Document Document Title
US08102127B2 Hybrid gas discharge lamp-LED lighting system
A lighting system and method combine at least one LED and at least one gas discharge lamp within a common housing. The lighting system includes a control system to dependently operate each LED and each gas discharge lamp during overlapping, non-identical periods of time. In at least one embodiment, the control system can provide light output by activating LEDs during gas discharge preheating operations and thus extend the useful life of each gas discharge lamp. When dimming the lighting system, the control system can reduce current to the gas discharge lamps and one or more gas discharge lamps can be phased out as dimming levels decrease. As dimming levels decrease, one or more of the LEDs can be activated or groups of LEDs can be phased in to replace the light output of the dimmed gas discharge lamps. Thus, the lighting system can reduce power consumption at low dimming levels.
US08102117B2 Isolation mask for fine line display
An electroluminescent panel having a front electrode overlying a translucent sheet, a phosphor layer overlying the front electrode, a dielectric layer overlying the phosphor layer, and a rear electrode overlying the dielectric layer, the electroluminescent panel further includes a mask layer between the front electrode and the phosphor layer, wherein the mask layer is patterned to define graphics optically and electrically. A layer other than the mask layer can also be patterned.
US08102113B2 Quinoxaline-containing compounds and polymers thereof
There is provided a quinoxaline-containing compound represented by the following formula (I); wherein Ar1 represents a substituted or unsubstituted monovalent aromatic group; and R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, or a substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl group.
US08102110B2 Lamp with outer bulb
A lamp with an outer bulb in which a base (30) includes a base main body (32) having a contact terminal (31) electrically connected with a receptacle and an attaching member (33) fitted to the base main body (32) in a state of retaining the lamp main body (10) and an outer bulb (20), the attaching member (33) has an insertion hole (34) formed therethrough for inserting and retaining a pinch seal (14), and a flange (36) for abutment with the opening end (21) of the outer bulb formed at the outer peripheral surface (35) thereof, and a joint portion (40) is formed for engaging the outer peripheral surface of the attaching member (33) and the inner peripheral surface (23) of the outer bulb (21). An adhesive injection port (38) is opened to the bottom of the attaching member for filling the adhesive to the joint portion (40) in a state of mounting the outer bulb, thereby improving the commercial value by making the adhesive deposited to the insertion hole portion invisible externally, as well as preventing the outer bulb from detachment and mitigating inventory control depending on the type of the bases.
US08102107B2 Light-emitting devices having excited sulfur medium by inductively-coupled electrons
A light-emitting device having an excited sulfur medium by inductively-coupled electrons is provided. This device includes a substrate, an energy transmission coil disposed over the substrate, a transparent discharge cavity disposed over the energy transmission coil, having a substantially planar top and bottom surface, and a high-frequency oscillating power supply coupled to the energy transmission coil. While power up, the energy transmission coil induces an electromagnetic field within the transparent discharge cavity of the light-emitting device. In one embodiment, the transparent discharge cavity includes a sulfur-containing medium disposed within the transparent discharge cavity, and a buffer gas or a plurality of buffer gasses filling inner space of the transparent discharge cavity.
US08102105B2 Spark plug
A spark plug in which the rising of a ground electrode is more reliably restrained. The spark plug includes a ground electrode having a core portion extending from a proximal end section toward a distal end section via a bent section, a heat transfer portion extending from the proximal end section toward the distal end section via the bent section, and an external layer located externally of the core portion and the heat transfer portion and extending from the proximal end section to the distal end section via the bent section. As viewed on a section of the ground electrode taken orthogonally to a direction along which the ground electrode extends, at least at an intermediate position of the bent section with respect to the direction, the center of the core portion is offset toward a center electrode from the center of the heat transfer portion.
US08102102B2 Thin film tuning-fork type inflection resonator and electric signal processing element
A compact resonator has a wide bandwidth and a small variation of the specific vibration frequency. The resonator is a thin film tuning-fork type inflection resonator in which a thin film made of a piezoelectric material is formed on a substrate on which a lower electrode is formed, and an upper electrode is formed on the piezoelectric thin film.
US08102097B2 Electrostatic acting device including an electret film
An electrostatic acting device in which leakage of charge from an electret film is suppressed. The electrostatic acting device comprises a movable electrode section (20) having a movable electrode (22), a fixed electrode section (10) having an electret film (12) opposed to the movable section (20) at a predetermined distance and capable of storing charge and a conductive layer (14) formed on a predetermined region on the upper surface of the electret film (12), and an insulating film (13) interposed between the electret film (12) and the conductive layer (14).
US08102094B2 Device for connecting an electric motor intended for use in a fuel tank, in particular of a motor vehicle
A device for connecting an electric motor intended for use in a fuel tank, in particular of a motor vehicle, with connection contacts carbon brushes sliding over an armature of a rotor, and electrical leads arranged between the connection contacts and the carbon brushes. The electrical leads have a sheath made of polytetrafluoroethylene.
US08102093B2 Polyphase electric motor especially for driving pumps or ventilators
A polyphase motor, for example for applications for driving pumps or ventilators in the automobile industry, including a stator part excited by electric coils and a rotor exhibiting N pairs of poles that are magnetized radially in alternate senses, the stator part exhibiting wide teeth and narrow teeth extending radially from an annular ring. The wide teeth carry the coil windings and the distance between a wide tooth and a narrow tooth is greater than the width of a narrow tooth.
US08102092B2 Split cores for motor stator, motor stator, permanent magnet type synchronous motor and punching method by split core punching die
Split cores comprising laminated iron cores each having formed thereon a tooth, and a yoke and a pole piece which are connected to the tooth at both ends thereof, and arranged and connected together into an annular shape to make a stator. Both ends of the yokes and both ends of the pole pieces are displaced in one circumferential direction by laminated iron core from a top laminated layer of the iron cores of the split cores to a bottom laminated layer of the iron cores or split cores.
US08102088B2 Generating electromagnetic forces with flux feedback control
An electromagnetic actuator with flux feedback control includes two poles located on opposite sides of a soft-magnetic target. A bias flux is introduced that flows into both poles. Magnetic circuitry may be designed so that the total bias flux is independent or substantially independent of a position of the target with respect to the poles or the control flux. The electromagnetic actuator also includes flux sensors introduced into each gap between the poles and the target. The electromagnetic actuator further includes an actuator control circuit to command the current in the control coil to bring a difference between the readings of the two flux sensors to a targeted level. In some aspects, the force exerted on the actuator target in this arrangement may be proportional to the command signal regardless of the position of the actuator target, MMF drop in the soft-magnetic parts of the magnetic circuit, or the frequency.
US08102070B2 Float-type energy-generating system
The objective of the invention is to provide a float-type energy-generating system that is able to maintain the system's body stably, without listing, while sailing, even in a strong wind, while efficiently generating electricity. The system includes a hull (4) that allows the system to be suspended underwater or to float on seawater, one or more plates (6) that receive the sea wind so as to allow the hull to sail, and one or more power generators (3) that generate electricity by rotating one or more water turbines that use water as a working medium while the hull sails.
US08102067B2 Method for the operation of a wind energy plant having a wind velocity measurement device
A method for the operation of a wind energy plant, which features a wind velocity measurement device and a device for the detection of a mechanical load, with the following steps: measuring a wind velocity with the wind velocity measurement device, detecting a mechanical load with the device for the detection of a mechanical load, determining an estimated value for the wind velocity, based on the determined mechanical load, comparing the wind velocity measured by means of the wind velocity measurement device with the estimated value.
US08102065B2 Wave energy converter
A wave energy converter has a shell, a pendulum pivotally positioned in the shell, a magnet thereon, a variable inductor positioned in the shell, a pendulum adjustor for changing a center of gravity of the pendulum, a motion sensor positioned in the shell, a position sensor connected to the pendulum, a rotation sensor connected to the pendulum, and a controller connected to the motion sensor and the position sensor and the rotation sensor. The pendulum has a magnet thereon. The magnet of the pendulum oscillates adjacent the variable inductor. The variable inductor can adjust the inductive capacity.
US08102064B2 Electrical alignment mark set and method for aligning wafer stack
An electrical alignment mark set and the method for using the same is disclosed. The electrical alignment mark set includes at least a top mark and a bottom mark. The top mark includes multiple pads disposed on a top wafer and having first pads and second pads, and a monitoring via electrically connected to the first pads. The bottom mark includes a first bottom pad corresponding to the monitoring via and a second bottom pad corresponding to the second pads. Further the first bottom pad and the second bottom pad are electrically connected to each other so that the monitoring via may be electrically connected to the second pads by means of the first bottom pad when the top mark and the bottom mark are aligned with each other.
US08102063B2 Pad structure with a nano-structured coating film
A pad structure includes a copper circuit pattern on a substrate, at least a gold layer stacked on the copper circuit pattern, and a nano-structured coating film stacked on the gold layer.
US08102061B2 Semiconductor device bonding wire and wire bonding method
It is an object of the present invention to provide a copper-based bonding wire whose material cost is low, having excellent ball bondability, reliability in a heat cycle test or reflow test, and storage life, enabling an application to thinning of a wire used for fine pitch connection. The bonding wire includes a core material having copper as a main component and an outer layer which is provided on the core material and contains a metal M and copper, in which the metal M differs from the core material in one or both of components and composition. The outer layer is 0.021 to 0.12 μm in thickness.
US08102058B2 Chip package structure and method for fabricating the same
The disclosure provides a chip package structure and method for fabricating the same. The chip package structure includes at least one chip having at least one through via. At least one stress buffering structure is disposed in the through via. The stress buffering structure includes a first gasket and a second gasket. A supporting pillar has two terminals respectively connected to the first gasket and the second gasket. The cross-sectional area of the supporting pillar is smaller than areas of the first gasket and the second gasket. A buffering layer is sandwiched between the first gasket and the second gasket, surrounding a sidewall of the supporting pillar. An insulating layer is disposed on the through via, surrounding a sidewall of the stress buffering structure.
US08102049B2 Semiconductor device including through electrode and method of manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a semiconductor device including at least one of an insulating layer and a semiconductor layer each including a hole formed therein, and a through electrode provided in the hole. In the semiconductor device, the side wall of the hole is constituted of a first region from the opening of the hole to a predetermined position between the opening of the hole and the bottom surface of the hole, and a second region from the predetermined position to the bottom surface of the hole. The through electrode includes a seed layer and a plating layer. The seed layer covers the second region and the bottom surface of the hole without covering the first region. In addition, the plating layer covers the seed layer and at least a part of the first region.
US08102044B2 Bonded wafer structure and method of fabrication
A method of packaging electronics comprises providing a first wafer and providing a second wafer. The method also comprises depositing a polymer material over a surface of the first wafer; and selectively removing a portion of the polymer from the first wafer to create a void in the polymer. The method also comprises placing the first wafer over the second wafer and in contact with the polymer; and curing the polymer to bond the first wafer to the second wafer. A bonded wafer structure is also described.
US08102038B2 Semiconductor chip attach configuration having improved thermal characteristics
A semiconductor chip 101 with surface 101b free of circuitry assembled on a metal carrier 102 by an attachment layer 103 with thickness 103a. Included in layer 103 are metal bodies 104 and an adhesive polymeric compound 105 between bodies 104. Metal bodies 104 form metal inter-diffusions with carrier 102 and extend from the carrier across thickness 103a, stopping at and contacting second chip surface 101b. The high thermal conductivity of metal bodies 104 greatly increases the thermal conductivity of the attachment layer. The metal bodies may be arrayed in a regularly spaced pattern in x- and y-directions, as well as in enhanced concentrations in locations of thermal hot spots and of high thermomechnical stresses. In the latter application, the metal bodies prevent the growth of microcracks and delamination.
US08102036B2 Semiconductor device in which a semiconductor chip is sealed
A semiconductor device having a GaAsFET and input and output matching circuits connected to the FET is provided. In the semiconductor device, a line, including a wire connection portion connected to the input or output matching circuit and a lead connection portion connected to an input or output lead which is connected to an external circuit, is formed in such a manner that a line width at the wire connection portion is wider than that at the lead connection portion. With the semiconductor device, the number of wires connecting the input or output matching circuits with the wire connection portion can be increased.
US08102029B2 Wafer level buck converter
A buck converter module includes a high side (HS) die having source, drain, and gate bonding pads on a front side of the HS die, a low side (LS) die having a first section thereof with a plurality of through silicon vias (TSVs) extending from a back side to a front side of the LS die, the LS die having source, drain, and gate bonding pads located on a front side of a second section separate from the first section, the drain bonding pad electrically connected to the back side of the LS die in the second section. The HS die and the LS die are bonded together such that the source bonding pad of the HS die is electrically connected to the back side of the LS die, and each of the drain and gate bonding pads are electrically connected to separate TSVs in the LS die.
US08102026B2 Group-III nitride semiconductor freestanding substrate and manufacturing method of the same
To provide a group-III nitride semiconductor freestanding substrate, with carrier concentration of a peripheral part of a n-type group-III nitride semiconductor freestanding substrate set to be lower than the carrier concentration inside of the peripheral part. In this freestanding substrate, preferably value Δσ obtained by dividing a difference between a maximum value of the carrier concentration and a minimum value of the carrier concentration in a surface of the freestanding substrate by the maximum value of the carrier concentration is greater than 0.05, and the carrier concentration in any place in the surface of the freestanding substrate exceeds 5.0×1017 cm−3.
US08102021B2 RF devices
A low cost passive RFID tag uses capacitive or inductive coupling between the RF IC chip and the antenna. Coupling elements are formed directly on the surface of the RF IC chip.
US08102015B2 Microphone package with minimum footprint size and thickness
A microphone package includes a carrier, a cap, an integrated circuit chip, and a microphone unit. The cap covers the carrier to form a storage space. The integrated circuit chip is disposed in the storage space. The microphone unit is disposed in the storage space and stacked on the integrated circuit chip.
US08102012B2 Transistor component having a shielding structure
A transistor component having a shielding structure. One embodiment provides a source terminal, a drain terminal and control terminal. A source zone of a first conductivity type is connected to the source terminal. A drain zone of the first conductivity type is connected to the drain terminal. A drift zone is arranged between the source zone and the drain zone. A junction control structure is provided for controlling a junction zone in the drift zone between the drain zone and the source zone, at least including one control zone. A shielding structure is arranged in the drift zone between the junction control structure and the drain zone and at least includes a shielding zone of a second conductivity type being complementarily to the first conductivity type. The shielding zone is connected to a terminal for a shielding potential. The at least one control zone and the at least one shielding zone have different geometries or different orientations in a plain that is perpendicular to a current flow direction of the component.
US08101996B2 Three-dimensional semiconductor device structures and methods
A three-dimensional semiconductor device structure includes a first semiconductor device and a second semiconductor device bonded together using a patterned conductive layer according to an embodiment of the invention. The first semiconductor device includes a first plurality of terminals on its front side, and the second semiconductor device includes a second plurality of terminals on its front side. The patterned conductive layer includes a plurality of conductive regions. Each of the conductive regions is bonded to a conductor coupled to one of the first plurality of terminals and bonded to another conductor coupled to one of the second plurality of terminals, providing electrical coupling between the first semiconductor device and the second semiconductor device. In a specific embodiment, each terminal of the first semiconductor device is bonded to a corresponding terminal of the second semiconductor device, providing a parallel combination of the first and the second semiconductor devices.
US08101994B2 Semiconductor device having multiple fin heights
A semiconductor device having multiple fin heights is provided. Multiple fin heights are provided by using multiple masks to recess a dielectric layer within a trench formed in a substrate. In another embodiment, an implant mold or e-beam lithography are utilized to form a pattern of trenches in a photoresist material. Subsequent etching steps form corresponding trenches in the underlying substrate. In yet another embodiment, multiple masking layers are used to etch trenches of different heights separately. A dielectric region may be formed along the bottom of the trenches to isolate the fins by performing an ion implant and a subsequent anneal.
US08101978B2 Circuit and photo sensor overlap for backside illumination image sensor
A backside illuminated (“BSI”) imaging sensor pixel includes a photodiode region and pixel circuitry. The photodiode region is disposed within a semiconductor die for accumulating an image charge in response to light incident upon a backside of the BSI imaging sensor pixel. The pixel circuitry includes transistor pixel circuitry disposed within the semiconductor die between a frontside of the semiconductor die and the photodiode region. At least a portion of the pixel circuitry overlaps the photodiode region.
US08101977B2 Ballasted polycrystalline fuse
A polycrystalline fuse includes a first layer of polycrystalline material on a substrate and a second layer of a silicide material on the first layer. The first and second layers are shaped to form first and second terminal portions of a first width joined along a length of the fuse by a fuse portion of a second width narrower than the first width. First and second contacts are connected to the first and second terminal portions respectively. The silicide material being discontinuous in a terminal region of the second layer along the length of the fuse.
US08101973B2 Transistor
A heterojunction bipolar transistor comprising a substrate; a collector on the substrate; a base layer on the collector; an emitter layer on the base layer; the emitter layer comprising an upper emitter layer and a lower emitter layer between the upper emitter layer and base; the collector, base and emitter layers being npn or pnp doped respectively; characterized in that the lower emitter layer has a larger bandgap than the base layer and is AlxIn1-xP or GaxAl1-xP, x being in the range 0+ to 1.
US08101971B2 Multicolor photodiode array and method of manufacturing
Novel structures of the photodetector having broad spectral ranges detection capability are provided. The photodetector offers high quantum efficiency>95% over wide spectral ranges, high frequency response>10 GHz (@3 dB). The photodiode array of N×N (or M×N) elements is also provided. The array also offers wide spectral detection ranges ultraviolet to 2500 nm with high quantum efficiency>95% and high frequency response of >10 GHz, cross-talk of <0.1%. In the array, each photodiode is independently addressable and is made either as top-illuminated or as bottom illuminated type detector. The photodiode and its array provided in this invention, could be used in multiple purpose applications such as telecommunication, imaging, and sensing applications including surveillance, satellite tracking, advanced lidar systems, etc. The advantages of this photodetectors are that they are uncooled and performance will not be degraded under wide range of temperature variation.
US08101967B2 Optical semiconductor package and optical semiconductor device
Leads 3 and a metal block 2 are resin molded only in a region surrounded by a base bottom 1d, and the surface of the metal block 2 at the bottom of a cavity 10 is not composed of a resin but a metallic component or a material having high resistance to discoloration and degradation.
US08101966B2 Light-emitting diode lamp with low thermal resistance
A light-emitting diode (LED) structure with an improved heat transfer path with a lower thermal resistance than conventional LED lamps is provided. For some embodiments, a surface-mountable light-emitting diode structure is provided having an active layer deposited on a metal substrate directly bonded to a metal plate that is substantially exposed for low thermal resistance by positioning it on the bottom of the light-emitting diode structure. This metal plate can then be soldered to a printed circuit board (PCB) that includes a heat sink. For some embodiments of the invention, the metal plate is thermally and electrically conductively connected through several heat conduction layers to a large heat sink that may be included in the structure.
US08101957B2 Optical semiconductor device, laser chip and laser module
An optical semiconductor device has a semiconductor substrate, an optical semiconductor region and a heater. The optical semiconductor region is provided on the semiconductor substrate and has a width smaller than that of the semiconductor substrate. The heater is provided on the optical semiconductor region. The optical semiconductor region has a cladding region, an optical waveguide layer and a low thermal conductivity layer. The optical waveguide layer is provided in the cladding region and has a refractive index higher than that of the cladding region. The low thermal conductivity layer is provided between the optical waveguide layer and the semiconductor substrate and has a thermal conductivity lower than that of the cladding region.
US08101956B2 Light emitting device package and light unit having the same
Discussed is a semiconductor LED package. The semiconductor LED package includes a packet body having a cavity, a semiconductor light emitting device in the cavity of the package body; and a plurality of reflective frames, each of the reflective frames having a bottom frame in the cavity of the package body, and at least two sidewall frames extending from the bottom frame and inclined with respect to the bottom frame, wherein the plurality of reflective frames are electrically separated from each other.
US08101951B2 Conductor structure, pixel structure, and methods of forming the same
A method for forming a conductor structure is provided. The method comprises: (1) providing a substrate; (2) forming a patterned dielectric layer with a first opening which exposes a portion of the substrate; forming a patterned organic material layer on the dielectric layer with a second opening which corresponds to the first opening and expose the exposed portion of the substrate; (3) forming a first barrier layer on the organic material layer and the exposed portion of the substrate; (4) forming a metal layer on the first barrier layer; and (5) removing the organic material layer, the first barrier layer thereon and the metal layer thereon.
US08101936B2 SnSe-based limited reprogrammable cell
Methods and apparatus for providing a memory device that can be programmed a limited number of times. According to exemplary embodiments, a memory device and its method of formation provide a first electrode, a second electrode and a layer of a chalcogenide or germanium comprising material between the first electrode and the second electrode. The memory device further includes a tin-chalcogenide layer between the chalcogenide or germanium comprising material layer and the second electrode.
US08101932B2 Radiation attenuation corridor
A radiation attenuation corridor couples a radiation therapy room and a control room. The radiation attenuation corridor is made of a material that substantially absorbs ionizing radiation and substantially blocks the transmission of the ionizing radiation. Specific wall portions at the entrance of the corridor are covered with borated polyethylene (BPE). Specific wall portions diverge from an axis defined by the corridor by from about 10 degrees to about 45 degrees. The corridor thus leads out of the room and angles laterally across the wall of the therapy room, before angling again and opening to a safe room. The added angles in the radiation corridor increase the distance of radiation travel, and make the path more indirect, thereby increasing the contact of the radiation emissions with the radiation shielding and further attenuating the radiation.
US08101929B1 Diffraction free, self-bending airy wave arrangement
Methods and systems for Airy waves and Airy wavepackets or Airy beam generation from an input beam or pulse. Airy wavefronts and Airy wavepackets can be generated using Airy beam generation through Fourier synthesis using phase masks or filters in the spatial domain; Airy beam generation using amplitude and phase filters in the spatial domain; and Airy pulse generation through Fourier synthesis using phase and/or amplitude filters in the temporal frequency domain. The Airy waves are highly asymmetric and as a result their energy is more tightly confined in one quadrant thus increasing the energy density in the main lobes. These wavepackets can be one, two, and three-dimensional waves. In addition they tend to self-heal themselves which is important in adverse environments.
US08101916B2 Method for measuring biodiesel concentration in a biodiesel diesel oil mixture
This patent presents a method for measuring the concentration of biodiesel in a homogeneous biodiesel-diesel oil mixture using mid infrared radiation for use as fabrication monitor, quality control, law enforcement and multi-fueled vehicles. The method is characterized by the use of mid infrared absorption measurement in the range from 1870 to 1600 cm−1 (5347.6 to 6250.0 nm) which corresponds to the carbonyl group absorption peak (C═O) that is only present in biodiesel. Both intensity and area of the carbonyl absorption peak present power law dependence with the biodiesel percentile in the biodiesel-diesel oil mixture.
US08101914B2 Thermal-type infrared solid-state imaging device and manufacturing method of the same
A thermal-type infrared solid-state imaging device comprises a infrared detector having at least a substrate provided with an integrated circuit for reading out a signal, a diaphragm for detecting a temperature change by absorbing infrared rays, and a support section for supporting the diaphragm above a surface of one side of the substrate with space in between, and includes an eaves section connected to a connection area provided in the vicinity of outer circumference of the diaphragm and covering at least components other than the diaphragm across a space and transmitting the heat generated by absorbing incident infrared rays to the diaphragm, wherein the eaves section has the thickness of a first region covering the components other than the diaphragm across a space thicker than the thicknesses of a second region contacting the connection area of the diaphragm and a third region rising upward in mid air from the diaphragm.
US08101910B2 Method, system and apparatus for multiplexing ions in MSn mass spectrometry analysis
A method and apparatus for multiplexing ions in an MSn mass spectrometer is provided. Ion are filtered to produce a group of ions of interest, the group of ions below a space charge limit of the MSn mass spectrometer. At least a portion of the group of ions are fragmented to form a fragmented group of ions. At least a portion of the fragmented group are stored such that a plurality of portions of the fragmented group can be sequentially selected for mass spectrometry analysis. Each of the plurality of portions of the fragmented group are sequentially selected and re-fragmented prior to mass spectrometry analysis. Each of the plurality of portions of the fragmented group are analyzed, via mass spectrometry, once each of the plurality of portions of the fragmented group has been fragmented.
US08101906B2 Method and apparatus for calibrating optical path degradation useful for decoupled plasma nitridation chambers
Methods for matching semiconductor processing chambers using a calibrated spectrometer are disclosed. In one embodiment, plasma attributes are measured for a process in a reference chamber and a process in an aged chamber. Using a calibrated light source, an optical path equivalent to an optical path in a reference chamber and an optical path in an aged chamber can be compared by determining a correction factor. The correction factor is applied to adjust a measured intensity of plasma radiation through the optical path in the aged chamber. Comparing a measured intensity of plasma radiation in the reference chamber and the adjusted measured intensity in the aged chamber provide an indication of changed chamber conditions. A magnitude of change between the two intensities can be used to adjust the process parameters to yield a processed substrate from the aged chamber which matches that of the reference chamber.
US08101899B2 Image pickup apparatus
An apparatus includes pixels each having a transistor that transfers a charge of a photoelectric conversion unit, an amplification unit that receives the transferred charge, a scanning unit that supplies, to the transistor, a conductive pulse, a non-conductive pulse, and an intermediate-level pulse having a peak value between the conductive pulse and the non-conductive pulse, a generating unit that generates an image signal using a signal based on a charge transferred in response to the conductive and intermediate-level pulses, and a control unit that changes at least one of a pulse width of the intermediate-level pulse and the peak value in accordance with information on the detected temperature. The conductive and intermediate-level pulses are supplied to the transistor during a light shielding period of the photoelectric conversion unit.
US08101887B2 Heated steering wheel cover
The heated steering wheel cover includes a resilient, flexible, substantially annular member having an open bottom portion enabling the substantially annular member to be removably fitted over a vehicle's steering wheel. A heating element is disposed inside of the steering wheel cover. A battery pack is electrically connected to the heating element. A switch is electrically connected to the battery pack and selectively turns the heating element on or off. The battery pack is removably attachable to a portion of the vehicle proximate the steering wheel so that safe operation of the heating element is possible while the vehicle is being driven.
US08101886B2 Welding article and welding method of carrying out an alternating current arc welding
A welding method of carrying out an alternating current arc welding by switching polarities of a voltage applied between a wire and workpieces when weld-connecting the workpieces to each other by use of the wire, the workpieces including an aluminum cast material and an aluminum wrought material. In the welding method, the alternating current arc welding is carried out in a way to satisfy |B|/(A+|B|)≧0.128 where A denotes an integrated value of an electric current over a time for which the polarity of the wire is positive, and B denotes an integrated value of an electric current over a time for which the polarity of the wire is negative; and thereby an amount of heat input into the aluminum cast material during the welding is set at not more than 67.8 J/mm2.
US08101884B2 Method for production of a pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet
A pressure sensitive adhesive sheet 1 includes a base material 11 and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer 12. A plurality of through holes 2 pass through one face of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet 1 to the other face. The hole diameter of the through holes 2 is 0.1 to 300 μm and the hole density is 30 to 50,000/100 cm2. It is preferable to form the through holes 2 using a laser beam machining. In the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet 1, an air trapping or a blister can be prevented or removed without disfiguring the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet and while maintaining sufficient adhesive strength.
US08101882B2 Plasma torch electrode with improved insert configurations
An improved electrode for use in a plasma arc torch. The electrode includes an electrode body, a bore defined by and disposed in the electrode body, and an insert disposed in the bore. The insert and/or the bore of the electrode are configured to improve retention of the insert in the electrode, thereby extending electrode life. The invention also includes a method for forming the electrode. The method includes a step of positioning an insert into a bore of an electrode such that an exterior gap is established that is greater than a second gap.
US08101874B2 Watertight junction box
A watertight junction box includes a box body, a lower floating plate, an upper floating plate, a lock cap, a modular cable inserted into the box body and kept in contact with sharp copper contacts, a holding down plate for holding down an external power wire on the upper floating plate to cause electric contact between the external power wire and the sharp copper contacts, and a predetermined amount of silicon rubber filled in between the lower and upper floating plate that is deformed to wrap about the connection area between the sharp copper contacts and the external power wire when the lock cap is tightly fastened to the box body to force down the holding down plate.
US08101873B2 Protective structure for a circuit board and method for fabricating the same
In a protective structure for a circuit board (1) that includes a casing (3) for receiving the circuit board, the casing is provided with a recess (11) for receiving a large component part protruding from the circuit board therein, and potting material (6) is filled in a space defined between the large component part and a surrounding wall of the recess. Typically, the potting material is filled in a gap between the large component part and the surrounding wall of the recess without substantially extending out of the recess. Because the large component part is not only supported by the circuit board but also by the casing via the cured potting material, the stress acting on a connection part that connects the large component part to the circuit board is minimized, and this enhances the mechanical integrity of the circuit board assembly. Because the use of the potting material is limited to the recess, the required amount of the potting material can be minimized, and this means a lower material cost and a reduced weight. Reducing the amount of the potting material means a shorter period of time required for curing it, and this improves the production efficiency of the circuit board assembly. If the protection of the component parts from intrusion of moisture is desired, protective coating may be additionally applied to the circuit board.
US08101870B2 Method for manufacturing printed circuit board, printed circuit board, and electronic apparatus
A method for manufacturing a printed circuit board. The method includes: preparing a printed wiring board, the printed wiring board comprising through holes and a plurality of electrode pads; coating surfaces of the plurality of electrode pads and surfaces of the through holes on an one side of the printed wiring board with a bonding material; mounting a semiconductor package on the printed wiring board such that a plurality of bumps on a surface of the semiconductor package corresponds to the plurality of electrode pads; bonding the bumps to the electrode pads by heating the printed wiring board on which the semiconductor package is mounted; and filling a space between the semiconductor package and the printed wiring board with a filler material.
US08101868B2 Multilayered printed circuit board and method for manufacturing the same
A multilayered printed circuit board or a substrate for mounting a semiconductor device includes a semiconductor device, a first resin insulating layer accommodating the semiconductor device, a second resin insulating layer provided on the first resin insulating layer, a conductor circuit provided on the second resin insulating layer, and via holes for electrically connecting the semiconductor device to the conductor circuit, wherein the semiconductor device is accommodated in a recess provided in the first resin insulating layer, and a metal layer for placing the semiconductor device is provided on the bottom face of the recess. A multilayered printed circuit board in which the installed semiconductor device establishes electrical connection through the via holes is provided.
US08101861B1 Electrical device cover
A cover for electrical devices is disclosed. Particular implementations include an electrical device cover configured to mount over an electrical device includes a lid having a flexible membrane. The lid is coupled by a hinge to a base and the cover includes a cord port in an edge of a surface of the cover. The lid is configured to expand through the flexible membrane to an expanded position to accommodate an electrical connector coupled with the electrical device. The lid may also be configured to reduce in depth as the lid retracts from the expanded position to a refracted position through the flexible membrane.
US08101860B1 Electrical device cover
An electrical device cover configured for mounting over an electrical device comprises a frame including a frame channel and an frame opening. The frame opening is defined by at least four sides and is large enough to receive at least one electrical device. A sliding tab comprising a screw channel is provided, the sliding tab is slidably coupled with the frame channel and is slideable to a closed position in which the screw channel at least partially surrounds a box mounting screw of the at least one electrical device.
US08101859B2 Metal retaining features for handheld electronic device casing
This invention is directed to mechanical and electromagnetic shielding features of an electronic device case. An electronic device case is formed of two housings, each housing having integrated snaps, channels, or other retaining features used to secure the housings together. The housings additionally include integrated retaining features used to secure electronic components within the device case. The housings and retaining features are formed of amorphous metals or other materials with high elasticities. Because the retaining features necessary to assemble the case and secure the electronic components to the case form integral parts of the housings, no external retaining features are required to assemble the electronic device in the case.
US08101856B2 Quantum well GaP/Si tandem photovoltaic cells
Two junction solar energy conversion devices, i.e. photovoltaic cells have a bottom silicon N+/P/P+ photovoltaic cell and an upper GaP N+/P/P+ photovoltaic cell containing quantum well layers which extend the wavelength range over which the GaP cell absorbs light. The quantum well layers are composed of materials other than Gallium Phosphide (GaP) and may be either pseudomorphic or metamorphic. Light trapping may be incorporated at the top surface of the GaP photovoltaic cell along with anti-reflective coatings, and light trapping may be incorporated on the bottom surface of the silicon cell. The bottom surface of the silicon photovoltaic cell is coated with a passivating dielectric layer and electrical contact to the silicon is made with conductive vias extending through the passivating layer.
US08101832B2 Soybean cultivar S080121
A soybean cultivar designated S080121 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S080121, to the plants of soybean S080121, to plant parts of soybean cultivar S080121, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar S080121 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety S080121, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S080121, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar S080121 with another soybean cultivar.
