycle is completed, the flushing circuit that is coupled to the recovery circuit can flush clean refrigerant through the recovery circuit. A housing can be provided and configured to house the refrigerant source, the recovery circuit and the flushing circuit.
US07854129B2 Refrigeration apparatus
Disclosed is an apparatus that provides refrigerant based energy storage and cooling. When connected to a condensing unit, the system has the ability to store energy capacity during one time period and provide cooling from the stored energy during a second time period. The system requires minimal energy to operate during either time period, and only a fraction of the energy required to operate the system during the first time period is required to operate the system during the second time period using an optional refrigerant pump.
US07854106B2 Gasket for press-on twist-off closure
A press-on, twist-off container assembly of the type that is used, for example, and baby food containers includes a container that has, as conventional, a finish portion with at least one external thread and a closure that is mounted on the container. The closure is of the press-on, twist-off type and includes a panel portion and a skirt portion that together define a generally cylindrical interior recess. As is conventional, a deformable gasket is mounted within the interior recess that has a thread engaging portion that is deformed so as to at least partially conform to the external threads of said finish portion of said container. The thread engaging portion advantageously has a plurality of inwardly extending raised flutes that are circumferentially spaced irregularly about the thread engaging portion. At least some of the flutes are in contact with at least one of the external threads at respective points of contact, and each external thread has a total distance spanned by such points of contact. As a result of the irregular spacing of the flutes, the container assembly will have an aggregate distance spanned that is a sum of the total distance spanned for all of the external threads that is less than it would be were the flutes spaced regularly. Accordingly, the amount of torque that is necessary to remove the closure is comparatively reduced.
US07854105B2 Film wrapping machine utilizing two film carriage assemblies to effectively perform film change operations
A film wrapping machine comprises a pair of diametrically opposed film roll mounting and dispensing carriage assemblies which are used to individually and sequentially dispense their wrapping films. Accordingly, if depletion or breakage occurs within the wrapping film being dispensed by a first one of the pair of film roll mounting and dispensing carriage assemblies, the second film roll mounting and dispensing carriage assembly can effectively be activated so as to dispense its wrapping film whereby the film wrapping operation can continue with a minimum amount of stoppage or downtime. The switch-over or change-over between the first and second film roll mounting and dispensing carriage assemblies can be achieved in accordance with automatic and semi-automatic modes of operation.
US07854104B2 Multi-chamber container and cap therefor
A dispenser comprises a housing that has a removable tamper proof protective cap and tamper proof ring and is threaded to a container. The container, which is the main package, holds the supplemental component. The housing holds the first component into a plunger type chamber in a fully retracted position and is sealed from the supplemental component. The chamber has a delivery end that is closed before use. When pushed all the way in, the chamber's delivery end becomes open and delivers the first component into the main package.
US07854102B2 Panel for lift doors
An improved panel (10) for lift doors, made of metal or another suitable material, including a plate (12) in a basically rectangular shape, whose longer sides extend in height and are folded back with a “C”-shaped profile in the longitudinal direction to form opposed edges or rims (14) turned towards the longitudinal axis of the plate itself, the lower base of the latter being equipped with a basically “S”-shaped back fold including a horizontal flat portion (22) along which a plurality of fissures (24) are made which receive a portion of the lower edge of one or more stiffening members (36).
US07854096B2 Door protective cover
Embodiments of door protectors are described. One typical embodiment comprises front and rear corrugated cardboard panels that are draped over a door by way of one or more pieces of saddle tape that join the panels along their respective top edges. A plurality of folds, perforations and cutouts are provided on the faces of the panels to permit access to the door's hardware. Accordingly, the door can be operated in a traditional manner while providing impact and damage protection to the door. The panels include a plurality of widthwise folds that permit the door protector to be folded for transport and storage. In variations, the edge straps are provided often comprised of hook and loop material to both secure the protector in a folded configuration and to an associated door.
US07854091B1 Flowerpot
A flowerpot comprises a box body and a spacer. The buckling sheets of the spacer are buckled to the buckling recesses of the box body; and the spacer is placed upon the projection sheets and the wall assembly; a lower space and rear side of the box body below the spacer is formed with a water collecting tank and the space of the upper front side of the box body above the spacer is formed with a planting tank. In use, the hook of the spacer and the hook portion of the box body is attached to one supporting rod of a frame assembly and the two protrusions are placed upon another supporting rod. The water draining opening guides water from an upper flowerpot to a lower flowerpot. The water absorption sheets installed in the spacer can guide water from the water collecting tank to the planting tank automatically.
US07854089B2 Multiple-use vermin electrocution trap and method
A vermin trap including a movable path between the trap entrance and the bait, and a sensor adjacent the movable path for detecting vermin presence on the path. When a vermin detection signal is sent to a controller, the controller causes a movable clamping member to trap the vermin for electrocution. Also provided are methods for the path to rotate and/or pivot, thereby dislodging the electrocuted vermin into a containment region. Methods for electrocuting vermin are also disclosed.
