最新美国发明专利
Document Document Title
US07946398B2 Method for adjusting a braking torque and permanently excited magnetic hysteresis brake
A permanently excited magnetic hysteresis brake (1) comprises a support roller (7) rotatable about a fixed axle (9), a magnetic element (3), a hysteresis element (2) and an adjusting device for adjusting the position of the magnetic element (3) and hysteresis element (2) relative to one another and for adjusting the braking torque acting via the support roller (7) on the yarn (5). The magnetic hysteresis brake (1) has only one single mechanically acting actuator (18) for adjusting the braking torque. Both the adjustment of the braking torque to the desired value for the operation of the brake (1) and the adjustment of the braking torque when calibrating the brake (1) are carried out by actuation of this one actuator (18). The structure and handling of the magnetic hysteresis brake (1) can be simplified thereby. The magnetic hysteresis brake (1) can be used to maintain a uniform thread tension on textile machines.
US07946396B2 Twin rotor disc brake
A caliper for a fixed twin rotor disc brake includes a relatively fixed body, two yokes movable axially with respect to the body, formations defined on the yokes for receiving four brake pads for respective application to rotor sides, and an actuator adapted to urge the yokes relatively axially. One of the yokes is operable to urge two of the four brake pads in a first axial direction, the other of the yokes is operable to urge the other two of the four brake pads in a second, opposite axial direction. The four brake pads are positioned on a first side of the actuator in the first axial direction.
US07946394B2 System and method for aircraft braking system usage monitoring
The system and method for monitoring wear of one or more aircraft parts, such as an aircraft brake, an aircraft tire, a standby system, and landing gear. One or more sensors are provided for sensing a parameter of usage, and an estimate of usage of the part can be determined based upon the signal indicating the sensed value of the parameter of usage of the aircraft part. A plurality of sensors can be provided for sensing usage of a plurality of parts of the aircraft, and the estimate of usage of the part can be stored for access of the estimate by ground personnel. As applied to monitoring wear of an aircraft brake, a linear brake wear indicator attached to the brake moves a discrete distance when the brake is actuated, and a linear position encoder measures the distance traveled by the linear brake wear indicator as an indication of brake usage. A wheel speed monitor may also be provided for measuring the aircraft wheel speed, for distinguishing between static brake applications and moving brake applications, based upon the wheel speed signal.
US07946384B2 Acoustical and firewall barrier assembly
The present invention provides an acoustical firewall attenuating assembly. The assembly includes a first frame assembly having a first plate, a second plate and a first plurality of elongate members spaced from one another and extending between the first plate and the second plate. A structure is spaced from the first frame assembly and has an outer surface. A cement wall is positioned between the first frame and the structure and is attached to at least the first frame assembly by a first vibration dampener.
US07946368B2 Agricultural machine having dedicated multi-section fan unit
A fan unit for an agricultural machine includes a fan housing configured to define a plurality of fan chambers. Each fan chamber of the plurality of fan chambers has a respective air inlet port and a respective air outlet port. A shaft is rotatably mounted to the fan housing. The shaft has an axis of rotation that intersects the plurality of fan chambers. A plurality of fans is attached to the shaft for rotation with the shaft. Each fan of the plurality of fans is located in a separate respective fan chamber of the plurality of fan chambers.
US07946350B2 System and method for deploying optical fiber
A technique is provided for utilizing optical fiber in a well environment. A well system is combined with a tube-in-tube system designed to protect one or more internal optical fibers. The tube-in-tube system has an entry at one end and a turn around at an opposite end to enable fluid flow between a flow passage within an inner tube and a flow passage within an annulus between the inner tube and a surrounding outer tube. An optical fiber is deployed in and protected by the tube-in-tube system.
US07946347B2 Injection valve
A valve for use in a downhole tool The valve has an inlet communicating with the work string from which it is anchored. The inlet provides a flow path of a first cross-sectional area. A sealing assembly comprising a spring biased seal cap moves within an outer tubular body to open and close a number of ports arranged through the body. The ports provide a flow path of a combined cross-sectional area greater than the first cross-sectional area and the valve is arranged such that fluid flow through the inlet moves the seal cap to open the valve and create an unimpeded flow path between the inlet and the ports with negligible pressure drop. An embodiment including a shear ring is described to facilitate pressure testing above. A further embodiment includes a load adjuster to assist in closing the valve. The valve can be a high lift injection valve.
US07946341B2 Systems and methods for distributed interferometric acoustic monitoring
Acoustic monitoring of a conduit, a wellbore or a reservoir associated with hydrocarbon production or transportation and/or carbon dioxide sequestration is carried out using a fibre optic cable extending along or appurtenant to it as a distributed interferometer. Coherent Raleigh noise generated by the transmission of the coherent beam of radiation through the fiber optic is detected and processed to identify an acoustic occurrence.
US07946340B2 Method and apparatus for orchestration of fracture placement from a centralized well fluid treatment center
A method and apparatus for orchestrating multiple fractures at multiple well locations in a region by flowing well treatment fluid from a centralized well treatment fluid center includes the steps of configuring a well treatment fluid center for fracturing multiple wells, inducing a fracture at a first well location, measuring effects of stress fields from the first fracture, determining a time delay based in part upon the measured stress effects, inducing a second fracture after the time delay at a second location based upon the measured effects, and measuring the stress effects of stress fields from the second fracture. Sensors disposed about the region are adapted to output effects of the stress fields. Location and orientation of subsequent fractures is based on the combined stress effects of the stress fields as a result of the prior fractures which provides for optimal region development.
