Document Document Title
US07942253B2 Thumb-actuated handle device
Provided is a novel handle device that encloses a ratcheting mechanism that a user can easily control and operate using only one hand by employing conveniently located push button ratchet controls situated at the opposing lateral surface ends of the handle.
US07942252B2 Gear shift module for an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle
In a gear shift module for an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle including a series of gear shift elements for example in the form of gear shift forks, which are operated for the shifting of gears, a gear shift module is provided which has a module baseplate forming part of the cylinders of piston-cylinder units and at least part of a housing of a countershaft brake and a central clutch disengager of a starting clutch. These parts can be manufactured jointly providing for lower manufacturing and assembly costs.
US07942236B2 Exhaust device for straddle-type vehicle and straddle-type vehicle
An exhaust device for a straddle-type vehicle that satisfies the requirements of sound deadening characteristics and which has a reduced size is provided. The exhaust device for a straddle-type vehicle that includes an exhaust pipe connected to an engine and a silencer connected to the exhaust pipe. The silencer includes at least one resonator selected from a group consisting of a Helmholtz resonator and a side branch resonator. The resonator is packed with a sound absorbing material.
US07942235B2 Exhaust system for an internal combustion engine
Disclosed is an exhaust system (100) for an internal combustion engine, comprising a first exhaust train that is provided with a penetrable first muffler (120), especially a rear muffler, and at least one second exhaust train which encompasses a second penetrable muffler (122), particularly a rear muffler. The structure of the first muffler (120) differs from that of the second muffler (122).
US07942223B2 Vehicular radiator supporting apparatus
A vehicular radiator supporting apparatus 10 has a pair of radiator support sides 16 and 18 connected to a radiator support upper 12 to be pivoted about a predetermined pivot axis O. To the pair of radiator support sides 16 and 18, a pair of abutting brackets 34 and 36 are integrally fixed at positions corresponding to a height of the bumper reinforcement 54, and they are connected to a pair of vehicle-body side brackets 38 and 40. When applied with a load exceeding a predetermined value and acting rearward of the vehicle, the pair of abutting brackets 34 and 36 are pivoted about the pivot axis O integrally with the pair of radiator support sides 16 and 18 to be displaced rearward of the vehicle. Thus, the vehicular radiator supporting apparatus 10 itself in addition to the radiator main body 20 is prevented from being damaged.
US07942214B2 Steerable drilling system
A steerable drilling system comprises a rotary drill bit 14 secured to a housing 16, a secondary rotary drill component 22 carried by the housing and rotatable therewith, the second rotary drill component 22 having a gauge dimension greater than that of the rotary drill bit 14, and a drive arrangement operable to displace the secondary rotary drill component 22 relative to the housing 16 while maintaining an axis 24 of the secondary rotary drill component 22 substantially parallel to an axis 18 of the housing 16.
US07942207B2 Ceiling-only dry sprinkler systems and methods for addressing a storage occupancy fire
A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown the fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent one or more sprinklers so as to form the preferred sprinkler operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably configured so as to provide sufficient fluid volume and cooling to address the fire-event with a surround and drown configuration. The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. The preferred sprinkler system is adapted for fire protection of storage commodities and provides a ceiling only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantages and design penalties of current dry sprinkler system design.
US07942197B2 Methods and systems for producing fluid from an in situ conversion process
A system that includes a plurality of heat sources configured to heat a portion of a formation is described. At least one production well is in the formation. A bottom portion of the production well is a sump in an underburden of the formation below the heated portion of the formation. Fluids from the heated portion of the formation are allowed to flow into the sump. A pump system has an inlet in the sump. A production conduit is coupled to the pump system. The production conduit is configured to transport fluids in the sump out of the formation.
US07942192B2 Vehicle air conditioner
In an air conditioner constructed to pass an air introduced into an air conditioning unit through an evaporator and a heater core both arranged in the unit, cooler pipes for the evaporator and heater pipes for the heater core are arranged to extend from the same side wall of the air conditioning unit.
US07942191B2 Method and system for producing wide steel strip
A method for producing a wide steel strip using thin slab continuous casting and rolling by the following steps a) casting a molten steel into a thin slab having a thickness of between 50 and 90 mm; b) cutting; c) soaking; d) heating by electromagnetic induction; e) descaling; f) rolling; g) cooling with laminar flow; and h) coiling. The method can effectively control the solution and precipitation of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfide in steel with a low cost. The process is easy and flexible, and steel can be produced in a wide range of categories. Further provided is a system for producing a wide steel strip with thin slab continuous casting and rolling.
US07942190B2 Process for repairing inlet ports of an extruder die
A process for repairing one or more worn inlet ports on an interior or exterior surface of an extruder die wherein each inlet port provides an opening into an extrusion channel. The worn inlet port has a funnel shape and a diameter greater than that of the extrusion channel. The worn inlet port is repaired by placing a fused silicon oxide insert into one or more extrusion channels so that an external surface of the insert engages the interior surface of the extrusion channel, thereby forming a pocket around the insert between the circumference or perimeter of the worn inlet port and the external surface of the insert. The pocket is filled with molten metal, and the insert prevents the molten metal from entering the extrusion channel. When the molten metal hardens the inserts are removed. New inlet ports are thereby formed having the same diameter as the extrusion channels.
US07942187B2 Method for manufacturing mold
A method for manufacturing a mold, including steps of (a) expanding a powder mixture containing a water-soluble inorganic salt powder and a water-soluble organic polymer powder in a plane on a table and then selectively spraying a spray liquid containing at least one selected from a water-miscible organic solvent and water through a nozzle on this powder mixture layer to make a bonding strength among particles of the powder mixture in a sprayed region higher than that among particles of the powder mixture in an unsprayed region, (b) further expanding the powder mixture on the powder mixture layer after spraying and then selectively spraying the spray liquid through the nozzle on this powder mixture layer, (c) repeatedly conducting the step (b) over several times to form a mold shaped by the sprayed regions, and (d) taking out the mold.