US08101831B1 Soybean variety XB49H09
According to the invention, there is provided a novel soybean variety designated XB49H09. This invention thus relates to the seeds of soybean variety XB49H09, to the plants of soybean XB49H09 to plant parts of soybean variety XB49H09 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing plants of the soybean variety XB49H09 with another soybean plant, using XB49H09 as either the male or the female parent.
US08101829B1 Soybean variety RJS35006
According to the invention, there is provided a novel soybean variety designated RJS35006. This invention thus relates to the seeds of soybean variety RJS35006, to the plants of soybean RJS35006 to plant parts of soybean variety RJS35006 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing plants of the soybean variety RJS35006 with another soybean plant, using RJS35006 as either the male or the female parent.
US08101828B1 Soybean variety RJS09002
According to the invention, there is provided a novel soybean variety designated RJS09002. This invention thus relates to the seeds of soybean variety RJS09002, to the plants of soybean RJS09002 to plant parts of soybean variety RJS09002 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing plants of the soybean variety RJS09002 with another soybean plant, using RJS09002 as either the male or the female parent.
US08101823B2 Method of controlling a cellular process in a multi-cellular organism
A method of controlling a genetically-modified multi-cellular organism or a part thereof, comprising the following steps: (a) providing a multi-cellular organism or a part thereof, whereby cells of said multi-cellular organism or said part contain a heterologous nucleic acid, (b) causing expression of a I protein from said heterologous nucleic acid in at least some of said cells, wherein said protein is capable of (i) leaving a cell and entering other cells of said multi-cellular organism or a part thereof, (ii) causing expression of said protein in cells containing said heterologous nucleic acid, and optionally (iii) controlling a cellular process of interest.
US08101815B2 Pet waste absorption sheet
A pet waste absorption sheet includes a liquid-impermeable backsheet, a liquid-permeable topsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. The topsheet is a resin film formed with a plurality of apertures for passage of liquid. The topsheet is bonded to the absorbent core through a hot-melt type adhesive. The hot-melt type adhesive is applied in a plurality of continuous lines including curved portions.
US08101812B2 Extraction of hydrocarbons from hydrocarbon-containing materials
Solvents and methods are provided for extracting a hydrocarbon fraction from a solid, semi-solid, liquid or viscous liquid hydrocarbon-containing material.
US08101809B2 Base oil composition comprising oligomerized olefins
Provided is a base oil, comprising one or more oligomerized olefins, wherein the base oil has: (d) a kinematic viscosity at 100° C. grater than 2.9 mm2/s; (e) a viscosity index from 25 to 90; and (f) a cloud point less than −55° C. Provided is a base oil made by oligomerizing propylene in an ionic liquid catalyst, where the base oil has a viscosity index from 25 to 90 and the base oil is colorless. Provided is a base oil made by oligomerizing an olefin feed comprising propylene in an acidic alkyl-pyridinium chloroaluminate ionic liquid, wherein the base oil has a viscosity index from 25 to 90, and a cloud point less than −55° C.
US08101796B2 Process for the production of acetic acid
Process for producing acetic acid by carbonylating methanol and/or a reactive derivative thereof with carbon monoxide in at least one carbonylation reaction zone containing a liquid reaction composition containing an iridium carbonylation catalyst, methyl iodide co-catalyst, a finite concentration of water, acetic acid, methyl acetate. Indium and rhenium are present as promoters.
US08101792B2 Compounds isolated from Antrodia cinnamomea and use thereof
The present invention relates to novel compounds from Antrodia cinnamomea and their use.
US08101789B2 Method for the production of polymerizable silicones
Siloxy-substituted silane-containing polymerizable silicones are prepared in high purity by metering a substituted alkoxysilane into a mixture of disiloxane, acetic acid, and acid catalyst, adding acetyl chloride, separating an acidic phase from a product phase, and adding hexamethyldisilazane to the product phase, which is then distilled.
US08101785B2 Method for producing fatty acid alkanol amides
The invention relates to a method for producing fatty acid alkanol amides by reacting at least one amine that contains at least one primary or secondary amino group and at least one hydroxyl group with at least one fatty acid to form an ammonium salt, said ammonium salt being subsequently converted into the alkanol amide by means of microwave radiation.
US08101783B1 Titanium-maltol compound and method of synthesizing the same
A novel compound showing anti-tumor properties was synthesized by reacting Cp2TiCl2 with maltol (3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyrone) and a pH of 5.4, leading to a complete replacement of Cp and chloride ligands affording, Ti(maltolato)2(OH)2. The further crystallization of Ti(maltolato)2(OH)2 at pH of 8.4 leads to the formation of the novel anti-tumor compound [Ti4(maltolato)8(μ-O4)].
US08101778B2 Five-membered heterocycles useful as serine protease inhibitors
The present invention provides a method for treating a thrombotic or an inflammatory disorder administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of at least one compound of Formula (I) or Formula (V): or a stereoisomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate form thereof, wherein the variables A, L, Z, R3, R4, R6, R11, X1, X2, and X3 are as defined herein. The compounds of Formula (I) are useful as selective inhibitors of serine protease enzymes of the coagulation cascade and/or contact activation system; for example thrombin, factor Xa, factor XIa, factor IXa, factor VIIa and/or plasma kallikrein. In particular, it relates to compounds that are selective factor XIa inhibitors. This invention also provides compounds within the scope of Formula I and relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds.
US08101773B2 Hydroxy methyl phenyl pyrazolyl urea compounds useful in the treatment of cancer
The compound 4-{4-[({3-tert-Butyl-1-[3-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrazol-5-yl}carbamoyl)amino]-3-fluorophenoxy}-N-methylpyridine-2-carboxamide and alternative forms thereof (e.g., salts, solvates, hydrates, prodrugs, polymorphs and metabolites); pharmaceutical compositions which contain them; and methods for treating cancer using them.
US08101771B2 Triazole derivative, and light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and electronic device using triazole derivative
A novel triazole derivative which has a large energy gap and can be used for electron-transporting layer of a light-emitting element or as a host material. In addition, a light-emitting element which has higher emission efficiency by using the novel triazole derivative. Furthermore, a low power consumption light-emitting device and electronic device.A triazole derivative having a structure represented by the formula (G1). In the formula, Py represents a pyridyl group. R11 and R12 each represent any of hydrogen, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a phenyl group.
US08101757B2 Processes for the preparation of normorphinan salts
The invention provides a process for the conversion of opioid derivatives into normorphinan compounds useful for making “nal” compound analgesics and antagonists. In particular, the process may be used for the production of pure normorphinan salts from crude opioid substrates.
US08101754B2 Triazole compounds suitable for treating disorders that respond to modulation of the dopamine D3 receptor
The invention relates to compounds of the formula I: wherein n is 1 or 2, Ar is a C-bound 1,2,4-triazol radical which carries a radical R1 on the remaining carbon atom and a radical R1a on one of the nitrogen atoms; R1 is hydrogen, C1-C6 alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, C1-C4 alkoxymethyl, fluorinated C1-C6 alkyl, fluorinated C3-C6 cycloalkyl, fluorinated C1-C4 alkoxymethyl, or optionially substituted phenyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl; R1a is hydrogen or C1-C4 alkyl; and R2 is C1-C6 alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, fluorinated C1-C6 alkyl or fluorinated C3-C6 cycloalkyl; and to the physiologically tolerated acid addition salts of these compounds. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition that comprises at least one triazole compound of the formula I and/or at least one physiologically tolerated acid addition salt thereof, and further to a method for treating disorders that respond beneficially to dopamine D3 receptor antagonists or dopamine D3 agonists, said method comprising administering an effective amount of at least one triazole compound or physiologically tolerated acid addition salt of the formula I to a subject in need thereof.
US08101753B2 Production method of pyrimidine compounds
4-amino-6-alkynyloxypyrimidine compounds shown by the formula (V) which has a controlling activity against pests can be produced by the method which comprises the first step which produces a 4-fluoro-6-alkynyloxypyrimidine compound shown by the formula (I) by making a 4,6-difluoropyrimidine compound shown by the formula (II) react with an alcohol compound shown by the formula (III) H—OR2  (III) in the presence of a tertiary amine; and the second step which produces the 4-amino-6-alkynyloxypyrimidine compound shown by the formula (V) by making the 4-fluoro-6-alkynyloxypyrimidine compound shown by the formula (I) react with an amine compound shown by the formula (IV)
US08101744B2 Isolation and purification of nucleic acids with a solid phase
Disclosed are water-soluble ionic liquids suitable for promoting adsorption of nucleic acids to a solid phase. The use thereof, particularly methods for the isolation of nucleic acids from an aqueous solution, as well as kits for performing those methods are disclosed.
US08101743B2 Modulation of transthyretin expression
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression of transthyretin. The compositions comprise oligonucleotides, targeted to nucleic acid encoding transthyretin. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of transthyretin expression and for diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions associated with expression of transthyretin are provided.
US08101735B2 Preparation of protective antigen
A polynucleotide sequence is provided comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding recombinant Protective Antigen (rPA).Also provided are expression vectors and host cells comprising the polynucleotide sequence of the invention, and methods for producing rPA.
US08101731B2 Yellow anionic disazo dyes
The present invention relates to novel yellow anionic dyes, a process for their preparation, certain novel intermediates necessary for their preparation and the use of these dyes for dyeing natural or synthetic materials, in particular, paper. The dyes are of formula (14), (15) or (16) in which R1 represents hydrogen, C1-C4alkyl, C1-C4alkoxy or SO3H, R2 represents SO3H or CO2H, R3 represents hydrogen, C1-C4alkyl, halogen, hydroxy, C1-C4alkoxy, carboxy, NH2 or NHC1-C4alkyl, R3a represents hydrogen or NH2 and A1 and A2, independently of the other, is selected from the group consisting of an acetoacetylated amine, a derivative of barbituric acid, a 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidine derivative, a pyridone derivative, an aminopyrazole or a pyrazolone derivative and a benzoic acid derivative, or A1 and A2, each one independently of the other, represent a certain phenol residue.
US08101727B2 Compositions and methods of use for antibodies of c-Met
Antibodies and fragments that bind to the protein target c-Met, particularly to epitopes located in the c-Met extracellular domain, are provided, as are methods of use of the antibodies and kits, for treating an unwanted cell, in particular, a cell associated with a c-Met-related condition such as a cancer, a metastasis, or an inflammatory condition.
US08101721B2 Antibodies blocking fibroblast growth factor receptor activation and methods of use thereof
The present invention is related to antibodies with binding affinity to fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) optionally with binding affinity to other FGF receptors, which block both ligand-dependent and constitutive ligand independent receptor activation. Specifically, the present invention relates to antibodies with high affinity to more than one FGF receptor subtype, and fragments thereof, useful in treating disorders including cell proliferative diseases.
US08101718B2 Methods of administering porcine B-domainless fVIII
The present invention provides a method of administering porcine B-domainless factor VIII (OBI-1) to a patient having factor VIII deficiency to provide more rapid and effective protection against bleeding episodes, compared to formerly available methods, or to provide more effective protection to such patients during non-bleeding periods. This invention is based on the discovery that the recombinant B-domainless porcine fVIII, termed OBI-1, has greater bioavailability compared to the natural porcine fVIII partially purified from porcine plasma, termed HYATE:C. Therefore, the inventive method employs lower unit doses of OBI-1, including, alternatively, omission of antibody-neutralizing dosage, or has longer intervals between the administration, compared to HYATE:C, to provide equivalent protection in patients having fVIII deficiency. The invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions and kits containing OBI-1 in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, that are useful for treating patients in need of fVIII more effectively.
US08101715B2 Ryanodine receptor polypeptides
The genes encoding ryanodine receptor homologs have been characterized from multiple insect families including lepidopteran tobacco budworm (Heliothis virescens), homopteran green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), corn plant hopper (Peregrinus maidis), cotton melon aphid (Aphis gossypii) and fruitfly (Drosophila melanogaster). The full-length genes have been isolated, cloned and amplified in bacterial cells. Expression in insect cells shows that the recombinant protein folds into a functional calcium release channel. The genes and their corresponding polypeptides have a number of uses including, but not limited to, the isolation of other pest ryanodine receptors, the development of screens to identify insecticidally active compounds, use of fragments of genes as pesticides, fragments of protein for antibody production, fragments of protein for determination of the structure of insecticide binding sites, and identification of insecticides that disrupt the calcium balance in cells through other messengers that interact with the receptor calcium release mechanism. Methods are outlined for overcoming toxic effects of expressing recombinant proteins in host cells.
US08101713B2 Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment
The present invention relates to novel antibodies and their use for detecting, imaging, staging, treating and monitoring of prostate cancer, and/or metastasis thereof. The present invention also relates to novel pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of prostate cancer. Furthermore the present invention relates to assay systems and kits for detecting, imaging, staging, treating and monitoring of prostate cancer, and/or metastasis thereof.
US08101708B2 Solvent resistant polymers
What is disclosed relates to polymers that resist dissolution in organic solvents, are vasodilators, and are tunable explosives. These polymers also form solvent resistant coatings and solvent resistant fibers as well as bonding materials.
US08101698B2 Surface active prepolymers with both fluorine-containing groups and hydrophilic groups
Provided are surface modified contact lenses formed from one or more fumaric-or itaconic-containing prepolymers having polymerizable functionality that is complimentary to polymerizable hydrophilic polymers.
US08101692B2 Slurry phase polymerisation process
A process comprising polymerising in a loop reactor of continuous tubular construction an olefin monomer optionally together with an olefin comonomer in the presence of a polymerisation catalyst in a diluent to produce a slurry comprising solid particulate olefin polymer and the diluent wherein the internal diameter of at least 50% of the total length of the reactor is at least 700 millimeters and the solids concentration in the reactor is at least 20 volume % is disclosed.
US08101690B2 Amine functional adducts and curable compositions comprising same
An amine functional adduct is obtained by admixing a stoichiometric excess of a cycloaliphatic diamine and a compound having an epoxide group and an alpha, beta unsaturated carbonyl group.
US08101675B2 Comminutable polyesters
A process is disclosed for producing a polyester in powder form, which process comprises: (a) rendering a polyester comminutable by (i) chemical pre-treatment of the polyester, or (ii) irradiating the polyester; and (b) comminuting the polyester produced in step (a) to form a powder.
US08101674B2 Rubber compound and molded article
A pharmaceutical/medical rubber compound contains the following components: (A) a composition obtainable by crosslinking (a) 100 parts by weight of an isobutylene polymer having terminal alkenyl groups with (d) a hydrosilyl-containing compound in the presence of (b) from 5 to 100 parts by weight of a polyolefin and (c) from 5 to 100 parts by weight of polybutene during melt kneading, and (B) an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene powder. Compared with conventional thermoplastic elastomers, the pharmaceutical/medical rubber compound and its molded article are free from deformations and have sufficient permanent set resistance even under high temperature conditions, have excellent mechanical properties, low water absorption property, low reactivity and superb gas barrier properties, and can withstand high-temperature sterilization.
US08101670B2 Polymers with benzoxazine groups in their main chains
The present invention discloses polymers prepared through the Diels-Alder reaction with benzoxazine groups in their main chains. Moreover, polymers with high molecular weight could be successfully prepared via this method. Furthermore, the mentioned polymers are able to undergo crosslinking reaction by heat treatment. Heat energy causes the ring-opening reaction of benzoxazine in polymer main chains to undergo crosslinking reaction, and cross-linked polymers are thereby formed with great flexibility and high crosslinking degree.
US08101667B2 Pesticidal treatment of stored goods, enclosures, structures and works of art, with sulphur compounds
The present invention is directed to the pesticidal treatment of stored foodstuffs, chambers, structures and works of art, using a volatile sulphur compound of general formula: in which R represents an alkyl or alkenyl radical containing from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, n is equal to 0, 1 or 2, x is a number ranging from 0 to 4, and R′ represents an alkyl or alkenyl radical containing from 1 to 4 carbon atoms or, only if n=x=0, a hydrogen atom. These sulphur compounds (in particular dimethyl disulphide) are applied by nebulization directly to the material to be treated.
US08101666B2 Methods and compounds for detection of medical disorders
The invention provides methods for detection of medical disorders, associated with cellular oxidative stress, cell degeneration and/or cell death. The invention further relates to compounds comprising a thiol (—SH) group, for detecting cells undergoing oxidative stress, degeneration and/or a death process. The invention further provides methods for utilizing the compounds in medical practice, for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
US08101660B2 Use of 2,5-dihydroxybenzene compounds and derivatives for the treatment of skin cancer
The present invention relates to the use of a 2,5-dihydroxybenzene derivative of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, isomer, or prodrug thereof for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of, inter alia, skin cancer.
US08101658B2 Nitric oxide donating prostamides
Nitroderivatives of prostaglandins having improved pharmacological activity and enhanced tolerability are described. They can be employed for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
US08101646B2 Amorphous form of an L-arginine salt of perindopril and processes for preparation thereof
In illustrative embodiments, there is provided an amorphous form of L-arginine salt of perindopril which may be particularly suitable for pharmaceutical applications, and processes for preparing said form.
US08101645B2 Thienopyrroles and pyrrolothiazoles as new therapeutic agents
The present invention is directed to novel compounds of Formula (I) wherein the variables are defined as herein. The compounds of Formula (I) are useful as CRTH2 antagonists and as such would be useful in treating certain conditions and diseases, especially asthma, allergic asthma, allergic inflammation, rhinitis, allergic rhinitis or atopic dermatitis.
US08101642B2 3-substituted propanamine compounds
Racemic or enantiomerically enriched 3-substituted propanamine compounds represented by the following structural formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions containing the subject compounds are also disclosed. The subject compounds are useful for the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system, such as depression, anxiety and pain disorders.
US08101630B2 Extended release opioid abuse deterrent compositions and methods of making same
This invention relates to an abuse deterrent dosage form of opioid analgesics, wherein an analgesically effective amount of opioid analgesic is combined with a polymer to form a matrix.
US08101629B2 Salt of 4-[[4-[[4-(2-cyanoethenyl)-2,6-dimethylphenyl]amino]-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]benzonitrile
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising as active ingredient the hydrochloric acid salt of 4-[[4-[[4-(2-cyanoethenyl)-2,6-dimethyl-phenyl]amino]-2-pyrimidinyl]amino]benzonitrile and to processes for their preparation.
US08101626B2 GPR119 receptor agonists in methods of increasing bone mass and of treating osteoporosis and other conditions characterized by low bone mass, and combination therapy relating thereto
The present invention relates to the use of GPR119 receptor agonists for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and for increasing bone mass in an individual. The present invention further relates to the use of a GPR119 receptor agonist in combination with a dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor for treating or preventing a condition characterized by low bone mass, such as osteoporosis, and for increasing bone mass in an individual. A GPR119 receptor agonist and the combination of a GPR119 receptor agonist and a DPP-IV inhibitor promote bone formation in an individual.
US08101619B2 Phenylpiperazine derivatives with a combination of partial dopamine-D2 receptor agonism and serotonin reuptake inhibition
The invention relates to a group of novel phenylpiperazine derivatives with a dual mode of action: serotonin reuptake inhibition and partial agonism on dopamine-D2 receptors. The invention also relates to the use of a compound disclosed herein for the manufacture of a medicament giving a beneficial effect.The compounds have the general formula (1): wherein the symbols have the meanings given in the specification, and tautomers, stereoisomers and N-oxides thereof, as well as pharmacologically acceptable salts, hydrates and solvates of said compounds of formula (1) and its tautomers, stereoisomers and N-oxides.
US08101615B2 1,4-diaryl-dihydropyrimidin-2-ones and their use as human neutrophil elastase inhibitors
The invention relates to novel heterocyclic derivatives of the general formula (I), processes for their preparation, and their use in medicaments, especially for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, acute coronary syndrome, acute myocardial infarction and heart failure development.
US08101614B2 Substituted pyrrolo [1,2-a] pyrazines as calcium channel blockers
The present application relates to calcium channel inhibitors comprising compounds of formula (I), formula (II), formula (III), or formula (IV), wherein L1, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and Rc are as defined in the specification. The present application also relates to compositions comprising such compounds, and methods of treating conditions and disorders using such compounds and compositions.
US08101608B2 Compounds and compositions as protein kinase inhibitors
The invention provides a novel class of compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with abnormal or deregulated kinase activity, particularly diseases or disorders that involve abnormal activation of the Abl, Bcr-Abl, cSrc, TPR-Met, Tie2, MET, FGFR3, Aurora, Axl, Bmx, BTK, c-kit, CHK2, Flt3, MST2, p70S6K, PDGFR, PKB, PKC, Raf, ROCK-II, Rsk1, SGK, TrkA, TrkB and TrkC kinases.
US08101603B2 Tyrosine kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to 5H-benzo[4,5]cyclohepta[1,2-b]pyridine derivatives, that are useful for treating cellular proliferative diseases, for treating disorders associated with MET activity, and for inhibiting the receptor tyrosine kinase MET. The invention also related to compositions which comprise these compounds, and methods of using them to treat cancer in mammals.
US08101593B2 Formulations of deoxycholic acid and salts thereof
The present application is directed to an aqueous pharmaceutical formulation comprising less than about 5% w/v sodium deoxycholate maintained at a pH sufficient to substantially inhibit precipitation of the sodium deoxycholate. Also disclosed herein, are methods for inhibiting precipitation of sodium deoxycholate in an aqueous solution comprising less than about 5% w/v of sodium deoxycholate, said method comprising maintaining pH of the solution of from at least about 8.0 to about 8.5.
US08101585B2 Compositions and methods for the modulation of JNK proteins
The invention provides compositions and methods for the treatment and diagnosis of diseases or disorders amenable to treatment through modulation of expression of a gene encoding a Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1 protein.
US08101584B2 Method and medicament for inhibiting the expression of a given gene
The present invention provides methods and compositions for inhibiting gene expression using double stranded RNA molecules that are between 15 and 21 nucleotides in length and are complementary to a target gene sequence.
US08101579B2 Methods and compositions for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders
Compositions and related methods for treating IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders and conditions (e.g., gastrointestinal motility disorders, functional gastrointestinal disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), duodenogastric reflux, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, functional heartburn, dyspepsia (including functional dyspepsia or nonulcer dyspepsia), gastroparesis, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (or colonic pseudoobstruction), and disorders and conditions associated with constipation, e.g., constipation associated with use of opiate pain killers, post-surgical constipation, and constipation associated with neuropathic disorders as well as other conditions and disorders are described. The compositions feature peptides that activate the guanylate cyclase C (GC-C) receptor.
US08101578B2 Amyloid [β] Beta fibrillogenesis-inhibiting peptide
The present invention provides a peptide which functions as a mimic peptide of an amyloid β peptide and is capable of inhibiting the fibrillogenesis of an amyloid β peptide. The present invention relates to: an 8- to 30-amino acid residue peptide comprising an amino acid sequence represented by the following formula (I): X1-Asp-X2-X3-X4-Pro-X5-X6 (SEQ ID NO: 28)  (I) wherein X1 represents a branched chain amino acid, and X2, X3, X4, X5, and X6 are the same or different and each represents an α-amino acid; a 9- to 30-amino acid residue peptide comprising an amino acid sequence represented by the following formula (III): Z1-X13-Gly-X14-X15-Pro-Trp-Met-Z2 (SEQ ID NO: 31)  (III) wherein X13, X14, and X15 are the same or different and each represents an α-amino acid, Z1 and Z2 are the same or different and each represents cysteine or serine, and when Z1 and Z2 represent cysteine, they may be crosslinked; and a pharmaceutical composition and an amyloid β fibrillogenesis inhibitor comprising the peptide.
US08101573B2 α-conotoxin MII analogs
The invention relates to novel conopeptides and/or novel uses of conopeptides. The conopeptides of the invention are analogs of α-Conotoxin MII that are selective for α6-containing nAChRs as described herein.
US08101567B2 Heteroaryl-containing tripeptide HCV serine protease inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester, or prodrug, thereof: which inhibit serine protease activity, particularly the activity of hepatitis c virus (HCV) NS3-NS4A protease. Consequently, the compounds of the present invention interfere with the life cycle of the hepatitis c virus and are also useful as antiviral agents. The present invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the aforementioned compounds for administration to a subject suffering from HCV infection. The invention also relates to methods of treating an HCV infection in a subject by administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising the compounds of the present invention.
US08101559B2 Polyalkyl (meth)acrylate copolymers having outstanding properties
Copolymers are obtainable by polymerizing a monomer composition containing a) 0% to 40% by weight of one or more ethylenically unsaturated ester compounds of the formula (I), b) 10% to 99.9% by weight of one or more ethylenically unsaturated ester compounds of the formula (II), c) 0% to 80% by weight of one or more ethylenically unsaturated ester compounds of the formula (III), d) 0.1% to 30% by weight of one or more ethylenically unsaturated, polar ester compounds of the formula (IV), and e) 0% to 50% by weight of comonomer, based in each case on the total weight of the ethylenically unsaturated monomers.
US08101557B2 Unsaturated fatty acids and mineral oils as internal breakers for VES-gelled fluids
Fluids viscosified with viscoelastic surfactants (VESs) may have their viscosities reduced (gels broken) by the direct or indirect action of a synergistic internal breaker composition that contains at least one first internal breaker that may be a mineral oil and a second breaker that may be an unsaturated fatty acid. The internal breakers may initially be dispersed oil droplets in an internal, discontinuous phase of the fluid. This combination of different types of internal breakers break the VES-gelled aqueous fluid faster than if one of the breaker types is used alone in an equivalent total amount.
US08101556B2 Treatment fluids for reduction of water blocks, oil blocks, and/or gas condensates and associated methods
The present invention provides treatment fluids useful for subterranean operations, and more particularly, in at least one aspect, a treatment fluid that comprises a carrier fluid and a cationic surfactant comprising a cationic head group, a polar group attached to the head group, and a hydrophobic group that is either a saturated or unsaturated, branched or straight chain alkyl, and comprises about 6 carbons to about 22 carbons. The treatment fluids of the present invention are at least suitable for use as a remedial treatment for the reduction of existing water blocks, oil blocks, and/or gas condensates.
US08101553B1 Antibody library
An antibody library is prepared by selecting a light chain variable region capable of binding to the variable region of heavy chain to reproduce an active conformation and using the same. Because of being capable of maintaining the diversity of the heavy chain variable region at a high ratio in vitro, the antibody library of the present invention is expected as enabling the acquisition of antibodies with various binding activities.
US08101549B2 Control of shoot/foliar feeding pests with pesticide seed treatments
A method of preventing damage to the shoots and foliage of a plant by a pest includes treating a seed having an exogenous gene that encodes for the production of a protein having activity against European corn borer or corn root worm with a composition comprising at least one pyrethrin or synthetic pyrethroid that is selected on the basis of having an activity against an insect other than European corn borer or corn root worm. Treated seeds are also provided.
US08101548B2 Urea phosphite
Urea Phosphite is a new composition of matter useful as a fertilizer and as a fungicide. It is made by reacting phosphorous acid with urea. Urea Phosphite is characterized by being a liquid produced in an unprocessed reaction, and by having phosphite as a phosphorus source and urea as a nitrogen source. The reaction products may be separated, blended with an admix and spray dried, or, dissolved in water.
US08101542B2 Catalyst for oxidizing monoxide and method of preparing the same
Provided are a catalyst for oxidizing carbon monoxide and a method of preparing the same. The catalyst for oxidizing carbon monoxide includes platinum and a transition metal which exists in a bimetallic phase, and the bimetallic phase of the platinum and the transition metal is supported by a support including a vacancy of oxygen. The catalyst for oxidizing carbon monoxide shows much higher activity than a conventional catalyst for oxidizing carbon monoxide even at a relatively low temperature.
US08101537B2 Prepolymerized catalyst for olefin polymerization, method of producing this prepolymerized catalyst and method of producing olefin polymer
A method of producing a prepolymerized catalyst for olefin polymerization comprising a fine powder removal step of removing fine particles from olefin-prepolymerized catalyst particles for olefin polymerization. The prepolymerized catalyst having a low fine particle content is applicable suitably to the field of continuous polymerization of olefins.
US08101535B2 Ceramic ballistic armor product
A ceramic ballistic material and method of manufacture is disclosed. A filler material is provided. The filler material is divided into filler granules collectively having a median diameter approximately 10 microns or less. An amount of carbon is provided. The carbon is divided into carbon particles and the carbon particles are allowed to coat the filler granules. The mixture of carbon-coated filler granules is formed into a ballistic armor shape. The formed mixture is placed in a substantial vacuum. The mixture is introduced to a pre-selected amount of silicon and the mixture of carbon-coated filler granules and silicon is heated to a temperature at or above the melting point of the silicon.
US08101533B2 Fabric treating composition, detergent and softener, and fabric article treated therewith
A fabric treating composition comprising primarily an organopolysiloxane of formula (1) having a viscosity of 100 to 1,000,000 mPa-s at 25° C. is provided. R1 is a monovalent hydrocarbon group, R2 is a monovalent organic group of formula: —R4(NR5CH2CH2)aNR6R7 wherein R4 is a divalent hydrocarbon group, R5 to R7 are hydrogen, monovalent hydrocarbon groups, or R8, R8 is a group of formula: —(CO—C5H10O)b—R9 (R9 is hydrogen or a monovalent hydrocarbon group, b is 1 to 50), a is 0 to 4, with the proviso that at least one of R5, R6 and R7 present in the organopolysiloxane is R8, R3 is hydroxyl, —OR10, R1, or R2, R10 being a monovalent hydrocarbon group, m is 10 to 1,500, and n is 0 to 100, with the proviso that when n=0, at least one R3 is R2.
US08101531B1 Plasma-activated deposition of conformal films
Methods and hardware for depositing thin conformal films using plasma-activated conformal film deposition (CFD) processes are described herein. In one example, a method for forming a thin conformal film comprises, in a first phase, generating precursor radicals off of a surface of the substrate and adsorbing the precursor radicals to the surface to form surface active species; in a first purge phase, purging residual precursor from the process station; in a second phase, supplying a reactive plasma to the surface, the reactive plasma configured to react with the surface active species and generate the thin conformal film; and in a second purge phase, purging residual reactant from the process station.
US08101525B2 Method for fabricating a semiconductor device having a lanthanum-family-based oxide layer
Methods for fabricating a semiconductor device having a lanthanum-family-based oxide layer are described. A gate stack having a lanthanum-family-based oxide layer is provided above a substrate. At least a portion of the lanthanum-family-based oxide layer is modified to form a lanthanum-family-based halide portion. The lanthanum-family-based halide portion is removed with a water vapor treatment.
US08101519B2 Mold, manufacturing method of mold, method for forming patterns using mold, and display substrate and display device manufactured by using method for forming patterns
The present invention relates to a mold, a manufacturing method of the mold, and a method of forming patterns using the mold. The mold may include a main body having a convex portion and a recess portion, and a polymer layer formed over the main body by processing a surface of the main body with a high molecular weight material through a surface treatment.
US08101512B2 Method of enhancing lithography capabilities during gate formation in semiconductors having a pronounced surface topography
In a mesa isolation configuration for forming a transistor on a semiconductor island, an additional planarization step is performed to enhance the uniformity of the gate patterning process. In some illustrative embodiments, the gate electrode material may be planarized, for instance, on the basis of CMP, to compensate for the highly non-uniform surface topography, when the gate electrode material is formed above the non-filled isolation trenches. Consequently, significant advantages of the mesa isolation strategy may be combined with a high degree of scalability due to the enhancement of the critical gate patterning process.
US08101497B2 Self-aligned trench formation
Methods for forming a semiconductor device include forming self-aligned trenches, in which a first set of trenches is used to align a second set trenches. Methods taught herein can be used as a pitch doubling technique, and may therefore enhance device integration. Further, employing a very thin CMP stop layer, and recessing surrounding materials by about an equal amount to the thickness of the CMP stop layer, provides improved planarity at the surface of the device.
US08101494B2 Structure, design structure and method of manufacturing a structure having VIAS and high density capacitors
A method of making a semiconductor structure includes forming at least a first trench and a second trench having different depths in a substrate, forming a capacitor in the first trench, and forming a via in the second trench. A semiconductor structure includes a capacitor arranged in a first trench formed in a substrate and a via arranged in a second trench formed in the substrate. The first and second trenches have different depths in the substrate.
US08101490B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device and apparatus for manufacturing same
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes: irradiating a growth substrate with laser light to focus the laser light into a prescribed position inside a crystal for a semiconductor device or inside the growth substrate, the crystal for the semiconductor device being formed on a first major surface of the growth substrate; moving the laser light in a direction parallel to the first major surface; and peeling off a thin layer including the crystal for the semiconductor device from the growth substrate, a wavelength of the laser light being longer than an absorption end wavelength of the crystal for the semiconductor device or the growth substrate, the laser light being irradiated inside a crystal for the semiconductor device or inside the growth substrate.
US08101487B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor devices with shallow diffusion regions
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device is presented. The method includes providing a substrate and forming a gate stack over the substrate. A first laser processing to form vacancy rich regions within the substrate on opposing sides of the gate stack is performed. The vacancy rich regions have a first depth from a surface of the substrate. A first implant causing end of range defect regions to be formed on opposing sides of the gate stack at a second depth from the surface of the substrate is also carried out, wherein the first depth is proximate to the second depth.