US07946333B1 Detachable insect screen system involving a zipper
The invention is a detachable insect screen system that uses a zipper as the attaching means of the detachable panel. The insect screen system also incorporates a permanent panel that encompasses the detachable panel. The permanent panel connects to the surrounding structure and has an opening with the corresponding teeth for the zipper assembly. An alternative embodiment may use a plurality of snap buttons, hook and grommets, or hook and loop fastening means, as opposed to a zipper in order to make ingress and egress of the insect screen assembly.
US07946329B2 Automated system for manufacturing part of fuel cell stack
The present invention realizes an automated system which automatically performs all processes including an inputting process, a bonding process, and a punching process using a robot in manufacturing an integrated part of an MEA and GDLs. Accordingly, with the automated system, it is possible to improve productivity and ensure consistent product quality.
US07946327B2 Knife blade guard locking mechanism for use in conjunction with the sealing tape application rollers of a tape roll dispensing cartridge assembly of a case sealing machine
A knife blade guard locking mechanism, for use in conjunction with the sealing tape application rollers of a tape cartridge assembly of a case sealing machine, is adapted to be operatively connected to a spring biasing mechanism of the sealing tape application rollers such that when the sealing tape application rollers are disposed at their inoperative positions, the knife blade guard locking mechanism is disposed at its locked position so as to effectively cover the knife blade in order to protect personnel from being accidentally cut. Conversely, when the sealing tape application rollers are disposed at their operative positions, the knife blade guard locking mechanism is automatically unlocked so as to permit the knife blade to be uncovered in order to perform its sealing tape cutting operation.
US07946324B2 Run flat device for a motor vehicle, and a wheel assembly incorporating it
The present invention relates to a run flat device for fitting to a tubeless wheel assembly for a motor vehicle, and to such a wheel assembly incorporating the device.A device of the invention comprises: an annular cover support structure subdivided into at least two ring sectors that are circumferentially juxtaposed; and locking means for locking the beads against the flanges to connect the support structure to the beads. According to the invention, the sectors are interconnected by connection means comprising a male member secured to one of the circumferential ends of each sector and removably mounted in a female member formed in the facing end of the adjacent sector, the male member comprising a projection that is terminated by an anchor tab, the female member being formed by a slot having a radially-lower zone and a radially-upper zone of widths that are respectively greater than and less the width of the tab, the upper zone being adapted to receive said projection axially locked in a position for anchoring the tab.
US07946322B2 Interchangeable bag and cover system
An interchangeable bag and cover system is provided that comprises a body with a first connection portion. A first securing mechanism is coupled to the body. A plurality of covers are interchangeably connectable to the body. Each cover has a second connection portion releasably attachable to the first connection portion of the body, wherein the cover is moveable relative to the body between open position and closed positions. Each cover has a free end portion positionable adjacent to the body when the cover is in the close position. Each cover has a second securing mechanism configured to releasably engage the first securing mechanism to retain the cover in the closed position.
US07946321B2 Method of holding a veneer sheet
The present invention is directed to a method of holding a veneer sheet which has been dried to a moisture content lower than the fiber saturation point and also heated to a temperature higher than an ambient temperature of an environment where the veneer sheet is held. The veneer sheet is bent in such way that at least a part of the veneer sheet in the longitudinal section thereof along the grain direction is curved and the same veneer sheet in any transverse section thereof perpendicular to the grain direction is substantially straight. The veneer sheet held bent is held for a predetermined period of time.
US07946314B1 Power pliers for twisting wires
Power driven pliers are capable of twisting the ends of a plurality of electrical wires together to make an electrical and mechanical connection therebetween. The pliers include first and second jaws and first and second handles. The jaws and handles are pivotally connected to each other at a pivot point such that movement of said handles toward each other moves said jaws toward each other. A rotatable chuck is carried by one of the jaws and has a central opening adapted to have a plurality of wire ends insertable therein. A portion of the chuck is moveable between an inoperable position wherein the wire ends can be inserted into the opening and an operative position wherein the chuck tightly grasps the wire ends. An electrical motor carried by the pliers and connected to the chuck is capable of rotating the chuck. An electrical switch is carried by the pliers and is located so as to be pressed by a user's thumb while holding the pliers. When the switch is activated, the electrical motor rotates the chuck to twist the wire ends together.
US07946304B2 Dish washing machine having sump with drainage channel to remove wash water
A dish washing machine capable of smoothly discharging dirt contained in wash water out of a sump so as to prevent the emission of bad smells from the dirt and prevent the propagation of bacteria. The dish washing machine includes a sump to receive and pump wash water, a sump housing forming an external appearance of the sump, a drainage pump coupled with the sump housing to discharge wash water and dirt, and a drainage channel disposed in the sump housing to guide wash water and dirt to the drainage pump.
US07946293B2 Cigarette lighter and method
A lighter for a smoking article is provided, which includes a body having a distal body portion and a proximal body portion; an ignition element disposed in the distal portion; a smoking article engagement structure disposed in the proximal body portion; a part of the proximal body portion that is configured for exerting a vacuum upon a smoking article retained by the smoking article engagement structure; and an exhaust port in fluid communication with the part of the proximal body portion that is configured for exerting a vacuum. A method is also provided, which includes the steps of: providing a lighter including a distal ignition means and a proximal means for exertion of a vacuum upon a smoking article; placing a smoking article with its lighting end proximate the distal ignition means and its mouth end in fluid communication with the proximal means for exertion of a vacuum; actuating the proximal means for exertion of a vacuum and the distal ignition means until the lighting end is ignited; and removing the smoking article from the lighter for consumption by a smoker.