US07942182B2 Rigid-backed, membrane-based chip tooling
An apparatus for use with multiple individual chips having a rigid plate, and a deformable membrane located on the plate, the deformable membrane having a thickness sufficient to allow the deformable membrane to peripherally conform to each of the individual multiple chips irrespective of any difference in height among the multiple individual chips and to prevent each of the multiple individual chips from moving in a lateral direction, the deformable membrane being configured to uniformly transfer a vertical force, applied to the rigid plate, to the chips so as to bring, under pressure, a bonding surface of each individual chip into contact with a bonding surface of an element to which the individual chips will be bonded during a connect and release cycle without causing damage to the individual chips or bonding surface.
US07942178B2 Pneumatic tire for motorcycle having central, intermediate and shoulder tread rubber
The present invention provides a pneumatic tire for a motorcycle which improves driving performance and braking performance without degrading driving stability particularly when a middle camber angle is applied to the tire. This tire comprises a tread portion 1, side wall portions 2 and bead portions 3, wherein this tread portion 1 comprises five regions of a central region A, shoulder regions C and intermediate regions B and 100% modulus of at least a portion forming the ground contact surface of intermediate tread rubber 7b disposed over the entire region of the intermediate regions B is larger than both of 100% modulus of at least a portion forming the ground contact surface of central tread rubber 7a disposed over the entire region of the central region A and 100% modulus of at least a portion forming the ground contact surface of shoulder tread rubber 7c disposed over the entire region of the shoulder regions C.
US07942171B2 Device and method for filling multiple sandbags at a time
An implement for mechanically filling multiple sandbags at a time is used on a loader bucket of loader-type equipment. The implement has a planar surface in which a plurality of filler apertures are formed in a plurality of rows evenly spaced over its surface area. Each filler aperture has a tensioner ring around the aperture for holding a drawstring held in a sleeve around an open end of the sandbag. A trigger mechanism is movable to a locked position in which the drawstring of the sandbag is pulled tight so that the open end of the sandbag is held in place on the tensioner ring, to an unlocked position in which the trigger mechanism lifts the drawstring off the tensioner ring to allow the sandbag filled with filler material to pull on and cinch the open end of the sandbag closed, and to a release position in which the cinched sandbag is released to the ground.
US07942170B2 Installation for packaging a liquid product in receptacles
An installation for packaging a product in receptacles. The installation includes a series of filler stations each having a filler spout having a spout body with a top end connected to a filler spout feed duct and a bottom end provided with an orifice fitted with a controlled valve. The filler spout is fitted with a looping duct opening into the spout body above the controlled valve and connected by a link member to a general feed duct at a point between a stop valve and an isolation valve. A purge valve is connected to the general feed duct between the isolation valve and the link member.
US07942166B1 Devices for delivering gas
A device for delivering gas is disclosed. The device may include a chamber and a guide. The chamber may include a set of input openings for receiving the gas and an output opening for providing the gas. The set of input openings may include a first hole and a second hole. The chamber may receive a first portion of the gas through the first hole and a second portion of the gas through the second hole. The guide may include a guiding unit. The guiding unit may be disposed inside the chamber. The guiding unit may contact the first portion of the gas before the first portion of the gas contacts the second portion of the gas and may contact the second portion of the gas before the second portion of the gas contacts the first portion of the gas.
US07942165B2 Connection structure between integrated panel and fluid device
A connecting structure for an integration panel and a fluid device in which an excellent sealing property can be held even when substantially no further fastening is performed, and the assembling workability is improved is provided. When an integration panel 1 and a valve 2 are to be communicatingly connected to each other in a sealed state through single circular pipe-like fluid passages 3, 7 by using an annular gasket G, an annular projection 11 and outer and inner tapered peripheral faces 12a, 13a are formed in first and second fluid supply/discharge port portions 1A, 2A, and the gasket G is configured by a fluororesin having a pair of annular grooves 51, 51 and tapered peripheral faces 52a, 53a. The integration panel 1 and the valve 2 are attracted to each other, thereby configuring a joined state where a sealing portion S1 is formed by fitting the annular projection 11 to the annular groove 51 to press contact the tapered peripheral faces 12a, 13a, 52a, 53a with each other.
US07942145B2 Rechargeable self-heating food container
A rechargeable, self-heating food container includes an inner chamber with a supersaturated salt solution and trigger means for initiating crystallization of the supersaturated salt solution. A rechargeable element for heating food includes a cylinder containing a supersaturated salt solution sealingly insertable into a food container, with a trigger in fluid contact with the supersaturated salt solution. A method of heating a food container includes providing a food container with an internal chamber, a supersaturated salt solution contained in the internal chamber, and a trigger to initiate crystal nucleation within the supersaturated salt solution in an exothermic reaction; and recharging by heating the food container until the salt crystals melt, and cooling the salt solution to a supersaturated state. A portable recharger for a rechargeable heating element includes an insulated sleeve with electric resistive heating element pluggable into an automobile or conventional ac outlet.
US07942143B2 Heating cooking appliance and burner system thereof
A heating cooking appliance and a burner system thereof are provided. The height of the burner pot is reduced to facilitate product installation and reduce overall material and shipping costs. To increase user satisfaction with the product, a plurality of mixing tubes are extended in the same direction on one side of the burner pot in the burner system.