US08101485B2 Replacement gates to enhance transistor strain
Some embodiments of the present invention include apparatuses and methods relating to NMOS and PMOS transistor strain.
US08101481B1 Spacer lithography processes
A spacer lithography process for creating negative features such as, for example, cut-lines, or trenches, and holes is provided. The negative spacer lithography process may be utilized along with positive spacer lithography to fabricate electronic devices or the like. In one embodiment, a process is provided for fabricating a 6-transistor Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM) cell or arrays of 6-transistor SRAM cells using only, or at least primarily, positive and negative spacer lithography.
US08101480B1 Methods of forming transistors and CMOS semiconductor devices using an SMT technique
A method of forming a transistor induces stress in the channel region using a stress memorization technique (SMT). Impurities are implanted into a substrate adjacent a gate electrode structure to produce an amorphous region adjacent the channel region. The amorphous region is then recrystallized by forming a metal-oxide layer over the amorphous region, and then thermally treating the same. The crystallization creates compressive stress in the amorphous region. As a result, stress is induced in the channel region of the substrate located under the gate electrode structure.
US08101475B2 Field effect transistor and method for manufacturing the same
A field effect transistor (FET) and a method for manufacturing the same, in which the FET may include an isolation film formed on a semiconductor substrate to define an active region, and a gate electrode formed on a given portion of the semiconductor substrate. A channel layer may be formed on a portion of the gate electrode, with source and drain regions formed on either side of the channel layer so that boundaries between the channel layer and the source and drain regions of the FET may be perpendicular to a surface of the semiconductor substrate.
US08101474B2 Structure and method of forming buried-channel graphene field effect device
A novel buried-channel graphene device structure and method for manufacture. The new structure includes a two level channel layer comprised of a buried-channel graphene layer with an amorphous silicon top channel layer. The method for making such structure includes the steps of depositing a graphene layer on a substrate, depositing an amorphous silicon layer on the graphene layer, converting the upper layer of the amorphous silicon layer to a gate dielectric by nitridation, oxidation or oxynitridation, while keeping the lower layer of the amorphous silicon layer to serve as part of the channel to form the buried-channel graphene device.
US08101472B2 Method for manufacturing TFT substrate
A method for manufacturing a TFT substrate in which a channel length can be stably formed while the number of masks is reduced. The method includes processing a gate of the n-type TFT, a gate of the p-type TFT, and an upper capacitor electrode by using a half-tone mask instead of some of normal masks to reduce the number of masks, and changing impurity concentrations of semiconductor films located in regions which become a channel of the n-type TFT, a source and a drain of the n-type TFT, a channel of the p-type TFT, a source and a drain of the p-type TFT, and an lower capacitor electrode, by using a pattern of the half-tone mask and a normal mask.
US08101463B2 Method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes placing a chip on a carrier, and applying an electrically conducting layer to the chip and the carrier. The method additionally includes converting the electrically conducting layer into an electrically insulating layer.
US08101460B2 Semiconductor device and method of shielding semiconductor die from inter-device interference
A plurality of stacked semiconductor wafers each contain a plurality of semiconductor die. The semiconductor die each have a conductive via formed through the die. A gap is created between the semiconductor die. A conductive material is deposited in a bottom portion of the gap. An insulating material is deposited in the gap and over the semiconductor die. A portion of the insulating material in the gap is removed to form a recess between each semiconductor die extending to the conductive material. A shielding layer is formed over the insulating material and in the recess to contact the conductive material. The shielding layer isolates the semiconductor die from inter-device interference. A substrate is formed as a build-up structure on the semiconductor die adjacent to the conductive material. The conductive material electrically connects to a ground point in the substrate. The gap is singulating to separate the semiconductor die.
US08101459B2 Methods for assembling semiconductor devices in stacked arrangements by positioning spacers therebetween
A method for assembling semiconductor devices includes providing a first semiconductor device, securing spacers to noncircuit bond pads of the first semiconductor device, and positioning a second semiconductor device on the spacers. Adhesive material may be applied to a surface of one or both of the first and second semiconductor devices prior to positioning of the second semiconductor device, or introduced between first and second semiconductor devices. The noncircuit bond pads may be electrically isolated from other structures of the first semiconductor device or communicate with a ground or reference voltage plane, in which case the back side of the second semiconductor device may communicate with the ground or reference voltage plane upon being positioned against the spacers. Additional semiconductor devices may be added to the assembly. The first semiconductor device may be associated with a substrate. Assemblies and packages at least partially fabricated by the method are also disclosed.
US08101454B2 Method of forming pixel cell having a grated interface
A pixel cell having a photosensor within a silicon substrate; and an oxide layer provided over the photosensor, the oxide layer having a grated interface with said silicon substrate, and a method of fabricating the pixel cell having a grated interface.
US08101451B1 Method to form a device including an annealed lamina and having amorphous silicon on opposing faces
A semiconductor assembly is described in which a support element is constructed on a surface of a semiconductor lamina. Following formation of the thin lamina, which may have a thickness about 50 microns or less, the support element is formed, for example by plating, or by application of a precursor and curing in situ, resulting in a support element which may be, for example, metal, ceramic, polymer, etc. This is in contrast to a rigid or semi-rigid pre-formed support element which is affixed to the lamina following its formation, or to a donor wafer from which the lamina is subsequently cleaved. Fabricating the support element in situ may avoid the use of adhesives to attach the lamina to a permanent support element; such adhesives may be unable to tolerate processing temperatures and conditions required to complete the device. In some embodiments, this process flow allows the lamina to be annealed at high temperature, then to have an amorphous silicon layer formed on each face of the lamina following that anneal. A device may be formed which comprises the lamina, such as a photovoltaic cell.
US08101450B1 Photodetector isolation in image sensors
Shallow trench isolation regions are disposed in an n-type silicon semiconductor layer laterally adjacent to a collection region of a photodetector and laterally adjacent to a charge-to-voltage conversion region. The shallow trench isolation regions each include a trench disposed in the silicon semiconductor layer and a first dielectric structure disposed along an interior bottom and sidewalls of each trench. A second dielectric structure is disposed over the pinning layer. The dielectric structures include a silicon nitride layer disposed over an oxide layer. An n-type isolation layer is disposed along only a portion of the exterior bottom of the trench and the exterior sidewall of the trench immediately adjacent to the photodetector. The n-type isolation layer is not disposed along the remaining portion of the bottom or the opposing exterior sidewall of the trench.
US08101446B2 Diode laser bars and method for the production thereof
There is provided a method for the production of diode laser bars from a wafer, wherein a metal layer is applied to the wafer in such a way that it does not extend up to the later facets of the diode laser bars to be separated, the diode laser bars are separated and stacked one atop another, the metal layer producing a gap between the facets of the stacked diode laser bars and the metal layer being selected in such a way that clogging of the gap during coating of a facet is prevented.
US08101438B2 Method of fabricating printhead integrated circuit with backside electrical connections
A method of fabricating a printhead integrated circuit configured for backside electrical connections. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a wafer comprising a plurality of partially-fabricated nozzle assemblies on a frontside of the wafer and through-silicon connectors extending from the frontside towards a backside of the wafer; (b) depositing a conductive layer on the frontside of said wafer and etching to form an actuator for each nozzle assembly and a frontside contact pad over a head of each through-silicon connector; (c) performing further MEMS processing steps to complete formation of nozzle assemblies ink supply channels through-silicon connectors; and (d) dividing the wafer into individual printhead integrated circuits. Each printhead integrated circuit thus formed is configured for backside-connection to the drive circuitry via the through-silicon connectors the contact pads.
US08101431B2 Integration of fluids and reagents into self-contained cartridges containing sensor elements and reagent delivery systems
Described herein is an analyte detection device and method related to a portable instrument suitable for point-of-care analyses. In some embodiments, a portable instrument may include a disposable cartridge, an optical detector, a sample collection device and/or sample reservoir, reagent delivery systems, fluid delivery systems, one or more channels, and/or waste reservoirs. Use of a portable instrument may reduce the hazard to an operator by reducing an operator's contact with a sample for analysis. The device is capable of obtaining diagnostic information using cellular- and/or particle-based analyses and may be used in conjunction with membrane- and/or particle-based analysis cartridges. Analytes, including proteins and cells and/or microbes may be detected using the membrane and/or particle based analysis system.
US08101429B2 Native analyte as a reference in lateral flow assays
This invention is directed to a lateral flow assay for detecting the presence of an analyte in a liquid test sample. The lateral flow assay represents an improvement in the ability to accurately and with high fidelity to detect the presence or absence of a target analyte in a liquid sample, in part, by encompassing a reference region of immobilized, non-diffusible analyte that allows for detection of any factors that interfere with the interaction and binding of the analyte to the labeled capture reagent. Any influences on the interaction and binding of the analyte that is free in solution in the liquid test sample to its complementary labeled reagent will be encountered in parallel in the binding between the immobilized analyte in reference region to the labeled reagent as it diffuses through the reference region. In one embodiment, the lateral flow assay of the invention is a urine-based human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) assay.
US08101426B2 System and method for the measurement of multiple fluorescence emissions in a flow cytometry system
A system and method for the measurement of multiple fluorescence emissions in a flow cytometry system is disclosed where each excitation light source is modulated with a different frequency. A single detector is used to collect the fluorescent emissions excited by all light sources, and the emissions are segregated using Fourier Transform techniques. Systems and methods for the correction of inter-beam coincidence are also disclosed.
US08101422B2 Multidimensional chromatography apparatus and method
An ion chromatography apparatus comprising: (a) a first chromatography column, (b) a second chromatography column, the volume of the second column being no greater than 0.9 times the volume of the first; and (c) valving disposed between said first and second columns permitting selective transfer of separated ionic species from first chamber to second chamber for further analysis.
US08101420B2 Carbon measurement in aqueous samples using oxidation at elevated temperatures and pressures
Apparatus and methods for measuring the concentrations of organic and inorganic carbon, or of other materials, in aqueous samples are described, together with related, specially adapted components and sub-assemblies and related control, operational and monitoring systems.
US08101418B2 Carbon measurement in aqueous samples using oxidation at elevated temperatures and pressures
Apparatus and methods for measuring the concentrations of organic and inorganic carbon, or of other materials, in aqueous samples are described, together with related, specially adapted components and sub-assemblies and related control, operational and monitoring systems.
US08101413B2 Auto-calibration circuit for analyte measurement
Embodiments provide expanded ability to communicate calibration information to diagnostic systems for determining a characteristic of a test sample. An example system for determining a characteristic of a test sample includes: a test sensor for receiving a test sample; a sensor meter responsive to the test sensor, the sensor meter determining a characteristic of the test sample received on the test sensor; and a calibration element including electrical contacts readable by the sensor meter. The electrical contacts are configurable in one of a plurality of patterns that communicates, to the sensor meter, information relating to the determination of the characteristic of the test sample. The plurality of patterns include two or more of the electrical contacts that are electrically isolated from any other electrical contacts. The sensor meter determines at least partially the information from the electrical contacts by determining a combination of values corresponding to the isolated electrical contacts.
US08101408B2 Insecticidal extract from legume plants and method of preparing the same
The invention may be summarized as follows. The present invention provides insecticides comprised of naturally-occurring compounds, such as, for example, PA1b-related peptides and terpenoid saponins. The present invention also provides for identification and characterization of a synergistic insecticidal effect between peptides and saponins extracted from plants. Furthermore, simplified extraction procedures are provided that avoid the use of a chloroform defatting step or a column chromatography step.
US08101404B2 Plasma extraction apparatus
A system that is suitable for extracting plasma from blood received from a blood supply is provided. The system comprises a housing, an inlet opening for receiving the blood, a filtration chamber comprising a membrane, and a plasma compartment. The membrane forms a barrier between the blood and the plasma extracted from the blood, and the plasma compartment collects the plasma extracted from the blood. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plasma flow path compression chamber for pulling plasma across the membrane. In some embodiments, the system comprises a blood flow path compression chamber for facilitating blood flow. Some embodiments of the system further comprise means for measuring plasma and blood analytes using spectroscopic and biosensor techniques.
US08101398B2 Modified cellulases with increased thermostability, thermophilicity, and alkalophilicity
A modified Family 6 cellulase enzyme comprising a proline residue at position 413 is provided. Genetic constructs and genetically modified microbes comprising DNA sequences encoding the modified Family 6 cellulase are also provided. Family 6 cellulases of the invention display improved thermostability, thermophilicity, alkalophilicity, or a combination thereof, relative to the parent Family 6 cellulases. Such cellulases find use in a variety of applications in industry that require cellulase stability and activities at temperatures, pH values, or both, above that of the native enzyme.
US08101395B2 Halohydrin dehalogenases and related polynucleotides
The present invention relates to novel halohydrin dehalogenase polypeptides and the polynucleotides that encode them. These polypeptides are useful in the production of 4-substituted-3-butyric acid derivatives and vicinal cyano, hydroxyl substituted carboxylic acid esters. The invention also provides related vectors, host cells and methods.
US08101394B2 Recombinantly modified plasmin
Polynucleotides and polypeptides relating to a recombinantly-modified plasmin(ogen) molecule are provided. The plasmin(ogen) molecule has a single kringle domain N-terminal to the activation site present in the native human plasminogen molecule, combined such that no foreign sequences are present, and exhibits lysine-binding and significant enzymatic characteristics associated with the native enzyme.
US08101386B2 Escherichia coli strains which over-produce L-threonine and processes for the production of L-threonine by fermentation
The present invention relates to the fields of microbiology and microbial genetics. More specifically, the invention relates to novel bacteria strains and processes employing these strains for the fermentative production of amino acids such as threonine.
US08101385B2 Materials and methods for the generation of transcripts comprising modified nucleotides
Materials and methods are provided for producing aptamer therapeutics having modified nucleotide triphosphates incorporated into their sequence.
US08101383B2 Method for syngas-production from liquefied biomass
The present invention relates to methods for syngas-production from biomass enabling the conversion of pre-treated biomasses having a high dry-matter content into electricity or oil-based products such as petrol, diesel, chemicals and plastics through the formation of syngas. The biomasses are converted into a biomass slurry having a suitable particle size and dry-matter content for optimal feeding and gasification in a pressurised gasifier.
US08101378B2 Dual expression vector system and screening methods
The present invention features vectors that contain a promoter effective for expression in bacterial cells and a promoter effective for expression in insect cells. The dual promoter system allows use of the same vector in both host cell systems so that construction of only a single vector is needed to express a polynucleotide inserted at a downstream cloning site. In preferred embodiments the vector is used to derive a recombinant baculovirus that is used to infect host cells. In particular vectors the promoters are a baculovirus polh promoter and a T7lac promoter. In particular vectors the promoter effective for expression in bacteria is positioned between the promoter effective for expression in insect cells and a cloning site. The invention also features various high throughput screening methods.
US08101373B2 β-galactosidase donor fragments
Truncated fragments of the small fragment of β-galactosidase are provided that have low affinity for the large fragment of β-galactosidase and provide for robust signals when two fusion proteins are complexed due to the binding of the proteins to which the β-galactosidase fragments are fused. The truncated fragments do not interfere with the complexing of the two proteins and allow for the two proteins to function and be responsive to candidate compounds that affect complex formation.
US08101372B2 Diagnosis and therapy of cancer using SGP28-related molecules
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the diagnosis and therapy of prostate cancer which utilize isolated polynucleotides corresponding to the human SGP28 gene, proteins encoded by the SGP28 gene and fragments thereof, and antibodies capable of specifically recognizing and binding to SGP28 proteins.
US08101362B2 Detection of Clostridium difficile
The invention provides methods to detect C. difficile in biological samples using real-time PCR. Primers and probes for the detection of C. difficile are provided by the invention. Articles of manufacture containing such primers and probes for detecting C. difficile are further provided by the invention.
US08101354B2 Method for screening for a tobiano coat color genotype
A method for screening for a Tobiano genotype includes obtaining a nucleic acid from an equine animal, and analyzing the nucleic acid for the presence of an inversion in a chromosome ECA3q which is indicative of the genotype for Tobiano. The method includes detecting at least one of a telomeric breakpoint of an inverted ECA3q chromosome and/or a centromeric breakpoint of an inverted ECA3q chromosome. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid may be analyzed by the steps of hybridizing the group of probes or primers having the sequences set forth herein in SEQ ID NO:8, SEQ ID NO: 9, and SEQ ID NO: 10, or sequences complementary thereto, and preparing an amplification product. A 209 bp nucleic acid amplification product (SEQ ID NO:11) indicates the presence of the inversion.
US08101347B2 Method and compositions for immunization with the Pseudomonas V antigen
A method of inhibiting, moderating or diagnosing Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is disclosed. In one embodiment, this method comprises inoculating a patient with an effective amount of PcrV antigen.
US08101342B2 DNA vaccine for treating or preventing cervical cancer comprising a gene encoding HPV protein
Disclosed herein is a DNA vaccine for treating cervical cancer including an E5 gene of human papillomavirus (HPV). Also, disclosed is a combination DNA vaccine for preventing and treating cervical cancer including a gene encoding HPV L1 and/or L2 along with the HPV E5 gene.
US08101334B2 Image processing method and image processing apparatus
To provide an image processing method including at least one of recording an image onto a thermoreversible recording medium in which transparency or color tone reversibly changes depending upon temperature, by applying a laser beam with the use of a semiconductor laser device so as to heat the thermoreversible recording medium, and erasing an image recorded on the thermoreversible recording medium, by heating the thermoreversible recording medium, wherein an intensity distribution of the laser beam applied in the image recording step satisfies the relationship represented by Expression 1 shown below, 1.20≦I1/I2≦1.29  Expression 1 where I1 denotes an irradiation intensity of the applied laser beam in a central position of the applied laser beam, and I2 denotes an irradiation intensity of the applied laser beam on a plane corresponding to 95% of the total irradiation energy of the applied laser beam.
US08101326B2 Secure document printing method and system
A method and system for printing documents with one or more embedded security features is provided. Security features are embedded in the document by co-printing magnetic and non-magnetic toner on a receiver before fixation by a fixing station. The combination of magnetic and non-magnetic toners in the image results in image elements that easily show alteration or are undetectable by visual means.
US08101322B2 Constant channel cross-section in a PEMFC outlet
A plate for a fuel cell is disclosed, wherein an inlet aperture is disposed at a first end of the plate and an outlet aperture is disposed at a second end of the plate. The plate includes a first side and a second side. The first side of the plate has a flow field formed therein between the inlet aperture and the outlet aperture, the flow field having a plurality of flow channels formed therein, the plurality of flow channels in communication with a plurality of outlet ports formed in the plate. The second side of the plate has a plurality of drainage channels formed therein adjacent the outlet aperture, the plurality of drainage channels in fluid communication with the outlet ports and the outlet aperture, wherein a cross-sectional area occupied by each of the plurality of flow channels is substantially equal to a cross-sectional area occupied by each of the plurality of drainage channels.
US08101307B2 Fuel cell system with electrochemical anode exhaust recycling
A method of operating a fuel cell system includes providing a fuel inlet stream into a fuel cell stack, operating the fuel cell stack to generate electricity and a hydrogen containing fuel exhaust stream, separating at least a portion of hydrogen contained in the fuel exhaust stream using a high temperature, low hydration ion exchange membrane cell stack, and providing the hydrogen separated from the fuel exhaust stream into the fuel inlet stream.
US08101299B2 Method for producing, maturing and drying negative and positive plates for lead accumulators
A method for producing, maturing and drying negative and positive plates for lead accumulators during which, in a pasting step, the plates are manufactured by introducing lead paste serving as an active material into an electrode support. The plates are directly placed one atop the other in stacks; the plates are matured at temperatures higher than 70° C. while maintaining a residual moisture of the active material, which prevents or reduces a spontaneous oxidation of the lead oxides, to form a porous cross-linked structure comprised of 3- and/or 4-basic lead sulfates, the 3- and/or 4-basic lead sulfates having a greater density than that of the active material that forms the starting material, and; the plates are dried to a desired final moisture while exploiting a permeability, which is suited for the active material due to the porosity resulting from the maturing, and the oxidation of lead remaining in the active material in the plate stack by applying an overpressure or underpressure, which has a pressure difference of more than 10 mbar between an inflow side and an outflow side of the plate stack, by means of oxygen-containing gas flowing through the active material.
US08101297B2 Organic electrolytic solution and lithium battery using the same
An organic electrolytic solution including a lithium salt; an organic solvent including a high dielectric solvent and a low boiling point solvent; and an additive compound containing an electron withdrawing group and hydrocarbon-based substituents. A lithium battery using the organic electrolytic solution can have improved cycle characteristics and cycle life through preventing decomposition of the electrolyte.
US08101291B2 Coated cemented carbide insert particularly useful for heavy duty operations
The present invention relates to coated cutting tool inserts particularly useful for heavy roughing turning operations of very large steel components, such as drive shafts for ships and shafts for wind power plants. The inserts are large with an iC, inscribed circle diameter, of greater than or equal to about 19 mm and a thickness of greater than or equal to about 6 mm with a composition of from about 5 to about 10 wt-% Co, from about 5 to about 12 wt-% cubic carbides or carbonitrides of the metals Ti, Ta and/or Nb, and balance WC with a stratified binder phase enriched surface zone from about 15 to about 40 μm thick. The inserts have an edge rounding before coating of 35-95 μm. The coating comprises a first, innermost layer of TiCxNyOz and a total thickness from about 0.1 to about 1.5 μm, a second layer of TiCxNy with a thickness of from about 4.5 to about 9.5 μm with columnar grains, a third layer of TiCxNyOz with a thickness of from about 0.3 to about 1.5 μm, a fourth layer of a smooth α-Al2O3 with a thickness of from about 4.5 to about 9.5 μm and, a from about 0.1 to about 2 μm thick colored top layer, preferably TiN or ZrN, on the clearance sides. The invention also relates to the method of making such inserts and the use thereof for heavy roughing turning operations of very large steel components.
US08101290B2 Organic compound having electron-transporting and/or hole-blocking performance and its use and OLEDs comprising the compound
Disclosed herein are several organic compounds having electron-transporting and/or hole-blocking performance and their preparation method and use and the OLEDs comprising the organic compound. The organic compounds exhibit high ionization potential (IP), electron affinity (Ea), glass transition temperature (Tg) and high electron mobility, and are a kind of good electron-transporting material with good hole-blocking ability. The devices comprising these compounds as one of the emitting layer, electron-transporting layer (ETL) and hole-blocking layer (HBL) show improved efficiency and better color purity.
US08101289B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and electronic appliance
By use of a 2,9,10-triaryl anthracene derivative in which a diarylamino-substituted aryl group is bonded to the 2-position of a 9,10-diarylanthracene for a light-emitting element, a light-emitting element having high efficiency can be obtained. The emission wavelength of the anthracene derivative is suitable for use in a white light-emitting element. By use of the anthracene derivative for a white light-emitting element, a white light-emitting element having high efficiency can be obtained.
US08101287B1 Housing
A housing includes a substrate; a tin layer deposited on the substrate; a magnesium-tin layer formed between the substrate and the tin layer; a chromium layer deposited on the tin layer; a chromium-tin layer formed between tin layer on the chromium layer; and a chromium oxide or nitrogen layer deposited on the chromium layer. The substrate is made of magnesium or magnesium alloy; the tin layer is comprised of tin; the magnesium-tin layer is a magnesium-tin layer; the chromium layer is comprised of chromium; the chromium-tin layer is a chromium-tin layer; the chromium oxide or nitrogen layer is a chromium oxide nitrogen layer.
US08101278B2 Coated article with absorbing layer
A coated article is provided with an absorbing layer(s). The coating is, in certain example embodiments, designed so that significant changes in visible transmission can be made by adjusting thickness of the absorbing layer without significantly affecting certain other characteristics such as certain color values. Such coated articles may be used monolithically or in the context of insulating glass (IG) units in different embodiments of this invention, and may or may not be heat treated.
US08101274B2 Solid state membranes with surface-embedded glycosylated amphiphilic molecules and micelles formed therefrom
Disclosed herein are glycosylated amphiphilic molecules composed of hydrophobic “tails” and hydrophilic “heads” that self align to form a membrane at the interface of a polar solvent and a non-polar liquid or a solid. The present invention is directed to a solid state membrane, typically a thin film, composed of a non-polar solid material having the hydrophobic “tail” of a glycosylated amphiphilic molecule embedded in or linked to its surface such that the hydrophilic “head” protrudes from the solid surface and presents useful properties to the surrounding environment. A membrane or film in accordance with the present invention is produced when a non-polar liquid, in the presence of a polar solvent and an amphiphilic biological compound, undergoes a transformation from liquid to solid, through thermal, chemical or radiative means, with the resultant effect that the amphiphilic molecule is affixed or “locked” to the surface, more particularly the hydrophobic ends of the amphiphilic compounds are mechanically or chemically linked to or embedded in the non-polar solid. The membrane and micelles produced therefrom remain stable even in the absence of the polar solvent, thereby allowing the hydrophilic components of the amphiphilic compounds to present useful properties at the surface thereof.
US08101267B2 Multilayer polymeric laminates and high strength laminates produced therefrom
The present invention provides for certain multilayer polymeric laminates and high strength laminates produced therefrom. The multilayer polymeric laminates provide improved acoustic barrier properties of the high strength laminates of the present invention.
US08101263B2 Cooling systems using coatings with surface energy gradient
A cooling system comprising a plurality of coolant channels comprising a fluid-impervious surface comprising a base surface, at least one distinct region of the base surface covered by a mixed monolayer, the mixed monolayer comprising a species having a functional group M1 and a species having a functional group M2 where M1 and M2 have different surface energies, the mixed monolayer forming a surface energy gradient within the region and wherein any portions of the surface that border the at least one distinct region have substantially equal surface energies.
US08101259B2 Composite thermally insulating material
A composite thermally insulating material suitable for use in houses, which can manifest high thermal insulation performance when packed into a restricted cavity between outer and inner walls. The composite is constructed from two sheet-shaped fiber-based thermally insulating materials and a vacuum thermally insulating material incorporated between the fiber-based thermally insulating materials. The region between the fiber-based thermally insulating materials and vacuum thermally insulating material can be secured with adhesive agent.
US08101243B2 Method of making sulfur-resistant composite metal membranes
The invention provides thin, hydrogen-permeable, sulfur-resistant membranes formed from palladium or palladium-alloy coatings on porous, ceramic or metal supports. Also disclosed are methods of making these membranes via sequential electroless plating techniques, wherein the method of making the membrane includes decomposing any organic ligands present on the substrate, reducing the palladium crystallites on the substrate to reduced palladium crystallites, depositing a film of palladium metal on the substrate and then depositing a second, gold film on the palladium film. These two metal films are then annealed at a temperature between about 200° C. and about 1200° C. to form a sulfur-resistant, composite PdAu alloy membrane.
US08101240B2 Release coating and process
A release coating having improved stability under aging conditions of heat and humidity is described whose release force can be altered by varying the amount of multi-lobe emulsion polymers relative to release agent.
US08101238B2 Polymeric materials via click chemistry
Adhesive polymers are formed when polyvalent azides and alkynes are assembled into crosslinked polymer networks by copper-catalyzed 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. The condensation polymerization is efficiently promoted by Cu ions either leached from the metal surface or added to the monomer mixture, and strong interactions with metal surfaces are provided by the multiple triazole binding elements produced. The adhesive polymers may be formed either as adhesive polymer coatings or as adhesive polymer cement.
US08101234B2 Highly luminescent color-selective nanocrystalline materials
A nanocrystal capable of light emission includes a nanoparticle having photoluminescence having quantum yields of greater than 30%.
US08101226B2 Extruded solid product for use in foodstuffs
The present invention relates to a solid product comprising an extrudable mixture of an oil in water emulsion and a solid matrix. The solid product may be used in foodstuff e.g. as a beverage additive or as an instant beverage products or. The present invention further provides an oil in water emulsion that is stable under the conditions required to prepare such a solid product. Furthermore, in contrast to traditional spray- and freeze-dried powder based foodstuff additives like creamers, the solid product of the present invention spontaneously disperses when added to a aqueous media, i.e. stirring is not required. Furthermore, it may generate a foam without any foaming agents.
US08101215B2 Process for cosmetic treatment using ferutinine from Ferula genus plants
The invention relates to a process for cosmetic treatment, including the reduction of superficial and deep wrinkles, using ferutinine from Ferula spp extracts.
US08101213B2 Xanthohumol compositions and methods of using same
The present invention provides compositions comprising an effective amount of xanthohumol and honokiol. The present invention comprises compositions comprising an effective amount of xanthohumol and genistein. The present invention comprises compositions comprising an effective amount of xanthohumol and guggulsterone. The compositions of the present invention may be effective to decrease mature adipocytes viability, induce apoptosis of mature adipocytes, increase lipolysis in mature adipocytes, and/or reduce adipogenesis during the maturation of pre-adipocytes. The present invention further provides methods of treating obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis or bone disorders in a subject, which comprise administering to the subject compositions comprising an effective amount of xanthohumol and honokiol, guggulsterone, or genistein.
US08101212B2 Bioactive botanical cosmetic compositions and processes for their production
The present invention is directed to bioactive botanical cosmetic compositions derived from membrane and cell serum fractions of plant cell juice. The present invention also relates to the methods for preparing these bioactive botanical cosmetic compositions and the uses of these compositions in various cosmetic formulations and as topical skin cosmetic applications.
US08101211B2 Compositions for retarding skin aging
A composition for retarding skin aging which contains an edible herb medicine or medicines round in Taiwan, in particular a plant extract or extracts having melanin formation-unhibiting, elastase-inhibiting, hyaluronidase-inhibiting, active oxygen-eliminating and/or radical-capturing type antioxidant activities, and a medicinally acceptable base and/or additives for external dermal application. The composition is useful in promoting skin whitening effects, maintaining the tension and elasticity of the skin, facilitating skin moistening and providing the skin with anti-inflammatory and/or anti-allergic properties.
US08101207B2 Composition containing medicine extremely slightly soluble in water and method for preparation thereof
A composition containing a very low water-soluble drug, which composition is produced by treating, with a supercritical or subcritical carbon dioxide fluid, a mixture containing a very low water-soluble drug and a porous material (exclusive of a porous silica material characterized in that the material has an average pore diameter of 1 to 20 nm, the total pore volume of the material that have a diameter falling within a range of ±40% of the average pore diameter account for 60% or more the volume of all the pores of the material, and, when subjected to X-ray diffractometry, the material exhibits one or more peaks at a diffraction angle (2θ) corresponding to d of 1 nm or more); and a method for producing the composition.The very-low-water-soluble-drug-containing composition of the present invention ensures improved dissolution of the very low water-soluble drug.
US08101206B2 Method of attenuating swelling or inflammation
The present invention provides a method of attenuating the formation or reducing the severity of swelling and/or inflammation in the tissue of a patient via applying a composition comprising a hydrophilic foam substrate and a polymeric hydrophilic agent to a portion of the surface of the skin in an amount and at a location sufficient to attenuate formation of or reduce the severity of swelling and/or inflammation.
US08101202B2 Gentle process for conversion of cystine in keratin-containing materials to lanthionine
Useful materials are produced from keratin containing raw materials by a process that includes gentle lanthionization of cystine disulfide bonds. Hydratable materials are produced for use in medical and cosmetic applications.
US08101199B2 Des-methyl-tocopherol therapy for restenosis prevention
A stent is provided in combination with delivery of a tocopherol agent, and in particular a des-methyl tocopherol agent, and further beneficially a gamma-tocopherol agent, so as to reduce restenosis along the vessel or other lumenal wall where the stent is implanted. In particular applications, the stent is an endolumenal stent, and more specific beneficial applications is an endovascular stent, and the gamma-tocopherol elutes from a coating or carrier coupled with the stent. Certain combinations are provided with the des-methyl-tocopherol or phytyl substituted chromanol, e.g. gamma-tocopherol, combined with an additional agent such as an anti-restenosis agent, e.g. sirolimus, tacrolimus, everolimus, or paclitaxel, in order to provide synergistic benefit to tissues along the stented or recanalized regions. Other forms of tocopherol or tocotrienol, or other phytyl substituted chromanols, and other compounds such as palm oil, are also contemplated, for use to treat restenosis.
US08101192B2 Methods for producing an immune response to tuberculosis
Methods for producing an immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) are disclosed herein. In several examples, the immune response is a protective immune response. In additional embodiments, methods are disclosed for preventing an infection with Mtb, or treating an infection with Mtb. Pharmaceutical compositions for the prevention and/or treatment of tuberculosis are also disclosed.
US08101190B2 Method for diagnosing staphylococcal infections
The present invention relates to a method for determining if an individual is infected by a staphylococcus bacterium, comprising: determining if antibodies directed against at least 2 proteins comprising a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, SEQ ID NO: 4, and SEQ ID NO: 6, are present in a biological sample of the individual, and deducing therefrom that the individual is infected by a staphylococcus bacterium.