US07946287B2 Hybrid photovoltaic concentrating system with corrected total reflection reflectors for very large concentrating ratios
Solar concentrator system(s) that include parabolic Total Reflection Reflectors with corrected Curved Rectangular Total Reflection Prisms are provided. The corrected Curved Rectangular Total Reflection Prisms remove optical imperfections of diffusion typically present at conventional rectangular prisms of conventional parabolic and paraboloid TRR, and enable accurate focusing and high concentration ratios. A variation of the corrected Curved Rectangular Total Reflection Prisms allows the construction of a corrected solar wave guide with total reflection walls (Solar Artery), which enables the removal of the diffusion (and losses) typically present at conventional Hollow Solar Wave Guides, and increase by one or more orders of magnitude the light-propagation range of Solar Arteries for the same level of losses. The solar concentrator system(s) can enable production of both thermal and electric power, and delivery of solar radiation to the interior of a building for replacement of artificial lighting with solar lighting.
US07946286B2 Tracking fiber optic wafer concentrator
A solar power system for supplying concentrated solar energy. The system includes a cylindrical absorber tube carrying the working fluid and a concentrator assembly, which includes an array of linear lenses such as Fresnel lenses. The concentrator assembly includes a planar optical wafer paired with each of the linear lenses to direct light, which the lenses focus on a first edge of the wafers, onto the collector via a second or output edge of the wafers. Each of the optical wafers is formed from a light transmissive material and acts as a light “pipe.” The lens array is spaced apart a distance from the first edges of the optical wafers. This distance or lens array height is periodically adjusted to account for seasonal changes in the Sun's position, such that the focal point of each linear lens remains upon the first edge of one of the optical wafers yearlong.
US07946283B2 Toy gun mechanism with a sliding bolt assembly
The present invention relates to a toy gun mechanism with a sliding bolt assembly that closely resembles a real gun when the toy gun is fired and comprises a housing, a motor, a gear assembly, a bolt assembly, a trigger assembly and a latch. The gear assembly is mounted in the housing and is connected to and driven by the motor. The bolt assembly is mounted slidably in the housing and is selectively moved to a cocked position by the gear assembly. The trigger assembly releases the bolt assembly and drives air from the bolt assembly as the bolt assembly moves forward.
US07946281B2 Balanced pulley assembly for compound archery bows, and bows incorporating that assembly
A compound bow includes a first and second pulley, each of which is operative, when the bow is drawn, to unwind a portion of a bow string from a bow string groove and to take up a portion of a bow cable so as to decrease its effective length. At least one of the pulleys includes a cable controller which operates to modify the rate at which the effective length of the bow cable is decreasing so that during an initial portion of the draw of the bow, the rate is greater than it would be in the absence of the controller, and during a second portion of the draw, the rate is less than it would be in the absence of the controller. Use of the controller provides a bow which has an inherently balanced draw.
US07946280B2 Method for the operation of an internal combustion engine
The invention deals with a method for the operation of an internal combustion engine with at least two cylinders, which can be operated with a fuel of variable quality stored in a tank and/or with fuel blends stored in the tank from a first and at least a second fuel in variable mixing ratios, and wherein variable fuel qualities and/or fuel blends of different compositions require variable air/fuel ratios for the achievement of a stable combustion and/or have a variable vaporization behavior. Provision is, thereby, made for a variation, which is individually adjusted to each cylinder, of the quantity of fuel delivered to the cylinder to be implemented to supply a lean and/or to a rich air/fuel mixture at least one cylinder, for the effect of the variation on the starting characteristics and/or the running smoothness of the cylinder and/or the internal combustion engine to be evaluated and when an improvement in the starting characteristics and/or the running smoothness is achieved, for a fuel adaptation to be implemented for all cylinders. The method makes the quick detection and the avoidance of starting problems possible, when a change in the fuel quality or in the fuel composition occurs with an effect on the ignitability of the fuel.
US07946275B2 Extending variable displacement operation through spark knock control
A control system comprising a spark knock detection module that detects a spark knock in an engine of a hybrid vehicle, and a torque control module that selectively regulates an engine torque output and an electric machine torque output based on the spark knock. A method comprising detecting a spark knock in an engine of a hybrid vehicle, and selectively regulating an engine torque output and an electric machine torque output based on the spark knock.
US07946273B2 Fuel system for multi-fuel engine
An engine system and corresponding control method are described. As one example, the control method includes transferring one type of fuel from one fuel tank to a second fuel tank holding another type of fuel and adjusting an engine operating parameter based on the blended fuel mixture by selective operation of a first and second fuel pump.
US07946262B2 Lifter oil manifold assembly for variable activation and deactivation of valves in an internal combustion engine
A lifter oil manifold assembly for variable actuation of engine valves having first (top) and second (valve) plates having portions of oil control and oil exhaust passages formed therein. The assembly further includes a carrier member having an oil supply passage integrated thereby separating the oil supply path from the oil control and oil exhaust path. Further, the assembly includes towers for receiving and positioning the electro-magnetic oil control valves used to control oil flow in the assembly. The towers are molded separate from the carrier and are held in place by the valve plate or are molded integral with the carrier. In another aspect of the invention, oil control valve retention springs are molded integral with either the tower or the oil control valve. In a further aspect of the invention, a combined polymer restrictor/strainer in the oil circuit replaces a prior art metal die-cast restrictor.