US07942141B1 Magnetic arrow quiver for carrying arrows
An arrow quiver for carrying arrows is provided. Each arrow has a blade end, a feather end, and an elongated shaft between the blade end and the feather end with the blade end having a tip and blade edges. The arrow quiver comprises a cross member having a first end and a second end. A gripping mechanism is secured to the first end of the cross member with the gripping mechanism substantially surrounding and releasably gripping the elongated shaft only between the blade end and the feather end. A blade hood is secured to the second end of the cross member for forming a blade receiving pocket with the blade hood having a base, a cover and the cover movable from the base, and the blade receiving pocket being open on at least one side. A magnetic plate is positioned within the blade hood and mounted to the base with at least a portion of the blade edges being held by the magnetic plate.
US07942137B2 Heat exchanger
The invention relates to a heat exchanger with at least one duct, which can be flowed through by flowing medium from an inlet cross-section to an outlet cross-section, has an inside and outside, and which comprises, on the inside, structural elements for increasing the transfer of heat. The invention provides that the structural elements (11) are variably arranged and/or configured in the direction of flow (P) so that the duct (10), on the inside, has a variable heat transfer that, in particular, increases in the direction of flow (P).
US07942132B2 In-line noise filtering device for fuel system
A fuel injection system includes a fuel supply rail, a fuel injector configured to control the delivery of fuel from the fuel supply rail, and a noise filtering device engaging an upstream end of the fuel injector and/or positioned at least partially within the fuel injector. The noise filtering device defines a fuel passage configured to direct fuel from the fuel supply rail into the fuel injector. The noise filtering device can include one or more of several features including a pocket, a wrap-around shape to conform to the inlet end of the fuel injector, a face-sealing portion, a compression section, and a plurality of parallel restriction passages.
US07942129B2 Method of controlling a spark-ignition supercharged internal-combustion engine, notably of gasoline type
The present invention relates to a method of controlling a spark-ignition supercharged internal-combustion engine, notably of gasoline type, comprising at least one cylinder (12) with a combustion chamber (14), at least two intake means (24, 26), at least one fuel injection means (40, 42), at least one exhaust means (28, 30) and an ignition means (52).According to the invention, the method consists in preparing a fuel mixture with a fuel/air ratio greater than or equal to 1, another fuel mixture is prepared with a fuel/air ratio below 1, the two fuel mixtures are fed into the combustion chamber so as to obtain a part (C1) of this chamber containing a fuel mixture with the fuel/air ratio greater than or equal to 1 and the remaining part (C2) of the chamber containing the fuel mixture with the fuel/air ratio below 1.
US07942116B2 Double action piston assembly
The double action piston assembly is for an internal combustion engine and has a combustion chamber that has a double action piston connected to one end of a central power rod disposed within the combustion chamber. A first intake air port and a first exhaust port are located in the up side of the combustion chamber. A compression chamber is connected to the combustion chamber. A central power rod passes through the combustion chamber into the compression chamber and out the compression chamber. A fuel mixture is fed into the combustion chamber and ignition means adjacent to combustion chamber to ignite the fuel mixture. At the end of each stroke, the compression exhaust valves are opened and the intake ports and the exhaust ports are open to permit air from the compression chamber to pass through the conduits into the combustion chamber for full scavenging of the combustion chamber.
US07942106B2 Push pole for a boat
A push pole for manually propelling boats, including a shaft and a foot. In a preferred embodiment, the foot is flared at the bottom end in an inverted V-shape, and a pivoting pin is located along one side of the foot, and pivots outwardly from the foot so that it may be used to retrieve lures or as a docking hook. When the pin is not in use, it may pivot back into a receiving cavity within the side of the foot, forming a streamlined edge thereof. In one embodiment, the pivoting mechanism of the pin may include a spring to bias the pin in an outward direction, as well as means for locking the pin into the inward streamlined position when not in use. The pivoting pin may be locked into either the extended or retracted position. Further, the foot may be detachable from the shaft in any desired manner, and replaced by a net, paddle, gig, scrub brush, gaff, docking hook or spike that attaches in the same manner as the foot. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, the push pole is buoyant in water, and includes a telescoping shaft that may be extended or retracted. A detachable hook is also disclosed.
US07942103B2 Cloth pressing device of sewing machine
A cloth pressing device of a sewing machine is provided. The cloth pressing device includes a presser bar, a presser foot rotatably coupled to a lower end portion of the presser bar, an elastic member having a base end portion which is supported by the presser bar and a tip end portion which is engageable with a tip side portion of the presser foot to downwardly bias the tip side portion of the presser foot, and an adjusting mechanism operable to move the tip end portion of the elastic member between a position at which the tip end portion of the elastic member engages with the tip side portion of the presser foot and another position at which the tip end portion of the elastic member does not engage with the tip side portion of the presser foot.
US07942101B2 Leg adjuster for a work support
Apparatus for adjusting the longitudinal and angular position of a work surface support leg. The leg passes through a channel in a cap held via a spring and pin to a base affixed to the work surface. The leg's angular position is adjusted by rotating the cap, which moves a tooth through a series of mating depressions. The longitudinal position is adjusted by moving the leg which has a series of notches that mate with a locking tooth in the cap. A knob interfaces with the cap via a rotary cam having high and low steps and a matching cam rider. The low step allows separation between the cap and base and the high step locks the cap to the base, thereby locking in the adjustment setting for the leg.
US07942098B2 Loading tube for shaped charges
A loading tube for use in a perforating gun is disclosed which eliminates the necessity for utilization of plastic jackets to restrain shaped charges. The loading tube comprises a first tubular member and an engagement structure in the first tubular member in which the primer ends of the shaped charges may be installed. These engagement structures may be a center plate or inner tubular members. In each of the disclosed embodiments, a detonating cord connects the primer ends of the shaped charges which are installed in the loading tube.