US08101188B2 Methods for the modulation of neovascularization and/or the growth of collateral arteries and/or other arteries from preexisting arteriolar connections
Described is the modulation of the neovascularization and/or growth of collateral arteries and/or other arteries from preexisting arteriolar connections. Methods are provided for enhancing neovascularization and/or the growth of collateral arteries and/or other arteries from preexisting arteriolar connections comprising contacting organs, tissue or cells with a colony stimulating factor (CSF) or a nucleic acid molecule encoding said CSF. Furthermore, the use of a CSF or a nucleic acid molecule encoding said CSF for the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions for enhancing neovascularization and/or collateral growth of collateral arteries and/or other arteries from preexisting arteriolar connections is described. Also provided are methods for the treatment of tumors comprising contacting an organ, tissue or cells with an agent which suppresses neovascularization and/or the growth of collateral arteries and/or other arteries from preexisting arteriolar connections through the inhibition of the biological activity of CSFs. Described is further the use of an agent which suppresses neovascularization and/or the growth of collateral arteries and/or other arteries from preexisting arteriolar connections through inhibition of the biological activity of CSFs for the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of tumors.
US08101172B2 Solenopsis invicta virus
A Unique Solenopsis invicta virus (SINV 3) has been identified and its genome sequenced. Oligonucleotide primers have been developed using the isolated nucleic acid sequences of the SINV 3. The virus is used as a biocontrol agent for control of fire ants.
US08101169B2 Ocular gene therapy using avalanche-mediated transfection
The present invention provides a method of treating an ocular disease in a subject. In a first step, a nucleic acid is introduced into cells or a tissue. The nucleic acid is introduced by electron avalanche transfection. With this technique, a high electric field induces a vapor bubble and plasma discharge between an electrode and the surrounding medium. The formation of a vapor bubble generates mechanical stress. Plasma discharge through the ionized vapor in the bubble enables connectivity between the electrode and the surrounding medium, so that mechanical stress and electric field are applied simultaneously, which results in permeabilization of the cells or tissue. This permeabilization in turn allows the nucleic acid to enter the cell or tissue. Cells or tissue containing the nucleic acid are then transplanted into an ocular region of the subject.
US08101164B2 Dual phase drug release system
The present invention relates to conjugate comprising a carrier substituted with one or more occurrences of a moiety having the structure (I): wherein each occurrence of M is independently a modifier having a molecular weight ≦10 kDa; denotes direct of indirect attachment of M to linker LM; and each occurrence of LM is independently an optionally substituted succinamide-containing linker, whereby the modifier M is directly or indirectly attached to the succinamide linker through an amide bond, and the carrier is linked directly or indirectly to each occurrence of the succinamide linker through an ester bond. In another aspect, the invention provides compositions comprising the conjugates, methods for their preparation, and methods of use thereof in the treatment of various disorder, including, but not limited to cancer.
US08101147B2 Small pore molecular sieve supported copper catalysts durable against lean/rich aging for the reduction of nitrogen oxides
A method of using a catalyst comprises exposing a catalyst to at least one reactant in a chemical process. The catalyst comprises copper and a small pore molecular sieve having a maximum ring size of eight tetrahedral atoms. The chemical process undergoes at least one period of exposure to a reducing atmosphere. The catalyst has an initial activity and the catalyst has a final activity after the at least one period of exposure to the reducing atmosphere. The final activity is within 30% of the initial activity at a temperature between 200 and 500° C.
US08101141B2 Unified fuel processing reactor for solid oxide fuel cell
A unified fuel processing reactor for a solid oxide fuel cell can reform hydrocarbon-based fuel into hydrogen-rich gas, remove a sulfur component, and convert non-converted fuel and a low carbon (C2˜C5) hydrocarbon compound into hydrogen and methane in a single reactor. The reactor comprises a primary-reformer which reforms a hydrocarbon-base fuel and generates hydrogen-rich reformed gas, a desulfurizer which removes a sulfur component from the reformed gas, and a post-reformer which selectively decomposes a low carbon (C2˜C5) hydrocarbon in the desulfurized reformed gas into hydrogen and methane. The primary-reformer, desulfurizer and post-reformer are in the unified reactor and isolated, except for a fluid passage, from each other by internal partition walls. The primary-reformer is disposed at a center portion of the reactor. The post-reformer and the desulfurizer are concentrically disposed outside of the primary-reformer.
US08101137B2 Analysis instrument
An analysis instrument for processing a microfluidic device, having sample storage means, a microfluidic device holder, sample loading means for loading sample into a microfluidic device disposed in the holder, processing means for enabling a reaction in a microfluidic device, and detection means for detecting and/or measuring the reaction is disclosed. The microfluidic device holder is adapted to hold the microfluidic device including a tape in position for processing and/or detection. A microfluidic processing device is also disclosed which includes a reaction chamber, and a sample loading chamber into which a sample is injectable. The reaction chamber is operatively connected to the sample loading chamber. A cover extends across at least part of the sample loading chamber. The cover and the reaction chamber include pierceable material and are separated by an overspill cavity configured to accept any overspill of an injected sample. A kit is also disclosed which has the analysis instrument and the microfluidic processing device as described above.
US08101128B2 Injector assemblies and microreactors incorporating the same
A microreactor assembly is provided comprising a fluidic microstructure and an injector assembly. The injector assembly comprises a liquid inlet, a gas inlet, a liquid outlet, a gas outlet, a liquid flow portion extending from the liquid inlet to the liquid outlet, and a gas flow portion extending from the gas inlet to the gas outlet. Further, the injector assembly defines an injection interface with a microchannel input port of the fluidic microstructure. The injector assembly is configured such that the gas outlet of the gas flow portion is positioned to inject gas into the liquid flow portion upstream of the liquid outlet, into the liquid flow portion at the liquid outlet, or into an extension of the liquid flow portion downstream of the liquid outlet and is configured such that gas is injected into the liquid flow portion or the extension thereof as a series of gas bubbles.
US08101120B2 Method for the heat treatment of a profile, device for the heat treatment of a profile and profile
A method and device for the heat treatment of a profile, in particular an extruded profile for aircraft. The profile may be formed by one or more different, in particular curable, aluminium alloys. The method provides that at least two regions of a profile are subjected to a different heat treatment. The device includes a first chamber that encloses a first region of a profile and a second chamber that encloses a second region of the profile, wherein different temperatures can be set in the first and second chambers. The profile has at least two regions that each have different material properties and are formed by differential heat treatment.
US08101119B2 Electromagnetic stirrer
An object is to provide an electromagnetic stirrer that can provide an excellent stirring force more than before. An electromagnetic stirrer has a vertical electromagnetic field generating coil (1) vertically and circumferentially provided on the outer side of a container (5), and a rotational electromagnetic field generating coil (2) provided on the outer side of the vertical electromagnetic field generating coil (1), in which an iron core (3) is inserted between the vertical electromagnetic field generating coils (1) and between the rotational electromagnetic field generating coils (2), the iron core (3) being formed of a magnetic material with magnetic isotropy and having comb teeth 3a extended to the inner surface of the vertical electromagnetic field generating coil (1).
US08101111B2 Method for the production of molded skins from a plurality of plastic materials having improved properties during airbag deployment at low temperatures
The invention relates to a method and a device for the production of plastic molded skins, which are formed by consecutively performing a plurality of partial melting processes of a plurality of plastic materials, wherein the first plastic material is applied to the mold as a plastic powder in a centrifugal molding method and the second plastic material by a spraying method.
US08101103B2 Earbud and method of manufacture
An earbud (10) for carrying sound from a source (16) to a person's ear canal, includes a soft foam body (20) and a sleeve (26) of stiffer material lying within the body. The body is molded around the sleeve and is chemically bonded to the sleeve without an adhesive between them. The earbud is molded around the sleeve by placing the sleeve on a mandrel pin (42) within a mold cavity (32), placing foamable material in the mold and closing the mold. The mold has shoulders with one mold shoulder (52) that abuts one end (46) of the sleeve and another mold shoulder (60) that lies within 0.1 millimeter of the other sleeve end (62), to prevent foaming material from leaking into the space (64) between the mandrel pin and the sleeve passage.
US08101094B2 Terpene, terpenoid, and fullerene stabilizers for fluoroolefins
The present invention relates to compositions comprising at least one fluoroolefin and an effective amount of stabilizer that may be a terpene, terpenoid or fullerene; or a mixture of a terpene, terpenoid or fullerene with other stabilizers. The stabilized compositions may be useful in cooling apparatus, such as refrigeration, air-conditioning, chillers, and heat pumps, as well as in applications as foam blowing agents, solvents, aerosol propellants, fire extinguishants, and sterilants.
US08101083B2 Pre-treatment reverse osmosis water recovery method for brine retentate metals removal
A pre-treatment method for cleaning and maintaining reverse osmosis membrane filters by injecting sulfurous acid into waters with suspended solids in a liquid fraction to be filtered to form sulfurous acid (H2SO3) to acid leach heavy metals into the liquid fraction, reduce alkalinity and mineral scaling, add sufficient SO2 as a biocide to attack bacteria and other micro organisms to prevent membrane fouling, reduce iron to prevent iron deposit build-up, scavenge and remove dissolved oxygen prior to filtration to prevent membrane oxidation, and then sequentially filtering the acidified water through membrane filters to create a metal free permeate and a brine retentate, which can be pH adjusted to remove the heavy metals as metal hydroxide precipitates.
US08101082B2 Waste-activated sludge treatment methods and apparatus
A method for treating waste-activated sludge comprises adding (1) a pozzolanic material to waste-activated sludge to form a mixture. The mixture is homogenized and aerated (2). The pozzolanic material reacts with the waste-activated sludge. The mixture is allowed to settle (3). A portion of the mixture is recirculated (4) from a downstream location to an upstream location. The recycled mixture includes pozzolanic material. Some embodiments provide advantages over existing wastewater treatment methods which may include: reduction or elimination of unpleasant odours, reduction of overall costs, conversion of waste into useful products, and/or reduction or elimination of discharged bacteria or other undesirable materials.
US08101078B1 Wastewater concentrator
Disclosed is a system for reducing the demand of wastewater volume flowing through a wastewater collection piping system and thereby increasing the effective capacity of the system. A portion of the wastewater is diverted from a sewer main. The solids are separated from the liquid, for example, by a vortex separator. The recovered liquid can be treated and made available for reuse or can be disposed of, for example, in a body of water or pumped into the ground. The concentrated solids are reintroduced into the main sewage line in a portion that adjusts the wastewater loading in the sewer main to a predetermined amount or predetermined range. Also disclosed is a system capable of reintroducing the concentrated solids into the sewer main in a portion that adjusts the solids loading in the sewer main to a predetermined amount or predetermined range.
US08101077B2 Device for separating platelets from fluid suspensions
A device for separating platelets from a fluid suspension comprises a mixing chamber operable to receive and mix fluid suspensions and an aggregating agent to form platelet aggregates and residual fluid components. A filter can be configured to be in fluid communication with the mixing chamber and can be further configured to collect platelet aggregates and allow residual fluid components to pass therethrough. The mixing chamber and the filter are operable by a user without input from an external energy source.
US08101071B2 Oil removal reclamation clarifier system and process for use
One aspect of the present disclosure includes an oil removal reclamation clarifier system in communication with a body of oil laden wastewater fluid and a conduit for transporting the fluid to the reclamation clarifier system. The reclamation clarifier system includes an oil removal mixing containment device having an influent port, an agent inlet, a sludge collection section in a lower portion of the device for collecting the dispersed liquid, a sludge outlet, and, at least one decant valves located on or near an upper portion of a sidewall of the oil removal clarifier device for permitting unsettled material to exit from the clarifier.
US08101070B2 Wastewater treatment apparatus
A chemical/biological wastewater treatment apparatus employing rapid sludge chemical dewatering technology in conjunction with an environmental biological system for treating the separated treated wastewater by land applying it for the propagation of biosynthetic fuels and other plants; and/or passing it through aqueous plant, algae, or microbial reduction of the dissolved solids and ammonia for BOD compliance to produce water of sufficient quality to meet open stream and ocean effluent discharge requirements; and disposing of the high BTU low moisture solids.
US08101069B2 External filtering and absorbing device for use in a local containment area
An External Filtering and Absorbing Device for Use in a Local Containment Area contains filter material with a mesh size not less than 50 microns for removing contaminants from ballast or bilge water from a ship or effluent from a storm drain. Examples of contaminants removed are aquatic nonindigenous species such as Fish, Zebra and Quagga Mussels, Asiatic Clam, Aquatic Weeds, Green Crabs, or other suspended particle contaminants. Filtering is accomplished above the ambient water allowing easy visual verification and visual gratification of the efficacy of the filter unlike closed on-board systems. Water and oil permeate the filter and flow into a local containment area where oil is absorbed by absorbent pads held in pockets. The filter is easily removed and can be sent to authorities to demonstrate compliance with environmental standards. Water sampling containers or instruments used with the assembly allow for further compliance monitoring.
US08101063B2 Method of measuring quantity of substrate
A method of measuring a quantity of a substrate contained in sample liquid is provided. This method can reduce measurement errors caused by a biosensor. The biosensor includes at least a pair of electrodes on an insulating board and is inserted into a measuring device which includes a supporting section for supporting detachably the biosensor, plural connecting terminals to be coupled to the respective electrodes, and a driving power supply which applies a voltage to the respective electrodes via the connecting terminals. One of the electrodes of the biosensor is connected to the first and second connecting terminals of the measuring device only when the biosensor is inserted into the measuring device in a given direction, and has a structure such that the electrode becomes conductive between the first and second connecting terminals due to a voltage application by the driving power supply.
US08101058B2 Apparatus for fluid purification
The present invention generally relates to devices able to purify fluids electrically that are contained within pressure vessels, as well as to methods of manufacture and use thereof. Liquids or other fluids to be purified enter the purification device and, under the influence of an electric field, are treated to produce an ion-depleted liquid. Species from the entering liquids are collected to produce an ion-concentrated liquid. Increasing the exterior pressure on the device may reduce the pressure difference between the interior of the device and the exterior, which may reduce manufacturing costs or simplify construction.
US08101057B2 Concentration and cleanup of nucleic acid samples
Methods and devices are described for concentration and cleanup of samples containing bio-molecule analytes (e.g., polynucleotides, such as DNA, RNA, PNA). Various embodiments provide for pH-mediated sample concentration and cleanup of nucleic acid samples with channel devices (e.g., cross-T format, microchannel devices).
US08101054B2 Magnetic particle trapper for a disk sputtering system
A magnetic particle trapper for use in a sputtering system includes a roller cover plate having a plurality of openings arranged and dimensioned to accommodate a plurality of rollers associated with a mechanical transport mechanism of the sputtering system, and a plurality of magnets to trap magnetic particles, the plurality of magnets being attached to the roller cover plate in locations proximate to the plurality of openings.
US08101047B2 Method of correcting gypsum crystal water effect on infrared moisture measurement
Ash composition measurements of calcium carbonate and gypsum in paper is accomplished with a dual X-ray sensor system with one X-ray source that is powered at about 5.9 KV and a second X-ray source that is powered at about 4.2 KV. Corresponding detectors measure radiation from the respective X-ray sources that is emitted from the paper. Data derived from the measurements yields the gypsum and crystal water content in the paper. The dual X-ray sensor system can be employed in conjunction with infrared total moisture measurements of paper products being manufactured on a papermaking making machine, which contain gypsum and calcium carbonate, in order to correct for the gypsum crystal water effect.
US08101031B2 Hollow power transmission shaft and method of manufacturing the same
A hollow shaft material is provided with, on an outer peripheral surface side thereof, for example, a movable induction heating coil wrapped therearound. While a high-frequency current with a predetermined frequency is caused to flow through the induction heating coil, the induction heating coil is axially moved to perform induction hardening of the hollow shaft material from the outer peripheral surface side. At this moment, the frequency of the high-frequency current caused to flow through the induction heating coil is set relatively low as to the small-diameter portions, which have a relatively small thickness, and the frequency of the high-frequency current caused to flow through the induction heating coil is set relatively high as to the large-diameter portion, which has a relatively small thickness.
US08101029B2 Weld metal of high-strength Cr-Mo steel
A weld metal of a high-strength Cr—Mo steel formed by shielded metal arc welding contains: 0.04 to 0.10% by mass C, 0.15 to 0.5% by mass Si, 0.5 to 1.0% by mass Mn, 2.00 to 3.25% by mass Cr, 0.9 to 1.2% by mass Mo, 0.01 to 0.03% by mass Nb, 0.2 to 0.7% by mass V, 0.003% by mass or below and above 0% by mass B, 0.02 to 0.05% by mass O, and the balance of Fe and inevitable impurities. A residual extracted by electrolytic extraction from only an unaffected zone of the weld metal contains precipitated Cr in a Cr content below 0.3% by mass, and precipitated Nb in a Nb content of 0.005% by mass or above.
US08101021B2 Flow method and reactor for manufacturing nanocrystals
A population of nanocrystals having a narrow and controllable size distribution and can be prepared by a segmented-flow method.
US08101020B2 Crystal growth apparatus and manufacturing method of group III nitride crystal
A crystal growth apparatus comprises a reaction vessel holding a melt mixture containing an alkali metal and a group III metal, a gas supplying apparatus supplying a nitrogen source gas to a vessel space exposed to the melt mixture inside the reaction vessel, a heating unit heating the melt mixture to a crystal growth temperature, and a support unit supporting a seed crystal of a group III nitride crystal inside the melt mixture.
US08101016B2 Precast concrete component material mixture and method of precasting
A precast concrete component material mixture and method of precasting, which is used to manufacture sleepers for transportation tracks, and related precast concrete components, are provided. The precast concrete component material mixture include: 891 to 963 kg/m3 of coarse aggregate(ca); 811 to 876 kg/m3 of fine aggregate(fa); pozzolan material containing 90 to 97 kg/m3 of fly ash and 31 to 34 kg/m3 of silica fume; cementing material containing 235 to 350 kg/m3 of cement and 78 to 117 kg/m3 of blast furnace slag; 122 to 165 kg/m3 of water; carboxylic acid superplasticizer, which is 0.7 to 2.0 wt % of the total usage of the pozzolan and cementing material; and steel fiber accounting for 0.5 to 1.0% of the total volume.
US08101014B2 Process for coating metallic surfaces with a multicomponent aqueous composition
The invention relates to a process for coating metallic surfaces with a composition containing silane/silanol/siloxane/polysiloxane, wherein, in addition to a) at least one compound selected from silanes, silanols, siloxanes and polysiloxanes, b) at least one compound containing titanium, hafnium, zirconium, aluminum and/or boron, and c) at least one type of cation selected from cations of metals of subgroups 1 to 3 and 5 to 8, including lanthanides, and of main group 2 of the periodic table of the elements, and/or at least one corresponding compound, the composition contains at least one substance d) selected from: d1) silicon-free compounds having at least one amino, urea and/or ureido group in each case, d2) anions of nitrite and/or compounds having at least one nitro group, d3) compounds based on peroxide, and d4) phosphorus-containing compounds, anions of at least one phosphate and/or anions of at least one phosphonate, as well as e) water, and f) optionally also at least one organic solvent. The invention further relates to corresponding aqueous compositions.
US08101011B2 Coloring matter, ink, ink for ink jet, ink jet recording method, color toner, and color filter
A coloring matter which has a good hue, and is capable of forming an image high in fastness property under various use conditions and environmental conditions, and particularly suitable for an ink. The coloring matter is represented by the following formula (I): wherein in the formula, G represents a heterocyclic group, and n represents an integer of 1 to 3; when n is 1, R, X, Y, Z, Q, and G each represents a monovalent group; when n is 2, R, X, Y, Z, Q, and G each represents a monovalent or divalent substituent, provided that at least one represents a divalent substituent; and when n is 3, R, X, Y, Z, Q, and G each represents a monovalent, divalent or trivalent substituent, provided that at least two each represents a divalent substituent, or at least one represents a trivalent substituent.
US08101003B2 Filter elements; air cleaner; assembly; and, methods
A filter cartridge, a safety element and fluid cleaner assembly are described. The fluid cleaner assembly generally includes a housing having a cover and a primary fluid cleaner section. The filter cartridge generally comprises z-filter media, arranged in a straight through configuration. Preferred cartridges include a seal gasket positioned to extend continuously around at outer perimeter of the straight through flow construction. The fluid cleaner assembly can have a precleaner positioned therein. Preferred features are described. Methods of assembly and use are also provided.
US08100993B2 Hydrogen generator
A hydrogen gas generator generates hydrogen gas by mixing two reactants. The generator has a reaction chamber for receiving a solid reactant. The chamber has a reaction product separator impermeable to the solid reactant and a biasing means for biasing reactant products against the separator. The generator also has a liquid reactant dispenser for storing a liquid reactant and is fluidly coupled to the reaction chamber, such that dispensed liquid reactant reacts with the solid reactant in the reaction chamber to produce hydrogen gas and a waste product that are substantially permeable through the separator. The generator also has a product collector coupled to the reaction chamber for collecting hydrogen gas and waste product that have passed through the separator.
US08100990B2 Methods for integrated fast pyrolysis processing of biomass
Methods, process, apparatus, equipment, and systems are disclosed for converting biomass into bio-oil fractions for chemicals, materials, feedstocks and fuels using a low-cost, integrated fast pyrolysis system. The system improves upon prior art by creating stable, bio-oil fractions which have unique properties that make them individually superior to conventional bio-oil. The invention enables water and low-molecular weight compounds to be separated into a final value-added fraction suitable for upgrading or extracting into value-added chemicals, fuels and water. Initial bio-oil fractions from the process are chemically distinct, have low-water content and acidity which reduces processing costs normally associated with conventional bio-oil post-production upgrading since fewer separation steps, milder processing conditions and lower auxiliary inputs are required. Biochar is stabilized so that it can be handled safely. The integrated fast pyrolysis process includes biomass storage, preparation, pretreatment, and conversion, product recovery and processing to create and store stable biochar and bio-oil fractions.
US08100984B2 Acetabular shell and liner with sterilization channels
A pre-assembled orthopaedic implant adapted for improved gas sterilization. The implant includes a first component adapted for assembly with a second component such that a mating surface of the first component is in close proximity with a mating surface of the second component. At least one gas conduit associated with the mating surface of the first component facilitates a sterilizing gas to penetrate into and dissipate from the interface defined by the mating surfaces.
US08100979B2 Method and system for mammalian joint resurfacing
A method and system for the creation or modification of the wear surface of orthopedic joints, involving the preparation and use of one or more partially or fully preformed and procured components, adapted for insertion and placement into the body and at the joint site. In a preferred embodiment, component(s) can be partially cured and generally formed ex vivo and further and further formed in vivo at the joint site to enhance conformance and improve long term performance. In another embodiment, a preformed balloon or composite material can be inserted into the joint site and filled with a flowable biomaterial in situ to conform to the joint site. In yet another embodiment, the preformed component(s) can be fully cured and formed ex vivo and optionally further fitted and secured at the joint site. Preformed components can be sufficiently pliant to permit insertion through a minimally invasive portal, yet resilient enough to substantially assume, or tend towards, the desired form in vivo with additional forming there as needed.
US08100974B2 Artificial spinal disc
An artificial disc prosthesis is provided. The prosthesis of the present invention enables spinal segment alignment by having a variable height across its surface. The variable height is achieved by an asymmetric artificial nucleus or by at least one variable height end plate.
US08100973B2 Cement-directing orthopedic implants
A cement-directing structure for use in cement-injection bone therapy includes a collapsible, self-restoring braided structure with regions of differential permeability to the bone cement. The regions of differential permeability may be provided by areas where the braided mesh density is greater or lesser than surrounding areas and/or by means of a baffle. After the structure is placed in a void within a bony structure, cement is injected into the interior of the structure then oozes out in preferred directions according to the locations of the regions of differential permeability.
US08100963B2 Biodegradable device
A device that is at least partially formed of a biodegradable polymer. The device can be at least partially formed by MEMS technology. The device can include one or more micro-structures that are also formed by MEMS technology. The device can include one or more agents that can be controllably and/or uncontrollably released from the device.
US08100956B2 Method of and system for thermally augmented wound care oxygenation
An oxygenation and temperature thermal therapy and oxygenation treatment pad with a plurality of air chambers is disclosed for treatment of skin wound tissues. The air chambers are filled and released by a valve assembly that may be separate from or integrated within the blanket. The thermal therapy and oxygenation treatment pad includes a fluid bladder for delivering hot and/or cold therapy to a patient in conjunction with oxygenation. The temperature therapy blanket may also include an air bladder for providing compression. Oxygenation is provided subsequent to initial heating in order to promote oxygen absorption by the wound tissues prior to the cooling thereof which facilitates pulling oxygen into the wound tissues. This Abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an Abstract that allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain subject matter of the technical disclosure. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08100953B2 Bone plate with complex, adjacent holes joined by a relief-space
A bone plate is described which is adapted for use in situ to fix a spatial relationship of at least two bone parts. The bone plate has at least one pair of the bone screw apertures that are adjoined by a relief-space contiguous with the open space of the screw apertures themselves. An adjoined aperture pair forms a complex aperture and has a center-to-center distance d of the apertures along an axis running through the centers of the apertures. The center-to-center distance d is equal to or greater than the sum of the radii (r1+r2) of the heads of the individual bone screw used with the aperture pair.
US08100946B2 Polyaxial bone anchors with increased angulation
A polyaxial bone anchor includes an anchor head, an anchor member, a bushing, a sleeve and a fastener. The anchor head has a longitudinal bore and an inner spherical surface on a lower portion. The bushing is received within the longitudinal bore adjacent the lower portion and includes an exterior spherical surface for interacting with the inner spherical surface in the anchor head, an internal space defining an inner spherical surface for mating with a spherical head portion of the anchor member and a slot. The inner spherical surface of the bushing has a spherical centerpoint and the exterior spherical surface of the bushing has a spherical centerpoint. The spherical centerpoint of the inner spherical surface is vertically displaced toward the bottom end relative to the spherical centerpoint of the exterior spherical surface. The sleeve is received within the longitudinal bore. The fastener is mountable to the anchor head.
US08100943B2 Percutaneous spinal implants and methods
An apparatus includes an elongate member having a portion configured to be deformed from a first configuration to a second configuration. In one variation, the apparatus includes an outer body, having a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration, and an inner body. A portion of the outer body is configured to be disposed between adjacent spinous processes. The inner body is disposed within the interior region of the outer body. The inner body has an outer surface in slidable contact with an inner surface of the outer body.
US08100937B2 Pressure assist system for facilitating vascular hemostasis, and associated method
A pressure assist system for facilitating vascular hemostasis includes a support bar and a midbar extending perpendicularly from a middle portion of the support bar, for supporting a user's thumb when the user grasps the midbar. A base extends perpendicularly from a bottom of the support bar, for supporting the user's knuckles when the user grasps the midbar. A foot for pressing against a wound is configured with a bottom surface of the base. The midbar may be adjustable along the support bar, according to user grip preference. In a related method, a hand-held pressure assist system is provided, having a support bar, a midbar and base extending perpendicularly from the support bar, and a foot beneath the base. A use's thumb and knuckles are positioned over the midbar and base, respectively. The foot is placed over a wound and downward pressure is applied until hemostasis is achieved.
US08100926B1 Surgical clip
A surgical clip comprises an upper jaw (12) and a lower jaw 14), a section lining, and includes a complex shape for the upper jaw (12) comprising a first generally straight section (120) and a second shallow curved section (122) thereby enabling the clip to be inserted down a narrow magazine tube and to be able to be operable into a wide capture opening to capture larger vessels and then closed into a latched position on application of force the relatively straight section (120) and then to the shallow curved section (122).
US08100923B2 Suture locking device and methods
The present invention relates to devices and methods for securing a pair of suture lengths together or for using a single strand of suture to secure tissue(s) together at an operative site in a patient without necessarily tying a knot. The suture lock device may include a suturing securing device having an outer body member having a lumen extending therethrough, the lumen defining a suture path through the outer body, an inner wedge member axially insertable into the outer body member to secure a portion of a suture between the wedge and the interior surface of the lock member, an outer tube carrying the outer body member at the distal end of the outer tube, the outer tube carrying the wedge proximal to the outer body member, and a pusher member slidable within the outer tube to push the wedge into the lock member.
US08100921B2 Methods for reducing gastric volume
The present invention involves new interventional methods for reducing gastric volume, and thereby treating obesity. The procedures are generally performed laparoscopically and may generally be described as laparoscopic plication gastroplasty (LPG) in which, after obtaining abdominal access, spaced apart sites on a gastric wall are engaged, approximated and fastened to create one or more tissue folds forming one or more plications projecting into the gastrointestinal space. The serosal tissue may optionally be treated during the procedure to promote the formation of a strong serosa-to-serosa bond that ensures the long-term stability of the tissue plication. These procedures are preferably carried out entirely extragastrically (i.e. without penetrating through the gastrointestinal wall), thereby minimizing the risks of serious complications.
US08100915B2 Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method
A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient.
US08100912B2 Surgical sagittal saw with quick release indexing head and low blade-slap coupling assembly
A surgical sagittal saw with a head that is able to index, rotate, relative to the longitudinal axis of the saw housing. The head has a neck that extends into an open distal end of the housing. A biasing assembly holds the head and neck sub-assembly in the open distal end of the housing. The biasing assembly is rotatable relative to the housing. A separate lock mechanism selectively holds the head in a fixed orientation around the saw housing longitudinal axis.
US08100909B2 Self-contained assembly for installation of orthopedic implant components onto an orthopedic implant
A self-contained orthopedic implant component assembly provides for concerted or concerted and independent installation of orthopedic components onto an orthopedic implant. The assembly includes a first orthopedic component formation for installation of a first orthopedic component thereof onto the orthopedic implant and a second orthopedic component formation for installation of a second orthopedic component thereof onto the orthopedic implant. The second orthopedic implant formation is carried by the first orthopedic implant formation such that installation of the first orthopedic implant formation into the orthopedic implant at least partially installs the second orthopedic implant formation into the orthopedic implant. One or both of the first and second orthopedic component formations includes a component driver for receipt of installation torque whereby application of rotational torque installs the orthopedic component(s) onto the orthopedic implant. A component driver is detachable from its formation during or after installation of the corresponding orthopedic component depending on form of the self-contained orthopedic implant component assembly.
US08100902B2 Electrode with rotatably deployable sheath
A sheath system for selectively covering a distal end of an electrocautery blade is provided. The sheath system includes a hub having a body portion defining a lumen therethrough and a sheath having a body portion defining a lumen therethrough. The lumen of the sheath is configured and dimensioned to operatively receive an electrocautery blade therein. The sheath is translatably associated with the hub such that rotation of the hub in a first direction results in axial movement of the sheath in a first direction to expose a distal end of the electrocautery blade and rotation of the hub in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, results in axial movement of the sheath in a second direction to cover the distal end of the electrocautery blade. The hub and the sheath may be concentric with one another.
US08100885B2 Cap assembly for use with a prefilled lock solution syringe
A cap assembly is disclosed for use with a lock solution delivery device. The cap assembly includes a housing defining a receptacle and having an inlet end and an outlet end. A plunger is movable axially within the receptacle from a retracted position to an advanced position and is rotatably supported within the receptacle from a first position to a second position. The plunger includes an axial extension configured to non-rotatably engage a syringe connected to the inlet end of the housing. The plunger is positioned to move from the first position to the second position in response to rotatable detachment of a syringe from the inlet end of the housing.
US08100883B1 Right-side coronary sinus lead delivery catheter
A catheter for insertion into the right atrium from the right subclavian vein has an elongate flexible shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion has a preformed shape including a first arc portion having a curvature of from about 20 degrees to about 50 degrees relative to the proximal portion and a second arc portion extending distally from the first arc and having a curvature of from about 135 to about 200 degrees relative to the first portion. The first arc has an arc radius of from about 6 inches to about 10 inches and the second arc has an arc radius of from about 1 to about 2 inches. The catheter terminates in a generally straight terminal portion extending distally from the preformed shape.
US08100875B2 Ostomy coupling
A single-use ostomy appliance is described including an ostomy coupling for releasable coupling first and second portions at a stomal orifice. The two portions may be separable body-side and non-body-side parts, or the two portions may be portions of a unitary ostomy device such as a controlled evacuation device. The coupling includes a mechanical fastener configured such that the coupling is rendered substantially not resecurable after the fastener is released.
US08100874B1 Tissue refining device
A device for use in a system or method of collecting and processing aspirated tissue received from a harvesting device is provided by a canister body having a vacuum port and an evacuation port operable to be placed in communication with a vacuum source, a tissue harvesting port for directing tissue into the canister body received from the harvesting device under suction, and a separator element dividing the canister body into an upper vacuum chamber in communication with the vacuum port and the tissue harvesting port and a lower vacuum chamber in communication with the evacuation port, the separator element including a plurality of apertures enabling fluid to pass between the chambers while restricting tissue from doing the same and a depression with a channel leading to a tissue retrieval port to facilitate processed tissue collection.
US08100857B2 Method and apparatus for indicating or covering a percutaneous puncture site
Systems and methods are disclosed for identifying and deploying a protective cover about a percutaneous puncture site formed by a hypodermic needle. In the preferred embodiment, a marking agent or puncture site covering, the latter of which preferably takes the form of a bandage, is releasably secured upon either the needle hub of the hypodermic needle or on a sliding member or sleeve axially moveable along the length of said needle that forms a marking or detaches therefrom once compressed about the puncture site.