US07946259B2 Multi-stroke internal combustion engine
An engine system and method of its operation are described. The method includes: operating the combustion chamber in a four stroke cycle by repeatedly opening a first exhaust valve of the combustion chamber once every four piston strokes while holding closed a second exhaust valve of the combustion chamber; after operating the combustion chamber in the four stroke cycle, operating the combustion chamber in a two stroke cycle by repeatedly opening the first exhaust valve once every four piston strokes and repeatedly opening the second exhaust valve once every four piston strokes during a different exhaust stroke than the first exhaust valve; and after operating the combustion chamber in the two stroke cycle, operating the combustion chamber in the four stroke cycle by repeatedly opening the second exhaust valve of the combustion chamber once every four piston strokes while holding closed the first exhaust valve of the combustion chamber.
US07946249B2 Nectar feeder with float and valve
The present invention is a nectar feeder for birds. The nectar feeder has a container for storing nectar feed. A base tray is attached to the container and connected in fluid communication with the container. A float is positioned between the container and the base tray. A ball is positioned on the float. The ball regulates the fluid communication between the container and the base tray. In operation, the nectar feed flows through the container and into the base tray until the float rises to a level where the ball prevents fluid from flowing into the base tray.
US07946245B2 Device for the hot-dip coating of a metal strip
The invention relates to a device for the hot-dip coating of a metal strip (1), more particularly of a steel band, in which the metal strip (1) is guided vertically through a container (3) containing the molten coating metal (2) and through an upstream guide channel (6), in the vicinity of which, on both sides of the metal strip (1), are arranged at least two inductors (8) for generating an electromagnetic field for holding the coating metal (2) in the container (3), a furnace chamber (9), which contains guide means and has a protective gas atmosphere, being located upstream of the guide channel (6). In order to ensure a good, durable seal between the guide channel (6) and the furnace chamber (9) under the established conditions, the invention proposes that a gas-tight, heat-resistant and flexible seal (13) be arranged between the furnace chamber (9) and the guide channel (6).
US07946244B2 Assured grounding identifier
An assured grounding identifier includes a base unit connectable to an electrical cord, one or more indicators selectively adjustably mounted to the base unit and having colored regions, and a cover with one or more viewing windows aligned with the indicators. An assured grounding identifier includes a housing with a viewing window and a slot mountable around an electrical cord, an indicator having a plurality of colored regions disposed between the housing and the cord, and a tab extending from the indicator through the slot for positioning the indicator to align a selected colored region with the viewing window. An assured grounding identifier includes one or more indicators having a plurality of translucent color coded segments and an indicator light aligned with a viewing window to illuminate through the translucent color coded segments.
US07946241B2 Methods and apparatus for marine deployment
Methods and apparatus for marine deployment according to various aspects of the present invention may operate in conjunction with a floatable housing adapted to be deployed by a marine vehicle. The floatable housing may be adapted to be launched from a marine vehicle and rise to the surface. Assets, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle, may be deployed from the surfaced floatable housing.
US07946234B2 Sewing machine
A sewing machine includes a needle, a needle bar which supports the needle, an upper feeding foot operable to feed the workpiece interlockingly with an up and down movement of the needle bar, a presser foot operable to press the workpiece, a holding bar which supports the presser foot, an actuator including an operating member operable to be changed to a first state, a second state or a no-load state, and a connecting portion which couples the operating member and the holding bar. The holding bar is constantly biased downward by a biasing force. The actuator moves the presser foot up against the first biasing force when the operating member is in the first state, and moves the presser foot down when the operating member is in the second state.
US07946231B2 Single arm row cleaner
A single arm row cleaner unit mountable to a grain drill opener arm includes a row cleaner arm and a mounting saddle. The mounting saddle is generally configured for attachment to a main arm of a furrow forming assembly. A row cleaner arm may be pivotally attached to the mounting saddle about a mandrel, and a row cleaner wheel may be pivotally mounted to the row cleaner arm. A biasing member may be positioned adjacent the mandrel to engage the row cleaner arm and a biasing member retainer, which may be affixed to the mounting saddle. A deflector may be positioned adjacent the row cleaner wheel and biased there against. A connector and lever arm may be used to communicate forces from a closing wheel arm to the row cleaner wheel for adequate clearance of the row cleaner wheel during transport of the grain drill.
US07946228B2 Self contained non toxic obscurant grenade and self-contained aerosol dispersing grenade
A self-contained grenade capable of dispersing a non-toxic obscurant composition, or various types of aerosol compositions such as pesticides or antimicrobial/sanitizing agents, is provided. The obscurant or other type of aerosol composition via an exothermic reaction. Release of the obscurant or other type of aerosol composition is effected in a controlled manner by creating heat via a heat producing composition comprising, for example, a thermite composition. The obscurant or other type of aerosol composition is absorbed into a heat transfer media disposed adjacent the heat producing composition. When the exothermic reaction occurs, the heat transfer media transfers the heat to the absorbed material, thereby providing a regulated thermal dispersion of same.
US07946221B2 Basting apparatus
An automatic basting apparatus is provided. The apparatus has a base that defines a cavity. A basting fluid dispensing member is present and defines a passageway in communication with the cavity. The basting fluid dispensing member is rigid. The basting fluid dispensing member is configured for dispensing basting fluid out of an outlet of the passageway at an end of the basting fluid dispensing member. The outlet is oriented to have a component in both the horizontal direction and vertical direction.