US07942096B2 Method of controlling a powder sprayer and printing press having a powder sprayer
A method of controlling a powder sprayer having a fan jet nozzle configuration in a printing press, includes controlling the fan jet nozzle configuration as a function of operating parameters of the printing press. A printing press having a powder sprayer is also provided.
US07942092B1 Blast shield for armored vehicle
A protective shield apparatus for a light armor vehicle having a turret includes a generally flat base plate mounted to the turret; an armor plate fixed to the base plate and including a front panel, a first side panel, a second side panel and a rear panel, the armor plate being canted vertically outward from the base plate; each of the first side panel, second side panel and rear panel including a ballistic glass window; a rear bracket connected at one end to a rear of the base plate and at another end to the turret; and a z-bracket connected at one end to the rear of the base plate and at another end the z-bracket bears against the turret.
US07942089B2 Anvil drum and an anvil assembly provided with such an anvil drum
An anvil drum for a rotary cutting apparatus having a rotary axis comprises an axle on each axial side of the anvil and concentric with the axis. Each of the axles is adapted to receive a bearing, and an anvil surface substantially concentric with the rotary axis. A reference portion is provided including an axial reference surface coaxial to the axis and a radial surface perpendicular to the axis. At least one connection device is provided for connecting a cover member on each axial side of the anvil so as to cover the bearing, respectively. An anvil assembly is further provided with such an anvil drum and the bearings, each cover member being provided with a blind opening adapted arranged coaxially with respect to the axis.
US07942087B2 Sheet punching apparatus and method for controlling the same
Disclosed are a sheet punching apparatus and a method for controlling the same in which the side end position of a sheet, its rear end position, a hole position, and the detachment state of a punch portion are sensed only by two sensors, and a punching hole can be formed at the exact position of a sheet by means of the two sensors. The sheet punching apparatus includes a punch portion (120) moving in a direction perpendicular to a moving direction of a sheet, a bracket (122) having an elastic member (12) to move in conjunction with the punch portion (120), a sheet side end sensing means (S10) fixed to a predetermined position of the bracket, sensing the side end of the sheet in accordance with movement of the bracket, and a sheet rear end sensing means (S20) opened to sense the rear end of the moving sheet when the bracket moves at a predetermined distance along with the punch portion to sense the side end of the sheet, wherein the punch portion (120) works to punch the sheet at a predetermined position after the rear end of the sheet is sensed by the sheet rear end sensing means.
US07942086B2 Hobble turning method and preferred applications for said method
A process for hobble lathing, and preferred process applications, for the cutting of workpieces with non-circular or discontinuous contours on programmable lathes. The use and combination of a special program e.g. of thread cycles and hobble values for the diameter and/or the longitudinal axis or the pitch, the angle of the spindle, in option of a reciprocal-step technique and interleaved machining sequences opens up virtually infinite possibilities. The preferred applications of the process allow special threads to be cut on screw-in bodies, e.g. screw-in artificial hip joint sockets and bone screws for example with neutral or virtually any angle of pitch or relief of the thread blade as well as e.g. internal and external contours on workpieces for circular wedge connections. A particularly beneficial hip joint socket is presented comprising so-called screw or threaded surfaces.
US07942081B2 Automatically adjustable power jaw
An improved jaw apparatus is provided for making or breaking a tubular pipe connection. The jaw includes a head adapted to receive a hook having a threaded shank end. The threaded shank end is engaged at the head end opposite the hook end by a hydraulic powered nut adjustment assembly. The adjustment assembly may be operated by a control unit to allow for the automatic opening and closing of the jaw for receiving pipes of varying diameters.
US07942061B2 Pressure differential metering device
The pressure differential metering device of the present invention is generally deployed as a flow restrictor placed in the valve inlet so it will create a desired differential pressure to signal a pilot valve, for example, that drives the main valve to limit the flow rate through the valve. The pressure differential metering device of the present invention is deployed across the valve inlet port, with its central axis perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow. The flow restriction element of the present invention may be configured in a variety of sizes to create a desired restrictive cross section to the flow, thereby creating the required differential pressure signals for the valve instrumentation and control. The flow restriction element is configured with upstream and downstream apertures that are the openings to passageways to the corresponding upstream and downstream end-ports. The end-ports provide connection arrangements for the control system of the main valve instrumentation.
US07942056B2 Self-exciting, self-sensing piezoelectric cantilever sensor
A piezoelectric cantilever sensor includes a piezoelectric layer and a non-piezoelectric layer, a portion of which is attached to the piezoelectric layer. In one embodiment, one end of the non-piezoelectric layer extends beyond the end of piezoelectric layer to provide an overhang. The overhang piezoelectric cantilever sensor enables increased sensitivity allowing application of the device in more viscous environments, such as liquid media, as well as application in liquid media at higher flow rates than conventional piezoelectric cantilevers. In another embodiment, the sensor includes first and second bases and at least one of the piezoelectric layer and the non-piezoelectric layer is affixed to each of the first and second bases to form the piezoelectric cantilever sensor. In this embodiment, the sensor is robust and exhibits excellent sensing characteristics in both gaseous and liquid media, even when subjected to relatively high flow rates.