US08100855B2 Methods and devices for eluting agents to a vessel
Systems, devices and methods for eluting an agent at a treatment site are disclosed. The devices include an expandable frame and at least one membrane. The membrane may carry an agent to elute at the treatment site. The membrane may allow blood flow at the treatment site during agent delivery.
US08100852B2 Methods and apparatuses for detecting medical device acceleration, temperature, and humidity conditions
An ambulatory medical device for detecting acceleration, temperature, and/or humidity conditions in or around the medical device is provided. The medical device includes one or more acceleration, thermal, and/or humidity sensors which detect acceleration, temperature, and/or humidity conditions in or around the medical device. In response to detected conditions, the medical device may, among other things, alter the operation of the device, provide an alarm or warning to the user, or transmit data about the detected conditions to another device.
US08100850B2 Pyloric valve devices and methods
A pyloric valve is provided for inhibiting the flow of chyme through the pyloric region of the gastrointestinal tract. The pyloric valve includes a blocking portion having at least one axially-aligned annular flange defining a central opening and a support having a rim and a support surface. The support may be disposed in a nested position wherein the support surface is disposed within the central opening and an inverted position wherein the support surface is disposed away from the central opening. The pyloric valve may further include a sleeve that may have a beveled distal end. The pyloric valve may be constructed of silicon. Also provided are methods of inserting and removing the pyloric valve, which each include a step of manipulating the support between its inverted and nested positions. Insertion and removal systems are also provided for use with the pyloric valve.
US08100845B2 Ankle support with calcaneous control strap
A foot support having straps which receive the calcaneous and wrap around the midfoot in a tensioned state for stabilizing the rearfoot and the midfoot to avoid excessive inversion and eversion of the foot.
US08100844B2 Ambulating ankle and knee joints with bidirectional dampening and assistance using elastomeric restraint
A hinge or joint assembly includes a first member movably connected to a second member to allow angular displacement of the first member relative to the second member in each of extension and flexion (clockwise and counterclockwise) directions, where one elastomeric spring restrains angular displacement in a flexion position, and another elastomeric spring restrains angular displacement in an extension position. In each direction, the angular movement is dampened through compression of the respective elastomeric spring. After dampening the movement in either direction, returning movement is assisted through decompression of the respective elastomeric spring. Alternatively, one or more elastomeric springs are arranged to both dampen through compression and assist through decompression angular movement in each of the flexion and extension directions. The elastomeric spring can provide a pre-determined force deflection curve in compression and an independent rate of return hysteresis in decompression. The elastomeric springs could be urethane.
US08100833B2 Diagnostic imaging system and processing method for producing reduced frame rate images from data collected at a higher frame rates
An image diagnostic system controls a probe to perform radial scanning within a body cavity and to acquire reflected signals through the probe. The system produces data based on the signals, constructs and outputs tomographic images of the body cavity and biotissue surrounding the body cavity. The system includes an extraction unit for extracting portions of the produced data on the basis of a frame rate upon successively outputting the tomographic images, and a first output control unit for forming, based on the extracted data, real time tomographic images of the body cavity and biotissue which are outputted in real time during radial scanning. A storage device stores the produced data, and a second output control unit forms, subsequent to the radial scanning, tomographic images of the body cavity and biotissue based on the stored data which are then outputted.
US08100825B2 Endoscope and supportive member for bending operation of the same
An endoscope includes an insertion portion having a bendable portion; an operation portion from which the insertion portion extends; a first bending operation knob arranged on a surface of the operation portion and including depressions and first protrusions, to bend the bendable portion in a first direction when rotated; and a second bending operation knob arranged over the first bending operation knob and including depressions and second protrusions, to bend the bendable portion in a second direction when rotated. A length of the second protrusion from a center of rotation to a tip portion is longer than a length of the first protrusion from the center of rotation to tip portions of the first protrusions, and the second protrusion has a depression near a projection of a circular orbit of rotation of each tip portion of the first protrusions onto a surface facing the first bending operation knob.
US08100818B2 Beta radiotherapy emitting surgical device and methods of use thereof
A surgical device for localized delivery of beta radiation in surgical procedures, particularly ophthalmic procedures. Preferred surgical devices include a cannula with a beta radiotherapy emitting material at the distal end of the cannula. The surgical device is particularly suitable for use in the treatment of treat Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
US08100805B2 Electronically controlled locking differential having logic-control wire harness
An electronically controlled locking differential includes an electromagnetic coil and a wire harness adapted to logically control operation of the differential and having a circuit. The circuit has a latching switch that is electrically connected to a first source of power and adapted to provide latching power of the differential. A double-pole, double-throw control relay is electrically connected to the latching switch and includes a first switch, a second switch, and a coil. The second switch is adapted to “jump” the latching switch. The circuit is disabled when power to the harness is turned off and in “standby” mode when power to the harness is turned on. Upon the latching switch being activated, current flows from a starting point of the circuit through the circuit to activate the relay, the first switch closes to energize the differential, the second switch closes such that the current “jumps” the latching switch, and the differential is actuated.
US08100804B2 Hydraulic control system and method for automatic transmission for a vehicle
A hydraulic control system for an automatic transmission, which includes a brake, used to establish a first gear step and a reverse gear step. The hydraulic control system includes a first solenoid valve, a second solenoid valve and a control valve, which is switched by a hydraulic signal from the second solenoid valve, and that are operated simultaneously to engage the first-gear step and reverse gear step engagement element; and an neutral gear position engagement control unit that activates both solenoid valves when a shift lever is shifted to neutral to engage the brake. Thus, the generation of a shock may be prevented when the shift lever is shifted from the N position to an R position.
US08100800B2 Integrated motor cooling/clutch backfill system for use in a hybrid transmission
A fluid is supplied to a housing of a hybrid transmission. An overall system line pressure is elevated to induce leakage of the fluid through a control system. The leaked fluid is flowed through at least one backfill passage to the housing of the hybrid transmission. The leaked fluid is flowed over the motors disposed within the housing to cool the motors. The fluid that is flowed over the motors is collected to create a head pressure within the housing. The head pressure forces the collected fluid upwards within the transmission housing and into clutches that are disposed therein.
US08100799B2 Method and system for controlling power inverters in electric drives of vehicles with two-mode transmissions
Methods and systems for driving an automobile are provided. The system includes a prime mover power source and a two-mode, compound-split, electro-mechanical transmission, including first and second motors, coupled to the prime mover power source, a power inverter coupled to the first and second motors, and a processor coupled to the first and second motors and the power inverter. The processor is configured to modify a signal controlling the power inverter utilizing a first voltage distortion compensation method if a modulation index of the signal is less than a first modulation index value and modify the signal utilizing a second voltage distortion compensation method if the modulation index is at least equal to the first modulation index value.
US08100798B2 Element of belt for continuously variable transmission and belt for continuously variable transmission
A belt for a continuously variable transmission and elements used in the belt. The elements include a stopper portion formed integrally with a neck portion erected upwardly from a saddle face to hold a width end portion of the ring. The elements are juxtaposed annularly in a same orientation and fastened by rings disposed on a saddle face of the element thereby forming a belt for a continuously variable transmission. A recessed portion is formed by depressing the saddle face at a corner between a side face of the neck portion and the saddle face; and an inner face of the recessed portion includes a first inner face extending smoothly into the side face of the neck portion and having a relatively larger curvature radius, and a second inner face extending smoothly into the first inner face and having a relatively smaller curvature radius.
US08100793B2 Vehicle belt drive torsion bar tensioner with an improved damping device
A tensioner (1; 50; 60) for a vehicle belt drive, having a housing (2) defining a cavity (3) having an axis (A); at least one arm (4) fitted to the housing (2) to rotate about the axis (A); an idle pulley (5) fitted to the arm (4); a torsion bar elastic member (6) housed at least partly in the cavity (3) and having a first end portion (15) integral with the arm (4), and a second hand portion (16) connected rigidly to a retaining portion (17) to permit tensioning of the elastic member (6); and a damping device (30) for damping oscillation of the arm (4), and having a conical friction member (32) cooperating axially with a mating surface (34) and loaded by axial elastic means (33). The friction member (32) is interposed between the arm (4) and the housing (2); and the elastic member (6) produces an axial thrust component depending on torsion of the elastic member and for pressing the friction member (32) and the mating surface.
US08100792B2 Hydraulic auto-tensioner
A hydraulic auto-tensioner includes a high-pressure oil chamber and a low-pressure oil chamber, and oil (L) in the high-pressure oil chamber passes through a clearance (G) between a cylinder (17) and a piston portion (18) of a plunger and leaks into the low-pressure oil chamber from an end of the clearance (G) near an end surface of the cylinder (17). A recessed groove (40) is provided in an inner peripheral surface of the cylinder (17) by a conical surface (41) having a groove angle of 5 to 15 degrees from the end of the clearance (G), a throttle portion (45) projecting onto the piston portion (18) side is provided further toward the end surface side of the cylinder than the groove (40) in the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder (17), and a throttle gap (A) larger than the clearance (G) is formed between the throttle portion (45) and the piston portion (18).
US08100788B2 Arrowhead
An arrowhead includes a body having a longitudinal axis, a first blade, and a first fastener that extends through a portion of the body and engages the first blade to secure the first blade in position relative to the body. The first fastener is offset relative to the longitudinal axis.
US08100781B2 Metal wood club with improved moment of inertia
A more efficient triangular shape for metal wood clubs or driver clubs is disclosed. This triangular shape allows the clubs to have higher rotational moments of inertia in both the vertical and horizontal directions, and a lower center of gravity.
US08100773B2 Joint
A joint whose number of parts is reduced and whose production process is simplified. The joint has spherical bodies (29a-29d), a circular cylindrical inner hub (20) in which hemispherical receiving sections (22a-22d) for receiving the spherical bodies (29a-29d) are formed in curved surfaces, and an outer hub (10) that has a receiving section (17) for receiving the inner hub (20) and also has longitudinal grooves (12a-12d) integrally formed with the receiving section (17) and in which the spherical bodies (29a-29d) received in the receiving sections (22a-22d) are received.
US08100768B2 Storage medium storing game program and game apparatus
A game apparatus includes a plurality of controllers. Each of the controllers is provided with an acceleration sensor, for example, for detecting a motion thereof. A magnitude of a motion value detected by each of the controllers is determined, and a motion with a maximum value is determined to be effective, and a game processing is executed.
US08100761B2 Gaming machine with a dynamic bonus modifier
There is disclosed a game feature forming part of a gaming machine apparatus (10). The game feature (42) is configured to award a bonus outcome that is determined on the basis of a dynamic bonus modifier (44). The game feature (42) additionally includes a motion indicator (65) associated with the dynamic bonus modifier (44), and during play a value of said dynamic award modifier is adjusted in relation to at least one parameter of a movement of the motion indicator (65). The bonus modifier (44) may be adjusted in concert with, or in response to, the parameter.
US08100760B2 Methods and apparatus for a competitive bonus game with variable odds
A bonus controller for generating a competitive bonus game in a gaming system, the bonus controller having a processor and a memory coupled to the processor. The bonus controller being programmed to: receive wagering data corresponding to a casino game, enter a first player associated with a first gaming apparatus into the competitive bonus game when the first player obtains a qualifying win at the casino game, determine odds for the first player to win the competitive bonus game, vary odds of winning the competitive bonus game for at least a second player after entering the first player into the competitive bonus game, the second player having been previously entered into the competitive bonus game, determine an outcome of the competitive bonus game, and transmit data corresponding to the outcome of the competitive bonus game to a display unit.
US08100753B2 Systems, methods and articles to facilitate playing card games with selectable odds
A system and method may provide playing cards which are selected based on a desired set of payout or house odds and/or house advantage. The system and method may display payout odds for respective player positions. The system and method may operate a playing card handling device to provide the playing cards in a random or pseudo-random fashion, based at least in part on the selected payout or house odds and/or house advantage.
US08100751B2 Horseshoe payline system and games using that system
A pay line system has a novel type of pay line that can be provided in a variety of different display systems, including at least 3×3 reel-type displays, 3×4, 4×3, 3×5, 5×3, 4×5 and 5×4 displays. The pay lines are preferably displayed on 3×5 or 5×3 window formats and comprise “horseshoe” arrays of frames or H-Configuration arrays of frames. The horseshoe arrays may be provided with the horseshoe opening at 0°, 90°, 180°, 270° with respect to vertical on the screen or with respect to the vertical orientation of a column, and the horseshoe may have three adjacent frames parallel to three of the four sides of the rectangular display created by the columns and rows. In a 3×5 display format, this allows for the horseshoe pay lines to provide twelve new pay lines and six H-Configuration pay lines. These new 7-symbol pay lines may be in addition to other pay lines or as alternatives to other pay lines. The preferred pay line is a series of three lines of equal dimensions (e.g., three frames along each line) in which only one line is a connecting perpendicular to two lines and only two lines are parallel to each other (forming a horseshoe or U-shape, or forming an H-shape). The pay lines may be numbered and any winning amounts could be multiplied by the value of the number of the winning pay line.
US08100743B2 Polishing apparatus
A polishing apparatus is used for polishing a substrate such as a semiconductor wafer to a flat mirror finish. The polishing apparatus includes a polishing table having a polishing surface, a top ring body configured to hold and press a substrate against the polishing surface, a retainer ring provided at an outer peripheral portion of the top ring body and configured to press the polishing surface, and a retainer ring guide fixed to the top ring body and configured to be brought into sliding contact with a ring member of the retainer ring to guide a movement of said ring member. Either one of sliding contact surfaces of the ring member and the retainer ring guide which are brought into sliding contact with each other comprises a low friction material.
US08100736B2 Simulated engine sound device for bicycles or the like
A housing supports a rotatable handle grip and is constructed to be received upon the end of a bicycle handlebar in place of a standard hand grip. The housing further supports a dial-type tachometer type readout. A gear drive within the housing responds to movement of the rotatable handle grip to produce tachometer readings. A sound producing device also responds to the handle grip movement to produce engine sounds.
US08100733B1 Paddle blade that allows use of a handle and/or paddle for any way paddling
The invention is the addition to traditional shafts used for stand-up paddling that normally have a standard paddle at one end of the shaft and a handle at the other end of the shaft. The invention incorporates a second paddle attached to the shaft at the location of the handle. The paddle may have an interior opening surrounding a portion of the handle to enable a user to grasp the handle with a user's hand. Alternatively, the body of the paddle can be oriented at an angle relative to the handle so that a gap is formed between an interior surface of the body of the paddle and the handle so that the handle can be grasped by a user's hand with the user's fingers resting in the gap.
US08100732B2 Boat propulsion unit
A boat propulsion unit minimizes a shock upon switching of an engagement state of a clutch mechanism. The boat propulsion unit includes an upper clutch mechanism that is arranged on an axis of a lower drive shaft and that can be switched between an engagement state (first engagement state) in which driving force of an engine is transmitted to a downstream side, and a half clutch state in which the driving force of the engine is reduced and then is transmitted; and an advance-reverse drive that is disposed on an axis of a front propeller drive shaft and a rear propeller drive shaft and that can be switched between a forward travel engagement state and a reverse travel engagement state (second disengagement state) in which the driving force of the engine is transmitted to a front propeller and a rear propeller in order to propel a boat, and a disengagement state (second disengagement state) in which the driving force of the engine is disengaged.
US08100731B2 Electric connector, electronic device, and electrically-conductive touch method
An electric connector has a contact spring. The contact spring includes a fixed portion that is retained by a housing, an involute portion that is extended from the fixed portion into an inward spiral pattern, a revolute portion that is inverted from the involute portion and extended into an outward spiral pattern along the involute portion, an arm portion that is connected to a tail end portion of the revolute portion, a tangential direction of a portion connected to the revolute portion in the arm portion being aligned with a tangential direction of the tail end portion of the revolute portion, and a contact portion that is provided at a leading end of the arm portion to be projected to an outside of the housing, the contact portion abutting on the-other-end electrode to receive a pressing force in a direction in which the arm portion is substantially extended.
US08100720B2 Electrical connector featured with USB/eSATA interfaces
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing defining a mating cavity, a tongue portion forwards extending into the mating cavity and defining thereon first and second faces opposite to each other, and first and second sets of contacts retained to the housing. The first set of contacts includes pairs of differential pairs and grounding contacts arranged at opposite sides of the differential pairs, and each of the differential pairs defines a first contacting section disposed in the first face and a soldering section. The second set of contacts each defines a deflectable cantilevered beam accessible from the second face. At least one of the grounding contacts defines a main section retained in the tongue portion and further extending into the mating cavity along the tongue portion, and the main section is disposed in a plane perpendicular to the first face.
US08100716B2 Electrical connector comprising a sealing mat
Electrical connector including a sealing mat made of a deformable material body having a thick portion and a thin portion having: an upper face a lower face parallel to the upper face, hollow passageways extending along a longitudinal axis from the upper face to the lower face, a housing including a receiving portion, a grid including a compression portion, the sealing mat being compressed between the receiving and compression portions.
US08100715B2 RCA-compatible connectors for balanced and unbalanced interfaces
A socket connector includes a conductive center receptacle, first outer socket contact having a first socket contact surface, second outer socket contact having a second socket contact surface, and non-conductive socket body. The socket contact surfaces are separated longitudinally along an axis of the receptacle. The socket body maintains the socket contacts electrically isolated from each other and the receptacle whenever the socket connector is not mated with a bi-conducting plug connector. A plug connector includes a conductive center pin, first outer plug contact having a first plug contact surface, second outer plug contact having a second plug contact surface, annular insulator, and non-conductive plug body. The plug contact surfaces are separated longitudinally along an axis of the pin. The plug body and insulator maintain the plug contacts electrically isolated from each other and the pin whenever the plug connector is not mated with a bi-conducting socket connector.
US08100713B2 Stacked electrical connector with a new type of spacer
An electrical connector includes a row of terminals arranged in the first direction and including contact portions and soldering tails, an insulative housing in which the contact portions of the terminal are arranged and behind which the soldering tails are arranged and a spacer securely attached to the housing to position the soldering tail. The spacer has a top face and a bottom face and a row of through holes running through the top face and the bottom face to receive the corresponding soldering tails thereof. Each of through holes includes a guiding hole communicating with the top face and a receiving hole communicating with the bottom face. The guiding hole defines guiding faces intersecting with the top face to form a frame intersection. The frame intersections are aligned in the first direction while the receiving holes are offset.
US08100702B2 Receptacle connector
A receptacle connector for receiving a complementary plug includes an insulative housing (100), a number of contacts (200) received in the housing, a metallic shell (300) partially covering the housing and a pair of fixing members (400) assembled between the housing and the shell. The housing has a pair of end walls (103) including a top wall and a bottom wall, a rear wall (104), a pair of side walls (102), and a receiving space (105) defined therebetween for receiving the complementary plug. The rear wall defines a number of receiving channels (113). The top wall defines a top surface (117) and a plurality of receiving slots (111) opened on the top surface. Each contact includes a retention portion (201), a contact portion (202) and a tail portion (205). The top wall forms a protrusion (112) protruded in each receiving slot, and each contact portion has a free end (204) abutting against the protrusion and being capable of moving in the receiving slot when the contact portion is engaged with and deflected by the complementary plug.
US08100700B2 Low profile electrical connector terminal and method of mounting terminal on printed circuit board
An electrical connector assembly comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) having opposite upper and lower surfaces, an insulating housing having opposite top and bottom surfaces and a plurality of terminals disposed on a bottom surface thereof. Each terminal defines a fusible member disposed thereon. The insulating housing can place the terminal on the upper surface of the PCB and is removed from the terminals after the terminals are soldered on the PCB through the fusible members.
US08100698B2 Electrical connector with removable housing
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing and a plurality of contacts received in the housing. Each contact includes a body portion, a spring portion and a soldering tail. The insulative housing includes a smooth top face, a plurality of generally parallel ridges extending from an opposite face to the top face to provide with interposed grooves between every adjacent ridges. The body portions of the contacts are individually engaged in the corresponding grooves and the spring portions extend forwards beyond a front face of the housing. The insulating housing includes a mounting face opposite to the smooth top face for confronting with a printed circuit board and the soldering tails extend downwards beyond the mounting face.
US08100695B2 Simulator for medical training with detachable self-sealing hollow member
Simulator for medical training having at least a detachable, fluid-tight hollow member comprising: at least a portion (1; 25) made of a self-sealing material; an opening (2; 17) to fill said hollow member with a fluid, said opening (2, 17) being provided with closure means (4; 26) or being connected (8) to closure means; fastening means (4,5; 28) to detachably fasten said hollow member to said simulator. The portion made of self-sealing material allows multiple punctures before having to be replaced.
US08100694B2 Infrared aimpoint detection system
An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to an infrared weapon aimpoint and triggering detection system that includes an IRED that is modulated in two modes for training and evaluating first responders who are required to enter buildings and raid houses. The IRED mode is either an aiming mode or a triggered mode. The triggered mode is initiated for a short period when the weapon is fired as sensed by a recoil sensing mechanism. An IRED detector and controller sense and process the signal, and may provide output to an instructor, evaluator or a target controller to control the behavior of a target.
US08100690B2 Method and cooler for cooling hot particulate material
Described is a method as well as a cooler (1) for cooling hot particulate material which has been the subject of heat treatment in an industrial furnace, such as a rotary kiln (3) for manufacturing cement clinker, by which method the hot material from the kiln (3) is directed to an inlet grate (21) in the cooler (1), in which cooling air from an underlying compartment (24) is led via a number of channels (28) through gaps (20) in the inlet grate for cooling the hot material and where compressed air from a separate system (25) via a number of ducts (26) can be intermittently injected into the material on the inlet grate (21). The channels (28) for cooling air are blanked off in connection with the injection of compressed air.
US08100681B2 Molding a battery
A mold for a battery, such as a secondary battery, and a method of molding a battery, such as a secondary battery, using the mold, uses a minimum amount of a molding substance, such as a resin, has its molding time shortened, and has a safety vent of a can being prevented from being fractured by high pressure during a molding process. Runners, through which a resin flows, are arranged parallel to cavities and the safety vent of the can is positioned closest to the gates, into which a resin is injected after the can and a protective circuit board are seated in the cavities. Due to the structure of the runners of the mold and the location of the safety vent of the can, the amount of resin used and the molding time are reduced. A fracture of the safety vent is avoided since a lower pressure occurs at the location closest to the gates during a resin filling process.
US08100679B2 Center mechanism of tire vulcanizer and control method for the same
A center mechanism of a tire vulcanizer is provided with a screwing mechanism provided with a screw shaft and a screw nut screwed onto the screw shaft, a motor for rotating the screw shaft so as to raise and lower an upper ring body, an inverter for controlling the motor, and a mechanical brake for retaining a predetermined position of the upper ring body so that a bladder retains a shaping state. Within a time range from start of a closing action of the upper die to contact between the upper die and the upper ring body, an operation of the mechanical brake is released and position control of the upper ring body by the inverter is started, and at least after the release of the operation of the mechanical brake, a position of the upper ring body is controlled by the inverter. By such a configuration, even when there is an erroneous operation of the brake or incorrect setting, it is possible to prevent damage and breakage of constituent parts and have a simple structure.
US08100675B2 Fluid transporting device, and fluid transporter
A fluid transporting device comprises a tube frame having a tube guide wall for arranging a tube having an elasticity in an arcuate shape, and a rotary pressure mechanism having a plurality of rollers. The rotary pressure mechanism is arranged, when the tube is arranged in the tube frame, on the side opposite to the guide wall side of the tube, such that its center of rotation is aligned with the center of the arc of the tube guide wall. A plurality of push pins are interposed between the tube and the rotary pressure mechanism and are arranged radially of the center of rotation of the rotary pressure mechanism. A switching mechanism moves at least one of the rollers to a position for the push pins to release the tube and a position for the push pins to press the tube.
US08100671B2 Tandem supersonic ejectors for the repressurization of an off gas
Low pressure off gases such as from dry gas seals may be recompressed to a higher pressure using multiple tandem supersonic ejectors in which upstream ejectors operate at a higher nozzle exit Mach number than down stream ejectors and all ejectors are operated at exit Mach numbers greater than 1.
US08100669B2 Micro-pump and micro-pump system
A micro-pump for atomizing and including a main-housing, a nozzle plate, at least an actuator, and a liquid transport pipe is provided. The main-housing has a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, an air inlet, and a micro-droplet outlet. The nozzle plate is assembled to the main-housing and has at least one nozzle. The nozzle plate divides the interior of the main-housing into a first chamber and a second chamber. The nozzle and the liquid inlet are connected with the first chamber. The air inlet, the liquid outlet, and the micro-droplet outlet are connected with the second chamber. The actuator is disposed on at least one of the main-housing or the nozzle plate. The actuator drives the nozzle plate, so that liquid is filled into the first chamber and sprayed out through the nozzle into the second chamber. The liquid transport pipe connects the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet.
US08100665B2 Fan module
A fan module, particularly for cooling motor vehicle engines allows for improved cooling of the fan motor. The fan housing (101) in which the fan motor (105) is arranged has fixed air-channeling elements (109) which are arranged in the region of a fan hub (2) of the fan wheel (1) driven by the fan motor (105) and which only partially cover an outlet cross section (102, 118) defined by the fan housing (101).
US08100637B2 Double suction type centrifugal fan
A double inlet centrifugal fan includes an impeller and fan inlet port. The impeller has a main plate connected to the drive shaft in a fan casing, fan side plates, and a plurality of blades between the main plate and each of the fan side plates. The fan inlet port has an opening corresponding to the inner diameter of the blades. The blades on the side of the larger pressure loss in the suction air passage to the fan inlet port have a smaller inner diameter than the blades on the side of the smaller pressure loss. This equalizes the total pressure increase in the blades along the drive shaft, resulting in a compact double inlet centrifugal fan capable of supplying the required air flow.
US08100635B2 Control of clearance at blade tips in a high-pressure turbine of a turbine engine
A turbine stage in a turbine engine, including a wheel with blades rotating inside a sealing ring held by a casing of the turbine, and an annular thermal protection sheet mounted between the casing and the sealing ring is disclosed. The annular thermal protection sheet is formed by a plurality of curved plates mounted end-to-end and attached by pins to the casing.
US08100630B2 Fluid flow machine with multi-flow rotor arrangement
A fluid flow machine includes at least one casing 1 and at least one rotor drum 3 rotatable about a machine axis 4, with stator vanes 8 and rotor blades 7 being arranged in an annulus duct 2 formed between the casing 1 and the rotor drum 3 The annulus duct 2 is divided into an outer annular duct 5 and an inner annular duct 6 by at least one annular flow divider 11, in each of which rotor blades 7 and stator vanes 8 are arranged Outer rotor blades 7a, which are arranged in the outer annular duct 5, are rotatable at a different speed than the inner rotor blades 7b, which are arranged in the inner annular duct 6.
US08100620B2 Vacuum processing apparatus
A vacuum processing apparatus includes vacuum processing vessels each having a processing chamber with a pressure-reduced interior space, a vacuum transfer vessel which is coupled to the vacuum vessels disposed therearound and which has a low-pressure interior space in which a to-be-processed workpiece is conveyed, an atmospheric air transfer vessel which is coupled to the front side of the vacuum transfer vessel and which includes on its front face side cassette tables mounting thereon a cassette with the workpiece received therein for conveying the workpiece in an interior space under an atmospheric pressure, a position-aligning machine disposed within the atmospheric air transfer vessel at one of right and left ends for adjusting a position of the workpiece, and an adjuster disposed between lower part of this machine and a floor face for adjusting the supply of a fluid being fed to the vacuum processing vessels.
US08100619B2 Corner-cut corrugated fastener
A corner-cut corrugated fastener in accordance with the principles of the invention includes one or more features to facilitate fastening corner joints. The corrugated fastener includes a corrugated body member having a leading edge and a trailing edge opposite the leading edge. The corrugated body member may have a notch along the trailing edge, or chamfers at opposing ends of the leading edge, or both a notch along the trailing edge and chamfers at opposing ends of the leading edge. Additionally or alternatively, the corrugated body member may include a corrugation that extends a full length of each lateral edge extending between the leading edge and the trailing edge in order to provide enhanced strength.
US08100602B2 Apparatus for installing elongate seal strips
A machine or apparatus for installing resilient or elastomeric strip seals of indefinite length in expansion joints in, for example, highways and bridges. The machine includes an open, upper frame connected to a lower frame supported at its four corners by four freely rotating wheels. A pair of clamping pistons on the lower frame includes rollers which are adjusted to engage one face of the expansion joint. A toothed wheel or blade rotates about an inclined axis and is powered by a motor through a speed reducing gearbox. The toothed wheel engages the seal and forces it into a channel on the side of the expansion joint opposite to the side engaged by the rollers.
US08100600B2 Pivoting connector assembly for connecting two members
A connector is configured to connect two frame members. The connector includes a body with a first end and a second end spaced from the first end. A fulcrum is coupled to the body between the first end and the second end. The body is configured to be received in a channel of a frame member and pivots about the fulcrum inside the channel between a first pivot position in which the frame members are free to move relative to one another and a second pivot position in which the frame members are locked against relative movement.
US08100599B1 Handheld surface cleaning device
A surface cleaning device comprising a cleaning element, optionally with an impermeable barrier between wetting and drying parts. The cleaning element may be supported by a main body, e.g., an elongated tubular form, having at least one main body hole for fluid to flow through it to the cleaning element. An inner body has at least one inner body hole and is slideable relative to the main body, in response to finger pressure and preferably an opposing biasing means, between a neutral position and a dispensing position. In the dispensing position, the locations of the inner body and main body allow fluid to flow from the inner body hole into the main body hole. In the neutral position, a seal is formed at least in part by the fit between the inner body and the main body for substantially preventing the flow. Preferably, a stopping component limits outward movement and anti-twist features resist twisting of the inner body relative to the main body.
US08100595B2 Label printing apparatus
A label printing apparatus comprising a cassette receiving bay arranged to receive a cassette; and an engagement member. The engagement member is movable between a first position, in which the engagement member is engaged with the cassette, and a second position in which the engagement member is disengaged with the cassette.
US08100590B2 Maintenance mechanism for lighting equipment in a closed space of high radiation activity
The main objective of the present invention is to provide maintenance mechanism for lighting equipment in a closed space of high radiation activity, which comprises a passage, a lamp base, a multi-section slide rail, a lighting handle, a stainless steel fixation plate, a lead glass lamp guard and a convex lead plug. On the top side of the passage there is a multi-section slide rail with the lamp base attached to move the lamp. The maintenance hole at the end of the passage has a convex lead plug and a stainless steel fixation plate. When the hole closes, the convex lead plug is locked to the lead plug positioning screw under the stainless steel fixation plate; while the maintenance hole opens, on the top right and top left of the stainless steel fixation plate there is a L-shaped short iron plate and a L-shaped long iron plate respectively. On the L-shaped long iron plate there is an axial screw as the axis for the convex lead plug to move and rotate. On the L-shaped short iron plate there is a lead plug positioning screw for the convex lead plug after being pulled out to have temporary fixation. At the radiation space end of the passage there is a semi-circular lead glass lamp guard for the shielding wall to be fixed without moving with the lighting equipment.
US08100564B2 Light emitting device and illuminating device
An illuminating device in which stray lights are prevented and light distribution design is easy by making it possible to receive lights emitted from an LED lamp with an external reflecting mirror as much as possible is provided. A reflecting mirror having a concave reflecting surface reflecting an incident light, a light emitting element, and a lens molding a light emitting element therein and having a lens surface opposed to a light emitting surface of the light emitting element, the lens surface being in a slope shape with its central portion being projected to the light emitting element are included, and the reflecting surface of the reflecting mirror and the light emitting surface of the light emitting element are disposed to be opposed to each other with the lens surface of the lens therebetween so that light emitted from the light emitting element is reflected at the lens surface to be emitted outside the lens to be incident on the reflecting surface of the reflecting mirror.
US08100560B2 Submersible high illumination LED light source
A submersible high illumination light source assembly is disclosed, comprising at least one module. A module comprises a heat sink having a front surface and a rear surface. A printed circuit board comprising one or more electrical connections sized and shaped to couple with a plurality of high-illumination light emitting diode (LED) lamps is in thermal communication with the front surface of the heat sink. The plurality of high-illumination LED lamps are coupled in electronic communication with the printed circuit board via the one or more electrical connections. At least one reflector is sized and shaped to accept the insertion of one or more of the plurality of high-illumination LED lamps. A window is in watertight communication with the reflector plate. The submersible high illumination light source assembly operates both when submerged underwater and exposed to air.
US08100556B2 Light fixture with an adjustable optical distribution
A light fixture includes a member having a substantially frusto-conical shape. A channel extends between a wide top end of the member and a narrower bottom end of the member. The member includes multiple surfaces (“facets”) disposed around its outer surface. Each facet is configured to receive one or more light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) in a linear or non-linear array. Each facet can be integral to the member or coupled to the member. The channel is configured to transfer heat generated by the LEDs through convection. Fins can be disposed within the channel, extending from the inner surface of the member to an inner channel. The fins are configured to transfer heat away from, and provide a greater surface area for convecting heat away from, the member. For example, one or both of the channels can transfer heat by a venturi effect.