US07946208B1 Ejection system for deploying a store
According to one embodiment, an ejection system for deploying a store includes a first cartridge actuated device coupled to a first release mechanism, a second cartridge actuated device coupled to a second release mechanism, and a controller circuit coupled to the first and second cartridge actuated devices. The first and second release mechanisms are configured to eject the store away from a vehicle. The controller circuit is operable to detonate the second cartridge actuated device at a specified period of time after the first cartridge actuated device is detonated.
US07946197B2 Breaker racking tool
Disclosed is a racking tool for use with a breaker having a frontwardly-projecting racking screw, the screw being rotatable, about a frontwardly-orientated screw axis, between connected and disconnected positions. The racking tool comprises: a gripping tool that, in use, engages said screw and is rotatable about the screw axis to drive the screw between the connected and disconnected positions; an angle drive mechanism coupled to the gripping tool: and a shaft having a first end operatively coupled to the drive mechanism, a second end and a shaft axis extending from the first to the second end, the shaft, in use, being angularly orientated to the screw axis and adapted such that, with the gripping tool engaged with said racking screw, the screw can be rotated between the connected and disconnected positions by a user standing to one side of the breaker and rotating the shaft about its axis.
US07946191B2 Accelerator pedal system
An accelerator pedal system includes a vehicle speed sensor outputting a vehicle speed signal, an accelerator pedal, and a switch that generates a signal corresponding to at least one predetermined speed and a selected mode. An engine management system receives the signals from the vehicle speed sensor and the switch. A pedal control unit receives the vehicle speed signal and the switch signal, and outputs a control signal if a vehicle speed exceeds the predetermined speed. A reaction device is physically attached to the accelerator pedal and electrically connected to the pedal control unit. The reaction device applies force to the accelerator pedal based on the control signal.
US07946190B2 Shift rocker arrangement for a shift transmission
A shift rocker arrangement for a transmission including a two-arm bracket shift rocker that extends around a transmission element to be shifted and is supported by pivot bearings on the arms of the bracket within a transmission housing to pivot about an axis located essentially in the plane of the bracket. The shift rocker has bearing elements formed on the bracket arms and complementary bearing shells are formed on the inside wall of the closed housing. The bearing shells that support the bearing elements of the shift rocker are either formed on a bearing bar, which is supported at both ends by the housing, or they are formed directly on inside walls of the housing.
US07946168B2 Acoustic volume indicator
Acoustic volume indicators for determining liquid or gas volume within a container comprise a contactor to vibrate a container wall, a detector to receive vibration data from the container wall, a processor to convert vibration data to frequency information and compare the frequency information to characteristic container frequency vs. volume data to obtain the measured volume, and an indicator for displaying the measured volume. The processor may comprise a microprocessor disposed within a housing having lights that each represent a particular volume. The microprocessor is calibrated to provide an output signal to a light that indicates the container volume. The processor may comprise a computer and computer program that converts the data to frequency information, analyzes the frequency information to identify a peak frequency, compares the peak frequency to the characteristic frequency vs. volume data to determine the measured volume, and displays the measured volume on a video monitor.
US07946159B2 Method and device for automatically measuring oil consumption of an internal combustion engine and for changing the oil of said engine
A method for measuring an amount of oil consumed by an internal combustion engine including an oil pan for supplying lubricating fluid. The method: causes the gravitational flow of the oil contained in the engine oil pan, from the oil pan towards a measuring tank; measures and stores a first value of the oil volume contained in the measuring tank; subjects the oil contained in the measuring tank to a pressurized gas thrust causing the rise of the oil from the measuring tank towards the oil pan; and repeats the preceding method at least once to obtain a second value of the oil volume contained in the tank.
US07946157B2 Method and device to measure, test and/or monitor turbine performance
A set of data is measured reliably and accurately to test, operate and/or monitor the performance of turbines. It is proposed to determine the performance parameters of a turbine applicable to its entire operating envelope and for a condition when it is producing net output power, by measuring its characteristic performance parameters in the mode of no net output-power production.
US07946145B2 Method and apparatus for blowing out and/or for spraying dies of a forging press
In a method for blowing out and/or for spraying dies (3, 5), arranged at the top and/or bottom, of forging presses, in particular drop forging presses, comprising automatic workpiece transport by means of a transport lifting beam (8) provided with gripping devices (9) and comprising a mechanical blow-out and spray device (11; 10) which is introduced into the tool space (1) of the forging press and is withdrawn again from the latter, a spray lifting beam (11) provided with spray devices (10) is moved into the tool space (1) synchronously with the lifting and removal movement of the transport lifting beam (8), but independently of the latter, while the transport lifting beam (8) lifts a workpiece (6) produced in a preceding forging operation and removes it from the tool space (1), wherein the spray devices (10) are actuated within the tool space and the forging dies (3, 5) are lubricated and/or cooled close to the contour. An apparatus used for this purpose is distinguished by the fact that a separate spray lifting beam (11) formed with spray devices (10) that can be actuated temporarily is assigned to the transport lifting beam (8), wherein the drives of the two lifting beams (8; 11) are synchronized with opposed sequences of movement via an automatic lifting beam mechanism and the lifting beams (8; 11) are connected for their activation to a common open-loop and closed-loop control device (12).