US07942054B2 Gravity gradiometer
A gravity gradiometer is disclosed which has a sensor in the form of bars (41 and 42) which are supported on a mounting (5) which has a first mount section (10) and a second mount section (20). A first flexure web (33) pivotally couples the first and second mount sections about a first axis. The second mount has a first part (25), a second part (26) and a third part (27). The parts (25 and 26) are connected by a second flexure web (37) and the parts (26 and 27) are connected by a third flexure web (35). The bars (41 and 42) are located in housings (45 and 47) and form a monolithic structure with the housings (45 and 47) respectively. The housings (45 and 47) are connected to opposite sides of the second mount section 20. The bars (41 and 42) are connected to their respective housings by flexure webs (59). Transducers (71) are located in proximity to the bars for detecting movement of the bars to in turn enable the gravitational gradient tensor to be measured. The first mount section (10) has cut-outs (16) and the second mount section (20) has lugs (13) which pass through the cut-outs for connecting the first and second mount sections (10 and 20) in a Dewar (1).
US07942051B2 Method and device for survey of sea floor
A method and a device are described for survey of an ocean floor, and also cables and the like on the ocean floor in ocean areas with strong currents, as a submersible survey platform (10) is lowered from a surface vessel with the help of a winch system (12) on the vessel to a desired distance in relation to the ocean floor. The desired fixed distance from the ocean floor is controlled in real time in relation to the topography of the ocean floor at the same time as the vessel moves forward to drive the platform (10) along a desired trajectory with the help of one or more sensors that register the distance to and possibly direction towards the ocean floor and which are connected to the winch (12) via a control system (14). At the same time, sideways movements of the platform (10) caused by currents are compensated for with the help of one or more sensors that are connected to a number of thrusters (16) on the platform (10) via said control system (12).
US07942044B2 Wrist pin sensing system and method
A method, and a system employing the method, for determining a position of a rotational part in a reciprocating machine. The system includes a quadrature encoder and an interrupter coupled to the rotational element. As the interrupter rotates with the wrist pin, the quadrature encoder generates some binary signals based on the rotation of the wrist pin. A digital-to-analog converter then converts the binary signals into a single analog signal. The system then wirelessly transmits the single analog signal for processing by other remote components.
US07942038B2 Systems and methods of monitoring acoustic pressure to detect a flame condition in a gas turbine
A method may detect a flashback condition in a fuel nozzle of a combustor. The method may include obtaining a current acoustic pressure signal from the combustor, analyzing the current acoustic pressure signal to determine current operating frequency information for the combustor, and indicating that the flashback condition exists based at least in part on the current operating frequency information.
US07942036B2 Rheometer allowing direct visualization of continuous simple shear in non-newtonian fluid
The present invention relates to a rheometric device which provides a direct visualization of the subject material. The device also determines the velocity and/or the strain field across the thickness and the morphology to be determined across the same gap. The invention relates both to a device and/or method that can be used in connection with current shearing rheometers, and similar apparatus. The present invention also relates to a process for making a shear rate measurement. The invention provides versatility by allowing multiple angles of visualization which properly characterizes the flow characteristics and shear rates involved.
US07942031B2 Sensor mount assembly
A shock resistant sensor assembly comprises a base plate, a clamp lid, a hinge assembly secured to the base plate and the clamp lid and forming a hinge connection, and a releasable clamp assembly secured to either the base plate or the clamp lid opposite the hinge assembly and having a latch member for releasably engaging and clamping the other end of the base plate or the clamp lid. A sensor housing with a sensor is clamped between the base plate and the clamp lid.
US07942030B2 Shell press, and die assembly and associated method therefor
A die assembly is provided, which is structured to be affixed to a shell press. The die assembly includes at least one die shoe having first and second opposing ends, and a number of divisions between the first end and the second end. The divisions are structured to divide the at least one die shoe into a plurality of pieces to accommodate thermal expansion. Each of the divisions between the pieces of the at least one die shoe has a profile. Preferably, the profile is not straight. Each of the divisions of the at least one die shoe form a gap between the pieces of the die shoe, thereby spacing the pieces apart from one another. The pieces are independently coupled to a corresponding mounting surface of the shell press. A shell press and a method for employing the die assembly in a shell press are also disclosed.
US07942025B1 Combined washer dryer
A combined washer dryer is provided. The combined washer dryer comprises an outer drum; a variable size inner drum that moves from a first position to a second position effective to increase the inner drum size; a water handling system; and an air handling system.
US07942023B2 Drum type washing machine
Disclosed herein are a drum type washing machine and a control program therefore. The washing machine includes a control mechanism to control a motor. The control mechanism includes a torque control unit to perform torque addition processes of adding pulse type torque during only a period for which a drum makes one rotation in a uniform torque control state in which torque of the motor is uniformly controlled at least two times and to perform the second torque addition process after n+0.5 rotations of the drum (n is an integer not less than 1) on the basis of the first torque addition process, and a weight calculation unit to calculate an average value of rotational accelerations of the motor at the respective torque addition processes and to calculate a weight of laundry received in the drum based on the average value.
US07942016B2 Icemaker external intrusion protection
A refrigerator includes a refrigerator cabinet having at least one door, an ice dispenser operatively connected to one of the at least one door having an opening for dispensing ice, an ice storage receptacle for storing ice disposed within the refrigerator cabinet, an ice crusher, an ice transfer mechanism for moving ice from the ice storage receptacle to the ice crusher, an ice chute for conveying ice from the ice crusher to the ice dispenser, and an intrusion barrier positioned within the ice chute to assist in preventing objects entering the ice chute through the ice dispenser from reaching the ice crusher without stopping ice flow through the ice chute. The ice dispenser may include a first switch and a second switch, the first switch being spaced apart from the second switch, and the ice dispenser adapted to require simultaneous activation of the first switch and the second switch to dispense ice. The ice dispenser may also include one or more sensors in the ice chute to detect objects moving toward the ice crusher.