US08100549B2 Illuminating lens, and lighting device, surface light source, and liquid-crystal display apparatus each using the same
An illuminating lens includes: a light entrance surface through which light emitted from a light source enters the lens; and a light exit surface through which the light that has entered the lens exits the lens. The light exit surface has: a concave portion intersecting the optical axis; and a convex portion provided around the concave portion to extend continuously from the concave portion. The light exit surface is formed in a shape such that a curvature C of micro-segments of the light exit surface in a cross section including the optical axis has a maximum value at a position outward from the midpoint of the convex portion.
US08100546B2 Rotating fiber optic sculpture
A sculpted decorative object, such as a Christmas tree, is shown which has a motor driven vertical drive shaft and three rotating sections. Rotation of the vertical drive shaft and an associated drive gear causes relative rotation of a driven gear and, in turn, a respective rotating section of the object about the axis of the drive shaft. A fiber optic bundle is mounted within each rotating section of the object. Each bundle contains several fiber optic strands which terminate at a LED light source at one end and at a light emitting element at an opposite end. Each LED light source is supplied from a common electrical source by means of a series of wiper contacts and rotatable contact rings carried by respective stationary and rotating portions of the sculpted object.
US08100543B1 Display system and method equipped with at least one steerable deflecting mirror
A display system and method are provided for displaying an object utilizing at least one mirror. In use, a first angular dimension, a second angular dimension, and a curvature of the mirror are controlled for manipulating the display of the object. By this design, a variety of applications may be provided.
US08100540B2 Light array projection and sensing system
A low cost, light projection and sensing system that projects an image onto a display surface using an array of light emitters. Further, the device has an integral sensing capability of the display surface using light sensors. Both the emitters and sensors are coupled to a control unit. Whereby, the device can modify the light-projected image and sensor view region with its control unit. The device can also project an animated overlaid image or large tiled image of photographic resolution. In operation, the device can determine the position and range of a remote object, along with illuminating its touch sensitive housing with a projected image.
US08100535B2 Stress birefringence compensation in polarizing beamsplitters and systems using same
An optical system is provided. The optical system comprises a first polarizing beamsplitter (PBS), a first reflecting image-forming device, and a first quarter-wave retarding element. An optical system is also provided that comprises an image-forming device, a reflective polarizing layer, at least a first birefringent element disposed on an optical path between the image-forming device and the polarizing layer, and a quarter-wave retarding element. Further provided is an optical system comprising a color combiner unit, at least two polarizing beamsplitters (PBSs), and a first quarter-wave retarding element. The present application also provides methods of compensating for birefringence in an image projection system.
US08100527B2 Intermediate vision with phakic multifocal optics utilizing residual accommodations
In one aspect, the present invention provides a method of correcting vision, which comprises determining a residual accommodation exhibited by a natural, crystalline lens of an eye, and selecting a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL), which exhibits a far-focus optical power (e.g., in a range of about −15 to about +50 Diopters (D)) and an add power (e.g., in a range of about 1 D to about 4 D), for implantation in the eye while retaining the natural lens. The add power of the IOL is selected as a function of the residual accommodation such that a combination of the IOL and the natural lens provides a visual contrast greater than about 10% at a spatial frequency of about 20 cycles/degree for viewing objects at a distance greater than about 30 cm from the eye.
US08100520B2 Inkjet printhead and method of removing bubbles in the same
An inkjet printhead includes an ink flow channel including a pressure chamber, a nozzle to communicate with the pressure chamber, an actuator to provide a driving force to eject ink from the pressure chamber, and a plurality of electrodes, a lower voltage is applied to an electrode closer to the nozzle as compared to an electrode farther from the nozzle to form a non-uniform electric field in the ink flow channel, and a method of removing bubbles in the inkjet printhead.
US08100517B2 Printer with foaming system for cleaning ejecting face
An inkjet printer that has a printhead with an ink ejection face, an ink supply system for supplying ink to the printhead and a foaming system for generating a liquid foam on the ejection face. The liquid foam is a matrix of liquid membranes forming randomly-packed Voronoi polyhedra.
US08100516B2 Three-component pistonless fluid capacitor
A device and method for storing pressure-regulated fluid for a printer is disclosed. The pistonless, pressure-regulated storage device for fluid has three main components: a sealing cap, a mounting base, and a flexible membrane positioned between the sealing cap and the mounting base. The sealing cap has an inlet and an outlet for fluid flow. A pressure sensing device is positioned to monitor the pressure in the fluid storage device. The mounting base has a chamber formed therein and the membrane is positioned over the chamber. The membrane is flexible and configured to conform to the shape of the chamber when the membrane retains fluid, such as ink, from a reservoir. The membrane accumulates fluid until a pressure sensor alerts the pump that the maximum capacity has been reached. When pressure within the storage device falls, such as when downstream demand for ink begins or increases, the pump is signaled to begin filling the storage device.
US08100513B2 Ferroelectric film, process for producing the same, ferroelectric device, and liquid discharge device
A ferroelectric film having a columnar structure constituted by a plurality of columnar grains, and containing as a main component a perovskite oxide which has a composition expressed by a compositional formula A1+δ[(ZrxTi1−x)1−yMy]Oz, where A represents one or more A-site elements including lead (Pb) as a main component, M represents one or more of vanadium (V), niobium (Nb), tantalum (Ta), and antimony (Sb) as one or more B-site elements, zirconium (Zr) and titanium (Ti) are also B-site elements, 0
US08100510B2 Inkjet printhead system and method using laser-based heating
An inkjet nozzle array includes a plurality of nozzles. Each nozzle includes a chamber having an input aperture adapted to receive ink into the chamber and an output aperture through which ink is ejected from the chamber. Each chamber further includes a window adapted to receive electromagnetic radiation and operable to heat ink in the chamber responsive to the electromagnetic radiation and eject an ink droplet through the output aperture.
US08100507B2 Industrial ink jet printer
A printer comprising a base module having a main drive element and a print zone, a main module back plane coupled with the base module, a machine base rail system coupled to the base module, and an expansion module releasably coupled to the machine base rail system between an operating position and a removed position.
US08100503B2 Printhead assembly with protective capping mechanism
The present invention relates to a printhead assembly for a printer. The printhead assembly includes a mounting plate assembly for mounting to a chassis of the printer. An ink ejection printhead is mounted to the mounting plate assembly. A capping mechanism is mounted to the mounting plate assembly. The capping mechanism includes a capping member configured to cap the printhead. A carrier supports the capping member. An actuating mechanism is arranged to effect movement of the carrier back and forth between a first position at which the capping member is located remotely with respect to the printhead and a second position at which the capping member contacts the printhead.
US08100500B2 Ink jet printer having ink maintenance system controlling maintenance in accordance with the ink viscosity by use of a simple structure
An ink jet printer is provided with an ink circulation route which includes an ink jet head, an ink supply tank and an ink collection tank. A measuring unit obtains a value indicative of the flow resistance measured when ink flows from the ink supply tank to the ink collection tank through the ink jet head. A control unit is operable to select one of maintenance operations on the basis of the value indicative of measured flow resistance. When the flow resistance value is lower than a predetermined value, the control unit selects the operation of circulating ink around the ink circulation route as a maintenance operation, and the maintenance unit does not perform the maintenance operation which consumes some amount of ink. This configuration makes it possible to perform maintenance in accordance with the ink viscosity by use of a simple structure.
US08100496B2 Signaling module, liquid container, recording apparatus, and control method
An ink tank receives data signals from a printer and an LED provided on the ink tank is driven on the basis of the received data signals. The LED is driven in an inactive time period that is different from the time period in which the date signals are input to the ink tank.
US08100490B2 Liquid storage device and liquid presence determining method
A liquid storage device includes a storage portion that is configured to store liquid therein, a rotating member that is provided in a bottom portion at inside of the storage portion so as to be capable of rotating, a driving member that is provided at outside of the storage portion in a non-contact state with respect to the rotating member so as to drive the rotating member by magnetic force, the driving member rotating to allow the rotating member to rotate, a detecting portion that is capable of detecting a degree of rotation of the rotating member, and a determining portion that is capable of acquiring difference information of rotation between the rotating member and the driving member on the basis of a detection result by the detecting portion and determining presence of liquid in the storage portion on the basis of the difference information.
US08100489B2 Double-sided printing system
A method for double-sided printing may include ejecting printing fluid from a fluid ejector to a platen configured to receive print media, the platen supporting a nonabsorbent substrate. In any sequence, a first print media side and a second print media side may be printed by ejecting printing fluid from the fluid ejector to the first print media side, and contacting the second print media side with the nonabsorbent substrate to transfer printing fluid from the nonabsorbent substrate to the second print media side. A method for double-side printing may further include increasing the contact between the second print media side with the nonabsorbent substrate to increase transfer of printing fluid.
US08100485B2 Rotating door mechanism and electronic appliance
A rotating door mechanism includes: a front door member having a door panel part having a nearly cylindrical side surface which is opened and closed on a side surface of a cabinet; a base member; and a rotating member, wherein the rotating member is rotatably mounted on the base member, the front door member is movably mounted on the rotating member from a direction of the door front side to a depth direction while the front door member is energized to the door front side, the base member is formed with a guiding part guiding the movement of the front door member, and the door panel part is slid to rotate the rotating member and the front door member is moved with movements in a front/depth direction and in the rotating direction by the rotating member and the guiding part, whereby the door panel part is opened and closed.
US08100478B2 Vehicle seat assembly
A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat base having a rack gear mounted thereto and a seat back pivotally mounted to the seat base with a pinion gear mounted at a lower end thereof. The pinion gear and the rack gear are arranged such that pivotal movement of the seat back effects longitudinal movement of the seat base.
US08100477B2 Synchronizing device for an office chair
The synchronizing device comprises a seat carrier for carrying a seat of said office chair, a seat arm to be connected to a chair column of said office chair, said seat carrier being pivotable in relation to said seat arm about a transverse axis, a backrest arm connected to said seat arm and to said seat carrier such as to be pivotable about a transverse axis, a spring adapted to counter a synchronized movement of said seat carrier and backrest arm, and a sliding member extending substantially in a longitudinal direction of said seat and being articulated to said seat arm, said seat carrier being slidable in relation to said sliding member substantially in said longitudinal direction of said seat.
US08100476B2 Mobile ergonomic rotating adjustable chair with lumbar support
An apparatus for sitting, including: a keystone assembly which connects various parts of the apparatus; a back that provides support for at least a person's back or shoulders; a floating lumbar support, which provides support for a person's lower back, attached to the keystone assembly; a seat that can adjust between a forward tilted and reclined position; a plurality of rollers, disposed on the keystone assembly, on which the seat rests; a central column, attached to the keystone assembly, on which the seat can spin; and a lower torsion spring connected to the seat and disposed on the keystone assembly allowing controlled movement of the seat.
US08100473B2 Automobile seat capable of avoiding whiplash injury
An automobile seat includes a swinging motion restraint mechanism for restraining a swinging motion of a sub-frame relative to side frames. The swinging motion restraint mechanism includes a swing axis mounted on the sub-frame, a swinging motion restraint member rotatably mounted on one of the side frames and having a first contact portion and a second contact portion, both of which are brought into contact with the swing axis one at a time, and an elastic member for biasing the swinging motion restraint member toward the swing axis. In an initial state in which no load is applied to a seat back, the first contact portion of the swinging motion restraint member is held in contact with the swing axis, while when a load greater than a predetermined value is inputted to the seat back in a rearward direction, the sub-frame is caused to swing about a hinge to thereby move a headrest forward, and the second contact portion of the swinging motion restraint member is brought into contact with the swing axis, thereby holding the headrest at a position after the movement.
US08100471B2 Adjustable seat ramp utilizing active material actuation
An adjustable seat ramp adapted for use with a seat base and defining a first angle of inclination, includes a structure translatably disposed within or integrally formed with the base and presenting a first position, and further includes an actuator employing a shape memory material element and configured to cause the structure to translate to a second position, wherein a second angle of inclination is defined.
US08100466B2 Vehicle roof having a modular, multishell structure
A vehicle roof for a passenger car, the vehicle roof having a modular, multishell structure, the vehicle roof including a variably configurable functional shell for providing stiffness to the vehicle roof and configured to be directly attached to a body shell of the vehicle and for variable accommodation of functional elements; an outside roof skin configured to be fixed to an outside surface of the functional shell with a fixing means; and at least one inside lining element configured to be fixed to an inside surface of the functional shell.
US08100465B2 Trailer rear door frame with angled rear sill
A rear frame of a trailer has an elongated horizontal sill having a closed cross-section which is rigid in bending and in torsion. The elongated horizontal sill is formed of a fantail and a base plate attached to an underside of the fantail. The base plate has front and rear sections that are not notched as notching of the sill can weaken it. The front section is horizontal and the rear section is angled upwardly relative to the horizontal front section at a predetermined angle of approximately 22 degrees. The angling of the base plate provides a specialized geometry for accommodating a tuck-under lift gate. The sill also has minimal vertical dimensions to aid in the non-interference with legs of the tuck-under lift gate.
US08100464B2 Vehicle substructure
A vehicle substructure includes a side member inner that becomes a pillar member, a rear side member, and a side member outer. The vehicle substructure includes, for example, a partition as a load transmitting member that is inserted between the side member inner and the rear side member and comes into contact with the wall surface of the side member outer facing a vehicle compartment. It is preferable that the partition have a laminated structure including members and the like. Further, it is more preferable that the vehicle substructure include reinforcing members.
US08100447B2 Shovel with multiple blade faces
A shoveling implement includes an elongate handle which may be pivotally attached to a shovelhead having at least two blade faces. The shovelhead may be configured so that the blade faces always remain at a fixed angle to the ground, or may be designed as a combination scoop and pusher shovel, with either blade being utilized by rotating the handle 180 degrees.
US08100443B2 Safety knob
Rotary knob or handle 1 for opening and/or closing doors, gates or windows, comprising a first part 2 designed to operate a closing mechanism by rotation around a rotation axis X, a second part 3 which is rotatable around substantially the same axis X, a connecting part 5, which is coupled to said second part 3 in rotation around said axis X. The connecting part 5 is movable with respect to the first part 2 along said axis X, between a first position and a second position. In said first position of the connecting part 5, the connecting part 5, and with it the second part 3, are substantially freely rotatable around said axis X with respect to said first part 2. In said second position of the connecting part 5, the connecting part 5 and the second part 3 are rotationally coupled by a dog clutch to said first part 2. The rotary knob or handle 1 is provided with several push buttons 4 on said second part 3, arranged at an angle with respect to said rotation axis X. Any one of said at least two push buttons, when pushed, displaces said connecting part 5 from said first position towards said second position, closing the dog clutch and enabling the operation of the closing mechanism through rotation of the second part 3.
US08100441B2 Electronic device and its latch structure
An electronic device and its push-lock and push-release type of latch structure are provided in the invention. The latch structure includes a platform, an elastic restorable element connected to the platform, and two side bases respectively disposed on two opposite edges of the platform. Each of the side bases has a base body having a loop track with a stopper, a driven element movably disposed on the base body and movable with the platform, and a “U” type rod pivotally connected to the driven element at one end thereof and extending into the loop track at another end thereof.
US08100428B2 Hitch apparatuses
The present invention is a configurable trailer hitch that provides an extended towing position for transferring a tractor force to a load, and a retracted storage position for safely stowing the hitch under a towing vehicle. The trailer hitch has a spring loaded retaining pin which engages a hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the towing position, and a storage latch adapted to hold the hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the storage position.
US08100427B2 Pin box assembly for trailer
A pin box assembly is provided for a trailer. The pin box assembly includes a first section having a trailer attachment point, a second section carrying a king pin and a pivot connecting the first and second sections together. In addition the pin box assembly includes a shock absorber having a first end connected to the first section and a second end connected to the second sections. Still further, the pin box assembly includes an air spring connected between the first and second sections.
US08100423B2 Connector piece for the articulated connection of components located in the suspension of a vehicle
A connector piece for the articulated connection of structural elements of a chassis of a motor vehicle. The connector piece has a main body, formed from at least one metal sheet, which has at least one bearing or joint and includes a housing connected to the main body and an inner part which is fitted within an inside space of the housing and can move relative to the housing. The housing comprises a housing portion that surrounds the inside space and includes at least two sheet-metal strips that are arranged adjacent one another, in a longitudinal direction, and are bent between their ends, in opposite directions transverse to the longitudinal direction, such that the metal strips partially surround the inside space on different sides.
US08100420B2 Skateboard
A skateboard that includes a board (12) with an upper part (30) and a lower part (34), wheel supports (14), as well as elements (28) for orientation of the wheel supports (14), whereby the elements (28) for orientation include a pin (52) whose tip (54) is housed in a recess so as to create a connection that is essentially equivalent to a ball joint; the skateboard is characterized in that in its lower part (34), it includes receiving elements (58) that are manufactured with the board (12) and are able to accommodate each wheel support (14).
US08100416B1 Utility push cart
A utility push cart comprising an elongated frame extending vertically behind a power lawn tool, where the power lawn tool rests against the elongated frame, a top bar attached to a top portion of the elongated frame and protruding horizontally from the elongated frame, a wheel connected to a bottom end of the elongated frame, an upper cage fastened below the top bar against the elongated frame, where the upper cage straps around a motor of the power lawn tool, a lower cage fastened below the upper cage along the elongated frame, where the lower cage straps a tube from the power lawn tool against the elongated frame, and a carrying means behind the elongated frame to support a mulch bag connected to the power lawn tool wherein the carrying means prevents a user from tripping over the mulch bag during use.
US08100415B2 Wheel suspension
The present invention relates to a wheel suspension for mounting on a frame (3) of a vehicle, which, in its direction of propulsion, is arranged to be able to scale an obstacle (7), the wheel suspension (1) comprises a link element (9) arranged rotatably about a rotation point (R), to which rotation point (R), via the frame (3), can be applied a force (Gx) for propulsion, the link element (9) comprises a first and a second wheel axle (11, 13), the second wheel axle (13) serves as a moment axis (X) about which the link element (9) tends to rotate when a force (F) is applied to the first wheel axle (11) in the direction opposite to the direction of travel. The link element (9) acts as a lever arm by virtue of the rotation point (R) being situated at a distance from an imaginary straight line (L) intersecting the first and the second wheel axle (11, 13) and in a plane transversely to the extent of the moment axis (X).
US08100409B2 Metallic cylinder head gasket
A metal gasket has at least two metal layers having an aligned fluid-conveying opening. One of the metal layers includes a carrier layer and an active layer. The active layer has a raised metal sealing bead circumscribing the opening. The carrier layer and the active layer are at least partially coplanar and are spaced from one another within the plane by at least one cut-out region between the carrier layer and the active layer. The cut-out region allows the active layer to move out of the plane of the carrier layer, and thus, the active layer is able to self-adjust for sealing engagement between opposing surfaces in assembly and during use.
US08100408B2 Sealing element
A sealing element is provided for placement between first and second components, wherein the first component includes a cylindrical cavity with a step-shaped shoulder which narrows the cavity, and the second component is a cylindrical component for placement in the cavity. The sealing element comprises a stiffening body with a L-shaped longitudinal cut surface, with the first leg of the L shape being provided extending between the jackets of the cavity and of the second component, and the second leg being provided essentially in the region of the shoulder extending between the two components and at least in partial regions for touching the shoulder and the end side of the second component. The sealing element also comprises a sealing body which is made integrally continuous with a first sealing region for contact with the peripheral surface of the outside jacket of the second component and with a second sealing region for contact with an annularly peripheral region on the end surface of the shoulder of the first component.
US08100399B1 Paper guide support extension attachments
A printing device has at least one printing engine, at least one media path adjacent the printing engine, and a paper tray adjacent the media path. The paper tray stores media and supplies the media to the media path. Further, at least one sheet guide is attached to the paper tray, and at least one rectangular member is attached to the sheet guide. The rectangular member has a sheet guide opening, and the sheet guide opening attaches to the sheet guide. The rectangular member has a first planar surface that is coplanar with a second planar surface of the sheet guide. Also, the first planar surface is at least twice the two-dimensional size of the second planar surface. The first planar surface and the second planar surface contact media stored within the paper tray.
US08100394B2 Method and device for affixing a marking ribbon to a book or a brochure
A marking ribbon (2) is affixed to a book block (3) in that a partial book block (10; 10.1 . . . 3) with at least one sheet (8.3) has the marking ribbon (2) is placed on the top sheet (8.3) before at least one other sheet (8.4) is deposited on the partial book block (10; 10.1 . . . 3) with the marking ribbon (2) placed thereon during the additional gathering. The gathered book block (12) with the marking ribbon (2) is subsequently bound and trimmed on three sides at the non-bound edges.
US08100387B2 Combination oil/gas-operated spring with expansion vessel
A combination oil/gas spring includes a first hollow casing, a piston capable of fluid-tightly sliding within the casing, a rod connected rigidly with an end portion thereof to a central portion of the piston, a first chamber containing an actuating rod provided inside the casing, a second sealed chamber provided within the same casing on the opposite side of the piston, a mass of hydraulic fluid filling the second sealed chamber, a second hollow casing and a respective second piston provided to slide therewithin, a first conduit connecting the interior of the second sealed chamber with the interior of the second hollow casing, a first valve connected to the first conduit and adapted to selectively open and close it, a second conduit being provided to connect an expansion vessel to the first conduit at a position upstream of the first valve, and a second valve being provided on the second conduit. The combination oil/gas spring also includes a pressure-exerting unit adapted to act by exerting a controllable pressure upon the surface of the liquid in the expansion vessel.
US08100372B2 Display mount for corner installations
The invention provides a corner mount apparatus for a flat screen display that is installable on either the left-wall or right-wall of a corner. The corner mount system includes a wall bracket having a first side edge and a second side edge. A first angled surface extends at an angle from the first side edge, and it includes at least one opening. The wall bracket also has a securing region with at least one hole. The corner mount system may further include an interface member. The interface member has a tapered opening defined by opposed flanges. The interface member has an aperture that is aligned with the opening of the first angled surface of the wall bracket. A fastener is received by the aperture and the opening to couple the interface member to the wall bracket. The corner mount system also includes a support arm assembly for supporting the flat screen display. The support arm assembly includes a connector, a first arm and a flat screen display bracket. The connector is slidably received by the tapered opening of the interface member to couple the support arm assembly to the interface member and wall bracket.
US08100362B2 Cockpit and aircraft including such cockpit
A cockpit and an aircraft including such cockpit. The cockpit includes a front section of an aircraft. Such cockpit includes a pressure bulkhead sealing the section and a pressurization system for pressurizing such section.
US08100354B2 Apparatus for processing utility waste with biodegradable organic material content
An apparatus containing crushing screws (11) of the same pitch direction and without central shaft, provided with short drive shafts (112) on their driven end, wherein the rotational axis of the discharging screw (151) and the plane determined by the rotational axes of the two crushing screws (11) define an acute angle.
US08100351B2 Method and device for grinding hot, wet raw material
The invention relates to a method and a device for grinding hot, wet raw material.The invention is particularly suitable for the cement industry and the grinding and simultaneous drying of cement clinker, slag and aggregates. In order to achieve a throughput increase and energy saving, as well as an improvement in the product quality, particularly with mixed cements, there is a simultaneous grinding and drying through a controlled supply of a cooling gas in the upper mill part with a relatively high hot gas inlet temperature in the lower mill part. The cooling gas supplies ensures a predetermined gas-product temperature downstream of the classifier and replaces or significantly reduces the disadvantageous cooling water injection.
US08100344B2 Fuel injector with fuel pressure sensor
A fuel injector which may be employed in injecting fuel into an internal combustion engine. The fuel injector includes an injector body and a head body formed to be separate from the injector body. The head body has installed therein a fuel pressure sensor working to measure the pressure of fuel in the fuel injector and is joined detachably to the injector body. The fuel injector alternatively includes an injector body and a fuel pressure-sensing unit equipped with a fuel pressure sensor. The fuel pressure-sensing unit is installed detachably on the injector body. This structure provides enhanced productivity of the fuel injector and facilitate the ease of replacement of the fuel pressure sensor.
US08100341B1 Solar power augmented heat shield systems
A dual air cavity roof has a continuous upper cavity which is cooled by fans, while the lower cavity is generally sealed. Preferably the cavities are separated by a radiant barrier. The fans are preferably powered by one or more photovoltaic cells that are also disposed on the roof. The roof can be pre-cooled with cooler night air and fans only activated when necessary to remove heat from the solar load on the upper cavity. When it is desirable to remove heat, the fan speed is optimized in each zone of the roof to enhance the natural convective flow to the optimum level. A radiant barrier can also cover the roof substrate, which is optionally an existing roof that is in need of repair. The roof structure is preferably assembled in parallel modules using insulating support brackets that support the outer surface and the barrier that separates the upper and lower cavity.
US08100336B2 Method of unblocking a locked application using a personal identification number
The invention relates to a method of securing applications on a chip card which is disposed in a digital appliance. A count is made of the number of times a personal identification number of a chip card application is input erroneously. When this number reaches a threshold, the application or the chip card is blocked. The erroneous input count and unblocking the chip card or the application is restarted when the personal identification number of the chip card is input. In this way, PIN-secured applications offer a high level of security without requiring the storing of additional unblocking data.
US08100323B1 Apparatus and method for verifying components of an ATM
An automated banking machine is provided which may comprise a trusted platform (TP) including a trusted platform module (TPM) in a computer of the machine. Through use of the TP, the machine may perform cryptographic functions for use in enabling the machine to perform transaction functions for users. The machine may be operative to use the TP to securely store secret keys, or other critical information in sealed storage on a data store of the machine. The TP may also be used to measure, attest, and verify transaction function devices, hardware devices, firmware, software, and/or other components of the machine prior to enabling the machine to function in an enabled mode. The TP may also be used to establish secure communication between components of the machine. The TP may also be used to perform key transfers between the machine and a host banking system.
US08100322B1 Systems, apparatus, and methods for obtaining satisfaction ratings for online purchases
Systems, apparatus, and methods are disclosed for collecting and combining consumer satisfaction ratings for online purchases. Users may be prompted for purchase satisfaction after an expected delivery date. Information from one or more user responses may then be compiled and used to rate online vendors.
US08100318B1 Joining of tungsten alloys
A process of making useful shapes by joining of tungsten alloys. Joining of tungsten heavy alloys which are alloys typically made from W—Ni—Fe is used. These alloys are typically manufactured by liquid phase sintering. This leads to difficulty in producing large length to diameter ratio parts that have some significant weight (such as penetrators). A “brick and mortar” approach is employed wherein smaller segments of this alloy (low length to diameter ratio) are joined to together to produce a larger part with higher length to diameter ratio.
US08100302B2 Pump and nozzle liquid flow control system
This invention disclosed herein relates to a pump apparatus for use with a liquid container for transferring liquid from a liquid container. It comprises a pump means comprising a manually-operable pump for pumping liquid and formed with a pump chamber through which liquid can be pumped by the pump. It also has an inlet opening for receiving liquid into the pump chamber and an outlet opening for dispensing liquid out of the pump chamber when liquid is pumped through the chamber using the pump. There is a coupling means for mounting the pump means to the opening of a liquid container to permit the gravitational flow of liquid into the pump chamber through the inlet opening when the mounted pump means is placed on ground level and the pump pumped.
US08100299B2 Counter-mounted viscous liquid dispenser and mounting system
The present invention provides an in-counter viscous liquid dispensing system. The features of the viscous liquid dispensing system include a quick mounting reservoir assembly that allows an installer to install the reservoir assembly in any orientation of the reservoir assembly to the counter mounted parts of the system. Other features include a mounting system which allows an installer to install the in-counter dispensing system with out the need to work both above and below the counter top.
US08100289B1 Container with integral lid retained onto the top of the sidewall of the container by a living hinge, the container used to retain hot liquids
A container used to retain hot liquids in manner which enables the liquid within the container to be consumed by a person holding the container in the person's hand and drinking the liquid when the lid is in either the open or closed condition. The container has the unique features of having a self-sealing lid which is retained on the container through a living hinge.
US08100286B2 Tie system for plastic containers
A tie system for plastic containers intended to provide greater rigidity and stability, wherein each tie comprises a central bar having two ends with clasps that fit with protuberances existing in the container.
US08100280B1 Collapsible laundry hamper
A collapsible laundry hamper comprising a collapsible frame and a panel member removably attached to the frame to enclose and define the hamper. The frame includes a top frame member, a bottom frame member, and a set of elongate upright frame members disposed therebetween. Each of the upright frame members comprises at least two sub-members. The members are biased into engagement with each other via a biasing member. The biasing member maintains the frame members in a rigid frame position. The members are capable of being pulled apart against the biased engagement provided by the biasing member and articulated to allow the frame to be placed into a collapsed position. When either one of the top frame member and the bottom frame member is pulled away from the other in the collapsed position, the frame is urged to return to the rigid frame position under the influence of the biasing members.
US08100279B2 Storage container and corner post thereof
A storage container is provided, having a first container and a second container. Each of the first and second containers includes top and bottom front rails, first and second front corner posts, and first and second side panels. In each of the first and second containers, the top and the bottom front rails and the first and second front corner posts are disposed at a front end thereof to define an opening into the interior thereof. The front end of the first container and the front end of the second container face each other. The first and second side panels of the first container are spaced to define a first interior width therebetween. The first and second front corner posts of the first container are spaced to define a second interior width therebetween. The first and second interior widths of the first container are substantially equal to each other.
US08100278B2 Drink bottle with a promotional object
Drink bottle with a promotional object, characterised by the plastic or glass body (1) of the drink bottle being on at least one point provided with a concave recess (2), into which a object (3) is inserted and at least a part of the surface of the drink bottle with the object (3) is covered with wrapping (4), constituting namely the drink bottle label, when the cover (4) is advantageously made of shrink-wrap.
US08100268B2 Chutes for sorting and inspection apparatus
A chute for inspection and sorting apparatus is disclosed. It comprises two sections; a first, upper section (6) and a lower, grooved section (2). The first section has a smooth, normally polished surface which allows product pieces thereon to move laterally as well as downwards. In the lower section (2) product pieces are restricted in their lateral movement by the grooves (12) and move into alignment with the grooves before being discharged into the inspection zone (22) of the apparatus. If the apparatus is for inspection only, then the product pieces continue to a collection receptacle. If the apparatus is for sorting, then an ejector (26) is included which acts in response to signals from the inspection station to eject selected pieces from the product stream. Those are deflected into a reject receptacle (28) while the remainder proceed into the collection receptacle (24).
US08100257B1 Sub basket
A sub basket having a bottom portion and four sides defining an interior, and an open top section, and a series of pins positioned on the floor portion of the sub basket and extending into the interior of the sub basket where the pins are sized to allow a sub to slide over the pins.
US08100252B2 Object repositioning system
In one embodiment, an object repositioning system configured for use in association with a conveyor includes opposed gates positioned over the conveyor and oriented in an initial partially-closed position in which the gates define an opening through which objects conveyed by the conveyor can pass that is narrower than a width of the conveyor, a locking mechanism configured to lock the gates in the initial partially-closed position, and an actuation mechanism configured to release the locking mechanism to enable the gates to pivot when an object conveyed by the conveyor contacts both of the gates at the same time.
US08100240B2 Control system and method for controlling an operational mode of a vehicle via multiple clutch assemblies
A first clutch assembly has an active state for transmitting rotational energy and an inactive state for not transmitting rotational energy. A generator has a generator shaft associated with the first clutch assembly. A second clutch assembly has an active state for transmitting rotational energy and an inactive state for not transmitting rotational energy. A transmission has a transmission shaft directly or indirectly associated with the second clutch assembly. A third clutch assembly has an active state for transmitting rotational energy and an inactive state for not transmitting rotational energy. An engine has an engine shaft associated with the third clutch assembly. A controller establishes an operational mode of the vehicle by controlling the states of the first clutch assembly, the second clutch assembly, and the third clutch assembly.
US08100232B2 Actuating device for a brake
The invention relates to an actuation device for a brake (40, 41, 42, 43, 50), for applying an output force (FA) to means (40, 41, 42, 43, 50) which generate braking force, depending on an input parameter (FE), comprising a lever (1) and a force generator (7) which brings a force (FFeder) to bear on the lever (1) at an effective angle (α), relative to the longitudinal axis of the lever (1). Furthermore, an alternative actuating device for a brake is given, which permits a significant reduction of the power and energy requirements relative to direct-acting actuating devices. The above is achieved by means of a low-friction actuation characteristic as a result of the construction features of the actuating device and/or the selection of materials used. A preferred field of application is in electrically-driven braking systems on commercial vehicles.
US08100230B2 Elevator system with virtual landing
An elevator system includes at least two independently operable elevator cars in an elevator shaft. The elevator system includes a virtual landing.
US08100223B2 Systems and methods for determining an absolute position of a motor in an active front steering system of a vehicle
Systems and methods for determining an absolute position of a motor of an active front steering system of the vehicle are provided. In particular, the systems and methods accurately determine an absolute position of the motor upon startup of the active front steering system.