US07946140B2 Washing machine using steam and method for controlling the same
A washing machine using steam and a method for controlling the same is disclosed. The washing machine with a steam generator (100) selectively supplying steam inot a drum (30) according to the present invention includes a course select part (420) for a user to select a wash course, a steam select part (430) for a user to select whether steam washing is operated and a controller (440) for controlling the steam generator (100) based on a wash course selected from the course select part (420) (an inputted wash course) and a signal selected from the steam select part (430). The present invention has an advantageous effect that convenience is improved for a user to use the washing machine using steam as well as washing performance is improved, because disadvantages due to malfunctions of a steam generator are prevented.
US07946138B2 Adjustable positioning apparatus for cooling members
An apparatus for adjusting the cooling members located beneath fiberizing bushings is disclosed having the capability of moving each cooling member, or one portion of each cooling member, in a generally vertical direction, and/or in a lateral and/or tilting direction. Also disclosed is a process of using the apparatus to make fibers from molten material including molten glass.
US07946137B2 Long period fiber Bragg gratings written with alternate side IR laser illumination
A method of optical fiber manufacture involves the writing of a grating on the fiber using a laser. A first laser beam is directed on a first locality of the fiber having a circumference. A second laser beam is then directed on a second locality circumferentially displaced from the first locality. The first laser beam may be the second laser beam. In this way, a grating is formed on the fiber. The fiber may have a core and a cladding layer. The fiber may also comprise two gratings to form an interferometer.
US07946132B2 Method for manufacturing optical fiber preform and optical fiber preform apparatus
A method for manufacturing an optical fiber preform and an optical fiber preform apparatus are provided which can reduce hydroxyl groups in an optical fiber preform to a sufficient level without requiring any special equipment or operating conditions. When an optical fiber preform is manufactured by the vapor-phase deposition method, the dehydrating treatment is performed on a porous core preform that is obtained by depositing glass microparticles. In this treatment, a dehydrating agent is supplied to a dehydration apparatus through a feeding pipe and a main feeding pipe made of a material having a water permeance factor of 1.0×10−11 g·cm/cm2·s·cmHg or less, thereby manufacturing an optical fiber preform.
US07946124B2 Temperature controlled storage facilities and methods
A temperature controlled storage facility includes a room having an enclosed structure, and a plurality of multi-level storage zones within the room. Each of the storage zones include a supply of temperature controlled air having two outlets, one outlet positioned adjacent to a top area of the storage area, and a second outlet positioned adjacent to an aisle, wherein pressure barriers are created to prevent air flow from migrating to other storage areas or to a return duct without cooling (or heating) all of the inventory in the storage zone.
US07946119B2 Sealing arrangement
An arrangement for sealing an opening formed in a wall for receiving a member. The arrangement comprises a sealing member with a passage, and the sealing member is moveably mounted on the wall adjacent to the opening such that the sealing member passage is substantially co-axial with the opening in the wall. Biasing means for biasing the sealing member towards the wall are also provided.
US07946117B2 Onboard method of determining EGR flow rate
A method of determining and regulating a mass flow rate exhaust gases recirculated into an engine is disclosed. The method may comprise directing the exhaust gases through a venturi and sensing a differential exhaust pressure across the venturi. The method may further include sensing an absolute exhaust pressure at the venturi, and sensing a temperature of the exhaust gases. The method may further include determining the mass flow rate of the exhaust based on the sensed differential fluid pressure, absolute fluid pressure, and temperature.
US07946110B2 System for assisting the regeneration of depollution means included in a motor vehicle exhaust line
In a system for assisting the regeneration of depollution apparatus associated with an oxidation catalyst implementing an OSC function, constituting a supply of oxygen and integrated in an exhaust line of a motor vehicle diesel engine, in which the engine is associated with a common rail for feeding its cylinders with fuel, the running conditions of the vehicle are analyzed and compared with predetermined threshold values, to control the engine in a first regeneration mode of operation with a lean mixture when running conditions are above the threshold values, or in a second regeneration operating mode implementing sequences in which engine operation alternates between stages of rich mixture operation and of lean mixture operation when conditions are below the threshold values.
US07946104B2 Bleed air relief system for engines
A bleed air relief system for engines in which a flow of bleed air from the engine compressor is passed along a bleed air duct and exhausted into a bypass air stream passing through the engine. A cover is mounted over the outlet of the bleed air duct and can include flow passages and a diffuser for controlling the flow of bleed air being exhausted to enhance mixing of the bleed air with the bypass air stream.
US07946093B1 Height-adjustable tile spacers
A system to aid in the setting of tile work comprising tile spacers located at the corner of a tile to keep a tile evenly spaced from other tiles. The tile spacers each comprise a circular-shaped disk with integrally-molded spacer tabs in a variety of orientations, thus allowing use of the spacer against another wall, in a corner or a similar location. Each tile spacer is designed to remain in place after the tile is set and be covered with grout, thus making it invisible after the installation is complete. Finally, the tile spacer is provided with a threaded center hole designed to accommodate a threaded stem with permanently attached wing nut. The user can then tighten or loosen the bolt to raise or lower the tile spacer and subsequently the adjacent tile to an equal elevation. The threaded stem is simply removed after the tile has set, making for an invisible and effective installation.
US07946090B1 Concrete wall and forming system therefore
A system of making self-aligning concrete block structures. Structure is made of interlinking blocks that have insulative foam that is affixed during the molding process. The interior surface of the blocks is specifically designed to avoid the use of interior framing by providing wooden strips such that drywall can be directly affixed. The concrete block system include top blocks, inside and outside corner blocks, and the necessary forms for their construction.