US07942014B2 Reduced energy refrigerator defrost method and apparatus
A method for defrosting an evaporator of a refrigeration sealed system, the system including at least one refrigeration compartment and a controller operatively coupled to a compressor, an evaporator, an evaporator fan and a condenser fan, wherein the method includes initiating a defrost cycle, operating the sealed system to prechill the refrigeration compartment, and selectively operating the evaporator fan and the condenser fan to raise a temperature of the evaporator.
US07942013B2 Display for refrigerator and display mounting frame, display mounting structure comprising the same
The present invention is directed to a display for a refrigerator, comprising a display case mounted to a display mounting portion provided to a front surface of a refrigerator door and provided with a predetermined installation space therein; a printed circuit board (PCB) installed to the display case and including an input portion for receiving various operation signals for the refrigerator and a display portion for displaying a variety of operating information for the refrigerator; and a display cover provided to one side of the PCB and defining a front surface of the display. According to the present invention, there are advantages in that errors occurring at an installation process can be minimized, the assembly and installation processes can be more easily made, and the repair and exchange can also be easily performed.
US07942010B2 Thermoelectric power generating systems utilizing segmented thermoelectric elements
A thermoelectric system includes a first thermoelectric element including a first plurality of segments in electrical communication with one another. The thermoelectric system further includes a second thermoelectric element including a second plurality of segments in electrical communication with one another. The thermoelectric system further includes a heat transfer device including at least a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is sandwiched between the first thermoelectric element and the second thermoelectric element. The second portion projects away from the first portion and configured to be in thermal communication with a working medium.
US07942009B1 Gas turbine engine with an air cooled bearing
A small gas turbine engine with a compressor, a combustor, and a turbine located downstream of the combustor. The compressor and turbine are supported on a rotary shaft, and a main bearing is support on the rotary shaft, the main bearing being located in a hot zone of the combustor. The main bearing includes cooling air passages within the races to provide cooling for the bearing. A cooling air is diverted from the compressor and passed through the bearing cooling passages for cooling the bearing, and then the cooling air is directed into the combustor. The cooling air is also passed through a guide nozzle before being passed through the bearing to cool both the guide nozzle and the bearing. A swirl cup injector is sued to deliver the compressed air from the compressor and the cooling air from the bearing into the combustor, the swirl cup injector also acting to draw the cooling air through the bearing.
US07941999B2 Internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine with at least one turbocharger supplying compressed air to the engine cylinders which are divided into a first group and a second group, a first exhaust gas line connecting a first section of an exhaust gas collection line to the turbine, a recirculation line for returning exhaust gas from a second section of the exhaust gas collection line to the charge air supply line, a first control device controls the exhaust gas flow from a section of the cylinders to the first section of the exhaust gas collection line, a second control device controls the exhaust gas flow to the turbine and a third control device controls the exhaust gas flow recirculated to the charge air supply line for the cylinder.
US07941994B2 Emission control device
An engine having a first and second bank of cylinders is disclosed. The engine may have improved fuel economy and emission as compared to other similar engines. In one example, engine cylinders may be deactivated.
US07941990B2 Apparatus for packaging products into a container
An apparatus for packaging products into a container, comprising a first supply conveyor (10); reorientation means (60, 62), associated with said first supply conveyor and configured for selectively changing the orientation of products (74-76, 81) being transported thereon; a second supply conveyor (20), disposed downstream of the first supply conveyor and having a product-carrying surface (21) that is moveable in both a transport direction and a direction substantially perpendicular thereto; a collecting conveyor (30), disposed downstream of the second supply conveyor, whereby a portion of the third product-carrying surface is extendably and retractably arranged; and a suction pick up head (66) that is disposed in a substantially vertically moveable manner above the retractable portion of the collecting conveyor, the suction pick up head being configured for engaging a layer of products to be placed into the container (90).
US07941981B2 Fire barrier system including preassembled, one-piece, multi-directional fire barriers ready for inside-mounting in multi-directional architectural expansion joints, custom barrier specific installation tools, and cover plate and/or spreader devices
Multi-directional, one-piece, tested and rated, inside-mount fire barriers requiring no splicing to fit into expansion joint corner-type spaces are presented. Accompanying low-cost, re-useable, size-adjustable installation tools designed for one-step, drop-in, installation of each style barrier, are also taught. To insure a tight-fit between each installed barrier and the building units forming the joint space, spreader press-fit tools which, if desired, may serve as fire barriers covers are taught. Described herein is a barrier that needs no splicing to be installed into a T-shaped joint space that is created by the convergence of three building structures. The present invention contemplates inside-mounted, one-piece barriers shaped to fit cross-shaped and various L-shaped expansion spaces. L-shaped fire barriers include barriers having a horizontal and a vertical arm that can occur in various configurations and barriers having two horizontal arms.
US07941979B2 Thermal processing cabinet with monolithic floor
Smokehouses (20) or other similar thermal processing cabinets or houses are provided with improved floor assemblies (22) which eliminate fluid collection and provide a high degree of structural integrity. The smokehouses (20) include upright walls (24, 26) supported on the floor assemblies (22). Each floor assembly (22) has one or more weldment frame assemblies (38) including a peripheral frame assembly (46) with opposed wall receiving channel segments (52) and frame elements (54). Drainage structure such as one or more tubular drain units (44) are also preferably secured to the weldment frame assemblies (38) and are positioned to effect proper liquid drainage. Tread plates (42) are secured to the weldment frame assemblies (38). In order to construct a floor assembly (22), an appropriately sized recess (66) is formed and the weldment frame assemblies (38) and drain units (44) are installed. A monolithic pour of concrete (40) is then placed within the weldment frame assemblies (38) and allowed to cure. The tread plates (42) are then installed to complete the construction.