US08100219B2 Device for orientating rear wheels
A device for orientating rear wheels of a vehicle, including: a rear axle fitted with two orientable wheels; an actuator including: a body with a lubricated guide bearing and an actuating member that can move relative to the body, guided by the bearing, and the movements of which orientate the wheels about the vertical of the rear axle; a temperature sensor; and a control circuit for the actuator, configured to lock movements of the actuating member when the temperature determined by the temperature sensor is below a predetermined threshold value.
US08100217B2 Vehicle with hand control system
The subject of the present invention is a vehicle that includes a hand control system that allows for vehicle acceleration and braking by using hand controls. The hand controls are electronically connected to vehicle controllers, which electronically control the propulsion system and brake system. The hand controls do not mechanically manipulate the accelerator and brake pedals and so can be easily removed from the vehicle.
US08100212B2 Tractor
Provided are a vehicle body frame, a support frame that is erected on the vehicle body frame and that supports a hood, a steering wheel, a steering column that is erected on the vehicle body frame and that supports the steering wheel, an instrument panel, an operation panel that is provided below the steering wheel and that has a display window at a position facing the instrument panel, and a connecting member connected at one end to the support frame and connected at the other end to the steering column; wherein the instrument panel is mounted on the connecting member.
US08100203B2 Diamond impregnated bits and method of using and manufacturing the same
A drill bit that includes a body having a lower end face for engaging a rock formation, the end face having a plurality of raised ribs extending from the face of the bit body and separated by a plurality of channels therebetween; and at least one of the plurality of ribs having a cutting portion of the at least one rib comprising a first diamond impregnated matrix material and at least a portion of a gage surface region thereof comprising a second diamond impregnated matrix material, the gage surface region backed by a third matrix material is disclosed.
US08100202B2 Fixed cutter bit with backup cutter elements on secondary blades
In an embodiment, a drill bit for drilling a borehole comprises a bit body having a bit axis and a bit face. In addition, the drill bit comprises a primary blade extending radially along the bit face. Further, the drill bit comprises a plurality of primary cutter elements mounted to the primary blade. The primary blade is free of backup cutter elements. Still further, the drill bit comprises a secondary blade extending radially along the bit face. Moreover, the drill bit comprises a plurality of primary cutter elements mounted to the secondary blade. In addition, the drill bit comprises a first plurality of backup cutter elements mounted to the secondary blade in a first backup row that trails the primary row. Further, the drill bit comprises a second plurality of backup cutter elements mounted to the secondary blade in a second backup row that trails the first backup row.
US08100201B2 Rotary drill bit
A rotary drill bit (10) is provided for drilling a hole in a subsurface formation. The bit body (12) includes a plurality of axially extending ribs (16a, b, c and d) and a flow channel between adjacent ribs. A plurality of cutting elements are fixedly mounting on a respective one of the plurality of ribs. A plurality of flow nozzles (20a, b, c and d) direct fluid to a respective one of the plurality of cutting elements to clean and cool the cutting elements.
US08100200B2 Chuck assembly for a down-hole drill
A chuck assembly, an assembly for an earth-boring drill assembly, and a method of retaining a drill bit for an earth-boring drill assembly, the drill assembly including a casing. The assembly includes a drill bit having a generally cylindrical head, a chuck connectable to the casing and operable to support the bit, the chuck having an outer surface with a radially-outwardly extending chuck ridge, an axially-extending first slot being defined in the ridge, a sleeve having an inner surface with a radially-inwardly extending sleeve ridge engageable with the chuck ridge to limit axial movement of the sleeve relative to the chuck, the sleeve having a first lug supported on the inner surface, the first lug being positionable in the first slot to limit relative rotational movement between the sleeve and the chuck. The assembly may also include a retainer assembly provided between the sleeve and the bit.
US08100197B2 Method and device for the production of bores
A method and a device for the production of a bore with a special shape, for example a bore which deviates from a cylindrical shape or a bore with an undercut. First, a first bore portion is produced using an oscillatingly driven tool, the first bore portion having a shape deviating from a cylinder and having at least one projection projecting from the wall face of the first bore portion towards the bore center. Subsequently, when a bore with an undercut is to be produced, the tool is then at least partially rotated about its longitudinal axis, in order to produce a second bore portion which has a larger cross section than the first bore portion.
US08100196B2 Method and apparatus for collecting drill bit performance data
Drill bits and methods for sampling sensor data associated with a state of a drill bit are disclosed. A drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation comprises a bit configured for receiving a data analysis module. The data analysis module comprises at least one sensor, a memory, and a processor. The processor is configured for executing computer instructions to filter information derived from sensor data in the drill bit to develop a piecewise polynomial curve of the sensor data. Filtering information derived from the sensor data comprises approximating a first derivative of a sensor data waveform, calculating a plurality of zeros for the first derivative of the sensor data waveform, and fitting a cubic polynomial between adjacent zeros calculated from the first derivative of the sensor data waveform resulting in a piecewise cubic polynomial.
US08100195B2 Motor cooling radiators for use in downhole environments
Example motor cooling radiators for use in downhole environments are disclosed. A disclosed example radiator comprises a cylindrical housing having an annular passageway. The housing defines an inlet at a first end of the housing and an outlet at a second opposite end of the housing. A channel is arranged within the annular passageway of the housing along a spiral path to transport the first liquid and to define a spiral flow passageway between the inlet and the outlet for the second liquid. In operation, the first liquid does not contact the second liquid and heat is transferred between the first and second liquids as the second liquid flows in the spiral passageway.
US08100194B2 Notched coulter/disc
A coulter or disc having a plurality of directional notches therein is used in one rotational direction for one use and an opposite rotational direction for a different use. The notches are selected from many arcuate shapes and sizes. The notches taper from sharp to dull from one end to the other, but in use one can chose to lead with the dull or the sharp end of the notches. A method of making and using such coulters or discs is described and shown.
US08100186B2 Expansion system for expandable tubulars and method of expanding thereof
Methods and apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming an expandable tubular member using a lower expansion cone and an upper expandable cone. The apparatus includes an expandable tubular, a support member releasably secured to the expandable tubular, and an extendable section below where the support member is releasably anchored. An upper expandable cone is attached to the extendable section and in a retracted state and an anchor is disposed below the upper expandable cone. The anchor is releasable from below the upper expandable cone. A lower expansion cone is disposed below the anchor. An expansion sleeve is disposed in the lower end of the expandable tubular. The lower expansion cone is configured to expand the expansion sleeve radially outward to an outer diameter greater than the inside diameter of the expandable tubular when axially displaced downward by the extendable section.
US08100183B2 Reinforced polymeric siphon tubes
A siphon tube having a polymeric material into which at least one continuous reinforcing agent is embedded, and wherein the at least one reinforcing agent runs substantially the length of the siphon tube. The polymer material can be one or more polymers selected from one or more high density polyethylenes, one or more polyamides, and one or more fluoropolymers.
US08100178B2 Method of oil recovery using a foamy oil-external emulsion
An improved method of producing hydrocarbons from a subterranean formation in which a solids-stabilized emulsion (SSE) is formed, the SSE comprising oil as a first liquid, droplets of a second liquid suspended in the oil, and solid particles that are insoluble in both the oil and the second liquid at the conditions of the subterranean formation. The SSE with dissolved gas is injected into the subterranean formation as a drive fluid, and at least a portion of the SSE is placed into one or more area of the subterranean formation having an in situ pressure sufficiently lower than the selected partial pressure to permit evolution of at least a portion of the gas from the oil. Furthermore, a method of making the foamy SSE is also provided.
US08100175B2 Fracturing head with replaceable inserts for improved wear resistance and method of refurbishing same
Fracturing heads with one or more replaceable wear-resistant inserts have annular sealing elements for inhibiting fracturing fluids from circulating between the inserts and a main body of the fracturing head. Worn inserts and degraded sealing elements are easily replaced to refurbish the fracturing head without replacing or rebuilding the main body. Service life of the main body is therefore significantly prolonged. In one embodiment, an entire flow path through the main body is lined with wear-resistant replaceable inserts to further prolong the service life of the main body.
US08100167B2 Method and a device for detecting an abnormality of a heat exchanger, and the use of such a device
A method and a device for detecting an abnormality of a heat exchanger exchanging heat between a first fluid flow flowing in a conduit and a second fluid flow flowing along a flow path, said conduit and said flow path each having an inlet and an outlet, whereby the method comprises the steps of establishing at least one parameter representative of the temperature conditions of the heat exchanger, establishing a second fluid inlet temperature, establishing a parameter indicative of expected heat exchange between the heat exchanger and the second fluid, processing the heat exchanger temperature, the second fluid temperature and the parameter indicative of expected heat exchange for establishing an estimated second fluid outlet temperature, and employing the estimated second fluid outlet temperature for evaluating the heat exchange between the first and second fluids by comparing the estimated second fluid outlet temperature, or a parameter derived therefrom, with a reference value.
US08100164B2 Movable partition systems including intumescent material and methods of controlling and directing intumescent material around the perimeter of a movable partition system
Movable partition systems include a movable partition and an intumescent material positioned to seal a gap at a periphery of the partition. In some embodiments, masses of intumescent material may be shaped and positioned to expand toward one another, contact one another, and form a seal therebetween at a periphery of the partition when the movable partition is exposed to fire. A fire barrier may be provided by extending a partition along a track assembly, and heating an intumescent material to cause the intumescent material to expand, char, and form a seal extending along at least a portion of a periphery of the movable partition. Upon installing a movable partition, at least one mass of intumescent material may be positioned to seal at least a section of a gap at a periphery of the movable partition when the at least one mass of intumescent material is exposed to fire.
US08100154B2 Reconstitution system for mixing the contents of a vial containing a first substance with a second substance stored in a cartridge
A transfer assembly for transfering a fluid to a vial, admixing the same and then returning the fluid to a cartridge, the transfer assembly having a vial gripper located at a first end and a cartridge holder at the second end of an elongated outer housing, a fluid passageway extending between the vial gripper and the cartridge holder with piercing elements being located at respective ends of the fluid passageway. In a preferred embodiment, an adaptor is mounted on the end of the outer housing where the cartridge holder is situated. The adaptor may move from a retracted to an extended position wherein it will surround the needle.
US08100144B2 Mounting arrangement for a rotary valve
A mounting arrangement for mounting at least one rotary valve to a drive shaft is provided, where the drive shaft includes at least one mounting hole at a predetermined position therein. The mounting arrangement may include at least one rotary valve having a curved portion and two side portions. The arrangement may also include a central passage passing through the two side portions that is shaped to allow the drive shaft to extend therethrough. The rotary valve may also include a mounting opening, opening towards the central passage at a predetermined position. The arrangement may include a mounting element extending through the mounting opening of the rotary valve into the mounting hole in the drive shaft, to mount the rotary valve to the drive shaft at a predetermined position.
US08100142B2 Bleed-type electromagnetic valve
A bleed solenoid valve that includes a valve main body that is hollow and formed with an input port, an output port, and a discharge port; a flow-changing part that is accommodated inside the valve main body and formed with a first flow path and a second flow path, a valve shaft that is accommodated inside the flow-changing part; and a solenoid part that moves the valve shaft in the axial direction.
US08100134B2 Ventilated smoking article
A cigarette includes a rod comprising a wrapped tobacco column that is joined to an axially aligned filter by a band of air impermeable tipping paper. The filter end of the rod is inserted into a mouthpiece having an air impermeable outer surface that comprises a ventilation tube and a second filter, separated by a mixing chamber. The ventilation tube has an air permeable annular wall that defines a central axial passage through which the rod extends. In use, the end surface of the annular wall at the rod end of the ventilation tube, which extends radially outward around the rod, acts as a ventilation surface through which air is drawn into the mixing chamber, where it mixes with mainstream smoke from the burning tobacco rod. The air/smoke mixture is drawn through the second filter into the consumer's mouth.
US08100130B2 Medical drape
A medical drape is disclosed. The drape comprises a main portion having a front side, a back side, a first edge, a second edge, a top, and a bottom. The first and second edges are positioned opposite one another. The top and the bottom are positioned opposite one other. The drape further comprises a first and a second fenestration extending completely through the main portion and spaced generally equidistant from a vertical axis. The vertical axis is generally parallel to the first and second edges. The drape further comprises a third and a fourth fenestration extending completely through the main portion and are spaced generally equidistant from the vertical axis. The first and second fenestrations are closer to the top than the third and fourth fenestrations.
US08100129B2 Methods and devices for occluding an ovarian pathway
Methods and devices of sterilization by which the ovarian pathway is occluded by a plug, wherein placement of the plug may be visually confirmed. Other methods and devices are also described.
US08100123B2 Respiratory system for inducing therapeutic hypothermia
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for controlling a patient's body temperature and in particular for inducing therapeutic hypothermia. Various embodiments of the system are described. The system includes: a source of breathing gas, which may be in the form of a compressed breathing gas mixture; a heat exchanger or other heating and/or cooling device; and a breathing interface, such as a breathing mask or tracheal tube. Optionally, the system may include additional features, such as a mechanical respirator, a nebulizer for introducing medication into the breathing gas, a body temperature probe and a feedback controller. The system can use air or a specialized breathing gas mixture, such as He/O2 or SF6/O2 to increase the heat transfer rate. In addition, the system may include an ice particle generator for introducing fine ice particles into the flow of breathing gas to further increase the heat transfer rate.
US08100115B2 Method for operating a spark ignition engine
In a method for operating a spark ignition engine, wherein the inlet valves of the spark ignition engine are closed very early or very late, and a combustion air flow which is supplied to the spark ignition engine is compressed by means of a charger, and, under full load operation, the inlet valves are closed either early or late to avoid knocking of the engine, a partial flow of re-circulated exhaust gas is supplied to the combustion air flow supplied to the engine also during full load engine operation.
US08100103B2 Reciprocating piston cylinder head cover having an integrated fluid exchange rotary disc valve
A cylinder head cover for a reciprocating compressor cylinder. The cover includes a first plate having a first and second channel in a surface of the first plate. The first and second channels merge within the plate at a first opening through the bottom surface of the first plate. A second plate has a pair of bores each aligned with one of the first and second channels in the first plate. A fourth plate is fastened over the second plate forming a cavity between the second and fourth plates. The fourth plate has a pair of spaced bores aligned with the bores through the second plate. A rotating third plate is disposed between the second and fourth plates. This third plate has a pair of spaced bores for sequentially aligning with one of the pair of bores through the second plate.
US08100102B2 Cylinder head for an internal combustion engine
A cylinder head for an internal combustion engine is provided. The cylinder head includes a valve chamber shaped to accommodate at least two rotary valves therein. The cylinder head also includes at least two first passages extending between the valve chamber and an underside of the cylinder head. The cylinder head further includes a flow passage for providing fluid communication between the valve chamber and the exterior of the cylinder head.
US08100094B2 Radial impulse engine, pump, and compressor systems, and associated methods of operation
Radial impulse engine, pump, and compressor systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment of the invention, a radial impulse engine includes first and second movable V-members operably disposed between first and second end wall portions. The first V-member can have a first wall portion with a first distal edge portion and a second wall portion with a first cylindrical surface. The second V-member can have a third wall portion with a second distal edge portion and a fourth wall portion with a second cylindrical surface. In this embodiment, the first distal edge portion of the first wall portion can be configured to slide across the second cylindrical surface of the fourth wall portion, and the second distal edge portion of the third wall portion can be configured to slide across the first cylindrical surface of the second wall portion, when the first V-member pivots about a first pivot axis and the second V-member pivots about a second pivot axis.
US08100091B2 Livestock moving system and method
A system and method for moving livestock includes a sequence of interconnected semicircular enclosures in which the periphery of each enclosure extends generally to the center of the next enclosure. At the center of each enclosure is a turret unit including a support frame, a turret frame and a panel. The panel extends generally to the edge of the enclosure. The turret frame and panel are capable of two modes of movement: a sweeping mode and a shuttle mode. In the sweeping mode, the turret frame rotates the extended panel as the panel sweeps around the semicircular enclosure. In the shuttle mode the panel is translated across the enclosure from one side of the turret frame to the other side of the turret frame. Panels can thus be alternately swept around their respective enclosures and shuttled across their respective enclosures to present translating enclosed areas for livestock as the livestock progress through a series of interconnected semicircular enclosures.
US08100087B2 Aquarium light fixture with hinge
Various embodiments of the present invention provide a lighting apparatus that may be utilized with aquariums having features and functionality enabling a person to easily access the opening of an aquarium for various purposes, such as cleaning and maintenance. According to one embodiment of the invention, the lighting apparatus comprises two or more panels; one or more joints that join at least two adjacent panels together; and one or more light elements disposed on the aquarium lighting apparatus such that at least one lighting element illuminates a side common to all of the panels. For some embodiments, features of the present invention allow the lighting apparatus to illuminate the aquarium, while limiting the evaporation of water from the aquarium.
US08100085B2 Liquid bird feeder
A liquid hummingbird feeder is provided with a liquid container having a sealable top opening and a bottom opening, a liquid tray adapted to immerse the bottom opening in liquid, and a valve mechanism adapted to close the bottom opening to enable the liquid container to be filled through the sealable top opening.
US08100083B2 Process and apparatus for depositing a ceramic coating
A process and apparatus for depositing a ceramic coating, such as a thermal barrier coating (TBC) for a gas turbine engine component. The process deposits a coating whose composition includes multiple oxide compounds and a carbon-based constituent, e.g., elemental carbon, carbides, and carbon-based gases. The process uses at least one evaporation source to provide multiple different oxide compounds and at least one carbide compound comprising carbon and an element. The evaporation source is evaporated to produce a vapor cloud that contacts and condenses on the component surface to form the ceramic coating, and particularly so that the coating comprises the oxide compounds, an oxide of the element of the carbide compound, and the carbide compound and/or a carbon-containing gas. The process is carried out with an apparatus comprising a coating chamber in which the evaporation source is present, and a device for evaporating the evaporation source.
US08100081B1 Edge removal of films using externally generated plasma species
The present invention provides methods and apparatuses for removing unwanted film from the edge area of substrate using remotely-generated plasmas. Activated plasma species are directed to the edge of the substrate to contact and remove the unwanted film, while intrusion of the activated species to areas above the active circuit region (where the film is desired) is suppressed. In certain embodiments, intrusion of the activated species is suppressed by the use of a purge gas and/or the use of materials that promote recombination of plasma species. In particular embodiments, atomic oxygen is used to remove ashable films from the edge of semiconductor wafers.
US08100080B2 Microwidth-adjustable slot nozzle
Apparatus for applying fluids such as adhesive, in particular hot melt adhesive, to a substrate. The apparatus includes a main body which can be connected to a fluid source, an application valve for selectively interrupting or enabling a flow of fluid, and a nozzle arrangement arranged on the main body for applying the fluid. The nozzle includes a distributor passage communicating with the fluid source, and the nozzle arrangement has at least one outlet opening for delivery of the fluid, which communicates with the distributor passage, and a closure body arranged movably in the distributor passage for varying the length, which can be acted upon with fluid, of the distributor passage. The distributor passage is provided in a one-piece portion of the nozzle arrangement.
US08100077B2 Mooring system
A mooring system and/or a rigid harness (2) for a floating aquatic structure (1) includes first and second ends, and the first end is pivotably attachable to the structure (1) such that in use the harness (2) may pivot about a single pivot axis (23) through a range of angles relative to, and including, the vertical. The harness (2) further includes one or more mechanical and/or umbilical connections (28,30,32) adjacent the second end thereof.
US08100065B2 Flue dust discharging method and system
A dust discharging system for a blast furnace includes a dust collector for collecting flue dust from flue gas produced from the blast furnace, a first discharge conduit connected to the dust collector, a separator connected to the first discharge conduit for separating residual flue gas present in the flue dust, and an airtight tank disposed below the first discharge conduit to receive the flue dust in a dry state separated from the residual flue gas.
US08100062B1 Expandable table
An expandable table that is utilized as a kitchen table, with the table having several leafs that extend outward from underneath the primary surface of the table and serve to greatly increase the surface area of the table. Ideally, the table has a square or rectangular shape, allowing the mounting of four separate leafs that can be pulled out of each side of the table. Each leaf can be pulled out almost its full length and then be supported by an attached, hinged leg that provides extra support to the leaf after it has been pulled out from underneath the primary surface of the kitchen table.
US08100054B2 Clamping device, system and method for clamping flexible plates onto an imaging cylinder
An imaging cylinder includes a clamping device embodiment with a pair of independent adjacent clamping elements, and a method embodiment includes placing end edges of a flexible plate between each of the clamping elements of the clamping device and a surface approximately flush with the outer surface of the cylinder. One or more biasing devices, e.g., springs are used to impart a force onto the placed plate towards the surface approximately flush with outer surface of the cylinder. For each independent clamping element, a crank and lever mechanism or other means to translate rotative motion to approximately rectilinear motion is used to open a space between the clamping element and the outer surface when a rotative force is manually applied to provide for mounting and unmounting an end of a plate.
US08100046B2 Procedure for the loading of a working cylinder, control module for it, working cylinder and utilization of the same
The invention demonstrates how energy saving working cylinders are loaded with fluid under pressure in order, for example, to power devices for tensioning (toggle joint tensioning apparatus), and/or compressing and/or jointing and/or stamping and/or embossing and/or punching and/or welding, if necessary, under the interposition of gearing parts such as guides, parallelogram gears, toggle joint articulations or the like, with the fluid supply being controlled in such a way during the no-load stroke (idle stroke) of the piston (4) that only the forces of inertia and/or weight and/or the forces of friction of moveable parts are overcome and pressure is not applied from the fluid until the power stroke of the piston (4).
US08100044B1 Integrated laser range finder and sighting assembly and method therefor
An integrated laser range finder and sighting assembly includes a range finder for determining a distance to a target and an onboard ballistics computer for calculating a trajectory and automatically rotating a pointing laser to the proper angle for aligning with a target for firing the weapon.
US08100041B2 Miter saw having battery unit
A miter saw including a base, a turntable, a support section extending from the turntable, and a circular saw unit supported to the support section. A rotation amount detection unit detects rotation amount of the turntable relative to the base. The turntable has a tilt support, and the support section has a tilting section supporting the circular saw unit and supported to the tilt support. A tilting amount detection unit detects tilting amount of the tilting section relative to the tilt support. The turntable has a microcomputer computing a rotation angle of the turntable and tilting angle of the circular saw unit, and a RAM storing the detected rotation amount and the tilting amount installed therein. A battery unit is provided in the turntable for supplying electrical power to electronic components including the rotation amount detection unit, the tilting amount detection unit, and the microcomputer.
US08100031B2 Multi-linked device having a reinforcing member
A steerable multi-linked device may include a first multi-linked mechanism and a second multi-linked mechanism. At least one of the first multi-linked mechanism and the second multi-linked mechanism may include a first link, a plurality of intermediate links, a second link movably coupled to a second one of the intermediate links and a reinforcing member. A first one of the intermediate links may be movably coupled to the first link, and the reinforcing member may extend from a first end of a third one of the intermediate links toward a second end of the third one of the intermediate links.
US08100023B2 Rotary positive displacement flowmeter
A rotary positive displacement flowmeter of the type utilizing two displacement rotors and a blocking rotor with the blocking rotor having a single recess and the displacement rotor cylinders being of substantially similar size as the blocking rotor, resulting in a uniform flowpath through the flowmeter with alignment of the rotor axes in a 180 degree plane.
US08100014B2 Ultrasonic flaw detection apparatus and ultrasonic flaw detection program
A plurality of ultrasonic flaw detection methods can be switched and executed by a simple operation. An ultrasonic flaw detection apparatus includes a switching circuit 3 for permitting an angle probe 1 and a normal probe 2 to be arbitrarily switched to a transmission unit T and a reception unit R of a flaw detector. The switching circuit 3 can select an angle flaw detection mode for transmitting and receiving an ultrasonic beam only by the angle probe, an SPOD mode for transmitting the ultrasonic beam by the angle probe and receiving a diffracted wave by the normal probe and a flaw detection mode executed by a combination of angle flaw detection mode.
US08100007B2 Method and apparatus for detecting contact of a pipetting needle with a liquid in a vessel
A method and level sensor apparatus for detecting contact of a pipetting needle with at least a liquid contained in a vessel are disclosed. The apparatus provides a pipetting needle made of a material suitable for transmitting ultrasonic waves, a needle holder for holding the needle, a electromechanical transducer for generating ultrasonic pulses to be transmitted towards the needle, for receiving echo pulses reflected at the tip of the needle, and for generating an electrical output signal representative of the echo pulses, and electronic circuit means for generating and applying a driving signal to the transducer, which generates corresponding pulses which are transmitted to the needle towards the tip thereof, and for monitoring and evaluating the output signal to detect the position of the needle at which the tip of the needle contacts the liquid and for providing a resulting signal representative of the result of said evaluation.
US08100006B2 Liquid level measurement device and installation incorporating the same
A liquid level measurement device comprises a generally seamless pipe for insertion into an installation in which liquid level is to be monitored and a non-contact sensor assembly disposed within the pipe at a location spaced above the liquid. The sensor assembly senses the level of the liquid and generates output representative of the liquid level.
US08100003B1 Transverse motion measurement in gun barrel
A device is provided for recording transverse acceleration of a projectile longitudinally traveling along a barrel. Within the projectile, the device includes a base, a cantilever beam, a stylus and a medium. The beam longitudinally extends at a first end from the base. The stylus connects to a second end of the beam, being longitudinally opposite from the first end. The medium is rigidly fixed relative to the base and indicates transverse deflection extent of the second end onto the medium. The transverse deflection extent can be vertically perpendicular to the beam, and the stylus can permit deflection that is horizontally perpendicular to the beam. A method is provided for recording transverse acceleration of a projectile longitudinally traveling along a barrel that includes providing a base within the projectile, suspending a cantilever beam longitudinally within the projectile from the base from a first end of the beam, fixing a medium relative to the base, and connecting a stylus to a second end of said beam, the second end being opposite from the first end, the stylus indicating transverse deflection extent of the second end onto the medium.
US08100001B2 Measuring construction and method for measuring tyre data
Measuring construction for measuring use conditions of a tire, configured to be mounted to a support arrangement and provided with a tilting arrangement for tilting and/or adjusting a force on a tire, wherein the tilting arrangement is provided with a measuring instrument that is connected to the tilting arrangement, at least configured and measure forces and/or moments on a tire, a wheel axle supported by the measuring instrument, and at least one actuator for driving the tilting arrangement, wherein the tilting arrangement comprises a foldable construction connected to the at least one actuator.
US08100000B1 Device and method for detecting vehicle engine pulse generator plate tooth defects
A device and its method of use for in situ detection of bent and/or broken teeth on a vehicle engine pulse generator plate. The device includes a pair of detection sensors adapted to detect pulse generator plate teeth during rotation of a pulse generator plate, and a controller in communication with the sensors. The sensors are arranged such that one sensor leads the other with respect to the detection of teeth on a rotating pulse generator plate. Rotation of a pulse generator plate in the presence of the sensors will cause the sensors to produce an output signal each time a tooth passes by. The signals from the sensors form associated pulse trains that are evaluated by a microprocessor device and associated program of the controller to determine if the pulse generator plate has any bent and/or broken teeth.
US08099991B2 Device and method for molding bistable magnetic alloy wire
Taught herein is a method for molding a bistable magnetic alloy wire, comprising: processing an alloy wire by heat treatment; and processing the alloy wire by cold treatment of mechanical twisting, the mechanical twisting being a repeated twisting in a continuous state. Also taught herein is a device for molding a bistable magnetic alloy wire.
US08099987B2 Locking device for functions which can be carried out in particular on vehicles
A locking device contains a locking cylinder with a freewheeling sleeve (11), cylinder core and tumblers (27). The cylinder core can be rotated by a matching key because the tumblers (27) which lock the cylinder core release the freewheeling sleeve (11) when the key is removed. The freewheeling sleeve (11) is mounted rotationally in a housing (18) and is fixed in a defined rotational position by a latching element in the housing (18), which latching element is loaded (34) radially by a spring element. Upon forcible rotations of the cylinder core, which characterize an overloading situation, the latching element releases the freewheeling sleeve (11). An output element which brings about the desired functions in the vehicle is also located in the housing, as is, furthermore, a coupling element which is rotationally fixed to the output element, is under a radial resetting force and can be displaced radially. In the normal situation, the coupling element is coupled to the cylinder core, but is decoupled in the overloading situation. For a reasonably priced, space-saving design, it is proposed to form the spring element and the latching element as a premanufactured, compact constructional unit (31, 32). The constructional unit (31, 32) is arranged in a chamber (25) of the housing (18) and forms an insert which is handled as one during installation and removal.
US08099972B2 Device for heating, cooling and producing domestic hot water using a heat pump and low-temperature heat store
A heating device includes a low-temperature heat store thermally coupled to a heat pump. The heat store is a buried pocket containing a permeable material and water. A high heat exchange capacity is thus achieved by exploiting both the high specific heat of the water and the high latent heat of liquefaction of the water contained in the heat store.
US08099970B2 Refrigerator door opening device and control method thereof
A refrigerator including a door opening device to easily open a door and a control method thereof are disclosed. The device opens doors using rotation of a driving motor, returns to an initial state without rotating the driving motor in reverse after opening doors, and opens doors using only forward and reverse rotation of driving motor when doors are sequentially opened. Moreover, position of rotation cam is detected at initial state when power is supplied or during operation to determine whether the device is malfunctioning. In the early time when position of the rotation cam is detected, the driving motor is rotated by force so that malfunction of driving motor due to chattering is prevented. Frequency of opening doors by a door opening signal is determined and the device is driven in a mode so that damage is prevented due to excessive operation.
US08099962B2 Mid turbine frame system and radial locator for radially centering a bearing for gas turbine engine
A gas turbine engine has a casing component, such as a mid turbine frame system, which includes an outer case surrounding a spoke or strut casing. Load transfer spokes of the spoke casing are detachably connected to the outer case and radially extend between the outer case and an inner case of the spoke casing. A bearing housing is supported by the inner case of the spoke casing. An arrangement for radially centring the bearing within the outer case is provided, the arrangement including at least three radial locators mounted to the outer case.
US08099959B2 Heat recovery equipment
Heat recovery equipment recovers heat from flue gas. The heat recovery equipment includes a power generation plant that drives a steam turbine by superheated steam produced in a boiler, and an exhaust-gas treatment line that treats flue gas output from the boiler. The exhaust-gas treatment line includes a first air preheater, a heat extractor unit, and a dry electrostatic precipitator. The power generation plant includes a condensed water line. The condensed water line includes a condenser, a condensed water heater, and a low-pressure feedwater heater. The condensed water heater heats water condensed by the condenser with the heat recovered by the heat extractor unit.
US08099951B2 Dual bed catalyst system for NOx reduction in lean-burn engine exhaust
A method for reducing nitrogen oxides including NO and NO2 in an exhaust stream also including oxygen, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons at a temperature above about 150° C. includes oxidizing NO in the exhaust stream to NO2, adding diesel fuel hydrocarbons and their oxygenates to the exhaust stream for the reduction of nitrogen oxides, and flowing the exhaust stream through a dual bed catalyst system including a first bed and a second bed, wherein the first bed is a single layer catalyst bed and the second bed is a double layer catalyst bed including a first layer and a second layer to reduce the nitrogen oxides to N2.
US08099944B2 Hybrid propulsive engine including at least one independently rotatable propeller/fan
A hybrid propulsive technique includes providing at least some first thrust associated with a flow of a working fluid through at least a portion of an at least one axial flow jet engine. The hybrid propulsive technique comprises extracting energy from the working fluid that is at least partially converted into electrical power, and converting at least a portion of the electrical power to torque. The hybrid propulsive technique further comprises rotating an at least one independently rotatable propeller/fan of at least one rotatable propeller/fan assembly at least partially responsive to the converting the at least a portion of the electrical power to torque, wherein the rotating of the at least one independently rotatable propeller/fan of the at least one rotatable propeller/fan assembly is arranged to produce at least some second thrust.
US08099942B2 Methods and systems for output variance and facilitation of maintenance of multiple gas turbine plants
A method of operating a power generation system is provided. The system includes a first gas turbine engine that uses at least one of a primary fuel and a secondary fuel, and at least one second gas turbine engine that operates using at least one of a primary and secondary fuel. The method includes supplying primary fuel to at least one of the first and second engines from a common fuel source coupled to the first and second engines, and selectively operating the first engine between a first operational position and a second operational position. The first engine using only secondary fuel in the first operational position and operates using only primary fuel in the second operational position. The method includes supplying the second engine with primary fuel from the common fuel source without flaring the primary fuel.