US07946085B2 Stair stringer assembly
A stringer assembly includes a support element, a plurality of brackets and a plurality of alignment elements. The brackets are connected to the support element, and each bracket includes a rise indicator corresponding to a desired rise dimension and a run indicator corresponding to a desired run dimension. The alignment elements align the rise or run indicator on one of the brackets with the other of the rise or run indicator on an adjacent one of the brackets to space the brackets at a desired rise and run. The brackets each include a tread flange and a riser flange, such that a tread and a riser can be directly connected to each bracket. The brackets may include cutouts for a temporary tread system.
US07946075B2 Adjustable tactical gun sight
A sight for a firearm including a front sight portion and a rear sight portion. The front sight portion includes a front sight, at least one shim and a front sight and shim pocket whereby at least the elevation of the firearm can be adjusted by changing the shim. The front and rear sight portions are further provided with replaceable colored plastic inserts.
US07946071B2 Firearm vise
A firearm holding device for holding a firearm having a forend, a grip and a buttstock. The holding device comprises a base having a longitudinal axis, a forend support mounted on the base for supporting the forend of the firearm, a grip support mounted on the base for supporting the grip of the firearm, and a buttstock support mounted on the base for supporting the buttstock of the firearm. At least one of the forend support, grip support and buttstock support are moveable on the base along the longitudinal axis of the base to accommodate various sizes and types of firearms.
US07946070B1 Shooting stick apparatus
A shooting stick apparatus having a stick assembly and a system for adjusting the first and second stick members relative to each other. The stick assembly has a first stick member and a second stick member. The adjusting system has a first stick receiver and a second stick receiver pivotably coupled to the first stick receiver. A locking system is configured for locking the stick members and the stick receivers relative to each other.
US07946065B2 Closure mechanism for an identification medium adapted for receiving indicia forming material and dual closure means
A closure mechanism receiving aperture presents a substantially contiguous, uninterrupted planar surface on a flexible medium, primarily for use with identification devices, i.e., wristbands. The aperture does not interrupt the printable area so that printer ink may be printed over the aperture without passing through. The inventive aperture also does not produce waster material or chads which can jam or foul-up a printer. An inventive wristband includes both snap closure and adhesive closure mechanisms that can be used at the same time.
US07946064B2 Display apparatus with scent disperse device
A display apparatus with a scent disperse device includes a display, a stalk-shaped member, at least one leaf-shaped member, a vibrator and a sensor switch, in which the display is composed of a screen and at least one screen cover, the stalk-shaped member is disposed on the display to disperse scent outward, the leaf-shaped members are positioned around the stalk-shaped member and the vibrator is disposed in the stalk-shaped member and used for driving the leaf-shaped members to sway, and the sensor switch controls the opening and closing of the at least one screen cover and transmitting a starting signal. Whereby, a user is allowed to smell a flavor matching the appearance of the display or prefer scent.
US07946062B2 Studded footwear
An outsole for an article of studded footwear in which said outsole includes receptacles for specifically-oriented studs. The outsole also includes traction elements formed integrally with the outsole. The studs and traction elements being so constructed and arranged to interact in use of the footwear. The traction elements are designed to complement the spike configuration of the stud.
US07946059B2 Shock-absorbing system for an article of footwear
An article of footwear including an upper overlaying an outer bottom assembly, such assembly including, in the area of the heel, at least two support blocks made of a damping/shock-absorbing material and arranged on respective ones of the lateral and medial sides of the bottom assembly. Each of the support blocks extends vertically, substantially from the upper end to the lower end of the bottom assembly, the support blocks being deformable substantially independently of one another. Further, the outer bottom assembly includes an elastically deformable element that includes an upper portion that extends transversely relative to the bottom assembly and covers the upper end of each of the support elements, as well as at least two legs which extend laterally and medially, respectively, and externally cover respective ones of the support elements, substantially over their entire heights.
US07946058B2 Article of footwear having a sole structure with an articulated midsole and outsole
An article of footwear may have an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure includes a midsole and an outsole. The midsole has an upper surface and an opposite lower surface. The upper surface defines a plurality of depressions, and the lower surface defines a plurality of indentations extending toward the depressions. The outsole forms projections that extend into the indentations of the midsole, and the outsole has grooves located opposite the projections.
US07946056B2 Ambulatory hairdryer
A portable self-contained hair drying helmet is taught that has thermal storage, desiccants, a phase change material, and thin lithium ion polymer batteries to allow one to dry their hair while walking around and performing personal and household duties.
US07946049B1 Deck spacing tool
A tool for use in spacing deck boards on typically framed deck structures that is in the form of a cylindrical arm with a ½″ eye located at one end. The arm is the thickness of a desired gap between spaced decking and the eye attaches to a drills handle assembly by means of sliding the bolt, which attaches the handle assembly to the drill, through the eye of the tool and tightening the handle to the drill, thus securing the tool to the drill.
US07946038B2 Adjustable fittings for attaching support members to fluid conduits, including aircraft fuel conduits, and associated systems and methods
Adjustable fittings for attaching support members to fluid conduits, including aircraft fuel conduits, are disclosed herein. An aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a fluid conduit carried by an aircraft and a housing fixedly attached to the fluid conduit. The housing can include a first attachment feature having one of a projection extending outwardly from the housing or an aperture extending at least partially through the housing. The system further includes a support member having an attachment portion positioned proximate to the attachment feature. The attachment portion includes a support member aperture positioned over at least a portion of the first attachment feature. An adjustable fitting couples the support member to the housing. The adjustable fitting can include a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an engagement portion at the second side positioned within at least a portion of the support member aperture. The fitting can also include a second attachment feature mated with the first attachment feature. The second attachment feature includes the other one of the projection or the aperture. The second attachment feature has a center point eccentrically offset from a center point of the fitting.