US07941976B2 Construction block
A construction block is provided that includes at least one base member that includes a plurality of lower side wall receptacles. The construction block further includes a plurality of side wall assemblies. Each of the side wall assemblies includes a plurality of interconnected panels. Each of the panels is hingedly connected to each adjacent one of the panels of the respective one of the side wall assemblies. Each of the side wall assemblies defines a hollow load chamber having an open top and an open bottom. At least some of the panels of each of the side wall assemblies are angled relative to one another. Each of the lower side wall receptacles receives one of the side wall assemblies.
US07941970B2 Combination-cell foam floating island
A floating island comprising a combination-cell thermoplastic foam. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising at least a first portion that comprises a combination-cell thermoplastic foam and having a cavity; and a bedding material that is disposed in said cavity; wherein said combination-cell thermoplastic foam is buoyant in water and permeable to gas and water. In another embodiment, the invention is a floating island comprising: an island body comprising a first matrix layer, a second matrix layer and a third matrix layer; and a gas-trapping insert that is disposed between two of said layers.
US07941963B2 Swimming waterfowl decoy with spray
A movable waterfowl decoy includes: (a) a decoy body portion including a buoyant decoy body and a head portion attached to an upper front portion of the decoy body, the buoyant decoy body including at least one body compartment, the body compartment including at least one closeable compartment opening; (b) a power source housed in the at least one body compartment; (c) a spray propulsion system that is substantially housed within the at least one body compartment; (d) a keel attached to a lower surface of the buoyant decoy body; and (e) a remote control system, a remote receiver of which is within the at least one body compartment; wherein the decoy body portion emits an above-water spray of water from a body of water in a generally rearward direction when the waterfowl decoy is in use, which propels the decoy body portion in the body of water. Alternatively, the power source is outside and remote from the decoy body portion, and connected to the spray propulsion system, with a power cable connecting the decoy body portion to the remote power source.
US07941947B2 Snow pusher
A snow pusher attachment for use in conjunction with a straight blade angle-type snow plow mounted to a work vehicle. This pusher allows a work vehicle to capture, contain, and relocate large amounts of snow very quickly and efficiently. The attachment consists of side panels, connected by horizontal members between. This pusher attachment is secured to the snow plow by bracket assemblies, attached to the upper edge of the snow plow that engage hooks on the upper, rear portion of the pusher attachment. The attachment does not require the operator to exit the work vehicle to secure or release it from the snowplow. Accordingly, the attachment allows the quick and repeated conversion of a snow plow into a snow pusher box and visa versa.
US07941944B2 Tongue for sports boots
A sports boot tongue, which comprises a comfort element (5) positioned directly on its surface (4) designed to be oriented toward the inside of the sports boot in order to come into contact with the foot or the leg of a user, this comfort element (5) fulfilling a first technical function of absorbing shocks and a second technical function of reducing friction and sliding by shearing.
US07941937B2 Laundry dryer control method
A laundry drier control method reads a temperature variation rate per unit time, to enable drying according to the amount and type of an object being dried. The method includes steps of initiating a drying procedure; measuring a temperature variation rate per unit time over the drying procedure; calculating an overall drying time based on the measured temperature variation rate per unit time; and performing the drying procedure for the calculated overall drying time. The drying time determining step is repeated if a substantial increase in the temperature variation rate is detected.
US07941935B2 Device and method for trailer axle wheel alignment
A device and method for aligning with a king pin or drawbar swivel eye on a trailer comprising a linear crossbar connectable to a kingpin or drawbar swivel eye to permit measurement along the side of the trailer between one or more axles and the ends of the crossbar for alignment of axles.
US07941930B2 Hand-held power tool
A hand-held power tool has a motor housing with drive motor and a grip housing with a longitudinal support and a forward grip. The motor housing and the grip housing are connected to one another by antivibration elements. The forward grip has a connecting end that is connected by a screw connection to the longitudinal support. The screw connection has at least one fastening screw that is positioned in the operating position of the power tool in a vertical direction of the power tool. The screw connection has a metal insertion part that is positioned entirely within the contour of the longitudinal support that is a plastic part. The metal insertion part has a screw receptacle for the at least one fastening screw. The at least one fastening screw is fixedly screwed into the metal insertion part.
US07941918B2 Method for electrically connecting a stinger into a network node
A spring-loaded device is installed into a node housing at a predetermined location. The predetermined location is selected to correspond to another predetermined location into which a stinger may be installed. These predetermined locations on the node housing are selected to further correspond to a predetermined internal location of an RF interface connector. A conducting pin of the RF interface extends through a dielectric between a nail head shaped end, which provides electrical connection with the stinger projection, and an end soldered to a PCB of the amplifier. The amplifier may be installed and the node housing closed before the stinger and spring-loaded device are installed into the housing. This facilitates installation of the stinger into the housing without having to open the housing and remove the amplifier. External threads on the spring-loaded device facilitate installation thereof, but a unique torque is not required therefor.
US07941912B2 Clamp body for electrical connector clamps
In order to increase the clamping effect in an electrical screw connector used in industrial applications to fix or hold an electrical conductor, the support and contact surfaces for the electrical conductor are textured. According to the invention, the texturing of the support and contact surfaces for the electrical conductor is carried out by various production methods using embossing or stamping tools.