US08099940B2 Low cross-talk gas turbine fuel injector
A pilot assembly for a fuel injector of a gas turbine engine may include a longitudinal passageway having an outlet end. A mass flow in the longitudinal passageway may generally flow towards the outlet end during operation of the engine. The pilot assembly may also include a liquid fuel nozzle that is positioned to direct a mixture of liquid fuel and air near the outlet end, and a compressed air inlet that is configured to direct air compressed by a compressor of the engine to a compressor discharge pressure into the longitudinal passageway without a substantial loss of pressure. The longitudinal passageway may also include a flow restriction section. The flow restriction section may be a narrowed section of the longitudinal passageway, in which an upstream side of the flow restriction section may have compressed air at substantially the compressor discharge pressure and a downstream side may have air at a lower pressure and a higher velocity. The pilot assembly may further include a nozzle for injecting one of assist air or gaseous fuel into the longitudinal passageway. The nozzle may be positioned at the flow restriction section or on an upstream side of the flow restriction section to reduce cross-talk.
US08099932B2 Mandrel for disposing a stretchable wrapper around an object
A mandrel (2) comprising a body portion (4) having an outer surface for receiving a stretchable closed wrapper (20), the mandrel having an end (6) adapted for mounting on a self supporting object (18) to be wrapped such that the wrapper can be slid over the mandrel and delivered therefrom onto the outer surface (22) of the object, in which the mandrel includes a portion which engages with the object to allow the mandrel to seat on an end of the object.
US08099930B2 Device and method for positioning of nozzles
An inventive device or a method, respectively, for a chamber machine for positioning at least a nozzle (11) and/or a measuring device relative with respect to a bag (9) having a bag mouth should solve the object to simplify or to accelerate, respectively, gassing the bags with protective gas or the injection of liquids or solids, respectively. The inventive device comprises a movable holding device (15) at which the nozzle (11) and/or the measuring device is fixable and which is at least movable between a rest position and an operation position. The holding device (15) positions the nozzle (11) and/or the measuring device in its rest position outside the bag mouth and positions the same in its operation position so that it projects into the bag mouth.
US08099929B2 Product feeding apparatus
Automatic feeding machines are commonly used for filling blister packs with items of product such as pharmaceutical dosage forms. These machines are usually designed for the handling of a specific shape and sized product item. Handling of different shaped items requires expensive re-tooling of all the product item contact components. The invention allows a single feeding machine to be quickly configured for use to handling a wide variety of item sizes/shapes. A machine (21) has a tray (36) defining a series of tapered channels (40) and a container (22) slideably mounted above the tray. A wall of the container and the channels together define apertures into each channel through which items of product pass out of the container. Sliding movement of the container across the planar tray surface (38), along and over the channels, allows the size of the apertures to be adjusted depending upon the size of the item of product to be handled, using the same components.
US08099924B2 Panel, in particular floor panel
A panel, in particular a floor panel, includes a core of a wood material or wood material/plastic mixture. The panel includes a top side and an underside. The panel has a profile corresponding to one another on at least two side edges (I, II) lying opposite one another, such that two identically embodied panels can be joined and locked to one another through an essentially vertical joining movement in the horizontal and vertical direction. The locking in the horizontal direction can be effected by a hook connection with an upper locking section having a hook element and a lower locking section having a hook element. The locking in the vertical direction can be effected by at least one spring element that can be moved in the horizontal direction. During the joining movement the at least one spring element snaps in behind a locking edge extending essentially in the horizontal direction. The panel can be embodied as a thin panel with a high strength of the connection, when the at least one spring element is embodied from the core in one piece and the at least one spring element is embodied on the lower locking section.
US08099917B2 Metal “logs” buildings with rigidifying interior and exterior sheathing
A U-shaped rigidifying member cooperates with parallel metal “logs” each usually extending horizontally. A curved portion of the U wraps halfway around a first log, and first and second legs respectively descend in parallel from opposite sides of the curved portion. The legs are substantially tangent to a second log. This structure is repeated with the U-shaped members overlapping and inverted or otherwise oriented to shed rain, and forms all or part of a wall or sloping roof of a building. The U-shaped members are secured to each other and to the logs to form a continuous structural ensemble that is aesthetically pleasing, even without additional interior and exterior sheathing. It is moreover strong and highly resistant to an external force having a horizontal component parallel to the plane of the wall or roof. The rigidifying members can alternatively be J-shaped.
US08099910B1 Roof hatch grab bars
A roof hatch grab bar assembly for adding comfort to a person ascending or descending a roof hatch and its complementary through the roof ladder. The roof hatch grab bar assembly includes grab bar handrails and a cross support assembly with side supports on either side that include telescoping arms. The design is adjustable, easily installed and will not crush the insulation surrounding a roof hatch that is conventionally adhered to the hatch. Installation may be done while minimizing the potential for leaks in the roof.
US08099893B2 Method for permanent disturbance/destruction of electronics, in particular of a blast case or the like
In a first step, it is proposed that tunable transmitters and detectors (receivers) be included in a detection system and that a narrowband, preferably variable frequency signal be used in order to determine the frequencies for optimum injection into the electronics of a target. When the detection system identifies these frequencies, destruction can be initiated in the second step of the invention for a transmitter or receiver which is communicating with the target. For this purpose, once the optimum frequencies have been determined, a high-power signal is transmitted into the local area of the target at the specific/determined frequency. The evaluation unit, which is integrated in the detection system, controls the transmission frequencies, evaluates the harmonic signals, selects the optimum frequencies for an attack, and controls and checks the attack process.
US08099890B2 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.
US08099888B2 Wristband label assembly with outboard cinch slot
A business form includes in a first embodiment a wristband with a laminate backing including a tab portion at the opposite end of a free end, with the tab portion having a cinch slot. Several self adhering labels are provided inboard of the tab and may be individually separated. The labels and the wristband may each be imprinted with identifying indicia. A second embodiment includes a page sized form with one or more self laminating wristbands with each wristband comprised of a printable face stock region die cut into the face stock and a strap portion, a laminating portion, and a cinch die cut into the laminate layer. The laminating portion includes two halves which fold to enclose the face stock, with the strap portion extending from one of the halves. The cinch comprises two slots located either outboard of or on both sides of the face stock.
US08099880B2 Athletic shoe with cushion structures
A footwear lower is presented which provides cushion support and lateral stability in a lightweight construction. The lower may include a primary midsole, cushion elements, a rear lower midsole, a directional cradle, and an outsole. The cushions may be located in the between the directional cradle and the rear lower midsole. Various embodiments of cushions are presented and may be consistent with specific types of shoes such as running trainers, trail shoes, general fitness footwear, or basketball shoes. The lower may be consistent with approaches to remediate a wearer's pronation or supination.
US08099878B2 Electrical box template
An electrical box template, an electrical box template extension device and a method for utilizing the electrical box template and an electrical box template extension device is provided and includes a template body having a template perimeter, a template back and a template front, wherein the template front includes, a front surface protruding from the template front and located adjacent at least a portion of the template perimeter, a centering structure located in a center portion of the template body and defining a centering orifice and at least one interior support located between said centering structure and the protruding front surface.
US08099876B1 Azimuth determination system and method therefor
An azimuth determination system has a platform. A plurality of gimbals is attached to the platform to allow the platform to rotate about multiple axes. A pair of gryos is attached to the platform. A leveling device is attached to the platform to indicate when the platform is at a desired position. A control device attached to the plurality of gimbals to move the platform to the desired position indicated by the leveling device. An electronics system is to provide power to the azimuth determination system and to determine azimuth by positioning the gyros in a first position with an input axis of the gyros in the horizontal plane and orthogonal to the Earth Rate vector to calculate a first output and rotating the gyros 180° about the vertical to a second position to calculate a second output, the platform is then inverted and an additional set of two readings is taken. The four outputs are combined to produce the azimuth value and a gyro induced bias error. The azimuth value of the autocollimator line of sight is transferred to the laboratory reference mirror.
US08099874B2 Sighting system
A sighting system, having front and rear sights, for a shooting device, such as an archery bow, cross bow or a firearm. The front sight includes at least one sighting element. The rear sight includes a rear sight frame that has a lens located therein. At least one aperture is formed in the lens and defines an opening extending therethrough such that the aperture may be aligned with the sighting element of the front sight during aiming of the shooting device.
US08099872B2 Guide device for a saw blade that executes lifting motions
The invention relates to a guide device (1) for a saw blade (2), in particular for an electric tool, which is operated in reciprocating motion (H) and which comprises a clamping device (4) engaging in the clamping end (3) of the saw blade (2), and a pendulum guide device (5) attached to the back of the saw blade and located at an axial distance (a) from the clamping device (4). According to the invention, the pendulum guide device (5) features at least two guide elements (6) which are arranged at an axial distance from each other. The invention further relates to an electric tool which features said guide device (1). Moreover, the invention relates to an electric tool with said guide device (1), in particular a jigsaw (23).
US08099870B1 Lock mechanism for spring assisted folding knife
The folding knife of the present invention includes a handle having first and second handle members that are maintained in spaced, parallel relation to one another by spacing elements that define a groove therebetween. The blade is pivotally attached to the handle at its tang portion and is movable into and out of the groove between its fully open and fully closed positions. A coil spring, or equivalent, may be interconnected between the tang and handle to provide an assisted opening mechanism. A blade lock includes a user actuated button that passes through an elongated slot formed through one of the handle members and through a circular opening formed through a bias plate that is positioned within the handle, and a plunger element that is spring biased in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the blade.
US08099865B2 Method for manufacturing a circuit board having an embedded component therein
A method for manufacturing a circuit board includes the following steps. First, a core layer is provided, wherein the core layer includes a first dielectric layer, and first and second metallic layers. A through hole is formed in the core layer. The core layer is disposed on a supporting plate, and an embedded component is disposed in the through hole, wherein the second metallic layer contacts the supporting plate, and the embedded component has at least one electrode contacting the supporting plate. The embedded component is mounted in the through hole. The supporting plate is removed. The first and second metallic layers are removed, and the thickness of the electrode of the embedded component is decreased. Third and fourth metallic layers are formed respectively, wherein the fourth metallic layer is electrically connected to the electrode of the embedded component. Finally, the third and fourth metallic layers are patterned so as to respectively form first and second patterned circuit layers.
US08099860B2 Electronic component mounting apparatus
The invention prevents reduction of a pickup rate even when a storage tape in use and a new storage tape are connected to each other with a connection tape. A component recognition camera takes an image of an electronic component held by a suction nozzle, and a recognition processing device performs recognition processing. When a positional shifting amount calculated by CPU based on the recognition processing result is more than α, a board recognition camera takes an image of a storage portion of a storage tape storing a next electronic component to be picked up. When a positional shifting amount of the storage portion calculated based on the recognition processing result is more than β, the CPU enables seam passage processing. Based on the image taking of the storage portion by the board recognition camera and the recognition processing by the recognition processing device which are performed each time the storage tape is fed N times, the CPU controls correction of a pickup position.
US08099849B2 Optimizing fracture toughness of polymeric stent
Disclosed herein is a method of fabricating a stent assembly comprising radially expanding a polymeric tube to an optimal degree of radial expansion; fabricating a stent from the expanded polymeric tube; and crimping the stent onto a catheter assembly, wherein the temperature of the stent during crimping is an optimal crimping temperature, wherein the optimal degree of radial expansion and the optimal crimping temperature correspond to an optimal fracture toughness exhibited by the crimped stent upon its deployment as a function of degree of radial expansion and crimping temperature.
US08099843B2 Device for molding bistable magnetic alloy wire
A device for molding a bistable magnetic alloy wire having a feed reel, a feed roller, a furnace, a positioning roller, a receiving roller, and a receiving reel; a winch for passing the alloy wire through is disposed between the positioning roller and the receiving roller; the winch rotates around its axis; at least three wheels are distributed along the axis of the winch; the alloy wire passes an upper tangent point and a lower tangent point of an outer circle of the wheel; and the upper tangent point and the lower tangent point are disposed on the top and the bottom of the axis of the winch, respectively.
US08099838B2 Fastening belt with rotatable drag hooks
This invention is about the fastening belt with freely rotatable drag hooks, which includes two drag hooks. The said drag hooks have an upper cover and a bottom cover, with the hook fixed in the front of the drag hooks; one elastic rope to link the two drag hooks, which is made from stretchable material. Two rotatable linker and two ends of elastic rope are fixated inside the rotatable linker. The rotatable linker is connected with the rear rotation of the drag hook. The hook and the elastic rope are linked by the rotatable linker and the drag hook is linked with the rotatable linker. Thus, the drag hook can rotate freely in the elastic rope. The rope does not kink when in use, which not only prolongs the life of elastic ropes, but also reinforce the reliability of the connection between the drag link and the elastic rope.
US08099837B2 Low-profile upholstery clip for attaching a bead to a foam substrate
A low-profile clip adapted to secure a listing bead to a foam substrate and is constructed from a material that affords resilience, durability, high resistance to a wide range of temperatures during field use and seat assembly and ease of bead installation with high pull-out strength. The clip includes a base and a pair of legs extending upwardly from the base to a top barb. In this embodiment, the legs each extend upwardly from the base at a first angle of approximately 80 to 85 degrees and therefrom to each of the respective barbs at a second angle, with respect to a plane parallel to the base of approximately 88 to 90 degrees. In this manner the clip exhibits high performance while defining an overall height from tops of the legs to a bottom of the base of approximately ten millimeters or less making the clip particularly desirable for use in modern, thinner foam substrates.
US08099819B2 Toothbrush
A toothbrush head in which the fixed ends of the bristles are embedded in a mass of a polyurethane gel material incorporated in the head. Typical nylon materials as used for toothbrush bristles are found to bind with polyurethane gels so that advantageously holders for the bristles need not be used. A moulding process is also provided for making the toothbrush head.
US08099813B2 Ramp assembly for mobile shelving
The present invention relates to a ramp assembly for a mobile shelving system including at least one longitudinal track body having a central channel and transverse edges, said ramp assembly including a plurality of ramp sections disposed on either side of the track body, whereby each ramp section includes a hooked edge adapted to rotatably engage a transverse edge of the track body, the angle of the ramp section being adjustable by way of rotation of the ramp section to thereby accommodate track bodies of different height.
US08099812B2 Spring element unit for a padding element, particularly a matress
A spring element unit for a padding element, especially a mattress, comprises a plurality of spring elements. The spring element consists of an open-cell polyurethane flexible foam material and comprises at least one recess. Such a spring element unit is used in a padding element, especially a mattress, which comprises a base body for receiving the spring element unit. Such a spring element unit prevents a build-up of heat and humidity between the body and the supporting padding element.
US08099809B2 Mattress
This invention proposes a mattress formed by covering a padding with a covering material, characterized in that the covering material has grip portions fixed to the longitudinal edges near the corners of the mattress, that the ends on one side of multiple fastening belts are fixed to both the longitudinal edges, that stowing portions for stowing the fastening belts are provided, and that fastening members are fixed at the ends on the other side of the fastening belts.
US08099804B2 Thermally insulating blanket constructed of individual floats and system for deploying and retrieving same
A blanket of many floats of like configuration and each incorporating a polygonal parametrical rims housing a plurality of radial spokes configured to, in alternate axial relationship, form cells closed at the respective one ends and opening axially at their respective opposite ends. The system of the present of invention includes plumbing with a series of water jets for generating a current to flow fluid in a controlled fashion from and to a storage tank to selectively deploy and retrieve the floats.
US08099798B2 Pivotal plate suspension system
A pivotal suspension system to support lower-body protective gear which is constructed from pivotally attached plates increasing the wearer's range of motion in hazardous situations.
US08104092B1 Document integrity assurance
In some embodiments, techniques for document integrity may include detecting an initiator associated with a key, detecting the end of an HTTP header, determining that no terminator matching the key has been detected, and rejecting the HTTP header. In some embodiments, techniques for document integrity may include generating a key and associating the key with an initiator insertion point and a terminator insertion point.
US08104089B1 Tracking memory mapping to prevent packers from evading the scanning of dynamically created code
To detect possible malicious code that is unpacked at runtime before it is executed, antivirus software requires that any dynamically created code be scanned before it can be executed by a host computer system. This requirement may be enforced by requiring memory pages to be either executable or writable, but not both. Before changing from writable but not executable to executable but not writable, the page is scanned for malicious code. To prevent packers from evading this scanning, a countermeasure tracks the memory mapping in the host system to enforce consistency in the protection settings for all memory spaces that are mapped to the same physical memory page.
US08104081B2 IP security with seamless roaming and load balancing
Described are a method and system for seamless roaming of a mobile node during a VPN session. A VPN session between the mobile node and a current VPN server in a network is established and synchronized with at least one fail-over VPN server in the network. An address change message is sent to the current VPN server and the fail-over VPN servers upon roaming of the mobile node. A fail-over VPN server responds with a reply message and is registered as a current VPN server for continuation of the VPN session. To load balance, a load query message is sent to the current VPN server and the fail-over VPN servers. Reply messages include server performance characteristics of the VPN servers. The VPN session can be transferred from the current VPN server to a fail-over VPN server in response to the server performance characteristics.
US08104073B2 Exchange of network access control information using tightly-constrained network access control protocols
In general, techniques are described for securely exchanging network access control information. The techniques may be useful in situations where an endpoint device and an access control device perform a tightly-constrained handshake sequence of a network protocol when the endpoint device requests access to a network. The handshake sequence may be constrained in a variety of ways. Due to the constraints of the handshake sequence, the endpoint device and the access control device may be unable to negotiate a set of nonce information during the handshake sequence. For this reason, the access control device uses a previously negotiated set of nonce information and other configuration information associated with the endpoint device as part of a process to determine whether the endpoint device should be allowed to access the protected networks.
US08104072B2 Apparatus and methods for authenticating voice and data devices on the same port
Embodiments of the present invention allow authorization for a particular device or user to have access into a particular network so as to be bound to a specific domain or VLAN (virtual local area network). When authorization is tied to a domain, several devices can be authenticated into a single physical port of a network access device (e.g., access switch) and still only be given access to the one or more domam(s) or VLAN(s) that they are authorized to access based on their individual independent authorization outcomes.
US08104069B2 Establishment of security federations
Secure interactions between administrative domains are modeled. The modeled process specifies role information for each of the administrative domains and interaction between the administrative domains. Role information associated with candidate administrative domains is received, and appropriate administrative domains from the candidate administrative domains are dynamically resolved based on the modeled process and the received role information. Trust realms between the dynamically resolved appropriate administrative domains are automatically derived based on the role information and the interactions from the modeled process. The secure interaction between the dynamically resolved appropriate administrative domains is effected through the automatically derived trust realms.
US08104066B2 User identification and prioritization using Bluetooth
In certain implementations, a method of automatically changing an attribute defining operation of a television system involves determining that a plurality of short range radio frequency (RF) transceiver devices have entered RF range of the television system, the television system having a short range RF transceiver compatible with that of the short range RF transceiver device; binding the short range RF transceiver devices to the television set to establish an identity (ID) for the short range RF transceiver devices; determining a priority of each of the plurality of identified short range RF devices; at the television system, looking up a functional attribute associated with the identity having the highest priority; and setting the television parameter according to an attribute associated with a short range RF device having highest priority. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US08104065B2 System to provide markers to affect rendering and navigation of content on demand
A content on demand system includes logic to deliver at least one audio and/or video stream and to insert markers in the at least one stream, the markers indicating a position in the at least one stream, and logic to receive from a set top box a marker for an audio and/or video stream for which the set top box has paused or suspended viewing, and upon a signal from the set top box to resume streaming of the audio and/or video stream from a position proximate to the marker.
US08104060B2 Information transmitting method and television broadcast receiver
The address information for reading the detailed information of a computer server which provides the detailed information of distribution information displayed on a predetermined display screen together with a single program or plural programs is transmitted with each program information, so as to realize an information transmitting method and a television broadcasting receiving apparatus which easily obtain, if necessary, the detailed information of the distribution information transmitted with each program information without storage of it at a receiving side.
US08104057B2 Method for setting TV environment through user authentication and apparatus thereof
A method and apparatus for setting a TV operation environment for users submitting authorizing passwords. The method of setting a user environment of a television (TV) includes displaying a plurality of icons of Identifications (IDs) for respective users, each of the IDs corresponding to an operation environment for a user. If an ID icon is selected among the displayed icons, a password corresponding to the selected ID icon is authenticated, and if a user is authenticated by the password, a preset operation mode for the user is set.
US08104056B2 Video service blackout events
A method is disclosed that includes receiving a command to blackout a full screen version of content at a component of a multimedia content distribution system. The method includes updating a first entry within a control matrix to reflect that the full screen version of the content is to be blacked out. The method also includes automatically updating a second entry within the control matrix to reflect that a picture-in-picture (PIP) version of the content is to be blacked out.
US08104050B2 Optical disk apparatus having brake pad located near to front end of chassis block
Disclosed is a slim-type high speed rotation optical disk apparatus having a turn table for loading an optical disk thereon. As compared with conventional ones, a brake pad is located near to the front end so that the brake pad comes into tight contact with a side of the tray's front portion when the tray is inserted. This reduces the noise and vibration of the optical disk apparatus.
US08104044B1 System and method for client-side widget communication
Method and system for client-side communication among widgets. In one embodiment, instructions may be processor-executable within a system to implement a web browser and a number of widgets configured to execute within an execution environment provided by the web browser. The web browser may be configured to obtain content from servers external to the system, and members of at least a subset of the widgets may be configured to communicate with one another without interacting with any of the external servers.
US08104039B2 Method for balancing resource sharing and application latency within a data processing system
A technique for managing application workloads in a data processing system includes establishing a reserve resource allocation of a data processing resource for use by a data processing application having a need to utilize the resource, sharing a portion of the resource that is not part of the reserve resource allocation or otherwise utilized by the application with other applications, allowing the application to consume the reserve resource allocation when the application desires to increase its utilization of the resource, and replenishing the reserve resource allocation from the sharable portion of the resource as the application consumes the reserve resource allocation. Advantageously, the reserve resource allocation can be effectively managed so that the data processing resource is available to the application in order to reduce application latency without depriving other applications of the ability to use the resource.
US08104035B2 Program for controlling a virtual computer and computer system for virtulization technology
Provided is the virtual computer system including an emulation module for emulating an operation based on an operation code for executing the operation of hardware of a server system, an exception event handler module for calling the emulation module when an exception event is generated by a CPU, a code management module for managing a promotion code for emulating the operation of the hardware of the server system, a frequency judgment module for judging whether a frequency of the operation of the hardware of the server system is high, and a switching module for determining whether to call the emulation module by the exception event handler module or to call the emulation module by executing the promotion code based on the judged frequency. Accordingly, the virtual computer system can simultaneously achieve high performance and memory saving in an emulation system.
US08104031B2 Storage system, storage unit, and method for hot swapping of firmware
A storage system includes host apparatuses and a storage unit including a plurality of pieces of firmware corresponding to connection paths to the host apparatuses. The host apparatuses each include status information notification means for sending a notification of normal or abnormal status information of connection paths to the storage unit. The storage unit includes receiving means for receiving, from the host apparatuses, status information notifications corresponding to the connection paths, a management table for storing status information obtained from the received status information notifications, request receiving means for receiving update firmware and a request to perform swapping of firmware, and swapping means for, in a case where the request to perform swapping has been received, when it is determined on the basis of the management table that all the connection paths are normal, sequentially performing hot swapping of the pieces of firmware corresponding to the connection paths.
US08104022B2 Automated method for historical analysis of a memory state
An automated method for historical analysis of a memory state includes tracking all memory write accesses by an application under test; recording a directed graph having values in a plurality of memory locations, such values being derived from values previously stored in at least one of, (i) the same memory location, and (ii) another memory location, each memory location being updated by a computer operation occurring at a verifiable time; displaying a portion of the graph that led to the update of a user-specified memory location by the application under test; and traversing backward from any node located on the directed graph via an arc utilized to follow the path of events that led to the content of the memory location represented by that node at the time represented by that node.
US08104017B2 Traceability in a modeling environment
Exemplary embodiments employ a mapping among entities that are related to each other. The entities may include a graphical model, generated code, a generated report, a requirements document and/or an intermediate representation. The mapping may facilitate graphical identifications between parts of one entity that maps to part of another entity. The graphical identification may occur based on a selection of a part in one of the entities.
US08103980B2 Beam dose computing method and writing method and record carrier body and writing apparatus
A beam dose computing method includes specifying a matrix of rows and columns of regions as divided from a surface area of a target object to include first, second and third regions of different sizes, the third regions being less in size than the first and second regions, determining first corrected doses of a charged particle beam for correcting fogging effects in the first regions, determining corrected size values for correcting pattern line width deviations occurring due to loading effects in the second regions, using said corrected size values in said second regions to create a map of base doses of the beam in respective ones of said second regions, using said corrected size values to prepare a map of proximity effect correction coefficients in respective ones of said second regions, using the maps to determine second corrected doses of said beam for correction of proximity effects in said third regions, and using the first and second corrected doses to determine an actual beam dose at each position on the surface of said object.
US08103969B2 Automatic generation of TV history list that stacks TV channels and other objects
A television system presents the user with a list of recently viewed objects as a History list that meets one of a set of History list criteria. The History list is maintained as an ordered stack list with a limited number of entries, the order being an order in which the most recently met rule appears at the top of the list. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US08103966B2 System and method for visualization of time-based events
A method for visual representation of time based events in a target system comprises analyzing content related to occurrence of one or more events in a target system, wherein the content comprises information from which type of an event and time of occurrence of the event may be determined; grouping the events into one or more classes according to one or more predefined attributes; and generating a visual presentation of events occurring in a first time range, wherein the time range is selectable by an independent entity.
US08103951B2 Dynamic schema creation
In a database application executing on a computer system, a database table view is represented by a structured object located on a storage device coupled to the computer system. Responsive to a user pasting content (e.g., spreadsheet data) onto the view of the table, the database application determines if the content to be pasted extends beyond the number of rows (records in a database) or columns (database fields) currently displayed in the table view. If the content extends beyond the number of rows or columns currently displayed, the database application automatically adds one or more records or fields to the structured object on the storage device, and updates the table view to display one or more rows or columns corresponding to the records or fields added to the structured object.
US08103946B2 Secure data strategy for vehicle control systems
A method of providing secure data from vehicle operational variable data that includes a plurality of data message bits includes the steps of dividing the plurality of data message bits into a first group of data message bits and a second group of data message bits, encoding the first group of data message bits using a data map to generate a plurality of encoded data message bits, and generating the data message from the plurality of encoded data message bits and the second group of data message bits.
US08103945B2 Decoding method and decoding apparatus as well as program
A decoding method for sorting received words in the order of the magnitude of the reliability of the received words, performing belief propagation using a parity check matrix diagonalized in the order to update the reliabilities, and repetitively performing the sorting and the belief propagation for the updated values, includes an inner repeated decoding process step of performing belief propagation using a parity check matrix diagonalized in an order of columns corresponding to symbols having comparatively low reliability values of the received words to update the reliability and repetitively performing the belief propagation based on the updated reliability; the inner repeated decoding process step in the second or later cycle of repetition thereof including diagonalization of the parity check matrix for restricted ones of the columns of the parity check matrix.
US08103935B2 Test matrix generating method, encoding method, decoding method, communication apparatus, communication system, encoder and decoder
A regular quasi-cyclic matrix is prepared, a conditional expression for assuring a predetermined minimum loop in a parity check matrix is derived, and a mask matrix for converting a specific cyclic permutation matrix into a zero-matrix based on the conditional expression and a predetermined weight distribution is generated. The specific cyclic permutation matrix is converted into the zero-matrix to generate an irregular masking quasi-cyclic matrix. An irregular parity check matrix in which the masking quasi-cyclic matrix and a matrix in which the cyclic permutation matrices are arranged in a staircase manner are arranged in a predetermined location.
US08103925B2 On-chip logic to support compressed X-masking for BIST
Techniques are provided for X-masking using at least some masking information provided by on-chip logic, in lieu of masking information provided from off of the integrated circuit being tested. The masking information is provided by a masking information source on the integrated circuit being tested, such as, for example, a read-only memory (ROM) circuit, that feeds the masking information to the X-masking logic. With these implementations of the invention, it is possible to perform X-masking independent from any external data, thus enabling X-masking for a logic built-in self-test without requiring an external testing device.
US08103924B2 Test access mechanism for multi-core processor or other integrated circuit
A processor having a pipelined test access mechanism (TAM). The processor includes a plurality of processor cores. Each of the processor cores includes a scan chain including plurality of serially-coupled scan elements. The processor further includes the pipelined TAM, which includes a plurality of pipeline stages each corresponding to one of the plurality of processor cores. The pipelined TAM includes a command channel, a scan data input (SDI) channel, a scan data output (SDO) channel, and a compare channel. Each pipeline stage is operable to convey commands to its corresponding processor core via the command channel, to convey scan input data to its corresponding processor core via the SDI channel, to receive scan output data conveyed from the corresponding processor core to the SDO channel and the compare channel, and convey compare data downstream via the compare channel, wherein the compare data is based on the scan output data.
US08103919B1 Circuit for and method of repairing defective memory
A circuit for repairing defective memory of an integrated circuit is disclosed. The circuit includes blocks of memory; and interconnect elements providing data to each of the blocks of memory, where the interconnect elements enable coupling together the signals for programming the blocks of memory. The circuit also includes a directory of locations for defective memory cells of blocks of memory, where the directory of locations is common to the blocks of memory for storing locations of defective memory cells of the blocks of memory. Methods of repairing defective memory of an integrated circuit are also disclosed.
US08103918B2 Clock control during self-test of multi port memory
A multiport memory is provided with multiple data access paths A, B, each having a respective independent clock signal CLKA, CLKB. During self test operation a duplicate clock enable signal DPCLKTESTEN is used to enable one of these clock signals CLKA, CLKB to be used as a shared clock signal by all data access paths A, B. An external memory adjust signal EMAA. EMAB is used to adjust one of these shared clock signals to form a modified shared clock signal for at least one of the data paths being tested. In this way, worst-case scenarios can be more readily investigated comprising clocks with the same frequency but small differences in phase.
US08103914B2 Test file generation device and test file generation method
A test file generation method for generating a test file for testing a consistency of a work process includes receiving various types of definition information relating to various types of procedures included in the work process, execution sequence of the various types of procedures, a final goal that is a goal that is finally achieved in the work process, sub-goals that are goals that are achieved in the various types of procedures, a constrained condition that is observed when the various types of procedures are executed, an executioner who executes the various types of procedures, and an authority for determining a procedure that can be executed by the executioner, generating a definition file on the basis of the various types of definition information received, and generating a test file that indicates a behavioral model when the work process is executed on the basis of the definition file generated.
US08103909B2 Automatic hardware-based recovery of a compromised computer
In general, techniques are described for hardware-based detection and automatic restoration of a computing device from a compromised state. Moreover, the techniques provide for automatic, hardware-based restoration of selective software components from a trusted repository. The hardware-based detection and automatic restoration techniques may be integrated within a boot sequence of a computing device so as to efficiently and cleanly replace only any infected software component.
US08103906B1 System and method for providing total real-time redundancy for a plurality of client-server systems
An automated and scalable system for total real-time redundancy of a plurality of client-server systems, wherein, data is replicated through a network connection and operationally located on a virtual machine that substitutes for a failed client-server system, wherein the virtual machine is activated and installed on the cloud computing environment. Monitoring applications are installed on both the client-server systems and the cloud computing environment. System components are identified, a network connection is initiated, a heartbeat is established, data replication is automated, system failure is detected, failover is initiated, and subsequent client-server restoration is automated.
US08103891B2 Efficient low power retrieval techniques of media data from non-volatile memory
Power consumption may be reduced in a media device including a first processor coupled to the non-volatile memory, either directly or indirectly, allowing the first processor to generate a pointer structure. The first processor may also be coupled, either directly or indirectly to a memory space, allowing the first processor to write the pointer structure in the memory space. The media device includes a second processor, such as a DSP/SHW or peripheral processor, and may be also be coupled, either directly or indirectly to the memory space, allowing the second processor to retrieve a block of media data from the non-volatile memory. Retrieval of the block of media data may be read directly from the non-volatile memory, or in some cases, the media data being retrieved may be parsed. The media data may be an audio file data, video file data, or both.
US08103890B2 Energy saving method and electronic device with optical disc reproduction apparatus
An electronic device for selectively reproducing information. The electronic device includes a display, a power supply for supplying power, a switch, and a processor. The switch is connected to the display and the power supply. The processor is connected to the switch. When the processor identifies that the selected information is audio type, the processor turns off the switch to disconnect an electrical connection between the power supply and the display. A power saving method for reducing the energy consumption of the electronic device is also provided.
US08103889B2 Reducing power consumption of a microprocessor
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for reducing the power consumption of a microprocessor. One or more signal transitions in an instruction set of a microprocessor are profiled. A probability of occurrence is assigned to each instruction in the instruction set. A binary operation code is assigned to each instruction, based on the probability of occurrence for the instruction. The instructions having the highest probability of occurrence are assigned operation codes that require fewer signal transitions. As a result, the power consumption of the microprocessor is reduced.
US08103878B2 Control device, update method and control software
To update the program, the file is updated by verifying according to a digital signature attached to the file having the program converted whether the file is not dishonestly falsified. To verify the digital signature, a time for verifying the signature can be shortened by verifying not the entire file but only a particularly important part, and an area for temporarily storing the file can be made small. Thus, the control can be performed to update only when the file is valid.