US07854084B1 AR15-T400 hook-under trigger assembly
A disconnector for a rifle wherein the disconnector is formed with a hook-under portion which is provided with a sharp trigger body contact ridge which contacts on a center line (rifle longitudinal axis) of the underside of a portion of the trigger body when the disconnector is in a neutral position during the first stage of a two stage trigger pull.
US07854079B2 Animal marking tag consisting of a shell comprising two coloured elements
The invention relates to an animal marking and identification tag which is intended to receive a protrusion using an irreversible joining technique. The inventive tag comprises upper and lower shells which house an electronic member therebetween. The shells are assembled to one another by means of laser welding. The upper shell comprises at least two elements which are assembled such as to extend axially from one another, said elements including a dark base element which serves as an obstacle to the laser beam and a brightly-coloured top element which renders the tag visible.
US07854078B2 Chain assembly
In one aspect of the invention, a chain assembly comprises a boom comprising a sliding surface and a plurality of chain links adapted to slide along the sliding surface. At least one polycrystalline ceramic enhanced insert at an interface between the chain links and at least a portion of the sliding surface.
US07854066B2 Method and apparatus for an agricultural implement seed meter
A seed meter includes an input port configured to receive a supply of seeds and an output port configured to deliver the supply of seeds for dispensing to a planting area and a seed disk configured to receive the supply of seeds from the input port and deliver the supply of seeds to the output port at a substantially uniform rate. The seed disk has a seed side where seeds flow from the input port, and a vacuum side opposite the seed side. The seed meter further includes a first housing portion surrounding a first portion of the seed disk in a fixed relationship to direct the supply of seeds against the seed disk and a second housing portion. The second housing portion is configured to move between a first position extending to a second portion of the seed disk to operate in concert with the first housing portion to direct the supply of seeds against the seed disk and a second position providing access to at least a portion of the second portion of the seed disk including the lowest most portion of the seed disk.
US07854054B2 Attachment for power tool
An attachment for a rotary cutting tool includes a first member for selectively coupling the attachment to a rotary cutting tool at a first location and a second member for selectively coupling the attachment to the rotary cutting tool at a second location. The attachment also includes a body extending between the first member and the second member and a handle extending from the body at a location between the first member and the second member and oriented substantially perpendicular to the body. The body is arranged between the handle and the rotary cutting tool when the attachment is coupled to the rotary cutting too. The attachment also includes a shaft extending from within the body and a base coupled to shaft and configured for contacting a workpiece when the rotary cutting tool is forming cuts in the workpiece.
US07854051B2 Method of assembly of low cost oil/grease separator
A container for receiving and holding effluent water containing oil/grease to be removed has sectional covers. A main sectional cover supports a partially immersed rotatable disk; a drive on the main sectional cover rotates the disk; a trough on the main sectional cover straddles the disk; and a blade on the trough scrapes a side of the disk, to direct oil and grease from the disk along the scraper blade along the trough for collection in a storage container. Efficiencies of construction of the sectional covers, disk and a sensor probe are disclosed.
US07854045B2 Quick release watch band
A quick release jewelry band is configured to release a wrist-watch from the wrist of a wearer if the watch band is subject to an excessive load which may injure the wearer.
US07854037B2 Paint pad with adjustable handle
A paint pad with adjustable handle belong to painting tool field, includes a handle; a pad unite that includes a pad support body and a pad holder plate, the pad holder plate is connected to the bottom of the pad support body; wherein the pad support body has a handle groove on the top; a orientation part is under the groove, its up surface has a plurality of orientation teeth; the handle with plurality of adjusting teeth at the end of handle is located in the groove; a knob on the top of the pad support body can adjust the relationship between the orientation teeth and adjusting teeth. The conventional paint pad is fallible and instable for keeping stable angle between the handle and pad unite, it influences the painting route and uniformity, and reduces painting quality. The paint pad of the present invention allows the handle to have up & down vertically pivotal movement but not left & right swing; though the knob to adjust the engaging force between teeth, therefore, keep the right needed angle for stable operation. The new paint pad possesses advantages of easy in changing working situation, comfortable holding, big amount of absorbing paint, speedy painting, high quality in painting of corner wall areas and area with different colors and exchangeable of paint pad.
US07854030B2 Utility tub with removable rack
A utility tub is provided with a sink area having support surfaces for removably supporting a tray. The tray may hold items that are drying. In addition, the utility tub may be provided with an enlarged area for supporting other items, and various accessories such as a towel rack or towel pegs.
US07854025B2 Protective and decorative covering for sports helmets
A covering for a sports helmet is provided. The covering including a band having at least a portion composed of a first heat shrink material. The band being sized to cover the sports helmet after an application of heat to the first heat shrink material. Also provided is a sports helmet.