US07941909B2 Method of fabricating an ultra-small condenser microphone
In the present invention, a plurality of condenser microphones is formed on a substrate. Then, charges are fixed to a dielectric film provided in each of the condenser microphones. After an amount of deposited charges of the dielectric film of each of the plurality of the condenser microphones is inspected by measuring capacitance of each condenser microphone while applying bias between the first electrode film thereof and the second electrode film thereof, the substrate is diced so that each of the condenser microphones is separated. Thus, at least the step of fixing charges is performed in a substrate state where the plurality of the condenser microphones is formed on the substrate. Therefore, the present invention contributes to enhancement of productivity in an assembly process of the condenser microphone and reduction in equipment costs.
US07941906B2 Progressive cavity apparatus with transducer and methods of forming and use
The present invention relates to a stator (100-1000) with a profiled helical bore (106,206,306,606,706,806,906,1006) having a cast material layer (102;202;302;602;702;802;902;1002) with transducers (104A-104D;304;604A-604D;710;804;904A-904C;1010) disposed therein and describes the methods of forming such stators. Cast material can be fluidic during displacing of a transducer therein. Cast material layer 202 can include housings (218,222) disposed therein and/or a cavity 226 formed therein. Transducer can be a sensor (104A-104C) and/or an actuator 104D. Transducer 804 can extend axially along a length of the stator 800. Transducer or plurality of transducers (904A-904C) can extend along a helical path. Additionally or alternatively, sleeve 1008 can include a transducer 1010.
US07941905B2 Method of removing a component from an aircraft
A device for facilitating the removal of a component from an aircraft includes a mounting member, a guide member and a handle. The mounting member provides an attachment portion for attaching the device to the aircraft. The guide member includes a support portion for receipt of the component to be removed and is pivotally mounted to the mounting member so that, when the component is being supported by the support portion in use, the support portion moves pivotally away from the aircraft along a predefined path. The handle is operatively associated with the guide member for assisting in the pivotal movement of the guide member.
US07941901B2 Apparatus for the fibre-sorting or fibre-selection of a fibre bundle comprising textile fibres, especially for combing
In an apparatus for fiber-sorting or fiber-selection of a fiber bundle comprising textile fibers, especially for combing, the fiber bundle is supplied to a fiber-sorting device, clamping devices are provided, which clamp the fiber bundle at a distance from its free end, and mechanical device is present, which generates a combing action from the clamping site to the free end of the fiber bundle. To increase productivity in a simple manner and obtain an improved combed sliver downstream of the supply device there are at least two rotatably mounted rollers rotating rapidly without interruption, the combing device are associated with a said roller, and an arrangement for optimum feed and/or positioning of the fiber material to be combed is associated with the combing device.
US07941900B2 Apparatus for the fibre-sorting or fibre-selection of a fibre bundle comprising textile fibres, especially for combing
In an apparatus for the fiber-sorting or fiber-selection of a fiber bundle which is supplied by means of a supply device to a fiber-sorting device, mechanical means are present which generate a combing action in order to loosen and remove non-clamped constituents from the fiber bundle, and a take-off device is present to remove the combed fiber material. To enable an improved combed sliver to be obtained, downstream of the supply device there are arranged at least two rotatably mounted rollers with clamping devices for the fiber bundles, which clamping devices are distributed around the periphery of the rollers, wherein in the region between the rollers, devices are present which provide an optimum feed of the fiber material and/or provide optimum positioning of the fiber material for transfer and take-up from the first roller to the second roller.
US07941892B2 Windshield wiping device for a motor vehicle
Windshield wiper device for a motor vehicle with at least one molded tube (10) to accommodate a drive shaft to drive at least one wiper arm, wherein the at least one molded tube (10) can be attached to a holding element (11) that can be connected to the body, and to a stub (12) accommodating a mounting plate tube, and connecting bridges (14, 15) are provided to attach the at least one molded tube (10) to the holding element (11) and/or to the stub (12).
US07941882B1 Magnetic cushioning system
The magnetic cushioning system is for use in a cushion, mattress or other cushioned article, the cushioning system providing adjustable firmness for the user. The magnetic cushioning system includes a plurality of magnetic supports enclosed within a cover. Each of the magnetic supports has a flexible shell having opposed upper and lower ends. A permanent magnet is disposed within the flexible shell and is positioned adjacent the upper end thereof. An electromagnet is disposed within the flexible shell and is positioned adjacent the lower end thereof. The cover has opposed upper and lower surfaces, the magnetic supports having the upper ends thereof secured to a lower face of the upper surface, and the lower ends thereof secured to an upper face of the lower surface of the cover. A controller is provided for selectively and adjustably controlling electrical power transmitted to each electromagnet.
US07941875B1 Trabecular matrix like protectors and method
An impact pad containing body cushioning device with the impact pad filled with a viscoelastic polymeric material which mimics the trabecular architecture of cancellous bone allowing the device to enhance this ability to cushion impact forces against various sensitive parts of the human body.
US07941872B2 Waistless underwear alternative secret pants shield
A women's waistless and seamless clothing adherable underwear includes an oval pad made of a soft absorbent material, wherein the pad has double sided strips of adhesive tape with removable peel-off cover strips to attach to the inside crotch area of low slung clothing pants, such as tight pants, leotards or dungaree jeans facing upward to the skin and crotch of the wearer. The material is preferably a soft, non-woven, absorbent material. The underwear is particularly suited for women who wear tight pants, or low waist hip hugger pants, which widely reveal waist bands and seams of panty underwear, or expose underwear waist bands. The underwear is minimally intrusive and is attractive for women who like to wear jeans without underwear but who fear bacterial infection or exposure to clothing dyes or irritating stitching.
US07941870B2 System for placing disposable sweatband
A system for placing a disposable sweatband on a variety of hats comprises the steps of attaching an adhesive tape with a backing paper to at least one longitudinal edge of the sweatband, for affixing to the hat in use. The adhesive tape can also be formed as an inner flap of the sweatband.