US07946035B2 Method of manufacturing a hollow article
A method of manufacturing a hollow article (10) comprising the steps of cold pressing two members (30,34) to form at least one depression (32,36) in the members (30,34). Arranging the two members (30,34) in abutting relationship such that the at least one depression (32,36) defines at least one chamber between the two members (30,34). Sealing (41) the edges (40,42) of the two members (30,34) together to form a core structure (44). Positioning the core structure (44) in a mold (46) to define a cavity (48) between the external surface (50) of the core structure (44) and the internal surface (52) of the mold (46), the internal surface (52) of the mold (46) substantially defining the external shape of the hollow article (10). Filling the cavity (48) between the core structure (44) and the mold (46) with a powder material (54), sealing the open edge of the core structure (44) to the mold (46). Removing gases from the cavity (48) containing the powder material (54), applying heat and pressures to consolidate the power material to form the hollow article (10) in the cavity (46) and removing the mold (46) from the hollow article (10).
US07946031B2 Method for forming an enhanced communication cable
A cable and method of forming the cable are presented. The cable contains twisted wire pairs disposed in a cavity defined by a jacket. Each wire has a conductor and an insulator surrounding the conductor. The cable may also contain a spline that separates the twisted wire pairs. At least one of the insulators or the jacket is helically corrugated such that ridges extend radially inward or outward. The ridges of the insulators may be the same or different. The cable is extruded from an extruder. The jacket may contain corrugations after being extruded by the extruder. The cable may be passed through dies to form a helically corrugated jacket. The jacket heated by a heater prior to being passed through the dies, or may pass through the dies while still hot from the extruder.
US07946023B2 Method and apparatus for measuring compression in a stator core
The present invention a method and apparatus for measuring the compression of a stator core 10 that comprises attaching a measuring device 22 to a tensioner 20, placing the tensioner on an end of a through-bolt 12 of the stator core, and performing at least one act of tensioning the stator core 10 with the tensioner. Then measuring a compression state of the stator core by the measuring device registers determining the amount of relative compression achieved by the act of tensioning, the relative compression is the amount of actual compression of the core and the amount of stretch of the through-bolt. Finally determining an actual compression state of the stator core based on the measuring.
US07945993B2 Withdrawing mechanism
A withdrawing mechanism includes a striker disposed on one of a swingable member and a main body, a catcher disposed on the other of the swingable member and the main body, and a damper for applying a damping force to a turning operation of the catcher toward a turned position. The catcher includes a casing, a rotational plate having a hooking groove for catching the striker therein, and a spring attached between an attaching portion of the rotational plate and a fixing portion of the casing to pull and rotate the rotational plate.When the rotation plate catches the striker, the rotational plate rotates in a direction to pull the spring, and when the attaching portion passes a position on a linear line extending the attaching portion, rotational center of the rotational plate and fixing portion, the rotational plate is pulled to move the rotational plate to the turned position.
US07945990B2 Vacuum hose storage system
A vacuum hose storage system includes a housing which is mounted in a storage area of a dwelling or vehicle and connected to a vacuum source. A length of flexible, expandable cleaning hose is mounted in a looped fashion about a plurality of spaced rollers rotatably mounted within the housing. A handle is attached to one end of the hose and is seated in a cradle formed in the housing when the hose is in a fully retracted position within the housing. The cradle is mounted in the housing and receives the open end of the hose when not in use and enables other vacuum tubes in the structure to be operational without shutting off the vacuum to the stored hose. An ON/OFF switch is located in the cradle for controlling the vacuum source and is actuated when the handle is placed in or removed from the cradle. The hose has an internal helical spring which biases the hose toward a retracted position about the spaced rollers within the housing.
US07945986B2 Wiper blade
The present invention relates to a wiper blade mounted to a wiper apparatus for a vehicle to wipe a windshield and having an improved coupling structure of a connector for coupling a wiper frame to a wiper arm. An object of the present invention is to provide a wiper blade, which has a wiper frame formed to have elasticity, thereby being simple in structure, and has a connector, which is to be coupled with a wiper arm and is more accurately and securely coupled with the wiper frame. According to the present invention for achieving the above object, there is provided a wiper blade according to the present invention comprises a wiper strip in contact with the windshield, the wiper strip having a rail groove formed; a wiper frame having a coupling slit to be coupled with the rail groove and a coupling aperture formed in an end of the coupling slit, the wiper frame being curved along its lengthwise direction to provide an elastic force for bring the wiper strip into close contact with the windshield; and a connector to be coupled with the wiper frame and coupled to a wiper arm, wherein the wiper strip is arranged perpendicular to the windshield and coupled with the wiper frame to be inclined with respect thereto, and the connector has an inclined coupling structure for coupling the wiper frame to the wiper arm.
US07945983B1 Floor wipe for use with foot
A floor wipe is provided in the general shape of a human foot and has a floor contact side and a foot contact side where a user would place their foot on the foot contact side of the device and manipulate the device about the floor to clean an area of the floor. The device has a first cleaning area, having a first characteristic, such as absorbency, about a toe placement end of the device and a second cleaning area, having a second characteristic, such as scouring, which is unique from the characteristic of the first cleaning area, about a heel placement end of the device. The foot contact side has structural configuration elements which resist the foot of the user from slipping there along during usage. These structural configuration elements include embroidery in the shape of human toes at the toe placement end of the device.